The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 103I.621, to modify the permitting process for groundwater thermal exchange devices. It establishes that the commissioner must issue permits for the reinjection of water into the same aquifer from which it was drawn, provided the property owner requests it and pays the permit fee. The bill introduces new conditions for permit issuance, including compliance with natural resource water-use requirements and the necessity for property owners to submit a detailed permit application. Additionally, it increases the cap on permits for larger systems from ten to 100, while also stipulating that permits are invalid if a water-use permit is required but not approved.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that water-use permit requirements and penalties under chapter 103G apply to recipients of groundwater thermal exchange permits. It emphasizes the importance of protecting public health and groundwater safety, allowing for inspections by the commissioner. The effective date for these changes is set for the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 103I.621