HF 976

3rd Engrossment - 88th Legislature (2013 - 2014) Posted on 04/25/2013 11:07am

A bill for an act
relating to state government; appropriating money for environment, natural
resources, and agriculture; modifying and providing for certain fees; modifying
and providing for disposition of certain revenue; creating accounts; modifying
payment of certain costs; modifying grant programs; providing for agricultural
water quality certification; modifying Minnesota Noxious Weed Law; modifying
pesticide control; modifying animal waste technician provisions; modifying
certain renewable energy and biofuel provisions; modifying bonding requirements
for grain buyers and grain storage; making technical changes; modifying certain
permit requirements; providing for federal law compliance; providing for certain
easements; establishing pollinator habitat program; modifying state trails;
modifying all-terrain vehicle operating provisions; modifying State Timber
Act; modifying water use requirements; modifying certain park boundaries;
modifying reporting requirements; modifying Petroleum Tank Release Cleanup
Act; providing for silica sand mining model standards and technical assistance;
establishing criteria for wastewater treatment system projects; providing for
wastewater laboratory certification; providing for product stewardship programs;
modifying Minnesota Power Plant Siting Act; providing for sanitary districts;
requiring groundwater sustainability recommendations; requiring rulemaking;
amending Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 17.03, subdivision 3; 17.1015;
17.118, subdivision 2; 18.77, subdivisions 3, 4, 10, 12; 18.78, subdivision 3;
18.79, subdivisions 6, 13; 18.82, subdivision 1; 18.91, subdivisions 1, 2; 18B.01,
by adding a subdivision; 18B.065, subdivision 2a; 18B.07, subdivisions 4, 5, 7;
18B.26, subdivision 3; 18B.305; 18B.316, subdivisions 1, 3, 4, 8, 9; 18B.37,
subdivision 4; 18C.430; 18C.433, subdivision 1; 31.94; 41A.10, subdivision 2,
by adding a subdivision; 41A.105, subdivisions 1a, 3, 5; 41A.12, by adding a
subdivision; 41B.04, subdivision 9; 41D.01, subdivision 4; 84.027, by adding a
subdivision; 84.82, by adding a subdivision; 84.922, by adding a subdivision;
84.9256, subdivision 1; 84.928, subdivision 1; 84D.108, subdivision 2; 85.015,
subdivision 13; 85.052, subdivision 6; 85.054, by adding a subdivision; 85.055,
subdivisions 1, 2; 85.42; 89.0385; 89.17; 90.01, subdivisions 4, 5, 6, 8, 11;
90.031, subdivision 4; 90.041, subdivisions 2, 5, 6, 9, by adding subdivisions;
90.045; 90.061, subdivision 8; 90.101, subdivision 1; 90.121; 90.145; 90.151,
subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9; 90.161; 90.162; 90.171; 90.181, subdivision 2;
90.191, subdivision 1; 90.193; 90.195; 90.201, subdivision 2a; 90.211; 90.221;
90.252, subdivision 1; 90.301, subdivisions 2, 4; 90.41, subdivision 1; 92.50;
93.17, subdivision 1; 93.1925, subdivision 2; 93.25, subdivision 2; 93.285,
subdivision 3; 93.46, by adding a subdivision; 93.481, subdivisions 3, 5, by
adding subdivisions; 93.482; 97A.401, subdivision 3; 103G.265, subdivisions
2, 3; 103G.271, subdivisions 1, 4, 6; 103G.282; 103G.287, subdivisions 1,
4, 5; 103G.615, subdivision 2; 103I.205, subdivision 1; 103I.601, by adding
a subdivision; 114D.50, subdivision 4; 115A.1320, subdivision 1; 115B.20,
subdivision 6; 115B.28, subdivision 1; 115C.02, subdivision 4; 115C.08,
subdivision 4, by adding a subdivision; 115D.10; 116.48, subdivision 6; 116C.03,
subdivisions 2, 4, 5; 116D.04, by adding a subdivision; 116J.437, subdivision
1; 168.1296, subdivision 1; 216E.12, subdivision 4; 223.17, by adding a
subdivision; 232.22, by adding a subdivision; 239.051, by adding subdivisions;
239.791, subdivisions 1, 2a, 2b; 239.7911; 275.066; 296A.01, subdivision 19, by
adding a subdivision; 473.846; Laws 2012, chapter 249, section 11; proposing
coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 17; 18; 84; 90; 93; 115;
115A; 116C; proposing coding for new law as Minnesota Statutes, chapter 442A;
repealing Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 18.91, subdivisions 3, 5; 18B.07,
subdivision 6; 90.163; 90.173; 90.41, subdivision 2; 103G.265, subdivision 2a;
115.18, subdivisions 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10; 115.19; 115.20; 115.21; 115.22;
115.23; 115.24; 115.25; 115.26; 115.27; 115.28; 115.29; 115.30; 115.31; 115.32;
115.33; 115.34; 115.35; 115.36; 115.37; 239.791, subdivision 1a; Minnesota
Rules, parts 7021.0010, subparts 1, 2, 4, 5; 7021.0020; 7021.0030; 7021.0040;
7021.0050, subpart 5; 9210.0300; 9210.0310; 9210.0320; 9210.0330; 9210.0340;
9210.0350; 9210.0360; 9210.0370; 9210.0380; 9220.0530, subpart 6.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

ARTICLE 1

AGRICULTURE APPROPRIATIONS

Section 1. new text begin SUMMARY OF APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The amounts shown in this section summarize direct appropriations, by fund, made
in this article.
new text end

		new text begin 2014 new text end		new text begin 2015 new text end		new text begin Total new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 39,504,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 39,646,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 79,150,000 new text end
new text begin Agricultural new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 1,240,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 1,240,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 2,480,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 388,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 388,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 776,000 new text end
new text begin Total new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 41,132,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 41,274,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 82,406,000 new text end

Sec. 2. new text begin AGRICULTURE APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are appropriated to the
agencies and for the purposes specified in this article. The appropriations are from the
general fund, or another named fund, and are available for the fiscal years indicated
for each purpose. The figures "2014" and "2015" used in this article mean that the
appropriations listed under them are available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, or
June 30, 2015, respectively. "The first year" is fiscal year 2014. "The second year" is fiscal
year 2015. "The biennium" is fiscal years 2014 and 2015.
new text end

			new text begin APPROPRIATIONS new text end
			new text begin Available for the Year new text end
			new text begin Ending June 30 new text end
				new text begin 2014 new text end		new text begin 2015 new text end

Sec. 3. new text begin DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end new text begin Total Appropriation new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 33,620,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 33,730,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 31,992,000 new text end	new text begin 32,102,000 new text end
new text begin Agricultural new text end	new text begin 1,240,000 new text end	new text begin 1,240,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin 388,000 new text end	new text begin 388,000 new text end

new text begin The amounts that may be spent for each
purpose are specified in the following
subdivisions.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end new text begin Protection Services new text end

new text begin 12,883,000 new text end

new text begin 12,883,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 12,055,000 new text end	new text begin 12,055,000 new text end
new text begin Agricultural new text end	new text begin 440,000 new text end	new text begin 440,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin 388,000 new text end	new text begin 388,000 new text end

new text begin $388,000 the first year and $388,000 the
second year are from the remediation fund
for administrative funding for the voluntary
cleanup program.
new text end

new text begin $75,000 the first year and $75,000 the second
year are for compensation for destroyed or
crippled animals under Minnesota Statutes,
section 3.737. If the amount in the first year
is insufficient, the amount in the second year
is available in the first year.
new text end

new text begin $75,000 the first year and $75,000 the second
year are for compensation for crop damage
under Minnesota Statutes, section 3.7371. If
the amount in the first year is insufficient, the
amount in the second year is available in the
first year.
new text end

new text begin If the commissioner determines that claims
made under Minnesota Statutes, section
3.737 or 3.7371, are unusually high, amounts
appropriated for either program may be
transferred to the appropriation for the other
program.
new text end

new text begin $225,000 the first year and $225,000 the
second year are for an increase in retail food
handler inspections.
new text end

new text begin $25,000 the first year and $25,000 the second
year are for training manuals for licensure
related to commercial manure application.
new text end

new text begin $245,000 the first year and $245,000 the
second year are for an increase in the
operating budget for the Laboratory Services
Division.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner may spend up to $10,000
of the amount appropriated each year under
this subdivision to administer the agricultural
water quality certification program.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
18B.05, $90,000 the first year and $90,000
the second year are from the pesticide
regulatory account in the agricultural fund
for an increase in the operating budget for
the Laboratory Services Division.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
18B.05, $100,000 the first year and $100,000
the second year are from the pesticide
regulatory account in the agricultural fund to
update and modify applicator education and
training materials. No later than January 15,
2015, the commissioner must report to the
legislative committees with jurisdiction over
agriculture finance regarding the agency's
progress and a schedule of activities the
commissioner will accomplish to update and
modify additional materials by December
31, 2017.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
18B.05, $100,000 the first year and $100,000
the second year are from the pesticide
regulatory account in the agricultural fund to
monitor pesticides and pesticide degradates
in surface water and groundwater in areas
vulnerable to surface water impairments and
groundwater degradation and to use data
collected to improve pesticide use practices.
This is a onetime appropriation.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
18B.05, $150,000 the first year and $150,000
the second year are from the pesticide
regulatory account in the agricultural fund
for transfer to the commissioner of natural
resources for pollinator habitat restoration
that is visible to the public, along state trails,
and located in various parts of the state and
that includes an appropriate diversity of
native species selected to provide habitat for
pollinators throughout the growing season.
The commissioner of natural resources may
use up to $25,000 each year for pollinator
habitat signage and public awareness. This is
a onetime appropriation.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end new text begin Agricultural Marketing and Development new text end

new text begin 3,152,000 new text end

new text begin 3,152,000 new text end

new text begin $186,000 the first year and $186,000 the
second year are for transfer to the Minnesota
grown account and may be used as grants
for Minnesota grown promotion under
Minnesota Statutes, section 17.102. Grants
may be made for one year. Notwithstanding
Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.28, the
appropriations encumbered under contract
on or before June 30, 2015, for Minnesota
grown grants in this paragraph are available
until June 30, 2017.
new text end

new text begin $190,000 the first year and $190,000 the
second year are for grants to farmers for
demonstration projects involving sustainable
agriculture as authorized in Minnesota
Statutes, section 17.116, and for grants
to small or transitioning farmers. Of the
amount for grants, up to $20,000 may be
used for dissemination of information about
demonstration projects. Notwithstanding
Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.28, the
appropriations encumbered under contract
on or before June 30, 2015, for sustainable
agriculture grants in this paragraph are
available until June 30, 2017.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner may use funds
appropriated in this subdivision for annual
cost-share payments to resident farmers
or entities that sell, process, or package
agricultural products in this state for the costs
of organic certification. Annual cost-share
payments must be two-thirds of the cost of
the certification or $350, whichever is less.
A certified organic operation is eligible to
receive annual cost-share payments for up to
five years. In any year when federal organic
cost-share program funds are available or
when there is any excess appropriation in
either fiscal year, the commissioner may
allocate these funds for organic market and
program development, including organic
producer education efforts, assistance for
persons transitioning from conventional
to organic agriculture, or sustainable
agriculture demonstration grants authorized
under Minnesota Statutes, section 17.116,
and pertaining to organic research or
demonstration. Any unencumbered balance
does not cancel at the end of the first year
and is available for the second year.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner may spend up to $25,000
of the amount appropriated each year
under this subdivision for pollinator habitat
education and outreach efforts.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end new text begin Bioenergy and Value-Added Agriculture new text end

new text begin 10,235,000 new text end

new text begin 10,235,000 new text end

new text begin $10,235,000 the first year and $10,235,000
the second year are for the agricultural
growth, research, and innovation program
in Minnesota Statutes, section 41A.12.
The commissioner shall consider creating
a competitive grant program for small
renewable energy projects for rural residents.
No later than February 1, 2014, and February
1, 2015, the commissioner must report to
the legislative committees with jurisdiction
over agriculture policy and finance regarding
the commissioner's accomplishments and
anticipated accomplishments in the following
areas: developing new markets for Minnesota
farmers by providing more fruits and
vegetables for Minnesota school children;
facilitating the start-up, modernization,
or expansion of livestock operations
including beginning and transitioning
livestock operations; facilitating the start-up,
modernization, or expansion of other
beginning and transitioning farms; research
on conventional and cover crops; and biofuel
and other renewable energy development
including small renewable energy projects
for rural residents.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner may use up to 4.5 percent
of this appropriation for costs incurred to
administer the program. Any unencumbered
balance does not cancel at the end of the first
year and is available for the second year.
Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
16A.28, the appropriations encumbered
under contract on or before June 30, 2015, for
agricultural growth, research, and innovation
grants in this subdivision are available until
June 30, 2017.
new text end

new text begin Funds in this appropriation may be used
for bioenergy grants. The NextGen
Energy Board, established in Minnesota
Statutes, section 41A.105, shall make
recommendations to the commissioner on
grants for owners of Minnesota facilities
producing bioenergy; for organizations that
provide for on-station, on-farm field scale
research and outreach to develop and test
the agronomic and economic requirements
of diverse stands of prairie plants and other
perennials for bioenergy systems; or for
certain nongovernmental entities. For the
purposes of this paragraph, "bioenergy"
includes transportation fuels derived from
cellulosic material, as well as the generation
of energy for commercial heat, industrial
process heat, or electrical power from
cellulosic materials via gasification or
other processes. Grants are limited to 50
percent of the cost of research, technical
assistance, or equipment related to bioenergy
production or $500,000, whichever is less.
Grants to nongovernmental entities for the
development of business plans and structures
related to community ownership of eligible
bioenergy facilities together may not exceed
$150,000. The board shall make a good-faith
effort to select projects that have merit and,
when taken together, represent a variety of
bioenergy technologies, biomass feedstocks,
and geographic regions of the state. Projects
must have a qualified engineer provide
certification on the technology and fuel
source. Grantees must provide reports at
the request of the commissioner. No later
than February 1, 2014, and February 1,
2015, the commissioner shall report on the
projects funded under this appropriation to
the legislative committees with jurisdiction
over agriculture policy and finance.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end new text begin Administration and Financial Assistance new text end

new text begin 7,350,000 new text end

new text begin 7,460,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 6,550,000 new text end	new text begin 6,660,000 new text end
new text begin Agricultural new text end	new text begin 800,000 new text end	new text begin 800,000 new text end

new text begin $634,000 the first year and $634,000 the
second year are for continuation of the dairy
development and profitability enhancement
and dairy business planning grant programs
established under Laws 1997, chapter
216, section 7, subdivision 2, and Laws
2001, First Special Session chapter 2,
section 9, subdivision 2. The commissioner
may allocate the available sums among
permissible activities, including efforts to
improve the quality of milk produced in the
state in the proportions that the commissioner
deems most beneficial to Minnesota's
dairy farmers. The commissioner must
submit a detailed accomplishment report
and a work plan detailing future plans for,
and anticipated accomplishments from,
expenditures under this program to the
chairs and ranking minority members of the
legislative committees with jurisdiction over
agricultural policy and finance on or before
the start of each fiscal year. If significant
changes are made to the plans in the course
of the year, the commissioner must notify the
chairs and ranking minority members.
new text end

new text begin $47,000 the first year and $47,000 the second
year are for the Northern Crops Institute.
These appropriations may be spent to
purchase equipment.
new text end

new text begin $18,000 the first year and $18,000 the
second year are for a grant to the Minnesota
Livestock Breeders' Association.
new text end

new text begin $235,000 the first year and $235,000 the
second year are for grants to the Minnesota
Agriculture Education Leadership Council
for programs of the council under Minnesota
Statutes, chapter 41D.
new text end

new text begin $474,000 the first year and $474,000 the
second year are for payments to county and
district agricultural societies and associations
under Minnesota Statutes, section 38.02,
subdivision 1. Aid payments to county and
district agricultural societies and associations
shall be disbursed no later than July 15 of
each year. These payments are the amount of
aid from the state for an annual fair held in
the previous calendar year.
new text end

new text begin $1,000 the first year and $1,000 the second
year are for grants to the Minnesota State
Poultry Association.
new text end

new text begin $108,000 the first year and $108,000 the
second year are for annual grants to the
Minnesota Turf Seed Council for basic
and applied research on: (1) the improved
production of forage and turf seed related to
new and improved varieties; and (2) native
plants, including plant breeding, nutrient
management, pest management, disease
management, yield, and viability. The grant
recipient may subcontract with a qualified
third party for some or all of the basic or
applied research.
new text end

new text begin $500,000 the first year and $500,000 the
second year are for grants to Second Harvest
Heartland on behalf of Minnesota's six
Second Harvest food banks for the purchase
of milk for distribution to Minnesota's food
shelves and other charitable organizations
that are eligible to receive food from the food
banks. Milk purchased under the grants must
be acquired from Minnesota milk processors
and based on low-cost bids. The milk must be
allocated to each Second Harvest food bank
serving Minnesota according to the formula
used in the distribution of United States
Department of Agriculture commodities
under The Emergency Food Assistance
Program (TEFAP). Second Harvest
Heartland must submit quarterly reports
to the commissioner on forms prescribed
by the commissioner. The reports must
include, but are not limited to, information
on the expenditure of funds, the amount
of milk purchased, and the organizations
to which the milk was distributed. Second
Harvest Heartland may enter into contracts
or agreements with food banks for shared
funding or reimbursement of the direct
purchase of milk. Each food bank receiving
money from this appropriation may use up to
two percent of the grant for administrative
expenses.
new text end

new text begin $94,000 the first year and $94,000 the
second year are for transfer to the Board of
Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges
and Universities for statewide mental health
counseling support to farm families and
business operators through farm business
management programs at Central Lakes
College and Ridgewater College.
new text end

new text begin $17,000 the first year and $17,000 the second
year are for grants to the Minnesota State
Horticultural Society.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes,
section 18C.131, $800,000 the first year
and $800,000 the second year are from
the fertilizer inspection account in the
agricultural fund for grants for fertilizer
research as awarded by the Minnesota
Agricultural Fertilizer Research and
Education Council under Minnesota Statutes,
section 18C.71. The amount appropriated in
either fiscal year must not exceed 57 percent
of the inspection fee revenue collected
under Minnesota Statutes, section 18C.425,
subdivision 6, during the previous fiscal
year. No later than February 1, 2015, the
commissioner shall report to the legislative
committees with jurisdiction over agriculture
finance. The report must include the progress
and outcome of funded projects as well as
the sentiment of the council concerning the
need for additional research funds.
new text end

Sec. 4. new text begin BOARD OF ANIMAL HEALTH new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 4,869,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 4,901,000 new text end

Sec. 5. new text begin AGRICULTURAL UTILIZATION RESEARCH INSTITUTE new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 2,643,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 2,643,000 new text end

new text begin Money in this appropriation is available for
technical assistance and technology transfer
to bioenergy crop producers and users.
new text end

ARTICLE 2

AGRICULTURE POLICY

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 17.03, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Cooperation with federal agencies.

(a) The commissioner shall cooperate
with the government of the United States, with financial agencies created to assist in the
development of the agricultural resources of this state, and so far as practicable may use
the facilities provided by the existing state departments and the various state and local
organizations. This subdivision is intended to relate to every function and duty which
devolves upon the commissioner.

(b) The commissioner may apply for, receive, and disburse federal funds made
available to the state by federal law or regulation for any purpose related to the powers and
duties of the commissioner. All money received by the commissioner under this paragraph
shall be deposited in the state treasury and is appropriated to the commissioner for the
purposes for which it was received. new text begin Money made available under this paragraph may
be paid pursuant to applicable federal regulations and rate structures. new text end Money received
under this paragraph does not cancel and is available for expenditure according to federal
law. The commissioner may contract with and enter into grant agreements with persons,
organizations, educational institutions, firms, corporations, other state agencies, and any
agency or instrumentality of the federal government to carry out agreements made with
the federal government relating to the expenditure of money under this paragraph. Bid
requirements under chapter 16C do not apply to contracts under this paragraph.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 17.1015, is amended to read:

17.1015 PROMOTIONAL EXPENDITURES.

In order to accomplish the purposes of section 17.101, the commissioner may
participate jointly with private persons in appropriate programs and projects and may enter
into contracts to carry out those programs and projects. The contracts may not include
the acquisition of land or buildings and are not subject to the provisions of chapter 16C
relating to competitive bidding.

The commissioner may spend money appropriated for the purposes of section
17.101 new text begin in the same manner that private persons, firms, corporations, and associations
make expenditures for these purposes new text end , and expenditures made pursuant to section 17.101
for food, lodging, or travel are not governed by the travel rules of the commissioner of
management and budget.

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 17.118, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Definitions.

(a) For the purposes of this section, the terms defined in this
subdivision have the meanings given them.

(b) "Livestock" means beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, poultry, goats, mules, farmed
cervidae, ratitae, bison, sheep, horses, and llamas.

(c) "Qualifying expenditures" means the amount spent for:

(1) the acquisition, construction, or improvement of buildings or facilities for the
production of livestock or livestock products;

(2) the development of pasture for use by livestock including, but not limited to, the
acquisition, development, or improvement of:

(i) lanes used by livestock that connect pastures to a central location;

(ii) watering systems for livestock on pasture including water lines, booster pumps,
and well installations;

(iii) livestock stream crossing stabilization; and

(iv) fences; or

(3) the acquisition of equipment for livestock housing, confinement, feeding, and
waste management including, but not limited to, the following:

(i) freestall barns;

(ii) watering facilities;

(iii) feed storage and handling equipment;

(iv) milking parlors;

(v) robotic equipment;

(vi) scales;

(vii) milk storage and cooling facilities;

(viii) bulk tanks;

(ix) computer hardware and software and associated equipment used to monitor
the productivity and feeding of livestock;

(x) manure pumping and storage facilities;

(xi) swine farrowing facilities;

(xii) swine and cattle finishing barns;

(xiii) calving facilities;

(xiv) digesters;

(xv) equipment used to produce energy;

(xvi) on-farm processing facilities equipment;

(xvii) fences; and

(xviii) livestock pens and corrals and sorting, restraining, and loading chutes.

Except for qualifying pasture development expenditures under clause (2), qualifying
expenditures only include amounts that are allowed to be capitalized and deducted under
either section 167 or 179 of the Internal Revenue Code in computing federal taxable
income. Qualifying expenditures do not include an amount paid to refinance existing debt.

deleted text begin (d) "Qualifying period" means, for a grant awarded during a fiscal year, that full
calendar year of which the first six months precede the first day of the current fiscal year. For
example, an eligible person who makes qualifying expenditures during calendar year 2008
is eligible to receive a livestock investment grant between July 1, 2008, and June 30, 2009.
deleted text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin [17.9891] PURPOSE.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner, in consultation with the commissioner of natural resources,
commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency, and Board of Water and Soil Resources,
may implement a Minnesota agricultural water quality certification program whereby a
producer who demonstrates practices and management sufficient to protect water quality
is certified for up to ten years and presumed to be contributing the producer's share of
any targeted reduction of water pollutants during the certification period. The program
is voluntary. The program will first be piloted in selected watersheds across the state,
until such time as the commissioner, in consultation with the commissioner of natural
resources, commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency, and Board of Water and Soil
Resources, determines the program is ready for expansion.
new text end

Sec. 5.

new text begin [17.9892] DEFINITIONS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Application. new text end

new text begin The definitions in this section apply to sections
17.9891 to 17.993.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Certification. new text end

new text begin "Certification" means a producer has demonstrated
compliance with all applicable environmental rules and statutes for all of the producer's
owned and rented agricultural land and has achieved a satisfactory score through the
certification instrument as verified by a certifying agent.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Certifying agent. new text end

new text begin "Certifying agent" means a person who is authorized
by the commissioner to assess producers to determine whether a producer satisfies the
standards of the program.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Effective control. new text end

new text begin "Effective control" means possession of land by
ownership, written lease, or other legal agreement and authority to act as decision
maker for the day-to-day management of the operation at the time the producer achieves
certification and for the required certification period.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Eligible land. new text end

new text begin "Eligible land" means all acres of a producer's agricultural
operation, whether contiguous or not, that are under the effective control of the producer
at the time the producer enters into the program and that the producer operates with
equipment, labor, and management.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Program. new text end

new text begin "Program" means the Minnesota agricultural water quality
certification program.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Technical assistance. new text end

new text begin "Technical assistance" means professional, advisory,
or cost-share assistance provided to individuals in order to achieve certification.
new text end

Sec. 6.

new text begin [17.9893] CERTIFICATION INSTRUMENT.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner, in consultation with the commissioner of natural resources,
commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency, and Board of Water and Soil Resources,
shall develop an analytical instrument to assess the water quality practices and
management of agricultural operations. This instrument shall be used to certify that the
water quality practices and management of an agricultural operation are consistent with
state water quality goals and standards. The commissioner shall define a satisfactory score
for certification purposes. The certification instrument tool shall:
new text end

new text begin (1) integrate applicable existing regulatory requirements;
new text end

new text begin (2) utilize technology and prioritize ease of use;
new text end

new text begin (3) utilize a water quality index or score applicable to the landscape;
new text end

new text begin (4) incorporate a process for updates and revisions as practices, management, and
technology changes become established and approved; and
new text end

new text begin (5) comprehensively address water quality impacts.
new text end

Sec. 7.

new text begin [17.9894] CERTIFYING AGENT LICENSE.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin License. new text end

new text begin A person who offers certification services to producers
as part of the program must satisfy all criteria in subdivision 2 and be licensed by
the commissioner. A certifying agent is ineligible to provide certification services
to any producer to whom the certifying agent has also provided technical assistance.
Notwithstanding section 16A.1283, the commissioner may set license fees.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Certifying agent requirements. new text end

new text begin In order to be licensed as a certifying
agent, a person must:
new text end

new text begin (1) be an agricultural conservation professional employed by the state of Minnesota,
a soil and water conservation district, or the Natural Resources Conservation Service or a
Minnesota certified crop advisor as recognized by the American Society of Agronomy;
new text end

new text begin (2) have passed a comprehensive exam, as set by the commissioner, evaluating
knowledge of water quality, soil health, best farm management techniques, and the
certification instrument; and
new text end

new text begin (3) maintain continuing education requirements as set by the commissioner.
new text end

Sec. 8.

new text begin [17.9895] DUTIES OF A CERTIFYING AGENT.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Duties. new text end

new text begin A certifying agent shall conduct a formal certification
assessment utilizing the certification instrument to determine whether a producer meets
program criteria. If a producer satisfies all requirements, the certifying agent shall notify
the commissioner of the producer's eligibility and request that the commissioner issue a
certificate. All records and documents used in the assessment shall be compiled by the
certifying agent and submitted to the commissioner.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Violations. new text end

new text begin (a) In the event a certifying agent violates any provision of
sections 17.9891 to 17.993 or an order of the commissioner, the commissioner may issue a
written warning or a correction order and may suspend or revoke a license.
new text end

new text begin (b) If the commissioner suspends or revokes a license, the certifying agent has ten
days from the date of suspension or revocation to appeal. If a certifying agent appeals, the
commissioner shall hold an administrative hearing within 30 days of the suspension or
revocation of the license, or longer by agreement of the parties, to determine whether the
license is revoked or suspended. The commissioner shall issue an opinion within 30 days.
If a person notifies the commissioner that the person intends to contest the commissioner's
opinion, the Office of Administrative Hearings shall conduct a hearing in accordance with
the applicable provisions of chapter 14 for hearings in contested cases.
new text end

Sec. 9.

new text begin [17.9896] CERTIFICATION PROCEDURES.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Producer duties. new text end

new text begin A producer who seeks certification of eligible land
shall conduct an initial assessment using the certification instrument, obtain technical
assistance if necessary to achieve a satisfactory score on the certification instrument, and
apply for certification from a licensed certifying agent.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Additional land. new text end

new text begin Once certified, if a producer obtains effective control
of additional agricultural land, the producer must notify a certifying agent and obtain
certification of the additional land within one year in order to retain the producer's original
certification.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Violations. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner may revoke a certification if the
producer fails to obtain certification on any additional land for which the producer obtains
effective control.
new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner may revoke a certification and seek reimbursement of any
monetary benefit a producer may have received due to certification from a producer who
fails to maintain certification criteria.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the commissioner revokes a certification, the producer has ten days from the
date of suspension or revocation to appeal. If a producer appeals, the commissioner shall
hold an administrative hearing within 30 days of the suspension or revocation of the
certification, or longer by agreement of the parties, to determine whether the certification
is revoked or suspended. The commissioner shall issue an opinion within 30 days. If the
producer notifies the commissioner that the producer intends to contest the commissioner's
opinion, the Office of Administrative Hearings shall conduct a hearing in accordance with
the applicable provisions of chapter 14 for hearings in contested cases.
new text end

Sec. 10.

new text begin [17.9897] CERTIFICATION CERTAINTY.
new text end

new text begin (a) Once a producer is certified, the producer:
new text end

new text begin (1) retains certification for up to ten years from the date of certification if the
producer complies with the certification agreement, even if the producer does not comply
with new state water protection laws or rules that take effect during the certification period;
new text end

new text begin (2) is presumed to be meeting the producer's contribution to any targeted reduction
of pollutants during the certification period;
new text end

new text begin (3) is required to continue implementation of practices that maintain the producer's
certification; and
new text end

new text begin (4) is required to retain all records pertaining to certification.
new text end

new text begin (b) Paragraph (a) does not preclude enforcement of a local rule or ordinance by a
local unit of government.
new text end

Sec. 11.

new text begin [17.9898] AUDITS.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner shall perform random audits of producers and certifying agents to
ensure compliance with the program. All producers and certifying agents shall cooperate
with the commissioner during these audits, and provide all relevant documents to the
commissioner for inspection and copying. Any delay, obstruction, or refusal to cooperate
with the commissioner's audit or falsification of or failure to provide required data or
information is a violation subject to the provisions of section 17.9895, subdivision 2, or
17.9896, subdivision 3.
new text end

Sec. 12.

new text begin [17.9899] DATA.
new text end

new text begin All data collected under the program that identifies a producer or a producer's
location are considered nonpublic data as defined in section 13.02, subdivision 9, or
private data on individuals as defined in section 13.02, subdivision 12. The commissioner
shall make available summary data of program outcomes on data classified as private
or nonpublic under this section.
new text end

Sec. 13.

new text begin [17.991] RULEMAKING.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner may adopt rules to implement the program.
new text end

Sec. 14.

new text begin [17.992] REPORTS.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner, in consultation with the commissioner of natural resources,
commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency, and Board of Water and Soil Resources,
shall issue a biennial report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative
committees with jurisdiction over agricultural policy on the status of the program.
new text end

Sec. 15.

new text begin [17.993] FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner may use contributions from gifts or other state accounts, provided
that the purpose of the expenditure is consistent with the purpose of the accounts, for
grants, loans, or other financial assistance.
new text end

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.77, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Control.

"Control" means to deleted text begin destroy all or part of the aboveground
growth of noxious weeds deleted text end new text begin manage or prevent the maturation and spread of propagating
parts of noxious weeds from one area to another new text end by a lawful method that does not cause
unreasonable adverse effects on the environment as defined in section 18B.01, subdivision
31 deleted text begin , and prevents the maturation and spread of noxious weed propagating parts from one
area to another deleted text end .

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.77, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Eradicate.

"Eradicate" means to destroy the aboveground deleted text begin growth and the
roots deleted text end new text begin and belowground plant parts new text end of noxious weeds by a lawful method deleted text begin that deleted text end new text begin , which
new text end prevents the maturation and spread of noxious weed propagating parts from one area
to another.

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.77, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10.

Permanent pasture, hay meadow, woodlot, deleted text begin and deleted text end new text begin or new text end other noncrop
area.

"Permanent pasture, hay meadow, woodlot, deleted text begin and deleted text end new text begin or new text end other noncrop area" means an
area of predominantly native or seeded perennial plants that can be used for grazing or hay
purposes but is not harvested on a regular basis and is not considered to be a growing crop.

Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.77, subdivision 12, is amended to read:

Subd. 12.

Propagating parts.

"Propagating parts" means new text begin all new text end plant parts, including
seeds, that are capable of producing new plants.

Sec. 20.

new text begin [18.771] NOXIOUS WEED CATEGORIES.
new text end

new text begin (a) For purposes of this section, noxious weed category includes each of the
following categories.
new text end

new text begin (b) "Prohibited noxious weeds" includes noxious weeds that must be controlled or
eradicated on all lands within the state. Transportation of a prohibited noxious weed's
propagating parts is restricted by permit except as allowed by section 18.82. Prohibited
noxious weeds may not be sold or propagated in Minnesota. There are two regulatory
listings for prohibited noxious weeds in Minnesota:
new text end

new text begin (1) the noxious weed eradicate list is established. Prohibited noxious weeds placed
on the noxious weed eradicate list are plants that are not currently known to be present in
Minnesota or are not widely established. These species must be eradicated; and
new text end

new text begin (2) the noxious weed control list is established. Prohibited noxious weeds placed on
the noxious weed control list are plants that are already established throughout Minnesota
or regions of the state. Species on this list must at least be controlled.
new text end

new text begin (c) "Restricted noxious weeds" includes noxious weeds that are widely distributed
in Minnesota, but for which the only feasible means of control is to prevent their spread
by prohibiting the importation, sale, and transportation of their propagating parts in the
state, except as allowed by section 18.82.
new text end

new text begin (d) "Specially regulated plants" includes noxious weeds that may be native
species or have demonstrated economic value, but also have the potential to cause harm
in noncontrolled environments. Plants designated as specially regulated have been
determined to pose ecological, economical, or human or animal health concerns. Species
specific management plans or rules that define the use and management requirements
for these plants must be developed by the commissioner of agriculture for each plant
designated as specially regulated. The commissioner must also take measures to minimize
the potential for harm caused by these plants.
new text end

new text begin (e) "County noxious weeds" includes noxious weeds that are designated by
individual county boards to be enforced as prohibited noxious weeds within the county's
jurisdiction and must be approved by the commissioner of agriculture, in consultation with
the Noxious Weed Advisory Committee. Each county board must submit newly proposed
county noxious weeds to the commissioner of agriculture for review. Approved county
noxious weeds shall also be posted with the county's general weed notice prior to May 15
each year. Counties are solely responsible for developing county noxious weed lists and
their enforcement.
new text end

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.78, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

deleted text begin Cooperative deleted text end Weed control agreement.

The commissioner, municipality,
or county agricultural inspector or county-designated employee may enter into a
deleted text begin cooperative deleted text end weed control agreement with a landowner or weed management area
group to establish a mutually agreed-upon noxious weed management plan for up to
three years duration, whereby a noxious weed problem will be controlled without
additional enforcement action. If a property owner fails to comply with the noxious weed
management plan, an individual notice may be served.

Sec. 22.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.79, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Training for control or eradication of noxious weeds.

The commissioner
shall conduct initial training considered necessary for inspectors and county-designated
employees in the enforcement of the Minnesota Noxious Weed Law. The director of deleted text begin the
deleted text end new text begin University of new text end Minnesota Extension deleted text begin Service deleted text end may conduct educational programs for the
general public that will aid compliance with the Minnesota Noxious Weed Law. Upon
request, the commissioner may provide information and other technical assistance to the
county agricultural inspector or county-designated employee to aid in the performance of
responsibilities specified by the county board under section 18.81, subdivisions 1a and 1b.

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.79, subdivision 13, is amended to read:

Subd. 13.

Noxious weed designation.

The commissioner, in consultation with the
Noxious Weed Advisory Committee, shall determine which plants are noxious weeds
subject to deleted text begin control deleted text end new text begin regulation new text end under sections 18.76 to 18.91. The commissioner shall
prepare, publish, and revise as necessary, but at least once every three years, a list of
noxious weeds and their designated classification. The list must be distributed to the public
by the commissioner who may request the help of deleted text begin the deleted text end University of Minnesota Extension,
the county agricultural inspectors, and any other organization the commissioner considers
appropriate to assist in the distribution. The commissioner may, in consultation with
the Noxious Weed Advisory Committee, accept and consider noxious weed designation
petitions from Minnesota citizens or Minnesota organizations or associations.

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.82, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Permits.

Except as provided in section 21.74, if a person wants to
transport along a public highway materials or equipment containing the propagating parts of
weeds designated as noxious by the commissioner, the person must secure a written permit
for transportation of the material or equipment from an inspector or county-designated
employee. Inspectors or county-designated employees may issue permits to persons
residing or operating within their jurisdiction. deleted text begin If the noxious weed propagating parts are
removed from materials and equipment or devitalized before being transported, a permit is
not needed deleted text end new text begin A permit is not required for the transport of noxious weeds for the purpose
of destroying propagating parts at a Department of Agriculture-approved disposal site.
Anyone transporting noxious weed propagating parts for this purpose shall ensure that all
materials are contained in a manner that prevents escape during transport new text end .

Sec. 25.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.91, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Duties.

The commissioner shall consult with the Noxious Weed
Advisory Committee to advise the commissioner concerning responsibilities under
the noxious weed control program. The committee shall deleted text begin also deleted text end evaluate species for
invasiveness, difficulty of control, cost of control, benefits, and amount of injury caused
by them. For each species evaluated, the committee shall recommend to the commissioner
on which noxious weed list or lists, if any, the species should be placed. Species deleted text begin currently
deleted text end designated as prohibited or restricted noxious weeds new text begin or specially regulated plants new text end must
be reevaluated every three years for a recommendation on whether or not they need to
remain on the noxious weed lists. new text begin The committee shall also advise the commissioner on
the implementation of the Minnesota Noxious Weed Law and assist the commissioner in
the development of management criteria for each noxious weed category. new text end Members of
the committee are not entitled to reimbursement of expenses nor payment of per diem.
Members shall serve two-year terms with subsequent reappointment by the commissioner.

Sec. 26.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18.91, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Membership.

The commissioner shall appoint members, which shall
include representatives from the following:

(1) horticultural science, agronomy, and forestry at the University of Minnesota;

(2) the nursery and landscape industry in Minnesota;

(3) the seed industry in Minnesota;

(4) the Department of Agriculture;

(5) the Department of Natural Resources;

(6) a conservation organization;

(7) an environmental organization;

(8) at least two farm organizations;

(9) the county agricultural inspectors;

(10) city, township, and county governments;

(11) the Department of Transportation;

(12) deleted text begin the deleted text end University of Minnesota Extension;

(13) the timber and forestry industry in Minnesota;

(14) the Board of Water and Soil Resources; deleted text begin and
deleted text end

(15) soil and water conservation districts deleted text begin . deleted text end new text begin ;
new text end

new text begin (16) Minnesota Association of County Land Commissioners; and
new text end

new text begin (17) members as needed.
new text end

Sec. 27.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.01, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 4a. new text end

new text begin Bulk pesticide storage facility. new text end

new text begin "Bulk pesticide storage facility" means a
facility that is required to have a permit under section 18B.14.
new text end

Sec. 28.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.065, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a.

Disposal site requirement.

(a) For agricultural waste pesticides, the
commissioner must designate a place in each county of the state that is available at least
every other year for persons to dispose of unused portions of agricultural pesticides. The
commissioner shall consult with the person responsible for solid waste management
and disposal in each county to determine an appropriate location and to advertise each
collection event. The commissioner may provide a collection opportunity in a county
more frequently if the commissioner determines that a collection is warranted.

(b) For nonagricultural waste pesticides, the commissioner must provide a disposal
opportunity each year in each county or enter into a contract with a group of counties
under a joint powers agreement or contract for household hazardous waste disposal.

(c) As provided under subdivision 7, the commissioner may enter into cooperative
agreements with local units of government to provide the collections required under
paragraph (a) or (b) and shall provide a local unit of government, as part of the cooperative
agreement, with funding for reasonable costs incurred including, but not limited to, related
supplies, transportation, advertising, and disposal costs as well as reasonable overhead
costs.

(d) A person who collects waste pesticide under this section shall, on a form
provided or in a method approved by the commissioner, record information on each
waste pesticide product collected including, but not limited to, the quantity collected
and either the product name and its active ingredient or ingredients or the United States
Environmental Protection Agency registration number. The person must submit this
information to the commissioner at least annually by January 30.

new text begin (e) Notwithstanding the recording and reporting requirements of paragraph (d),
persons are not required to record or report agricultural or nonagricultural waste pesticide
collected in the remainder of 2013, 2014, and 2015. The commissioner shall analyze
existing collection data to identify trends that will inform future collection strategies to
better meet the needs and nature of current waste pesticide streams. By January 15, 2015,
the commissioner shall report analysis, recommendations, and proposed policy changes to
this program to legislative committees with jurisdiction over agriculture finance and policy.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment
and applies to waste pesticide collected on or after that date through the end of 2015.
new text end

Sec. 29.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.07, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Pesticide new text begin storage new text end safeguards deleted text begin at application sites deleted text end .

