This bill aims to enhance the protection and management of aggregate resources in Minnesota by implementing recommendations from the Aggregate Resources Task Force. Key amendments to Minnesota Statutes include a requirement for local planning authorities to actively protect important aggregate resources and ensure access to them in their comprehensive land use plans. Additionally, land use plans must now include elements for protecting and developing access to aggregate resources, alongside other planning priorities such as housing and environmental considerations.

The bill also introduces new appropriations, allocating $950,000 for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to the commissioner of natural resources for mapping aggregate resource potential in additional counties, updating reclamation guidelines, and providing technical assistance to local governments. Furthermore, it allocates $250,000 in fiscal year 2026 for updating the aggregate resource inventory in the metropolitan area, focusing on projected needs and resource exhaustion timelines. The commissioner is tasked with making recommendations for local government permitting changes to better protect aggregate resources by February 1, 2026, in collaboration with stakeholders.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 84.94, 473.859