This bill creates a program called the "Skills Path Program" in Minnesota to help high school students transition directly into skilled careers or trades through a combination of education and work-based training. The program allows eligible educational institutions like public schools and colleges to create programs that combine high school and college coursework with practical, paid work experiences. These programs aim to lead to an associate degree in various skilled occupations.

The bill also establishes a "Skills Path Grant Program," where grants of up to $50,000 each can be awarded to up to ten secondary schools each year. These grants are intended to support the development and implementation of the Skills Path Programs, covering expenses such as marketing, coordination, tuition, books, and required tools.

The funds for this initiative will come from the state's general fund, with an initial allocation of $500,000 for administering the grants and an ongoing annual budget of the same amount starting from fiscal year 2028. This initiative seeks to enhance career opportunities for students by combining educational advancement with practical, on-the-job training.