A person may not
allow a pesticide, rinsate, or unrinsed pesticide container to be stored, kept, or to remain in
or on any site without safeguards adequate to prevent an incident. new text begin Pesticides may not be
stored in any location with an open drain.
new text end

Sec. 30.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.07, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Use of deleted text begin public deleted text end water supplies for filling new text begin application new text end equipment.

new text begin (a) new text end A
person may not fill pesticide application equipment directly from a public water supply,
as defined in section 144.382, new text begin or from public waters, as defined in section 103G.005,
subdivision 15, new text end unless the deleted text begin outlet from the public deleted text end new text begin equipment or new text end water supply is equipped
with a backflow prevention device that complies with the Minnesota Plumbing Code
under Minnesota Rules, parts 4715.2000 to 4715.2280.

new text begin (b) Cross connections between a water supply used for filling pesticide application
equipment are prohibited.
new text end

new text begin (c) This subdivision does not apply to permitted applications of aquatic pesticides to
public waters.
new text end

Sec. 31.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.07, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

deleted text begin Cleaning equipment in or near surface water deleted text end new text begin Pesticide handling
restrictions new text end .

(a) A person may not deleted text begin : deleted text end new text begin fill or clean pesticide application equipment where
pesticides or materials contaminated with pesticides could enter ditches, surface water,
groundwater, wells, drains, or sewers. For wells, the setbacks established in Minnesota
Rules, part 4725.4450, apply.
new text end

deleted text begin (1) clean pesticide application equipment in surface waters of the state; or
deleted text end

deleted text begin (2) fill or clean pesticide application equipment adjacent to surface waters,
ditches, or wells where, because of the slope or other conditions, pesticides or materials
contaminated with pesticides could enter or contaminate the surface waters, groundwater,
or wells, as a result of overflow, leakage, or other causes.
deleted text end

(b) This subdivision does not apply to permitted application of aquatic pesticides to
public waters.

Sec. 32.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.26, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Registration application and gross sales fee.

(a) For an agricultural
pesticide, a registrant shall pay an annual registration application fee for each agricultural
pesticide of $350. The fee is due by December 31 preceding the year for which the
application for registration is made. The fee is nonrefundable.

(b) For a nonagricultural pesticide, a registrant shall pay a minimum annual
registration application fee for each nonagricultural pesticide of $350. The fee is due by
December 31 preceding the year for which the application for registration is made. The
fee is nonrefundable. The registrant of a nonagricultural pesticide shall pay, in addition to
the $350 minimum fee, a fee of 0.5 percent of annual gross sales of the nonagricultural
pesticide in the state and the annual gross sales of the nonagricultural pesticide sold into
the state for use in this state. deleted text begin The commissioner may not assess a fee under this paragraph
if the amount due based on percent of annual gross sales is less than $10 deleted text end new text begin No fee is required
if the fee due amount based on percent of annual gross sales of a nonagricultural pesticide
is less than $10 new text end . The registrant shall secure sufficient sales information of nonagricultural
pesticides distributed into this state from distributors and dealers, regardless of distributor
location, to make a determination. Sales of nonagricultural pesticides in this state and
sales of nonagricultural pesticides for use in this state by out-of-state distributors are not
exempt and must be included in the registrant's annual report, as required under paragraph
(g), and fees shall be paid by the registrant based upon those reported sales. Sales of
nonagricultural pesticides in the state for use outside of the state are exempt from the
gross sales fee in this paragraph if the registrant properly documents the sale location and
distributors. A registrant paying more than the minimum fee shall pay the balance due by
March 1 based on the gross sales of the nonagricultural pesticide by the registrant for the
preceding calendar year. A pesticide determined by the commissioner to be a sanitizer or
disinfectant is exempt from the gross sales fee.

(c) For agricultural pesticides, a licensed agricultural pesticide dealer or licensed
pesticide dealer shall pay a gross sales fee of 0.55 percent of annual gross sales of the
agricultural pesticide in the state and the annual gross sales of the agricultural pesticide
sold into the state for use in this state.

(d) In those cases where a registrant first sells an agricultural pesticide in or into the
state to a pesticide end user, the registrant must first obtain an agricultural pesticide dealer
license and is responsible for payment of the annual gross sales fee under paragraph (c),
record keeping under paragraph (i), and all other requirements of section 18B.316.

(e) If the total annual revenue from fees collected in fiscal year 2011, 2012, or 2013,
by the commissioner on the registration and sale of pesticides is less than $6,600,000, the
commissioner, after a public hearing, may increase proportionally the pesticide sales and
product registration fees under this chapter by the amount necessary to ensure this level
of revenue is achieved. The authority under this section expires on June 30, 2014. The
commissioner shall report any fee increases under this paragraph 60 days before the fee
change is effective to the senate and house of representatives agriculture budget divisions.

(f) An additional fee of 50 percent of the registration application fee must be paid by
the applicant for each pesticide to be registered if the application is a renewal application
that is submitted after December 31.

(g) A registrant must annually report to the commissioner the amount, type and
annual gross sales of each registered nonagricultural pesticide sold, offered for sale, or
otherwise distributed in the state. The report shall be filed by March 1 for the previous
year's registration. The commissioner shall specify the form of the report or approve
the method for submittal of the report and may require additional information deemed
necessary to determine the amount and type of nonagricultural pesticide annually
distributed in the state. The information required shall include the brand name, United
States Environmental Protection Agency registration number, and amount of each
nonagricultural pesticide sold, offered for sale, or otherwise distributed in the state, but
the information collected, if made public, shall be reported in a manner which does not
identify a specific brand name in the report.

(h) A licensed agricultural pesticide dealer or licensed pesticide dealer must annually
report to the commissioner the amount, type, and annual gross sales of each registered
agricultural pesticide sold, offered for sale, or otherwise distributed in the state or into the
state for use in the state. The report must be filed by January 31 for the previous year's
sales. The commissioner shall specify the form, contents, and approved electronic method
for submittal of the report and may require additional information deemed necessary to
determine the amount and type of agricultural pesticide annually distributed within the
state or into the state. The information required must include the brand name, United States
Environmental Protection Agency registration number, and amount of each agricultural
pesticide sold, offered for sale, or otherwise distributed in the state or into the state.

(i) A person who registers a pesticide with the commissioner under paragraph (b),
or a registrant under paragraph (d), shall keep accurate records for five years detailing
all distribution or sales transactions into the state or in the state and subject to a fee and
surcharge under this section.

(j) The records are subject to inspection, copying, and audit by the commissioner
and must clearly demonstrate proof of payment of all applicable fees and surcharges
for each registered pesticide product sold for use in this state. A person who is located
outside of this state must maintain and make available records required by this subdivision
in this state or pay all costs incurred by the commissioner in the inspecting, copying, or
auditing of the records.

(k) The commissioner may adopt by rule regulations that require persons subject
to audit under this section to provide information determined by the commissioner to be
necessary to enable the commissioner to perform the audit.

(l) A registrant who is required to pay more than the minimum fee for any pesticide
under paragraph (b) must pay a late fee penalty of $100 for each pesticide application fee
paid after March 1 in the year for which the license is to be issued.

Sec. 33.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.305, is amended to read:

18B.305 PESTICIDE EDUCATION AND TRAINING.

Subdivision 1.

Education and training.

(a) The commissioner new text begin , as the lead agency,
new text end shall develop, new text begin implement or approve, and evaluate, new text end in deleted text begin conjunction deleted text end new text begin consultation new text end with deleted text begin the
deleted text end University of Minnesota Extension deleted text begin Service deleted text end new text begin , the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities
system, and other educational institutions new text end , innovative educational and training programs
addressing pesticide concerns including:

(1) water quality protection;

(2) endangered species new text begin protection new text end ;

(3) new text begin minimizing new text end pesticide residues in food and water;

(4) worker protection new text begin and applicator safety new text end ;

(5) chronic toxicity;

(6) integrated pest management new text begin and pest resistance new text end ; deleted text begin and
deleted text end

(7) pesticide disposal new text begin ;
new text end

new text begin (8) pesticide drift;
new text end

new text begin (9) relevant laws including pesticide labels and labeling and state and federal rules
and regulations; and
new text end

new text begin (10) current science and technology updates new text end .

(b) The commissioner shall appoint educational planning committees which must
include representatives of industry new text begin and applicators new text end .

(c) Specific current regulatory concerns must be discussed and, if appropriate,
incorporated into each training session. new text begin Relevant changes to pesticide product labels or
labeling or state and federal rules and regulations may be included.
new text end

(d) The commissioner may approve programs from private industry new text begin , higher
education institutions, new text end and nonprofit organizations that meet minimum requirements for
education, training, and certification.

Subd. 2.

Training manual and examination development.

The commissioner,
in conjunction with deleted text begin the deleted text end University of Minnesota Extension deleted text begin Service deleted text end new text begin and other higher
education institutions new text end , shall continually revise and update pesticide applicator training
manuals and examinations. The manuals and examinations must be written to meet or
exceed the minimum standards required by the United States Environmental Protection
Agency and pertinent state specific information. Questions in the examinations must be
determined by the new text begin commissioner in consultation with other new text end responsible agencies. Manuals
and examinations must include pesticide management practices that discuss prevention of
pesticide occurrence in deleted text begin groundwaters deleted text end new text begin groundwater and surface water new text end of the state.

Sec. 34.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.316, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Requirement.

(a) A person must not deleted text begin distribute deleted text end new text begin offer for sale new text end or sell
an agricultural pesticide in the state or into the state without first obtaining an agricultural
pesticide dealer license.

(b) Each location or place of business from which an agricultural pesticide is
deleted text begin distributed deleted text end new text begin offered for sale new text end or sold in the state or into the state is required to have a
separate agricultural pesticide dealer license.

(c) A person who is a licensed pesticide dealer under section 18B.31 is not required
to also be licensed under this subdivision.

Sec. 35.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.316, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Resident agent.

A person required to be licensed under subdivisions 1
and 2, or a person licensed as a pesticide dealer pursuant to section 18B.31 and who
operates from a location or place of business outside the state and who deleted text begin distributes deleted text end new text begin offers
for sale new text end or sells an agricultural pesticide into the state, must continuously maintain in
this state the following:

(1) a registered office; and

(2) a registered agent, who may be either a resident of this state whose business
office or residence is identical with the registered office under clause (1), a domestic
corporation or limited liability company, or a foreign corporation of limited liability
company authorized to transact business in this state and having a business office identical
with the registered office.

A person licensed under this section or section 18B.31 shall annually file with the
commissioner, either at the time of initial licensing or as part of license renewal, the name,
address, telephone number, and e-mail address of the licensee's registered agent.

For licensees under section 18B.31 who are located in the state, the licensee is
the registered agent.

Sec. 36.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.316, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Responsibility.

The resident agent is responsible for the acts of a licensed
agricultural pesticide dealer, or of a licensed pesticide dealer under section 18B.31 who
operates from a location or place of business outside the state and who deleted text begin distributes deleted text end new text begin offers
for sale new text end or sells an agricultural pesticide into the state, as well as the acts of the employees
of those licensees.

Sec. 37.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.316, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

Report of sales and payment to commissioner.

A person who is an
agricultural pesticide dealer, or is a licensed pesticide dealer under section 18B.31, who
deleted text begin distributes deleted text end new text begin offers for sale new text end or sells an agricultural pesticide in or into the state, and a
pesticide registrant pursuant to section 18B.26, subdivision 3, paragraph (d), shall no
later than January 31 of each year report and pay applicable fees on annual gross sales
of agricultural pesticides to the commissioner pursuant to requirements under section
18B.26, subdivision 3, paragraphs (c) and (h).

Sec. 38.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.316, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9.

Application.

(a) A person must apply to the commissioner for an
agricultural pesticide dealer license on forms and in a manner approved by the
commissioner.

(b) The applicant must be the person in charge of each location or place of business
from which agricultural pesticides are deleted text begin distributed deleted text end new text begin offered for sale new text end or sold in or into the state.

(c) The commissioner may require that the applicant provide information regarding
the applicant's proposed operations and other information considered pertinent by the
commissioner.

(d) The commissioner may require additional demonstration of licensee qualification
if the licensee has had a license suspended or revoked, or has otherwise had a history of
violations in another state or violations of this chapter.

(e) A licensed agricultural pesticide dealer who changes the dealer's address or place
of business must immediately notify the commissioner of the change.

(f) Beginning January 1, 2011, an application for renewal of an agricultural pesticide
dealer license is complete only when a report and any applicable payment of fees under
subdivision 8 are received by the commissioner.

Sec. 39.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.37, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

deleted text begin Storage, handling, deleted text end Incident response deleted text begin , and disposal deleted text end plan.

A pesticide
dealer, agricultural pesticide dealer, or a commercial, noncommercial, or structural pest
control deleted text begin applicator or the business that the applicator is employed by deleted text end new text begin business new text end must develop
and maintain deleted text begin a deleted text end new text begin an incident response new text end plan that describes deleted text begin its pesticide storage, handling,
incident response, and disposal practices deleted text end new text begin the actions that will be taken to prevent and
respond to pesticide incidents. The plan must contain the same information as forms
provided by the commissioner new text end . The plan must be kept at a principal business site or location
within this state and must be submitted to the commissioner upon request deleted text begin on forms provided
by the commissioner. The plan must be available for inspection by the commissioner deleted text end .

Sec. 40.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18C.430, is amended to read:

18C.430 COMMERCIAL ANIMAL WASTE TECHNICIAN.

Subdivision 1.

Requirement.

(a) deleted text begin Except as provided in paragraph (c), after March
1, 2000, deleted text end A person may not manage or apply animal wastes new text begin to the land new text end for hire deleted text begin without a
valid commercial animal waste technician license. This section does not apply to a person
managing or applying animal waste on land managed by the person's employer. deleted text end new text begin :
new text end

new text begin (1) without a valid commercial animal waste technician applicator license;
new text end

new text begin (2) without a valid commercial animal waste technician site manager license; or
new text end

new text begin (3) as a sole proprietorship, company, partnership, or corporation unless a
commercial animal waste technician company license is held and a commercial animal
waste technical site manager is employed by the entity.
new text end

(b) A person managing or applying animal wastes for hire must have a valid
license identification card when managing or applying animal wastes for hire and must
display it upon demand by an authorized representative of the commissioner or a law
enforcement officer. The commissioner shall prescribe the information required on the
license identification card.

(c) deleted text begin A person who is not a licensed commercial animal waste technician who has had
at least two hours of training or experience in animal waste management may manage
or apply animal waste for hire under the supervision of a commercial animal waste
technician. deleted text end new text begin A commercial animal waste technician applicator must have a minimum of
two hours of certification training in animal waste management and may only manage or
apply animal waste for hire under the supervision of a commercial animal waste technician
site manager. The commissioner shall prescribe the conditions of the supervision and the
form and format required on the certification training.
new text end

new text begin (d) This section does not apply to a person managing or applying animal waste on
land managed by the person's employer.
new text end

Subd. 2.

Responsibility.

A person required to be licensed under this section who
performs animal waste management or application for hire or who employs a person to
perform animal waste management or application for compensation is responsible for
proper management or application of the animal wastes.

Subd. 3.

License.

new text begin (a) new text end A commercial animal waste technician license new text begin , including
applicator, site manager, and company new text end :

(1) is valid for deleted text begin three years deleted text end new text begin one year new text end and expires on December 31 of the deleted text begin third deleted text end year for
which it is issued, unless suspended or revoked before that date;

(2) is not transferable to another person; and

(3) must be prominently displayed to the public in the commercial animal waste
technician's place of business.

new text begin (b) The commercial animal waste technician company license number assigned by
the commissioner must appear on the application equipment when a person manages
or applies animal waste for hire.
new text end

Subd. 4.

Application.

(a) A person must apply to the commissioner for a commercial
animal waste technician license on forms and in the manner required by the commissioner
and must include the application fee. The commissioner shall prescribe and administer
an examination or equivalent measure to determine if the applicant is eligible for the
commercial animal waste technician license new text begin , site manager license, or applicator license new text end .

(b) The commissioner of agriculture, in cooperation with deleted text begin the deleted text end new text begin University of
new text end Minnesota Extension deleted text begin Service deleted text end and appropriate educational institutions, shall establish and
implement a program for training and licensing commercial animal waste technicians.

Subd. 5.

Renewal application.

new text begin (a) new text end A person must apply to the commissioner of
agriculture to renew a commercial animal waste technician license and must include the
application fee. The commissioner may renew a commercial animal waste technician
new text begin applicator or site manager new text end license, subject to reexamination, attendance at workshops
approved by the commissioner, or other requirements imposed by the commissioner to
provide the animal waste technician with information regarding changing technology and
to help ensure a continuing level of competence and ability to manage and apply animal
wastes properly. The applicant may renew a commercial animal waste technician license
within 12 months after expiration of the license without having to meet initial testing
requirements. The commissioner may require additional demonstration of animal waste
technician qualification if a person has had a license suspended or revoked or has had a
history of violations of this section.

new text begin (b) An applicant who meets renewal requirements by reexamination instead
of attending workshops must pay a fee for the reexamination as determined by the
commissioner.
new text end

Subd. 6.

Financial responsibility.

(a) A commercial animal waste technician
license may not be issued unless the applicant furnishes proof of financial responsibility.
The financial responsibility may be demonstrated by (1) proof of net assets equal to or
greater than $50,000, or (2) a performance bond or insurance of the kind and in an amount
determined by the commissioner of agriculture.

(b) The bond or insurance must cover a period of time at least equal to the term of
the applicant's license. The commissioner shall immediately suspend the license of a
person who fails to maintain the required bond or insurance.

(c) An employee of a licensed person is not required to maintain an insurance policy
or bond during the time the employer is maintaining the required insurance or bond.

(d) Applications for reinstatement of a license suspended under paragraph (b) must
be accompanied by proof of satisfaction of judgments previously rendered.

Subd. 7.

Application fee.

new text begin (a) new text end A person initially applying for or renewing
a commercial animal waste technician new text begin applicator new text end license must pay a nonrefundable
deleted text begin application deleted text end fee of deleted text begin $50 and a fee of $10 for each additional identification card requested.
deleted text end new text begin $25. A person initially applying for or renewing a commercial animal waste technician
site manager license must pay a nonrefundable application fee of $50. A person initially
applying for or renewing a commercial animal waste technician company license must
pay a nonrefundable application fee of $100.
new text end

new text begin (b) A license renewal application received after March 1 in the year for which the
license is to be issued is subject to a penalty fee of 50 percent of the application fee. The
penalty fee must be paid before the renewal license may be issued.
new text end

new text begin (c) An application for a duplicate commercial animal waste technician license must
be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of $10.
new text end

Sec. 41.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18C.433, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Requirement.

Beginning January 1, 2006, only a commercial
animal waste technician deleted text begin , deleted text end new text begin site manager or commercial animal waste technician applicator
new text end may apply animal waste from a feedlot that:

(1) has a capacity of 300 animal units or more; and

(2) does not have an updated manure management plan that meets the requirements
of Pollution Control Agency rules.

Sec. 42.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 31.94, is amended to read:

31.94 COMMISSIONER DUTIES.

(a) In order to promote opportunities for organic agriculture in Minnesota, the
commissioner shall:

(1) survey producers and support services and organizations to determine
information and research needs in the area of organic agriculture practices;

(2) work with the University of Minnesota to demonstrate the on-farm applicability
of organic agriculture practices to conditions in this state;

(3) direct the programs of the department so as to work toward the promotion of
organic agriculture in this state;

(4) inform agencies of how state or federal programs could utilize and support
organic agriculture practices; and

(5) work closely with producers, the University of Minnesota, the Minnesota Trade
Office, and other appropriate organizations to identify opportunities and needs as well
as ensure coordination and avoid duplication of state agency efforts regarding research,
teaching, marketing, and extension work relating to organic agriculture.

(b) By November 15 of each year that ends in a zero or a five, the commissioner,
in conjunction with the task force created in paragraph (c), shall report on the status of
organic agriculture in Minnesota to the legislative policy and finance committees and
divisions with jurisdiction over agriculture. The report must include available data on
organic acreage and production, available data on the sales or market performance of
organic products, and recommendations regarding programs, policies, and research efforts
that will benefit Minnesota's organic agriculture sector.

(c) A Minnesota Organic Advisory Task Force shall advise the commissioner and the
University of Minnesota on policies and programs that will improve organic agriculture in
Minnesota, including how available resources can most effectively be used for outreach,
education, research, and technical assistance that meet the needs of the organic agriculture
community. The task force must consist of the following residents of the state:

(1) three new text begin organic new text end farmers deleted text begin using organic agriculture methods deleted text end ;

(2) one wholesaler or distributor of organic products;

(3) one representative of organic certification agencies;

(4) two organic processors;

(5) one representative from University of Minnesota Extension;

(6) one University of Minnesota faculty member;

(7) one representative from a nonprofit organization representing producers;

(8) two public members;

(9) one representative from the United States Department of Agriculture;

(10) one retailer of organic products; and

(11) one organic consumer representative.

The commissioner, in consultation with the director of the Minnesota Agricultural
Experiment Station; the dean and director of University of Minnesota Extension deleted text begin ; deleted text end and the
dean of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences new text begin , new text end shall appoint
members to serve deleted text begin staggered two-year deleted text end new text begin three-year new text end terms.

Compensation and removal of members are governed by section 15.059, subdivision
6. The task force must meet at least twice each year and expires on June 30, deleted text begin 2013 deleted text end new text begin 2016 new text end .

(d) For the purposes of expanding, improving, and developing production and
marketing of the organic products of Minnesota agriculture, the commissioner may
receive funds from state and federal sources and spend them, including through grants or
contracts, to assist producers and processors to achieve certification, to conduct education
or marketing activities, to enter into research and development partnerships, or to address
production or marketing obstacles to the growth and well-being of the industry.

(e) The commissioner may facilitate the registration of state organic production
and handling operations including those exempt from organic certification according to
Code of Federal Regulations, title 7, section 205.101, and certification agents operating
within the state.

Sec. 43.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 41A.10, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Cellulosic biofuel production goal.

The state cellulosic biofuel production
goal is one-quarter of the total amount necessary for deleted text begin ethanol deleted text end new text begin biofuel new text end use required under
section 239.791, subdivision deleted text begin 1a deleted text end new text begin 1 new text end , by 2015 or when cellulosic biofuel facilities in the state
attain a total annual production level of 60,000,000 gallons, whichever is first.

Sec. 44.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 41A.10, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Expiration. new text end

new text begin This section expires January 1, 2015.
new text end

Sec. 45.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 41A.105, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a.

Definitions.

For the purpose of this section:

new text begin (1) "biobased content" means a chemical, polymer, monomer, or plastic that is not
sold primarily for use as food, feed, or fuel and that has a biobased percentage of at least
51 percent as determined by testing representative samples using American Society for
Testing and Materials specification D6866;
new text end

new text begin (2) "biobased formulated product" means a product that is not sold primarily for use
as food, feed, or fuel and that has a biobased content percentage of at least ten percent
as determined by testing representative samples using American Society for Testing
and Materials specification D6866, or that contains a biobased chemical constituent
that displaces a known hazardous or toxic constituent previously used in the product
formulation;
new text end

deleted text begin (1) deleted text end new text begin (3) new text end "biobutanol facility" means a facility at which biobutanol is produced; and

deleted text begin (2) deleted text end new text begin (4) new text end "biobutanol" means fermentation isobutyl alcohol that is derived from
agricultural products, including potatoes, cereal grains, cheese whey, and sugar beets;
forest products; or other renewable resources, including residue and waste generated
from the production, processing, and marketing of agricultural products, forest products,
and other renewable resources.

Sec. 46.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 41A.105, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Duties.

The board shall research and report to the commissioner of
agriculture and to the legislature recommendations as to how the state can invest its
resources to most efficiently achieve energy independence, agricultural and natural
resources sustainability, and rural economic vitality. The board shall:

(1) examine the future of fuels, such as synthetic gases, biobutanol, hydrogen,
methanol, biodiesel, and ethanol within Minnesota;

new text begin (2) examine the opportunity for biobased content and biobased formulated product
production at integrated biorefineries or stand alone facilities using agricultural and
forestry feedstocks;
new text end

deleted text begin (2) deleted text end new text begin (3) new text end develop equity grant programs to assist locally owned facilities;

deleted text begin (3) deleted text end new text begin (4) new text end study the proper role of the state in creating financing and investing and
providing incentives;

deleted text begin (4) deleted text end new text begin (5) new text end evaluate how state and federal programs, including the Farm Bill, can best
work together and leverage resources;

deleted text begin (5) deleted text end new text begin (6) new text end work with other entities and committees to develop a clean energy program;
and

deleted text begin (6) deleted text end new text begin (7) new text end report to the legislature before February 1 each year with recommendations
as to appropriations and results of past actions and projects.

Sec. 47.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 41A.105, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Expiration.

This section expires June 30, deleted text begin 2014 deleted text end new text begin 2015 new text end .

Sec. 48.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 41A.12, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 3a. new text end

new text begin Grant awards. new text end

new text begin Grant projects may continue for up to three years.
Multiyear projects must be reevaluated by the commissioner before second- and third-year
funding is approved. A project is limited to one grant for its funding.
new text end

Sec. 49.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 41B.04, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9.

Restructured loan agreement.

(a) For a deferred restructured loan, all
payments on the primary and secondary principal, all payments of interest on the secondary
principal, and an agreed portion of the interest payable to the eligible agricultural lender
on the primary principal must be deferred to the end of the term of the loan.

(b) Interest on secondary principal must accrue at a below market interest rate.

(c) At the conclusion of the term of the restructured loan, the borrower owes primary
principal, secondary principal, and deferred interest on primary and secondary principal.
However, part of this balloon payment may be forgiven following an appraisal by the
lender and the authority to determine the current market value of the real estate subject to
the mortgage. If the current market value of the land after appraisal is less than the amount
of debt owed by the borrower to the lender and authority on this obligation, that portion of
the obligation that exceeds the current market value of the real property must be forgiven
by the lender and the authority in the following order:

(1) deferred interest on secondary principal;

(2) secondary principal;

(3) deferred interest on primary principal;

(4) primary principal as provided in an agreement between the authority and the
lender; and

(5) accrued but not deferred interest on primary principal.

(d) For an amortized restructured loan, payments must include installments on
primary principal and interest on the primary principal. An amortized restructured loan
must be amortized over a time period and upon terms to be established by the authority by
rule.

(e) A borrower may prepay the restructured loan, with all primary and secondary
principal and interest and deferred interest at any time deleted text begin without prepayment penalty deleted text end .

(f) The authority may not participate in refinancing a restructured loan at the
conclusion of the restructured loan.

Sec. 50.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 41D.01, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Expiration.

This section expires on June 30, deleted text begin 2013 deleted text end new text begin 2018 new text end .

Sec. 51.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116J.437, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Definitions.

(a) For the purpose of this section, the following terms
have the meanings given.

(b) "Green economy" means products, processes, methods, technologies, or services
intended to do one or more of the following:

(1) increase the use of energy from renewable sources, including through achieving
the renewable energy standard established in section 216B.1691;

(2) achieve the statewide energy-savings goal established in section 216B.2401,
including energy savings achieved by the conservation investment program under section
216B.241;

(3) achieve the greenhouse gas emission reduction goals of section 216H.02,
subdivision 1, including through reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, as defined in
section 216H.01, subdivision 2, or mitigation of the greenhouse gas emissions through,
but not limited to, carbon capture, storage, or sequestration;

(4) monitor, protect, restore, and preserve the quality of surface waters, including
actions to further the purposes of the Clean Water Legacy Act as provided in section
114D.10, subdivision 1;

(5) expand the use of biofuels, including by expanding the feasibility or reducing the
cost of producing biofuels or the types of equipment, machinery, and vehicles that can
use biofuels, including activities to achieve the deleted text begin biofuels 25 by 2025 initiative in sections
41A.10, subdivision 2, and 41A.11 deleted text end new text begin petroleum replacement goal in section 239.7911 new text end ; or

(6) increase the use of green chemistry, as defined in section 116.9401.

For the purpose of clause (3), "green economy" includes strategies that reduce carbon
emissions, such as utilizing existing buildings and other infrastructure, and utilizing mass
transit or otherwise reducing commuting for employees.

Sec. 52.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 216E.12, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Contiguous land.

new text begin (a) new text end When private real property that is an agricultural or
nonagricultural homestead, nonhomestead agricultural land, rental residential property,
and both commercial and noncommercial seasonal residential recreational property, as
those terms are defined in section 273.13 is proposed to be acquired for the construction of
a site or route for a high-voltage transmission line with a capacity of 200 kilovolts or more
by eminent domain proceedings, the deleted text begin fee deleted text end owner deleted text begin , or when applicable, the fee owner with the
written consent of the contract for deed vendee, or the contract for deed vendee with the
written consent of the fee owner, deleted text end shall have the option to require the utility to condemn a
fee interest in any amount of contiguous deleted text begin , commercially viable deleted text end land which the owner deleted text begin or
vendee deleted text end wholly owns deleted text begin or has contracted to own deleted text end in undivided fee and elects in writing to
transfer to the utility within 60 days after receipt of the notice of the objects of the petition
filed pursuant to section 117.055. deleted text begin Commercial viability shall be determined without regard
to the presence of the utility route or site. deleted text end new text begin Within 60 days after receipt by the utility of
an owner's election to exercise this option, the utility shall provide written notice to the
owner of any objection the utility has to the owner's election, and if no objection is made
within that time, any objection shall be deemed waived. Within 90 days of the service of
an objection by the utility, the district court having jurisdiction over the eminent domain
proceeding shall hold a hearing to determine whether the utility's objection is upheld or
rejected. new text end The owner deleted text begin or, when applicable, the contract vendee deleted text end shall have only one such
option and may not expand or otherwise modify an election without the consent of the
utility. The required acquisition of land pursuant to this subdivision shall be considered
an acquisition for a public purpose and for use in the utility's business, for purposes of
chapter 117 and section 500.24, respectively; provided that a utility shall divest itself
completely of all such lands used for farming or capable of being used for farming not
later than the time it can receive the market value paid at the time of acquisition of lands
less any diminution in value by reason of the presence of the utility route or site. Upon
the owner's election made under this subdivision, the easement interest over and adjacent
to the lands designated by the owner to be acquired in fee, sought in the condemnation
petition for a right-of-way for a high-voltage transmission line with a capacity of 200
kilovolts or more shall automatically be converted into a fee taking.

new text begin (b) All rights and protections provided to an owner under chapter 117, including in
particular sections 117.031, 117.036, 117.186, and 117.52, apply to acquisition of land
or an interest in land under this section.
new text end

new text begin (c) Within 90 days of an owner's election under this subdivision to require the utility
to acquire land, or 90 days after a district court decision overruling a utility objection to an
election made pursuant to paragraph (a), the utility must make a written offer to acquire
that land and amend its condemnation petition to include the additional land.
new text end

new text begin (d) For purposes of this subdivision, "owner" means the fee owner or, when
applicable, the fee owner with the written consent of the contract for deed vendee or the
contract for deed vendee with the written consent of the fee owner.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment
and applies to eminent domain proceedings or actions pending or commenced on or after
that date. "Commenced" means when service of notice of the petition under Minnesota
Statutes, section 117.055, is made.
new text end

Sec. 53.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 223.17, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 7a. new text end

new text begin Bond requirements; claims. new text end

new text begin For entities licensed under this chapter
and chapter 232, the bond requirements and claims against the bond are governed under
section 232.22, subdivision 6a.
new text end

Sec. 54.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 232.22, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 6a. new text end

new text begin Bond determinations. new text end

new text begin If a public grain warehouse operator is licensed
under both this chapter and chapter 223, the warehouse shall have its bond determined
by its gross annual grain purchase amount or its annual average grain storage value,
whichever is greater. For those entities licensed under this chapter and chapter 223, the
entire bond shall be available to any claims against the bond for claims filed under this
chapter and chapter 223.
new text end

Sec. 55.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 239.051, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 1a. new text end

new text begin Advanced biofuel. new text end

new text begin "Advanced biofuel" has the meaning given in Public
Law 110-140, title 2, subtitle A, section 201.
new text end

Sec. 56.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 239.051, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 5a. new text end

new text begin Biofuel. new text end

new text begin "Biofuel" means a renewable fuel with an approved pathway
under authority of the federal Energy Policy Act of 2005, Public Law 109-58, as amended
by the federal Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, Public Law 110–140, and
approved for sale by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. As such, biofuel
includes both advanced and conventional biofuels.
new text end

Sec. 57.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 239.051, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 7a. new text end

new text begin Conventional biofuel. new text end

new text begin "Conventional biofuel" means ethanol derived
from cornstarch, as defined in Public Law 110-140, title 2, subtitle A, section 201.
new text end

Sec. 58.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 239.791, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Minimum deleted text begin ethanol deleted text end new text begin biofuel new text end content required.

(a) Except as provided
in subdivisions 10 to 14, a person responsible for the product shall ensure that all gasoline
sold or offered for sale in Minnesota must contain at least the quantity of deleted text begin ethanol deleted text end new text begin biofuel
new text end required by clause (1) or (2), deleted text begin whichever is greater deleted text end new text begin at the option of the person responsible
for the product new text end :

(1) new text begin the greater of:
new text end

new text begin (i) new text end 10.0 percent deleted text begin denatured ethanol deleted text end new text begin conventional biofuel new text end by volume; or

deleted text begin (2) deleted text end new text begin (ii) new text end the maximum percent of deleted text begin denatured ethanol deleted text end new text begin conventional biofuel new text end by volume
authorized in a waiver granted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency new text begin ; or
new text end

new text begin (2) 10.0 percent of a biofuel, other than a conventional biofuel, by volume authorized
in a waiver granted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency or a biofuel
formulation registered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under
United States Code, title 42, section 7545 new text end .

(b) For purposes of enforcing the deleted text begin minimum ethanol deleted text end requirement of paragraph
(a), clause (1), new text begin item (i), or clause (2), new text end a deleted text begin gasoline/ethanol deleted text end new text begin gasoline/biofuel new text end blend will be
construed to be in compliance if the deleted text begin ethanol deleted text end new text begin biofuel new text end content, exclusive of denaturants and
other permitted components, comprises not less than 9.2 percent by volume and not more
than 10.0 percent by volume of the blend as determined by an appropriate United States
Environmental Protection Agency or American Society of Testing Materials standard
method of analysis deleted text begin of alcohol/ether content in engine fuels deleted text end .

(c) deleted text begin The provisions of this subdivision are suspended during any period of time that
subdivision 1a, paragraph (a), is in effect. deleted text end new text begin The aggregate amount of biofuel blended
pursuant to this subdivision may be any biofuel; however, conventional biofuel must
comprise no less than the portion specified on and after the specified dates:
new text end

new text begin (1) new text end	new text begin July 1, 2013 new text end	new text begin 90 percent new text end
new text begin (2) new text end	new text begin January 1, 2015 new text end	new text begin 80 percent new text end
new text begin (3) new text end	new text begin January 1, 2017 new text end	new text begin 70 percent new text end
new text begin (4) new text end	new text begin January 1, 2020 new text end	new text begin 60 percent new text end
new text begin (5) new text end	new text begin January 1, 2025 new text end	new text begin no minimum new text end

Sec. 59.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 239.791, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a.

Federal Clean Air Act waivers; conditions.

(a) Before a waiver granted
by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under deleted text begin section 211(f)(4) of the
Clean Air Act, deleted text end United States Code, title 42, section 7545, deleted text begin subsection (f), paragraph (4),
deleted text end may alter the minimum content level required by subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause deleted text begin (2),
or subdivision 1a, paragraph (a), clause (2) deleted text end new text begin (1), item (ii) new text end , the waiver must:

(1) apply to all gasoline-powered motor vehicles irrespective of model year; and

(2) allow for special regulatory treatment of Reid vapor pressure under Code of
Federal Regulations, title 40, section 80.27, paragraph (d), for blends of gasoline and
ethanol up to the maximum percent of denatured ethanol by volume authorized under
the waiver.

(b) The minimum deleted text begin ethanol deleted text end new text begin biofuel new text end requirement in subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause
(2), deleted text begin or subdivision 1a, paragraph (a), clause (2), deleted text end shall, upon the grant of the federal waiver
new text begin or authority specified in United States Code, title 42, section 7545, that allows for greater
blends of gasoline and biofuel in this state new text end , be effective the day after the commissioner
of commerce publishes notice in the State Register. In making this determination, the
commissioner shall consider the amount of time required by refiners, retailers, pipeline
and distribution terminal companies, and other fuel suppliers, acting expeditiously, to
make the operational and logistical changes required to supply fuel in compliance with
the minimum deleted text begin ethanol deleted text end new text begin biofuel new text end requirement.

Sec. 60.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 239.791, subdivision 2b, is amended to read:

Subd. 2b.

Limited liability waiver.

No motor fuel shall be deemed to be a defective
product by virtue of the fact that the motor fuel is formulated or blended pursuant to
the requirements of subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (2), deleted text begin or subdivision 1a, deleted text end under
any theory of liability except for simple or willful negligence or fraud. This subdivision
does not preclude an action for negligent, fraudulent, or willful acts. This subdivision
does not affect a person whose liability arises under chapter 115, water pollution control;
115A, waste management; 115B, environmental response and liability; 115C, leaking
underground storage tanks; or 299J, pipeline safety; under public nuisance law for damage
to the environment or the public health; under any other environmental or public health
law; or under any environmental or public health ordinance or program of a municipality
as defined in section 466.01.

Sec. 61.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 239.7911, is amended to read:

239.7911 PETROLEUM REPLACEMENT PROMOTION.

Subdivision 1.

Petroleum replacement goal.

The tiered petroleum replacement
goal of the state of Minnesota is that new text begin biofuel comprises at least the specified portion of
total gasoline sold or offered for sale in this state by each specified year new text end :

deleted text begin (1) at least 20 percent of the liquid fuel sold in the state is derived from renewable
sources by December 31, 2015; and
deleted text end

deleted text begin (2) at least 25 percent of the liquid fuel sold in the state is derived from renewable
sources by December 31, 2025.
deleted text end

new text begin (1) new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end	new text begin 14 percent new text end
new text begin (2) new text end	new text begin 2017 new text end	new text begin 18 percent new text end
new text begin (3) new text end	new text begin 2020 new text end	new text begin 25 percent new text end
new text begin (4) new text end	new text begin 2025 new text end	new text begin 30 percent new text end

Subd. 2.

Promotion of renewable liquid fuels.

(a) The commissioner of agriculture,
in consultation with the commissioners of commerce and the Pollution Control Agency,
shall identify and implement activities necessary deleted text begin for the widespread use of renewable
liquid fuels in the state deleted text end new text begin to achieve the goals in subdivision 1 new text end . Beginning November
1, 2005, and continuing through 2015, the commissioners, or their designees, shall
deleted text begin work with deleted text end new text begin convene a task force pursuant to section 15.014 that includes new text end representatives
from the renewable fuels industry, petroleum retailers, refiners, automakers, small
engine manufacturers, and other interested groups deleted text begin , to deleted text end new text begin . The task force shall assist the
commissioners in carrying out the activities in paragraph (b) and eliminating barriers to the
use of greater biofuel blends in this state. The task force must coordinate efforts with the
NextGen Energy Board, the biodiesel task force, and the Renewable Energy Roundtable
and new text end develop annual recommendations for administrative and legislative action.

(b) The activities of the commissioners under this subdivision shall include, but not
be limited to:

(1) developing recommendations for new text begin specific, cost-effective new text end incentives new text begin necessary
to expedite the use of greater biofuel blends in this state including, but not limited to,
incentives new text end for retailers to install equipment necessary deleted text begin for dispensing deleted text end new text begin to dispense new text end renewable
liquid fuels to the public;

(2) expanding the renewable-fuel options available to Minnesota consumers by
obtaining federal approval for the use of deleted text begin E20 and deleted text end additional blends that contain a greater
percentage of deleted text begin ethanol, including but not limited to E30 and E50, as gasoline deleted text end new text begin biofuel new text end ;

(3) developing recommendations deleted text begin for ensuring deleted text end new text begin to ensure new text end that motor vehicles and
small engine equipment have access to an adequate supply of fuel;

(4) working with the owners and operators of large corporate automotive fleets in the
state to increase their use of renewable fuels; deleted text begin and
deleted text end

(5) working to maintain an affordable retail price for liquid fuels new text begin ;
new text end

new text begin (6) facilitating the production and use of advanced biofuels in this state; and
new text end

new text begin (7) developing procedures for reporting the amount and type of biofuel under
subdivision 1 and section 239.791, subdivision 1, paragraph (c) new text end .

new text begin (c) Notwithstanding section 15.014, the task force required under paragraph (a)
expires on December 31, 2015.
new text end

Sec. 62.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 296A.01, is amended by adding a
subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 8b. new text end

new text begin Biobutanol. new text end

new text begin "Biobutanol" means isobutyl alcohol produced by
fermenting agriculturally generated organic material that is to be blended with gasoline
and meets either:
new text end

new text begin (1) the initial ASTM Standard Specification for Butanol for Blending with Gasoline
for Use as an Automotive Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel once it has been released by ASTM
for general distribution; or
new text end

new text begin (2) in the absence of an ASTM standard specification, the following list of
requirements:
new text end

new text begin (i) visually free of sediment and suspended matter;
new text end

new text begin (ii) clear and bright at the ambient temperature of 21 degrees Celsius or the ambient
temperature, whichever is higher;
new text end

new text begin (iii) free of any adulterant or contaminant that can render it unacceptable for its
commonly used applications;
new text end

new text begin (iv) contains not less than 96 volume percent isobutyl alcohol;
new text end

new text begin (v) contains not more than 0.4 volume percent methanol;
new text end

new text begin (vi) contains not more than 1.0 volume percent water as determined by ASTM
standard test method E203 or E1064;
new text end

new text begin (vii) acidity (as acetic acid) of not more than 0.007 mass percent as determined
by ASTM standard test method D1613;
new text end

new text begin (viii) solvent washed gum content of not more than 5.0 milligrams per 100 milliliters
as determined by ASTM standard test method D381;
new text end

new text begin (ix) sulfur content of not more than 30 parts per million as determined by ASTM
standard test method D2622 or D5453; and
new text end

new text begin (x) contains not more than four parts per million total inorganic sulfate.
new text end

Sec. 63.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 296A.01, subdivision 19, is amended to read:

Subd. 19.

