This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 84.523, to modify mining restrictions within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) and the Rainy River headwaters. It introduces new definitions, including "Wilderness" as designated by Public Law 95-495 and defines the "Rainy River headwaters" based on specific Minnesota Department of Natural Resources maps. The bill emphasizes the intent to maintain a primarily wilderness management policy for state lands and waters in the BWCA, ensuring the area remains free from commercial activities and artificial developments.

The bill also outlines prohibitions on mining and peat harvesting in the BWCA and Rainy River headwaters, requiring prior legislative approval in cases of national emergency declared by Congress. It specifies that no state-owned or administered land may be leased for mineral exploration or mining without this approval, although mining for certain materials like taconite or iron ore may be permitted in the Rainy River headwaters if deemed non-detrimental to the BWCA. Additionally, the bill establishes a process for investigating the necessity of resource exploitation during national emergencies, ensuring that reasonable alternatives are considered before permits for development are issued.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 84.523