This bill mandates the legislative auditor to perform a cost-benefit analysis of certain sustainability-related building standards in comparison to the sustainable building guidelines currently outlined in Minnesota Statutes, section 16B.325. The analysis will evaluate the implications of applying various sustainability standards, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ratings, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards, Energy Star requirements, and the International Green Construction Code, specifically for capital projects funded by state general obligation bond proceeds. The auditor is also permitted to include any additional relevant information in the analysis, which must be submitted to the appropriate legislative committees by January 15, 2027.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision for a one-time appropriation of funds from the general fund to support the legislative auditor in conducting this analysis in fiscal year 2027. This financial support is aimed at ensuring the thorough evaluation of the proposed sustainability standards and their potential impact on capital investment projects.