HF2634

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to modify the eligibility conditions for the North Star Promise scholarships in Minnesota. The scholarships will be targeted specifically at students who are enrolled in programs that lead to careers in high-demand industries and occupations within the state.

Main Provisions

• Eligibility Criteria: This bill limits scholarship eligibility to students who are pursuing education in programs of study that align with in-demand industries and occupations as identified by Minnesota's Department of Employment and Economic Development.
• In-Demand Industries: The bill mandates the identification of the top 20 industries and occupations with significant projected employment growth or numerous job openings. This list will guide which educational programs qualify for the scholarships.
• Regular Review and Updates: The relevant office is required to review and update the list of approved programs at least every three years, ensuring alignment with current labor market needs.
• Reporting Requirements: The commissioner of higher education must provide annual reports on the scholarship program, including the status of the scholarship fund, list of eligible programs, and data on scholarship recipients.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The scholarship program will focus only on students enrolled in programs linked to high-demand careers, rather than being broadly available to a wider array of students.
• Employment data and projections from the Department of Employment and Economic Development will be pivotal in determining which programs are supported by the scholarship.
• There is an added requirement for regularly updating the list of eligible programs to ensure they reflect the most current labor market demands.

Relevant Terms

• North Star Promise scholarships
• High-demand industries and occupations
• Employment growth projections
• Department of Employment and Economic Development
• Scholarship eligibility criteria
• Labor market data