E85.

"E85" means a petroleum product that is a blend of agriculturally
derived denatured ethanol and gasoline or natural gasoline that deleted text begin typically deleted text end contains new text begin not more
than new text end 85 percent ethanol by volume, but at a minimum must contain deleted text begin 60 deleted text end new text begin 51 new text end percent ethanol by
volume. For the purposes of this chapter, the energy content of E85 will be considered to be
82,000 BTUs per gallon. E85 produced for use as a motor fuel in alternative fuel vehicles
as defined in subdivision 5 must comply with ASTM specification deleted text begin D5798-07 deleted text end new text begin D5798-11 new text end .

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment.
new text end

Sec. 64. new text begin REVISOR'S INSTRUCTION.
new text end

new text begin The revisor of statutes shall renumber Minnesota Statutes, section 18B.01,
subdivision 4a, as subdivision 4b and correct any cross-references.
new text end

Sec. 65. new text begin REPEALER.
new text end

new text begin Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 18.91, subdivisions 3 and 5; 18B.07, subdivision
6; and 239.791, subdivision 1a, new text end new text begin are repealed.
new text end

ARTICLE 3

ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES APPROPRIATIONS

Section 1. new text begin SUMMARY OF APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The amounts shown in this section summarize direct appropriations, by fund, made
in this article.
new text end

		new text begin 2014 new text end		new text begin 2015 new text end		new text begin Total new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 87,464,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 87,843,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 175,307,000 new text end
new text begin State Government Special Revenue new text end		new text begin 75,000 new text end		new text begin 75,000 new text end		new text begin 150,000 new text end
new text begin Environmental new text end		new text begin 68,680,000 new text end		new text begin 68,825,000 new text end		new text begin 137,505,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end		new text begin 91,724,000 new text end		new text begin 94,184,000 new text end		new text begin 185,908,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end		new text begin 91,372,000 new text end		new text begin 91,372,000 new text end		new text begin 182,744,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end		new text begin 10,596,000 new text end		new text begin 10,596,000 new text end		new text begin 21,192,000 new text end
new text begin Permanent School new text end		new text begin 200,000 new text end		new text begin 200,000 new text end		new text begin 400,000 new text end
new text begin Special Revenue new text end		new text begin 1,422,000 new text end		new text begin 1,377,000 new text end		new text begin 2,799,000 new text end
new text begin Total new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 351,533,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 354,472,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 706,005,000 new text end

Sec. 2. new text begin ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are appropriated to the
agencies and for the purposes specified in this article. The appropriations are from the
general fund, or another named fund, and are available for the fiscal years indicated
for each purpose. The figures "2014" and "2015" used in this article mean that the
appropriations listed under them are available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, or
June 30, 2015, respectively. "The first year" is fiscal year 2014. "The second year" is fiscal
year 2015. "The biennium" is fiscal years 2014 and 2015. Appropriations for the fiscal
year ending June 30, 2013, are effective the day following final enactment.
new text end

			new text begin APPROPRIATIONS new text end
			new text begin Available for the Year new text end
			new text begin Ending June 30 new text end
				new text begin 2014 new text end		new text begin 2015 new text end

Sec. 3. new text begin POLLUTION CONTROL AGENCY new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end new text begin Total Appropriation new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 85,806,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 85,931,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 5,133,000 new text end	new text begin 5,158,000 new text end
new text begin State Government Special Revenue new text end	new text begin 75,000 new text end	new text begin 75,000 new text end
new text begin Special Revenue new text end	new text begin 1,422,000 new text end	new text begin 1,377,000 new text end
new text begin Environmental new text end	new text begin 68,680,000 new text end	new text begin 68,825,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin 10,496,000 new text end	new text begin 10,496,000 new text end

new text begin The amounts that may be spent for each
purpose are specified in the following
subdivisions.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end new text begin Water new text end

new text begin 24,697,000 new text end

new text begin 24,697,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 3,737,000 new text end	new text begin 3,737,000 new text end
new text begin State Government Special Revenue new text end	new text begin 75,000 new text end	new text begin 75,000 new text end
new text begin Environmental new text end	new text begin 20,885,000 new text end	new text begin 20,885,000 new text end

new text begin $1,378,000 the first year and $1,378,000 the
second year are for water program operations.
new text end

new text begin $1,959,000 the first year and $1,959,000
the second year are for grants to delegated
counties to administer the county feedlot
program under Minnesota Statutes, section
116.0711, subdivisions 2 and 3. By January
15, 2016, the commissioner shall submit a
report detailing the results achieved with
this appropriation to the chairs and ranking
minority members of the senate and house
of representatives committees and divisions
with jurisdiction over environment and
natural resources policy and finance. Money
remaining after the first year is available for
the second year.
new text end

new text begin $740,000 the first year and $740,000 the
second year are from the environmental
fund to address the need for continued
increased activity in the areas of new
technology review, technical assistance
for local governments, and enforcement
under Minnesota Statutes, sections 115.55
to 115.58, and to complete the requirements
of Laws 2003, chapter 128, article 1, section
165.
new text end

new text begin $400,000 the first year and $400,000
the second year are for the clean water
partnership program. Any unexpended
balance in the first year does not cancel but
is available in the second year. Priority shall
be given to projects preventing impairments
and degradation of lakes, rivers, streams,
and groundwater according to Minnesota
Statutes, section 114D.20, subdivision 2,
clause (4).
new text end

new text begin $664,000 the first year and $664,000 the
second year are from the environmental
fund for subsurface sewage treatment
system (SSTS) program administration
and community technical assistance and
education, including grants and technical
assistance to communities for water quality
protection. Of this amount, $80,000 each
year is for assistance to counties through
grants for SSTS program administration.
A county receiving a grant from this
appropriation shall submit a report detailing
the results achieved with the grant to the
commissioner. The county is not eligible for
funds from the second year appropriation
until the commissioner receives the report.
Any unexpended balance in the first year does
not cancel but is available in the second year.
new text end

new text begin $105,000 the first year and $105,000 the
second year are from the environmental fund
for registration of wastewater laboratories.
new text end

new text begin $50,000 the first year is from the
environmental fund for providing technical
assistance to local units of government to
address the water quality impacts from
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons resulting
from the use of coal tar products as regulated
under Minnesota Statutes, section 116.201.
new text end

new text begin $313,000 the first year and $313,000 the
second year are from the environmental
fund to be transferred to the commissioner
of health to continue perfluorochemical
biomonitoring in eastern metropolitan
communities, as recommended by the
Environmental Health Tracking and
Biomonitoring Advisory Panel.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
16A.28, the appropriations encumbered on or
before June 30, 2015, as grants or contracts
for SSTS's, surface water and groundwater
assessments, total maximum daily loads,
storm water, and water quality protection in
this subdivision are available until June 30,
2018.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end new text begin Air new text end

new text begin 15,031,000 new text end

new text begin 15,201,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin Environmental new text end	new text begin 15,031,000 new text end	new text begin 15,201,000 new text end

new text begin $200,000 the first year and $200,000 the
second year are from the environmental fund
for a monitoring program under Minnesota
Statutes, section 116.454.
new text end

new text begin Up to $150,000 the first year and $150,000
the second year may be transferred from the
environmental fund to the small business
environmental improvement loan account
established in Minnesota Statutes, section
116.993.
new text end

new text begin $125,000 the first year and $125,000 the
second year are from the environmental fund
for monitoring ambient air for hazardous
pollutants in the metropolitan area.
new text end

new text begin $360,000 the first year and $360,000 the
second year are from the environmental fund
for systematic, localized monitoring efforts
in the state that:
new text end

new text begin (1) sample ambient air for a period of one to
three months at various sites;
new text end

new text begin (2) analyze the samples and compare the data
to the agency's fixed air monitoring sites; and
new text end

new text begin (3) determine whether significant localized
differences exist.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner, when selecting areas to
monitor, shall give priority to areas where low
income, indigenous American Indians, and
communities of color are disproportionately
impacted by pollution from highway traffic,
air traffic, and industrial sources to assist
with efforts to ensure environmental justice
for those areas. For the purposes of this
paragraph, "environmental justice" means the
fair treatment of people of all races, cultures,
and income levels in the development,
adoption, implementation, and enforcement
of environmental laws and policies.
new text end

new text begin $540,000 the first year and $540,000 the
second year are from the environmental
fund for emission reduction activities and
grants to small businesses and other nonpoint
emission reduction efforts. Any unexpended
balance in the first year does not cancel but is
available in the second year.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end new text begin Land new text end

new text begin 17,412,000 new text end

new text begin 17,412,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin Environmental new text end	new text begin 6,916,000 new text end	new text begin 6,916,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin 10,496,000 new text end	new text begin 10,496,000 new text end

new text begin All money for environmental response,
compensation, and compliance in the
remediation fund not otherwise appropriated
is appropriated to the commissioners of the
Pollution Control Agency and agriculture
for purposes of Minnesota Statutes, section
115B.20, subdivision 2, clauses (1), (2),
(3), (6), and (7). At the beginning of each
fiscal year, the two commissioners shall
jointly submit an annual spending plan
to the commissioner of management and
budget that maximizes the utilization of
resources and appropriately allocates the
money between the two departments. This
appropriation is available until June 30, 2015.
new text end

new text begin $3,616,000 the first year and $3,616,000 the
second year are from the remediation fund for
purposes of the leaking underground storage
tank program to protect the land. These same
annual amounts are transferred from the
petroleum tank fund to the remediation fund.
new text end

new text begin $252,000 the first year and $252,000 the
second year are from the remediation fund
for transfer to the commissioner of health for
private water supply monitoring and health
assessment costs in areas contaminated
by unpermitted mixed municipal solid
waste disposal facilities and drinking water
advisories and public information activities
for areas contaminated by hazardous releases.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end new text begin Environmental Assistance and Cross-Media new text end

new text begin 28,271,000 new text end

new text begin 28,201,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin Special Revenue new text end	new text begin 1,422,000 new text end	new text begin 1,377,000 new text end
new text begin Environmental new text end	new text begin 25,848,000 new text end	new text begin 25,823,000 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 1,001,000 new text end	new text begin 1,001,000 new text end

new text begin $14,450,000 the first year and $14,450,000
the second year are from the environmental
fund for SCORE grants to counties. Of
this amount, $14,250,000 each year is for
SCORE block grants and $200,000 each year
is for competitive grants.
new text end

new text begin $119,000 the first year and $119,000 the
second year are from the environmental
fund for environmental assistance grants
or loans under Minnesota Statutes, section
115A.0716. Any unencumbered grant and
loan balances in the first year do not cancel
but are available for grants and loans in the
second year.
new text end

new text begin $89,000 the first year and $89,000 the
second year are from the environmental fund
for duties related to harmful chemicals in
products under Minnesota Statutes, sections
116.9401 to 116.9407. Of this amount,
$57,000 each year is transferred to the
commissioner of health.
new text end

new text begin $600,000 the first year and $600,000 the
second year are from the environmental
fund to address environmental health risks.
Of this amount, $499,000 the first year and
$499,000 the second year are for transfer to
the Department of Health.
new text end

new text begin $312,000 the first year and $312,000 the
second year are from the general fund and
$188,000 the first year and $188,000 the
second year are from the environmental fund
for Environmental Quality Board operations
and support.
new text end

new text begin $75,000 the first year and $50,000 the second
year are from the environmental fund for
transfer to the Office of Administrative
Hearings to establish sanitary districts.
new text end

new text begin $1,422,000 the first year and $1,377,000 the
second year are from the special revenue
fund for the Environmental Quality Board to
lead an interagency team to provide technical
assistance regarding the mining, processing,
and transporting of silica sand and develop
the model standards and criteria required
under Minnesota Statutes, section 116C.99.
Of this amount, $266,000 the first year and
$263,000 the second year are for transfer to
the commissioner of health, $447,000 the
first year and $420,000 the second year are
for transfer to the commissioner of natural
resources, $5,000 the first year and $10,000
the second year are for transfer to the Board
of Water and Soil Resources, and $150,000
the first year and $140,000 the second year
are for transfer to the commissioner of
transportation. The members of the silica
sand technical assistance team representing
state entities shall be existing state employees
whenever possible. The costs of the technical
assistance team members directly related to
and necessary for the silica sand technical
assistance team may be paid for from this
appropriation.
new text end

new text begin $5,000 the first year is from the environmental
fund to prepare and submit a report to the
chairs and ranking minority members of
the senate and house of representatives
committees and divisions with jurisdiction
over the environment and natural resources,
by December 1, 2013, with recommendations
for a statewide recycling refund program
for beverage containers that achieves an 80
percent recycling rate.
new text end

new text begin All money deposited in the environmental
fund for the metropolitan solid waste
landfill fee in accordance with Minnesota
Statutes, section 473.843, and not otherwise
appropriated, is appropriated for the purposes
of Minnesota Statutes, section 473.844.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
16A.28, the appropriations encumbered on
or before June 30, 2015, as contracts or
grants for surface water and groundwater
assessments; environmental assistance
awarded under Minnesota Statutes, section
115A.0716; technical and research assistance
under Minnesota Statutes, section 115A.152;
technical assistance under Minnesota
Statutes, section 115A.52; and pollution
prevention assistance under Minnesota
Statutes, section 115D.04, are available until
June 30, 2017.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end new text begin Administrative Support new text end

new text begin 395,000 new text end

new text begin 420,000 new text end

new text begin The commissioner shall submit the agency's
budget for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 to
the legislature in a manner that allows
the legislature and public to understand
the outcomes that will be achieved with
the appropriations. The budget must be
structured so that a significantly larger
portion of the revenues from solid waste
taxes are spent on solid waste activities.
new text end

Sec. 4. new text begin NATURAL RESOURCES new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end new text begin Total Appropriation new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 236,783,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 239,514,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 59,707,000 new text end	new text begin 59,978,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 85,404,000 new text end	new text begin 87,864,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end	new text begin 91,372,000 new text end	new text begin 91,372,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin 100,000 new text end	new text begin 100,000 new text end
new text begin Permanent School new text end	new text begin 200,000 new text end	new text begin 200,000 new text end

new text begin The amounts that may be spent for each
purpose are specified in the following
subdivisions.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end new text begin Land and Mineral Resources Management new text end

new text begin 6,073,000 new text end

new text begin 6,073,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 722,000 new text end	new text begin 722,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 3,700,000 new text end	new text begin 3,700,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end	new text begin 1,451,000 new text end	new text begin 1,451,000 new text end
new text begin Permanent School new text end	new text begin 200,000 new text end	new text begin 200,000 new text end

new text begin $68,000 the first year and $68,000 the
second year are for minerals cooperative
environmental research, of which $34,000
the first year and $34,000 the second year are
available only as matched by $1 of nonstate
money for each $1 of state money. The
match may be cash or in-kind.
new text end

new text begin $251,000 the first year and $251,000 the
second year are for iron ore cooperative
research. Of this amount, $200,000 each year
is from the minerals management account
in the natural resources fund. $175,000 the
first year and $175,000 the second year are
available only as matched by $1 of nonstate
money for each $1 of state money. The match
may be cash or in-kind. Any unencumbered
balance from the first year does not cancel
and is available in the second year.
new text end

new text begin $2,779,000 the first year and $2,779,000
the second year are from the minerals
management account in the natural resources
fund for use as provided in Minnesota
Statutes, section 93.2236, paragraph (c),
for mineral resource management, projects
to enhance future mineral income, and
projects to promote new mineral resource
opportunities.
new text end

new text begin $200,000 the first year and $200,000 the
second year are from the state forest suspense
account in the permanent school fund to
accelerate land exchanges, land sales, and
commercial leasing of school trust lands and
to identify, evaluate, and lease construction
aggregate located on school trust lands. This
appropriation is to be used for securing
long-term economic return from the
school trust lands consistent with fiduciary
responsibilities and sound natural resources
conservation and management principles.
new text end

new text begin $145,000 the first year and $145,000
the second year are from the minerals
management account in the natural resources
fund for transfer to the commissioner of
administration for the school trust lands
director.
new text end

new text begin The appropriations in Laws 2007, chapter 57,
article 1, section 4, subdivision 2, as amended
by Laws 2009, chapter 37, article 1, section
60, and as extended in Laws 2011, First
Special Session chapter 2, article 1, section 4,
subdivision 2, for support of the land records
management system are available until spent.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end new text begin Ecological and Water Resources new text end

new text begin 29,227,000 new text end

new text begin 31,987,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 12,262,000 new text end	new text begin 12,262,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 12,902,000 new text end	new text begin 15,662,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end	new text begin 4,063,000 new text end	new text begin 4,063,000 new text end

new text begin $2,942,000 the first year and $2,942,000 the
second year are from the invasive species
account in the natural resources fund and
$3,706,000 the first year and $3,706,000 the
second year are from the general fund for
management, public awareness, assessment
and monitoring research, and water access
inspection to prevent the spread of invasive
species; management of invasive plants in
public waters; and management of terrestrial
invasive species on state-administered lands.
Of this amount, up to $200,000 each year
is from the invasive species account in the
natural resources fund for liability insurance
coverage for Asian carp deterrent barriers.
new text end

new text begin $5,000,000 the first year and $5,000,000 the
second year are from the water management
account in the natural resources fund for only
the purposes specified in Minnesota Statutes,
section 103G.27, subdivision 2. Of this
amount, $190,000 the first year and $170,000
the second year are for enhancements to
the online system for water appropriation
permits to account for preliminary approval
requirements and related water appropriation
permit activities.
new text end

new text begin $53,000 the first year and $53,000 the
second year are for a grant to the Mississippi
Headwaters Board for up to 50 percent of the
cost of implementing the comprehensive plan
for the upper Mississippi within areas under
the board's jurisdiction. By January 15, 2016,
the board shall submit a report detailing the
results achieved with this appropriation to
the commissioner and the chairs and ranking
minority members of the senate and house
of representatives committees and divisions
with jurisdiction over environment and
natural resources policy and finance.
new text end

new text begin $5,000 the first year and $5,000 the second
year are for payment to the Leech Lake Band
of Chippewa Indians to implement the band's
portion of the comprehensive plan for the
upper Mississippi.
new text end

new text begin $264,000 the first year and $264,000 the
second year are for grants for up to 50
percent of the cost of implementation of
the Red River mediation agreement. The
commissioner shall submit a report by
January 15, 2015, to the chairs of the
legislative committees having primary
jurisdiction over environment and natural
resources policy and finance on the
accomplishments achieved with the grants.
new text end

new text begin $1,643,000 the first year and $1,643,000
the second year are from the heritage
enhancement account in the game and
fish fund for only the purposes specified
in Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94,
paragraph (e), clause (1).
new text end

new text begin $1,223,000 the first year and $1,223,000 the
second year are from the nongame wildlife
management account in the natural resources
fund for the purpose of nongame wildlife
management. Notwithstanding Minnesota
Statutes, section 290.431, $100,000 the first
year and $100,000 the second year may
be used for nongame wildlife information,
education, and promotion.
new text end

new text begin $2,500,000 the first year and $5,260,000 the
second year are from the water management
account in the natural resources fund for the
following activities:
new text end

new text begin (1) installation of additional groundwater
monitoring wells;
new text end

new text begin (2) increased financial reimbursement
and technical support to soil and water
conservation districts or other local units
of government for groundwater level
monitoring;
new text end

new text begin (3) additional surface water monitoring and
analysis, including installation of monitoring
gauges;
new text end

new text begin (4) additional groundwater analysis to
assist with water appropriation permitting
decisions;
new text end

new text begin (5) additional permit application review
incorporating surface water and groundwater
technical analysis;
new text end

new text begin (6) enhancement of precipitation data and
analysis to improve the use of irrigation;
new text end

new text begin (7) enhanced information technology,
including electronic permitting and
integrated data systems; and
new text end

new text begin (8) increased compliance and monitoring.
new text end

new text begin $1,000,000 the first year and $1,000,000
the second year are for grants to local units
of government and tribes to prevent the
spread of aquatic invasive species, including
inspection and decontamination programs.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner, in cooperation with the
commissioner of agriculture, shall enforce
compliance with aquatic plant management
requirements regulating the control of
aquatic plants with pesticides and removal of
aquatic plants by mechanical means under
Minnesota Statutes, section 103G.615.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end new text begin Forest Management new text end

new text begin 34,310,000 new text end

new text begin 34,260,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 21,900,000 new text end	new text begin 21,850,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 11,123,000 new text end	new text begin 11,123,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end	new text begin 1,287,000 new text end	new text begin 1,287,000 new text end

new text begin $7,145,000 the first year and $7,145,000
the second year are for prevention,
presuppression, and suppression costs of
emergency firefighting and other costs
incurred under Minnesota Statutes, section
88.12. The amount necessary to pay for
presuppression and suppression costs during
the biennium is appropriated from the general
fund.
new text end

new text begin By January 15 of each year, the commissioner
of natural resources shall submit a report to
the chairs and ranking minority members
of the house of representatives and senate
committees and divisions having jurisdiction
over environment and natural resources
finance, identifying all firefighting costs
incurred and reimbursements received in
the prior fiscal year. These appropriations
may not be transferred. Any reimbursement
of firefighting expenditures made to the
commissioner from any source other than
federal mobilizations shall be deposited into
the general fund.
new text end

new text begin $11,123,000 the first year and $11,123,000
the second year are from the forest
management investment account in the
natural resources fund for only the purposes
specified in Minnesota Statutes, section
89.039, subdivision 2.
new text end

new text begin $1,287,000 the first year and $1,287,000
the second year are from the game and fish
fund to advance ecological classification
systems (ECS) scientific management tools
for forest and invasive species management.
This appropriation is from revenue deposited
in the game and fish fund under Minnesota
Statutes, section 297A.94, paragraph (e),
clause (1).
new text end

new text begin $580,000 the first year and $580,000 the
second year are for the Forest Resources
Council for implementation of the
Sustainable Forest Resources Act.
new text end

new text begin $250,000 the first year and $250,000 the
second year are for the FORIST system.
new text end

new text begin $50,000 the first year is for development of
a plan and recommendations, in consultation
with the University of Minnesota,
Department of Forest Resources, on utilizing
the state forest nurseries to: ensure the
long-term availability of ecologically
appropriate and genetically diverse native
forest seed and seedlings to support state
conservation projects and initiatives;
protect the genetic fitness and resilience of
native forest ecosystems; and support tree
improvement research to address evolving
pressures such as invasive species and
climate change. By December 31, 2013,
the commissioner shall submit a report with
the plan and recommendations to the chairs
and ranking minority members of the senate
and house of representatives committees
and divisions with jurisdiction over natural
resources. The report shall address funding
to improve state forest nursery and tree
improvement capabilities. The report shall
also provide updated recommendations from
those contained in the budget and financial
plan required under Laws 2011, First Special
Session chapter 2, article 4, section 30.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end new text begin Parks and Trails Management new text end

new text begin 68,202,000 new text end

new text begin 67,902,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 20,130,000 new text end	new text begin 20,130,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 45,813,000 new text end	new text begin 45,513,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end	new text begin 2,259,000 new text end	new text begin 2,259,000 new text end

new text begin $1,075,000 the first year and $1,075,000 the
second year are from the water recreation
account in the natural resources fund for
enhancing public water access facilities.
This appropriation is not available until the
commissioner develops and implements
design standards and best management
practices for public water access sites that
maintain and improve water quality by
avoiding shoreline erosion and runoff.
new text end

new text begin $300,000 the first year is from the water
recreation account in the natural resources
fund for construction of restroom facilities
at the public water access for Crane Lake
on Handberg Road. This is a onetime
appropriation and is available until the
construction is completed.
new text end

new text begin $5,740,000 the first year and $5,740,000 the
second year are from the natural resources
fund for state trail, park, and recreation area
operations. This appropriation is from the
revenue deposited in the natural resources
fund under Minnesota Statutes, section
297A.94, paragraph (e), clause (2).
new text end

new text begin $1,005,000 the first year and $1,005,000 the
second year are from the natural resources
fund for trail grants to local units of
government on land to be maintained for at
least 20 years for the purposes of the grants.
This appropriation is from the revenue
deposited in the natural resources fund
under Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94,
paragraph (e), clause (4). Any unencumbered
balance does not cancel at the end of the first
year and is available for the second year.
new text end

new text begin $8,424,000 the first year and $8,424,000
the second year are from the snowmobile
trails and enforcement account in the
natural resources fund for the snowmobile
grants-in-aid program. Any unencumbered
balance does not cancel at the end of the first
year and is available for the second year.
new text end

new text begin $1,460,000 the first year and $1,460,000 the
second year are from the natural resources
fund for the off-highway vehicle grants-in-aid
program. Of this amount, $1,210,000 each
year is from the all-terrain vehicle account;
$150,000 each year is from the off-highway
motorcycle account; and $100,000 each year
is from the off-road vehicle account. Any
unencumbered balance does not cancel at the
end of the first year and is available for the
second year.
new text end

new text begin $75,000 the first year and $75,000 the second
year are from the cross-country ski account
in the natural resources fund for grooming
and maintaining cross-country ski trails in
state parks, trails, and recreation areas.
new text end

new text begin $350,000 the first year and $350,000 the
second year are for prairie restorations in
state parks and trails located in various parts
of the state that are visible to the public under
the pollinator habitat program established
under Minnesota Statutes, section 84.973.
new text end

new text begin $250,000 the first year and $250,000 the
second year are from the state land and
water conservation account (LAWCON)
in the natural resources fund for priorities
established by the commissioner for eligible
state projects and administrative and
planning activities consistent with Minnesota
Statutes, section 84.0264, and the federal
Land and Water Conservation Fund Act.
Any unencumbered balance does not cancel
at the end of the first year and is available for
the second year.
new text end

new text begin The appropriation in Laws 2009, chapter
37, article 1, section 4, subdivision 5, from
the natural resources fund from the revenue
deposited under Minnesota Statutes, section
297A.94, paragraph (e), clause (4), for local
grants is available until June 30, 2014.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end new text begin Fish and Wildlife Management new text end

new text begin 62,775,000 new text end

new text begin 62,775,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 1,906,000 new text end	new text begin 1,906,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end	new text begin 60,869,000 new text end	new text begin 60,869,000 new text end

new text begin $8,167,000 the first year and $8,167,000
the second year are from the heritage
enhancement account in the game and fish
fund only for activities specified in Minnesota
Statutes, section 297A.94, paragraph (e),
clause (1). Notwithstanding Minnesota
Statutes, section 297A.94, five percent of
this appropriation may be used for expanding
hunter and angler recruitment and retention
activities that emphasize the recruitment and
retention of underrepresented groups.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
84.943, $13,000 the first year and $13,000
the second year from the critical habitat
private sector matching account may be used
to publicize the critical habitat license plate
match program.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end new text begin Enforcement new text end

new text begin 35,558,000 new text end

new text begin 35,558,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 4,375,000 new text end	new text begin 4,375,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 9,640,000 new text end	new text begin 9,640,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end	new text begin 21,443,000 new text end	new text begin 21,443,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin 100,000 new text end	new text begin 100,000 new text end

new text begin $1,638,000 the first year and $1,638,000 the
second year are from the general fund for
enforcement efforts to prevent the spread of
aquatic invasive species.
new text end

new text begin $1,450,000 the first year and $1,450,000
the second year are from the heritage
enhancement account in the game and
fish fund for only the purposes specified
in Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94,
paragraph (e), clause (1).
new text end

new text begin $250,000 the first year and $250,000 the
second year are for the conservation officer
pre-employment education program. Of this
amount, $30,000 each year is from the water
recreation account, $13,000 each year is
from the snowmobile account, and $20,000
each year is from the all-terrain vehicle
account in the natural resources fund; and
$187,000 each year is from the game and fish
fund, of which $17,000 each year is from
revenue deposited to the game and fish fund
under Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94,
paragraph (e), clause (1).
new text end

new text begin $1,082,000 the first year and $1,082,000 the
second year are from the water recreation
account in the natural resources fund for
grants to counties for boat and water safety.
Any unencumbered balance does not cancel
at the end of the first year and is available for
the second year.
new text end

new text begin $315,000 the first year and $315,000 the
second year are from the snowmobile
trails and enforcement account in the
natural resources fund for grants to local
law enforcement agencies for snowmobile
enforcement activities. Any unencumbered
balance does not cancel at the end of the first
year and is available for the second year.
new text end

new text begin $250,000 the first year and $250,000 the
second year are from the all-terrain vehicle
account for grants to qualifying organizations
to assist in safety and environmental
education and monitoring trails on public
lands under Minnesota Statutes, section
84.9011. Grants issued under this paragraph:
(1) must be issued through a formal
agreement with the organization; and
(2) must not be used as a substitute for
traditional spending by the organization.
By December 15 each year, an organization
receiving a grant under this paragraph shall
report to the commissioner with details on
expenditures and outcomes from the grant.
Of this appropriation, $25,000 each year
is for administration of these grants. Any
unencumbered balance does not cancel at the
end of the first year and is available for the
second year.
new text end

new text begin $510,000 the first year and $510,000
the second year are from the natural
resources fund for grants to county law
enforcement agencies for off-highway
vehicle enforcement and public education
activities based on off-highway vehicle use
in the county. Of this amount, $498,000 each
year is from the all-terrain vehicle account;
$11,000 each year is from the off-highway
motorcycle account; and $1,000 each year
is from the off-road vehicle account. The
county enforcement agencies may use
money received under this appropriation
to make grants to other local enforcement
agencies within the county that have a high
concentration of off-highway vehicle use.
Of this appropriation, $25,000 each year
is for administration of these grants. Any
unencumbered balance does not cancel at the
end of the first year and is available for the
second year.
new text end

new text begin $719,000 the first year and $719,000 the
second year are for development and
maintenance of a records management
system capable of providing real time data
with global positioning system information.
Of this amount, $480,000 each year is from
the general fund, $119,000 each year is
from the game and fish fund, and $120,000
each year is from the heritage enhancement
account in the game and fish fund.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end new text begin Operations Support new text end

new text begin 638,000 new text end

new text begin 959,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General Fund new text end	new text begin 318,000 new text end	new text begin 639,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 320,000 new text end	new text begin 320,000 new text end

new text begin $320,000 the first year and $320,000 the
second year are from the natural resources
fund for grants to be divided equally between
the city of St. Paul for the Como Park Zoo
and Conservatory and the city of Duluth
for the Duluth Zoo. This appropriation
is from the revenue deposited to the fund
under Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94,
paragraph (e), clause (5).
new text end

new text begin $300,000 the first year and $300,000 the
second year are from the special revenue fund
to improve data analytics. The commissioner
may bill the divisions of the agency an
appropriate share of costs associated with
this project. Any information technology
development, support, or costs necessary for
this project shall be incorporated into the
agency's service level agreement with and
paid to the Office of Enterprise Technology.
new text end

Sec. 5. new text begin BOARD OF WATER AND SOIL RESOURCES new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 13,472,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 13,502,000 new text end

new text begin $3,423,000 the first year and $3,423,000 the
second year are for natural resources block
grants to local governments. Grants must be
matched with a combination of local cash or
in-kind contributions. The base grant portion
related to water planning must be matched
by an amount as specified by Minnesota
Statutes, section 103B.3369. The board may
reduce the amount of the natural resources
block grant to a county by an amount equal to
any reduction in the county's general services
allocation to a soil and water conservation
district from the county's previous year
allocation when the board determines that
the reduction was disproportionate.
new text end

new text begin $3,116,000 the first year and $3,116,000
the second year are for grants requested
by soil and water conservation districts for
general purposes, nonpoint engineering, and
implementation of the reinvest in Minnesota
reserve program. Upon approval of the
board, expenditures may be made from these
appropriations for supplies and services
benefiting soil and water conservation
districts. Any district requesting a grant
under this paragraph shall maintain a Web
site that publishes, at a minimum, its annual
report, annual audit, annual budget, and
meeting notices and minutes.
new text end

new text begin $1,602,000 the first year and $1,662,000 the
second year are for the following cost-share
programs:
new text end

new text begin (1) $302,000 each year is for feedlot water
quality grants for feedlots under 300 animal
units in areas where there are impaired
waters;
new text end

new text begin (2) $1,200,000 each year is for soil and water
conservation district cost-sharing contracts
for erosion control, nutrient and manure
management, vegetative buffers, and water
quality management; and
new text end

new text begin (3) $100,000 each year is for county
cooperative weed management programs and
to restore native plants in selected invasive
species management sites by providing local
native seeds and plants to landowners for
implementation.
new text end

new text begin The board shall submit a report to the
commissioner of the Pollution Control
Agency on the status of subsurface sewage
treatment systems in order to ensure a single,
comprehensive inventory of the systems for
planning purposes.
new text end

new text begin $386,000 the first year and $386,000
the second year are for implementation,
enforcement, and oversight of the Wetland
Conservation Act.
new text end

new text begin $166,000 the first year and $166,000
the second year are to provide technical
assistance to local drainage management
officials and for the costs of the Drainage
Work Group.
new text end

new text begin $100,000 the first year and $100,000
the second year are for a grant to the
Red River Basin Commission for water
quality and floodplain management,
including administration of programs. This
appropriation must be matched by nonstate
funds. If the appropriation in either year is
insufficient, the appropriation in the other
year is available for it.
new text end

new text begin $120,000 the first year and $60,000
the second year are for grants to Area II
Minnesota River Basin Projects for floodplain
management. The area shall transition to a
watershed district by July 1, 2015.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
103C.501, the board may shift cost-share
funds in this section and may adjust the
technical and administrative assistance
portion of the grant funds to leverage
federal or other nonstate funds or to address
high-priority needs identified in local water
management plans or comprehensive water
management plans.
new text end

new text begin $450,000 the first year and $450,000 the
second year are for assistance and grants to
local governments to transition local water
management plans to a watershed approach
as provided for in Minnesota Statutes,
chapters 103B, 103C, 103D, and 114D.
new text end

new text begin $125,000 the first year and $125,000 the
second year are to implement internal control
policies and provide related oversight and
accountability for agency programs.
new text end

new text begin $310,000 the first year and $310,000 the
second year are to evaluate performance,
financial, and activity information for local
water management entities as prescribed in
Minnesota Statutes, section 103B.102.
new text end

new text begin The appropriations for grants in this
section are available until expended. If an
appropriation for grants in either year is
insufficient, the appropriation in the other
year is available for it.
new text end

Sec. 6. new text begin METROPOLITAN COUNCIL new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 8,890,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 8,890,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 3,220,000 new text end	new text begin 3,220,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 5,670,000 new text end	new text begin 5,670,000 new text end

new text begin $2,870,000 the first year and $2,870,000 the
second year are for metropolitan area regional
parks operation and maintenance according
to Minnesota Statutes, section 473.351.
new text end

new text begin $5,670,000 the first year and $5,670,000 the
second year are from the natural resources
fund for metropolitan area regional parks
and trails maintenance and operations. This
appropriation is from the revenue deposited
in the natural resources fund under Minnesota
Statutes, section 297A.94, paragraph (e),
clause (3).
new text end

new text begin $350,000 the first year and $350,000 the
second year are for grants to implementing
agencies to acquire and install solar energy
panels made in Minnesota in metropolitan
regional parks and trails. An implementing
agency receiving a grant under this
appropriation shall provide signage near
the solar equipment installed that provides
education on solar energy.
new text end

Sec. 7. new text begin CONSERVATION CORPS MINNESOTA new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 945,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 945,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 455,000 new text end	new text begin 455,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 490,000 new text end	new text begin 490,000 new text end

new text begin Conservation Corps Minnesota may receive
money appropriated from the natural
resources fund under this section only
as provided in an agreement with the
commissioner of natural resources.
new text end

Sec. 8. new text begin ZOOLOGICAL BOARD new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 5,637,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 5,690,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 5,477,000 new text end	new text begin 5,530,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end	new text begin 160,000 new text end	new text begin 160,000 new text end

new text begin $160,000 the first year and $160,000 the
second year are from the natural resources
fund from the revenue deposited under
Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94,
paragraph (e), clause (5).
new text end

ARTICLE 4

ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES POLICY

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 84.027, is amended by adding a
subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 19. new text end

new text begin Federal law compliance. new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding any law to the contrary,
the commissioner may establish, by written order, policies for the use and operation of
other power-driven mobility devices, as defined under Code of Federal Regulations, title
28, section 35.104, on lands and in facilities administered by the commissioner for the
purposes of implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act, United States Code, title
42, section 12101 et seq. These policies are exempt from the rulemaking provisions of
chapter 14 and section 14.386 does not apply.
new text end

Sec. 2.

new text begin [84.633] EXCHANGE OF ROAD EASEMENTS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Authority. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of natural resources, on behalf of
the state, may convey a road easement according to this section for access across state
land under the commissioner's jurisdiction in exchange for a road easement for access to
property owned by the United States, the state of Minnesota or any of its subdivisions, or a
private party. The exercise of the easement across state land must not cause significant
adverse environmental or natural resources management impacts.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Substantially equal acres. new text end

new text begin The acres covered by the state easement
conveyed by the commissioner must be substantially equal to the acres covered by the
easement being received by the commissioner. For purposes of this section, "substantially
equal" means that the acres do not differ by more than 20 percent. The commissioner's
finding of substantially equal acres is in lieu of an appraisal or other determination of
value of the lands.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin School trust lands. new text end

new text begin If the commissioner conveys a road easement over
school trust land to a nongovernmental entity, the term of the road easement is limited
to 50 years. The easement exchanged with the state may be limited to 50 years or may
be perpetual.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Terms and conditions. new text end

new text begin The commissioner may impose terms and
conditions of use as necessary and appropriate under the circumstances. The state may
accept an easement with similar terms and conditions as the state easement.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Survey. new text end

new text begin If the commissioner determines that a survey is required, the
governmental unit or private landowner shall pay to the commissioner a survey fee of not
less than one half of the cost of the survey as determined by the commissioner.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Application fee. new text end

new text begin When a private landowner or governmental unit, except
the state, presents to the commissioner an offer to exchange road easements, the private
landowner or governmental unit shall pay an application fee as provided under section
84.63 to cover reasonable costs for reviewing the application and preparing the easements.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Title. new text end

new text begin If the commissioner determines it is necessary to obtain an opinion
as to the title of the land being encumbered by the easement that will be received by the
commissioner, the governmental unit or private landowner shall submit an abstract of title
or other title information sufficient to determine possession of the land, improvements,
liens, encumbrances, and other matters affecting title.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Disposition of fees. new text end

new text begin (a) Any fee paid under subdivision 5 must be credited
to the account from which expenses are or will be paid and the fee is appropriated for the
expenditures in the same manner as other money in the account.
new text end

new text begin (b) Any fee paid under subdivision 6 must be deposited in the land management
account in the natural resources fund and is appropriated to the commissioner to cover the
reasonable costs incurred for preparing and issuing the state road easement and accepting
the road easement from the private landowner or governmental entity.
new text end

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 84.82, is amended by adding a subdivision to
read:

new text begin Subd. 2a. new text end

new text begin Limited nontrail use registration. new text end

new text begin A snowmobile may be registered for
limited nontrail use. A snowmobile registered under this subdivision may be used solely
for transportation on the frozen surface of public water for purposes of ice fishing and may
not otherwise be operated on a state or grant-in-aid snowmobile trail. The fee for a limited
nontrail use registration is $45 for three years. A limited nontrail use registration is not
transferable. In addition to other penalties prescribed by law, the penalty for violation of
this subdivision is immediate revocation of the limited nontrail use registration. The
commissioner shall ensure that the registration sticker provided for limited nontrail use is
of a different color and is distinguishable from other snowmobile registration and state
trail stickers provided.
new text end

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 84.922, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 14. new text end

new text begin No registration weekend. new text end

new text begin The commissioner shall designate by rule one
weekend each year when, notwithstanding subdivision 1, an all-terrain vehicle may be
operated on state and grant-in-aid all-terrain vehicle trails without a registration issued
under this section. Nonresidents may participate during the designated weekend without a
state trail pass required under section 84.9275.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment.
new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 84.9256, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Prohibitions on youthful operators.

(a) Except for operation on
public road rights-of-way that is permitted under section 84.928 new text begin and as provided under
paragraph (j) new text end , a driver's license issued by the state or another state is required to operate an
all-terrain vehicle along or on a public road right-of-way.

(b) A person under 12 years of age shall not:

(1) make a direct crossing of a public road right-of-way;

(2) operate an all-terrain vehicle on a public road right-of-way in the state; or

(3) operate an all-terrain vehicle on public lands or waters, except as provided in
paragraph (f).

(c) Except for public road rights-of-way of interstate highways, a person 12 years
of age but less than 16 years may make a direct crossing of a public road right-of-way
of a trunk, county state-aid, or county highway or operate on public lands and waters or
state or grant-in-aid trails, only if that person possesses a valid all-terrain vehicle safety
certificate issued by the commissioner and is accompanied by a person 18 years of age or
older who holds a valid driver's license.

