MN HF1542

School districts and charter schools must annually report to the Department of Education by November 1 data on student deaths, hospitalizations, and illnesses resulting from foreign exchange or study abroad programs, using a form developed by the department.

The Department of Education must aggregate and publish reported data on its website in accessible format, including links to the U.S. Department of State's Consular Information Program and publicly available reports on sexual assaults and criminal acts affecting study abroad participants.

Foreign exchange and study abroad program providers must register annually with the Secretary of State and provide information including organization details, business identification number, Council on Standards for International Educational Travel listing, placement data, and signatures of chief officers.

School districts and charter schools are encouraged to adopt policies supporting foreign exchange and study abroad programs and to include program standards ensuring student health and safety.

Educational agencies may not disclose directory information to program providers unless the provider is registered with the Secretary of State; appropriations are made to the Commissioner of Education and Secretary of State for program oversight and registration purposes, effective for the 2015-2016 school year and later.