This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to enhance the evaluation and permitting process for projects that require large water appropriations. It introduces a new subdivision to section 103G.265, which mandates a preapplication evaluation for projects proposing a consumptive use exceeding 100 million gallons per year or 250,000 gallons per day. The bill encourages potential applicants to engage with the commissioner early in the project development process to ensure compatibility with existing water users and to maintain water allocation priorities. It also requires city or county employees to notify the commissioner of any project inquiries and outlines the information that the commissioner may request to assess water availability.

Additionally, the bill amends section 103G.271 to establish conditions for issuing water-use permits, ensuring that public health and safety are protected, and that water conservation technologies are considered. Furthermore, it adds a subdivision to section 116D.04, requiring an environmental impact statement for the construction or expansion of data centers with an average hourly load increase of 100 megawatts or more, with the Public Utilities Commission designated as the responsible governmental unit for this review. All new provisions are effective the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 103G.265, 103G.271, 116D.04