The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 473.1565, to clarify the water supply planning and reporting requirements for the Metropolitan Council. It mandates the council to conduct comprehensive planning activities that include the development of technical information for water supply decisions, periodic updates of a metropolitan area plan, and recommendations for the roles of local, regional, and state governments in water supply management. Notably, the bill replaces the term "master" with "plan" in the context of the metropolitan area plan and emphasizes the importance of conservation and interjurisdictional cooperation.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee and a Technical Advisory Committee to support the council's planning efforts. The membership of the policy advisory committee is expanded to include a Tribal representative appointed by the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council, and it specifies that members serve without term limits, with provisions for their continued service until a successor is appointed. The technical advisory committee is tasked with providing scientific and engineering expertise, and it may also include a designated Tribal representative. The council is required to report its findings and recommendations to the legislature, ensuring ongoing oversight and accountability in water supply planning.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 473.1565