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 include a requirement for local planning authorities to not only consider but actively protect important aggregate resources and access to them in their comprehensive land use plans and zoning ordinances. Additionally, the bill mandates that land use plans incorporate elements for protecting and developing access to aggregate resources, alongside other planning priorities such as housing and environmental considerations.

Furthermore, the bill allocates funding for mapping aggregate resource potential in counties outside the metropolitan area and updating reclamation guidelines for sand and gravel pits. It also requires the commissioner of natural resources to provide recommendations for improving local government permitting processes to better protect aggregate resources and facilitate responsible reclamation of mining sites. The total appropriation for these initiatives is $950,000 for both fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with provisions for examining a regional approach to aggregate mapping for efficiency.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 84.94, 473.859