Construction mitigation grants awarded to businesses affected by Trunk Highway 65 construction, report required, and money appropriated.
Impact
The bill establishes a grant program administered by the commissioner of employment and economic development. Grants will be awarded based on various criteria, including the rate of revenue decline and the proximity to construction zones. This legislative measure is seen as a significant step in supporting local businesses during infrastructure improvements, ensuring that they can maintain operations during periods of disruption.
Summary
House File 2645 focuses on providing construction mitigation grants to businesses adversely affected by the Trunk Highway 65 construction project in Minnesota. The bill, authored by Representative West, aims to alleviate the financial strain on small businesses near the construction sites. It targets businesses with up to 40 employees that experience significant impacts such as impaired road access and decreased visibility due to construction activities.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of funds and the criteria for granting support. While the bill prioritizes businesses most severely affected, there may be concerns over which businesses qualify and how the grant determinations are made. Furthermore, the bill includes a provision for an annual report detailing the distribution of funds, which aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the program's implementation.