This bill addresses the management and responsibilities associated with abandoned pipelines in Minnesota. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 216G.02, by adding new subdivisions that define key terms such as "Commissioner" and "Pipeline abandonment." The bill establishes a framework for pipeline owners, requiring them to notify landowners at least 60 days before ceasing operations and to remove abandoned infrastructure within specified timeframes. It also outlines the responsibilities of pipeline owners regarding land restoration and the removal of invasive species, as well as the process for landowners to request the removal or retention of abandoned pipelines.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, [216G.095], detailing the responsibilities of pipeline owners during abandonment, including the need for a comprehensive pipeline abandonment plan that must be approved by the Commissioner of Public Safety. This plan must include stakeholder consultation, a detailed description of the pipeline and its surroundings, and a post-abandonment monitoring schedule. The bill emphasizes the importance of environmental protection and safety during the abandonment process, ensuring that pipeline owners are held accountable for any environmental impacts resulting from their operations.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216G.02