Matching requirements for the lower population density grant program modified.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Roger Skraba and 1 co-sponsor

HF 1552 changes the matching requirements for Minnesota's lower population density grant program, affecting local governments, co-ops, and rural groups seeking funding.

Introduction and first reading, referred to Agriculture Finance and Policy

#agricultureandagriculturedepartment #telecommunicationsandinformationtechnology

Overview

HF 1552, introduced on February 26, 2025, proposes changes to the matching requirements for the Minnesota “lower population density grant program.” The bill is introduced and in its first reading, and has been referred to the Agriculture Finance and Policy committee. A Senate companion is SF 843.

Purpose and intent

The primary aim, as indicated by the title, is to modify how matching funds are required for the lower population density grant program.

The bill sits in the realm of agriculture and information technology, suggesting the program supports rural/agricultural projects that may involve broadband or other telecommunications-related activities.

Key provisions (as indicated by available information)

The central provision is a modification to the program’s matching requirements. The exact nature of the modification (e.g., percentage, eligible match sources, or treatment of in-kind contributions) is not specified in the information provided.

Likely areas affected (subject to the bill text) may include:

The required local/state/private match and what counts toward it.
Eligible and ineligible sources of matching funds.
The types of projects or activities that qualify for the grant under the lower population density program.
Any changes to administration, reporting, or oversight tied to the matching requirements.

Because the bill text is not included here, precise details on dollar amounts, match percentages, or affected programs cannot be confirmed.

Who would be affected

Local governments, cooperatives, nonprofit organizations, and private partners seeking funding under the lower population density grant program.

State agencies administering the program (likely including components of the Department of Agriculture and the Telecommunications/Information Technology areas referenced in the subject).

Rural communities and agricultural interests that rely on grants to support infrastructure or tech-enabled projects.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced and referred for first reading: February 26, 2025.

After first reading, the bill would typically advance to a committee (Agriculture Finance and Policy) for hearings, possible amendments, and a committee vote.

If advanced, it would proceed through the standard legislative process toward potential floor votes in both chambers.

The companion bill in the Senate is SF 843, which may provide parallel language and movement across the legislature.

Notes and next steps

The current summary reflects only the information available in the bill’s introductory record. The specific provisions, including exact changes to matching requirements, will be contained in the bill text and any fiscal notes or amendments discussed in committee.

For a complete understanding, review HF 1552’s full text and any amended language once published, as well as the related SF 843 companion.

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