Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF2063

Introduced
2/20/23  

Caption

Drinking water revolving fund law modified to address replacement of lead service lines and emerging contaminants.

Impact

The proposed changes in HF2063 carry potential implications for both state laws and community health standards. The bill aims to ensure compliance with national drinking water regulations while incentivizing local governments to invest in safer drinking water initiatives. By providing loans with favorable terms, the bill encourages investment in necessary infrastructure upgrades, which can enhance community health and safety by mitigating contamination risks. This legislative action could lead to a long-term improvement in public health outcomes as communities replace harmful lead pipes and reduce exposure to toxic materials.

Summary

House File 2063 focuses on modifications to the drinking water revolving fund laws to facilitate the replacement of lead service lines and address emerging contaminants in Minnesota's drinking water supply. The bill seeks to amend current statutes to provide financial mechanisms aimed at helping local governments manage the costs associated with upgrading and replacing aging water infrastructure. Notably, the bill proposes zero percent interest loans for projects specifically aimed at replacing lead service lines, which are a significant health hazard for communities relying on outdated plumbing systems.

Contention

While the bill generally enjoys support as a public health initiative, some concerns may arise regarding the funding allocations and regulatory oversight. Critics might argue about potential overreach in funding mechanisms or emphasize that while providing zero-interest loans can be beneficial, it may not sufficiently address the broader issues of environmental justice and equitable access to safe drinking water. Additionally, concerns may be raised about the adequacy of oversight in managing how funds are allocated and used, especially considering varying local capacities to manage large-scale water projects.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MN HF24

Lead drinking water service line replacement grant program established, report required, and money appropriated.

MN SF30

Lead drinking water service lines grant program establishment; appropriating money

MN SF4793

Green infrastructure grant program establishment; criteria for certain projects funded through the clean water and drinking water revolving funds modification; rules and prioritization of clean water and drinking water projects in certain project priority lists to factor in new criteria requirement; appropriating money

MN SF3092

Creating a new green infrastructure grant program, amending criteria for certain projects funded through the clean water and drinking water revolving funds and appropriations

MN HF4303

New green infrastructure grant program created, criteria projects funded through clean water and drinking water revolving funds amended, rules and prioritization of projects required, and money appropriated.

MN HF2989

New green infrastructure grant program created, criteria for projects funded through clean water and drinking water revolving funds amended, rules and prioritization of projects in project priority lists required to factor in new criteria, and money appropriated.

MN SF862

Water infrastructure funding program modifications provisions, point source implementation grant program modifications provisions, emerging contaminants grant program establishment and bond issuance and appropriation

MN SB1188

Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Fund: financial assistance.

MN SB1919

EPA-WATER REVOLVING FUND

MN SB1399

EPA-WATER REVOLVING FUND

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.