This bill introduces a new agricultural water quality credit for property owners in designated counties of Minnesota who are part of the Minnesota agricultural water quality certification program. The credit, valued at $5 per certified acre, applies to properties classified as 2a or 2b under section 273.13. The commissioner of agriculture will notify county assessors of the certified acres, while county auditors will determine the tax reductions and certify them to the commissioner of revenue. The bill also details the reimbursement process for local taxing jurisdictions and school districts, funded by appropriations from the clean water fund. The credit will be incorporated into existing property tax laws, specifically added to section 273.1393 and included in property tax statements as per section 276.04, with an effective date for property taxes payable in 2026.

Furthermore, the bill amends property tax law to allow taxing districts to include notices in property tax statements regarding budget deliberation schedules, encouraging taxpayer participation in hearings. If multiple districts are involved, the county treasurer or auditor will coordinate these notices, potentially consolidating them into a single announcement. The changes aim to enhance taxpayer engagement in local budget processes by ensuring they are informed about significant meetings and decisions that may impact their property taxes, with the implementation of these provisions also set for property taxes payable starting in 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 273.1392, 273.1393, 275.065, 276.04
1st Engrossment: 273.1392, 273.1393, 275.065, 276.04