Require School Uniforms in All Minnesota Public Schools

 

This bill mandates a standardized uniform policy for all public K–12 schools in Minnesota. Under this mandate, each

state-funded school district shall adopt a standardized school uniform for students. The policy will affect students,

families, and school communities by creating dress code guidelines and reducing social and economic disparities.

 

A uniform dress code promotes equality and minimizes distractions, which allows students to focus on learning rather

than clothing choices. Uniforms address peer pressuring and bullying associated with appearance while supporting

consistent dress expectations across the state. Providing uniforms to families who cannot afford them prevents financial

stress and ensures that all students can present themselves in a professional and consistent manner. This measure also

simplifies dress code enforcement for school staff and promotes safer, more cohesive school communities.

 

“Public schools” refers to all state-funded K–12 schools in Minnesota, excluding charter and private schools.

“School uniform” refers to a standardized set of clothing determined by each school or district, adhering to a modest,

non-branded policy.

“Low-income student” refers to students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch under federal guidelines.

 

The Minnesota Department of Education shall allocate 0.5% of its annual K–12 operating budget toward a Uniform Access

Grant Fund. This fund will reimburse school districts for the cost of providing up to three school uniform sets per year

to students qualifying as low-income. Schools may also set up donation closets for used uniforms.

 

Each school district is to include the uniform policy in its student code of conduct. Schools are to be held responsible

for day-to-day enforcement of the uniform requirement. Families may apply for waivers from the uniform requirement on

the basis of religious beliefs or documented financial hardship. Repeated noncompliance without an approved exemption

may be treated as a dress code violation subject to appropriate school-level discipline.

 

This Act shall take effect at the beginning of the 2026–2027 school year.