Bill
SF 4762
SF 4762 would redefine the baseline used to calculate state grant awards by changing the lowest recognized family responsibility amount, altering eligibility and award amounts.
SF 4762 (Session 2025-2026) — Minnesota
Title: Lowest recognized family responsibility amount for purposes of determining state grant awards modification
Overview
SF 4762 is a Minnesota Senate bill introduced in the 2025-2026 session that seeks to modify how state grant awards use the “lowest recognized family responsibility amount” when determining eligibility or award levels. The bill appears to focus on adjusting the baseline calculation used to assess a student’s or family’s financial responsibility for purposes of state grant determinations. The bill has one sponsor listed as co-sponsor Zach Duckworth and was introduced and referred to the Higher Education committee on March 25, 2026.
Purpose and intent
- To modify the methodology by which the state determines grant awards, specifically by altering the lowest recognized family responsibility amount (LRFRA) used in calculating eligibility or award amounts.
- The intended effect is likely to adjust the financial need assessment that underpins state grants, potentially expanding or constraining eligibility and scale of awards depending on the direction of the change to LRFRA.
Key provisions and changes (as inferred from title and status)
- Establishes or updates the metric called the “lowest recognized family responsibility amount” for purposes of state grant awards.
- Integrates the LRFRA into the formula that determines grant eligibility and/or the amount of grant awards.
- Alters the calculation baseline used to determine need-based aid, which could affect who qualifies for state grants and the size of awards.
- The exact numerical changes (e.g., dollar amount thresholds, percentage adjustments, or inflation adjustments) are not specified in the provided text; the bill would specify the new LRFRA figure and how it interacts with income, family size, and other need-based criteria in the grant framework.
Affected entities
- Students and families applying for Minnesota state grants that use financial need as a determinant.
- State agencies administering higher education grants and need-based aid programs.
- Postsecondary institutions participating in state grant programs, potentially affecting institutional budgeting or aid packaging.
- Representatives and advocates of students with varying family responsibilities who rely on need-based grants.
Procedural and timeline aspects
- Introduction and first reading occurred on March 25, 2026.
- Referred to the Higher Education committee on the same date, indicating initial consideration will be by that committee.
Notes and considerations
- The bill’s exact numerical changes to the LRFRA, the effective date of the new metric, and any transition provisions are not provided in the summary. When available, the text of the bill would specify:
- The new LRFRA value or formula.
- How the LRFRA interacts with other eligibility criteria (income thresholds, family size, dependency status).
- Effective date and any phased implementation or retroactivity.
- Any fiscal impact statements detailing anticipated changes in grant outlays or need-based aid demand.
In summary, SF 4762 proposes redefining the baseline “lowest recognized family responsibility amount” used to calculate state grant awards, with the aim of altering eligibility and award amounts. The measure progresses through the Higher Education committee for further consideration.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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