(d) To be issued an all-terrain vehicle safety certificate, a person at least 12 years
old, but less than deleted text begin 16 deleted text end new text begin 18 new text end years old, must:

(1) successfully complete the safety education and training program under section
84.925, subdivision 1, including a riding component; and

(2) be able to properly reach and control the handle bars and reach the foot pegs
while sitting upright on the seat of the all-terrain vehicle.

(e) A person at least 11 years of age may take the safety education and training
program and may receive an all-terrain vehicle safety certificate under paragraph (d), but
the certificate is not valid until the person reaches age 12.

(f) A person at least ten years of age but under 12 years of age may operate an
all-terrain vehicle with an engine capacity up to 90cc on public lands or waters if
accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

(g) A person under 15 years of age shall not operate a class 2 all-terrain vehicle.

(h) A person under the age of 16 may not operate an all-terrain vehicle on public
lands or waters or on state or grant-in-aid trails if the person cannot properly reach and
control the handle bars and reach the foot pegs while sitting upright on the seat of the
all-terrain vehicle.

(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (c), a nonresident at least 12 years old, but less than
16 years old, may make a direct crossing of a public road right-of-way of a trunk, county
state-aid, or county highway or operate an all-terrain vehicle on public lands and waters
or state or grant-in-aid trails if:

(1) the nonresident youth has in possession evidence of completing an all-terrain
safety course offered by the ATV Safety Institute or another state as provided in section
84.925, subdivision 3; and

(2) the nonresident youth is accompanied by a person 18 years of age or older who
holds a valid driver's license.

new text begin (j) A person 12 years of age but less than 16 years of age may operate an all-terrain
vehicle on the bank, slope, or ditch of a public road right-of-way as permitted under
section 84.928 if the person:
new text end

new text begin (1) possesses a valid all-terrain vehicle safety certificate issued by the commissioner;
and
new text end

new text begin (2) is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian on a separate all-terrain vehicle.
new text end

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 84.928, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Operation on roads and rights-of-way.

(a) Unless otherwise
allowed in sections 84.92 to 84.928, a person shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle in
this state along or on the roadway, shoulder, or inside bank or slope of a public road
right-of-way of a trunk, county state-aid, or county highway.

(b) A person may operate a class 1 all-terrain vehicle in the ditch or the outside
bank or slope of a trunk, county state-aid, or county highway unless prohibited under
paragraph (d) or (f).

(c) A person may operate a class 2 all-terrain vehicle new text begin :
new text end

new text begin (1) new text end within the public road right-of-way of a county state-aid or county highway on
the extreme right-hand side of the road and left turns may be made from any part of
the road if it is safe to do so under the prevailing conditions, unless prohibited under
paragraph (d) or (f) deleted text begin . deleted text end new text begin ;
new text end

new text begin (2) on the bank, slope, or ditch of a public road right-of-way of a trunk highway,
but only to access businesses or make trail connections, and left turns may be made from
any part of the road if it is safe to do so under the prevailing conditions, unless prohibited
under paragraph (d) or (f); and
new text end

new text begin (3) new text end deleted text begin A person may operate a class 2 all-terrain vehicle deleted text end on the bank or ditch of a
public road right-of-way new text begin :
new text end

new text begin (i) new text end on a designated class 2 all-terrain vehicle trail deleted text begin . deleted text end new text begin ; or
new text end

new text begin (ii) to access businesses or make trail connections when operation within the public
road right-of-way is unsafe.
new text end

(d) A road authority as defined under section 160.02, subdivision 25, may after a
public hearing restrict the use of all-terrain vehicles in the public road right-of-way under
its jurisdiction.

(e) The restrictions in paragraphs (a), (d), (h), (i), and (j) do not apply to the
operation of an all-terrain vehicle on the shoulder, inside bank or slope, ditch, or outside
bank or slope of a trunk, interstate, county state-aid, or county highway:

(1) that is part of a funded grant-in-aid trail; or

(2) when the all-terrain vehicle is owned by or operated under contract with a publicly
or privately owned utility or pipeline company and used for work on utilities or pipelines.

(f) The commissioner may limit the use of a right-of-way for a period of time if the
commissioner determines that use of the right-of-way causes:

(1) degradation of vegetation on adjacent public property;

(2) siltation of waters of the state;

(3) impairment or enhancement to the act of taking game; or

(4) a threat to safety of the right-of-way users or to individuals on adjacent public
property.

The commissioner must notify the road authority as soon as it is known that a closure
will be ordered. The notice must state the reasons and duration of the closure.

(g) A person may operate an all-terrain vehicle registered for private use and used
for agricultural purposes on a public road right-of-way of a trunk, county state-aid, or
county highway in this state if the all-terrain vehicle is operated on the extreme right-hand
side of the road, and left turns may be made from any part of the road if it is safe to do so
under the prevailing conditions.

(h) A person shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle within the public road
right-of-way of a trunk, county state-aid, or county highway from April 1 to August 1 in
the agricultural zone unless the vehicle is being used exclusively as transportation to and
from work on agricultural lands. This paragraph does not apply to an agent or employee
of a road authority, as defined in section 160.02, subdivision 25, or the Department of
Natural Resources when performing or exercising official duties or powers.

(i) A person shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle within the public road right-of-way
of a trunk, county state-aid, or county highway between the hours of one-half hour after
sunset to one-half hour before sunrise, except on the right-hand side of the right-of-way
and in the same direction as the highway traffic on the nearest lane of the adjacent roadway.

(j) A person shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle at any time within the
right-of-way of an interstate highway or freeway within this state.

Sec. 7.

new text begin [84.973] POLLINATOR HABITAT PROGRAM.
new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner shall develop best management practices and habitat
restoration guidelines for pollinator habitat enhancement. Best management practices
and guidelines developed under this section must be used for all projects on state lands
and must be a condition of any contract for habitat enhancement or restoration of lands
under the commissioner's control.
new text end

new text begin (b) Prairie restorations must include an appropriate diversity of native species
selected to provide habitat for pollinators throughout the growing season.
new text end

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 84D.108, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Permit requirements.

(a) Service providers must complete invasive
species training provided by the commissioner and pass an examination to qualify for a
permit. Service provider permits are valid for three calendar years.

(b) A $50 application and testing fee is required for service provider permit
applications.

(c) Persons working for a permittee must satisfactorily complete aquatic invasive
species-related training provided by the commissioner new text begin , except as provided under
paragraph (d) new text end .

new text begin (d) A person working for and supervised by a permittee is not required to complete
the training under paragraph (c) if the water-related equipment or other water-related
structures remain on the riparian property owned or controlled by the permittee and are
only removed from and placed into the same water of the state.
new text end

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85.015, subdivision 13, is amended to read:

Subd. 13.

Arrowhead Region Trails, Cook, Lake, St. Louis, Pine, Carlton,
Koochiching, and Itasca Counties.

(a)(1) The Taconite Trail shall originate at Ely in St.
Louis County and extend southwesterly to Tower in St. Louis County, thence westerly to
McCarthy Beach State Park in St. Louis County, thence southwesterly to Grand Rapids in
Itasca County and there terminate;

(2) The C. J. Ramstad/Northshore Trail shall originate in Duluth in St. Louis County
and extend northeasterly to Two Harbors in Lake County, thence northeasterly to Grand
Marais in Cook County, thence northeasterly to the international boundary in the vicinity
of the north shore of Lake Superior, and there terminate;

(3) The Grand Marais to International Falls Trail shall originate in Grand Marais
in Cook County and extend northwesterly, outside of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area,
to Ely in St. Louis County, thence southwesterly along the route of the Taconite Trail to
Tower in St. Louis County, thence northwesterly through the Pelican Lake area in St.
Louis County to International Falls in Koochiching County, and there terminate;

(4) The Matthew Lourey Trail shall originate in Duluth in St. Louis County and
extend southerly to deleted text begin St. Croix deleted text end new text begin Chengwatana new text end State Forest in Pine County.

(b) The trails shall be developed primarily for riding and hiking.

(c) In addition to the authority granted in subdivision 1, lands and interests in lands
for the Arrowhead Region trails may be acquired by eminent domain. Before acquiring
any land or interest in land by eminent domain the commissioner of administration shall
obtain the approval of the governor. The governor shall consult with the Legislative
Advisory Commission before granting approval. Recommendations of the Legislative
Advisory Commission shall be advisory only. Failure or refusal of the commission to
make a recommendation shall be deemed a negative recommendation.

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85.052, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

State park reservation system.

new text begin (a) new text end The commissioner may, by written
order, develop reasonable reservation policies for campsites and other lodging. These
policies are exempt from rulemaking provisions under chapter 14 and section 14.386
does not apply.

new text begin (b) The revenue collected from the state park reservation fee established under
subdivision 5, including interest earned, shall be deposited in the state park account in the
natural resources fund and is annually appropriated to the commissioner for the cost of
the state park reservation system.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective retroactively from March 1, 2012.
new text end

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85.054, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 18. new text end

new text begin La Salle Lake State Recreation Area. new text end

new text begin A state park permit is not
required and a fee may not be charged for motor vehicle entry, use, or parking in La
Salle Lake State Recreation Area unless the occupants of the vehicle enter, use, or park
in a developed overnight or day-use area.
new text end

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85.055, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Fees.

The fee for state park permits for:

(1) an annual use of state parks is $25;

(2) a second or subsequent vehicle state park permit is $18;

(3) a state park permit valid for one day is $5;

(4) a daily vehicle state park permit for groups is $3;

(5) an annual permit for motorcycles is $20;

(6) an employee's state park permit is without charge; and

(7) a state park permit for disabled persons under section 85.053, subdivision 7,
clauses (1) deleted text begin and (2) deleted text end new text begin to (3) new text end , is $12.

The fees specified in this subdivision include any sales tax required by state law.

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85.055, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Fee deposit and appropriation.

The fees collected under this section shall
be deposited in the natural resources fund and credited to the state parks account. Money
in the account, except for the electronic licensing system commission established by the
commissioner under section 84.027, subdivision 15, new text begin and the state park reservation system
fee established by the commissioner under section 85.052, subdivisions 5 and 6, new text end is available
for appropriation to the commissioner to operate and maintain the state park system.

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85.42, is amended to read:

85.42 USER FEE; VALIDITY.

(a) The fee for an annual cross-country ski pass is $19 for an individual age 16 and
over. The fee for a three-year pass is $54 for an individual age 16 and over. This fee
shall be collected at the time the pass is purchased. Three-year passes are valid for three
years beginning the previous July 1. Annual passes are valid for one year beginning
the previous July 1.

(b) The cost for a daily cross-country skier pass is $5 for an individual age 16 and
over. This fee shall be collected at the time the pass is purchased. The daily pass is valid
only for the date designated on the pass form.

(c) A pass must be signed by the skier across the front of the pass to be valid and
becomes nontransferable on signing.

new text begin (d) The commissioner and agents shall issue a duplicate pass to a person whose pass
is lost or destroyed, using the process established under section 97A.405, subdivision 3,
and rules adopted thereunder. The fee for a duplicate cross-country ski pass is $2.
new text end

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 89.0385, is amended to read:

89.0385 FOREST MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT ACCOUNT; COST
CERTIFICATION.

(a) deleted text begin After each fiscal year, deleted text end The commissioner shall certify the total costs incurred for
forest management, forest improvement, and road improvement on state-managed lands
during that year. The commissioner shall distribute forest management receipts credited to
various accounts according to this section.

(b) The amount of the certified costs incurred for forest management activities on
state lands shall be transferred from the account where receipts are deposited to the forest
management investment account in the natural resources fund, except for those costs
certified under section 16A.125. new text begin Transfers may occur quarterly, based on quarterly cost and
revenue reports, throughout the fiscal year, with final certification and reconciliation after
each fiscal year. new text end Transfers in a fiscal year cannot exceed receipts credited to the account.

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 89.17, is amended to read:

89.17 LEASES AND PERMITS.

(a) Notwithstanding the permit procedures of chapter 90, the commissioner shall
have power to grant and execute, in the name of the state, leases and permits for the use of
any forest lands under the authority of the commissioner for any purpose which in the
commissioner's opinion is not inconsistent with the maintenance and management of the
forest lands, on forestry principles for timber production. Every such lease or permit shall
be revocable at the discretion of the commissioner at any time subject to such conditions
as may be agreed on in the lease. The approval of the commissioner of administration
shall not be required upon any such lease or permit. No such lease or permit for a period
exceeding 21 years shall be granted except with the approval of the Executive Council.

(b) Public access to the leased land for outdoor recreation shall be the same as
access would be under state management.

(c) new text begin The commissioner shall, by written order, establish the schedule of application
fees for all leases issued under this section. Notwithstanding section 16A.1285, subdivision
2, the application fees shall be set at a rate that neither significantly overrecovers nor
underrecovers costs, including overhead costs, involved in providing the services at the
time of issuing the leases. The commissioner shall update the schedule of application fees
every five years. The schedule of application fees and any adjustment to the schedule are
not subject to the rulemaking provisions of chapter 14 and section 14.386 does not apply.
new text end

new text begin (d) Money received under paragraph (c) must be deposited in the land management
account in the natural resources fund and is appropriated to the commissioner to cover the
reasonable costs incurred for issuing leases.
new text end

new text begin (e) new text end Notwithstanding section 16A.125, subdivision 5, after deducting the deleted text begin reasonable
costs incurred for preparing and issuing the lease deleted text end new text begin application fee paid according to
paragraph (c) new text end , all remaining proceeds from the leasing of school trust land and university
land for roads on forest lands must be deposited into the respective permanent fund for
the lands.

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.01, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Scaler.

"Scaler" means a qualified bonded person designated by the
commissioner to measure new text begin timber and new text end cut forest products.

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.01, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

State appraiser.

"State appraiser" means an employee of the department
designated by the commissioner to appraise state lands new text begin , which includes, but is not limited
to, timber and other forest resource products, for volume, quality, and value new text end .

Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.01, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Timber.

"Timber" means trees new text begin , shrubs, or woody plants, new text end that will produce
forest products of value whether standing or down, and including but not limited to logs,
new text begin sawlogs, new text end posts, poles, bolts, pulpwood, cordwood, new text begin fuelwood, woody biomass, new text end lumber new text begin ,
new text end and new text begin woody new text end decorative material.

Sec. 20.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.01, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

Permit holder.

"Permit holder" means the person deleted text begin holding deleted text end new text begin who is the
signatory of new text end a permit to cut timber on state lands.

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.01, subdivision 11, is amended to read:

Subd. 11.

Effective permit.

"Effective permit" means a permit for which the
commissioner has on file full or partial deleted text begin surety deleted text end new text begin security new text end as required by section 90.161 deleted text begin , deleted text end new text begin or
new text end 90.162 deleted text begin , 90.163, or 90.173 deleted text end or, in the case of permits issued according to section 90.191 or
90.195, the commissioner has received a down payment equal to the full appraised value.

Sec. 22.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.031, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Timber rules.

The Executive Council may formulate and establish, from
time to time, rules it deems advisable for the transaction of timber business of the state,
including approval of the sale of timber on any tract in a lot exceeding deleted text begin 6,000 deleted text end new text begin 12,000 new text end cords
in volume when the sale is in the best interests of the state, and may abrogate, modify,
or suspend rules at its pleasure.

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.041, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Trespass on state lands.

The commissioner may compromise and settle,
with deleted text begin the approval of deleted text end new text begin notification to new text end the attorney general, upon terms the commissioner
deems just, any claim of the state for casual and involuntary trespass upon state lands or
timber; provided that no claim shall be settled for less than the full value of all timber
or other materials taken in casual trespass or the full amount of all actual damage or
loss suffered by the state as a result. new text begin Upon request, new text end the commissioner shall advise the
Executive Council of any information acquired by the commissioner concerning any
trespass on state lands, giving all details and names of witnesses and all compromises and
settlements made under this subdivision.

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.041, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Forest improvement contracts.

The commissioner may contract as part
of the timber sale with the purchaser of state timber at either informal or auction sale
for deleted text begin the following deleted text end forest improvement work to be done on the land included within the
sale area deleted text begin : deleted text end new text begin . Forest improvement work may include activities relating to new text end preparation of
the site for seeding or planting of seedlings or trees, seeding or planting of seedlings or
trees, and other activities deleted text begin relating deleted text end new text begin related new text end to forest regeneration new text begin or deemed necessary by
the commissioner to accomplish forest management objectives, including those related
to water quality protection, trail development, and wildlife habitat enhancement new text end . A
contract issued under this subdivision is not subject to the competitive bidding provisions
of chapter 16C and is exempt from the contract approval provisions of section 16C.05,
subdivision 2. new text begin The bid value received in the sale of the timber and the contract bid
cost of the improvement work may be combined and the total value may be considered
by the commissioner in awarding forest improvement contracts under this section.
The commissioner may refuse to accept any and all bids received and cancel a forest
improvement contract sale for good and sufficient reasons.
new text end

Sec. 25.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.041, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Sale of damaged timber.

The commissioner may sell at public auction
timber that has been damaged by fire, windstorm, flood, new text begin insect, disease, new text end or other natural
cause on notice that the commissioner considers reasonable when there is a high risk that
the salvage value of the timber would be lost.

Sec. 26.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.041, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9.

Reoffering unsold timber.

deleted text begin To maintain and enhance forest ecosystems on
state forest lands, deleted text end The commissioner may reoffer timber tracts remaining unsold under the
provisions of section 90.101 below appraised value at public auction with the required
30-day notice under section 90.101, subdivision 2.

Sec. 27.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.041, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Fees. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner may establish a fee schedule that covers the
commissioner's cost of issuing, administering, and processing various permits, permit
modifications, transfers, assignments, amendments, and other transactions necessary to the
administration of activities under this chapter.
new text end

new text begin (b) A fee established under this subdivision is not subject to the rulemaking
provisions of chapter 14 and section 14.386 does not apply. The commissioner may
establish fees under this subdivision notwithstanding section 16A.1283.
new text end

Sec. 28.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.041, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 11. new text end

new text begin Debarment. new text end

new text begin The commissioner may debar a permit holder if the holder
is convicted in Minnesota at the gross misdemeanor or felony level of criminal willful
trespass, theft, fraud, or antitrust violation involving state, federal, county, or privately
owned timber in Minnesota or convicted in any other state involving similar offenses and
penalties for timber owned in that state. The commissioner shall cancel and repossess the
permit directly involved in the prosecution of the crime. The commissioner shall cancel
and repossess all other state timber permits held by the permit holder after taking from
all security deposits money to which the state is entitled. The commissioner shall return
the remainder of the security deposits, if any, to the permit holder. The debarred permit
holder is prohibited from bidding, possessing, or being employed on any state timber
permit during the period of debarment. The period of debarment is not less than one year
or greater than three years. The duration of the debarment is based on the severity of the
violation, past history of compliance with timber permits, and the amount of loss incurred
by the state arising from violations of timber permits.
new text end

Sec. 29.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.045, is amended to read:

90.045 APPRAISAL STANDARDS.

By July 1, 1983, the commissioner shall establish specific timber appraisal standards
according to which all timber appraisals will be conducted under this chapter. The
standards shall include a specification of the maximum allowable appraisal sampling error,
deleted text begin and deleted text end new text begin including new text end the procedures for tree defect allowance, tract area estimation, product
volume estimation, and product value determination. The timber appraisal standards shall
be included in each edition of the timber sales manual published by the commissioner. In
addition to the duties pursuant to section 90.061, every state appraiser shall work within
the guidelines of the timber appraisal standards. The standards shall not be subject to
the rulemaking provisions of chapter 14.

Sec. 30.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.061, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

Appraiser authority; form of documents.

State appraisers are
empowered, with the consent of the commissioner, to perform any scaling, and generally
to supervise the cutting and removal of timber new text begin and forest products new text end on or from state lands
so far as may be reasonably necessary to insure compliance with the terms of the permits
or other contracts governing the same and protect the state from loss.

The form of appraisal reports, records, and notes to be kept by state appraisers
shall be as the commissioner prescribes.

Sec. 31.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.101, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Sale requirements.

The commissioner may sell the timber on any
tract of state land and may determine the number of sections or fractional sections of land
to be included in the permit area covered by any one permit issued to the purchaser of
timber on state lands, or in any one contract or other instrument relating thereto. No
timber shall be sold, except (1) to the highest responsible bidder at public auction, or
(2) if unsold at public auction new text begin , new text end the commissioner may offer the timber for private sale
for a period of no more than deleted text begin six months deleted text end new text begin one year new text end after the public auction to any deleted text begin person
deleted text end new text begin responsible bidder new text end who pays the appraised value for the timber. The minimum price shall
be the appraised value as fixed by the report of the state appraiser. Sales may include tracts
in more than one contiguous county or forestry administrative area and shall be held either
in the county or forestry administrative area in which the tract is located or in an adjacent
county or forestry administrative area that is nearest the tract offered for sale or that is
most accessible to potential bidders. In adjoining counties or forestry administrative areas,
sales may not be held less than two hours apart.

Sec. 32.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.121, is amended to read:

90.121 INTERMEDIATE AUCTION SALES; MAXIMUM LOTS OF 3,000
CORDS.

(a) The commissioner may sell the timber on any tract of state land in lots not
exceeding 3,000 cords in volume, in the same manner as timber sold at public auction under
section 90.101, and related laws, subject to the following special exceptions and limitations:

(1) the commissioner shall offer all tracts authorized for sale by this section
separately from the sale of tracts of state timber made pursuant to section 90.101;

(2) no bidder may be awarded more than 25 percent of the total tracts offered at the
first round of bidding unless fewer than four tracts are offered, in which case not more than
one tract shall be awarded to one bidder. Any tract not sold at public auction may be offered
for private sale as authorized by section 90.101, subdivision 1, new text begin 30 days after the auction new text end to
deleted text begin persons deleted text end new text begin responsible bidders new text end eligible under this section at the appraised value; and

(3) no sale may be made to a deleted text begin person deleted text end new text begin responsible bidder new text end having more than 30
employees. For the purposes of this clause, "employee" means an individual working in
the timber or wood products industry for salary or wages on a full-time or part-time basis.

(b) The auction sale procedure set forth in this section constitutes an additional
alternative timber sale procedure available to the commissioner and is not intended to
replace other authority possessed by the commissioner to sell timber in lots of 3,000
cords or less.

(c) Another bidder or the commissioner may request that the number of employees a
bidder has pursuant to paragraph (a), clause (3), be confirmed new text begin by signed affidavit new text end if there is
evidence that the bidder may be ineligible due to exceeding the employee threshold. The
commissioner shall request information from the commissioners of labor and industry and
employment and economic development including the premiums paid by the bidder in
question for workers' compensation insurance coverage for all employees of the bidder.
The commissioner shall review the information submitted by the commissioners of labor
and industry and employment and economic development and make a determination based
on that information as to whether the bidder is eligible. A bidder is considered eligible and
may participate in intermediate auctions until determined ineligible under this paragraph.

Sec. 33.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.145, is amended to read:

90.145 PURCHASER QUALIFICATIONS deleted text begin AND deleted text end new text begin , new text end REGISTRATION new text begin , AND
REQUIREMENTS new text end .

Subdivision 1.

Purchaser deleted text begin qualifications deleted text end new text begin requirements new text end .

(a) In addition to any other
requirements imposed by this chapter, the purchaser of a state timber permit issued under
section 90.151 must meet the requirements in paragraphs (b) to deleted text begin (d) deleted text end new text begin (e) new text end .

(b) The purchaser deleted text begin and deleted text end new text begin or new text end the purchaser's agents, employees, subcontractors, and
assigns new text begin conducting logging operations on the timber permit new text end must comply with general
industry safety standards for logging adopted by the commissioner of labor and industry
under chapter 182. The commissioner of natural resources deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin may new text end require a purchaser
to provide proof of compliance with the general industry safety standards.

(c) The purchaser deleted text begin and deleted text end new text begin or new text end the purchaser's agents, subcontractors, and assigns
new text begin conducting logging operations on the timber permit new text end must comply with the mandatory
insurance requirements of chapter 176. The commissioner deleted text begin shall deleted text end new text begin may new text end require a purchaser
to provide a copy of the proof of insurance required by section 176.130 before the start of
harvesting operations on any permit.

(d) Before the start of harvesting operations on any permit, the purchaser must certify
that a foreperson or other designated employee who has a current certificate of completion new text begin ,
new text end new text begin which includes instruction in site-level forest management guidelines or best management
practices, new text end from the Minnesota Logger Education Program (MLEP), the Wisconsin Forest
Industry Safety and Training Alliance (FISTA), or any similar new text begin continuous education
new text end program acceptable to the commissioner, is supervising active logging operations.

new text begin (e) The purchaser and the purchaser's agents, employees, subcontractors, and assigns
who will be involved with logging or scaling state timber must be in compliance with
this chapter.
new text end

Subd. 2.

Purchaser deleted text begin preregistration deleted text end new text begin registration new text end .

To facilitate the sale of permits
issued under section 90.151, the commissioner may establish a deleted text begin purchaser preregistration
deleted text end new text begin registration new text end system new text begin to verify the qualifications of a person as a responsible bidder to
purchase a timber permit new text end . Any system implemented by the commissioner shall be limited
in scope to only that information that is required for the efficient administration of the
purchaser qualification deleted text begin provisions deleted text end new text begin requirements new text end of this chapter deleted text begin and shall conform with the
requirements of chapter 13. deleted text end new text begin The registration system established under this subdivision is
not subject to the rulemaking provisions of chapter 14 and section 14.386 does not apply.
new text end

Sec. 34.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.151, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Issuance; expiration.

(a) Following receipt of the down payment
for state timber required under section 90.14 or 90.191, the commissioner shall issue a
numbered permit to the purchaser, in a form approved by the attorney general, by the
terms of which the purchaser shall be authorized to enter upon the land, and to cut and
remove the timber therein described as designated for cutting in the report of the state
appraiser, according to the provisions of this chapter. The permit shall be correctly
dated and executed by the commissioner and signed by the purchaser. If a permit is not
signed by the purchaser within deleted text begin 60 deleted text end new text begin 45 new text end days from the date of purchase, the permit cancels
and the down payment for timber required under section 90.14 forfeits to the state. The
commissioner may grant an additional period for the purchaser to sign the permit, not to
exceed deleted text begin five deleted text end new text begin ten new text end business days, provided the purchaser pays a deleted text begin $125 deleted text end new text begin $200 new text end penalty fee.

(b) The permit shall expire no later than five years after the date of sale as the
commissioner shall specify or as specified under section 90.191, and the timber shall
be cut new text begin and removed new text end within the time specified therein. deleted text begin All cut timber, equipment, and
buildings not removed from the land within 90 days after expiration of the permit shall
become the property of the state. deleted text end new text begin If additional time is needed, the permit holder must
request, prior to the expiration date, and may be granted, for good and sufficient reasons,
up to 90 additional days for the completion of skidding, hauling, and removing all
equipment and buildings. All cut timber, equipment, and buildings not removed from the
land after expiration of the permit becomes the property of the state.
new text end

(c) The commissioner may grant an additional period of time not to exceed deleted text begin 120 deleted text end new text begin 240
new text end days for the removal of cut timber, equipment, and buildings upon receipt of deleted text begin such deleted text end new text begin a written
new text end request by the permit holder for good and sufficient reasons. deleted text begin The commissioner may grant
a second period of time not to exceed 120 days for the removal of cut timber, equipment,
and buildings upon receipt of a request by the permit holder for hardship reasons only.
deleted text end new text begin The permit holder may combine in the written request under this paragraph the request
for additional time under paragraph (b).
new text end

Sec. 35.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.151, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Permit requirements.

The permit shall state the amount of timber
estimated for cutting on the land, the estimated value thereof, and the price at which it is
sold new text begin in units of new text end per thousand feet, per cord, per piece, new text begin per ton, new text end or by whatever description
sold, and shall specify that all landings of cut products shall be legibly marked with the
assigned permit number. The permit shall provide for the continuous identification
new text begin and control new text end of the cut timber from the time of cutting until delivery to the consumer.
The permit shall provide that failure to continuously identify the timber as specified in
the permit constitutes trespass.

Sec. 36.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.151, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Security provisions.

The permit shall contain such provisions as may be
necessary to secure to the state the title of all timber cut thereunder wherever found until
full payment therefor and until all provisions of the permit have been fully complied
with. The permit shall provide that from the date deleted text begin the same becomes effective deleted text end new text begin cutting
commences new text end until the expiration deleted text begin thereof deleted text end new text begin of the permit new text end , including all extensions, the
purchaser and successors in interest shall be liable to the state for the full permit price of
all timber covered thereby, notwithstanding any subsequent damage or injury thereto or
trespass thereon or theft thereof, and without prejudice to the right of the state to pursue
such timber and recover the value thereof anywhere prior to the payment therefor in full to
the state. new text begin If an effective permit is forfeited prior to any cutting activity, the purchaser is
liable to the state for a sum equal to the down payment and bid guarantee. new text end Upon recovery
from any person other than the permit holder, the permit holder shall be deemed released
to the extent of the net amount, after deducting all expenses of collecting same, recovered
by the state from such other person.

Sec. 37.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.151, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Permit terms.

new text begin Once a permit becomes effective and cutting commences,
the permit holder is liable to the state for the permit price for all timber required to be cut,
including timber not cut. new text end The permit shall provide that all timber sold or designated for
cutting shall be cut deleted text begin without deleted text end new text begin in such a manner so as not to cause new text end damage to other timber;
that the permit holder shall remove all timber authorized new text begin and designated new text end to be cut under
the permit; that timber sold by deleted text begin board deleted text end measure new text begin identified in the permit, new text end but later determined
by the commissioner not to be convertible into deleted text begin board deleted text end new text begin the permit's new text end measure new text begin , new text end shall be paid
for by the piece or cord or other unit of measure according to the size, species, or value, as
may be determined by the commissioner; new text begin and new text end that all timber products, except as specified
by the commissioner, shall be scaled and the final settlement for the timber cut shall be
made on this scale deleted text begin ; and that the permit holder shall pay to the state the permit price for
all timber authorized to be cut, including timber not cut deleted text end .

Sec. 38.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.151, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Notice and approval required.

The permit shall provide that the permit
holder shall not start cutting any state timber nor clear deleted text begin building sites deleted text end new text begin landings new text end nor logging
roads until the commissioner has been notified and has given prior approval to such
cutting operations. Approval shall not be granted until the permit holder has completed
a presale conference with the state appraiser designated to supervise the cutting. The
permit holder shall also give prior notice whenever permit operations are to be temporarily
halted, whenever permit operations are to be resumed, and when permit operations are to
be completed.

Sec. 39.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.151, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Liability for timber cut in trespass.

The permit shall provide that the
permit holder shall pay the permit price value for any timber sold which is negligently
destroyed or damaged by the permit holder in cutting or removing other timber sold. If the
permit holder shall cut or remove or negligently destroy or damage any timber upon the
land described, not sold under the permit, except such timber as it may be necessary to cut
and remove in the construction of necessary logging roads and landings approved as to
location and route by the commissioner, such timber shall be deemed to have been cut in
trespass. The permit holder shall be liable for any such timber and recourse may be had
upon the deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security deposit new text end .

Sec. 40.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.151, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

Suspension; cancellation.

The permit shall provide that the commissioner
shall have the power to order suspension of all operations under the permit when deleted text begin in the
commissioner's judgment deleted text end the conditions thereof have not been complied with and any
timber cut or removed during such suspension shall be deemed to have been cut in trespass;
that the commissioner may cancel the permit at any time deleted text begin when in the commissioner's
judgment the conditions thereof have not been complied with deleted text end new text begin due to a breach of the permit
conditions new text end and such cancellation shall constitute repossession of the timber by the state;
that the permit holder shall remove equipment and buildings from such land within 90 days
after such cancellation; that, if the purchaser at any time fails to pay any obligations to the
state under any other permits, any or all permits may be canceled; and that any timber new text begin cut
or new text end removed in violation of the terms of the permit or of any law shall constitute trespass.

Sec. 41.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.151, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9.

Slashings disposal.

The permit shall provide that the permit holder shall
deleted text begin burn or otherwise deleted text end dispose of new text begin or treat new text end all slashings or other refuse resulting from cutting
operations new text begin , as specified in the permit, new text end in the manner now or hereafter provided by law.

Sec. 42.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.161, is amended to read:

90.161 deleted text begin SURETY BONDS FOR AUCTION deleted text end new text begin SECURITY DEPOSITS
REQUIRED FOR EFFECTIVE new text end TIMBER PERMITS.

Subdivision 1.

deleted text begin Bond deleted text end new text begin Security deposit new text end required.

new text begin (a) new text end Except as otherwise provided
by law, the purchaser of any state timber, before any timber permit becomes effective for
any purpose, shall give deleted text begin a deleted text end good and valid deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security in the form of cash; a certified
check; a cashier's check; a postal, bank, or express money order; a corporate surety bond;
or an irrevocable bank letter of credit new text end to the state of Minnesota equal to the value of all
timber covered or to be covered by the permit, as shown by the sale price bid and the
appraisal report as to quantity, less the amount of any payments pursuant to deleted text begin sections
deleted text end new text begin section new text end 90.14 deleted text begin and 90.163 deleted text end .

new text begin (b) new text end The deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security deposit new text end shall be conditioned upon the faithful performance
by the purchaser and successors in interest of all terms and conditions of the permit and
all requirements of law in respect to timber sales. The deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security deposit new text end shall be
approved in writing by the commissioner and filed for record in the commissioner's office.

new text begin (c) new text end deleted text begin In the alternative to cash and bond requirements, but upon the same conditions,
deleted text end A purchaser may post bond for 100 percent of the purchase price and request refund of the
amount of any payments pursuant to deleted text begin sections deleted text end new text begin section new text end 90.14 deleted text begin and 90.163 deleted text end . The commissioner
may credit the refund to any other permit held by the same permit holder if the permit is
delinquent as provided in section 90.181, subdivision 2, or may credit the refund to any
other permit to which the permit holder requests that it be credited.

new text begin (d) In the event of a default, the commissioner may take from the deposit the sum of
money to which the state is entitled. The commissioner shall return the remainder of the
deposit, if any, to the person making the deposit. When cash is deposited as security, it
shall be applied to the amount due when a statement is prepared and transmitted to the
permit holder according to section 90.181. Any balance due to the state shall be shown on
the statement and shall be paid as provided in section 90.181. Any amount of the deposit
in excess of the amount determined to be due according to section 90.181 shall be returned
to the permit holder when a final statement is transmitted under section 90.181. All or
part of a cash deposit may be withheld from application to an amount due on a nonfinal
statement if it appears that the total amount due on the permit will exceed the bid price.
new text end

new text begin (e) If an irrevocable bank letter of credit is provided as security under paragraph
(a), at the written request of the permittee, the commissioner shall annually allow the
amount of the bank letter of credit to be reduced by an amount proportionate to the value
of timber that has been harvested and for which the state has received payment under the
timber permit. The remaining amount of the bank letter of credit after a reduction under
this paragraph must not be less than the value of the timber remaining to be harvested
under the timber permit.
new text end

new text begin (f) If cash; a certified check; a cashier's check; a personal check; or a postal, bank, or
express money order is provided as security under paragraph (a) and no cutting of state
timber has taken place on the permit, the commissioner may credit the security provided,
less any deposit required under section 90.14, to any other permit to which the permit
holder requests in writing that it be credited.
new text end

Subd. 2.

Failure to deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin provide security deposit new text end .

If deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin the security deposit new text end is
not furnished, no harvesting may occur and deleted text begin the down payment for timber deleted text end new text begin 15 percent of the
permit's purchase price new text end shall forfeit to the state new text begin when the permit expires new text end .

Subd. 3.

Subrogation.

deleted text begin In case of default deleted text end new text begin When security is provided by surety
bond and the permit holder defaults new text end in payment deleted text begin by the permit holder deleted text end new text begin , new text end the surety upon the
bond shall make payment in full to the state of all sums of money due under such permit;
and thereupon such surety shall be deemed immediately subrogated to all the rights of
the state in the timber so paid for; and such subrogated party may pursue the timber and
recover therefor, or have any other appropriate relief in relation thereto which the state
might or could have had if such surety had not made such payment. No assignment or
other writing on the part of the state shall be necessary to make such subrogation effective,
but the certificate signed by and bearing the official seal of the commissioner, showing the
amount of such timber, the lands from which it was cut or upon which it stood, and the
amount paid therefor, shall be prima facie evidence of such facts.

Subd. 4.

Change of security.

Prior to any deleted text begin harvest deleted text end new text begin cutting new text end activity, or activities
incidental to the preparation for harvest, a purchaser having posted a deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security deposit
new text end for 100 percent of the purchase price of a sale may request the release of the deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security
new text end and the commissioner shall grant the release deleted text begin upon cash payment to the commissioner of
15 percent of the appraised value of the sale, plus eight percent interest on the appraised
value of the sale from the date of purchase to the date of release deleted text end new text begin while retaining, or upon
repayment of, the permit's down payment and bid guarantee deposit requirement new text end .

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Return of security. new text end

new text begin Any security required under this section shall be
returned to the purchaser within 60 days after the final scale.
new text end

Sec. 43.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.162, is amended to read:

90.162 deleted text begin ALTERNATIVE TO BOND OR DEPOSIT REQUIREMENTS
deleted text end new text begin SECURING TIMBER PERMITS WITH CUTTING BLOCKS new text end .

In lieu of the deleted text begin bond or cash deleted text end new text begin security new text end deposit equal to the value of all timber covered
by the permit required by section 90.161 deleted text begin or 90.173 deleted text end , a purchaser of state timber may elect
in writing on a form prescribed by the attorney general to give good and valid surety to the
state of Minnesota equal to the purchase price for any designated cutting block identified
on the permit before the date the purchaser enters upon the land to begin harvesting the
timber on the designated cutting block.

Sec. 44.

new text begin [90.164] TIMBER PERMIT DEVELOPMENT OPTION.
new text end

new text begin With the completion of the presale conference requirement under section 90.151,
subdivision 6, a permit holder may access the permit area in advance of the permit being
fully secured as required by section 90.161, for the express purpose of clearing approved
landings and logging roads. No cutting of state timber except that incidental to the clearing
of approved landings and logging roads is allowed under this section.
new text end

Sec. 45.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.171, is amended to read:

90.171 ASSIGNMENT OF AUCTION TIMBER PERMITS.

Any permit sold at public auction may be assigned upon written approval of the
commissioner. The assignment of any permit shall be signed and acknowledged by the
permit holder. The commissioner shall not approve any assignment until the assignee has
new text begin been determined to meet the qualifications of a responsible bidder and has new text end given to the state
a deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security deposit new text end which shall be substantially in the form of, and shall be deemed
of the same effect as, the deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security deposit new text end required of the original purchaser. The
commissioner may accept deleted text begin the deleted text end new text begin an new text end agreement of the assignee and any corporate surety upon
deleted text begin such deleted text end new text begin an new text end original bond, substituting the assignee in the place of deleted text begin such deleted text end new text begin the new text end original purchaser
and continuing deleted text begin such deleted text end new text begin the new text end original bond in full force and effect, as to the assignee. Thereupon
but not otherwise the permit holder making the assignment shall be released from all
liability arising or accruing from actions taken after the assignment became effective.

Sec. 46.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.181, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Deferred payments.

(a) If the amount of the statement is not paid within
30 days of the date thereof, it shall bear interest at the rate determined pursuant to section
16A.124, except that the purchaser shall not be required to pay interest that totals $1 or
less. If the amount is not paid within 60 days, the commissioner shall place the account in
the hands of the commissioner of revenue according to chapter 16D, who shall proceed to
collect the same. When deemed in the best interests of the state, the commissioner shall
take possession of the timber for which an amount is due wherever it may be found and
sell the same informally or at public auction after giving reasonable notice.

(b) The proceeds of the sale shall be applied, first, to the payment of the expenses
of seizure and sale; and, second, to the payment of the amount due for the timber, with
interest; and the surplus, if any, shall belong to the state; and, in case a sufficient amount is
not realized to pay these amounts in full, the balance shall be collected by the attorney
general. Neither payment of the amount, nor the recovery of judgment therefor, nor
satisfaction of the judgment, nor the seizure and sale of timber, shall release the sureties
on any deleted text begin bond deleted text end new text begin security deposit new text end given pursuant to this chapter, or preclude the state from
afterwards claiming that the timber was cut or removed contrary to law and recovering
damages for the trespass thereby committed, or from prosecuting the offender criminally.

Sec. 47.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.191, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Sale requirements.

