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HF1592 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Provisions modified and definition for calcareous fens required, rulemaking required, and report required.

Related bill: SF979

AI Generated Summary

The bill proposes modifications to Minnesota's laws regarding calcareous fens, which are rare and sensitive wetland ecosystems.

Key Provisions:

  1. Calcareous Fen Protection:

    • The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) commissioner may not fill, drain, or degrade a calcareous fen unless an approved management plan determines that some alteration is necessary or if temporary water reductions are allowed on a seasonal basis.

  2. Permit Process Changes:

    • The commissioner cannot deny a permit or prohibit an action based on potential effects on a calcareous fen without first providing a detailed report.
    • The report must include:
      • A description of the specific calcareous fen in question.
      • An explanation of its ecological benefits.
      • A description of the potential negative effects of the proposed action.

  3. Rulemaking Requirement:

    • The commissioner must adopt rules to define a calcareous fen.

  4. Legislative Report:

    • By December 1, 2025, the commissioner must submit a report to the legislature that includes:
      • A proposed definition of "calcareous fen" with scientific justification.
      • A scientific explanation of ecological benefits compared to other wetlands.
      • A summary of permit denials related to calcareous fens over the past 10 years.

This bill strengthens transparency and scientific justification in calcareous fen management while requiring a clear legal definition for these wetland types.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
February 25, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toEnvironment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Requires a report detailing the potential effects and ecological benefits of calcareous fens before a permit can be denied."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill modifies provisions related to calcareous fens under section 103G.223.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "103G.223"
  }
]

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