HF3147

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to invest in the development of new habitats for large cats and wolves at the Como Zoo located in St. Paul, Minnesota. This initiative is intended to enhance the living conditions of the animals and improve visitor experience.

Main Provisions

• Funding Allocation: The bill proposes an appropriation of $20,000,000 from the bond proceeds fund.
• Use of Funds: The allocated funds will be used by the Metropolitan Council to grant the city of St. Paul the means to design, construct, furnish, and equip new habitats specifically for lions, tigers, cougars, snow leopards, and wolves.
• Additional Facilities: Besides the exhibit spaces, the new habitats will include amenities for animal training and enrichment, off-exhibit housing for the animals, and facilities for veterinary care.

Significant Changes

• This bill authorizes the sale and issuance of state bonds to finance the development of the new zoo habitats. This action falls under the guidelines set by Minnesota Statutes and the Minnesota Constitution, which oversee bond sales and the use of bond proceeds for state projects.

Relevant Terms

• Capital Investment
• Habitat Construction
• State Bonds
• Minnesota Metropolitan Council
• Zoo Enrichment Facilities