HF647 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Mt. Simon-Hinckley aquifer water appropriations authorized.
Related bill: SF840
AI Generated Summary
This legislative bill, authored by Schultz and Gordon, proposes changes to how water can be appropriated from the Mt. Simon-Hinckley aquifer in Minnesota. Specifically, the bill outlines that:
New Permits for Potable Water Use: The bill allows the issuance of new water use permits to take water from the Mt. Simon-Hinckley aquifer for drinking purposes only if:
- No other reasonable water sources are available.
- The water-use permit includes a water conservation plan that utilizes the best available technology and practices.
- The permit complies with existing water-related laws and regulations.
New Permits for Non-Potable Water Use: The bill also allows issuing new permits for non-drinking purposes, but only if:
- The permit meets the same strict criteria as those for potable water.
- The water appropriation is proposed outside of designated metropolitan counties.
Overall, this bill aims to regulate the appropriation of water from the Mt. Simon-Hinckley aquifer more strictly, prioritizing sustainable and essential uses, particularly in ensuring clean drinking water. It also encourages the adoption of advanced water conservation practices.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| February 13, 2025 | House | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Includes consideration criteria for issuing permits related to potable water use."
],
"removed": [
"No new removal mentioned."
],
"summary": "This bill modifies water appropriation rules specifically related to the Mt. Simon-Hinckley aquifer under section 103G.271 subdivision 4a.",
"modified": [
"Updates applicability of sections 103G.255 to 103G.299 and 103G.301 to 103G.111 in relation to water use permits."
]
},
"citation": "103G.271 subdivision 4a"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Clarifies that nonpotable use appropriations must be outside a metropolitan county as defined."
],
"removed": [
"No previously existing conditions removed."
],
"summary": "This bill references section 473.121 subdivision 4 to clarify definitions related to metropolitan counties, relevant for nonpotable water use appropriations.",
"modified": [
"Adjusts conditions for issuing nonpotable water use permits linked to specific geographic definitions."
]
},
"citation": "473.121 subdivision 4"
}
]