HF2544

Purpose of the Bill

This legislative bill aims to establish a Dual Enrollment Task Force in Minnesota. The task force's main purpose is to analyze dual enrollment funding formulas and make recommendations to ensure fair, clear, and sufficient funding for all participants involved.

Main Provisions

• Task Force Creation: A task force will be created to study dual enrollment programs, focusing on funding issues and ensuring all stakeholders are considered.
• Membership: The task force will include a diverse group of members, including legislators, education officials, representatives from educational institutions, and individuals with direct experience in dual enrollment programs. Membership appointments are to be completed by July 1, 2025.
• Duties: The group is tasked with:
  • Reviewing current funding formulas and their impacts on schools, postsecondary institutions, and students.
  • Analyzing cost variations and challenges in different educational settings.
  • Examining financial transparency and accountability in dual enrollment.
  • Identifying participation barriers for underserved communities.
  • Suggesting updates to funding formulas, strategies to promote dual enrollment, and ways to improve support services for students.
• Reporting: By May 30, 2026, the task force must submit a report with its findings and recommendations to the appropriate legislative bodies.
• Meetings and Support: The task force will begin meetings by August 1, 2025, with support from the Department of Education, which will also help in drafting the final report.
• Expiration: The task force will dissolve either on May 30, 2026, or when the report is submitted, whichever comes later.

Financial Provisions

• Appropriations: Funds are allocated from the general fund to the Department of Education specifically for the functioning of the Dual Enrollment Task Force, with this being a one-time financial provision.

Relevant Terms

• Dual enrollment
• Funding formulas
• Equitable access
• Postsecondary institutions
• Transparency and accountability
• Barriers to participation
• Funding adjustments