Legislative Updates

Everyone in the Minneapolis College campus community is encouraged to help advocate for legislative support by sharing information about how lives are transformed when students experience the institution’s high-quality academic programs and exceptional levels of support that help overcome barriers. 

As part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Minneapolis College’s budget is considered by the State Legislature through a systemwide request. If approved, Minneapolis College’s portion of the Minnesota State allocation will provide funding to maintain existing levels of staffing and student services as well as maintain and continually improve its infrastructure and technology investments to accommodate students and employees. 

Supporting Minneapolis College and other Minnesota State colleges and universities helps students achieve their higher education goals affordably and helps the community by providing the talent employers need. Minneapolis College provides an affordable path for community members to elevate their socio-economic status and break the cycle of poverty through higher education. It serves as an anchor in the community at a time when extensive rebuilding of socio-economic systems is desperately needed. By serving under-represented students, Minneapolis College helps advance Minnesota’s economy and workforce.
 

Support the College

Session results

The 2026 Minnesota legislative session concluded with lawmakers approving a $1.2 billion capital investment (bonding) package and several measures affecting higher education, including $64.6 million in Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR) funding for Minnesota State.

As part of Minnesota State's HEAPR funding, Minneapolis College received $14.7 million to replace the roof on the Technical Building. This investment will address critical infrastructure needs and help ensure safe, reliable learning environments for students, faculty, and staff. The funding is part of a broader statewide investment in preserving and modernizing Minnesota State facilities.

Other Higher Education Highlights

Higher Education Bill
Chapter 116

The legislature also approved:

• $3 million for Minnesota State to implement automated identity verification systems to help combat enrollment fraud.
• New protections and support for pregnant and parenting students, including priority registration and expanded accommodation requirements.

• $1.5 million one-time funds were appropriated to the Fostering Independence Higher Education Grants program to address a shortfall.

• Paid leave of up to three hours annually for Minnesota State employees who donate blood.
• New requirements for institutions to clearly explain the difference between developmental education courses and courses that count toward graduation.

While lawmakers provided funding for fraud prevention initiatives, they did not address the projected State Grant funding shortfall, and no changes were made to the State Grant or North Star Promise programs during the session.