Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Coalition
Region
MinnesotaTimeline
2022 - presentMore than three decades ago, 77% of Minnesotans voted in favor of using Minnesota State Lottery funds to establish the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF). Since then, the trust has invested more than $700 million to help restore and protect the environment. We are approaching the end of the constitutional dedication, which is set to expire in 2025.
Environmental Initiative is working alongside BIPOC environmental justice leaders and mainstream environmental groups to:
- Incorporate environmental justice as a core to the work of the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund.
- Propose new, more equitable governance models for administration and distribution of lottery funds.
- Persuade the Minnesota Legislature to put reauthorization of the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund on the ballot for the 2024 election.
The ENRTF Coalition is a group of more than 20 organizations working to extend the life of this important funding source. Environmental Initiative is a member of the coalition convened by Conservation Minnesota.
Project Contacts
Mike Harley and Sam Grant, Rainbow Research co-convene a sub-group of the ENRTF Coalition focused on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Contact them to learn more or to find ways to help during the legislative session.
