This bill introduces an Agricultural Water Quality Credit for property owners in designated counties of Minnesota who have certified acres under the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program. Eligible properties must be classified as class 2a or 2b and certified by the commissioner of agriculture, with a credit amount set at $5 per certified acre. The county auditor will determine tax reductions and certify these amounts to the commissioner of revenue, while also outlining the reimbursement process for local taxing jurisdictions and school districts to ensure they receive payments for the tax reductions granted under this program. The bill amends several sections of the Minnesota Statutes to incorporate this new credit, affecting the computation of net property taxes and the contents of tax statements, with an effective date for implementation set for property taxes payable in 2026.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing property tax law to include provisions for notifying taxpayers about budget deliberation schedules in property tax statements. It allows taxing districts to inform taxpayers about these meetings and encourages their attendance. In cases involving multiple taxing districts, the county treasurer or auditor will coordinate the inclusion of these notices, potentially consolidating them into a single announcement. The changes are also set to take effect for property taxes payable starting in 2026, aiming to enhance taxpayer engagement in local budget processes by keeping them informed about significant meetings and decisions that may impact their property taxes.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 273.1392, 273.1393, 275.065, 276.04