The commissioner may sell the timber on any
tract of state land in lots not exceeding 500 cords in volume, without formalities but for
not less than the full appraised value thereof, to any person. No sale shall be made under
this section to any person holding deleted text begin two deleted text end new text begin more than four new text end permits issued hereunder which are
still in effect deleted text begin ; deleted text end new text begin . new text end deleted text begin except that (1) a partnership as defined in chapter 323, which may include
spouses but which shall provide evidence that a partnership exists, may be holding two
permits for each of not more than three partners who are actively engaged in the business
of logging or who are the spouses of persons who are actively engaged in the business of
logging with that partnership; and (2) a corporation, a majority of whose shares and voting
power are owned by natural persons related to each other within the fourth degree of
kindred according to the rules of the civil law or their spouses or estates, may be holding
two permits for each of not more than three shareholders who are actively engaged in the
business of logging or who are the spouses of persons who are actively engaged in the
business of logging with that corporation.
deleted text end

Sec. 48.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.193, is amended to read:

90.193 EXTENSION OF TIMBER PERMITS.

The commissioner may, in the case of an exceptional circumstance beyond the
control of the timber permit holder which makes it unreasonable, impractical, and not
feasible to complete cutting and removal under the permit within the time allowed, grant
deleted text begin an deleted text end new text begin one regular new text end extension deleted text begin of deleted text end new text begin for new text end one year. A new text begin written new text end request for the new text begin regular new text end extension must
be received by the commissioner before the permit expires. The request must state the
reason the extension is necessary and be signed by the permit holder. An interest rate of
eight percent may be charged for the period of extension.

Sec. 49.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.195, is amended to read:

90.195 SPECIAL USE new text begin AND PRODUCT new text end PERMIT.

new text begin (a) new text end The commissioner may issue a permit to salvage or cut not to exceed 12 cords of
fuelwood per year for personal use from either or both of the following sources: (1) dead,
down, and deleted text begin diseased deleted text end new text begin damaged new text end trees; (2) other trees that are of negative value under good
forest management practices. The permits may be issued for a period not to exceed one
year. The commissioner shall charge a fee for the permit deleted text begin that shall cover the commissioner's
cost of issuing the permit and deleted text end new text begin as provided under section 90.041, subdivision 10. The fee
new text end shall not exceed the current market value of fuelwood of similar species, grade, and volume
that is being sold in the area where the salvage or cutting is authorized under the permit.

new text begin (b) The commissioner may issue a special product permit under section 89.42 for
commercial use, which may include incidental volumes of boughs, gravel, hay, biomass,
and other products derived from forest management activities. The value of the products
is the current market value of the products that are being sold in the area. The permit may
be issued for a period not to exceed one year and the commissioner shall charge a fee for
the permit as provided under section 90.041, subdivision 10.
new text end

new text begin (c) The commissioner may issue a special use permit for incidental volumes of
timber from approved right-of-way road clearing across state land for the purpose of
accessing a state timber permit. The permit shall include the volume and value of timber
to be cleared and may be issued for a period not to exceed one year. A presale conference
as required under section 90.151, subdivision 6, must be completed before the start of
any activities under the permit.
new text end

Sec. 50.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.201, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a.

Prompt payment of refunds.

Any refund of cash that is due to a permit
holder as determined on a final statement transmitted pursuant to section 90.181 or a
refund of cash made pursuant to section 90.161, subdivision 1, deleted text begin or 90.173, paragraph
(a), deleted text end shall be paid to the permit holder according to section 16A.124 unless the refund is
credited on another permit as provided in this chapter.

Sec. 51.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.211, is amended to read:

90.211 PURCHASE MONEY, WHEN FORFEITED.

If the holder of an effective permit new text begin begins to cut and then new text end fails to deleted text begin cut deleted text end new text begin complete new text end any
part deleted text begin thereof deleted text end new text begin of the permit new text end before the expiration of the permit, the permit holder shall
nevertheless pay the price therefor; but under no circumstances shall timber be cut after
the expiration of the permit or extension thereof.

Sec. 52.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.221, is amended to read:

90.221 TIMBER SALES RECORDS.

The commissioner shall keep timber sales records, including the description of each
tract of land from which any timber is sold; the date of the report of the state appraisers;
the kind, amount, and value of the timber as shown by such report; the date of the sale;
the price for which the timber was sold; the name of the purchaser; the number, date
of issuance and date of expiration of each permit; the date of any assignment of the
permit; the name of the assignee; the dates of the filing and the amounts of the respective
deleted text begin bonds deleted text end new text begin security deposits new text end by the purchaser and assignee; the names of the sureties thereon;
the amount of timber taken from the land; the date of the report of the scaler and state
appraiser; the names of the scaler and the state appraiser who scaled the timber; and the
amount paid for such timber and the date of payment.

Sec. 53.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.252, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Consumer scaling.

The commissioner may enter into an agreement
with either a timber sale permittee, or the purchaser of the cut products, or both, so
that the scaling of the cut timber and the collection of the payment for the same can be
consummated by the deleted text begin consumer deleted text end new text begin state new text end . Such an agreement shall be approved as to form and
content by the attorney general and shall provide for a bond or cash in lieu of a bond and
such other safeguards as are necessary to protect the interests of the state. The scaling
and payment collection procedure may be used for any state timber sale, except that no
permittee who is also the consumer shall both cut and scale the timber sold unless such
scaling is supervised by a state scaler.

Sec. 54.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.301, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Seizure of unlawfully cut timber.

The commissioner may take possession
of any timber hereafter unlawfully cut upon or taken from any land owned by the state
wherever found and may sell the same informally or at public auction after giving such
notice as the commissioner deems reasonable and after deducting all the expenses of such
sale the proceeds thereof shall be paid into the state treasury to the credit of the proper
fund; and when any timber so unlawfully cut has been intermingled with any other timber
or property so that it cannot be identified or plainly separated therefrom the commissioner
may so seize and sell the whole quantity so intermingled and, in such case, the whole
quantity of such timber shall be conclusively presumed to have been unlawfully taken
from state land. When the timber unlawfully cut or removed from state land is so seized
and sold new text begin , new text end the seizure shall not in any manner relieve the trespasser who cut or removed, or
caused the cutting or removal of, any such timber from the full liability imposed by this
chapter for the trespass so committed, but the net amount realized from such sale shall
be credited on whatever judgment is recovered against such trespasser new text begin , if the trespass
was deemed to be casual and involuntary new text end .

Sec. 55.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.301, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Apprehension of trespassers; reward.

The commissioner may offer a
reward to be paid to a person giving to the proper authorities any information that leads to
the conviction of a person violating this chapter. The reward is limited to the greater of
$100 or ten percent of the single stumpage value of any timber unlawfully cut or removed.
The commissioner shall pay the reward from funds appropriated for that purpose or from
receipts from the sale of state timber. A reward shall not be paid to salaried forest officers,
new text begin state appraisers, scalers, new text end conservation officers, or licensed peace officers.

Sec. 56.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 90.41, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Violations new text begin and penalty new text end .

new text begin (a) new text end Any state scaler or state appraiser who
shall accept any compensation or gratuity for services as such from any other source
except the state of Minnesota, or any state scaler, or other person authorized to scale state
timber, or state appraiser, who shall make any false report, or insert in any such report any
false statement, or shall make any such report without having examined the land embraced
therein or without having actually been upon the land, or omit from any such report any
statement required by law to be made therein, or who shall fail to report any known trespass
committed upon state lands, or who shall conspire with any other person in any manner, by
act or omission or otherwise, to defraud or unlawfully deprive the state of Minnesota of any
land or timber, or the value thereof, shall be guilty of a felony. Any material discrepancy
between the facts and the scale returned by any such person scaling timber for the state
shall be considered prima facie evidence that such person is guilty of violating this statute.

new text begin (b) new text end No such appraiser or scaler who has been once discharged for cause shall ever
again be appointed. This provision shall not apply to resignations voluntarily made by and
accepted from such employees.

Sec. 57.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 92.50, is amended to read:

92.50 UNSOLD LANDS SUBJECT TO SALE MAY BE LEASED.

Subdivision 1.

Lease terms.

(a) The commissioner of natural resources may lease
land under the commissioner's jurisdiction and control:

(1) to remove sand, gravel, clay, rock, marl, peat, and black dirt;

(2) to store ore, waste materials from mines, or rock and tailings from ore milling
plants;

(3) for roads or railroads; or

(4) for other uses consistent with the interests of the state.

(b) The commissioner shall offer the lease at public or private sale for an amount
and under terms and conditions prescribed by the commissioner. Commercial leases for
more than ten years and leases for removal of peat that cover 320 or more acres must be
approved by the Executive Council.

(c) The lease term may not exceed 21 years except:

(1) leases of lands for storage sites for ore, waste materials from mines, or rock and
tailings from ore milling plants, or for the removal of peat for nonagricultural purposes
may not exceed a term of 25 years; and

(2) leases for commercial purposes, including major resort, convention center, or
recreational area purposes, may not exceed a term of 40 years.

(d) Leases must be subject to sale and leasing of the land for mineral purposes and
contain a provision for cancellation for just cause at any time by the commissioner upon
six months' written notice. A longer notice period, not exceeding three years, may be
provided in leases for storing ore, waste materials from mines or rock or tailings from ore
milling plants. The commissioner may determine the terms and conditions, including the
notice period, for cancellation of a lease for the removal of peat and commercial leases.

(e) new text begin Except as provided in subdivision 3, new text end money received from leases under this
section must be credited to the fund to which the land belongs.

Subd. 2.

Leases for tailings deposits.

The commissioner may grant leases and
licenses to deposit tailings from any iron ore beneficiation plant in any public lake not
exceeding 160 acres in area after holding a public hearing in the manner and under the
procedure provided in Laws 1937, chapter 468, as amended and finding in pursuance
of the hearing:

(a) that such use of each lake is necessary and in the best interests of the public; and

(b) that the proposed use will not result in pollution or sedimentation of any outlet
stream.

The lease or license may not exceed a term of 25 years and must be subject to
cancellation on three years' notice. The commissioner may further restrict use of the lake
to safeguard the public interest, and may require that the lessee or licensee acquire suitable
permits or easements from the owners of lands riparian to the lake. new text begin Except as provided
in subdivision 3, new text end money received from the leases or licenses must be deposited in the
permanent school fund.

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Application fees. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner shall, by written order, establish
the schedule of application fees for all leases issued under this section. Notwithstanding
section 16A.1285, subdivision 2, the application fees shall be set at a rate that neither
significantly overrecovers nor underrecovers costs, including overhead costs, involved in
providing the services at the time of issuing the leases. The commissioner shall update
the schedule of application fees every five years. The schedule of application fees and
any adjustment to the schedule are not subject to the rulemaking provision of chapter 14
and section 14.386 does not apply.
new text end

new text begin (b) Money received under this subdivision must be deposited in the land management
account in the natural resources fund and is appropriated to the commissioner to cover the
reasonable costs incurred for issuing leases.
new text end

Sec. 58.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.17, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Lease application.

(a) Applications for leases to prospect for iron
ore shall be presented to the commissioner in writing in such form as the commissioner
may prescribe at any time before 4:30 p.m., St. Paul, Minnesota time, on the last business
day before the day specified for the opening of bids, and no bids submitted after that time
shall be considered. The application shall be accompanied by a certified check, cashier's
check, or bank money order payable to the Department of Natural Resources in the sum of
deleted text begin $100 deleted text end new text begin $1,000 new text end for each mining unit. new text begin The fee shall be deposited in the minerals management
account in the natural resources fund.
new text end

(b) Each application shall be accompanied by a sealed bid setting forth the amount
of royalty per gross ton of crude ore based upon the iron content of the ore when dried at
212 degrees Fahrenheit, in its natural condition or when concentrated, as set out in section
93.20, subdivisions 12 to 18, that the applicant proposes to pay to the state of Minnesota
in case the lease shall be awarded.

Sec. 59.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.1925, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Application.

(a) An application for a negotiated lease shall be submitted to
the commissioner of natural resources. The commissioner shall prescribe the information
to be included in the application. The applicant shall submit with the application a certified
check, cashier's check, or bank money order, payable to the Department of Natural
Resources in the sum of deleted text begin $100 deleted text end new text begin $2,000 new text end , as a fee for filing the application. The application
fee shall not be refunded under any circumstances. new text begin The application fee shall be deposited
in the minerals management account in the natural resources fund.
new text end

(b) The right is reserved to the state to reject any or all applications for a negotiated
lease.

Sec. 60.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.25, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Lease requirements.

new text begin (a) new text end All leases for nonferrous metallic minerals or
petroleum must be approved by the Executive Council, and any other mineral lease issued
pursuant to this section that covers 160 or more acres must be approved by the Executive
Council. The rents, royalties, terms, conditions, and covenants of all such leases shall be
fixed by the commissioner according to rules adopted by the commissioner, but no lease
shall be for a longer term than 50 years, and all rents, royalties, terms, conditions, and
covenants shall be fully set forth in each lease issued. The rents and royalties shall be
credited to the funds as provided in section 93.22.

new text begin (b) The applicant for a lease must submit with the application a certified check,
cashier's check, or bank money order payable to the Department of Natural Resources
in the sum of:
new text end

new text begin (1) $1,000 as a fee for filing an application for a lease being offered at public sale;
new text end

new text begin (2) $1,000 as a fee for filing an application for a lease being offered under the
preference rights lease availability list; and
new text end

new text begin (3) $2,000 as a fee for filing an application for a lease through negotiation. The
application fee for a negotiated lease shall not be refunded under any circumstances.
new text end

new text begin The application fee must be deposited in the minerals management account in the natural
resources fund.
new text end

Sec. 61.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.285, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Stockpile mining unit.

(a) Any stockpiled iron ore, wherever situated,
may, in the discretion of the commissioner of natural resources, be designated as a
stockpile mining unit for disposal separately from ore in the ground, such designation to
be made according to section 93.15, so far as applicable.

(b) The commissioner may lease the mining unit at public or private sale for an
amount and under terms and conditions prescribed by the commissioner.

new text begin (c) The applicant must submit with the application a certified check, cashier's check,
or bank money order payable to the Department of Natural Resources in the sum of $1,000
as a fee for filing an application for a lease being offered at public sale and in the sum of
$2,000 as a fee for filing an application for a lease through negotiation. The application
fee for a negotiated lease shall not be refunded under any circumstances. The application
fee must be deposited in the minerals management account in the natural resources fund.
new text end

new text begin (d) new text end The lease term may not exceed 25 years. The amount payable for stockpiled iron
ore material shall be at least equivalent to the minimum royalty that would be payable
under section 93.20.

Sec. 62.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.46, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Scram mining. new text end

new text begin "Scram mining" means a mining operation that produces
natural iron ore, natural iron ore concentrates, or taconite ore as described in section 93.20,
subdivisions 12 to 18, from previously developed stockpiles, tailing basins, underground
mine workings, or open pits and that involves no more than 80 acres of land not previously
affected by mining, or more than 80 acres of land not previously affected by mining
if the operator can demonstrate that impacts would be substantially the same as other
scram operations. "Land not previously affected by mining" means land upon which mine
wastes have not been deposited and land from which materials have not been removed in
connection with the production or extraction of metallic minerals.
new text end

Sec. 63.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.481, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Term of permit; amendment.

new text begin (a) new text end A permit issued by the commissioner
pursuant to this section shall be granted for the term determined necessary by the
commissioner for the completion of the proposed mining operation, including reclamation
or restoration. new text begin The term of a scram mining permit for iron ore or taconite shall be
determined in the same manner as a permit to mine for an iron ore or taconite mining
operation.
new text end

new text begin (b) new text end A permit may be amended upon written application to the commissioner. A
permit amendment application fee must be submitted with the written application.
The permit amendment application fee is deleted text begin ten deleted text end new text begin 20 new text end percent of the amount provided for in
subdivision 1, clause (3), for an application for the applicable permit to mine. If the
commissioner determines that the proposed amendment constitutes a substantial change to
the permit, the person applying for the amendment shall publish notice in the same manner
as for a new permit, and a hearing shall be held if written objections are received in the
same manner as for a new permit. An amendment may be granted by the commissioner if
the commissioner determines that lawful requirements have been met.

Sec. 64.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.481, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 4a. new text end

new text begin Release. new text end

new text begin A permit may not be released fully or partially without the
written approval of the commissioner. A permit release application fee must be submitted
with the written request for the release. The permit release application fee is 20 percent of
the amount provided for in subdivision 1, clause (3), for an application for the applicable
permit to mine.
new text end

Sec. 65.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.481, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Assignment.

A permit may not be assigned or otherwise transferred
without the written approval of the commissioner. A permit assignment application fee
must be submitted with the written application. The permit assignment application fee is
deleted text begin ten deleted text end new text begin 20 new text end percent of the amount provided for in subdivision 1, clause (3), for an application
for the applicable permit to mine.

Sec. 66.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.481, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 5a. new text end

new text begin Preapplication. new text end

new text begin Before the preparation of an application for a permit to
mine, persons intending to submit an application must meet with the commissioner for a
preapplication conference and site visit. Prospective applicants must also meet with the
commissioner to outline analyses and tests to be conducted if the results of the analyses
and tests will be used for evaluation of the application. A permit preapplication fee must
be submitted before the preapplication conferences, meetings, and site visit with the
commissioner. The permit preapplication fee is 20 percent of the amount provided in
subdivision 1, clause (3), for an application for the applicable permit to mine.
new text end

Sec. 67.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 93.482, is amended to read:

93.482 RECLAMATION FEES.

Subdivision 1.

Annual permit to mine fee.

(a) The commissioner shall charge
every person holding a permit to mine an annual permit fee. The fee is payable to the
commissioner by June 30 of each year, beginning in 2009.

(b) The annual permit to mine fee for deleted text begin a deleted text end new text begin an iron ore or new text end taconite mining operation is
deleted text begin $60,000 if the operation had production within the calendar year immediately preceding
the year in which payment is due and $30,000 if there was no production within the
immediately preceding calendar year deleted text end new text begin $84,000 new text end .

(c) The annual permit to mine fee for a nonferrous metallic minerals mining
operation is $75,000 deleted text begin if the operation had production within the calendar year immediately
preceding the year in which payment is due and $37,500 if there was no production within
the immediately preceding calendar year deleted text end .

(d) The annual permit to mine fee for a scram mining operation is deleted text begin $5,000 if the
operation had production within the calendar year immediately preceding the year in
which payment is due and $2,500 if there was no production within the immediately
preceding calendar year deleted text end new text begin $10,250 new text end .

(e) The annual permit to mine fee for a peat mining operation is deleted text begin $1,000 if the
operation had production within the calendar year immediately preceding the year in
which payment is due and $500 if there was no production within the immediately
preceding calendar year deleted text end new text begin $1,350 new text end .

Subd. 2.

Supplemental application deleted text begin fee for taconite and nonferrous metallic
minerals mining operation deleted text end .

(a) In addition to the application fee specified in section
93.481, the commissioner shall assess a person submitting an application for a permit
to mine for a taconite deleted text begin or deleted text end new text begin , new text end a nonferrous metallic minerals mining new text begin , or peat new text end operation the
reasonable costs for reviewing the application and preparing the permit to mine. For
nonferrous metallic minerals mining, the commissioner shall assess reasonable costs for
monitoring construction of the mining facilities. new text begin The commissioner may assess a person
submitting a request for amendment, assignment, or full or partial release of a permit to
mine the reasonable costs for reviewing the request and issuing an approval or denial. The
commissioner may assess a person submitting a request for a preapplication conference,
meetings, and a site visit the reasonable costs for reviewing the request and meeting
with the prospective applicant.
new text end

(b) The commissioner must give the applicant an estimate of the supplemental
application fee under this subdivision. The estimate must include a brief description
of the tasks to be performed and the estimated cost of each task. The application fee
under section 93.481 must be subtracted from the estimate of costs to determine the
supplemental application fee.

(c) The applicant and the commissioner shall enter into a written agreement to cover
the estimated costs to be incurred by the commissioner.

(d) The commissioner shall not issue the permit to mine until the applicant has paid
all fees in full. new text begin The commissioner shall not issue an approved assignment, amendment,
or release until the applicant has paid all fees in full. new text end Upon completion of construction
of a nonferrous metallic minerals facility, the commissioner shall refund the unobligated
balance of the monitoring fee revenue.

Sec. 68.

new text begin [93.60] MINERAL DATA AND INSPECTIONS ADMINISTRATION
ACCOUNT.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Account established; sources. new text end

new text begin The mineral data and inspections
administration account is established in the special revenue fund in the state treasury.
Interest on the account accrues to the account. Fees charged under sections 93.61 and
103I.601, subdivision 4a, shall be credited to the account.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Appropriation; purposes of account. new text end

new text begin Money in the account is
appropriated annually to the commissioner of natural resources to cover the costs of:
new text end

new text begin (1) operating and maintaining the drill core library in Hibbing, Minnesota; and
new text end

new text begin (2) conducting inspections of exploratory borings.
new text end

Sec. 69.

new text begin [93.61] DRILL CORE LIBRARY ACCESS FEE.
new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding section 13.03, subdivision 3, a person must pay a fee to access
exploration data, exploration drill core data, mineral evaluation data, and mining data
stored in the drill core library located in Hibbing, Minnesota, and managed by the
commissioner of natural resources. The fee is $250 per day. Alternatively, a person may
obtain an annual pass for a fee of $5,000. The fee must be credited to the mineral data and
inspections administration account established in section 93.60 and is appropriated to the
commissioner of natural resources for the reasonable costs of operating and maintaining
the drill core library.
new text end

Sec. 70.

new text begin [93.70] STATE-OWNED CONSTRUCTION AGGREGATES
RECLAMATION ACCOUNT.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Account established; sources. new text end

new text begin The state-owned construction
aggregates reclamation account is created in the special revenue fund in the state treasury.
Interest on the account accrues to the account. Fees charged under section 93.71 shall be
credited to the account.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Appropriation; purposes of account. new text end

new text begin Money in the account is
appropriated annually to the commissioner of natural resources to cover the costs of:
new text end

new text begin (1) reclaiming state lands administered by the commissioner following cessation of
construction aggregates mining operations on the lands; and
new text end

new text begin (2) issuing and administering contracts needed for the performance of that
reclamation work.
new text end

Sec. 71.

new text begin [93.71] STATE-OWNED CONSTRUCTION AGGREGATES
RECLAMATION FEE.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Annual reclamation fee; purpose. new text end

new text begin Except as provided in
subdivision 4, the commissioner of natural resources shall charge a person who holds
a lease or permit to mine construction aggregates on state land administered by the
commissioner an annual reclamation fee. The fee is payable to the commissioner by
January 15 of each year. The purpose of the fee is to pay for reclamation or restoration of
state lands following temporary or permanent cessation of construction aggregates mining
operations. Reclamation and restoration include: land sloping and contouring, spreading
soil from stockpiles, planting vegetation, removing safety hazards, or other measures
needed to return the land to productive and safe nonmining use.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Determination of fee. new text end

new text begin The amount of the annual reclamation fee is
determined as follows:
new text end

new text begin (1) for aggregates measured in cubic yards upon removal, 15 cents for each cubic yard
removed under the lease or permit within the immediately preceding calendar year; and
new text end

new text begin (2) for aggregates measured in short tons upon removal, 11 cents per short ton
removed under the lease or permit within the immediately preceding calendar year.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Deposit of fees. new text end

new text begin All fees collected under this section must be deposited in
the state-owned construction aggregates reclamation account established in section 93.70
and credited for use to the same land class from which payment of the fee was derived.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Exception. new text end

new text begin A person who holds a lease to mine construction aggregates on
state land is not subject to the reclamation fee under subdivision 1 if the lease provides
for continuous mining for five or more years at an average rate of 30,000 or more cubic
yards per year over the term of the lease and requires the lessee to perform and pay for
the reclamation.
new text end

Sec. 72.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 97A.401, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Taking, possessing, and transporting wild animals for certain
purposes.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), special permits may be issued without
a fee to take, possess, and transport wild animals as pets and for scientific, educational,
rehabilitative, wildlife disease prevention and control, and exhibition purposes. The
commissioner shall prescribe the conditions for taking, possessing, transporting, and
disposing of the wild animals.

(b) A special permit may not be issued to take or possess wild or native deer for
exhibition, propagation, or as pets.

new text begin (c) Notwithstanding rules adopted under this section relating to wildlife rehabilitation
permits, nonresident professional wildlife rehabilitators with a federal rehabilitation
permit may possess and transport wildlife affected by oil spills.
new text end

Sec. 73.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.265, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Diversion greater than 2,000,000 gallons per day.

A water use permit
or a plan that requires a permit or the commissioner's approval, involving a diversion of
waters of the state of more than 2,000,000 gallons per day average in a 30-day period,
to a place outside of this state or from the basin of origin within this state may not be
granted or approved until deleted text begin :
deleted text end

deleted text begin (1) deleted text end a determination is made by the commissioner that the deleted text begin water remaining in the
basin of origin will be adequate to meet the basin's water resources needs during the
specified life of the diversion project deleted text end new text begin diversion is sustainable and meets the applicable
standards under section 103G.287, subdivision 5 new text end deleted text begin ; and
deleted text end

deleted text begin (2) approval of the diversion is given by the legislature deleted text end .

Sec. 74.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.265, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Consumptive use of more than 2,000,000 gallons per day.

deleted text begin (a) Except
as provided in paragraph (b), deleted text end A water use permit or a plan that requires a permit or the
commissioner's approval, involving a consumptive use of more than 2,000,000 gallons per
day average in a 30-day period, may not be granted or approved until deleted text begin :
deleted text end

deleted text begin (1) deleted text end a determination is made by the commissioner that the deleted text begin water remaining in the
basin of origin will be adequate to meet the basin's water resources needs during the
specified life of the deleted text end consumptive use new text begin is sustainable and meets the applicable standards
under section 103G.287, subdivision 5 new text end deleted text begin ; and
deleted text end

deleted text begin (2) approval of the consumptive use is given by the legislature deleted text end .

deleted text begin (b) Legislative approval under paragraph (a), clause (2), is not required for a
consumptive use in excess of 2,000,000 gallons per day average in a 30-day period for:
deleted text end

deleted text begin (1) a domestic water supply, excluding industrial and commercial uses of a
municipal water supply;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (2) agricultural irrigation and processing of agricultural products;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (3) construction and mine land dewatering;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (4) pollution abatement or remediation; and
deleted text end

deleted text begin (5) fish and wildlife enhancement projects using surface water sources.
deleted text end

Sec. 75.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.271, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Permit required.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), the state,
a person, partnership, or association, private or public corporation, county, municipality,
or other political subdivision of the state may not appropriate or use waters of the state
without a water use permit from the commissioner.

(b) This section does not apply to use for a water supply by less than 25 persons
for domestic purposes new text begin , except as required by the commissioner under section 103G.287,
subdivision 4, paragraph (b) new text end .

(c) The commissioner may issue a state general permit for appropriation of water to a
governmental subdivision or to the general public. The general permit may authorize more
than one project and the appropriation or use of more than one source of water. Water use
permit processing fees and reports required under subdivision 6 and section 103G.281,
subdivision 3, are required for each project or water source that is included under a general
permit, except that no fee is required for uses totaling less than 15,000,000 gallons annually.

Sec. 76.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.271, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Minimum use exemption and local approval of low use permits.

(a)
Except for local permits under section 103B.211, subdivision 4, a water use permit is not
required for the appropriation and use of less than deleted text begin a minimum amount prescribed by the
commissioner by rule deleted text end new text begin 10,000 gallons per day and totaling no more than 1,000,000 gallons
per year, except as required by the commissioner under section 103G.287, subdivision 4,
paragraph (b) new text end .

(b) Water use permits for more than the minimum amount but less than an
intermediate amount prescribed by rule must be processed and approved at the municipal,
county, or regional level based on rules adopted by the commissioner.

(c) The rules must include provisions for reporting to the commissioner the amounts
of water appropriated under local permits.

Sec. 77.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.271, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Water use permit processing fee.

(a) Except as described in paragraphs
(b) to (f), a water use permit processing fee must be prescribed by the commissioner in
accordance with the schedule of fees in this subdivision for each water use permit in force
at any time during the year. Fees collected under this paragraph are credited to the water
management account in the natural resources fund. The schedule is as follows, with the
stated fee in each clause applied to the total amount appropriated:

(1) deleted text begin $140 for amounts not exceeding 50,000,000 gallons per year;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (2) $3.50 deleted text end new text begin for residential use, $15 new text end per 1,000,000 gallons deleted text begin for amounts greater than
50,000,000 gallons but less than 100,000,000 gallons per year deleted text end ;

deleted text begin (3) $4 deleted text end new text begin (2) for use for metallic mine dewatering, mineral processing, and wood
products processing, $8 new text end per 1,000,000 gallons deleted text begin for amounts greater than 100,000,000
gallons but less than 150,000,000 gallons per year deleted text end ;

deleted text begin (4) $4.50 deleted text end new text begin (3) for use for agricultural irrigation, including sod farms, orchards, and
nurseries, and for livestock watering, $22 new text end per 1,000,000 gallons deleted text begin for amounts greater than
150,000,000 gallons but less than 200,000,000 gallons per year deleted text end ;

deleted text begin (5) $5 deleted text end new text begin (4) for nonagricultural irrigation, $70 new text end per 1,000,000 gallons deleted text begin for amounts
greater than 200,000,000 gallons but less than 250,000,000 gallons per year deleted text end ; new text begin and
new text end

deleted text begin (6) $5.50 deleted text end new text begin (5) for all other uses, $30 new text end per 1,000,000 gallons deleted text begin for amounts greater than
250,000,000 gallons but less than 300,000,000 gallons per year;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (7) $6 per 1,000,000 gallons for amounts greater than 300,000,000 gallons but less
than 350,000,000 gallons per year;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (8) $6.50 per 1,000,000 gallons for amounts greater than 350,000,000 gallons but
less than 400,000,000 gallons per year;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (9) $7 per 1,000,000 gallons for amounts greater than 400,000,000 gallons but less
than 450,000,000 gallons per year;
deleted text end

deleted text begin (10) $7.50 per 1,000,000 gallons for amounts greater than 450,000,000 gallons but
less than 500,000,000 gallons per year; and
deleted text end

deleted text begin (11) $8 per 1,000,000 gallons for amounts greater than 500,000,000 gallons per year deleted text end .

(b) For once-through cooling systems, a water use processing fee must be prescribed
by the commissioner in accordance with the following schedule of fees for each water use
permit in force at any time during the year:

(1) for nonprofit corporations and school districts, $200 per 1,000,000 gallons; and

(2) for all other users, $420 per 1,000,000 gallons.

(c) The fee is payable based on the amount of water appropriated during the year
and, except as provided in paragraph (f), the minimum fee is deleted text begin $100 deleted text end new text begin $140 new text end .

(d) For water use processing fees other than once-through cooling systems:

(1) the fee for a city of the first class may not exceed deleted text begin $250,000 deleted text end new text begin $275,000 new text end per year;

(2) the fee for other entities for any permitted use may not exceed:

(i) deleted text begin $60,000 deleted text end new text begin $66,000 new text end per year for an entity holding three or fewer permits;

(ii) deleted text begin $90,000 deleted text end new text begin $99,000 new text end per year for an entity holding four or five permits; or

(iii) deleted text begin $300,000 deleted text end new text begin $330,000 new text end per year for an entity holding more than five permits;

(3) the fee for deleted text begin agricultural deleted text end new text begin wild rice new text end irrigation may not exceed $750 per year;

(4) the fee for a municipality that furnishes electric service and cogenerates steam
for home heating may not exceed $10,000 for its permit for water use related to the
cogeneration of electricity and steam; and

(5) no fee is required for a project involving the appropriation of surface water to
prevent flood damage or to remove flood waters during a period of flooding, as determined
by the commissioner.

(e) Failure to pay the fee is sufficient cause for revoking a permit. A penalty of two
percent per month calculated from the original due date must be imposed on the unpaid
balance of fees remaining 30 days after the sending of a second notice of fees due. A fee
may not be imposed on an agency, as defined in section 16B.01, subdivision 2, or federal
governmental agency holding a water appropriation permit.

(f) The minimum water use processing fee for a permit issued for irrigation of
agricultural land is $20 for years in which:

(1) there is no appropriation of water under the permit; or

(2) the permit is suspended for more than seven consecutive days between May 1
and October 1.

(g) A surcharge of deleted text begin $30 deleted text end new text begin $75 new text end per million gallons in addition to the fee prescribed
in paragraph (a) shall be applied to the volume of water used in each of the months of
new text begin May, new text end June, July, deleted text begin and deleted text end August new text begin , and September new text end that exceeds the volume of water used in
January for municipal water use deleted text begin , irrigation of golf courses, and landscape irrigation deleted text end . The
surcharge for municipalities with more than one permit shall be determined based on the
total appropriations from all permits that supply a common distribution system.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective January 1, 2014.
new text end

Sec. 78.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.282, is amended to read:

103G.282 MONITORING TO EVALUATE IMPACTS FROM
APPROPRIATIONS.

Subdivision 1.

Monitoring equipment.

The commissioner may deleted text begin require the
installation and maintenance of deleted text end new text begin install and maintain new text end monitoring equipment to evaluate
water resource impacts from permitted appropriations and proposed projects that require
a permit. deleted text begin Monitoring for water resources that supply more than one appropriator must
be designed to minimize costs to individual appropriators. The cost of drilling additional
monitoring wells must be shared proportionally by all permit holders that are directly
affecting a particular water resources feature. deleted text end new text begin The commissioner may require a permit
holder or a proposer of a project to install and maintain monitoring equipment to evaluate
water resource impacts when the commissioner determines that the permitted or proposed
water use is or has the potential to be the primary source of water resource impacts in an
area.
new text end

Subd. 2.

Measuring devices required.

Monitoring installations deleted text begin required
deleted text end new text begin established new text end under subdivision 1 must be equipped with automated measuring devices
to measure water levels, flows, or conditions. The commissioner may new text begin require a permit
holder or a proposer of a project to perform water measurements. The commissioner
may new text end determine the frequency of measurements and other measuring methods based on
the quantity of water appropriated or used, the source of water, potential connections to
other water resources, the method of appropriating or using water, seasonal and long-term
changes in water levels, and any other facts supplied to the commissioner.

Subd. 3.

Reports and costs.

(a) Records of water measurements under subdivision
2 must be kept for each installation. The measurements must be reported annually to the
commissioner on or before February 15 of the following year in a format or on forms
prescribed by the commissioner.

(b) The deleted text begin owner or person deleted text end new text begin permit holder or project proposer new text end in charge of an installation
for appropriating or using waters of the state or a proposal that requires a permit is
responsible for all costs related to establishing and maintaining monitoring installations
and to measuring and reporting data. deleted text begin Monitoring costs for water resources that supply
more than one appropriator may be distributed among all users within a monitoring area
determined by the commissioner and assessed based on volumes of water appropriated
and proximity to resources of concern. deleted text end new text begin The commissioner may require a permit holder or
project proposer utilizing monitoring equipment installed by the commissioner to meet
water measurement requirements to cover the costs related to measuring and reporting data.
new text end

Sec. 79.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.287, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Applications for groundwater appropriations new text begin ; preliminary well
construction approval new text end .

(a) Groundwater use permit applications are not complete until
the applicant has supplied:

(1) a water well record as required by section 103I.205, subdivision 9, information
on the subsurface geologic formations penetrated by the well and the formation or aquifer
that will serve as the water source, and geologic information from test holes drilled to
locate the site of the production well;

(2) the maximum daily, seasonal, and annual pumpage rates and volumes being
requested;

(3) information on groundwater quality in terms of the measures of quality
commonly specified for the proposed water use and details on water treatment necessary
for the proposed use;

(4) an inventory of existing wells within 1-1/2 miles of the proposed production well
or within the area of influence, as determined by the commissioner. The inventory must
include information on well locations, depths, geologic formations, depth of the pump or
intake, pumping and nonpumping water levels, and details of well construction; deleted text begin and
deleted text end

(5) the results of an aquifer test completed according to specifications approved by
the commissioner. The test must be conducted at the maximum pumping rate requested
in the application and for a length of time adequate to assess or predict impacts to other
wells and surface water and groundwater resources. The permit applicant is responsible
for all costs related to the aquifer test, including the construction of groundwater and
surface water monitoring installations, and water level readings before, during, and after
the aquifer test new text begin ; and
new text end

new text begin (6) the results of any assessments conducted by the commissioner under paragraph (c) new text end .

(b) The commissioner may waive an application requirement in this subdivision
if the information provided with the application is adequate to determine whether the
proposed appropriation and use of water is sustainable and will protect ecosystems, water
quality, and the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

new text begin (c) The commissioner shall provide an assessment of a proposed well needing a
groundwater appropriation permit. The commissioner shall evaluate the information
submitted as required under section 103I.205, subdivision 1, paragraph (f), and determine
whether the anticipated appropriation request is likely to meet the applicable requirements
of this chapter. If the appropriation request is likely to meet applicable requirements, the
commissioner shall provide the person submitting the information with a letter providing
preliminary approval to construct the well.
new text end

Sec. 80.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.287, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Groundwater management areas.

new text begin (a) new text end The commissioner may designate
groundwater management areas and limit total annual water appropriations and uses within
a designated area to ensure sustainable use of groundwater that protects ecosystems, water
quality, and the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Water appropriations
and uses within a designated management area must be consistent with a plan approved by
the commissioner that addresses water conservation requirements and water allocation
priorities established in section 103G.261.

new text begin (b) Within designated groundwater management areas, the commissioner may
require permits as specified in section 103G.271 for all water users, including those using
less than 10,000 gallons per day or 1,000,000 gallons per year and water supplies serving
less than 25 persons for domestic purposes.
new text end

Sec. 81.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.287, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

deleted text begin Interference with other wells deleted text end new text begin Sustainability standard new text end .

The
commissioner may issue water use permits for appropriation from groundwater only if
the commissioner determines that the groundwater use is sustainable to supply the needs
of future generations and the proposed use will not harm ecosystems, degrade water, or
reduce water levels beyond the reach of public water supply and private domestic wells
constructed according to Minnesota Rules, chapter 4725.

Sec. 82.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103G.615, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Fees.

(a) deleted text begin The commissioner shall establish a fee schedule for permits to
control or harvest aquatic plants other than wild rice. The fees must be set by rule, and
section 16A.1283 does not apply, but the rule must not take effect until 45 legislative
days after it has been reported to the legislature. deleted text end The fees deleted text begin shall not exceed $2,500 per
permit and deleted text end shall be based upon the cost of receiving, processing, analyzing, and issuing
the permit, and additional costs incurred after the application to inspect and monitor
the activities authorized by the permit, and enforce aquatic plant management rules and
permit requirements. new text begin The permit fee, in the form of a check or money order payable to the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, must accompany each permit application.
When application is made to control two or more shoreline nuisance conditions, only the
larger fee applies. Permit fees are:
new text end

deleted text begin (b) A fee for a permit for the deleted text end new text begin (1) to new text end control deleted text begin of deleted text end rooted aquatic deleted text begin vegetation deleted text end new text begin plants
by pesticide or mechanical means, $35 new text end for each contiguous parcel of shoreline owned
by an owner deleted text begin may be charged deleted text end new text begin , including a three-year automatic aquatic plant control
device permit new text end . This fee may not be charged for deleted text begin permits issued in connection with deleted text end purple
loosestrife control or lakewide deleted text begin Eurasian water milfoil control programs. deleted text end new text begin or baywide
invasive aquatic plant management permits;
new text end

new text begin (2) to control filamentous algae, snails that carry swimmer's itch, or leeches, singly
or in combination, $40 for each contiguous parcel or shoreline with a distinct owner;
new text end

new text begin (3) for offshore control of submersed aquatic plants by pesticide or mechanical
means, $90;
new text end

new text begin (4) to control plankton algae or free-floating aquatic plants by lakewide or baywide
application of approved pesticides, $90;
new text end

new text begin (5) for a commercial mechanical control permit, $100 annually, and;
new text end

new text begin (6) for a commercial harvest permit, $100 plus $300 for each public water listed on
the application that requires an inspection. An inspection is required for waters with no
previous permit history and may be required at other times to monitor the status of the
aquatic plant population.
new text end

new text begin (b) There is no permit fee for:
new text end

new text begin (1) permits to transplant aquatic plants in public waters;
new text end

new text begin (2) permits to move or remove a floating bog in public waters if the floating bog is
lodged against the permittee's property and has not taken root;
new text end

new text begin (3) invasive aquatic plant management permits; or
new text end

deleted text begin (c) A fee may not be charged to deleted text end new text begin (4) permits applied for by new text end the state or a federal
governmental agency deleted text begin applying for a permit deleted text end .

deleted text begin (d) deleted text end new text begin (c) new text end A fee for a permit for the control of rooted aquatic vegetation in a public
water basin that is 20 acres or less in size deleted text begin shall be deleted text end new text begin is new text end one-half of the fee established under
paragraph (a) new text begin , clause (1) new text end .

new text begin (d) If the fee does not accompany the application, the applicant shall be notified and
no action will be taken on the application until the fee is received.
new text end

new text begin (e) A fee is refundable only when the application is withdrawn prior to field
inspection or issuance or denial of the permit or when the commissioner determines that
the activity does not require a permit.
new text end

deleted text begin (e) deleted text end new text begin (f) new text end The money received for the permits under this subdivision shall be deposited
in the deleted text begin treasury and credited to the deleted text end water recreation account new text begin in the natural resources fund new text end .

deleted text begin (f) deleted text end new text begin (g) new text end The fee for processing a notification to request authorization for work under
a general permit is $30 deleted text begin , until the commissioner establishes a fee by rule as provided
under this subdivision deleted text end .

Sec. 83.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103I.205, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Notification required.

