This bill seeks to improve the efficiency of the environmental and resource management permit application process in Minnesota by modifying existing requirements and introducing new provisions. It mandates the Pollution Control Agency (PCA) to issue separate permits for the construction and operation of certain facilities and allows local governments to review feedlot permit applications prior to the completion of environmental reviews. The bill eliminates scoping requirements for environmental assessment worksheets for projects needing an environmental impact statement (EIS) and requires petitioners for these worksheets to reside in affected or adjoining counties. Additionally, it emphasizes the PCA's responsibility to meet permitting goals by changing "shall" to "must" and introduces new reporting requirements on permitting efficiency, including statistics on tier 2 permits.

Moreover, the bill allows the commissioner to retain fees for expedited permitting processes if completed ahead of schedule, ensuring that all fees are paid before a permit is issued. It clarifies that an EIS must be prepared for significant governmental actions and specifies that certain projects, such as ethanol and biobutanol facilities, may not require a mandatory environmental assessment worksheet if they fall below certain production thresholds. The legislation aims to streamline the permitting process while maintaining environmental protections, reflecting a balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship. Additional provisions include a requirement for the PCA to seek federal approval for state implementation plan revisions and an appropriation for the Minnesota Business First Stop program.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 15.99, 116.03, 116.07, 116D.04, 116J.035
1st Engrossment: 116.03, 116.07, 116D.04