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SF2827 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Library construction grant program renaming provision and library construction project grants bond issuance and appropriation

Related bill: HF2484

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to revise the existing library construction grant program in Minnesota to support the improvement, renovation, and construction of public library facilities. The initiative also focuses on enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities and ensuring the responsible use of state funding through regulations on library internet usage and project finance.

Main Provisions

  • Renaming of Program: The library construction grant program will be renamed the "Mary C. Murphy Library Construction Grants Program."

  • Grant Applications: Public library jurisdictions, including regional systems and city or county libraries, can apply for grants to improve or make their facilities accessible.

  • Use of Funds: Grants can be used to remove architectural barriers, expand or renovate existing libraries, or build new library facilities. Funding is meant to enhance accessibility and address hazardous conditions.

  • Grant Limits:

    • Accessibility Grants: Up to $450,000 or 50% of the project cost, whichever is less.
    • Improvement Grants: Up to $1,000,000 or 50% of the project cost, whichever is less.

  • Match Requirement: Applicants must provide matching local funds to receive a grant.

  • Prohibition on Inappropriate Internet Use: Libraries seeking grants must have policies prohibiting the use of their internet to access obscene materials.

  • Sale of Library Property: Should a library improved with state bond proceeds be deemed unnecessary, it may be sold with the proceeds first repaying the state bond funds used in its acquisition or renovation.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • The bill introduces new definitions and measures for grant qualification, emphasizing accessibility improvements and appropriate internet usage policies.
  • It establishes a priority system for awarding grants based on factors like collaboration, tax burden, and project feasibility.
  • The process and stipulations for the sale of library properties funded with state bond proceeds are outlined, allowing for the repayment of state investments.

Relevant Terms

  • Library construction
  • Accessibility grants
  • Internet use policy
  • State bonds
  • Public library jurisdiction
  • Architectural barriers
  • Renovation and expansion

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 19, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 19, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toCapital Investment

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Establishes a requirement for libraries to prohibit access to obscene material as defined in 617.241 to qualify for construction grants."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This bill references the prohibition of obscene material for public library internet use in compliance with section 617.241.",
      "modified": [
        ""
      ]
    },
    "citation": "617.241",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Clarifies application of sale proceeds when a library funded with state bonds is sold."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This bill provides exceptions to the use of proceeds from the sale of public libraries improved with state bond funds, as stated in section 16A.695 subdivision 3.",
      "modified": [
        "Specifies exceptions to 16A.695 rules when a property is sold."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "16A.695",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 3"
  }
]

Sponsors