Minnesota voters will decide on November 3, 2026, whether to amend the state constitution to change how funding is distributed from the Permanent School Fund, which could affect overall education funding levels across the state.
The proposed amendment would increase annual distributions from the fund from 2.5% to 4.5% of the fund’s three-year average value. According to sources, the proposed bill will not affect taxpayers across the state because the funds are coming from the Permanent School Fund. The fund was established when Minnesota became a state and generates revenue through investments and natural resource management.
According to Minnesota law, leaving the amendment question blank on the ballot counts as a “no” vote. Consequently, individuals who favor the amendment must specifically choose “yes”
Local school districts across the state will feel the impact, as this allows for the distribution of capital toward essential student resources and vital educational programming. For Native communities, decisions can directly impact academic success, cultural learning, and student resources. American Indian Education programs work with schools and Tribal communities to address the unique educational needs of Native students.
The Circle is sharing resources to help Minnesota voters learn more about the proposed amendment before heading to the polls this November. These resources are here to support your informed choice.
Learn more:
Minnesota School Boards Association- Permanent School Fund resources:
https://mnmsba.org/advocacy/permanent-school-fund/
Minnesota Public Radio coverage:
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/07/30/minnesotans-will-be-able-amend-a-small-piece-of-the-states-constitution-in-november
ABC 6 News coverage:
https://www.kaaltv.com/news/amendment-to-minnesota-constitution-could-increase-school-funding-statewide-with-no-new-taxes/
KSTP coverage:
https://kstp.com/kstp-news/top-news/an-upcoming-november-vote-would-reportedly-increase-school-funding-without-raising-taxes/
Sources: Minnesota Public Radio, ABC 6 News, KSTP, KTT
