MN SF476

Commissioner of Education must develop a climate justice model program by July 1, 2024, and every odd-numbered year thereafter, in consultation with the Pollution Control Agency, environmental organizations, and teachers.

Model program must cover human activities causing climate change, disproportionate climate effects on communities facing systemic oppression (Black, Indigenous, people of color, people with disabilities, low-income communities), systemic change and environmental stewardship, and economic and environmental solutions led by impacted communities.

School districts and charter schools must implement climate justice education programs starting in the 2025-2026 school year for all elementary and secondary students, including students with disabilities and those in alternative programs.

Schools must report to the Commissioner of Education on their climate justice program implementation and whether they adopted the state model program.

Commissioner must submit a report to legislative committees by January 31, 2026, describing how the model program was identified, assistance provided to schools, and the number of districts and schools that adopted the program.