Voters Approve Sales Tax Increase and Create Outdoor Heritage Fund

In November 2008, the voters of Minnesota approved a 3/8% increase in the state sales tax that is constitutionally dedicated to "fish and wildlife habitat, clean water, parks, trails, the arts and cultural heritage." The portion of the new tax dedicated to fish and wildlife habitat is expected to raise about $55 million annually for the Outdoor Heritage Fund.

The Minnesota Legislature created the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (L-SOHC) to make recommendations to the Legislature annually on how the funds should be used. The L-SOHC is made up of 12 members, including 4 legislators and 8 public members appointed by the legislative bodies and the governor.

For information about the work of the L-SOHC, go to www.lsohc.leg.mn.