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HF2584 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Aid to local governments established for emerald ash borer financial assistance, and money appropriated.

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to provide financial assistance to local governments in Minnesota for costs associated with managing emerald ash borer infestations. It seeks to help with the expenses of treating or removing infested ash trees on residential and agricultural properties.

Main Provisions

  • Establishment of Aid Program: The bill sets up a program to distribute financial aid to eligible local governments. The aid will be used specifically for handling the costs related to the emerald ash borer infestation.

  • Eligibility Criteria:

    • Costs must have been incurred in 2020 or later due to state or local requirements to treat or remove infested trees.
    • Eligible local governments include towns with a population of at least 10,000, cities with statutory or home rule charters, and Minnesota Tribal governments.

  • Aid Payment: Aid will be distributed by the Commissioner of Revenue. Payments for 2026 must be certified by January 31 and completed by February 15, 2026.

  • Grant Process: The aid will be allocated through a competitive grant process that considers the rate of infestation, the financial ability of local residents, and the population size of the local government.

  • Use of Funds: Local governments receiving aid must use it to reimburse eligible homeowners with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty guideline for costs incurred in managing infested trees.

  • Appropriation: A one-time appropriation of $1,000,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 is designated for this program, with the Department of Revenue allowed to retain up to 3% for administrative costs.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill introduces a new aid program with specific funding and eligibility requirements not previously established, targeting emerald ash borer infestations. It details specific guidance for the fund's allocation and administration.

Relevant Terms

  • Emerald Ash Borer
  • Financial Assistance
  • Local Government Aid
  • Competitive Grant Program
  • Infestation
  • Reimbursement
  • Federal Poverty Guideline

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 19, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toTaxes
March 23, 2025HouseFloorActionAuthor added
March 23, 2025HouseFloorActionAuthor added

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "The bill refers to the definitions of Minnesota Tribal governments as outlined in section 10.65.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "10.65"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "References to section 16B.98 indicate exceptions for administrative cost retention in this aid program.",
      "modified": [
        "Exemptions from standard protocols for retaining administrative costs from the allocated funds."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "16B.98"
  }
]

Sponsors