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Bill

HF 3733

Recreational camping area owners prohibited from charging fees associated with the use of utility services.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ned Carroll

Minnesota bill prohibits recreational campground owners from charging separate fees for utility services, requiring costs be included in base camping rates.

Introduction and first reading, referred to Commerce Finance and Policy
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Bill Summary · HF 3733

Legislative bill overview

HF 3733 prohibits owners of recreational camping areas from charging separate fees for utility services (such as water, sewer, and electrical hookups) to campers. The bill would require that any utility costs be incorporated into the base camping fee rather than charged as itemized add-ons.

Why is this important

Recreational camping is a significant Minnesota tourism and leisure activity, and utility fee transparency directly affects affordability and consumer expectations. This regulation would simplify pricing structures for consumers but could substantially impact the operating margins and pricing flexibility of campground operators who currently use tiered fee systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Business cost impact: Campground owners may argue that bundling utility fees into base rates reduces their ability to charge appropriately for high-usage sites or seasonal variations, potentially forcing across-the-board price increases
  • Rate structure complexity: Different sites have different utility infrastructure costs (full hookups vs. primitive camping); bundling may create equity issues where some customers subsidize others
  • Enforcement and definition: The bill would require clear regulatory definitions of what constitutes a "utility service fee" versus legitimate operational charges, which may prove administratively complex

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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