SAINT PAUL, Minn. – 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 individuals currently enrolled at the University of Minnesota and Minnesota State systems will not pay one penny more in tuition.
A fact sheet with more information about the House DFL budget is available for download here.
"The House Higher Education Bill continues the House DFL's commitment to keeping higher education affordable and accessible for all Minnesota students. We are working to freeze tuition, provide more state grant dollars and help students attain the education they need to keep Minnesota's economy strong,” said Rep. Ben Lien (DFL – Moorhead), a member of the House Higher Education Committee. "Higher education is a big issue for Moorhead, and I'm proud to serve on the House Higher Education Committee. I'm even more proud to support this bill and keep our campuses strong."
House Democrats’ budget makes college more affordable, reduces debt, expands opportunities for low income and nontraditional students, and improves health and safety on campus. According to the U.S. Department of Education, there are 775,000 Minnesotans with student debt totaling $27.1 billion.
The budget freezes tuition for Minnesota students at all of the state’s two- and four-year public colleges and universities, and increases financial support for working families by investing an additional $35.4 million in the state grant program. As a result, full-time students who benefit from the state grant program will receive on average more than $400 per year more in financial assistance, and more than 6,000 Minnesotans will become eligible for the first time.
To help keep students safe and healthy, House DFLers are prioritizing access to mental health services and legal advocacy support for sexual assault survivors. Additionally, the budget creates hunger-free campuses with the aim to end food insecurity among students.
With the Minnesota House and Senate having approved their respective Higher Education budgets, lawmakers from each chamber will form a conference committee to reach agreement on a final version.