This bill introduces several modifications to the management of state lands in Minnesota, focusing on fee structures for land transfers, the addition and deauthorization of state parks, and the facilitation of private sales of surplus land. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 85.015, allowing the commissioner of natural resources to waive application fees for easements that benefit state land management interests. Additionally, it revises fee requirements in sections 94.343 and 94.3495, replacing the previous determination of value fee with a more comprehensive fee structure that encompasses various costs incurred by the commissioner.

The bill also outlines the addition of land to state parks, including Banning State Park and Father Hennepin State Park, while abolishing Hill-Annex Mine State Park and Upper Sioux Agency State Park. It permits Aitkin County to conduct private sales of tax-forfeited lands and establishes a process for the conveyance of surplus land bordering public waters in counties such as Crow Wing and Hubbard. Furthermore, it includes detailed legal descriptions of the parcels to be sold and allows the commissioner to correct any errors in these descriptions. The overarching aim is to streamline land management processes and enhance the state's park system while prioritizing land management interests.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 85.015, 94.343, 94.3495, 85.012
1st Engrossment: 85.015, 94.343, 94.3495, 85.012
2nd Engrossment: 85.015, 94.343, 94.3495