The bill amends Minnesota Statutes regarding water appropriations permits, specifically focusing on the requirements for groundwater use permit applications. It modifies the existing provisions by removing the necessity for a new aquifer test if the applicant has previously completed one related to the proposed water use. Instead, it introduces a new requirement where the commissioner must issue a written determination within 30 days if a new aquifer test is deemed necessary, outlining the specifications for the test and confirming that the applicant is responsible for all associated costs. Additionally, the bill updates the process for evaluating applications and provides a clearer framework for preliminary approvals.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a 150-day limit for the commissioner to act on water-use permit applications, with an extension to 120 days if a new aquifer test is required. It also introduces provisions for extending the time limit if mandated by state or federal law, allowing the commissioner to extend the deadline by up to 60 days with written notice to the applicant. The bill ensures that failure to deny an application within the specified timeframe results in automatic approval, thereby streamlining the permitting process while maintaining environmental protections.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 103G.287, 103G.305