Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to establish a legislative study group aimed at examining and possibly updating the current graduation credit requirements in Minnesota's educational system. It addresses current education policies, specifically focusing on how they align with career, college readiness, and workforce needs.

Main Provisions

• Establishment of Study Group: A new legislative study group, consisting of eight members from the Minnesota House of Representatives and Senate, is to be formed. These members will be appointed by both the majority and minority leaders of their respective chambers. Appointments must be finalized by June 15, 2025, and positions will expire on December 31, 2026.

• Responsibilities: The group is tasked with reviewing existing graduation credit requirements, evaluating their effectiveness, and suggesting changes. Key areas of focus include:

  • Current statutes around graduation requirements.
  • Flexibility in demonstrating career and college readiness.
  • Teacher licensure requirements and how courses count for credit.
  • Alignment between graduation requirements and Minnesota's workforce needs.

• Cooperation and Support: The Department of Education is required to support the study group with the necessary information. The Legislative Coordinating Commission must provide administrative support, including meeting spaces and technology for remote participation.

• Consultation: The group must consult with interested stakeholders when making its recommendations.

Significant Changes

• The bill introduces a systematic review process for graduation requirements, and any statutory changes needed will be identified and recommended through this study.

• Ensures that education standards are aligned more closely with post-secondary and workforce expectations.

• Reporting: The study group is required to issue a preliminary report with its recommendations by December 15, 2025, and a final report by December 31, 2026. The group will expire following the submission of the final report.

Relevant Terms

graduation requirements, legislative study group, education policy, Minnesota Department of Education, stakeholders, career readiness, college readiness, teacher licensure, workforce needs, statutory changes, legislative report.