Higher education; Campus Closure and Consolidation Commission established.

Minnesota House Bill 3346 proposes the creation of a Campus Closure and Consolidation Commission to evaluate and recommend the closure or consolidation of campuses within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. The commission would consist of eight members appointed by the governor, excluding elected officials and current employees of the system. Their evaluation criteria include operational costs, enrollment trends, and program reputation. The commission is required to gather input from faculty and staff unions and hold public meetings. A report with recommendations is due to the governor by December 1, 2026, with the governor's approval or disapproval by December 31, 2026. If approved, the recommendations would be considered in the biennial budget and subject to public hearings by legislative committees.

Supporters of HF3346 argue that the bill provides a structured and transparent approach to addressing challenges within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. By establishing a dedicated commission with diverse expertise, the state can make informed decisions on campus closures or consolidations, potentially leading to more efficient use of resources and improved educational outcomes. The inclusion of public meetings and input from faculty and staff unions ensures that stakeholders have a voice in the process, fostering trust and collaboration.

Critics of HF3346 express concerns that the bill could lead to the closure of campuses that serve as vital educational and economic hubs in their communities. They worry that the commission's recommendations might prioritize cost-cutting over the needs of students and local populations, potentially reducing access to higher education, especially in rural areas. Additionally, some stakeholders fear that the commission's composition and the governor's approval process may not fully represent the interests of all affected parties, leading to decisions that could negatively impact faculty, staff, and students.