Lawmakers hear from students and manufacturers on bill to fund career‑program scholarships; committee lays bill over

Representatives Scott and Lawrence presented House File 1791 on March 24, 2026, a bill that would create scholarships and grants for high‑school students participating in career and technical education programs.

Industry and program witnesses described how small amounts of targeted funding can remove barriers to student participation. Steve Collina of the Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association said the bill would let schools reinvest program‑generated funds to support students without costing the state general fund. Students and instructors from Saint Francis and Centennial High Schools described costs such as tools, materials and workwear that can limit participation; one student testified that an extra scholarship would have reduced work‑hours and helped purchase a $2,500 toolset while attending postsecondary training.

Committee members praised the hands‑on programs but kept questions focused and brief because of time constraints; the chair laid the bill over for further work.

What’s next: The bill remains on the table for additional drafting and potential amendment.