Minnesota Senate Bill SF3278

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/18/23
• Refer: 4/18/23

Caption

Allowing ranking minority members of standing legislative committees to request fiscal notes

Impact

The passage of SF3278 would modify Minnesota Statutes 2022, specifically Section 3.98. Currently, the preparation of fiscal notes is primarily at the discretion of the chairpersons of legislative committees. By allowing minority members to also request these notes, the bill intends to promote greater inclusivity in the legislative process. This reform could potentially lead to more informed debates and decisions, ultimately enhancing the quality of oversight legislators have on fiscal matters concerning state legislation.

Summary

SF3278 is a bill proposed in the Minnesota Senate that seeks to amend the existing Minnesota Statutes related to the preparation and distribution of fiscal notes. The core purpose of the bill is to allow ranking minority members of standing legislative committees to request fiscal notes, a tool that provides crucial financial implications of proposed legislation. This change is aimed at enhancing the legislative process by ensuring that all committee members, regardless of their party affiliation, have access to essential fiscal data concerning bills they are considering.

Contention

While proponents of SF3278 argue that this bill promotes equity and transparency in state governance, allowing minority voices to have more say in fiscal matters, there may be pushback regarding the potential for increased administrative burden. Critics might express concerns that the change could complicate the legislative timeline or lead to conflicting interpretations of fiscal impacts based on diverging political perspectives. Nevertheless, the anticipated benefits in making financial information readily available to all legislators could outweigh these concerns.