SF2694

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to mandate that certain public officials within specific cities in Minnesota disclose their economic interests. This aims to enhance transparency and public trust by making sure officials do not have undisclosed conflicts of interest when executing their duties.

Main Provisions

• Expanded Filing Requirements: The bill requires officials in cities of the first, second, or third class to file a statement of economic interest with the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board. This applies irrespective of geographic locations within the state.
• Specific Filing Deadlines:
  • Officials must file their economic interest statement within 60 days of beginning their role as a public official or local official in the specified cities.
  • Judges and county commissioners must file within 60 days of taking office.
  • Individuals running for elective state constitutional or legislative office, or elective local office in metropolitan areas need to file within 14 days after submitting their candidacy.
  • Public officials who require Senate advice and consent must file within 14 days of assuming office duties.
  • Certain roles within the Minnesota Racing Commission are also included in the filing requirement, with a 60-day deadline from accepting their duties.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill amends the existing Minnesota Statutes by extending the requirement to file a statement of economic interest to additional local officials, specifically targeting those in metropolitan and first, second, or third-class cities. This is a broadening of the previous laws that may not have covered officials in these cities or certain elective offices.

Relevant Terms

• Statement of Economic Interest
• Public Official
• Local Official
• First Class City
• Second Class City
• Third Class City
• Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board
• Conflict of Interest
• Transparency