The bill modifies existing agricultural waste handling regulations in Minnesota, specifically focusing on the management of sewage sludge and the regulation of fertilizers containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Key amendments include the delegation of duties to designated employees or agents of the Department of Agriculture or cities of the first class, and the introduction of a requirement for record retention regarding sewage sludge transfers. Any party involved in the transfer of sewage sludge must maintain records of the transaction, which must be made available to the commissioner upon request. Additionally, the bill clarifies that agriculture is the lead agency for regulating fertilizers containing PFAS, allowing for streamlined data sharing among state agencies.

Further changes include the prohibition of applying fertilizers, animal waste, or sewage sludge to impervious surfaces, and the specification that open burning of fertilizers is considered to have an unreasonable adverse effect on the environment. The bill also extends the certification of compliance for regulatory inspections to three years, with the possibility of a different time period determined by the commissioner for public safety reasons. Overall, the bill aims to enhance environmental protection and regulatory compliance in agricultural practices related to waste handling and fertilizer use.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 18C.111, 18C.135, 18C.201, 18C.61