This bill seeks to clarify and enhance the regulations governing solid waste management districts in Minnesota, particularly focusing on recycling goals and the allocation of state funding. It amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes, establishing that solid waste management districts will now be defined under section 115A.641, rather than the previously referenced sections 115A.62 to 115A.72. The legislation introduces new provisions that align the recycling goals of these districts with those of the counties they encompass and mandates that state funds be distributed based on the total amount that would have been allocated to individual counties. Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for establishing and operating these districts, including the requirement for a joint resolution of intent from member counties and the preparation of a transition plan.

The bill also includes provisions for the governance of the district's board of directors, which must consist solely of elected county commissioners, and it establishes a technical advisory committee to provide expert guidance on waste management issues. It introduces general obligation bonds for acquiring and improving solid waste disposal sites, mandates audits of district financial affairs, and outlines a formal process for the termination of a district, requiring public hearings and joint resolutions from member counties. Furthermore, it updates eligibility criteria for designating solid waste management facilities and ensures that grants are distributed to districts in amounts equivalent to what would have been allocated to individual counties. The effective date for these changes is set for the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 115A.03, 115A.551, 115A.557, 115A.63, 115A.65, 115A.68, 115A.69, 115A.70, 115A.71, 115A.72, 115A.82, 473.8441