Minnesota House passes Capital Investment Modifications

St. Paul, MN - Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed House File 3631, a package of modifications and extensions for previously authorized Capital Investment projects. The legislation, authored by State Representative Fue Lee (DFL - Minneapolis), mostly relates to the two Capital Investment bills signed into law last year. 

The bill, which requires a supermajority to pass, did so on a vote of 98-32. 

“Our work last year delivered long-awaited support to infrastructure projects throughout Minnesota, and passing today’s bill ensures the funds we allocated can be used as intended,” said Rep. Lee, Chair of the House Capital Investment Committee. “Whether there has been a change in scope, location, or the construction timeline, communities need this bill in order to move forward with these projects.”

Capital investment grants, whether general obligation bonds or cash, can only be spent for the specific capital uses listed in their authorizing language. Grants are also subject to numerous other requirements, such as the fact that projects cannot receive grant funds until they have full funding for the project or phase of the project described in the authorizing language. Funds must also be spent within four years, or they are canceled. Because of this, it is common to need some modifications to previous bond authorizations. 

Most frequently, changes will specify the scope of the project, correct the owner of the facility or project location, or extend unencumbered funds in the event of a project delay. House File 3631 pertains to over 60 infrastructure projects.

More information on the bill, including a full list of the impacted projects, can be found here. Video of today’s floor debate can be found on the House Public Information YouTube channel. 

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