Story originally printed in the Winona Daily News or online at www.winonadailynews.com

Published - Friday, May 09, 2008

Bill to raise dropout age headed to governor

ST. PAUL (AP) _ A bill that would force students to remain in school until they are 18-years-old is headed to Gov. Tim Pawlenty's desk.

The House passed the bill 82-49 Thursday night. It would also require physical education for graduation. The Senate passed the bill earlier.

Representative Carlos Mariani of St. Paul says many Minnesotans may be unaware that students can legally drop out of school as soon as they turn 16. He says the bill to raise the age by two years "sends a powerful message to our students."

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