HF1498

This Minnesota House of Representatives bill proposes appropriating funds from the state’s general fund to the Department of Education for grants to museums and education centers. The bill outlines specific funding allocations for various children's museums and educational organizations across the state.

Key Provisions:

• Total Appropriation: $1,090,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
• Funding Allocations:
  • $125,000 each year for The Works Bloomington, Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota (Mankato), and Great River Children’s Museum (St. Cloud).
  • $100,000 each year for SPARK Children’s Museum (Rochester).
  • $82,500 each year for WonderTrek Children’s Museum (Brainerd-Baxter) and Duluth Children's Museum.
  • $75,000 each year for Otter Cove Children’s Museum (Fergus Falls), Children’s Discovery Museum (Grand Rapids), Wheel and Cog Children’s Museum (Hutchinson), Village Children’s Museum (Willmar), Children’s Discovery Museum (Breckenridge), and Mini Sota Ag Museum (Benson).
• Future Funding: The base appropriation for fiscal year 2028 and beyond is set at $1,090,000.
• Balance Transfer: Any remaining funds from fiscal year 2026 will be available for use in fiscal year 2027.

This bill aims to provide consistent financial support to children’s museums and educational centers across Minnesota, enhancing access to educational resources and interactive learning experiences.