HF2645

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to provide financial assistance to small businesses affected by the construction on Trunk Highway 65 in Blaine, Minnesota. The objective is to support these businesses in maintaining operations during the construction period.

Main Provisions

• Mitigation Grants: The bill establishes that grants will be awarded to small businesses that face significant disruptions due to the Trunk Highway 65 construction project.

• Criteria for Eligibility: To be eligible, businesses must employ up to 40 full-time or part-time employees and experience substantial disruption such as impaired road access, parking, or visibility for at least one month due to the project.

• Prioritization of Grants: The prioritization for awarding grants will be based on:

  • Rate of revenue decline.
  • Duration of construction.
  • Proximity to construction.
  • Severity of traffic disruption.
  • Lack of access for pedestrian traffic.

• Use of Grant Funds: Funds can be used for costs like employee payroll, operating expenses, or facility expenses. They cannot be used for bonuses, new equipment, furniture, capital improvements, construction, or expansion.

Significant Changes

• Reporting Requirements: The commissioner must report annually starting on January 15, 2027, detailing the grants awarded, including the names, addresses, types of businesses, and amounts for each award. This aims to ensure transparency and accountability.

Relevant Terms

Trunk Highway 65, mitigation grants, small businesses, construction impact, revenue decline, pedestrian traffic, financial assistance, Minnesota.