This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 116.155, subdivision 2, to expand the permissible uses of the remediation fund. It allows for the reimbursement of costs associated with PFAS contamination remediation specifically at emergency response training centers. The new legal language specifies that the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency can reimburse owners and operators of these centers for costs incurred due to PFAS contamination linked to the use of firefighting foam, provided that the use of such foam ceased by January 1, 2015. The reimbursement can cover various activities, including investigations, planning, and other necessary actions approved by the commissioner.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $1,000,000 from the environmental fund for fiscal year 2026 to support grants for state colleges or universities eligible for reimbursement under the amended statute. The commissioner is instructed to prioritize grants for institutions that have enrolled as cooperative responsible parties in the agency's remediation program. This funding aims to assist educational institutions in addressing PFAS contamination and enhancing their environmental safety measures.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 116.155