SF2160 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Certain reimbursement amounts increase

Related bill: HF1532

AI Generated Summary

This bill proposes amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 117.036, subdivision 2, concerning eminent domain procedures and property owner reimbursements.

Key Changes:

  1. Increased Appraisal Reimbursement:

    • Currently, property owners can be reimbursed up to:
      • $1,500 for single-family or two-family residential properties and low-value acquisitions.
      • $5,000 for other properties.
    • Proposed increase:
      • $3,000 for single-family, two-family residential properties, and minimal damage acquisitions.
      • $10,000 for other types of properties.
  2. Appraisal Requirements for Eminent Domain Proceedings:

    • If a planned property acquisition exceeds $25,000, at least one appraisal must be obtained.
    • If under $25,000, a minimum damage acquisition report (rather than a full appraisal) may be used.
    • The acquiring authority must consult the owner during the appraisal or report process, if reasonably possible.
    • Property owners have a right to request and receive copies of all appraisals or reports.
  3. Timeframe for Providing Appraisals or Reports:

    • The acquiring authority must give a copy of the appraisal or report to the owner when an offer is made, but no later than 60 days before filing for eminent domain.
  4. Process for Reimbursement:

    • Owners must submit their independent appraisal and supporting documentation at least five days before a condemnation commissioners hearing to qualify for reimbursement.
    • The acquiring authority must reimburse property owners within 30 days of receiving the appraisal.
    • By mutual agreement, the authority may pay the reimbursement directly to the appraiser.

Overall Purpose:

The bill aims to increase fairness and financial support for property owners affected by eminent domain by raising reimbursement limits for independent appraisals and clarifying procedural requirements.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 05, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 05, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toJudiciary and Public Safety

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Increased maximum appraisal reimbursement amounts for different property types."
      ],
      "removed": [
        "Removed lower reimbursement limits."
      ],
      "summary": "This bill modifies the reimbursement amounts for property appraisals in eminent domain cases under section 117.036.",
      "modified": [
        "Updated reimbursement procedure for appraisals."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "117.036"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Reference to ensure compliance with data privacy laws during appraisals."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "References section 13.44 regarding data privacy in eminent domain processes.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "13.44"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Clarification on timing of offers and petition presentations."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Mentions the presentation of a petition under section 117.055 during eminent domain proceedings.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "117.055"
  }
]