Bill > HF1197

This bill establishes strict disclosure and eligibility requirements for nonferrous sulfide ore mining projects in Minnesota. The legislation requires any person or business seeking environmental review or mining permits to submit a comprehensive disclosure statement detailing their company's background, ownership, leadership, and legal history. Specifically, applicants must reveal any environmental law violations, civil sanctions, bribery charges, or regulatory infractions committed by the company, its officers, directors, or key employees within the past 15 years. If an applicant or its related entities have been charged with significant environmental violations, including fines exceeding $1,000,000 or repeated safety infractions, they will be prohibited from obtaining mining permits or undergoing environmental review. The bill empowers state commissioners to review these disclosure statements and deny permits to "bad actors" who have demonstrated a pattern of environmental or regulatory misconduct. The legislation applies to ongoing and future mining projects, ensuring that companies with problematic environmental records are prevented from obtaining mining rights in Minnesota. This bill aims to protect public health, safety, and the environment by implementing rigorous screening mechanisms for potential mining ventures.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1197&ssn=0&y=2025