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 and to establish goals related to aggregate and other natural resources. Additionally, the bill mandates the inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions inventories and projections in land use plans, ensuring that local governments consider environmental impacts in their planning processes.

The bill also directs the Office of the Legislative Auditor to conduct a comprehensive audit of the aggregate production tax, detailing revenue collection and distribution across counties. Furthermore, it requires the commissioner of natural resources to provide recommendations for improving local government permitting processes to better protect aggregate resources. To support these initiatives, the bill appropriates funds for mapping aggregate resources, updating reclamation guidelines, and conducting an inventory of aggregate resources, ensuring that local governments have the necessary tools and information for effective land-use planning.

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