This bill aims to enhance the management and protection of aggregate resources in Minnesota by amending existing statutes and implementing recommendations from the Aggregate Resources Task Force. Key amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 473.859, subdivision 2, include the requirement for land use plans to assess the impact of land use designations on access to aggregate resources, as well as to incorporate goals related to transportation infrastructure, habitat preservation, and agricultural land use. Additionally, the bill mandates that land use plans include an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle miles traveled within local jurisdictions.

The bill also establishes several new initiatives, including a program audit of the aggregate production tax by the Office of the Legislative Auditor, which will evaluate revenue collection and distribution by counties. Furthermore, it directs the commissioner of natural resources to provide recommendations for improving local government permitting processes to better protect aggregate resources. The bill appropriates funds for mapping aggregate resources, updating reclamation guidelines, and conducting an aggregate resource inventory, with specific allocations of $950,000 for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, and $250,000 for fiscal year 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 84.94, 473.859
1st Engrossment: 473.859