Senate File No. 876 is a legislative bill introduced in Minnesota to enhance the processes involved in environmental review and permitting for metallic mineral mining projects. The main goals of this bill are to increase the efficiency, transparency, accountability, and coordination of these processes. Key components of the bill include:

1. Definitions and Applicability: The bill sets out specific definitions such as "Commissioner" referring to the Commissioner of Natural Resources, and "Covered mining project" which includes new proposals and modifications needing environmental assessments or statements.

2. Environmental and Permitting Review Dashboard: A new online tool, called the Dashboard, will be created. This will allow state and federal agencies, project proposers, and the public to track and access documents relevant to environmental reviews and permits for mining projects.

3. Coordinated Project Plan: Within 60 days of a project being added to the Dashboard, a coordinated plan should be developed. This plan involves scheduling and coordination details for completing necessary reviews and permits, and it must be updated quarterly.

4. Synchronization and Communication: The bill emphasizes synchronizing state environmental processes with those at the federal, local, or Tribal levels to ensure efficient project completion. It also encourages early communication between project proposers and relevant agencies to address potential concerns and information needs upfront.

5. Best Practices and Annual Reporting: By July 2026, and biennially thereafter, recommended best practices for environmental reviews and permitting of mining projects will be issued. These aim to enhance engagement, improve decision timelines, and reduce administrative burdens. Additionally, an annual report will be provided to legislative committees to describe progress and assess the performance of agencies in making improvements.

This bill aims to streamline and clarify the environmental review and permitting process for metallic mineral mining projects in Minnesota, making the process more open, coordinated, and efficient for all parties involved.