This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to enhance the evaluation and permitting process for large water appropriation projects, specifically those that propose a consumptive use exceeding 100 million gallons per year or 250,000 gallons per day. It introduces a new subdivision under section 103G.265 that encourages potential applicants to engage with the commissioner early in the project development process. The bill mandates that city or county employees notify the commissioner of any contacts regarding such projects, and it outlines the information that the commissioner may request to assess water source availability. Additionally, it establishes that communications related to these preapplication evaluations are considered nonpublic data until a formal application is submitted or the project is abandoned.

Furthermore, the bill adds a subdivision to section 103G.271, which requires the commissioner to ensure that water-use permits for large projects protect public health and safety, promote water conservation technologies, and address water use conflicts. It also introduces a new subdivision under section 116D.04, stipulating that the construction or expansion of data centers with an average hourly load increase of 100 megawatts or more must undergo an environmental impact statement, with the Public Utilities Commission designated as the responsible governmental unit for this review. All new provisions in the bill are effective the day following final enactment.

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