Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this act is to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Italian immigrants to the state of Minnesota. It specifically mandates the creation of a commemorative work honoring the first recorded Italian immigrant to the state, to be installed on the State Capitol grounds.

Main Provisions

• Commemorative Work: The Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board (CAAPB) is responsible for commissioning and installing a commemorative work dedicated to the first Italian immigrant to Minnesota.

• Design and Input: The CAAPB is instructed to follow specific Minnesota rules to design the commemorative work. They must issue a public call for artists and gather input from historians and Italian-American cultural organizations to guide the design process.

• Completion Timeline: The design and site selection for the commemorative work must be completed by December 31, 2026, and the installation must be completed by December 31, 2027. Upon completion, an official dedication ceremony will be held by the CAAPB to honor Italian American contributions to the state.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill introduces new responsibilities for the CAAPB and the commissioner of administration to commemorate an aspect of Minnesota's immigrant history. It provides a framework for the state to recognize specific cultural contributions through public installations.

Funding

• Appropriations: Money will be allocated from the general fund for the fiscal year 2026 to the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board and the commissioner of administration for the purposes of this act. These funds will remain available until June 30, 2028.

Relevant Terms

Italian immigrant, commemorate, Capitol grounds, design process, state government, appropriations, cultural contributions, dedication ceremony, Minnesota history.