Despite the difficult prevailing economic conditions, Minnesota voters approved an increase in the state's sales tax to underwrite projects that will improve wildlife habitat, water quality, parks and trails, and the arts, reports the Wildlife Management Institute.
The measure, known as the Clean Water, Wildlife, Cultural Heritage and Natural Areas Amendment, adds three eighths of 1 percent to the state's existing sales tax rate of 6.5 percent. It will go into effect on July 1, 2009, and will remain effective for 25 years. Projections are that the amendment will initially generate approximately $300 million per year. The new law also stipulates how these new funds will be allocated. Thirty-three percent will used to restore, protect and enhance fish and wildlife habitats; 33 percent will be directed at protecting and enhancing water quality in the state's lakes, rivers and streams and to protect groundwater from degradation; 14.25 percent is designated for support the state's parks and trails; and 19.75 percent will be used for the arts and cultural heritage purposes.

While the law specifies how the new funds can be used, revenues will not go directly to state agencies. The Minnesota legislature will make final funding decisions on proposed projects.

Supporters of the initiative, some of whom had been working on it for nearly 10 years, included a coalition of conservation, environmental and arts groups. The coalition raised an estimated $3.6 million to campaign for the measure. Despite opposition from a number of groups, including the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, Minnesota Farm Bureau and National Taxpayers Union, 56 percent of Minnesota voters backed the amendment. ?

Because the measure was on the ballot and is now an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution, the state legislature cannot overturn it. Minnesota now joins Missouri and Arkansas as states whose citizens have elected to dedicate significant general revenues to support management of natural resources.

Details about the amendment can be viewed at www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/features/amendment.html. (pmr)