MN HF1135

Appropriates $690,000 in fiscal year 2024 from the general fund to the Commissioner of Administration to contract with the University of Minnesota's Institute on the Environment for research on future weather trends.

Research must examine how projections of drought, elevated temperatures, and flooding can be integrated into the design and evaluation of buildings constructed by the state and local units of government.

Research findings must inform building design strategies to reduce energy costs through efficiency measures, innovative materials, renewable energy sources, and prevent damage from extreme weather including intense precipitation, tornadoes, flooding, and high temperatures.

Research must also address how natural systems may be weakened by climate conditions, requiring human intervention through infrastructure redesign to maintain food and wood production, reduce forest fire risk, maintain water quality, and enhance natural habitats.

The Institute on the Environment must submit a written report to legislative committees with jurisdiction over environment policy and capital investment by February 1, 2025, including findings, recommendations, and any proposed policy changes or legislation.