ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Thursday, April 10, the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee passed their 2026-27 budget out of Committee, led by Chair Matt Klein (DFL – Mendota Heights).
“I am proud to continue our work protecting consumer rights in Minnesota and supporting the important work of the Commerce Department in business, banking, health insurance and other areas,” said Senator Matt Klein. “This bill will empower residents of homeowner’s associations, protect Minnesotan’s investments, take dangerous substances off retail shelves, make our entertainment venues safer.”
The legislation contains the following consumer protection provisions:
- Free Water at Concert Venues: Requires entertainment venues to make water freely available to anyone attending an event to prevent dehydration, heatstroke, and other health issues at events. Access to water can be difficult and expensive, especially during long performances in packed, hot venues.
- Prohibiting Nitrous Oxide: Prohibits the retail sale of nitrous oxide canisters to address the harmful and lasting effects of whippet abuse on our young people. These products are targeted at young people through flavoring and quantities ideal for huffing, and the legislation will close the loophole that allows them to be sold in retail stores.
- Ombudsperson for Homeowners Associations: Establishes an ombudsperson and registry for HOAs within the Department of Commerceto ensure fairness and transparency in governance of these communities and help residents navigate regulations and resolve disputes with associations.
- Investment broker fraud protections: Providesresources to support two additional auditors to improve oversight of Minnesotan’s assets invested through broker dealers and protect consumers from harm.
Senate File 2216 passed the Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee on a voice vote and was referred to Finance Committee.
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