Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to regulate how local government officials in Minnesota handle decisions about municipal debt obligations as they leave office. It seeks to prevent outgoing officials from influencing long-term financial decisions for the municipality.

Main Provisions

• Defines "outgoing official" as someone whose term is ending after their successor has been elected or appointed.
• Prohibits these outgoing officials from voting on new municipal debt obligations. This means they cannot participate in decisions that would commit the municipality to new financial responsibilities.
• If an outgoing official does vote on a financial matter, their vote will not be counted.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill changes current procedures by introducing a restriction on voting by outgoing officials regarding municipal debt. This aims to ensure that those who are no longer accountable to voters do not influence significant financial decisions.
• An exception is made for obligations that require public approval—a majority vote by electors—per existing statutes.

Relevant Terms

• Local government
• Outgoing officials
• Municipal debt obligations
• Governing body
• Elected officials
• Financial decision-making
• Public approval