This bill aims to enhance the management and regulation of infectious or pathological waste in Minnesota by introducing several key provisions. It requires operators of solid waste management facilities that are not approved to accept such waste to notify the relevant agency upon receipt of suspected infectious or pathological waste. Additionally, the bill mandates unannounced inspections of waste generators by the commissioner, in coordination with the commissioner of health, to ensure compliance with existing management plans. Waste generators are also required to conduct annual internal audits and make these available for review.

Furthermore, the bill establishes significant financial penalties for generators who unlawfully arrange for the transport of infectious or pathological waste to unapproved facilities, with fines escalating for repeated violations. It stipulates that 50% of the collected fines will be remitted to the facility that received the waste, while the remainder will go to the environmental fund. The bill also includes an appropriation for the development of training materials on proper waste management. All provisions are set to take effect the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 116.78, 116.79, 116.83
1st Engrossment: 116.78, 116.79, 116.83