The bill modifies the "Strengthen Minnesota Homes Program" by amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 65A.299, specifically subdivisions 5 and 6. Key changes include extending the project completion deadline from three months to six months after grant approval and introducing new conditions for grant eligibility. Homeowners must now have their properties certified by the commissioner to meet program standards, which can also qualify them for premium discounts or rate reductions on their homeowner's insurance. Additionally, the program will ensure that homeowners who meet these standards, regardless of whether they received a grant, are eligible for such discounts.

Furthermore, the bill establishes criteria for applicant eligibility, prioritizing homeowners with household incomes at or below 115 percent of the area median income. To support these initiatives, the bill appropriates $35 million from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 to issue grants and administer the program, marking this as a one-time appropriation.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 65A.299