This bill proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 331A.10, subdivision 2, regarding the publication of public notices by local governments. It modifies the requirements for publishing notices when a qualified newspaper ceases to operate before a notice is fully published.

Key Provisions:

1. If a newspaper discontinues publication before a public notice is completed:

   • If a court order is required for the notice, the court may amend the order to designate another newspaper.
   • If no court order is required, the notice may be published in another qualified newspaper.

2. If no qualified newspaper is available for publication:

   • The local government must post the public notice on its official website until another qualified newspaper is identified.
   • The notice must also be posted on the Minnesota Newspaper Association’s statewide public notice website at no additional cost to the local government.

3. If the notice had already been partially published before the newspaper ceased operation:

   • The time during which it was originally published will still count toward fulfilling publication requirements.
   • Proof of publication can be established through an affidavit from any knowledgeable person.

Purpose of the Bill:

This bill ensures that public notices can still be legally published if a local qualified newspaper stops operating, by permitting their publication online. It enhances government transparency and accessibility to public information when print options are unavailable.