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Bill

SF 1376

Red River Basin water storage and flood mitigation infrastructure projects bond issue and appropriation

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Kupec and 1 co-sponsor

Minnesota bond issue for Red River Basin water storage and flood mitigation infrastructure to reduce flooding risks and protect communities through capital investment.

Referred to Capital Investment
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Bill Summary · SF 1376

Legislative bill overview

SF 1376 proposes a bond issue to fund water storage and flood mitigation infrastructure projects in the Red River Basin region of Minnesota. The bill allocates state funds through bonding authority to support construction and implementation of projects designed to manage water resources and reduce flooding risks in this watershed area.

Why is this important

The Red River Basin has experienced significant flooding events in recent years, causing property damage and economic disruption to communities in Minnesota and neighboring states. Investment in preventative water management infrastructure can reduce future flood damage, protect agricultural lands, and improve water security for the region while supporting economic resilience.

Potential points of contention

  • Bond debt burden: Issuing bonds increases state debt and requires future taxpayer funding through debt service, raising questions about long-term fiscal responsibility and competing budget priorities
  • Project selection and funding allocation: Determining which specific projects receive funding, how much each receives, and whether funding adequately addresses all basin communities could generate regional equity concerns
  • Environmental trade-offs: Water storage and flood control projects may have ecological impacts on wetlands, river systems, and wildlife habitats that require careful environmental review and mitigation

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

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