This bill introduces a series of amendments to Minnesota Statutes aimed at enhancing state government operations, employee benefits, and accountability measures. Key provisions include the designation of the giant beaver as the official state fossil and Ursa Minor as the official state constellation. It establishes a Special Reviews Division within the legislative auditor's office, expands whistleblower protections, and modifies eligibility for state employee group insurance. The bill also streamlines the administrative law process by clarifying the finality of administrative law judge decisions and allowing agencies to request remand of findings within specified timeframes. Additionally, it creates the State Agency Value Initiative (SAVI) program to promote cost-saving measures within state agencies.

Further amendments focus on improving governance and support for small businesses, particularly those owned by veterans. The bill allows direct contract awards to small businesses for contracts valued up to $100,000 and sets subcontracting goals for prime contractors. It also enhances employee benefits by allowing vacation time donations and establishes a new program for customized employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The bill revives the Legislative COVID-19 Response Commission and outlines a framework for a long-term care insurance program, ensuring that benefits are not subject to collective bargaining. Overall, the bill aims to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability within state operations while supporting economic development and employee welfare.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 16B.328, 16B.055, 16B.335, 16B.48, 16B.54, 16C.137, 4A.07
1st Engrossment: 3.303, 3.305, 3.971, 11A.24, 13.04, 14.48, 14.62, 15A.082, 16A.28, 16B.055, 16B.335, 16B.48, 16B.54, 16B.97, 16B.98, 16B.981, 16B.991, 16C.05, 16C.137, 16C.16, 16D.09, 43A.27, 151.741, 181.931, 181.932, 471.6985, 16B.45, 43A.01, 43A.02, 43A.04, 43A.05, 43A.08, 43A.11, 43A.121, 43A.15, 43A.17, 43A.18, 43A.181, 43A.1815, 43A.19, 43A.23, 43A.24, 43A.33, 43A.346, 43A.36, 43A.421