MN SF4018

Classifies joint powers districts as a formal category of school district alongside common, independent, special, and charter districts, effective July 1, 2018.

Authorizes two or more school boards to form a joint powers district for improving and coordinating special education services and sharing resources among participating districts.

Grants joint powers districts authority to acquire, construct, equip, maintain, and operate special education facilities; lease property with purchase options; and issue bonds or other indebtedness for these purposes.

Allows districts to levy for proportionate shares of rental payments for property leased with purchase options by joint powers districts, effective for taxes payable in 2019 and later.

Maintains that joint powers district authority must comply with joint powers agreements and does not expand powers beyond those granted under Minnesota's joint powers law.