Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to encourage the use of rainwater and stormwater for certain outdoor activities in the state of Minnesota. It aims to promote environmental sustainability by reducing the reliance on treated water for purposes where there is little to no risk of human or animal consumption.

Main Provisions

• Allowed Uses: The bill mandates that state agencies, political subdivisions, joint powers organizations, and special purpose government units must permit the use of untreated rainwater or stormwater for specific outdoor uses.
• Conditions: The use of untreated rainwater or stormwater is allowed only when the chance of it being consumed or coming into contact with humans or animals is minimal or nonexistent.
• Prohibited Uses: The bill specifies that untreated water cannot be used for:
  • Drinking purposes
  • Swimming or any activities involving immersion
  • Agricultural activities that produce food crops for human or livestock consumption

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill proposes a new regulation under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 115, which would formally allow the use of untreated rainwater and stormwater for outdoor purposes, whereas previously this may not have been explicitly permitted or regulated.

Relevant Terms

rainwater, stormwater, untreated water, outdoor use, consumption, immersion, environmental sustainability, Minnesota Statutes chapter 115