Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that increases funding for state higher education budgets in Minnesota.

Highlights:

• Appropriates millions in funding from the general fund for higher education budgets in Minnesota, including (Sec. 2-8):

• $19.6 million for commissioner of the Office of Higher Education to award competitive grants to applicants​;

• $9.5 million for the Fostering Independence Higher Education Grant;

• $112.2 million for the North Star Promise Program; and

• $500,00 for the Kids on Campus initiative

• Amends various other provisions adding to last year’s funding increase for Minnesota’s colleges and universities (Sec. 2-8):

• Froze tuition at Minnesota State for 2 years;

• Fully funded the University of Minnesota’s systemwide safety and security request; and 

• Provided free college to students with a household income under $80,000

• Specifies that the provisions of this bill shall take effect immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor (Sec. 9).

Full Bill Text