This Minnesota legislative bill, HF No. 171, is focused on regulating the use of American Indian mascots by public schools. Essentially, starting September 1, 2026, public schools in Minnesota will not be allowed to use any names, symbols, or images that depict American Indian tribes, individuals, customs, or traditions as their mascots, nicknames, logos, letterheads, or team names unless they receive a specific exemption.

There is an exception to this rule for public schools located within the reservation of a federally recognized Tribal Nation in Minnesota where at least 95% of the students are American Indian, who can continue using such mascots.

School districts that currently use American Indian mascots and do not receive an exemption must report their progress in removing these mascots by specific deadlines. The bill also outlines the need for districts to plan and fund the removal and replacement of these mascots from all school-related areas and materials.

To aid schools in this transition, the bill provides a mechanism for schools to apply for state funding to cover expenses related to replacing these mascots. The Commissioner of Education is tasked with overseeing this funding process and ensuring that schools receive the necessary funds upon approval of their plans.

If a school has applied for funding to help with the costs of changing their mascot, they are not required to comply with the new rule until their funding request is approved. This aims to help schools manage the financial burden associated with these changes.