(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (d)
and (e), a person may not construct a well until a notification of the proposed well on a
form prescribed by the commissioner is filed with the commissioner with the filing fee in
section 103I.208 new text begin , and, when applicable, the person has met the requirements of paragraph
(f) new text end . If after filing the well notification an attempt to construct a well is unsuccessful, a
new notification is not required unless the information relating to the successful well
has substantially changed.

(b) The property owner, the property owner's agent, or the well contractor where a
well is to be located must file the well notification with the commissioner.

(c) The well notification under this subdivision preempts local permits and
notifications, and counties or home rule charter or statutory cities may not require a
permit or notification for wells unless the commissioner has delegated the permitting or
notification authority under section 103I.111.

(d) A person who is an individual that constructs a drive point well on property
owned or leased by the individual for farming or agricultural purposes or as the individual's
place of abode must notify the commissioner of the installation and location of the well.
The person must complete the notification form prescribed by the commissioner and mail
it to the commissioner by ten days after the well is completed. A fee may not be charged
for the notification. A person who sells drive point wells at retail must provide buyers
with notification forms and informational materials including requirements regarding
wells, their location, construction, and disclosure. The commissioner must provide the
notification forms and informational materials to the sellers.

(e) A person may not construct a monitoring well until a permit is issued by the
commissioner for the construction. If after obtaining a permit an attempt to construct a
well is unsuccessful, a new permit is not required as long as the initial permit is modified
to indicate the location of the successful well.

new text begin (f) When the operation of a well will require an appropriation permit from the
commissioner of natural resources, a person may not begin construction of the well until
the person submits the following information to the commissioner of natural resources:
new text end

new text begin (1) the location of the well;
new text end

new text begin (2) the formation or aquifer that will serve as the water source;
new text end

new text begin (3) the maximum daily, seasonal, and annual pumpage rates and volumes that will
be requested in the appropriation permit; and
new text end

new text begin (4) other information requested by the commissioner of natural resources that
is necessary to conduct the preliminary assessment required under section 103G.287,
subdivision 1, paragraph (c).
new text end

new text begin The person may begin construction after receiving preliminary approval from the
commissioner of natural resources.
new text end

Sec. 84.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 103I.601, is amended by adding a
subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 4a. new text end

new text begin Exploratory boring inspection fee. new text end

new text begin For each proposed exploratory
boring identified on the map submitted under subdivision 4, an explorer must submit a fee
of $2,000 to the commissioner of natural resources. The fee must be credited to the mineral
data and inspections administration account established in section 93.60 and is appropriated
to the commissioner of natural resources for the reasonable costs incurred for inspections
of exploratory borings by the commissioner of natural resources or the commissioner's
representative. The fee is nonrefundable, even if the exploratory boring is not conducted.
new text end

Sec. 85.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 114D.50, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Expenditures; accountability.

(a) A project receiving funding from the
clean water fund must meet or exceed the constitutional requirements to protect, enhance,
and restore water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams and to protect groundwater and
drinking water from degradation. Priority may be given to projects that meet more than
one of these requirements. A project receiving funding from the clean water fund shall
include measurable outcomes, as defined in section 3.303, subdivision 10, and a plan for
measuring and evaluating the results. A project must be consistent with current science
and incorporate state-of-the-art technology.

(b) Money from the clean water fund shall be expended to balance the benefits
across all regions and residents of the state.

(c) A state agency or other recipient of a direct appropriation from the clean
water fund must compile and submit all information for proposed and funded projects
or programs, including the proposed measurable outcomes and all other items required
under section 3.303, subdivision 10, to the Legislative Coordinating Commission as soon
as practicable or by January 15 of the applicable fiscal year, whichever comes first. The
Legislative Coordinating Commission must post submitted information on the Web site
required under section 3.303, subdivision 10, as soon as it becomes available. Information
classified as not public under section 13D.05, subdivision 3, paragraph (d), is not required
to be placed on the Web site.

(d) Grants funded by the clean water fund must be implemented according to section
16B.98 and must account for all expenditures. Proposals must specify a process for any
regranting envisioned. Priority for grant proposals must be given to proposals involving
grants that will be competitively awarded.

(e) Money from the clean water fund may only be spent on projects that benefit
Minnesota waters.

(f) When practicable, a direct recipient of an appropriation from the clean water fund
shall prominently display on the recipient's Web site home page the legacy logo required
under Laws 2009, chapter 172, article 5, section 10, as amended by Laws 2010, chapter
361, article 3, section 5, accompanied by the phrase "Click here for more information."
When a person clicks on the legacy logo image, the Web site must direct the person to
a Web page that includes both the contact information that a person may use to obtain
additional information, as well as a link to the Legislative Coordinating Commission Web
site required under section 3.303, subdivision 10.

(g) Future eligibility for money from the clean water fund is contingent upon a state
agency or other recipient satisfying all applicable requirements in this section, as well as
any additional requirements contained in applicable session law.

new text begin (h) Money from the clean water fund may be used to leverage federal funds through
execution of formal project partnership agreements with federal agencies consistent with
respective federal agency partnership agreement requirements.
new text end

Sec. 86.

new text begin [115.84] WASTEWATER LABORATORY CERTIFICATION.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Wastewater laboratory certification required. new text end

new text begin (a) Laboratories
performing wastewater or water analytical laboratory work, the results of which are
reported to the agency to determine compliance with a national pollutant discharge
elimination system (NPDES) permit condition or other regulatory document, must be
certified according to this section.
new text end

new text begin (b) This section does not apply to:
new text end

new text begin (1) laboratories that are private and for-profit;
new text end

new text begin (2) laboratories that perform drinking water analyses; or
new text end

new text begin (3) laboratories that perform remediation program analyses, such as Superfund or
petroleum analytical work.
new text end

new text begin (c) Until adoption of rules under subdivision 2, laboratories required to be certified
under this section that submit data to the agency must register by submitting registration
information required by the agency or be certified or accredited by a recognized authority,
such as the commissioner of health under sections 144.97 to 144.99, for the analytical
methods required by the agency.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Rules. new text end

new text begin The agency may adopt rules to govern certification of laboratories
according to this section. Notwithstanding section 16A.1283, the agency may adopt
rules establishing fees.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Fees. new text end

new text begin (a) Until the agency adopts a rule establishing fees for certification,
the agency shall collect fees from laboratories registering with the agency but not
accredited by the commissioner of health under sections 144.97 to 144.99, in amounts
necessary to cover the reasonable costs of the certification program, including reviewing
applications, issuing certifications, and conducting audits and compliance assistance.
new text end

new text begin (b) Fees under this section must be based on the number, type, and complexity of
analytical methods that laboratories are certified to perform.
new text end

new text begin (c) Revenue from fees charged by the agency for certification shall be credited to
the environmental fund.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Enforcement. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner may deny, suspend, or revoke
wastewater laboratory certification for, but is not limited to, any of the following reasons:
fraud, failure to follow applicable requirements, failure to respond to documented
deficiencies or complete corrective actions necessary to address deficiencies, failure to pay
certification fees, or other violations of federal or state law.
new text end

new text begin (b) This section and the rules adopted under it may be enforced by any means
provided in section 115.071.
new text end

Sec. 87.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115A.1320, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Duties of the agency.

(a) The agency shall administer sections
115A.1310 to 115A.1330.

(b) The agency shall establish procedures for:

(1) receipt and maintenance of the registration statements and certifications filed
with the agency under section 115A.1312; and

(2) making the statements and certifications easily available to manufacturers,
retailers, and members of the public.

(c) The agency shall annually review the value of the following variables that are
part of the formula used to calculate a manufacturer's annual registration fee under section
115A.1314, subdivision 1:

(1) the proportion of sales of video display devices sold to households that
manufacturers are required to recycle;

(2) the estimated per-pound price of recycling covered electronic devices sold to
households;

(3) the base registration fee; and

(4) the multiplier established for the weight of covered electronic devices collected
in section 115A.1314, subdivision 1, paragraph (d). If the agency determines that any of
these values must be changed in order to improve the efficiency or effectiveness of the
activities regulated under sections 115A.1312 to 115A.1330, the agency shall submit
recommended changes and the reasons for them to the chairs of the senate and house of
representatives committees with jurisdiction over solid waste policy.

(d) By January 15 each year, beginning in 2008, the agency shall calculate estimated
sales of video display devices sold to households by each manufacturer during the preceding
program year, based on national sales data, and forward the estimates to the department.

(e) The agency shall provide a report to the governor and the legislature on the
implementation of sections 115A.1310 to 115A.1330. For each program year, the report
must discuss the total weight of covered electronic devices recycled and a summary
of information in the reports submitted by manufacturers and recyclers under section
115A.1316. The report must also discuss the various collection programs used by
manufacturers to collect covered electronic devices; information regarding covered
electronic devices that are being collected by persons other than registered manufacturers,
collectors, and recyclers; and information about covered electronic devices, if any, being
disposed of in landfills in this state. The report must include a description of enforcement
actions under sections 115A.1310 to 115A.1330. The agency may include in its report
other information received by the agency regarding the implementation of sections
115A.1312 to 115A.1330. The report must be done in conjunction with the report required
under section deleted text begin 115D.10 deleted text end new text begin 115A.121 new text end .

(f) The agency shall promote public participation in the activities regulated under
sections 115A.1312 to 115A.1330 through public education and outreach efforts.

(g) The agency shall enforce sections 115A.1310 to 115A.1330 in the manner
provided by sections 115.071, subdivisions 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6; and 116.072, except for those
provisions enforced by the department, as provided in subdivision 2. The agency may
revoke a registration of a collector or recycler found to have violated sections 115A.1310
to 115A.1330.

(h) The agency shall facilitate communication between counties, collection and
recycling centers, and manufacturers to ensure that manufacturers are aware of video
display devices available for recycling.

(i) The agency shall develop a form retailers must use to report information to
manufacturers under section 115A.1318 and post it on the agency's Web site.

(j) The agency shall post on its Web site the contact information provided by each
manufacturer under section 115A.1318, paragraph (e).

Sec. 88.

new text begin [115A.141] CARPET PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM;
STEWARDSHIP PLAN.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Definitions. new text end

new text begin For purposes of this section, the following terms have
the meanings given:
new text end

new text begin (1) "brand" means a name, symbol, word, or mark that identifies carpet, rather than its
components, and attributes the carpet to the owner or licensee of the brand as the producer;
new text end

new text begin (2) "carpet" means a manufactured article that is used in commercial or single or
multifamily residential buildings, is affixed or placed on the floor or building walking
surface as a decorative or functional building interior or exterior feature, and is primarily
constructed of a top visible surface of synthetic face fibers or yarns or tufts attached to a
backing system derived from synthetic or natural materials. Carpet includes, but is not
limited to, a commercial or residential broadloom carpet or modular carpet tiles. Carpet
includes a pad or underlayment used in conjunction with a carpet. Carpet does not include
handmade rugs, area rugs, or mats;
new text end

new text begin (3) "discarded carpet" means carpet that is no longer used for its manufactured
purpose;
new text end

new text begin (4) "producer" means a person that:
new text end

new text begin (i) has legal ownership of the brand, brand name, or cobrand of carpet sold in the state;
new text end

new text begin (ii) imports carpet branded by a producer that meets subclause (i) when the producer
has no physical presence in the United States;
new text end

new text begin (iii) if subclauses (i) and (ii) do not apply, makes unbranded carpet that is sold
in the state; or
new text end

new text begin (iv) sells carpet at wholesale or retail, does not have legal ownership of the brand,
and elects to fulfill the responsibilities of the producer for the carpet by certifying that
election in writing to the commissioner;
new text end

new text begin (5) "recycling" means the process of collecting and preparing recyclable materials and
reusing the materials in their original form or using them in manufacturing processes that
do not cause the destruction of recyclable materials in a manner that precludes further use;
new text end

new text begin (6) "retailer" means any person who offers carpet for sale at retail in the state;
new text end

new text begin (7) "reuse" means donating or selling a collected carpet back into the market for
its original intended use, when the carpet retains its original purpose and performance
characteristics;
new text end

new text begin (8) "sale" or "sell" means transfer of title of carpet for consideration, including a
remote sale conducted through a sales outlet, catalog, Web site, or similar electronic
means. Sale or sell includes a lease through which carpet is provided to a consumer by a
producer, wholesaler, or retailer;
new text end

new text begin (9) "stewardship assessment" means the amount added to the purchase price of
carpet sold in the state that is necessary to cover the cost of collecting, transporting, and
processing postconsumer carpets by the producer or stewardship organization pursuant to
a product stewardship program;
new text end

new text begin (10) "stewardship organization" means an organization appointed by one or more
producers to act as an agent on behalf of the producer to design, submit, and administer a
product stewardship program under this section; and
new text end

new text begin (11) "stewardship plan" means a detailed plan describing the manner in which a
product stewardship program under subdivision 2 will be implemented.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Product stewardship program. new text end

new text begin For all carpet sold in the state, producers
must, individually or through a stewardship organization, implement and finance a
statewide product stewardship program that manages carpet by reducing carpet's waste
generation, promoting its reuse and recycling, and providing for negotiation and execution
of agreements to collect, transport, and process carpet for end-of-life recycling and reuse.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Requirement for sale. new text end

new text begin (a) On and after July 1, 2015, no producer,
wholesaler, or retailer may sell carpet or offer carpet for sale in the state unless the carpet's
producer participates in an approved stewardship plan, either individually or through a
stewardship organization.
new text end

new text begin (b) Each producer must operate a product stewardship program approved by the
agency or enter into an agreement with a stewardship organization to operate, on the
producer's behalf, a product stewardship program approved by the agency.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Requirement to submit plan. new text end

new text begin (a) On or before March 1, 2015, and before
offering carpet for sale in the state, a producer must submit a stewardship plan to the
agency and receive approval of the plan or must submit documentation to the agency that
demonstrates the producer has entered into an agreement with a stewardship organization
to be an active participant in an approved product stewardship program as described in
subdivision 2. A stewardship plan must include all elements required under subdivision 5.
new text end

new text begin (b) At least every three years, a producer or stewardship organization operating a
product stewardship program must update the stewardship plan and submit the updated
plan to the agency for review and approval.
new text end

new text begin (c) It is the responsibility of the entities responsible for each stewardship plan to
notify the agency within 30 days of any significant changes or modifications to the plan or
its implementation. Within 30 days of the notification, a written plan revision must be
submitted to the agency for review and approval.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Stewardship plan content. new text end

new text begin A stewardship plan must contain:
new text end

new text begin (1) certification that the product stewardship program will accept all discarded carpet
regardless of which producer produced the carpet and its individual components;
new text end

new text begin (2) contact information for the individual and the entity submitting the plan and for
all producers participating in the product stewardship program;
new text end

new text begin (3) a description of the methods by which discarded carpet will be collected in all
areas in the state without relying on end-of-life fees, including an explanation of how the
collection system will be convenient and adequate to serve the needs of small businesses
and residents in the seven-county metropolitan area initially and expanding to areas
outside of the seven-county metropolitan area starting July 1, 2016;
new text end

new text begin (4) a description of how the adequacy of the collection program will be monitored
and maintained;
new text end

new text begin (5) the names and locations of collectors, transporters, and recycling facilities that
will manage discarded carpet;
new text end

new text begin (6) a description of how the discarded carpet and the carpet's components will
be safely and securely transported, tracked, and handled from collection through final
recycling and processing;
new text end

new text begin (7) a description of the method that will be used to reuse, deconstruct, or recycle
the discarded carpet to ensure that the product's components, to the extent feasible, are
transformed or remanufactured into finished products for use;
new text end

new text begin (8) a description of the promotion and outreach activities that will be used to
encourage participation in the collection and recycling programs and how the activities'
effectiveness will be evaluated and the program modified, if necessary;
new text end

new text begin (9) the proposed stewardship assessment. The producer or stewardship organization
shall propose a stewardship assessment for any carpet sold in the state. The proposed
stewardship assessment shall be reviewed by an independent auditor to ensure that
the assessment does not exceed the costs of the product stewardship program and the
independent auditor shall recommend an amount for the stewardship assessment;
new text end

new text begin (10) evidence of adequate insurance and financial assurance that may be required for
collection, handling, and disposal operations;
new text end

new text begin (11) five-year performance goals, including an estimate of the percentage of
discarded carpet that will be collected, reused, and recycled during each of the first five
years of the stewardship plan. The performance goals must include a specific escalating
goal for the amount of discarded carpet that will be collected and recycled and reused
during each year of the plan. The performance goals must be based on:
new text end

new text begin (i) the most recent collection data available for the state;
new text end

new text begin (ii) the amount of carpet disposed of annually;
new text end

new text begin (iii) the weight of the carpet that is expected to be available for collection annually;
and
new text end

new text begin (iv) actual collection data from other existing stewardship programs.
new text end

new text begin The stewardship plan must state the methodology used to determine these goals;
new text end

new text begin (12) carpet design changes that will be considered to reduce toxicity, water use, or
energy use or to increase recycled content, recyclability, or carpet longevity; and
new text end

new text begin (13) a discussion of market development opportunities to expand use of recovered
carpet, with consideration of expanding processing activity near areas of collection.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Consultation required. new text end

new text begin (a) Each stewardship organization or individual
producer submitting a stewardship plan must consult with stakeholders including retailers,
installers, collectors, recyclers, local government, customers, and citizens during the
development of the plan, solicit stakeholder comments, and attempt to address any
stakeholder concerns regarding the plan before submitting the plan to the agency for review.
new text end

new text begin (b) The producer or stewardship organization must invite comments from local
governments, communities, and citizens to report their satisfaction with services, including
education and outreach, provided by the product stewardship program. The information
must be submitted to the agency and used by the agency in reviewing proposed updates or
changes to the stewardship plan.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Agency review and approval. new text end

new text begin (a) Within 90 days after receipt of a proposed
stewardship plan, the agency shall determine whether the plan complies with subdivision
5. If the agency approves a plan, the agency shall notify the applicant of the plan approval
in writing. If the agency rejects a plan, the agency shall notify the applicant in writing of
the reasons for rejecting the plan. An applicant whose plan is rejected by the agency must
submit a revised plan to the agency within 60 days after receiving notice of rejection.
new text end

new text begin (b) Any proposed changes to a stewardship plan must be approved by the agency
in writing.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Plan availability. new text end

new text begin All draft and approved stewardship plans shall be
placed on the agency's Web site for at least 30 days and made available at the agency's
headquarters for public review and comment.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Conduct authorized. new text end

new text begin A producer or stewardship organization that
organizes collection, transport, and processing of carpet under this section is immune
from liability for the conduct under state laws relating to antitrust, restraint of trade,
unfair trade practices, and other regulation of trade or commerce only to the extent that
the conduct is necessary to plan and implement the producer's or organization's chosen
organized collection or recycling system.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Responsibility of producers. new text end

new text begin (a) On and after the date of implementation
of a product stewardship program under this section, a producer of carpet must add the
stewardship assessment, as established according to subdivision 5, clause (9), to the cost
of the carpet sold to retailers and distributors in the state by the producer.
new text end

new text begin (b) Producers of carpet or the stewardship organization shall provide consumers
with educational materials regarding the stewardship assessment and product stewardship
program. The materials must include, but are not limited to, information regarding available
end-of-life management options for carpet offered through the product stewardship
program and information that notifies consumers that a charge for the operation of the
product stewardship program is included in the purchase price of carpet sold in the state.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 11. new text end

new text begin Responsibility of retailers. new text end

new text begin (a) On and after July 1, 2015, no carpet may
be sold in the state unless the carpet's producer is participating in an approved stewardship
plan.
new text end

new text begin (b) On and after the implementation date of a product stewardship program under
this section, each retailer or distributor, as applicable, must ensure that the full amount of
the stewardship assessment added to the cost of carpet by producers under subdivision 10
is included in the purchase price of all carpet sold in the state.
new text end

new text begin (c) Any retailer may participate, on a voluntary basis, as a designated collection
point pursuant to a product stewardship program under this section and in accordance
with applicable law.
new text end

new text begin (d) No retailer or distributor shall be found to be in violation of this subdivision if,
on the date the carpet was ordered from the producer or its agent, the producer was listed
as compliant on the agency's Web site according to subdivision 14.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 12. new text end

new text begin Stewardship reports. new text end

new text begin Beginning October 1, 2016, producers of carpet
sold in the state must individually or through a stewardship organization submit an
annual report to the agency describing the product stewardship program. At a minimum,
the report must contain:
new text end

new text begin (1) a description of the methods used to collect, transport, and process carpet in all
regions of the state;
new text end

new text begin (2) the weight of all carpet collected in all regions of the state and a comparison to
the performance goals and recycling rates established in the stewardship plan;
new text end

new text begin (3) the amount of unwanted carpet collected in the state by method of disposition,
including reuse, recycling, and other methods of processing;
new text end

new text begin (4) identification of the facilities processing carpet and the number and weight
processed at each facility;
new text end

new text begin (5) an evaluation of the program's funding mechanism;
new text end

new text begin (6) samples of educational materials provided to consumers and an evaluation of the
effectiveness of the materials and the methods used to disseminate the materials; and
new text end

new text begin (7) a description of progress made toward achieving carpet design changes according
to subdivision 5, clause (12).
new text end

new text begin Subd. 13. new text end

new text begin Sales information. new text end

new text begin Sales information provided to the commissioner
under this section is classified as private or nonpublic data, as specified in section
115A.06, subdivision 13.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 14. new text end

new text begin Agency responsibilities. new text end

new text begin The agency shall provide, on its Web site, a
list of all compliant producers and brands participating in stewardship plans that the
agency has approved and a list of all producers and brands the agency has identified as
noncompliant with this section.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 15. new text end

new text begin Local government responsibilities. new text end

new text begin (a) A city, county, or other public
agency may choose to participate voluntarily in a carpet product stewardship program.
new text end

new text begin (b) Cities, counties, and other public agencies are encouraged to work with producers
and stewardship organizations to assist in meeting product stewardship program recycling
obligations, by providing education and outreach or using other strategies.
new text end

new text begin (c) A city, county, or other public agency that participates in a product stewardship
program must report for the first year of the program to the agency using the reporting
form provided by the agency on the cost savings as a result of participation and describe
how the savings were used.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 16. new text end

new text begin Administrative fee. new text end

new text begin (a) The stewardship organization or individual
producer submitting a stewardship plan shall pay an annual administrative fee to the
commissioner. The agency may establish a variable fee based on relevant factors,
including, but not limited to, the portion of carpet sold in the state by members of the
organization compared to the total amount of carpet sold in the state by all organizations
submitting a stewardship plan.
new text end

new text begin (b) Prior to July 1, 2015, and before July 1 annually thereafter, the agency shall
identify the costs it incurs under this section. The agency shall set the fee at an amount
that, when paid by every stewardship organization or individual producer that submits a
stewardship plan, is adequate to reimburse the agency's full costs of administering this
section. The total amount of annual fees collected under this subdivision must not exceed
the amount necessary to reimburse costs incurred by the agency to administer this section.
new text end

new text begin (c) A stewardship organization or individual producer subject to this subdivision
must pay the agency's administrative fee under paragraph (a) on or before July 1, 2015 and
annually thereafter. Each year after the initial payment, the annual administrative fee may
not exceed five percent of the aggregate stewardship assessment added to the cost of all
carpet sold by producers in the state for the preceding calendar year.
new text end

new text begin (d) All fees received under this section shall be deposited to the state treasury and
credited to a product stewardship account in the Special Revenue Fund. Money in the
account is appropriated to the commissioner for the purpose of reimbursing the agency's
costs incurred to administer this section.
new text end

Sec. 89.

new text begin [115A.1415] ARCHITECTURAL PAINT; PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP
PROGRAM; STEWARDSHIP PLAN.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Definitions. new text end

new text begin For purposes of this section, the following terms have
the meanings given:
new text end

new text begin (1) "architectural paint" means interior and exterior architectural coatings sold in
containers of five gallons or less. Architectural paint does not include industrial coatings,
original equipment coatings, or specialty coatings;
new text end

new text begin (2) "brand" means a name, symbol, word, or mark that identifies architectural paint,
rather than its components, and attributes the paint to the owner or licensee of the brand as
the producer;
new text end

new text begin (3) "discarded paint" means architectural paint that is no longer used for its
manufactured purpose;
new text end

new text begin (4) "producer" means a person that:
new text end

new text begin (i) has legal ownership of the brand, brand name, or cobrand of architectural paint
sold in the state;
new text end

new text begin (ii) imports architectural paint branded by a producer that meets subclause (i) when
the producer has no physical presence in the United States;
new text end

new text begin (iii) if subclauses (i) and (ii) do not apply, makes unbranded architectural paint
that is sold in the state; or
new text end

new text begin (iv) sells architectural paint at wholesale or retail, does not have legal ownership of
the brand, and elects to fulfill the responsibilities of the producer for the architectural paint
by certifying that election in writing to the commissioner;
new text end

new text begin (5) "recycling" means the process of collecting and preparing recyclable materials and
reusing the materials in their original form or using them in manufacturing processes that
do not cause the destruction of recyclable materials in a manner that precludes further use;
new text end

new text begin (6) "retailer" means any person who offers architectural paint for sale at retail in
the state;
new text end

new text begin (7) "reuse" means donating or selling collected architectural paint back into the
market for its original intended use, when the architectural paint retains its original
purpose and performance characteristics;
new text end

new text begin (8) "sale" or "sell" means transfer of title of architectural paint for consideration,
including a remote sale conducted through a sales outlet, catalog, Web site, or similar
electronic means. Sale or sell includes a lease through which architectural paint is
provided to a consumer by a producer, wholesaler, or retailer;
new text end

new text begin (9) "stewardship assessment" means the amount added to the purchase price of
architectural paint sold in the state that is necessary to cover the cost of collecting,
transporting, and processing postconsumer architectural paint by the producer or
stewardship organization pursuant to a product stewardship program;
new text end

new text begin (10) "stewardship organization" means an organization appointed by one or more
producers to act as an agent on behalf of the producer to design, submit, and administer a
product stewardship program under this section; and
new text end

new text begin (11) "stewardship plan" means a detailed plan describing the manner in which a
product stewardship program under subdivision 2 will be implemented.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Product stewardship program. new text end

new text begin For architectural paint sold in the state,
producers must, individually or through a stewardship organization, implement and
finance a statewide product stewardship program that manages the architectural paint by
reducing the paint's waste generation, promoting its reuse and recycling, and providing for
negotiation and execution of agreements to collect, transport, and process the architectural
paint for end-of-life recycling and reuse.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Requirement for sale. new text end

new text begin (a) On and after July 1, 2014, or three months after
program plan approval, whichever is sooner, no producer, wholesaler, or retailer may sell
or offer for sale in the state architectural paint unless the paint's producer participates in an
approved stewardship plan, either individually or through a stewardship organization.
new text end

new text begin (b) Each producer must operate a product stewardship program approved by the
agency or enter into an agreement with a stewardship organization to operate, on the
producer's behalf, a product stewardship program approved by the agency.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Requirement to submit plan. new text end

new text begin (a) On or before March 1, 2014, and before
offering architectural paint for sale in the state, a producer must submit a stewardship
plan to the agency and receive approval of the plan or must submit documentation to the
agency that demonstrates the producer has entered into an agreement with a stewardship
organization to be an active participant in an approved product stewardship program as
described in subdivision 2. A stewardship plan must include all elements required under
subdivision 5.
new text end

new text begin (b) An amendment to the plan, if determined necessary by the commissioner, must
be submitted every five years.
new text end

new text begin (c) It is the responsibility of the entities responsible for each stewardship plan to
notify the agency within 30 days of any significant changes or modifications to the plan or
its implementation. Within 30 days of the notification, a written plan revision must be
submitted to the agency for review and approval.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Stewardship plan content. new text end

new text begin A stewardship plan must contain:
new text end

new text begin (1) certification that the product stewardship program will accept all discarded
paint regardless of which producer produced the architectural paint and its individual
components;
new text end

new text begin (2) contact information for the individual and the entity submitting the plan, a list of
all producers participating in the product stewardship program, and the brands covered by
the product stewardship program;
new text end

new text begin (3) a description of the methods by which the discarded paint will be collected in all
areas in the state without relying on end-of-life fees, including an explanation of how the
collection system will be convenient and adequate to serve the needs of small businesses
and residents in both urban and rural areas on an ongoing basis and a discussion of how
the existing household hazardous waste infrastructure will be considered when selecting
collection sites;
new text end

new text begin (4) a description of how the adequacy of the collection program will be monitored
and maintained;
new text end

new text begin (5) the names and locations of collectors, transporters, and recyclers that will
manage discarded paint;
new text end

new text begin (6) a description of how the discarded paint and the paint's components will be
safely and securely transported, tracked, and handled from collection through final
recycling and processing;
new text end

new text begin (7) a description of the method that will be used to reuse, deconstruct, or recycle
the discarded paint to ensure that the paint's components, to the extent feasible, are
transformed or remanufactured into finished products for use;
new text end

new text begin (8) a description of the promotion and outreach activities that will be used to
encourage participation in the collection and recycling programs and how the activities'
effectiveness will be evaluated and the program modified, if necessary;
new text end

new text begin (9) the proposed stewardship assessment. The producer or stewardship organization
shall propose a uniform stewardship assessment for any architectural paint sold in the
state. The proposed stewardship assessment shall be reviewed by an independent auditor
to ensure that the assessment does not exceed the costs of the product stewardship program
and the independent auditor shall recommend an amount for the stewardship assessment.
The agency must approve the stewardship assessment;
new text end

new text begin (10) evidence of adequate insurance and financial assurance that may be required for
collection, handling, and disposal operations;
new text end

new text begin (11) five-year performance goals, including an estimate of the percentage of
discarded paint that will be collected, reused, and recycled during each of the first five
years of the stewardship plan. The performance goals must include a specific goal for the
amount of discarded paint that will be collected and recycled and reused during each year
of the plan. The performance goals must be based on:
new text end

new text begin (i) the most recent collection data available for the state;
new text end

new text begin (ii) the estimated amount of architectural paint disposed of annually;
new text end

new text begin (iii) the weight of the architectural paint that is expected to be available for collection
annually; and
new text end

new text begin (iv) actual collection data from other existing stewardship programs.
new text end

new text begin The stewardship plan must state the methodology used to determine these goals; and
new text end

new text begin (12) a discussion of the status of end markets for collected architectural paint and
what, if any, additional end markets are needed to improve the functioning of the program.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Consultation required. new text end

new text begin Each stewardship organization or individual
producer submitting a stewardship plan must consult with stakeholders including
retailers, contractors, collectors, recyclers, local government, and customers during the
development of the plan.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Agency review and approval. new text end

new text begin (a) Within 90 days after receipt of a proposed
stewardship plan, the agency shall determine whether the plan complies with subdivision
4. If the agency approves a plan, the agency shall notify the applicant of the plan approval
in writing. If the agency rejects a plan, the agency shall notify the applicant in writing of
the reasons for rejecting the plan. An applicant whose plan is rejected by the agency must
submit a revised plan to the agency within 60 days after receiving notice of rejection.
new text end

new text begin (b) Any proposed changes to a stewardship plan must be approved by the agency
in writing.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Plan availability. new text end

new text begin All draft and approved stewardship plans shall be
placed on the agency's Web site for at least 30 days and made available at the agency's
headquarters for public review and comment.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Conduct authorized. new text end

new text begin A producer or stewardship organization that
organizes collection, transport, and processing of architectural paint under this section
is immune from liability for the conduct under state laws relating to antitrust, restraint
of trade, unfair trade practices, and other regulation of trade or commerce only to the
extent that the conduct is necessary to plan and implement the producer's or organization's
chosen organized collection or recycling system.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Responsibility of producers. new text end

new text begin (a) On and after the date of implementation
of a product stewardship program according to this section, a producer of architectural
paint must add the stewardship assessment, as established under subdivision 5, clause (9),
to the cost of architectural paint sold to retailers and distributors in the state by the producer.
new text end

new text begin (b) Producers of architectural paint or the stewardship organization shall provide
consumers with educational materials regarding the stewardship assessment and product
stewardship program. The materials must include, but are not limited to, information
regarding available end-of-life management options for architectural paint offered through
the product stewardship program and information that notifies consumers that a charge
for the operation of the product stewardship program is included in the purchase price of
architectural paint sold in the state.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 11. new text end

new text begin Responsibility of retailers. new text end

new text begin (a) On and after July 1, 2014, or three months
after program plan approval, whichever is sooner, no architectural paint may be sold in the
state unless the paint's producer is participating in an approved stewardship plan.
new text end

new text begin (b) On and after the implementation date of a product stewardship program
according to this section, each retailer or distributor, as applicable, must ensure that the
full amount of the stewardship assessment added to the cost of paint by producers under
subdivision 10 is included in the purchase price of all architectural paint sold in the state.
new text end

new text begin (c) Any retailer may participate, on a voluntary basis, as a designated collection
point pursuant to a product stewardship program under this section and in accordance
with applicable law.
new text end

new text begin (d) No retailer or distributor shall be found to be in violation of this subdivision if,
on the date the architectural paint was ordered from the producer or its agent, the producer
was listed as compliant on the agency's Web site according to subdivision 14.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 12. new text end

new text begin Stewardship reports. new text end

new text begin Beginning October 1, 2015, producers of
architectural paint sold in the state must individually or through a stewardship organization
submit an annual report to the agency describing the product stewardship program. At a
minimum, the report must contain:
new text end

new text begin (1) a description of the methods used to collect, transport, and process architectural
paint in all regions of the state;
new text end

new text begin (2) the weight of all architectural paint collected in all regions of the state and a
comparison to the performance goals and recycling rates established in the stewardship
plan;
new text end

new text begin (3) the amount of unwanted architectural paint collected in the state by method of
disposition, including reuse, recycling, and other methods of processing;
new text end

new text begin (4) samples of educational materials provided to consumers and an evaluation of the
effectiveness of the materials and the methods used to disseminate the materials; and
new text end

new text begin (5) an independent financial audit.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 13. new text end

new text begin Sales information. new text end

new text begin Sales information provided to the commissioner
under this section is classified as private or nonpublic data, as specified in section
115A.06, subdivision 13.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 14. new text end

new text begin Agency responsibilities. new text end

new text begin The agency shall provide, on its Web site, a
list of all compliant producers and brands participating in stewardship plans that the
agency has approved and a list of all producers and brands the agency has identified as
noncompliant with this section.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 15. new text end

new text begin Local government responsibilities. new text end

new text begin (a) A city, county, or other public
agency may choose to participate voluntarily in a product stewardship program.
new text end

new text begin (b) Cities, counties, and other public agencies are encouraged to work with producers
and stewardship organizations to assist in meeting product stewardship program reuse and
recycling obligations, by providing education and outreach or using other strategies.
new text end

new text begin (c) A city, county, or other public agency that participates in a product stewardship
program must report for the first year of the program to the agency using the reporting
form provided by the agency on the cost savings as a result of participation and describe
how the savings were used.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 16. new text end

new text begin Administrative fee. new text end

new text begin (a) The stewardship organization or individual
producer submitting a stewardship plan shall pay an annual administrative fee to the
commissioner. The agency may establish a variable fee based on relevant factors,
including, but not limited to, the portion of architectural paint sold in the state by members
of the organization compared to the total amount of architectural paint sold in the state by
all organizations submitting a stewardship plan.
new text end

new text begin (b) Prior to July 1, 2014, and before July 1 annually thereafter, the agency shall
identify the costs it incurs under this section. The agency shall set the fee at an amount
that, when paid by every stewardship organization or individual producer that submits a
stewardship plan, is adequate to reimburse the agency's full costs of administering this
section. The total amount of annual fees collected under this subdivision must not exceed
the amount necessary to reimburse costs incurred by the agency to administer this section.
new text end

new text begin (c) A stewardship organization or individual producer subject to this subdivision
must pay the agency's administrative fee under paragraph (a) on or before July 1, 2014 and
annually thereafter. Each year after the initial payment, the annual administrative fee may
not exceed five percent of the aggregate stewardship assessment added to the cost of all
architectural paint sold by producers in the state for the preceding calendar year.
new text end

new text begin (d) All fees received under this section shall be deposited to the state treasury and
credited to a product stewardship account in the Special Revenue Fund. Money in the
account is appropriated to the commissioner for the purpose of reimbursing the agency's
costs incurred to administer this section.
new text end

Sec. 90.

