Note: A different version of this bill passed during the 2023 legislative session. This listing will be updated to reflect that soon.

This legislation, reintroduced in 2023, would establish the Inclusive Higher Education Technical Assistance Center at the Institute on Community Integration at the University of Minnesota, as well as establishing higher education grant.

The center would coordinate and facilitate a state-wide initiative to expand inclusive higher education opportunities, provide expertise in inclusive higher education, and provide information to students and families. Additionally, it would increase access to technical assistance for institutions of higher education in the state of Minnesota and to local education agencies. This includes training, professional, development, advising, consultation, and creating community events. The center would also be responsible for the monitoring of state and federal law related to inclusive higher education and informing governor, legislature, and Office of Higher Education of impactful changes.

The director of the center would appoint an advisory committee, 50% of the committee made up of students with intellectual disabilities. The remaining 50% will be filled by family members, key stakeholders, and allies. This legislation would also establish grants available for Minnesota institutions of higher education to develop or enhance programs.

If passed, appropriations will come from general funds and appointed to the commissioner of the Office of Higher Education to establish Inclusive Higher Education Technical Assistance Center under Minnesota Statues, section 135A.161 and the grant account under Minnesota Statues, section 135A.162 subdivision 4.

This legislation was originally introduced in 2022 as HF 4210.