This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, section 216B.40, to exempt Tribal lands from the provisions that govern exclusive service areas for electric utilities. Specifically, it establishes that while electric utilities have the exclusive right to provide retail electric service within their assigned service areas, this exclusivity does not apply to the exterior boundaries of the 11 sovereign Indian nations in Minnesota. This change aims to recognize the sovereignty of these nations and allow for greater flexibility in electric service provision on Tribal lands.
Additionally, the bill includes a provision that specifies the effective date of this amendment, stating that it will take effect the day following its final enactment. This legislative change reflects a commitment to respecting the rights of Tribal nations while also addressing the need for electric service in these areas.