Bill > HF1364

This bill provides funding and establishes a program for wetland replacement related to local road infrastructure in Minnesota. Specifically, the bill appropriates $15,000,000 from bond proceeds and $11,500,000 from the general fund in fiscal year 2026, and an additional $15,000,000 from the general fund in fiscal year 2027 to the Board of Water and Soil Resources. The funds will be used to acquire land or permanent easements and to restore, create, enhance, and preserve wetlands that have been drained or filled during public road repair, reconstruction, replacement, or rehabilitation. The board is granted flexibility to prioritize wetland replacement and may enter into agreements with various entities, including federal agencies, state agencies, political subdivisions, and nonprofit organizations, to acquire wetland replacement credits. The bill also authorizes the commissioner of management and budget to sell and issue state bonds up to $15,000,000 to support the program. The purchase of land or easements must be at fair market value, and the board can implement in-lieu fee agreements approved by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under the federal Clean Water Act. The bill becomes effective the day following its final enactment.

Budget and Finance

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1364&ssn=0&y=2025