Purpose of the Bill

This bill seeks to amend certain agricultural regulations in Minnesota, focusing on improving the handling, storage, and disposal of agricultural waste, including fertilizer and sewage sludge. The goal is to enhance regulatory compliance, manage environmental impacts, and ensure proper documentation of waste transfers.

Main Provisions

• Delegation of Duties: The bill allows the Commissioner of Agriculture to delegate duties related to the chapter to specific employees or agents within the Department of Agriculture, or to cities of the first class.

• Certification of Compliance: Certification for persons or sites handling ammonia or anhydrous ammonia fertilizers can be issued if they meet regulatory compliance. Certification is valid for up to three years unless a different period is determined for public safety reasons.

• PFAS Regulation: The Department of Agriculture is designated as the leading agency for regulating fertilizers containing Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). A streamlined process reduces redundancy in data submission to state agencies.

• Sewage Sludge Records: The bill mandates record retention for sewage sludge transfers, including transaction dates, amounts, and involved parties. These records must be available to the commissioner upon request.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Sewage Sludge Regulation: Previously, sewage sludge transferred without charge was exempt from various requirements. Now, it must comply with labeling and record-keeping rules.

• Fertilizer and Waste Restrictions: Clear guidelines are enforced on how fertilizers and related equipment must be stored, handled, and disposed of, aiming to prevent harm to humans, wildlife, and the environment. This includes prohibiting open burning of fertilizers and requiring immediate containment and proper disposal when such materials are released on impervious surfaces.

• Prohibitions on Fertilizer Application to Impervious Surfaces: New rules prohibit applying fertilizers, animal waste, or sewage sludge to surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, and other areas that prevent water from soaking into the soil.

Relevant Terms

• Agriculture waste
• Fertilizer compliance
• Sewage sludge records
• PFAS regulation
• Environmental protection
• Fertilizer handling and disposal
• Impervious surface prohibition