new text begin [115A.142] PRIMARY BATTERIES; PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP
PROGRAM; STEWARDSHIP PLAN.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Definitions. new text end

new text begin For purposes of this section, the following terms have
the meaning given:
new text end

new text begin (1) "brand" means a name, symbol, word, or mark that identifies a primary battery,
rather than its components, and attributes the battery to the owner or licensee of the brand
as the producer;
new text end

new text begin (2) "discarded battery" means a primary battery that is no longer used for its
manufactured purpose;
new text end

new text begin (3) "primary battery" means a battery weighing two kilograms or less that is not
designed to be electrically recharged, including, but not limited to, alkaline manganese,
carbon zinc, lithium, silver oxide, and zinc air batteries. Nonremovable batteries and
medical devices as defined in the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, United States
Code, title 21, section 321, paragraph (h), as amended, are exempted from this definition.
new text end

new text begin (4) "producer" means a person that:
new text end

new text begin (i) has legal ownership of the brand, brand name, or cobrand of a primary battery
sold in the state;
new text end

new text begin (ii) imports a primary battery branded by a producer that meets subclause (i) when
the producer has no physical presence in the United States;
new text end

new text begin (iii) if subclauses (i) and (ii) do not apply, makes an unbranded primary battery
that is sold in the state; or
new text end

new text begin (iv) sells a primary battery at wholesale or retail, does not have legal ownership
of the brand, and elects to fulfill the responsibilities of the producer for the battery by
certifying that election in writing to the commissioner;
new text end

new text begin (5) "recycling" means the process of collecting and preparing recyclable materials and
reusing the materials in their original form or using them in manufacturing processes that
do not cause the destruction of recyclable materials in a manner that precludes further use;
new text end

new text begin (6) "retailer" means any person who offers primary batteries for sale at retail in
the state;
new text end

new text begin (7) "sale" or "sell" means transfer of title of a primary battery for consideration,
including a remote sale conducted through a sales outlet, catalog, Web site, or similar
electronic means. Sale or sell includes a lease through which a primary battery is provided
to a consumer by a producer, wholesaler, or retailer;
new text end

new text begin (8) "stewardship organization" means an organization appointed by one or more
producers to act as an agent on behalf of the producer to design, submit, and administer a
product stewardship program under this section; and
new text end

new text begin (9) "stewardship plan" means a detailed plan describing the manner in which a
product stewardship program under subdivision 2 will be implemented.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Product stewardship program. new text end

new text begin For each primary battery sold in the
state, producers must, individually or through a stewardship organization, implement
and finance a statewide product stewardship program that manages primary batteries by
reducing primary battery waste generation, promoting primary battery recycling, and
providing for negotiation and execution of agreements to collect, transport, and process
primary batteries for end-of-life recycling.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Requirement for sale. new text end

new text begin (a) On and after December 1, 2014, or three months
after program plan approval, whichever is sooner, no producer, wholesaler, or retailer may
sell or offer for sale in the state a primary battery unless the battery's producer participates
in an approved stewardship plan, either individually or through a stewardship organization.
new text end

new text begin (b) Each producer must operate a product stewardship program approved by the
agency or enter into an agreement with a stewardship organization to operate, on the
producer's behalf, a product stewardship program approved by the agency.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Requirement to submit plan. new text end

new text begin (a) On or before August 1, 2014, and before
offering a primary battery for sale in the state, a producer must submit a stewardship
plan to the agency and receive approval of the plan or must submit documentation to the
agency that demonstrates the producer has entered into an agreement with a stewardship
organization to be an active participant in an approved product stewardship program as
described in subdivision 2. A stewardship plan must include all elements required under
subdivision 5.
new text end

new text begin (b) An amendment to the plan, if determined necessary by the commissioner, must
be submitted every five years.
new text end

new text begin (c) It is the responsibility of the entities responsible for each stewardship plan to
notify the agency within 30 days of any significant changes or modifications to the plan or
its implementation. Within 30 days of the notification, a written plan revision must be
submitted to the agency for review and approval.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Stewardship plan content. new text end

new text begin A stewardship plan must contain:
new text end

new text begin (1) certification that the product stewardship program will accept discarded primary
batteries regardless of which producer produced the batteries and their individual
components;
new text end

new text begin (2) contact information for the individual and the entity submitting the plan, a list of
all producers participating in the product stewardship program, and the brands covered by
the product stewardship program;
new text end

new text begin (3) a description of the methods by which the discarded primary batteries will
be collected in all areas in the state without relying on end-of-life fees, including an
explanation of how the collection system will be convenient and adequate to serve the
needs of small businesses and residents in both urban and rural areas on an ongoing basis;
new text end

new text begin (4) a description of how the adequacy of the collection program will be monitored
and maintained;
new text end

new text begin (5) the names and locations of collectors, transporters, and recyclers that will
manage discarded batteries;
new text end

new text begin (6) a description of how the discarded primary batteries and the batteries'
components will be safely and securely transported, tracked, and handled from collection
through final recycling and processing;
new text end

new text begin (7) a description of the method that will be used to recycle the discarded primary
batteries to ensure that the batteries' components, to the extent feasible, are transformed or
remanufactured into finished batteries for use;
new text end

new text begin (8) a description of the promotion and outreach activities that will be used to
encourage participation in the collection and recycling programs and how the activities'
effectiveness will be evaluated and the program modified, if necessary;
new text end

new text begin (9) evidence of adequate insurance and financial assurance that may be required for
collection, handling, and disposal operations;
new text end

new text begin (10) five-year performance goals, including an estimate of the percentage of
discarded primary batteries that will be collected, reused, and recycled during each of the
first five years of the stewardship plan. The performance goals must include a specific
escalating goal for the amount of discarded primary batteries that will be collected and
recycled during each year of the plan. The performance goals must be based on:
new text end

new text begin (i) the most recent collection data available for the state;
new text end

new text begin (ii) the estimated amount of primary batteries disposed of annually;
new text end

new text begin (iii) the weight of primary batteries that is expected to be available for collection
annually;
new text end

new text begin (iv) actual collection data from other existing stewardship programs; and
new text end

new text begin (v) the market share of the producers participating in the plan.
new text end

new text begin The stewardship plan must state the methodology used to determine these goals; and
new text end

new text begin (11) a discussion of the status of end markets for discarded batteries and what, if any,
additional end markets are needed to improve the functioning of the program.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Consultation required. new text end

new text begin Each stewardship organization or individual
producer submitting a stewardship plan must consult with stakeholders including retailers,
collectors, recyclers, local government, and customers during the development of the plan.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Agency review and approval. new text end

new text begin (a) Within 90 days after receipt of a proposed
stewardship plan, the agency shall determine whether the plan complies with subdivision
5. If the agency approves a plan, the agency shall notify the applicant of the plan approval
in writing. If the agency rejects a plan, the agency shall notify the applicant in writing of
the reasons for rejecting the plan. An applicant whose plan is rejected by the agency must
submit a revised plan to the agency within 60 days after receiving notice of rejection.
new text end

new text begin (b) Any proposed changes to a stewardship plan must be approved by the agency
in writing.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Plan availability. new text end

new text begin All draft and approved stewardship plans shall be
placed on the agency's Web site for at least 30 days and made available at the agency's
headquarters for public review and comment.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Conduct authorized. new text end

new text begin A producer or stewardship organization that
organizes collection, transport, and processing of primary batteries under this section
is immune from liability for the conduct under state laws relating to antitrust, restraint
of trade, unfair trade practices, and other regulation of trade or commerce only to the
extent that the conduct is necessary to plan and implement the producer's or organization's
chosen organized collection or recycling system.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Responsibility of retailers. new text end

new text begin (a) On and after December 1, 2014, or three
months after program plan approval, whichever is sooner, no primary battery may be sold
in the state unless the battery's producer is participating in an approved stewardship plan.
new text end

new text begin (b) Any retailer may participate, on a voluntary basis, as a designated collection
point pursuant to a product stewardship program under this section and in accordance
with applicable law.
new text end

new text begin (c) No retailer or distributor shall be found to be in violation of this subdivision if,
on the date the primary battery was ordered from the producer or its agent, the producer
was listed as compliant on the agency's Web site according to subdivision 12.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 11. new text end

new text begin Stewardship reports. new text end

new text begin Beginning March 1, 2016, producers of primary
batteries sold in the state must individually or through a stewardship organization
submit an annual report to the agency describing the product stewardship program. At a
minimum, the report must contain:
new text end

new text begin (1) a description of the methods used to collect, transport, and process primary
batteries in all regions of the state;
new text end

new text begin (2) the weight of all primary batteries collected in all regions of the state and a
comparison to the performance goals and recycling rates established in the stewardship
plan;
new text end

new text begin (3) the amount of discarded primary batteries collected in the state by method of
disposition, including recycling, and other methods of processing;
new text end

new text begin (4) samples of educational materials provided to consumers and an evaluation of the
effectiveness of the materials and the methods used to disseminate the materials; and
new text end

new text begin (5) an independent financial audit of the stewardship organization.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 12. new text end

new text begin Agency responsibilities. new text end

new text begin The agency shall provide, on its Web site, a
list of all compliant producers and brands participating in stewardship plans that the
agency has approved and a list of all producers and brands the agency has identified as
noncompliant with this section.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 13. new text end

new text begin Sales information. new text end

new text begin Sales information provided to the commissioner
under this section is classified as private or nonpublic data, as specified in section
115A.06, subdivision 13.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 14. new text end

new text begin Local government responsibilities. new text end

new text begin (a) A city, county, or other public
agency may choose to participate voluntarily in a product stewardship program.
new text end

new text begin (b) Cities, counties, and other public agencies are encouraged to work with producers
and stewardship organizations to assist in meeting product stewardship program recycling
obligations, by providing education and outreach or using other strategies.
new text end

new text begin (c) A city, county, or other public agency that participates in a product stewardship
program must report for the first year of the program to the agency using the reporting
form provided by the agency on the cost savings as a result of participation and describe
how the savings were used.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 15. new text end

new text begin Administrative fee. new text end

new text begin (a) The stewardship organization or individual
producer submitting a stewardship plan shall pay an annual administrative fee to the
commissioner. The agency may establish a variable fee based on relevant factors,
including, but not limited to, the portion of primary batteries sold in the state by members
of the organization compared to the total amount of primary batteries sold in the state by
all organizations submitting a stewardship plan.
new text end

new text begin (b) Prior to July 1, 2015, and before July 1 annually thereafter, the agency shall
identify the costs it incurs under this section. The agency shall set the fee at an amount
that, when paid by every stewardship organization or individual producer that submits a
stewardship plan, is adequate to reimburse the agency's full costs of administering this
section. The total amount of annual fees collected under this subdivision must not exceed
the amount necessary to reimburse costs incurred by the agency to administer this section.
new text end

new text begin (c) A stewardship organization or individual producer subject to this subdivision
must pay the agency's administrative fee under paragraph (a) on or before July 1, 2015
and annually thereafter.
new text end

new text begin (d) All fees received under this section shall be deposited to the state treasury and
credited to a product stewardship account in the Special Revenue Fund. Money in the
account is appropriated to the commissioner for the purpose of reimbursing the agency's
costs incurred to administer this section.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 16. new text end

new text begin Exemption; medical device. new text end

new text begin The requirements of this section do not
apply to a medical device as defined in the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, United States
Code, title 21, section 321, paragraph (h).
new text end

new text begin Subd. 17. new text end

new text begin Private enforcement. new text end

new text begin (a) The operator of a statewide product stewardship
program established under subdivision 2 that incurs costs exceeding $5,000 to collect,
handle, recycle, or properly dispose of discarded primary batteries sold or offered for sale
in Minnesota by a producer who does not implement its own program or participate in a
program implemented by a stewardship organization, may bring a civil action or actions
to recover costs and fees as specified in paragraph (b) from each nonimplementing or
nonparticipating producer who can reasonably be identified from a brand or marking on a
used consumer battery or from other information.
new text end

new text begin (b) An action under paragraph (a) may be brought against one or more primary
battery producers, provided that no such action may be commenced:
new text end

new text begin (1) prior to 60 days after written notice of the operator's intention to file suit has been
provided to the agency and the defendant or defendants; or
new text end

new text begin (2) if the agency has commenced enforcement actions under subdivision 10 and is
diligently pursuing such actions.
new text end

new text begin (c) In any action under paragraph (b), the plaintiff operator may recover from
a defendant nonimplementing or nonparticipating primary battery producer costs the
plaintiff incurred to collect, handle, recycle, or properly dispose of primary batteries
reasonably identified as having originated from the defendant, plus the plaintiff's attorney
fees and litigation costs.
new text end

Sec. 91.

new text begin [115A.1425] REPORT TO LEGISLATURE AND GOVERNOR.
new text end

new text begin As part of the report required under section 115A.121, the commissioner of the
Pollution Control Agency shall provide a report to the governor and the legislature on the
implementation of sections 115A.141, 115A.1415, and 115A.142.
new text end

Sec. 92.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115B.20, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Report to legislature.

deleted text begin Each year deleted text end new text begin By January 31 of each odd-numbered
year new text end , the commissioner of agriculture and the agency shall submit to the senate Finance
Committee, the house of representatives Ways and Means Committee, the Environment
and Natural Resources Committees of the senate and house of representatives, the Finance
Division of the senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, and the house
of representatives Committee on Environment and Natural Resources Finance, and the
Environmental Quality Board a report detailing the activities for which money has been
spent pursuant to this section during the previous fiscal year.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective July 1, 2013.
new text end

Sec. 93.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115B.28, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Duties.

In addition to performing duties specified in sections
115B.25 to 115B.37 or in other law, and subject to the limitations on disclosure contained
in section 115B.35, the agency shall:

(1) adopt rules, including rules governing practice and procedure before the agency,
the form and procedure for applications for compensation, and procedures for claims
investigations;

(2) publicize the availability of compensation and application procedures on a
statewide basis with special emphasis on geographical areas surrounding sites identified
by the agency as having releases from a facility where a harmful substance was placed or
came to be located prior to July 1, 1983;

(3) collect, analyze, and make available to the public, in consultation with the
Department of Health, the Pollution Control Agency, the University of Minnesota Medical
and Public Health Schools, and the medical community, data regarding injuries relating to
exposure to harmful substances; and

(4) prepare and transmit deleted text begin by December 31 of each year to the governor and deleted text end the
deleted text begin legislature an annual deleted text end new text begin legislative new text end report new text begin required under section 115B.20, subdivision
6, new text end to include (i) a summary of agency activity under clause (3); (ii) data determined
by the agency from actual cases, including but not limited to number of cases, actual
compensation received by each claimant, types of cases, and types of injuries compensated,
as they relate to types of harmful substances as well as length of exposure, but excluding
identification of the claimants; (iii) all administrative costs associated with the business of
the agency; and (iv) agency recommendations for legislative changes, further study, or any
other recommendation aimed at improving the system of compensation.

Sec. 94.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115C.02, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Corrective action.

"Corrective action" means an action taken to minimize,
eliminate, or clean up a release to protect the public health and welfare or the environment.
new text begin Corrective action may include environmental covenants pursuant to chapter 114E, an
affidavit required under section 116.48, subdivision 6, or similar notice of a release
recorded with real property records.
new text end

Sec. 95.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115C.08, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Expenditures.

(a) Money in the fund may only be spent:

(1) to administer the petroleum tank release cleanup program established in this
chapter;

(2) for agency administrative costs under sections 116.46 to 116.50, sections
115C.03 to 115C.06, and costs of corrective action taken by the agency under section
115C.03, including investigations;

(3) for costs of recovering expenses of corrective actions under section 115C.04;

(4) for training, certification, and rulemaking under sections 116.46 to 116.50;

(5) for agency administrative costs of enforcing rules governing the construction,
installation, operation, and closure of aboveground and underground petroleum storage
tanks;

(6) for reimbursement of the environmental response, compensation, and compliance
account under subdivision 5 and section 115B.26, subdivision 4;

(7) for administrative and staff costs as set by the board to administer the petroleum
tank release program established in this chapter;

(8) for corrective action performance audits under section 115C.093;

(9) for contamination cleanup grants, as provided in paragraph (c);

(10) to assess and remove abandoned underground storage tanks under section
115C.094 and, if a release is discovered, to pay for the specific consultant and contractor
services costs necessary to complete the tank removal project, including, but not limited
to, excavation soil sampling, groundwater sampling, soil disposal, and completion of
an excavation report; and

(11) deleted text begin for property acquisition by the agency when the agency has determined that
purchasing a property where a release has occurred is the most appropriate corrective
action. The deleted text end new text begin to acquire interests in real or personal property, including easements,
environmental covenants under chapter 114E, and leases, that the agency determines are
necessary for corrective actions or to ensure the protectiveness of corrective actions. A
donation of an interest in real property to the agency is not effective until the agency
executes a certificate of acceptance. The state is not liable under this chapter solely as a
result of acquiring an interest in real property under this clause. Agency approval of an
environmental covenant under chapter 114E is sufficient evidence of acceptance of an
interest in real property when the agency is expressly identified as a holder in the covenant.
new text end Acquisition of deleted text begin all properties deleted text end new text begin real property under this clause, except environmental
covenants under chapter 114E, new text end is subject to approval by the board.

(b) Except as provided in paragraph (c), money in the fund is appropriated to the
board to make reimbursements or payments under this section.

(c) In fiscal years 2010 and 2011, $3,700,000 is annually appropriated from the fund
to the commissioner of employment and economic development for contamination cleanup
grants under section 116J.554. Beginning in fiscal year 2012 and each year thereafter,
$6,200,000 is annually appropriated from the fund to the commissioner of employment
and economic development for contamination cleanup grants under section 116J.554. Of
this amount, the commissioner may spend up to $225,000 annually for administration
of the contamination cleanup grant program. The appropriation does not cancel and is
available until expended. The appropriation shall not be withdrawn from the fund nor the
fund balance reduced until the funds are requested by the commissioner of employment
and economic development. The commissioner shall schedule requests for withdrawals
from the fund to minimize the necessity to impose the fee authorized by subdivision 2.
Unless otherwise provided, the appropriation in this paragraph may be used for:

(1) project costs at a qualifying site if a portion of the cleanup costs are attributable
to petroleum contamination or new and used tar and tar-like substances, including but not
limited to bitumen and asphalt, but excluding bituminous or asphalt pavement, that consist
primarily of hydrocarbons and are found in natural deposits in the earth or are distillates,
fractions, or residues from the processing of petroleum crude or petroleum products as
defined in section 296A.01; and

(2) the costs of performing contamination investigation if there is a reasonable basis
to suspect the contamination is attributable to petroleum or new and used tar and tar-like
substances, including but not limited to bitumen and asphalt, but excluding bituminous or
asphalt pavement, that consist primarily of hydrocarbons and are found in natural deposits
in the earth or are distillates, fractions, or residues from the processing of petroleum crude
or petroleum products as defined in section 296A.01.

Sec. 96.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115C.08, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Disposition of property acquired for corrective action. new text end

new text begin (a) If the
commissioner determines that real or personal property acquired by the agency for a
corrective action is no longer needed for corrective action purposes, the commissioner may:
new text end

new text begin (1) request the commissioner of administration to dispose of the property according
to sections 16B.281 to 16B.287, subject to conditions the commissioner of the Pollution
Control Agency determines necessary to protect the public health and welfare and the
environment or to comply with federal law;
new text end

new text begin (2) transfer the property to another state agency, a political subdivision, or a special
purpose district as provided in paragraph (b); or
new text end

new text begin (3) if required by federal law, take actions and dispose of the property according
to federal law.
new text end

new text begin (b) If the commissioner determines that real or personal property acquired by
the agency for a corrective action must be operated, maintained, or monitored after
completion of other phases of the corrective action, the commissioner may transfer
ownership of the property to another state agency, a political subdivision, or a special
purpose district that agrees to accept the property. A state agency, political subdivision,
or special purpose district may accept and implement terms and conditions of a transfer
under this paragraph. The commissioner may set terms and conditions for the transfer
that the commissioner considers reasonable and necessary to ensure proper operation,
maintenance, and monitoring of corrective actions; protect the public health and welfare
and the environment; and comply with applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
The state agency, political subdivision, or special purpose district to which the property is
transferred is not liable under this chapter solely as a result of acquiring the property or
acting in accordance with the terms and conditions of transfer.
new text end

new text begin (c) The proceeds of a sale or other transfer of property under this subdivision
by the commissioner or by the commissioner of administration shall be deposited in
the petroleum tank fund or other appropriate fund. Any share of the proceeds that the
agency is required by federal law or regulation to reimburse to the federal government is
appropriated from the fund to the agency for the purpose. Section 16B.287, subdivision 1,
does not apply to real property that is sold by the commissioner of administration and that
was acquired under subdivision 4, clause (11).
new text end

Sec. 97.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115D.10, is amended to read:

115D.10 TOXIC POLLUTION PREVENTION EVALUATION REPORT.

The commissioner, in cooperation with the commission, shall report to
the Environment and Natural Resources Committees of the senate and house of
representatives, the Finance Division of the senate Committee on Environment and
Natural Resources, and the house of representatives Committee on Environment and
Natural Resources Finance on progress being made in achieving the objectives of sections
115D.01 to 115D.12. The report must be deleted text begin submitted by February 1 of each even-numbered
year deleted text end new text begin done in conjunction with the report required under section 115A.121 new text end .

Sec. 98.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116.48, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Affidavit.

new text begin (a) new text end Before transferring ownership of property that the owner
knows contains an underground or aboveground storage tank or contained an underground
or aboveground storage tank that had a release for which no corrective action was taken new text begin or
if required by the agency as a condition of a corrective action under chapter 115C new text end , the
owner shall record with the county recorder or registrar of titles of the county in which the
property is located an affidavit containing:

(1) a legal description of the property where the tank is located;

(2) a description of the tank, of the location of the tank, and of any known release
from the tank of a regulated substance new text begin to the full extent known or reasonably ascertainable new text end ;

(3) a description of any restrictions currently in force on the use of the property
resulting from any release; and

(4) the name of the owner.

new text begin (b) new text end The county recorder shall record the affidavits in a manner that will insure
their disclosure in the ordinary course of a title search of the subject property. Before
transferring ownership of property that the owner knows contains an underground or
aboveground storage tank, the owner shall deliver to the purchaser a copy of the affidavit
and any additional information necessary to make the facts in the affidavit accurate as of
the date of transfer of ownership.

new text begin (c) Failure to record an affidavit as provided in this subdivision does not affect or
prevent any transfer of ownership of the property.
new text end

Sec. 99.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116C.03, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Membership.

The members of the board are the deleted text begin director of the Office of
Strategic and Long-Range Planning deleted text end new text begin commissioner of administration new text end , the commissioner
of commerce, the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency, the commissioner
of natural resources, the commissioner of agriculture, the commissioner of health,
the commissioner of employment and economic development, the commissioner of
transportation, the chair of the Board of Water and Soil Resources, and a representative of
the governor's office designated by the governor. The governor shall appoint five members
from the general public to the board, subject to the advice and consent of the senate.
At least two of the five public members must have knowledge of and be conversant in
water management issues in the state. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 15.06,
subdivision 6, members of the board may not delegate their powers and responsibilities as
board members to any other person.

Sec. 100.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116C.03, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Support.

Staff and consultant support for board activities shall be provided
by the deleted text begin Office of Strategic and Long-Range Planning deleted text end new text begin Pollution Control Agency new text end . This
support shall be provided based upon an annual budget and work program developed by
the board and certified to the commissioner by the chair of the board. The board shall
have the authority to request and require staff support from all other agencies of state
government as needed for the execution of the responsibilities of the board.

Sec. 101.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116C.03, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Administration.

The board shall contract with the deleted text begin Office of Strategic and
Long-Range Planning deleted text end new text begin Pollution Control Agency new text end for administrative services necessary to
the board's activities. The services shall include personnel, budget, payroll and contract
administration.

Sec. 102.

new text begin [116C.99] SILICA SAND MINING MODEL STANDARDS AND
CRITERIA.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Definitions. new text end

new text begin The definitions in this subdivision apply to this section.
new text end

new text begin (a) "Local unit of government" means a county, statutory or home rule charter city,
or town.
new text end

new text begin (b) "Mining" means excavating and mining silica sand by any process, including
digging, excavating, mining, drilling, blasting, tunneling, dredging, stripping, or by shaft.
new text end

new text begin (c) "Processing" means washing, cleaning, screening, crushing, filtering, sorting,
processing, stockpiling, and storing silica sand, either at the mining site or at any other site.
new text end

new text begin (d) "Silica sand" means well-rounded, sand-sized grains of quartz (silicon dioxide),
with very little impurities in terms of other minerals. Specifically, the silica sand for the
purposes of this section is commercially valuable for use in the hydraulic fracturing of
shale to obtain oil and natural gas. Silica sand does not include common rock, stone,
aggregate, gravel, sand with a low quartz level, or silica compounds recovered as a
by-product of metallic mining.
new text end

new text begin (e) "Silica sand project" means the excavation and mining and processing of silica
sand; the washing, cleaning, screening, crushing, filtering, drying, sorting, stockpiling,
and storing of silica sand, either at the mining site or at any other site; the hauling and
transporting of silica sand; or a facility for transporting silica sand to destinations by rail,
barge, truck, or other means of transportation.
new text end

new text begin (f) "Temporary storage" means the storage of stock piles of silica sand that have
been transported and await further transport.
new text end

new text begin (g) "Transporting" means hauling and transporting silica sand, by any carrier:
new text end

new text begin (1) from the mining site to a processing or transfer site; or
new text end

new text begin (2) from a processing or storage site to a rail, barge, or transfer site for transporting
to destinations.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Standards and criteria. new text end

new text begin (a) By October 1, 2013, the Environmental
Quality Board, in consultation with local units of government, shall develop model
standards and criteria for mining, processing, and transporting silica sand. These standards
and criteria may be used by local units of government in developing local ordinances.
The standards and criteria must include:
new text end

new text begin (1) recommendations for setbacks or buffers for mining operation and processing,
including:
new text end

new text begin (i) any residence or residential zoning district boundary;
new text end

new text begin (ii) any property line or right-of-way line of any existing or proposed street or
highway;
new text end

new text begin (iii) ordinary high water levels of public waters;
new text end

new text begin (iv) bluffs;
new text end

new text begin (v) designated trout streams, Class 2A water as designated in the rules of the
Pollution Control Agency, or any perennially flowing tributary of a designated trout
stream or Class 2A water;
new text end

new text begin (vi) calcareous fens;
new text end

new text begin (vii) wellhead protection areas as defined in section 103I.005;
new text end

new text begin (viii) critical natural habitat acquired by the commissioner of natural resources
under section 84.944; and
new text end

new text begin (ix) a natural resource easement paid wholly or in part by public funds;
new text end

new text begin (2) standards for hours of operation;
new text end

new text begin (3) groundwater and surface water quality and quantity monitoring and mitigation
plan requirements, including:
new text end

new text begin (i) applicable groundwater and surface water appropriation permit requirements;
new text end

new text begin (ii) well sealing requirements;
new text end

new text begin (iii) annual submission of monitoring well data; and
new text end

new text begin (iv) storm water runoff rate limits not to exceed two-, ten-, and 100-year storm events;
new text end

new text begin (4) air monitoring and data submission requirements;
new text end

new text begin (5) dust control requirements;
new text end

new text begin (6) noise testing and mitigation plan requirements;
new text end

new text begin (7) blast monitoring plan requirements;
new text end

new text begin (8) lighting requirements;
new text end

new text begin (9) inspection requirements;
new text end

new text begin (10) containment requirements for silica sand in temporary storage to protect air
and water quality;
new text end

new text begin (11) containment requirements for chemicals used in processing;
new text end

new text begin (12) financial assurance requirements;
new text end

new text begin (13) road and bridge impacts and requirements; and
new text end

new text begin (14) reclamation plan requirements as required under the rules adopted by the
commissioner of natural resources.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Silica sand technical assistance team. new text end

new text begin By October 1, 2013, the
Environmental Quality Board shall assemble a silica sand technical assistance team
to provide local units of government, at their request, with assistance with ordinance
development, zoning, environmental review and permitting, monitoring, or other issues
arising from silica sand mining and processing operations. The technical assistance team
shall be comprised of up to seven members, and shall be chosen from the following
entities: the Department of Natural Resources, the Pollution Control Agency, the Board of
Water and Soil Resources, the Department of Health, the Department of Transportation,
the University of Minnesota, and the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. A
majority of the members must be from a state agency and have expertise in one or more of
the following areas: silica sand mining, hydrology, air quality, water quality, land use, or
other areas related to silica sand mining.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Consideration of technical assistance team recommendations. new text end

new text begin (a) When
the technical assistance team, at the request of the local unit of government, assembles
findings or makes a recommendation related to a proposed silica sand project for the
protection of human health and the environment, a local government unit must consider
the findings or recommendations of the technical assistance team in its approval or denial
of a silica sand project. If the local government unit does not agree with the technical
assistance team's findings and recommendations, the detailed reasons for the disagreement
must be part of the local government unit's record of decision.
new text end

new text begin (b) Silica sand project proposers must cooperate in providing local government unit
staff, and members of the technical assistance team with information regarding the project.
new text end

new text begin (c) When a local unit of government requests assistance from the silica sand
technical assistance team for environmental review or permitting of a silica sand project
the local unit of government may assess the project proposer for reasonable costs of the
assistance and use the funds received to reimburse the entity providing that assistance.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment.
new text end

Sec. 103.

new text begin [116C.991] TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, ORDINANCE, AND PERMIT
LIBRARY.
new text end

new text begin By October 1, 2013, the Environmental Quality Board, in consultation with local
units of government, shall create and maintain a library on local government ordinances
and local government permits that have been approved for regulation of silica sand
projects for reference by local governments.
new text end

Sec. 104.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116D.04, is amended by adding a
subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 16. new text end

new text begin Groundwater; environmental assessment worksheets. new text end

new text begin When an
environmental assessment worksheet is required for a proposed action that has the
potential to require a groundwater appropriation permit from the commissioner of natural
resources, the board shall require that the environmental assessment worksheet include an
assessment of the water resources available for appropriation.
new text end

Sec. 105.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 168.1296, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

General requirements and procedures.

(a) The commissioner shall
issue critical habitat plates to an applicant who:

(1) is a registered owner of a passenger automobile as defined in section 168.002,
subdivision 24, or recreational vehicle as defined in section 168.002, subdivision 27;

(2) pays a fee of $10 to cover the costs of handling and manufacturing the plates;

(3) pays the registration tax required under section 168.013;

(4) pays the fees required under this chapter;

(5) contributes a minimum of deleted text begin $30 deleted text end new text begin $40 new text end annually to the Minnesota critical habitat
private sector matching account established in section 84.943; and

(6) complies with this chapter and rules governing registration of motor vehicles
and licensing of drivers.

(b) The critical habitat plate application must indicate that the annual contribution
specified under paragraph (a), clause (5), is a minimum contribution to receive the plate
and that the applicant may make an additional contribution to the account.

(c) Owners of recreational vehicles under paragraph (a), clause (1), are eligible
only for special critical habitat license plates for which the designs are selected under
subdivision 2, on or after January 1, 2006.

(d) Special critical habitat license plates, the designs for which are selected under
subdivision 2, on or after January 1, 2006, may be personalized according to section
168.12, subdivision 2a.

Sec. 106.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 473.846, is amended to read:

473.846 deleted text begin REPORTS deleted text end new text begin REPORT new text end TO LEGISLATURE.

The agency shall submit to the senate and house of representatives committees
having jurisdiction over environment and natural resources deleted text begin separate reports deleted text end new text begin a report
new text end describing the activities for which money for landfill abatement has been spent under
deleted text begin sections deleted text end new text begin section new text end 473.844 deleted text begin and 473.845 deleted text end . The report deleted text begin for section 473.844 expenditures deleted text end shall be
included in the report required by section 115A.411, and shall include recommendations
on the future management and use of the metropolitan landfill abatement account. deleted text begin By
December 31 of each year, the commissioner shall submit the report for section 473.845
on contingency action trust fund activities.
deleted text end

Sec. 107.

Laws 2012, chapter 249, section 11, is amended to read:

Sec. 11. COSTS OF SCHOOL TRUST LANDS DIRECTOR AND
LEGISLATIVE PERMANENT SCHOOL FUND COMMISSION.

(a) The costs of the school trust lands director, including the costs of hiring staff,
and the Legislative Permanent School Fund Commission for fiscal years 2014 and 2015
shall be from the deleted text begin state forest development account under Minnesota Statutes, section
16A.125, and from the deleted text end minerals management account under Minnesota Statutes, section
93.2236, as appropriated by the legislature.

(b) The school trust lands director and the Legislative Permanent School Fund
Commission shall submit to the 2014 legislature a proposal to fund the operational costs
of the Legislative Permanent School Fund Commission and school trust lands director
and staff with a cost certification method using revenues generated by the permanent
school fund lands.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective July 1, 2013.
new text end

Sec. 108. new text begin NORTH MISSISSIPPI REGIONAL PARK.
new text end

new text begin (a) The boundaries of the North Mississippi Regional Park are extended to include
the approximately 20.82 acres of land adjacent to the existing park known as Webber Park
and that part of Shingle Creek that flows through Webber Park and continues through
North Mississippi Regional Park into the Mississippi River.
new text end

new text begin (b) Funds appropriated for North Mississippi Regional Park may be expended to
provide for visitor amenities, including construction of a natural filtration swimming
pool and a building for park users.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day after the governing body of
the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and its chief clerical officer timely complete
their compliance with Minnesota Statutes, section 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
new text end

Sec. 109. new text begin WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS; BENEFICIAL USE.
new text end

new text begin The Pollution Control Agency shall apply the following criteria to wastewater
treatment system projects:
new text end

new text begin (1) 30 points shall be assigned if a project will result in an agency approved
beneficial use of treated wastewater to reduce or replace an existing or proposed use of
surface water or ground water, not including land discharge; and
new text end

new text begin (2) 30 points shall be assigned if a project will result in the beneficial use of treated
wastewater to reduce or replace an existing or proposed use of surface water or ground
water, not including land discharge.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective July 1, 2014.
new text end

Sec. 110. new text begin PERMIT CANCELLATION.
new text end

new text begin Upon written request submitted by a permit holder to the commissioner of natural
resources on or before June 1, 2015, the commissioner shall cancel any provision in a
timber sale permit sold prior to September 1, 2012, that requires the security payment for
or removal of all or part of the balsam fir when the permit contains at least 50 cords of
balsam fir. The remaining provisions of the permit remain in effect. The permit holder
may be required to fell or pile the balsam fir to meet management objectives.
new text end

Sec. 111. new text begin GROUNDWATER SUSTAINABILITY RECOMMENDATIONS.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner of natural resources shall develop recommendations on
additional tools needed to fully implement the groundwater sustainability requirements
of Minnesota Statutes, section 103G.287, subdivisions 3 and 5. The recommendations
shall be submitted to the chairs of the environment and natural resources policy and
finance committees by January 15, 2014, and shall include draft legislative language to
implement the recommendations.
new text end

Sec. 112. new text begin RULEMAKING; POSSESSION AND TRANSPORTATION OF
WILDLIFE.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner of natural resources may use the good cause exemption under
Minnesota Statutes, section 14.388, subdivision 1, clause (3), to adopt rules to conform
with the changes to Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 97A.401, subdivision 3 contained in
this article, and Minnesota Statutes, section 14.386, does not apply except as provided
under Minnesota Statutes, section 14.388.
new text end

Sec. 113. new text begin RULEMAKING; DISPLAY OF PADDLE BOARD LICENSE
NUMBERS.
new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of natural resources shall amend Minnesota Rules, parts
6110.0200, 6110.0300, and 6110.0400, to exempt paddle boards from the requirement to
display license certificates and license numbers, in the same manner as other nonmotorized
watercraft such as canoes and kayaks.
new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner may use the good cause exemption under Minnesota Statutes,
section 14.388, subdivision 1, clause (3), to adopt rules under this section, and Minnesota
Statutes, section 14.386, does not apply except as provided under Minnesota Statutes,
section 14.388.
new text end

Sec. 114. new text begin RULEMAKING; INDUSTRIAL MINERALS AND NONFERROUS
MINERAL LEASES.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner of natural resources may use the good cause exemption under
Minnesota Statutes, section 14.388, subdivision 1, clause (3), to amend Minnesota Rules,
parts 6125.0100 to 6125.0700 and 6125.8000 to 6125.8700, to conform with the changes
to Minnesota Statutes, section 93.25, subdivision 2 contained in this article. Minnesota
Statutes, section 14.386, does not apply except as provided under Minnesota Statutes,
section 14.388.
new text end

Sec. 115. new text begin RULEMAKING; PERMIT TO MINE.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner of natural resources may use the good cause exemption under
Minnesota Statutes, section 14.388, subdivision 1, clause (3), to amend Minnesota Rules,
chapter 6130, to conform with the changes to Minnesota Statutes, section 93.46 contained
in this article. Minnesota Statutes, section 14.386, does not apply except as provided
under Minnesota Statutes, section 14.388.
new text end

Sec. 116. new text begin RULEMAKING; SILICA SAND.
new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency shall adopt rules pertaining
to the control of particulate emissions from silica sand mines. The commissioner shall
consider and incorporate, as appropriate to the conditions of this state, Wisconsin
Administrative Code NR 415, in effect as of January 1, 2012, pertaining to industrial
sand mines.
new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner of natural resources shall adopt rules pertaining to the
reclamation of silica sand mines. The commissioner shall consider and incorporate, as
appropriate to the conditions of this state, Wisconsin Administrative Code NR 135, in
effect as of January 1, 2012, pertaining to reclamation of industrial sand mines.
new text end

new text begin (c) By January 1, 2014, the Department of Health shall adopt an air quality health
advisory for silica sand.
new text end

Sec. 117. new text begin RULEMAKING; FUGITIVE EMISSIONS.
new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency shall amend Minnesota
Rules, part 7005.0100, subpart 35a, to read:
new text end

new text begin ""Potential emissions" or "potential to emit" means the maximum capacity while
operating at the maximum hours of operation of an emissions unit, emission facility, or
stationary source to emit a pollutant under its physical and operational design. Any physical
or operational limitation on the capacity of the stationary source to emit a pollutant,
including air pollution control equipment and restriction on hours of operation or on the
type or amount of material combusted, stored, or processed, must be treated as part of its
design if the limitation or the effect it would have on emissions is federally enforceable.
new text end

new text begin Secondary emissions must not be counted in determining the potential to emit of
an emissions unit, emission facility, or stationary source. Fugitive emissions shall not be
counted when determining potential to emit, unless required under Minnesota Rules, part
7007.0200, subpart 2, item B, or applicable federal regulation."
new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner may use the good cause exemption under Minnesota Statutes,
section 14.388, subdivision 1, clause (3), to adopt rules under this section, and Minnesota
Statutes, section 14.386, does not apply, except as provided under Minnesota Statutes,
section 14.388.
new text end

Sec. 118. new text begin REPEALER.
new text end

new text begin Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 90.163; 90.173; 90.41, subdivision 2; and
103G.265, subdivision 2a, new text end new text begin and new text end new text begin Minnesota Rules, parts 7021.0010, subparts 1, 2, 4, and
5; 7021.0020; 7021.0030; 7021.0040; 7021.0050, subpart 5; 9210.0300; 9210.0310;
9210.0320; 9210.0330; 9210.0340; 9210.0350; 9210.0360; 9210.0370; 9210.0380; and
9220.0530, subpart 6, new text end new text begin are repealed.
new text end

ARTICLE 5

SANITARY DISTRICTS

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 275.066, is amended to read:

275.066 SPECIAL TAXING DISTRICTS; DEFINITION.

For the purposes of property taxation and property tax state aids, the term "special
taxing districts" includes the following entities:

(1) watershed districts under chapter 103D;

(2) sanitary districts under sections deleted text begin 115.18 to 115.37 deleted text end new text begin 442A.01 to 442A.29 new text end ;

(3) regional sanitary sewer districts under sections 115.61 to 115.67;

(4) regional public library districts under section 134.201;

(5) park districts under chapter 398;

(6) regional railroad authorities under chapter 398A;

(7) hospital districts under sections 447.31 to 447.38;

(8) St. Cloud Metropolitan Transit Commission under sections 458A.01 to 458A.15;

(9) Duluth Transit Authority under sections 458A.21 to 458A.37;

(10) regional development commissions under sections 462.381 to 462.398;

(11) housing and redevelopment authorities under sections 469.001 to 469.047;

(12) port authorities under sections 469.048 to 469.068;

(13) economic development authorities under sections 469.090 to 469.1081;

(14) Metropolitan Council under sections 473.123 to 473.549;

(15) Metropolitan Airports Commission under sections 473.601 to 473.680;

(16) Metropolitan Mosquito Control Commission under sections 473.701 to 473.716;

(17) Morrison County Rural Development Financing Authority under Laws 1982,
chapter 437, section 1;

(18) Croft Historical Park District under Laws 1984, chapter 502, article 13, section 6;

(19) East Lake County Medical Clinic District under Laws 1989, chapter 211,
sections 1 to 6;

(20) Floodwood Area Ambulance District under Laws 1993, chapter 375, article
5, section 39;

(21) Middle Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization under sections
103B.211 and 103B.241;

(22) emergency medical services special taxing districts under section 144F.01;

(23) a county levying under the authority of section 103B.241, 103B.245, or
103B.251;

(24) Southern St. Louis County Special Taxing District; Chris Jensen Nursing Home
under Laws 2003, First Special Session chapter 21, article 4, section 12;

(25) an airport authority created under section 360.0426; and

(26) any other political subdivision of the state of Minnesota, excluding counties,
school districts, cities, and towns, that has the power to adopt and certify a property tax
levy to the county auditor, as determined by the commissioner of revenue.

