Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance public safety by providing financial support for local government emergency management activities. This support is focused on improving planning and preparedness for emergencies across Minnesota's counties, federally recognized Tribes, and major cities.

Main Provisions

• Appropriations: The bill allocates $12 million for fiscal year 2026 and another $12 million for fiscal year 2027. These funds are to be taken from the state’s general fund and distributed evenly among emergency management departments in 87 counties, 11 federally recognized Tribes, and four major cities within Minnesota.

• Use of Funds: The allocated funds are intended for emergency management and preparedness activities. These activities include but are not limited to planning, training, equipment purchases, infrastructure improvements, and addressing new and emerging threats. Importantly, these funds must be supplemental and cannot replace existing federal emergency management funding.

• Reporting Requirements: Each recipient of the funds must submit an annual report to the commissioner of public safety by March 15. This report should summarize the use of funds, categorized by activities like planning, training, and capital purchases. A standardized reporting template may be provided to assist recipients.

• Auditing and Compliance: The expenditures are subject to audit by the state auditor, with possible audits conducted on a rotating basis to ensure adherence to state guidelines. Recipients must maintain detailed records to prove that funds were used according to the stipulated purposes.

Significant Changes

The bill introduces a structured funding approach for local emergency management, emphasizing equal distribution and accountability through annual reports and audits. It ensures that new state funds for emergency preparedness are provided without reducing existing federal support.

Relevant Terms

• Local government emergency management
• Planning and preparedness activities
• General fund appropriation
• Counties, Tribes, and cities
• Capital purchases
• Annual reporting
• State audit and compliance