This bill aims to enhance environmental protections related to nonferrous sulfide ore mining in Minnesota by prohibiting environmental reviews and the issuance of permits, licenses, or leases to individuals or entities deemed "bad actors." It introduces a new section in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 93, which requires applicants for mining-related permits to submit a detailed disclosure statement. This statement must include information about the applicant's identity, any relevant legal violations or sanctions in the past 15 years, and other details that may affect their reliability and character.

The bill outlines specific criteria that would classify an applicant as a bad actor, including past charges or convictions related to environmental laws, significant fines for noncompliance, and connections to businesses with similar violations. It mandates that the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the commissioner must assess these disclosures within six months and prohibits them from proceeding with environmental reviews or issuing permits if the applicant fails to meet the established standards. The provisions of this bill are effective immediately upon enactment and apply to ongoing environmental reviews and permits issued after the effective date.