Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF96

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  

Caption

Issuance authorization and appropriation of shelter facility appropriation bonds

Impact

If passed, SF96 is expected to have a significant effect on state law related to funding for homelessness initiatives. By providing a structured mechanism for financing shelter facilities, the bill aims to enhance the state's ability to address homelessness, improving access to transitional living spaces for vulnerable populations. The law is designed to facilitate a more active investment in social services through public-private partnerships, potentially increasing the number of shelters available and improving their conditions. This could lead to a direct positive impact on state health and public safety outcomes as well.

Summary

Senate File 96 (SF96) seeks to authorize the issuance of appropriation bonds for the development, rehabilitation, and acquisition of shelter facilities aimed at serving homeless populations in Minnesota. The bill allows for up to $25,000,000 in bonds to be issued, with proceeds allocated towards loans or grants to local governments, non-profit organizations, and tribal governments. The bill outlines the funding structure, stipulating that bond proceeds will be deposited into a specific fund dedicated to shelter facility development. Additionally, it provides a statutory framework for the management and repayment of the bonds, which are not considered a public debt of the state, meaning the state is not required to make appropriations for their payment in any given fiscal year.

Contention

However, the bill is not without its points of contention. Critics may argue about the reliance on bond funding for social services, expressing concerns over the fiscal responsibility associated with appropriating funds for bond repayment in future budgets. Some legislators and community advocates might raise issues regarding the adequacy of funding amounts, stating that the designated $25 million might not be sufficient to meet the needs of the homeless population across the state. There is also concern that focusing on bond issues could lead to decreased flexibility in addressing urgent local needs as funding might be directed through state-mandated channels.

Companion Bills

MN HF1218

Similar To Shelter facility appropriation bond issuance authorized, and money appropriated.

Previously Filed As

MN SF184

Issuance authorization of shelter facility appropriation bonds

MN SF3325

Supportive housing and shelter facility bond issuance authorization and appropriation

MN HF1218

Shelter facility appropriation bond issuance authorized, and money appropriated.

MN HF483

Shelter facility appropriation bond issuance authorized, and money appropriated.

MN HF3307

Issuance of supportive housing and shelter facility appropriation bonds authorized, and money appropriated.

MN HF5427

Litchfield; sale and issuance of appropriation bonds to fund wastewater industrial pretreatment facility authorized.

MN SF3113

Event venue capital improvements bond issuance and appropriation

MN SF5490

Litchfield wastewater industrial pretreatment facility bond issue and appropriation

MN SF2319

Vikings stadium secured perimeter bond issue and appropriation

MN SF5383

Vikings stadium secured perimeter bond issue and appropriation

Similar Bills

MN HF832

West Central Regional Water System funding provided, bonds issued, and money appropriated.

MN SF1331

West Central Regional Water System bond issue and appropriation

MN SF2319

Vikings stadium secured perimeter bond issue and appropriation

MN HF2255

Vikings stadium secured perimeter funding provided, appropriation bonds issued, and money appropriated.

MN SF5383

Vikings stadium secured perimeter bond issue and appropriation

MN HF5331

Vikings stadium secured perimeter funding provided, appropriation bonds issued, and money appropriated.

MN SF3325

Supportive housing and shelter facility bond issuance authorization and appropriation

MN HF5427

Litchfield; sale and issuance of appropriation bonds to fund wastewater industrial pretreatment facility authorized.