Bill > SF570

This bill aims to improve the environmental permitting process in Minnesota by modifying several key provisions related to permit efficiency, application processes, and environmental reviews. The bill requires the Pollution Control Agency to establish management systems to issue tier 1 and tier 2 permits within specific timeframes (90 and 150 days, respectively) and mandates an annual detailed permitting efficiency report with comprehensive statistics and explanations for delays. The agency must now allow electronic permit submissions, provide clear notifications about application completeness, and offer more transparent communication with applicants. The bill also authorizes the agency to issue separate construction and operation permits for certain facilities, streamlines environmental review processes by eliminating redundant assessment worksheet requirements for projects already requiring environmental impact statements, and allows local governments to begin reviewing certain permit applications before environmental review is complete. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for expedited permitting, where applicants can request faster processing by agreeing to reimburse the agency for additional staff time, and establishes new rules for petitioning environmental assessments. The legislation's intent is to create a more predictable, transparent, and efficient permitting system that supports economic growth while maintaining environmental protections.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF0570&ssn=0&y=2025