This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to enable towns to adopt home rule charters, similar to the existing provisions for cities. It introduces definitions for "town" and "home rule charter town," clarifying the status of towns without a charter. The legislation establishes a process for creating a charter commission, detailing the appointment process, terms of service, and responsibilities, including an annual report submission to the district court. It also outlines procedures for charter adoption and amendment, requiring a majority vote from the electorate, and allows charter commissions to propose new charters if a proposed charter is rejected. Financial provisions ensure towns can cover expenses related to the charter process, enhancing local governance and autonomy.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for town boards of supervisors to propose charter amendments and hold public hearings, similar to city councils. It clarifies that towns organized under a home rule charter are legal successors to their previous statutory organization, preserving all rights, penalties, and properties. The bill also outlines the process for towns to revert to statutory status, requiring a transition plan for any proposal to abandon a charter and applying the same statutory provisions for home rule charter amendments. Overall, these amendments aim to create a uniform framework for managing charters and governance structures for both cities and towns.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 410.015, 410.04, 410.06, 410.11, 410.12, 410.15, 410.20, 410.24, 410.30, 410.33