Senate Bill 1089 establishes a Mississippi River erosion control revolving loan program, which will be administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The bill allocates $2,000,000 to support this initiative, aimed at assisting municipalities and homeowners whose properties are at risk due to shoreline erosion. To facilitate the program, the DNR will increase its position authorization by 0.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) position and is tasked with creating rules that outline eligibility criteria and income limitations for loan applicants.
Additionally, the bill allows the DNR to implement emergency rules to expedite the program's establishment before permanent rules are finalized. These emergency rules can remain in effect for a specified duration without the usual requirements for demonstrating an immediate need for such rules. The legislation is designed to provide timely financial assistance to those affected by erosion along the Mississippi River, ensuring the protection of both municipal infrastructure and private residences.