Bill SF3982

Session 2026

Bill Introduced By
Elliot Stout
Rochester Century High School
Senate

Senate Author
Elliot Stout

A bill for an act relating to

A bill for an act relating to education finance; appropriating money for a grant to Rochester Public Schools for a school-based mental health program.

View SF3982 at revisor.mn.gov

Committee Hearing

Path	Committee	Action
1	Education Committee	No Action Taken
2	Ways and Means and Taxes Committee	No Action Taken
3	Rules Committee	No Action Taken

Legislative Action

	Action
House	No Action Taken
Senate	No Action Taken
Governor	No Action Taken

Select Amendment

1.1          A bill for an act
1.2          relating to education finance; appropriating money for a grant to Rochester Public
1.3          Schools for a school-based mental health program.
1.4          BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.5          Section 1. APPROPRIATION.
1.6                        Subdivision 1.Department of Education. The sum indicated in this section is
1.7          appropriated from the general fund to the Department of Education for the fiscal year
1.8          designated.
1.9                          Subd. 2.School-based mental health program. (a) For a grant to Independent School
1.10       District No. 535, Rochester, for a school-based mental health program:

1.11

.......

.....

2027

1.12       (b) The grant must be used to continue activities originally funded under a school-based
1.13       mental health grant awarded by the United States Department of Education, but later canceled
1.14       by the department. Eligible uses of the grant include any use authorized under the United
1.15       States Department of Education's original approval of the federal grant.
1.16       (c) Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 16B.98, subdivision 14, up to two
1.17       percent of the appropriation is available for grant administration.
1.18       (d) This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2029.

Author
Elliot Stout
Rochester Century High School
Senate

Essay

Senate File 3982 is a good bill because it supports student well-being by providing funding for mental health services directly in schools. The bill would appropriate money to Rochester Public Schools for a school-based mental health program, which means students would have better access to counselors, social workers, and other professionals who can help them with emotional, social, and psychological challenges. Having these supports available where students already spend most of their day can reduce barriers to care, help students stay focused on learning, and promote a healthier, more supportive school environment overall.

Another strong reason this bill is beneficial is that it invests state resources in early prevention and support, rather than waiting until problems get worse. Research shows that early mental health support can reduce issues like anxiety, depression, and behavior problems before they lead to bigger difficulties at home, school, or in the community. By dedicating funds specifically for school-based services, SF 3982 helps ensure that students can get help early and easily, which can also lead to better academic performance, stronger relationships, and safer school communities.

There are currently no votes for this bill.