This bill aims to reinstate citizen membership on the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) board, which was eliminated in 2015. The legislation emphasizes the importance of having a citizens board that represents the diverse voices of Minnesotans, including those from rural, urban, and suburban areas. The bill introduces new provisions that outline the composition and responsibilities of the agency, including the requirement for members to reflect the state's diversity in terms of race, gender, and geography. It also mandates that specific categories of individuals, such as Tribal Nation members and those from environmental justice communities, be included in the agency's membership.

In addition to reinstating the citizens board, the bill amends existing statutes to clarify the decision-making authority of the agency and the commissioner. It specifies that the agency must make final decisions on various environmental matters, including environmental assessments and permit issuances, while also ensuring that the agency considers the rights of communities in relation to Tribal Nations. The bill also includes provisions for the agency's operational efficiency and accountability, such as reporting to the legislature on performance and recommending necessary legal changes to enhance the agency's effectiveness.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 116.02, 116.03