MN SF483

Establishes a choice scholarship program for eligible low-income students to attend nonpublic schools in Minnesota starting with the 2014-2015 school year.

Limits scholarships to 1,500 for 2014-2015 and 3,000 for 2015-2016 school years, with maximum awards of $4,500 for elementary students (grades 1-8) and higher amounts for secondary students based on income and tuition costs.

Requires eligible students to be Minnesota residents, previously enrolled in public school for at least two semesters, and from households earning no more than 150 percent of the federal free or reduced-price lunch income threshold.

Protects nonpublic schools from state regulation regarding curriculum, religious instruction, teacher hiring, and educational programs while requiring compliance verification through random department visits and annual principal certifications.

Authorizes the Department of Education to adopt rules implementing the program and appropriates funds for scholarship distribution.