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Legislative News and Views - Rep. John Persell (DFL)

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RELEASE: Minnesota House Approves Higher Education Budget

Tuesday, April 30, 2019

SAINT PAUL, MN — Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives approved a new higher education budget that would freeze tuition for two years at the state’s public colleges and universities. As a result, more than 200,000 students currently enrolled at Bemidji State University, the University of Minnesota, and Minnesota State systems will not pay one penny more in tuition.

“For many Minnesotans, pursuing a college education means shouldering a significant financial burden,” said Rep. John Persell (DFL – Bemidji). “College should be more affordable, and our tuition freeze would help.”

In addition to freezing tuition for Minnesota students at all of the state’s two- and four-year public colleges and universities, the budget increases financial support for working families by investing $35.4 million in the state grant program. As a result, full-time students who benefit from the program will receive on average $400 more per year in financial assistance, and more than 6,000 Minnesotans will become eligible for the first time.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, there are 775,000 Minnesotans with student debt totaling $27.1 billion. The budget would reduce debt, make college more affordable, and expand opportunities for low-income and nontraditional students. 

Improving health and safety on campus is also a priority. The budget would help students access mental health services and support survivors of sexual assault. It also aims to achieve hunger-free campuses by ending food insecurity among students.

A fact sheet with more information about the House higher education budget is available for download here.

After the Minnesota House and Senate approve their respective higher education budgets, lawmakers from each chamber will form a conference committee to reach agreement on a final version.