Students allowed to complete state assessments remotely, and money appropriated.

HF 1719 allows students enrolled in online instructional programs (as defined in Minnesota law) to take state standardized tests remotely starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The bill requires the state education department to develop specific policies for remote testing, including proctor qualifications, student-to-proctor ratios, technology requirements, and parental consent. It appropriates $200,000 for the 2026 fiscal year to create these policies and conduct validation studies comparing remote and in-person test results. The policy changes take effect July 1, 2025, with implementation beginning in the 2026-2027 school year for eligible students.