The Minnesota House convened on May 1, 2025, to discuss and pass House File 2098, an omnibus local government policy bill. The meeting began with the chief clerk reporting the bill, which aims to modify the classification of certain public data. Representative Freiberg, the bill's author from Hennepin, introduced the bill, acknowledging that it encompasses a variety of unrelated provisions rather than a cohesive theme.
During the discussion, Freiberg outlined the various components included in the bill, such as measures to broaden public data access for Met Council personnel, increase reimbursable amounts for eminent domain appraisals, and authorize public water districts to install water and sewer lines within public rights of way. Other provisions addressed public notice publishing requirements, changes to the Saint Louis County governing chapter, and updates to the landlord-tenant guide.
The House proceeded to consider amendments to the bill. Representative Momani Hiltzley proposed an amendment aimed at simplifying access to the landlord-tenant guide for towns and cities, which was supported by Representative Quam, who emphasized the environmental benefits of reducing paper usage. The amendment passed without opposition.
Another amendment, introduced by Representative Anderson PH, sought to delete a redundant section of the bill related to public data exemptions for smaller cities and counties, which was already covered in the judiciary. This amendment also received support and was adopted.
The meeting concluded with the successful passage of the amendments, reflecting a collaborative effort among representatives to enhance local governance and public access to information. The next steps for the bill will involve further discussions and potential implementation of the approved measures.