Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to allocate financial resources to support the preparation and activities related to Expo 2031. This involves funding the Dakota County Community Development Agency to partner with a host organization for necessary planning and expenses.

Main Provisions

• Appropriation of Funds: The bill provides $1,000,000 from the Minnesota general fund for fiscal year 2026. These funds are intended to aid the Dakota County Community Development Agency and the Expo 2031 host organization.

• Usage of Funds: The funding may cover various activities including licensing fees required by law, the finalization of development planning, and reimbursement of costs incurred by the Dakota County Community Development Agency. Reimbursements are allowed up to 90 days before the expenses are officially recorded (encumbrance).

• Contingent Appropriation: The use of these funds is contingent on obtaining approval from the International Association of Horticultural Producers and the Bureau International des Expositions. If approval is not granted, the money will be redirected to the Minnesota investment fund.

• Duration of Appropriation: This funding is a one-time allocation. Any funds not used in the first year will not expire but will remain available to be used in the second year.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill introduces a specific one-time appropriation for Expo 2031 and outlines new procedures and conditions for its usage, contingent on international approval, which is not a standard requirement in existing Minnesota funding laws.

Relevant Terms

Expo 2031, Dakota County Community Development Agency, appropriation, horticultural expo, public-private partnerships, International Association of Horticultural Producers, Bureau International des Expositions, Minnesota investment fund.