The "Greenhouse Gas Pollution Superfund Act" establishes a cost-recovery program in Minnesota aimed at addressing greenhouse gas emissions. It creates a dedicated account for payments from responsible parties, which will fund climate change adaptation projects. Key definitions are provided, including "responsible party," "covered greenhouse gas emissions," and "disadvantaged community," with a mandate that at least 40% of disbursements benefit disadvantaged communities. The Pollution Control Agency's commissioner is responsible for determining liability, imposing cost-recovery demands, and disbursing funds for eligible projects. Additionally, the state auditor is required to assess the costs incurred by the state due to these emissions and report findings every four years.
The bill also introduces provisions for fiscal oversight, allowing the state auditor to conduct periodic audits of the program's account and expenditures, categorizing these audits as reasonable administrative expenses to enhance transparency. Appropriations for fiscal year 2027 are included, allocating funds from the general fund to the Pollution Control Agency and the state auditor for staffing, administrative support, and hiring necessary consultants. This financial backing is intended to ensure effective implementation and oversight of the greenhouse gas pollution recovery efforts, holding fossil fuel businesses accountable while promoting climate resilience.