SF2175

The bill S.F. No. 2175 proposes amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 120B.215, regarding cannabis and substance use education in schools.

Key Provisions:

1. Mandatory Substance Use Education:

   • Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, school districts and charter schools must implement a comprehensive education program for middle and high school students.
     
   • The program must cover cannabis use and substance use, including fentanyl and fentanyl-laced substances.
     

2. Curriculum Requirements:

   • Instruction must align with topics listed in subdivision 1 (likely covering risks, effects, and prevention strategies).
     
   • The curriculum must:
     
     • Respect community values and encourage students to discuss substance use with parents, guardians, and trusted adults.
       
     • Refer students to local resources for medically accurate information and treatment options for substance use disorders.
       

3. School Discretion in Additional Programs:

   • A new subdivision (2a) allows school districts and charter schools the discretion to adopt additional programs aimed at discouraging and preventing underage substance abuse.
     

Impact:

• This bill strengthens substance use education in Minnesota schools, particularly focusing on fentanyl awareness.
  
• It mandates education but allows schools additional flexibility to expand prevention programs as needed.