MN HF3503

Starting September 1, 2025, public schools may not use names, symbols, or images depicting American Indian tribes, individuals, customs, or traditions as mascots, nicknames, logos, or team names unless they obtain an exemption.

Schools located on reservations of federally recognized Tribal Nations in Minnesota where at least 95 percent of students are American Indian are exempt from the prohibition.

The Department of Education commissioner must establish a funding application process for schools to replace prohibited mascots on uniforms, signs, paintings, equipment, gym floors, websites, and other school property.

Schools approved for funding assistance are not required to comply with the prohibition until their application is approved by the commissioner.

A one-time appropriation from the general fund to the Department of Education is provided for mascot replacement assistance in fiscal year 2025, available until July 1, 2026.