Weather forecasting gap-filing radar data funding provided, and money appropriated.

HF 697 appropriates $1.27 million for fiscal year 2026 and $2.05 million for fiscal year 2027 from the state general fund to purchase weather forecasting radar data. The funding aims to fill five critical radar coverage gaps in Minnesota during the first year, expanding to eight gaps annually thereafter, to improve weather monitoring. The procured data must be shared with the Departments of Agriculture, Transportation, and Pollution Control. This funding directly supports the Public Safety Commissioner’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division for enhancing public safety through better weather planning and response.