Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to modify the duties and missions of the Explore Minnesota office, an entity within Minnesota's executive branch, in terms of promoting tourism, livability, and economic development. The bill aims to expand the scope of the office's promotional authority and make specific amendments to existing statutes guiding its operations.

Main Provisions

• Explore Minnesota Establishment: The office, led by a director appointed by the governor and supervised by the commissioner of employment and economic development, oversees tourism, business, and film divisions.

• Expanded Mission: The mission now explicitly includes supporting Minnesota's economy by promoting tourism, enhancing livability, and facilitating workforce and economic opportunities across the state.

• Director's Duties: The director is responsible for publishing promotional materials, coordinating with state agencies, supporting local communities in tourism, conducting market research, and potentially establishing offices abroad to promote international tourism.

• Promotion Agreements: The director is authorized to enter into agreements for marketing and tourism development, including joint efforts with federal and local agencies and educational institutions.

• Promotional Expenses: The bill allows expenditures for promoting travel, tourism, and economic and workforce development. Policies regarding these expenses must be approved by relevant state commissioners.

Significant Changes

• The office's mission now formally includes a focus on livability alongside tourism and economic development, broadening its promotional activities.

• The bill increases flexibility for the director in managing contracts and resources, allowing for agreements and expenditures without competitive bidding under certain conditions.

• The inclusion of international tourism promotion reflects a more outward-looking approach to attracting visitors and economic opportunities to the state.

Relevant Terms

Explore Minnesota, tourism, economic development, livability, promotional authority, travel, workforce opportunity, international tourism, promotional expenses, interagency coordination, marketing strategies, joint powers agreements.