Committee refers $800,000 Melissa Hortman memorial designation to State Government committee

The House Capital Investment Committee on March 24 voted to refer House File 4470 — an $800,000 designation to implement an updated Capitol Mall design framework for a Melissa Hortman memorial — to the State Government Finance and Policy Committee.

Chair Cleburne (S3), sponsor of the measure, told the committee: "House file 44 70 is an appropriation for the Melissa Hortman Memorial." He said the appropriation would designate money already allocated in 2023, extend the use of the funds through June 30, 2029, and allow the Capital Area Architecture and Planning Board to select an artist through a competitive process with participation from Hortman’s immediate family.

Several members voiced support for recognizing the former speaker’s service. Chair Lee (S1) renewed the motion to refer the bill and the committee approved it by voice vote.

The bill text, as explained to the committee, stipulates that any unspent funds would return to the Capitol Mall design framework pool and be available for additional landscaping elements. The committee did not adopt any substantive amendments to the bill at the hearing; the referral advances the measure to the State Government Finance and Policy Committee for further consideration.

What happens next: House File 4470 will be considered by the State Government Finance and Policy Committee, where staff and members will examine project design, schedule and any implementation details prior to any final appropriation or legislative enactment.