Bill > HF2427

This bill establishes a grant program to provide financial assistance to small businesses along Arcade Street and East 7th Street in St. Paul that are negatively impacted by a major construction and redesign project. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will work with local nonprofit organizations and community financial institutions to distribute $2.2 million in grants to qualified businesses with 25 or fewer employees experiencing substantial disruptions like road access, parking, or visibility issues during the construction. Grant recipients can use funds for payroll, operating expenses, and facilities costs, but not for bonuses or capital improvements. The grants will be prioritized based on criteria such as revenue decline, construction duration, project proximity, traffic disruption, and pedestrian/bicycle access. The commissioner is required to submit annual reports to legislative committees detailing the grants awarded, including business names, types, and award amounts. The appropriation is a one-time funding allocation available until June 30, 2029, with up to 2% allowed for administrative costs. The goal is to help small businesses survive and maintain operations during the significant infrastructure project.

Labor and Employment

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2427&ssn=0&y=2025