Committee hears bill to create clear statute for education innovation programs; sponsors stress local control

The House Education Finance Committee laid over House File 1435 on March 18, 2025, after testimony that the bill would create a clear statutory chapter for education innovation programs and make existing innovation options more accessible to local districts.

Representative Ben Baeckburg introduced the bill and said its twin goals are to (1) create a distinct chapter of law for innovation programs so districts can find and use existing flexibilities, and (2) place planning and decision‑making authority with local educators, school boards and parents rather than centralized approval.

Dr. Akela Roberson of Education Evolving testified in support and said innovation zones have helped districts partner with businesses and community organizations to expand student learning opportunities. ‘‘Innovation zones contribute to the development of educational experiences that are more enriching for our students,’’ Roberson said.

Caitlin Snyder, representing Education Minnesota, testified extemporaneously and said she had “no major concerns” with the bill but recommended a technical amendment to clarify that staff cannot be required to work on a Saturday or outside the typical workday to comply with an innovation program without appropriate bargaining or agreement.

Members asked questions about grant language and Department of Education oversight in existing law. Representative Raybauer asked about language referencing a grant process and whether the bill’s removal of a limit on commissioner approvals for innovation zones would affect MDE oversight. Representative Baeckburg said the bill does not include a new appropriation and that if an appropriation became available, the committee would have further conversations; he said the bill’s purpose is to educate districts about options they already have and to empower local adoption.

Several members expressed support for local flexibility but raised concerns about equity, access, and measurement of student outcomes. Representative Morgan Green asked how effectiveness would be measured; Baeckburg said local districts would set measures and collect pre/post data and he described examples—such as reworking parent‑teacher conference schedules and flexible learning days—that district leaders have used to increase engagement.

The committee laid the bill over for possible inclusion in an omnibus bill or for further consideration.

What was discussed: creation of a clear statutory chapter for innovation, local control versus state oversight, potential grant language, technical amendments to protect staff work hours and access concerns for students across districts.

Next steps: House File 1435 was laid over for additional drafting and potential omnibus inclusion.