MN SF1596

Requires the legislative auditor to annually submit a list of 3-5 general incentive programs for review, with the Legislative Audit Commission selecting at least one annually for evaluation based on cost, expiration dates, and need for information on major incentives.

Defines "general incentives" as state programs or tax expenditures available to multiple entities or projects, and "exclusive incentives" as those targeting a single specific entity or project, including tax credits, exemptions, deductions, grants, and loans.

Mandates the Legislative Audit Commission establish evaluation plans by February 1, 2016, identifying required elements for auditing both general and exclusive incentive programs, with audits on exclusive incentive best practices occurring at least once every four years.

Requires the Commissioner of Management and Budget to submit reports alongside the governor's budget submission identifying evaluated incentives and recommending whether each should be continued, modified, or replaced with alternative strategies.

Appropriates unspecified amounts from the general fund to the Office of the Legislative Auditor for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 to implement the evaluation requirements.