The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2023 Supplement, section 16B.325, subdivision 2, to clarify sustainable building guidelines. Key changes include a focus on achieving the lowest possible lifetime cost for new buildings and major renovations, with an emphasis on energy conservation. The definition of "major renovations" is updated to encompass not less than 10,000 square feet and includes the cooling system of a building or a building section. Additionally, the bill establishes sustainability and resiliency guidelines that address air quality, lighting standards, and the ability of buildings to adapt to climate-related changes. It also specifies ways to reduce material costs and considers long-term operating costs, including the use of renewable energy sources.

Furthermore, the bill modifies Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 10, section 8, allocating $690,000 for a contract with the University of Minnesota's Institute on the Environment to research and provide recommendations for new guidelines for state buildings. The grant agreement mandates a written report summarizing findings and recommendations for policy and legislative changes. The bill also includes a provision for $255,000 for grants and environmental analysis of construction materials. Notably, the effective date of these changes is retroactively set to July 1, 2023.