The bill S.F. No. 1787 proposes the establishment of an Air Ventilation Improvement and Geothermal Infrastructure for Schools Financing Program under the Minnesota Climate Innovative Finance Authority. The program aims to provide low-interest financing to school districts for improving air ventilation systems and installing geothermal energy systems in or near school buildings.

Key Provisions:

1. Priority Goals:

   • Focus on schools in high-poverty communities (determined by Title I funding).
   • Ensure an equal number of projects in and outside the seven-county metropolitan area.
   • Reduce both upfront and total costs of implementation.
   • Establish consumer protection standards for responsible and transparent financial support.

2. Eligibility:

   • Borrowers must be from independent school districts, special school districts, or cooperative units as defined by Minnesota statutes.

3. Funding and Appropriation:

   • The program will be funded in fiscal year 2026 from:
     • The general fund.
     • The renewable development account in the special revenue fund.
   • Any unused funds by June 30, 2027, will be returned to their original accounts.

The bill aims to improve school facility infrastructure while promoting sustainable energy solutions through geothermal systems.