SF3423

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to update the requirements for obtaining water use permits in Minnesota, intending to ensure sustainable water usage while protecting ecosystems and future water needs.

Main Provisions

• Application Completeness: Changes stipulate that groundwater appropriation permit applications are incomplete without providing detailed geological, hydrogeological, and water quality data.
• Aquifer Testing: The bill requires aquifer tests to assess impacts on other water resources. Applicants are responsible for costs associated with these tests, including monitoring and data collection before, during, and after tests.
• Commissioner's Role: The commissioner may waive specific requirements if existing application details suffice in predicting sustainable and eco-friendly water usage. They are also required to evaluate proposed wells needing permits.
• Denial and Restrictions: If the commissioner denies or restricts a permit, they must present all data used in the decision-making process to the applicant.

Significant Changes

• Permit Processing Time: Introduces a requirement to act on completed permit applications within 150 days, or within 120 days post-aquifer test results, if such tests are deemed necessary.
• Extensions for Review Periods: Allows extensions of the application review period due to legislation, federal laws, or other processes, adding a maximum of 60 days after completing external requirements. Applicants can also request an extension.

Relevant Terms

water appropriation, groundwater use, aquifer testing, sustaining water usage, environment, water quality, hydrogeology, ecosystems, permit application, commissioner approval.