Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to establish a rebate program for replacing time-based ion exchange water softeners with more efficient demand-based ion exchange water softeners. The goal is to encourage the use of more water-efficient systems, which can improve environmental outcomes and reduce salt use.

Main Provisions

• Rebate Program Establishment: A program is set up to provide a $200 rebate for owners or lessees of residential or commercial buildings who replace their time-based water softeners with demand-based systems.
• Eligible Replacements: To be eligible, the new water softener must:
  • Soften water from above 10 U.S. grains per gallon to below 1 grain per gallon.
  • Have a salt efficiency of over 3,500 grains per pound of salt.
  • Be installed by a licensed contractor within Minnesota between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2027.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• This bill introduces a financial incentive for switching to a more efficient water softening technology, which is not currently mandated.
• The program involves issuing rebates, which require collaboration between the property owner and licensed contractors.

Additional Requirements

• Rebate Application: Must include detailed specifications about both the replaced and new equipment, the programming of the new system, and an estimate of its annual salt use.
• Contractor Certification: Contractors must certify that the installation and programming of the new system comply with program requirements.
• Application Limits: Each contractor can participate in up to 30 rebate applications throughout the life of the program.

Appropriation of Funds

• A one-time appropriation from the general fund is provided for fiscal year 2026 to cover the rebates, available until June 30, 2028.

Relevant Terms

• Time-based ion exchange water softener
• Demand-based ion exchange water softener
• Rebate
• Salt efficiency
• Water hardness
• Pollution Control Agency