This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to impose a moratorium on environmental reviews and permits for proposed nonferrous sulfide ore projects unless certain conditions are satisfied. Specifically, both the commissioner of natural resources and the commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency must confirm, using peer-reviewed scientific data, that a similar mine has operated commercially for at least ten years without causing environmental damage. The burden of proof lies with the project applicant to demonstrate compliance with these requirements. The bill also mandates public notice and comment periods for proposed determinations, and if opposing evidence is presented, a contested case hearing is required.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions related to nonferrous sulfide ore and sets forth requirements for the renewal and amendment of mining permits, stipulating that permits must be reissued every ten years and that modifications will be treated as substantial changes necessitating a new application. It also expands the responsibilities of governmental subdivisions to submit specific information to the commissioner every odd-numbered year and ensures that the commissioner provides technical assistance upon request. The bill establishes an effective date for its provisions, which will apply to proposed projects that have begun but not completed their environmental review by that date, as well as to any related permits granted, renewed, modified, or amended thereafter.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 93.001, 115.03