MN SF5128

Establishes a pilot program administered by the Office of Higher Education commissioner to provide meal stipends to full-time postsecondary enrollment options (PSEO) students at two Minnesota postsecondary institutions.

Commissioner must select two participating institutions by June 1, 2025: one located within the seven-county metropolitan area and one located outside it, based on criteria including sufficient full-time PSEO population and demonstrated financial need among students.

Commissioner must select a vendor by June 1, 2025 to implement a secure, user-friendly digital wallet system for disbursing stipends, with requirements for proven digital wallet management, strong data security, accessibility for those with disabilities, and compatibility with institutional food service systems.

Students are eligible for stipends if they are PSEO students enrolled full-time at a selected institution; commissioner may prioritize stipends based on demonstrated financial need if appropriated funds are insufficient.

Appropriates $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2025 for student meal stipends and administrative expenses, with first stipends available fall 2025 and program expiring July 1, 2028; commissioner must submit preliminary report by February 1, 2025 and annual reports thereafter including enrollment data, recipient demographics, fund accounting, and outcome analysis.