The bill S.F. No. 1324 proposes the creation of a grant and forgivable loan program managed by the Minnesota Commissioner of Health. This program aims to support accredited (or in the process of accreditation) higher education programs in dental assisting and dental hygiene by funding projects that would increase the capacity for student enrollment. This could include expanding or improving facilities, creating scholarships, enhancing staff salaries, and acquiring necessary equipment and educational resources. Priority will be given to programs with the strongest potential to boost student capacity, without preference for dental hygiene over dental assisting programs. The bill includes a one-time appropriation of $20,000,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2026, to be used for these grants and loans until June 30, 2028.