Senator Andrew Lang (R–Olivia) has introduced legislation aimed at improving affordability for Minnesota families by prohibiting unfunded mandates that drive up property taxes.

Senate File 4954 would place a constitutional amendment on the ballot this November that would prohibit the State of Minnesota from imposing unfunded mandates on cities, counties, school districts, and other local governments.

“Minnesota taxpayers are being crushed by the burden of unfunded mandates passed down from the state,” said Sen. Lang. “Across Minnesota, counties and local governments are being forced to raise property taxes at record rates. Banning unfunded mandates is a direct solution to the affordability crisis Minnesotans are facing every day.”

The legislation would require that if the state mandates a new program, service, or regulation on local governments, the state must fully fund it. If the state does not provide the necessary funding, the mandate would be unenforceable.

If approved by the Legislature, the constitutional amendment would appear on the November 2026 ballot. If passed by voters, it would take effect on January 1, 2027.