Housing Finance and Policy

HF 1141 authorizes Minnesota's housing agency to issue up to $400 million in housing infrastructure bonds for projects like affordable housing developments or neighborhood improvements. It establishes annual funding transfers from the state general fund to a dedicated housing bond account, with specific amounts varying by year: $6.4 million starting in 2015, $800,000 in 2017, $2.8 million in 2019, and other amounts through 2047. These transfers are triggered when bonds remain outstanding and are funded from the general budget. The bill directly affects the state housing agency, which manages the bond program, and ensures predictable annual funding for housing infrastructure projects over multiple decades.

HF 3403 allocates $44 million for counties and $6 million for Tribal governments in fiscal year 2026 to provide emergency rental assistance. It requires counties and Tribal governments to use these funds solely for rental assistance to eligible households meeting three criteria: income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, Minnesota residency, and homelessness or imminent housing crisis. Funds must be distributed within 15 days of the bill's effective date and spent within 180 days, with unspent money returned to the state general fund. This one-time appropriation directly supports low-income renters facing housing instability across Minnesota.

HF 1268 modifies rules for common interest communities (like condominiums and homeowners associations) in Minnesota, directly affecting property management companies, community governing bodies, and unit owners. Key provisions include prohibiting property managers from having financial ties to contractors they hire without written disclosure, banning compensation based on fines collected, and requiring written notice for contract renewals. The bill also establishes a "meet and confer" process for disputes and changes notice requirements for community meetings. It prohibits governing bodies from requiring or incentivizing the creation of homeowners associations. These changes aim to increase transparency and fairness in community governance.

HF 3640 establishes a new right for prospective renters in Minnesota to view a rental property before signing a lease. Landlords must notify renters of this option and allow either an in-person visit or a virtual tour if the renter cannot visit in person. Any agreement waiving this right is invalid, and renters who are denied a viewing can recover three times their actual damages or $1,000 (whichever is greater), plus legal fees. This bill directly affects landlords and prospective tenants by creating a concrete requirement for transparency in rental property showings.

This bill expands financial assistance for manufactured home owners in Minnesota who are forced to move due to significant increases in lot rent or utility costs. It defines "economic displacement" as a rent increase of over ten percent in one year, twenty percent over three years, or thirty percent relative to the owner's annual income. The legislation removes the previous cap on funding from the Manufactured Home Relocation Trust Fund, allowing more resources to be available for relocation expenses. Additionally, it clarifies how park owners can collect fees to contribute to this trust fund and outlines specific situations where owners are exempt from paying relocation costs.