This bill introduces a reverse referendum process for local government levies in Minnesota, allowing voters to petition for a referendum on proposed levy increases that exceed the previous year's amount. It requires signatures from ten percent of voters who participated in the last general election to initiate the petition process. Additionally, the county auditor is mandated to publish information regarding the right to petition for a referendum, and the bill specifies the consequences of the vote on the proposed levy. If a referendum is held and the majority of voters reject the proposed levy, the maximum allowed levy for the following year will revert to a calculated maximum alternative levy.

Moreover, the bill amends property tax statements to enhance transparency for taxpayers. It requires that tax statements clearly outline the amounts due to various taxing authorities and includes a new provision to inform taxpayers if a city or county has increased its nonvoter approved levy, along with the right to petition for a referendum on that amount. Taxing districts are also permitted to include notices with property tax statements to encourage public participation in upcoming budget deliberations. These provisions are set to take effect for property taxes payable in 2027 and thereafter.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 275.065, 275.07, 276.04