MN HF567

Expands the definition of "eligible project" to include bioscience business development capital improvement projects such as manufacturing, technology, warehousing and distribution, research and development, business incubators, agricultural bioprocessing, and industrial or research park development.

Establishes a competitive grant program where the commissioner awards grants to local governmental units to acquire, prepare, and construct public infrastructure (including land demolition, hazard remediation, and infrastructure design) to support eligible bioscience projects.

Grant amounts cannot exceed the lesser of the public infrastructure cost or 50 percent of the combined cost of public infrastructure plus the completed eligible project, with local units required to fund the remainder from other sources.

Defines "public infrastructure" to include wastewater systems, drinking water systems, storm sewers, utility extensions, telecommunications infrastructure, streets, roads, bridges, parking ramps, and facilities supporting basic science and clinical research.

Program purpose is to keep or enhance jobs in the area, increase the tax base, and expand or create new economic development through growth of bioscience businesses and organizations.