The U.S. House voted Tuesday to clear a potential obstacle to Minnesota's bid to host Expo 2023, also known as the World's Fair.

Legislation sponsored by the full Minnesota delegation was approved on a voice vote. It gives the U.S. Secretary of State the authority to rejoin the Bureau of International Expositions.

U.S. membership in the organization lapsed in 2001. Non-members don't get the same consideration for expo bids.

The U.S. hasn't hosted one since 1984. U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer said they're coveted events.

"The six-month World Expo, held every five years, can draw millions of visitors and generate billions of dollars of tourism, construction and other job-creating economic activity — all while promoting exports of U.S. products around the world," Emmer said.

Poland, Brazil and Argentina also submitted bids. The BIE's 169 member states will elect a host country in November. According to Minneapolis' Expo 2023 website, the U.S. theme is "Wellness and Well Being for All: Healthy People, Healthy Planet."

Emmer said private money would be used to pay past or future dues, and no taxpayer money could be used on a pavilion or exhibit.