Summary of Minnesota Senate Bill S.F. No. 2085

This bill establishes the Minnesota Nice HomeShare pilot program to help seniors (ages 55 and older) in Lake, St. Louis, and Washington counties reduce living expenses by renting out spare rooms in their homes to adults in need of affordable housing.

The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency will administer the program and may partner with organizations such as the Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging and AARP Minnesota to promote it.

The program includes the following requirements for the grantee:
1. Provide support to hosts and renters via telephone, text, chat, or video.
2. Collect and process rental payments securely.
3. Protect the private data of participants.
4. Conduct background checks and obtain references for hosts and renters.
5. Verify renters’ employment or school enrollment.
6. Review and process all applications.

The bill appropriates $150,000 for fiscal year 2026 from the general fund to fund the Minnesota Nice HomeShare pilot program.