The legislative bill introduces the Skills Path Program, aimed at helping high school students in Minnesota transition into skilled careers and trades by providing a combination of education and employment-based training. The main aspects of the program include:

1. Purpose: To create clear career pathways for high school students into skilled occupations by integrating secondary education, post-secondary education credits, and job training.

2. Eligibility: Public schools, tribal schools, vocational centers, non-public schools, and Minnesota state colleges or universities can participate. These institutions can collaborate to offer students dual credit for career and technical education and to provide employment-oriented training.

3. Program Designation and Content: To be considered a Skills Path Program, educational programs must provide career-connected learning, dual credit opportunities in technical education, and employment-based training. The Minnesota Commissioner of Education will develop an application process for schools that wish to be designated as offering a Skills Path Program.

4. Funding: The bill proposes a grant program where secondary schools can receive up to $50,000 to help establish or expand their Skills Path Programs. Grant money can be used for various program-related expenses but not for directly paying student wages.

5. Outcomes: Schools must show how the program helps students progress towards a career in skilled trades or technical fields, detailing partnerships with postsecondary institutions and local employers.

6. State Aid and Credits: Students in these programs will be counted for state education funding purposes. Schools can also grant academic credits that align with local requirements for participation in Skills Path Programs.

7. Appropriation: Funds are allocated for administering these grants, totalling $500,000 annually for 2026 and 2027, with ongoing funding set at the same annual level for subsequent years.

In summary, this bill seeks to empower high school students by providing practical, career-focused education pathways that blend standard schooling with technical training and real-world work experience, facilitated through a collaborative network of educational institutions and industry partners.