Bill > SF1895

This bill modifies the high-rise sprinkler system program administered by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency by expanding the definition of eligible buildings and adjusting funding mechanisms. The bill broadens the definition of an "eligible building" to include structures that are either 75 feet above fire department vehicle access or seven or more stories tall, and increases the area median income threshold for affordability from 50% to 60%. The program now allows for both grants and loans to building owners for installing sprinkler systems and supporting resident relocation during installation, with priority given to nonprofit applicants. The maximum grant per eligible building remains $2,000,000, with matching requirements of 25% for nonprofit organizations and 50% for for-profit organizations. Additionally, the bill transfers and appropriates $10,000,000 in fiscal year 2026 from the general fund to the housing development fund specifically for this sprinkler system program, marking this as a one-time transfer and appropriation. The changes aim to support fire safety improvements in multi-story residential buildings serving low and moderate-income residents.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1895&ssn=0&y=2025