Bill > HF771

This bill establishes a new Supplemental Energy Assistance Grant Program in Minnesota to provide additional energy assistance to low-income households. The program will offer grants to residents whose household income is less than 60 percent of the state median income. Grants can be used for primary heat assistance, crisis grants, emergency heating system repairs, and outreach support. When awarding grants, the commissioner of commerce will prioritize expanding the number of households receiving assistance over increasing grant amounts to existing recipients. The bill includes specific provisions that require grants to first use available LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) funds before providing supplemental assistance. Additionally, the bill mandates an annual report from December 2026 to December 2031 that will detail grant recipients, benefits, and demographic information. The legislation includes a one-time appropriation from the general fund for the program, with up to 10 percent of funds allocated for administrative costs and up to 5 percent for outreach to underserved communities. The appropriated funds will be available until June 30, 2031, and are intended to help low-income households manage their energy costs and heating needs.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0771&ssn=0&y=2025