The bill H.F. No. 2563 appropriates funds from various heritage and environmental funds in Minnesota for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, focusing on conservation, water quality, and cultural initiatives. It allocates significant amounts for land acquisition, habitat restoration, and wildlife management, with specific funding designated for projects such as $2,141,000 for the Shell Rock River watershed and $3,137,000 for conservation easements in northeast Minnesota. The bill also emphasizes the importance of monitoring and enforcement for funded projects, ensuring that organizations adhere to accountability standards regarding the use of appropriated funds.

In addition to environmental initiatives, the bill supports arts and cultural heritage, allocating $29,669,000 in the first year and $37,978,000 in the second year to the Minnesota State Arts Board. It establishes grant programs for community-based organizations, with a focus on cultural festivals and language preservation, while introducing restrictions on the use of arts and cultural heritage funds for new construction or major renovations. The bill also modifies existing appropriations related to the Minnesota Historical Society and includes funding for various cultural organizations, aiming to enhance access to arts and cultural education while ensuring effective use of public funds.

Statutes affected:
1st Engrossment: 97A.056, 114D.30, 129D.17
2nd Engrossment: 97A.056, 114D.30, 129D.17
1st Unofficial Engrossment: 97A.056, 114D.50, 129D.17
CCR-HF2563: 97A.056, 114D.30, 129D.17