Purpose of the Bill

The primary purpose of this bill is to address and identify disparities in equal opportunity and access to housing for African Americans in Minnesota. It seeks to ensure compliance with equal opportunity laws by auditing the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency.

Main Provisions

• Audit Requirement: The bill mandates an independent audit of the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency to evaluate its compliance with existing equal opportunity laws, policies, and programs.
• Establishment of Oversight Committee: A citizen oversight committee will be formed in collaboration with the Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage. This committee will:
  • Inventory relevant state and federal equal opportunity laws, policies, and programs.
  • Oversee the audit conducted by the independent auditor.
  • Report findings and recommendations to state officials, including the governor and relevant legislative committees.
• Funding and Timeline: The bill appropriates funds from the state's general fund for fiscal year 2026 to the state auditor to facilitate the hiring of an independent auditor and the establishment of the oversight committee. The final report, complete with recommendations, must be submitted before the 2026 legislative session begins.

Significant Changes

• The bill introduces a new requirement for an independent audit of the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency specifically focused on equal opportunity and access for African Americans, which is not mandated by existing legislation.
• It establishes an oversight mechanism involving citizen participation and input, enhancing transparency and community involvement in examining and improving housing equity.

Relevant Terms

• Audit
• Minnesota Housing Finance Agency
• Equal Opportunity Laws
• African Americans
• Citizen Oversight Committee
• Disparities in Housing
• Compliance
• Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage