MN SF4457

Creates a contested annexation account in the special revenue fund to reimburse townships for attorney fees incurred in contested annexation proceedings under Minnesota Statutes section 414.031.

Excludes attorney fees from orderly annexation agreements under section 414.0325 from reimbursement eligibility.

Funds the account through legislative appropriations and by requiring townships that prevail in contested annexations to submit any awarded attorney fees to the commissioner of management and budget within 30 days.

Appropriates the account funds to the Office of Administrative Hearings for administration purposes.

Appropriates $5,000,000 from the general fund in fiscal year 2023 to the contested annexation account, effective July 1, 2022.