Online publication authorized as an alternative to publication in a qualified newspaper.

This bill allows Minnesota local governments to publish official notices on their websites instead of only in qualified newspapers. It directly affects cities, counties, and other political subdivisions that currently must use newspapers for public notices, legal summons, and bid solicitations. The law defines new terms for "website" and "publish" to include online dissemination, and permits local governments to use their own websites or the Minnesota Newspaper Association's statewide notice site when no qualified newspaper exists. For bid solicitations, the bill allows a six-month transition period where both newspaper and online publication are required before online-only publication becomes sufficient. The changes take effect immediately upon final enactment.