1.1 	A bill for an act
1.2 	relating to energy; requiring high-voltage transmission line route permit applicants 
1.3 	to consult with the commissioner of natural resources; proposing coding for new 
1.4 	law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 216I.
1.5 	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.6 	Section 1. [216I.051] ROUTE PERMITS IN THE KARST REGION OF THE STATE.
1.7 	An applicant for a high-voltage transmission line route permit under section 216I.05 
1.8 	that includes a proposed route crossing over karst geology, or areas of the state where the 
1.9 	commissioner of natural resources indicates that karst is likely to develop, must consult 
1.10 	with the commissioner of natural resources after submission of the permit application to 
1.11 	ensure that karst inventories, mapping, and other information relevant to the unique 
1.12 	considerations of construction in karst areas are incorporated into project planning. Where 
1.13 	appropriate, the commissioner may require the applicant to do some or all of the following 
1.14 	to evaluate subsurface conditions and inform final design:
1.15 	(1) undertake a preconstruction geotechnical investigation; or
1.16 	(2) complete a karst survey.