Some laid-off iron ore workers may receive extra unemployment benefits

Certain laid-off workers may receive additional unemployment benefits. The program covers workers laid off for lack of work by an iron ore mining employer, or by an explosives maker serving such an employer. The mining employer must have laid off at least 40 percent of its workforce during the period stated in the law, and at least half the worker's wage credits must come from a covered employer. Applicants must meet the regular unemployment benefit rules and use up their regular benefits. Applicants who qualify for federal Trade Readjustment Allowance benefits cannot receive these additional benefits. The worker must have been laid off on or after November 1, 2025, and before March 15, 2026. Benefits may be paid through the week ending March 20, 2027; this section applies retroactively from November 1, 2025.

The law sets aside $191.081 million from the Outdoor Heritage Fund for listed conservation projects and related administration. State agencies and named conservation partners receive funding for work involving prairies, forests, wetlands, and other wildlife habitat in Minnesota. The money is for named projects, including habitat work, land purchases, and grants. Spending must follow an approved plan. Grant recipients must provide at least a 10 percent match from nonstate sources, and habitat restoration or enhancement must take place on permanently protected land. The appropriations are for fiscal year 2027, which ends June 30, 2027. Some money remains available longer under deadlines listed for particular projects.

The law describes how regional parks and trails grants are recommended and reported. The rules apply to the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission and counties preparing plans for regional parks and trails outside the seven-county metro area. Grants may be recommended only for projects in a plan approved by the commission. The commission must use a merit-based process that considers local financial support and the balance of grant benefits across greater Minnesota. The commission must submit its recommendations report by January 15 each year.

The law authorizes certain land sales and transfers and describes payment rules for access easements. The provisions cover specified parcels in Minnesota counties, including land bordering public water, as well as stream and native prairie access easements. Some transfers require approval or reserve public access; one private sale must be at appraised value, and the buyer must cover the state's sale costs. The city of Elgin must use its land for agreed public recreation and fishing access or the land reverts to the state. Stream and prairie access easements have payment formulas or limits set in the law.

The law directs a grant to the city of St. Paul for a public art installation celebrating Suni Lee. The grant is for a public art installation in St. Paul. The installation must be at Conway Recreation Center or, if that site is not practical, at Lake Phalen by the platform with Suni Lee's bust. The appropriation is available until June 30, 2028.