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SF 2141

Use of appropriation from the clean water fund, the parks and trails fund, and the arts and cultural heritage fund prohibition from being used to acquire property through eminent domain

2025-2026 Regular Session

Minnesota bill prohibits Clean Water, Parks and Trails, and Arts funds from financing property acquisition through eminent domain.

Referred to Environment, Climate, and Legacy
#arts #parksandtrails
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SF 2141

Legislative bill overview

SF 2141 prohibits the state from using appropriated funds from three specific sources—the Clean Water Fund, Parks and Trails Fund, and Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund—to acquire private property through eminent domain proceedings. The bill essentially creates a funding restriction that prevents these dedicated environmental, recreational, and cultural programs from financing forced property acquisitions by the government.

Why is this important

This bill addresses concerns about how public funds designated for specific environmental and cultural purposes might be diverted toward property seizures. Property owners worry about eminent domain use for projects they oppose, while supporters of environmental and arts initiatives may be concerned that restricting funding sources limits government capacity to complete necessary public projects that require land acquisition.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. public necessity: Opponents may argue the restriction hampers government's ability to acquire land for legitimate public infrastructure (water treatment facilities, parks expansion, cultural centers), while supporters see it as protecting private property rights
  • Fund purpose alignment: Debate over whether eminent domain acquisitions are appropriate uses of these specialized funds, or if they should be reserved exclusively for direct environmental, recreational, and cultural programs
  • Alternative funding mechanisms: Questions about whether governments can/should use general appropriations instead, and whether this simply shifts costs rather than preventing acquisitions

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

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