1.1 	A bill for an act
1.2 	relating to natural resources; prohibiting the denial of certain water use permits;
1.3 	amending Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.287, subdivision 3.
1.4 	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.5 	Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.287, subdivision 3, is amended to 
1.6 	read:
1.7 		Subd. 3.Protection of groundwater supplies. (a) The commissioner may establish 
1.8 	water appropriation limits to protect groundwater resources. When establishing water 
1.9 	appropriation limits to protect groundwater resources, the commissioner must consider 
1.10 	the sustainability of the groundwater resource, including the current and projected water 
1.11 	levels, water quality, whether the use protects ecosystems, and the ability of future 
1.12 	generations to meet their own needs.
1.13 	(b) Notwithstanding any other law or rule to the contrary, the commissioner shall 
1.14 	not deny the renewal of a water use permit to a brewer, as defined in section 340A.101, 
1.15 	subdivision 4, to appropriate groundwater for use in brewing malt liquor, as defined in 
1.16 	section 340A.101, subdivision 16, and making nonalcoholic specialty drinks.