Purpose of the Bill

The primary aim of this bill is to provide financial assistance for rental payments and to prevent evictions, specifically targeting immigrant and refugee families in Minnesota.

Main Provisions

• Funding Transfer: $2 million will be moved from Minnesota's general fund to the housing development fund for the fiscal year 2026. This is a one-time financial transfer.

• Grant Appropriation: The $2 million from the housing development fund is allocated to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, which will grant these funds to Isuroon, a nonprofit organization.

• Use of Funds:

  • The grant will cover direct rental payments for tenants in Minnesota who owe rent.
  • It will fund eviction prevention through mediation and navigation services.
  • It will support culturally sensitive outreach and case management services that recognize the unique needs of immigrant and refugee communities.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill doesn't alter existing laws directly but introduces a specific allocation of funds for housing assistance targeted at underserved immigrant and refugee families, a focus not explicitly stated in previous law.

Reporting Requirements

• Isuroon must submit annual reports by December 15 each year until 2027. These reports will detail:
  • The number of families who received assistance.
  • The total amount of rental aid distributed.
  • The success and results of eviction prevention measures.

Relevant Terms

• Housing Assistance
• Rental Assistance
• Eviction Prevention
• Immigrant and Refugee Families
• Culturally Responsive Services
• Housing Finance Agency
• Nonprofit Organization