HF3495 Summary

• Clarifies data disclosure provisions for educational records, permitting disclosure to health authorities for immunization programs, juvenile justice investigations, and postsecondary institutions under specific circumstances with parental notification requirements.

• Establishes new institution eligibility requirements for state student aid, requiring private institutions to maintain academic standards equivalent to comparable institutions, obtain proper licensing, and participate in federal Pell Grant programs by specified deadlines.

• Creates a central system office for Minnesota State Colleges and Universities to coordinate financial management, personnel, facilities, information technology, credit transfer, and auditing functions without duplicating institution-level services.

• Implements registration fee schedule changes including new school fees ($2,000-$3,500 for initial registration), annual renewal fees ($1,200), and fees for program additions ($250-$1,000 depending on degree level).

• Requires schools ceasing operations to cooperate with the office in assisting students to complete studies and provide security bonds between $10,000-$250,000 or equivalent cash deposits for institutions below minimum financial standards.