The bill seeks to improve the efficiency of the environmental and resource management permit application process in Minnesota by establishing specific timelines for the issuance of tier 1 and tier 2 permits by the Pollution Control Agency (PCA). It mandates that tier 1 permits be issued or denied within 90 days and tier 2 permits within 150 days, along with reporting requirements to ensure compliance with these timelines. Key provisions include requiring petitioners for environmental assessment worksheets to reside in affected or adjoining counties, allowing local governments to review feedlot permit applications prior to the completion of environmental reviews, and eliminating certain scoping requirements for projects needing an environmental impact statement (EIS). The PCA is also required to issue separate permits for the construction and operation of certain facilities to minimize delays.

Additionally, the bill introduces amendments that enhance the permitting process, such as allowing the commissioner to retain fees for expedited permitting services and ensuring that no permit is issued until all fees are paid in full. It clarifies that an EIS must be prepared for significant governmental actions, detailing environmental impacts and alternatives, while establishing clearer timelines for environmental assessments and permit issuance. The legislation also allows local governments to review feedlot permit applications even if an environmental review is pending, eliminates the requirement for an environmental assessment worksheet for certain projects, and sets a deadline for the scoping process to be completed within 280 days. Overall, the bill aims to balance economic growth with environmental protection, modernizing regulatory systems and ensuring a transparent permitting process.

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