This bill aims 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 that the Pollution Control Agency (PCA) must issue or deny tier 1 permits within 90 days and tier 2 permits within 150 days of application submission. The bill also allows local governments to review feedlot permit applications before the completion of environmental reviews and eliminates the requirement for scoping environmental assessment worksheets for projects needing an environmental impact statement (EIS). Additionally, it requires petitioners for environmental assessment worksheets to reside in the affected or adjoining counties.

Key amendments include the PCA's obligation to report on permit processing efficiency, detailing reasons for delays, and introducing a new definition for "permit professional." The bill allows for expedited permitting under certain conditions, requiring applicants to agree to estimated timelines and costs. It also specifies that the commissioner may retain fees if permitting is completed ahead of schedule and must not issue a permit until all fees are paid in full. Furthermore, it clarifies that an EIS must be prepared for significant governmental actions and establishes that certain projects, like expansions of ethanol and biobutanol facilities, may not require a mandatory environmental assessment worksheet unless they exceed specific thresholds. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the permitting process while ensuring compliance with environmental standards and balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

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