MN HF2521

Establishes a Green School Construction Advisory Task Force with representatives from state departments (Education, Administration, Health, Commerce), the University of Minnesota, the U.S. Green Building Council, the American Institute of Architects, and experts in green building materials, sustainable infrastructure financing, and related fields.

Commissioners of Administration and Education shall convene the task force no later than July 15, 2016, with members compensated according to Minnesota Statutes, section 15.059, subdivision 3.

Task force shall evaluate approaches other states have used to promote green schools and analyze costs and benefits of pursuing LEED and CHPS 2014 certifications versus developing Minnesota-based construction guidelines.

Task force shall recommend options for the state to implement a program promoting green school construction, including any necessary legislation.

Task force shall submit a report containing findings and recommendations to legislative education and energy committees by February 1, 2017, with an unspecified appropriation from the general fund to the Commissioner of Administration for fiscal year 2017.