This bill modifies the operating referendum ballot notice and eliminates the authority for school boards to renew a referendum without seeking voter approval unless specific notice requirements are met. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 126C.17, subdivision 9, by adding a new subdivision (9c) that requires school districts to include a specific notice on the ballot regarding taxpayer impact. The new language mandates that for referendums conducted after July 1, 2026, the ballot must clearly state that voting "yes" will result in a property tax increase and that the referendum may be renewed once for an additional term by the school board.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the notice for renewing existing levies must also include a statement indicating that it extends an existing property tax referendum at the same amount per pupil as in the previous year. The bill also establishes that the school board can only renew an expiring referendum by board action if the initial referendum included a specific statement about renewal in its notice. The effective date for these changes is set for referenda conducted on or after July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 126C.17