Sec. 2.

new text begin [442A.01] DEFINITIONS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Applicability. new text end

new text begin For the purposes of this chapter, the terms defined
in this section have the meanings given.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Chief administrative law judge. new text end

new text begin "Chief administrative law judge" means
the chief administrative law judge of the Office of Administrative Hearings or the delegate
of the chief administrative law judge under section 14.48.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin District. new text end

new text begin "District" means a sanitary district created under this chapter or
under Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 115.18 to 115.37.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Municipality. new text end

new text begin "Municipality" means a city, however organized.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Property owner. new text end

new text begin "Property owner" means the fee owner of land, or the
beneficial owner of land whose interest is primarily one of possession and enjoyment.
Property owner includes, but is not limited to, vendees under a contract for deed and
mortgagors. Any reference to a percentage of property owners means in number.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Related governing body. new text end

new text begin "Related governing body" means the governing
body of a related governmental subdivision and, in the case of an organized town, means
the town board.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Related governmental subdivision. new text end

new text begin "Related governmental subdivision"
means a municipality or organized town wherein there is a territorial unit of a district or, in
the case of an unorganized area, the county.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Territorial unit. new text end

new text begin "Territorial unit" means all that part of a district situated
within a single municipality, within a single organized town outside of a municipality, or,
in the case of an unorganized area, within a single county.
new text end

Sec. 3.

new text begin [442A.015] APPLICABILITY.
new text end

new text begin All new sanitary district formations proposed and all sanitary districts previously
formed under Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 115.18 to 115.37, must comply with this
chapter, including annexations to, detachments from, and resolutions of sanitary districts
previously formed under Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 115.18 to 115.37.
new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin [442A.02] SANITARY DISTRICTS; PROCEDURES AND AUTHORITY.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Duty of chief administrative law judge. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative
law judge shall conduct proceedings, make determinations, and issue orders for the
creation of a sanitary district formed under this chapter or the annexation, detachment,
or dissolution of a sanitary district previously formed under Minnesota Statutes 2012,
sections 115.18 to 115.37.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Consolidation of proceedings. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative law judge may
order the consolidation of separate proceedings in the interest of economy and expedience.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Contracts, consultants. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative law judge may contract
with regional, state, county, or local planning commissions and hire expert consultants to
provide specialized information and assistance.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Powers of conductor of proceedings. new text end

new text begin Any person conducting a
proceeding under this chapter may administer oaths and affirmations; receive testimony
of witnesses, and the production of papers, books, and documents; examine witnesses;
and receive and report evidence. Upon the written request of a presiding administrative
law judge or a party, the chief administrative law judge may issue a subpoena for the
attendance of a witness or the production of books, papers, records, or other documents
material to any proceeding under this chapter. The subpoena is enforceable through the
district court in the district in which the subpoena is issued.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Rulemaking authority. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative law judge may adopt
rules that are reasonably necessary to carry out the duties and powers imposed upon the
chief administrative law judge under this chapter. The chief administrative law judge may
initially adopt rules according to section 14.386. Notwithstanding section 16A.1283, the
chief administrative law judge may adopt rules establishing fees.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Schedule of filing fees. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative law judge may prescribe
by rule a schedule of filing fees for any petitions filed under this chapter.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Request for hearing transcripts; costs. new text end

new text begin Any party may request the chief
administrative law judge to cause a transcript of the hearing to be made. Any party
requesting a copy of the transcript is responsible for its costs.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Compelled meetings; report. new text end

new text begin (a) In any proceeding under this chapter,
the chief administrative law judge or conductor of the proceeding may at any time in the
process require representatives from any petitioner, property owner, or involved city, town,
county, political subdivision, or other governmental entity to meet together to discuss
resolution of issues raised by the petition or order that confers jurisdiction on the chief
administrative law judge and other issues of mutual concern. The chief administrative
law judge or conductor of the proceeding may determine which entities are required
to participate in these discussions. The chief administrative law judge or conductor of
the proceeding may require that the parties meet at least three times during a 60-day
period. The parties shall designate a person to report to the chief administrative law
judge or conductor of the proceeding on the results of the meetings immediately after the
last meeting. The parties may be granted additional time at the discretion of the chief
administrative law judge or conductor of the proceedings.
new text end

new text begin (b) Any proposed resolution or settlement of contested issues that results in a
sanitary district formation, annexation, detachment, or dissolution; places conditions on
any future sanitary district formation, annexation, detachment, or dissolution; or results in
the withdrawal of an objection to a pending proceeding or the withdrawal of a pending
proceeding must be filed with the chief administrative law judge and is subject to the
applicable procedures and statutory criteria of this chapter.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Permanent official record. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative law judge shall
provide information about sanitary district creations, annexations, detachments, and
dissolutions to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency is responsible for maintaining the official record, including all documentation
related to the processes.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Shared program costs and fee revenue. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative
law judge and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency shall agree on an amount to be
transferred from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to the chief administrative law
judge to pay for administration of this chapter, including publication and notification costs.
Sanitary district fees collected by the chief administrative law judge shall be deposited in
the environmental fund.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 5 is effective the day following final enactment.
new text end

Sec. 5.

new text begin [442A.03] FILING OF MAPS IN SANITARY DISTRICT PROCEEDINGS.
new text end

new text begin Any party initiating a sanitary district proceeding that includes platted land shall file
with the chief administrative law judge maps which are necessary to support and identify
the land description. The maps shall include copies of plats.
new text end

Sec. 6.

new text begin [442A.04] SANITARY DISTRICT CREATION.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Sanitary district creation. new text end

new text begin (a) A sanitary district may be created
under this chapter for any territory embracing an area or a group of two or more adjacent
areas, whether contiguous or separate, but not situated entirely within the limits of a
single municipality. The proposed sanitary district must promote the public health and
welfare by providing an adequate and efficient system and means of collecting, conveying,
pumping, treating, and disposing of domestic sewage and garbage and industrial wastes
within the district. When the chief administrative law judge or the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency finds that there is need throughout the territory for the accomplishment
of these purposes; that these purposes can be effectively accomplished on an equitable
basis by a district if created; and that the creation and maintenance of a district will be
administratively feasible and in furtherance of the public health, safety, and welfare, the
chief administrative law judge shall make an order creating the sanitary district. A sanitary
district is administratively feasible under this section if the district has the financial and
managerial resources needed to deliver adequate and efficient sanitary sewer services
within the proposed district.
new text end

new text begin (b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), no district shall be created within 25 miles of the
boundary of any city of the first class without the approval of the governing body thereof
and the approval of the governing body of each and every municipality in the proposed
district by resolution filed with the chief administrative law judge.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the chief administrative law judge and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
disagree on the need to create a sanitary district, they must determine whether not allowing
the sanitary district formation will have a detrimental effect on the environment. If it is
determined that the sanitary district formation will prevent environmental harm, the sanitary
district creation or connection to an existing wastewater treatment system must occur.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Proceeding to create sanitary district. new text end

new text begin (a) A proceeding for the creation
of a district may be initiated by a petition to the chief administrative law judge containing
the following:
new text end

new text begin (1) a request for creation of the proposed district;
new text end

new text begin (2) the name proposed for the district, to include the words "sanitary district";
new text end

new text begin (3) a legal description of the territory of the proposed district, including justification
for inclusion or exclusion for all parcels;
new text end

new text begin (4) addresses of every property owner within the proposed district boundaries as
provided by the county auditor, with certification from the county auditor; two sets of
address labels for said owners; and a list of e-mail addresses for said owners, if available;
new text end

new text begin (5) a statement showing the existence in the territory of the conditions requisite for
creation of a district as prescribed in subdivision 1;
new text end

new text begin (6) a statement of the territorial units represented by and the qualifications of the
respective signers; and
new text end

new text begin (7) the post office address of each signer, given under the signer's signature.
new text end

new text begin A petition may consist of separate writings of like effect, each signed by one or more
qualified persons, and all such writings, when filed, shall be considered together as a
single petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) Petitioners must conduct and pay for a public meeting to inform citizens of the
proposed creation of the district. At the meeting, information must be provided, including
a description of the district's proposed structure, bylaws, territory, ordinances, budget, and
charges and a description of the territory of the proposed district, including justification
for inclusion or exclusion for all parcels. Notice of the meeting must be published for two
successive weeks in a qualified newspaper, as defined under chapter 331A, published
within the territory of the proposed district or, if there is no qualified newspaper published
within the territory, in a qualified newspaper of general circulation in the territory, and
must be posted for two weeks in each territorial unit of the proposed district and on the
Web site of the proposed district, if one exists. Notice of the meeting must be mailed or
e-mailed at least three weeks prior to the meeting to all property tax billing addresses for
all parcels included in the proposed district. The following must be submitted to the chief
administrative law judge with the petition:
new text end

new text begin (1) a record of the meeting, including copies of all information provided at the
meeting;
new text end

new text begin (2) a copy of the mailing list provided by the county auditor and used to notify
property owners of the meeting;
new text end

new text begin (3) a copy of the e-mail list used to notify property owners of the meeting;
new text end

new text begin (4) the printer's affidavit of publication of public meeting notice;
new text end

new text begin (5) an affidavit of posting the public meeting notice with information on dates and
locations of posting; and
new text end

new text begin (6) the minutes or other record of the public meeting documenting that the following
topics were discussed: printer's affidavit of publication of each resolution, with a copy
of the resolution from the newspaper attached; and the affidavit of resolution posting
on the town or proposed district Web site.
new text end

new text begin (c) Every petition must be signed as follows:
new text end

new text begin (1) for each municipality wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed district,
by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the municipal governing body;
new text end

new text begin (2) for each organized town wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed district,
by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the town board;
new text end

new text begin (3) for each county wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed district consisting
of an unorganized area, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the county
board or by at least 20 percent of the voters residing and owning land within the unit.
new text end

new text begin (d) Each resolution must be published in the official newspaper of the governing
body adopting it and becomes effective 40 days after publication, unless within said
period there shall be filed with the governing body a petition signed by qualified electors
of a territorial unit of the proposed district, equal in number to five percent of the number
of electors voting at the last preceding election of the governing body, requesting a
referendum on the resolution, in which case the resolution may not become effective until
approved by a majority of the qualified electors voting at a regular election or special
election that the governing body may call. The notice of an election and the ballot to be
used must contain the text of the resolution followed by the question: "Shall the above
resolution be approved?"
new text end

new text begin (e) If any signer is alleged to be a landowner in a territorial unit, a statement as to
the signer's landowner status as shown by the county auditor's tax assessment records,
certified by the auditor, shall be attached to or endorsed upon the petition.
new text end

new text begin (f) At any time before publication of the public notice required in subdivision 3,
additional signatures may be added to the petition or amendments of the petition may
be made to correct or remedy any error or defect in signature or otherwise except a
material error or defect in the description of the territory of the proposed district. If the
qualifications of any signer of a petition are challenged, the chief administrative law judge
shall determine the challenge forthwith on the allegations of the petition, the county
auditor's certificate of land ownership, and such other evidence as may be received.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Notice of intent to create sanitary district. new text end

new text begin (a) Upon receipt of a petition
and the record of the public meeting required under subdivision 2, the chief administrative
law judge shall publish a notice of intent to create the proposed sanitary district in the State
Register and mail or e-mail information of that publication to each property owner in the
affected territory at the owner's address as given by the county auditor. The information
must state the date that the notice will appear in the State Register and give the Web site
location for the State Register. The notice must:
new text end

new text begin (1) describe the petition for creation of the district;
new text end

new text begin (2) describe the territory affected by the petition;
new text end

new text begin (3) allow 30 days for submission of written comments on the petition;
new text end

new text begin (4) state that a person who objects to the petition may submit a written request for
hearing to the chief administrative law judge within 30 days of the publication of the
notice in the State Register; and
new text end

new text begin (5) state that if a timely request for hearing is not received, the chief administrative
law judge may make a decision on the petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) If 50 or more individual timely requests for hearing are received, the chief
administrative law judge must hold a hearing on the petition according to the contested
case provisions of chapter 14. The sanitary district proposers are responsible for paying all
costs involved in publicizing and holding a hearing on the petition.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Hearing time, place. new text end

new text begin If a hearing is required pursuant to subdivision 3, the
chief administrative law judge shall designate a time and place for a hearing according
to section 442A.13.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Relevant factors. new text end

new text begin (a) In arriving at a decision, the chief administrative law
judge shall consider the following factors:
new text end

new text begin (1) administrative feasibility under subdivision 1, paragraph (a);
new text end

new text begin (2) public health, safety, and welfare impacts;
new text end

new text begin (3) alternatives for managing the public health impacts;
new text end

new text begin (4) equities of the petition proposal;
new text end

new text begin (5) contours of the petition proposal; and
new text end

new text begin (6) public notification of and interaction on the petition proposal.
new text end

new text begin (b) Based on the factors in paragraph (a), the chief administrative law judge may
order the sanitary district creation on finding that:
new text end

new text begin (1) the proposed district is administratively feasible;
new text end

new text begin (2) the proposed district provides a long-term, equitable solution to pollution
problems affecting public health, safety, and welfare;
new text end

new text begin (3) property owners within the proposed district were provided notice of the
proposed district and opportunity to comment on the petition proposal; and
new text end

new text begin (4) the petition complied with the requirements of all applicable statutes and rules
pertaining to sanitary district creation.
new text end

new text begin (c) The chief administrative law judge may alter the boundaries of the proposed
sanitary district by increasing or decreasing the area to be included or may exclude
property that may be better served by another unit of government. The chief administrative
law judge may also alter the boundaries of the proposed district so as to follow visible,
clearly recognizable physical features for municipal boundaries.
new text end

new text begin (d) The chief administrative law judge may deny sanitary district creation if the area,
or a part thereof, would be better served by an alternative method.
new text end

new text begin (e) In all cases, the chief administrative law judge shall set forth the factors that are
the basis for the decision.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Findings; order. new text end

new text begin After the public notice period or the public hearing, if
required under subdivision 3, and based on the petition, any public comments received,
and, if a hearing was held, the hearing record, the chief administrative law judge shall
make findings of fact and conclusions determining whether the conditions requisite for the
creation of a district exist in the territory described in the petition. If the chief administrative
law judge finds that the conditions exist, the judge may make an order creating a district
for the territory described in that petition under the name proposed in the petition or such
other name, including the words "sanitary district," as the judge deems appropriate.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Denial of petition. new text end

new text begin If the chief administrative law judge, after conclusion
of the public notice period or holding a hearing, if required, determines that the creation of
a district in the territory described in the petition is not warranted, the judge shall make
an order denying the petition. The chief administrative law judge shall give notice of the
denial by mail or e-mail to each signer of the petition. No petition for the creation of a
district consisting of the same territory shall be entertained within a year after the date of
an order under this subdivision. Nothing in this subdivision precludes action on a petition
for the creation of a district embracing part of the territory with or without other territory.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Notice of order creating sanitary district. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative law
judge shall publish a notice in the State Register of the final order creating a sanitary
district, referring to the date of the order and describing the territory of the district, and
shall mail or e-mail information of the publication to each property owner in the affected
territory at the owner's address as given by the county auditor. The information must state
the date that the notice will appear in the State Register and give the Web site location
for the State Register. The notice must:
new text end

new text begin (1) describe the petition for creation of the district;
new text end

new text begin (2) describe the territory affected by the petition; and
new text end

new text begin (3) state that a certified copy of the order shall be delivered to the secretary of state
for filing ten days after public notice of the order in the State Register.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Filing. new text end

new text begin Ten days after public notice of the order in the State Register, the
chief administrative law judge shall deliver a certified copy of the order to the secretary
of state for filing. Thereupon, the creation of the district is deemed complete, and it
shall be conclusively presumed that all requirements of law relating thereto have been
complied with. The chief administrative law judge shall also transmit a certified copy of
the order for filing to the county auditor of each county and the clerk or recorder of each
municipality and organized town wherein any part of the territory of the district is situated
and to the secretary of the district board when elected.
new text end

Sec. 7.

new text begin [442A.05] SANITARY DISTRICT ANNEXATION.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Annexation. new text end

new text begin (a) A sanitary district annexation may occur under
this chapter for any area adjacent to an existing district upon a petition to the chief
administrative law judge stating the grounds therefor as provided in this section.
new text end

new text begin (b) The proposed annexation area must embrace an area or a group of two or more
adjacent areas, whether contiguous or separate, but not situated entirely within the limits
of a single municipality. The proposed annexation must promote public health and
welfare by providing an adequate and efficient system and means of collecting, conveying,
pumping, treating, and disposing of domestic sewage and garbage and industrial wastes
within the district. When the chief administrative law judge or the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency finds that there is need throughout the territory for the accomplishment of
these purposes, that these purposes can be effectively accomplished on an equitable basis
by annexation to a district, and that the creation and maintenance of such annexation will
be administratively feasible and in furtherance of the public health, safety, and welfare,
the chief administrative law judge shall make an order for sanitary district annexation.
A sanitary district is administratively feasible under this section if the district has the
financial and managerial resources needed to deliver adequate and efficient sanitary sewer
services within the proposed district.
new text end

new text begin (c) Notwithstanding paragraph (b), no annexation to a district shall be approved
within 25 miles of the boundary of any city of the first class without the approval
of the governing body thereof and the approval of the governing body of each and
every municipality in the proposed annexation area by resolution filed with the chief
administrative law judge.
new text end

new text begin (d) If the chief administrative law judge and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
disagree on the need for a sanitary district annexation, they must determine whether not
allowing the sanitary district annexation will have a detrimental effect on the environment.
If it is determined that the sanitary district annexation will prevent environmental harm,
the sanitary district annexation or connection to an existing wastewater treatment system
must occur.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Proceeding for annexation. new text end

new text begin (a) A proceeding for sanitary district
annexation may be initiated by a petition to the chief administrative law judge containing
the following:
new text end

new text begin (1) a request for proposed annexation to a sanitary district;
new text end

new text begin (2) a legal description of the territory of the proposed annexation, including
justification for inclusion or exclusion for all parcels;
new text end

new text begin (3) addresses of every property owner within the existing sanitary district and
proposed annexation area boundaries as provided by the county auditor, with certification
from the county auditor; two sets of address labels for said owners; and a list of e-mail
addresses for said owners, if available;
new text end

new text begin (4) a statement showing the existence in such territory of the conditions requisite
for annexation to a district as prescribed in subdivision 1;
new text end

new text begin (5) a statement of the territorial units represented by and qualifications of the
respective signers; and
new text end

new text begin (6) the post office address of each signer, given under the signer's signature.
new text end

new text begin A petition may consist of separate writings of like effect, each signed by one or more
qualified persons, and all such writings, when filed, shall be considered together as a
single petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) Petitioners must conduct and pay for a public meeting to inform citizens of the
proposed annexation to a sanitary district. At the meeting, information must be provided,
including a description of the existing sanitary district's structure, bylaws, territory,
ordinances, budget, and charges; a description of the existing sanitary district's territory;
and a description of the territory of the proposed annexation area, including justification
for inclusion or exclusion for all parcels for the annexation area. Notice of the meeting
must be published for two successive weeks in a qualified newspaper, as defined under
chapter 331A, published within the territories of the existing sanitary district and proposed
annexation area or, if there is no qualified newspaper published within those territories, in
a qualified newspaper of general circulation in the territories, and must be posted for two
weeks in each territorial unit of the existing sanitary district and proposed annexation area
and on the Web site of the existing sanitary district, if one exists. Notice of the meeting
must be mailed or e-mailed at least three weeks prior to the meeting to all property tax
billing addresses for all parcels included in the existing sanitary district and proposed
annexation area. The following must be submitted to the chief administrative law judge
with the petition:
new text end

new text begin (1) a record of the meeting, including copies of all information provided at the
meeting;
new text end

new text begin (2) a copy of the mailing list provided by the county auditor and used to notify
property owners of the meeting;
new text end

new text begin (3) a copy of the e-mail list used to notify property owners of the meeting;
new text end

new text begin (4) the printer's affidavit of publication of the public meeting notice;
new text end

new text begin (5) an affidavit of posting the public meeting notice with information on dates and
locations of posting; and
new text end

new text begin (6) the minutes or other record of the public meeting documenting that the following
topics were discussed: printer's affidavit of publication of each resolution, with copy
of resolution from newspaper attached; and affidavit of resolution posting on town or
existing sanitary district Web site.
new text end

new text begin (c) Every petition must be signed as follows:
new text end

new text begin (1) by an authorized officer of the existing sanitary district pursuant to a resolution
of the board;
new text end

new text begin (2) for each municipality wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed annexation
area, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the municipal governing body;
new text end

new text begin (3) for each organized town wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed
annexation area, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the town board; and
new text end

new text begin (4) for each county wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed annexation area
consisting of an unorganized area, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the
county board or by at least 20 percent of the voters residing and owning land within the unit.
new text end

new text begin (d) Each resolution must be published in the official newspaper of the governing
body adopting it and becomes effective 40 days after publication, unless within said
period there shall be filed with the governing body a petition signed by qualified electors
of a territorial unit of the proposed annexation area, equal in number to five percent of the
number of electors voting at the last preceding election of the governing body, requesting
a referendum on the resolution, in which case the resolution may not become effective
until approved by a majority of the qualified electors voting at a regular election or special
election that the governing body may call. The notice of an election and the ballot to be
used must contain the text of the resolution followed by the question: "Shall the above
resolution be approved?"
new text end

new text begin (e) If any signer is alleged to be a landowner in a territorial unit, a statement as to
the signer's landowner status as shown by the county auditor's tax assessment records,
certified by the auditor, shall be attached to or endorsed upon the petition.
new text end

new text begin (f) At any time before publication of the public notice required in subdivision 4,
additional signatures may be added to the petition or amendments of the petition may be
made to correct or remedy any error or defect in signature or otherwise except a material
error or defect in the description of the territory of the proposed annexation area. If the
qualifications of any signer of a petition are challenged, the chief administrative law judge
shall determine the challenge forthwith on the allegations of the petition, the county
auditor's certificate of land ownership, and such other evidence as may be received.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Joint petition. new text end

new text begin Different areas may be annexed to a district in a single
proceeding upon a joint petition therefor and upon compliance with the provisions of
subdivisions 1 and 2 with respect to the area affected so far as applicable.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Notice of intent for sanitary district annexation. new text end

new text begin (a) Upon receipt
of a petition and the record of public meeting required under subdivision 2, the chief
administrative law judge shall publish a notice of intent for sanitary district annexation
in the State Register and mail or e-mail information of the publication to each property
owner in the affected territory at the owner's address as given by the county auditor. The
information must state the date that the notice will appear in the State Register and give
the Web site location for the State Register. The notice must:
new text end

new text begin (1) describe the petition for sanitary district annexation;
new text end

new text begin (2) describe the territory affected by the petition;
new text end

new text begin (3) allow 30 days for submission of written comments on the petition;
new text end

new text begin (4) state that a person who objects to the petition may submit a written request for
hearing to the chief administrative law judge within 30 days of the publication of the
notice in the State Register; and
new text end

new text begin (5) state that if a timely request for hearing is not received, the chief administrative
law judge may make a decision on the petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) If 50 or more individual timely requests for hearing are received, the chief
administrative law judge must hold a hearing on the petition according to the contested case
provisions of chapter 14. The sanitary district or annexation area proposers are responsible
for paying all costs involved in publicizing and holding a hearing on the petition.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Hearing time, place. new text end

new text begin If a hearing is required under subdivision 4, the
chief administrative law judge shall designate a time and place for a hearing according
to section 442A.13.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Relevant factors. new text end

new text begin (a) In arriving at a decision, the chief administrative law
judge shall consider the following factors:
new text end

new text begin (1) administrative feasibility under subdivision 1, paragraph (b);
new text end

new text begin (2) public health, safety, and welfare impacts;
new text end

new text begin (3) alternatives for managing the public health impacts;
new text end

new text begin (4) equities of the petition proposal;
new text end

new text begin (5) contours of the petition proposal; and
new text end

new text begin (6) public notification of and interaction on the petition proposal.
new text end

new text begin (b) Based upon these factors, the chief administrative law judge may order the
annexation to the sanitary district on finding that:
new text end

new text begin (1) the sanitary district is knowledgeable and experienced in delivering sanitary sewer
services to ratepayers and has provided quality service in a fair and cost-effective manner;
new text end

new text begin (2) the proposed annexation provides a long-term, equitable solution to pollution
problems affecting public health, safety, and welfare;
new text end

new text begin (3) property owners within the existing sanitary district and proposed annexation
area were provided notice of the proposed district and opportunity to comment on the
petition proposal; and
new text end

new text begin (4) the petition complied with the requirements of all applicable statutes and rules
pertaining to sanitary district annexation.
new text end

new text begin (c) The chief administrative law judge may alter the boundaries of the proposed
annexation area by increasing or decreasing the area to be included or may exclude
property that may be better served by another unit of government. The chief administrative
law judge may also alter the boundaries of the proposed annexation area so as to follow
visible, clearly recognizable physical features for municipal boundaries.
new text end

new text begin (d) The chief administrative law judge may deny sanitary district annexation if the
area, or a part thereof, would be better served by an alternative method.
new text end

new text begin (e) In all cases, the chief administrative law judge shall set forth the factors that are
the basis for the decision.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Findings; order. new text end

new text begin (a) After the public notice period or the public hearing, if
required under subdivision 4, and based on the petition, any public comments received,
and, if a hearing was held, the hearing record, the chief administrative law judge shall
make findings of fact and conclusions determining whether the conditions requisite for
the sanitary district annexation exist in the territory described in the petition. If the chief
administrative law judge finds that conditions exist, the judge may make an order for
sanitary district annexation for the territory described in the petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) All taxable property within the annexed area shall be subject to taxation for
any existing bonded indebtedness or other indebtedness of the district for the cost of
acquisition, construction, or improvement of any disposal system or other works or
facilities beneficial to the annexed area to such extent as the chief administrative law judge
may determine to be just and equitable, to be specified in the order for annexation. The
proper officers shall levy further taxes on such property accordingly.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Denial of petition. new text end

new text begin If the chief administrative law judge, after conclusion
of the public notice period or holding a hearing, if required, determines that the sanitary
district annexation in the territory described in the petition is not warranted, the judge shall
make an order denying the petition. The chief administrative law judge shall give notice
of the denial by mail or e-mail to each signer of the petition. No petition for a sanitary
district annexation consisting of the same territory shall be entertained within a year
after the date of an order under this subdivision. Nothing in this subdivision precludes
action on a petition for a sanitary district annexation embracing part of the territory with
or without other territory.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Notice of order for sanitary district annexation. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative
law judge shall publish in the State Register a notice of the final order for sanitary district
annexation, referring to the date of the order and describing the territory of the annexation
area, and shall mail or e-mail information of the publication to each property owner in the
affected territory at the owner's address as given by the county auditor. The information
must state the date that the notice will appear in the State Register and give the Web site
location for the State Register. The notice must:
new text end

new text begin (1) describe the petition for annexation to the district;
new text end

new text begin (2) describe the territory affected by the petition; and
new text end

new text begin (3) state that a certified copy of the order shall be delivered to the secretary of state
for filing ten days after public notice of the order in the State Register.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Filing. new text end

new text begin Ten days after public notice of the order in the State Register, the
chief administrative law judge shall deliver a certified copy of the order to the secretary
of state for filing. Thereupon, the sanitary district annexation is deemed complete, and it
shall be conclusively presumed that all requirements of law relating thereto have been
complied with. The chief administrative law judge shall also transmit a certified copy of
the order for filing to the county auditor of each county and the clerk or recorder of each
municipality and organized town wherein any part of the territory of the district, including
the newly annexed area, is situated and to the secretary of the district board.
new text end

Sec. 8.

new text begin [442A.06] SANITARY DISTRICT DETACHMENT.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Detachment. new text end

new text begin (a) A sanitary district detachment may occur under this
chapter for any area within an existing district upon a petition to the chief administrative
law judge stating the grounds therefor as provided in this section.
new text end

new text begin (b) The proposed detachment must not have any negative environmental impact
on the proposed detachment area.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the chief administrative law judge and the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency disagree on the need for a sanitary district detachment, they must determine
whether not allowing the sanitary district detachment will have a detrimental effect on
the environment. If it is determined that the sanitary district detachment will cause
environmental harm, the sanitary district detachment is not allowed unless the detached
area is immediately connected to an existing wastewater treatment system.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Proceeding for detachment. new text end

new text begin (a) A proceeding for sanitary district
detachment may be initiated by a petition to the chief administrative law judge containing
the following:
new text end

new text begin (1) a request for proposed detachment from a sanitary district;
new text end

new text begin (2) a statement that the requisite conditions for inclusion in a district no longer exist
in the proposed detachment area;
new text end

new text begin (3) a legal description of the territory of the proposed detachment, including
justification for inclusion or exclusion for all parcels;
new text end

new text begin (4) addresses of every property owner within the sanitary district and proposed
detachment area boundaries as provided by the county auditor, with certification from the
county auditor; two sets of address labels for said owners; and a list of e-mail addresses
for said owners, if available;
new text end

new text begin (5) a statement of the territorial units represented by and qualifications of the
respective signers; and
new text end

new text begin (6) the post office address of each signer, given under the signer's signature.
new text end

new text begin A petition may consist of separate writings of like effect, each signed by one or more
qualified persons, and all such writings, when filed, shall be considered together as a
single petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) Petitioners must conduct and pay for a public meeting to inform citizens of
the proposed detachment from a sanitary district. At the meeting, information must be
provided, including a description of the existing district's territory and a description of the
territory of the proposed detachment area, including justification for inclusion or exclusion
for all parcels for the detachment area. Notice of the meeting must be published for two
successive weeks in a qualified newspaper, as defined under chapter 331A, published
within the territories of the existing sanitary district and proposed detachment area or, if
there is no qualified newspaper published within those territories, in a qualified newspaper
of general circulation in the territories, and must be posted for two weeks in each territorial
unit of the existing sanitary district and proposed detachment area and on the Web site
of the existing sanitary district, if one exists. Notice of the meeting must be mailed or
e-mailed at least three weeks prior to the meeting to all property tax billing addresses for
all parcels included in the sanitary district. The following must be submitted to the chief
administrative law judge with the petition:
new text end

new text begin (1) a record of the meeting, including copies of all information provided at the
meeting;
new text end

new text begin (2) a copy of the mailing list provided by the county auditor and used to notify
property owners of the meeting;
new text end

new text begin (3) a copy of the e-mail list used to notify property owners of the meeting;
new text end

new text begin (4) the printer's affidavit of publication of public meeting notice;
new text end

new text begin (5) an affidavit of posting the public meeting notice with information on dates and
locations of posting; and
new text end

new text begin (6) minutes or other record of the public meeting documenting that the following
topics were discussed: printer's affidavit of publication of each resolution, with copy
of resolution from newspaper attached; and affidavit of resolution posting on town or
existing sanitary district Web site.
new text end

new text begin (c) Every petition must be signed as follows:
new text end

new text begin (1) by an authorized officer of the existing sanitary district pursuant to a resolution
of the board;
new text end

new text begin (2) for each municipality wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed detachment
area, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the municipal governing body;
new text end

new text begin (3) for each organized town wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed
detachment area, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the town board; and
new text end

new text begin (4) for each county wherein there is a territorial unit of the proposed detachment area
consisting of an unorganized area, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the
county board or by at least 20 percent of the voters residing and owning land within the unit.
new text end

new text begin (d) Each resolution must be published in the official newspaper of the governing
body adopting it and becomes effective 40 days after publication, unless within said period
there shall be filed with the governing body a petition signed by qualified electors of a
territorial unit of the proposed detachment area, equal in number to five percent of the
number of electors voting at the last preceding election of the governing body, requesting
a referendum on the resolution, in which case the resolution may not become effective
until approved by a majority of the qualified electors voting at a regular election or special
election that the governing body may call. The notice of an election and the ballot to be
used must contain the text of the resolution followed by the question: "Shall the above
resolution be approved?"
new text end

new text begin (e) If any signer is alleged to be a landowner in a territorial unit, a statement as to
the signer's landowner status as shown by the county auditor's tax assessment records,
certified by the auditor, shall be attached to or endorsed upon the petition.
new text end

new text begin (f) At any time before publication of the public notice required in subdivision 4,
additional signatures may be added to the petition or amendments of the petition may be
made to correct or remedy any error or defect in signature or otherwise except a material
error or defect in the description of the territory of the proposed detachment area. If the
qualifications of any signer of a petition are challenged, the chief administrative law judge
shall determine the challenge forthwith on the allegations of the petition, the county
auditor's certificate of land ownership, and such other evidence as may be received.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Joint petition. new text end

new text begin Different areas may be detached from a district in a single
proceeding upon a joint petition therefor and upon compliance with the provisions of
subdivisions 1 and 2 with respect to the area affected so far as applicable.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Notice of intent for sanitary district detachment. new text end

new text begin (a) Upon receipt
of a petition and record of public meeting required under subdivision 2, the chief
administrative law judge shall publish a notice of intent for sanitary district detachment
in the State Register and mail or e-mail information of the publication to each property
owner in the affected territory at the owner's address as given by the county auditor. The
information must state the date that the notice will appear in the State Register and give
the Web site location for the State Register. The notice must:
new text end

new text begin (1) describe the petition for sanitary district detachment;
new text end

new text begin (2) describe the territory affected by the petition;
new text end

new text begin (3) allow 30 days for submission of written comments on the petition;
new text end

new text begin (4) state that a person who objects to the petition may submit a written request for
hearing to the chief administrative law judge within 30 days of the publication of the
notice in the State Register; and
new text end

new text begin (5) state that if a timely request for hearing is not received, the chief administrative
law judge may make a decision on the petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) If 50 or more individual timely requests for hearing are received, the chief
administrative law judge must hold a hearing on the petition according to the contested case
provisions of chapter 14. The sanitary district or detachment area proposers are responsible
for paying all costs involved in publicizing and holding a hearing on the petition.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Hearing time, place. new text end

new text begin If a hearing is required under subdivision 4, the
chief administrative law judge shall designate a time and place for a hearing according
to section 442A.13.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Relevant factors. new text end

new text begin (a) In arriving at a decision, the chief administrative law
judge shall consider the following factors:
new text end

new text begin (1) public health, safety, and welfare impacts for the proposed detachment area;
new text end

new text begin (2) alternatives for managing the public health impacts for the proposed detachment
area;
new text end

new text begin (3) equities of the petition proposal;
new text end

new text begin (4) contours of the petition proposal; and
new text end

new text begin (5) public notification of and interaction on the petition proposal.
new text end

new text begin (b) Based upon these factors, the chief administrative law judge may order the
detachment from the sanitary district on finding that:
new text end

new text begin (1) the proposed detachment area has adequate alternatives for managing public
health impacts due to the detachment;
new text end

new text begin (2) the proposed detachment area is not necessary for the district to provide a
long-term, equitable solution to pollution problems affecting public health, safety, and
welfare;
new text end

new text begin (3) property owners within the existing sanitary district and proposed detachment
area were provided notice of the proposed detachment and opportunity to comment on
the petition proposal; and
new text end

new text begin (4) the petition complied with the requirements of all applicable statutes and rules
pertaining to sanitary district detachment.
new text end

new text begin (c) The chief administrative law judge may alter the boundaries of the proposed
detachment area by increasing or decreasing the area to be included or may exclude
property that may be better served by another unit of government. The chief administrative
law judge may also alter the boundaries of the proposed detachment area so as to follow
visible, clearly recognizable physical features for municipal boundaries.
new text end

new text begin (d) The chief administrative law judge may deny sanitary district detachment if the
area, or a part thereof, would be better served by an alternative method.
new text end

new text begin (e) In all cases, the chief administrative law judge shall set forth the factors that are
the basis for the decision.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Findings; order. new text end

new text begin (a) After the public notice period or the public hearing, if
required under subdivision 4, and based on the petition, any public comments received,
and, if a hearing was held, the hearing record, the chief administrative law judge shall
make findings of fact and conclusions determining whether the conditions requisite for
the sanitary district detachment exist in the territory described in the petition. If the chief
administrative law judge finds that conditions exist, the judge may make an order for
sanitary district detachment for the territory described in the petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) All taxable property within the detached area shall remain subject to taxation
for any existing bonded indebtedness of the district to such extent as it would have been
subject thereto if not detached and shall also remain subject to taxation for any other
existing indebtedness of the district incurred for any purpose beneficial to such area to
such extent as the chief administrative law judge may determine to be just and equitable,
to be specified in the order for detachment. The proper officers shall levy further taxes on
such property accordingly.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Denial of petition. new text end

new text begin If the chief administrative law judge, after conclusion
of the public notice period or holding a hearing, if required, determines that the sanitary
district detachment in the territory described in the petition is not warranted, the judge
shall make an order denying the petition. The chief administrative law judge shall give
notice of the denial by mail or e-mail to each signer of the petition. No petition for a
detachment from a district consisting of the same territory shall be entertained within a
year after the date of an order under this subdivision. Nothing in this subdivision precludes
action on a petition for a detachment from a district embracing part of the territory with
or without other territory.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Notice of order for sanitary district detachment. new text end

new text begin The chief
administrative law judge shall publish in the State Register a notice of the final order
for sanitary district detachment, referring to the date of the order and describing the
territory of the detached area and shall mail or e-mail information of the publication
to each property owner in the affected territory at the owner's address as given by the
county auditor. The information must state the date that the notice will appear in the State
Register and give the Web site location for the State Register. The notice must:
new text end

new text begin (1) describe the petition for detachment from the district;
new text end

new text begin (2) describe the territory affected by the petition; and
new text end

new text begin (3) state that a certified copy of the order shall be delivered to the secretary of state
for filing ten days after public notice of the order in the State Register.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Filing. new text end

new text begin Ten days after public notice of the order in the State Register, the
chief administrative law judge shall deliver a certified copy of the order to the secretary of
state for filing. Thereupon, the sanitary district detachment is deemed complete, and it
shall be conclusively presumed that all requirements of law relating thereto have been
complied with. The chief administrative law judge shall also transmit a certified copy of
the order for filing to the county auditor of each county and the clerk or recorder of each
municipality and organized town wherein any part of the territory of the district, including
the newly detached area, is situated and to the secretary of the district board.
new text end

Sec. 9.

new text begin [442A.07] SANITARY DISTRICT DISSOLUTION.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Dissolution. new text end

new text begin (a) An existing sanitary district may be dissolved under
this chapter upon a petition to the chief administrative law judge stating the grounds
therefor as provided in this section.
new text end

new text begin (b) The proposed dissolution must not have any negative environmental impact on
the existing sanitary district area.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the chief administrative law judge and the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency disagree on the need to dissolve a sanitary district, they must determine whether
not dissolving the sanitary district will have a detrimental effect on the environment. If
it is determined that the sanitary district dissolution will cause environmental harm, the
sanitary district dissolution is not allowed unless the existing sanitary district area is
immediately connected to an existing wastewater treatment system.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Proceeding for dissolution. new text end

new text begin (a) A proceeding for sanitary district
dissolution may be initiated by a petition to the chief administrative law judge containing
the following:
new text end

new text begin (1) a request for proposed sanitary district dissolution;
new text end

new text begin (2) a statement that the requisite conditions for a sanitary district no longer exist
in the district area;
new text end

new text begin (3) a proposal for distribution of the remaining funds of the district, if any, among
the related governmental subdivisions;
new text end

new text begin (4) a legal description of the territory of the proposed dissolution;
new text end

new text begin (5) addresses of every property owner within the sanitary district boundaries as
provided by the county auditor, with certification from the county auditor; two sets of
address labels for said owners; and a list of e-mail addresses for said owners, if available;
new text end

new text begin (6) a statement of the territorial units represented by and the qualifications of the
respective signers; and
new text end

new text begin (7) the post office address of each signer, given under the signer's signature.
new text end

new text begin A petition may consist of separate writings of like effect, each signed by one or more
qualified persons, and all such writings, when filed, shall be considered together as a
single petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) Petitioners must conduct and pay for a public meeting to inform citizens of the
proposed dissolution of a sanitary district. At the meeting, information must be provided,
including a description of the existing district's territory. Notice of the meeting must be
published for two successive weeks in a qualified newspaper, as defined under chapter
331A, published within the territory of the sanitary district or, if there is no qualified
newspaper published within that territory, in a qualified newspaper of general circulation
in the territory and must be posted for two weeks in each territorial unit of the sanitary
district and on the Web site of the existing sanitary district, if one exists. Notice of the
meeting must be mailed or e-mailed at least three weeks prior to the meeting to all property
tax billing addresses for all parcels included in the sanitary district. The following must be
submitted to the chief administrative law judge with the petition:
new text end

new text begin (1) a record of the meeting, including copies of all information provided at the
meeting;
new text end

new text begin (2) a copy of the mailing list provided by the county auditor and used to notify
property owners of the meeting;
new text end

new text begin (3) a copy of the e-mail list used to notify property owners of the meeting;
new text end

new text begin (4) the printer's affidavit of publication of public meeting notice;
new text end

new text begin (5) an affidavit of posting the public meeting notice with information on dates and
locations of posting; and
new text end

new text begin (6) minutes or other record of the public meeting documenting that the following
topics were discussed: printer's affidavit of publication of each resolution, with copy
of resolution from newspaper attached; and affidavit of resolution posting on town or
existing sanitary district Web site.
new text end

new text begin (c) Every petition must be signed as follows:
new text end

new text begin (1) by an authorized officer of the existing sanitary district pursuant to a resolution
of the board;
new text end

new text begin (2) for each municipality wherein there is a territorial unit of the existing sanitary
district, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the municipal governing body;
new text end

new text begin (3) for each organized town wherein there is a territorial unit of the existing sanitary
district, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the town board; and
new text end

new text begin (4) for each county wherein there is a territorial unit of the existing sanitary district
consisting of an unorganized area, by an authorized officer pursuant to a resolution of the
county board or by at least 20 percent of the voters residing and owning land within the unit.
new text end

new text begin (d) Each resolution must be published in the official newspaper of the governing body
adopting it and becomes effective 40 days after publication, unless within said period there
shall be filed with the governing body a petition signed by qualified electors of a territorial
unit of the district, equal in number to five percent of the number of electors voting at the
last preceding election of the governing body, requesting a referendum on the resolution,
in which case the resolution may not become effective until approved by a majority of the
qualified electors voting at a regular election or special election that the governing body
may call. The notice of an election and the ballot to be used must contain the text of the
resolution followed by the question: "Shall the above resolution be approved?"
new text end

new text begin (e) If any signer is alleged to be a landowner in a territorial unit, a statement as to
the signer's landowner status as shown by the county auditor's tax assessment records,
certified by the auditor, shall be attached to or endorsed upon the petition.
new text end

new text begin (f) At any time before publication of the public notice required in subdivision 3,
additional signatures may be added to the petition or amendments of the petition may be
made to correct or remedy any error or defect in signature or otherwise except a material
error or defect in the description of the territory of the proposed dissolution area. If the
qualifications of any signer of a petition are challenged, the chief administrative law judge
shall determine the challenge forthwith on the allegations of the petition, the county
auditor's certificate of land ownership, and such other evidence as may be received.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Notice of intent for sanitary district dissolution. new text end

new text begin (a) Upon receipt
of a petition and record of the public meeting required under subdivision 2, the chief
administrative law judge shall publish a notice of intent of sanitary district dissolution
in the State Register and mail or e-mail information of the publication to each property
owner in the affected territory at the owner's address as given by the county auditor. The
information must state the date that the notice will appear in the State Register and give
the Web site location for the State Register. The notice must:
new text end

new text begin (1) describe the petition for sanitary district dissolution;
new text end

new text begin (2) describe the territory affected by the petition;
new text end

new text begin (3) allow 30 days for submission of written comments on the petition;
new text end

new text begin (4) state that a person who objects to the petition may submit a written request for
hearing to the chief administrative law judge within 30 days of the publication of the
notice in the State Register; and
new text end

new text begin (5) state that if a timely request for hearing is not received, the chief administrative
law judge may make a decision on the petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) If 50 or more individual timely requests for hearing are received, the chief
administrative law judge must hold a hearing on the petition according to the contested
case provisions of chapter 14. The sanitary district dissolution proposers are responsible
for paying all costs involved in publicizing and holding a hearing on the petition.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Hearing time, place. new text end

new text begin If a hearing is required under subdivision 3, the
chief administrative law judge shall designate a time and place for a hearing according
to section 442A.13.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Relevant factors. new text end

new text begin (a) In arriving at a decision, the chief administrative law
judge shall consider the following factors:
new text end

new text begin (1) public health, safety, and welfare impacts for the proposed dissolution;
new text end

new text begin (2) alternatives for managing the public health impacts for the proposed dissolution;
new text end

new text begin (3) equities of the petition proposal;
new text end

new text begin (4) contours of the petition proposal; and
new text end

new text begin (5) public notification of and interaction on the petition proposal.
new text end

new text begin (b) Based upon these factors, the chief administrative law judge may order the
dissolution of the sanitary district on finding that:
new text end

new text begin (1) the proposed dissolution area has adequate alternatives for managing public
health impacts due to the dissolution;
new text end

new text begin (2) the sanitary district is not necessary to provide a long-term, equitable solution to
pollution problems affecting public health, safety, and welfare;
new text end

new text begin (3) property owners within the sanitary district were provided notice of the proposed
dissolution and opportunity to comment on the petition proposal; and
new text end

new text begin (4) the petition complied with the requirements of all applicable statutes and rules
pertaining to sanitary district dissolution.
new text end

new text begin (c) The chief administrative law judge may alter the boundaries of the proposed
dissolution area by increasing or decreasing the area to be included or may exclude
property that may be better served by another unit of government. The chief administrative
law judge may also alter the boundaries of the proposed dissolution area so as to follow
visible, clearly recognizable physical features for municipal boundaries.
new text end

new text begin (d) The chief administrative law judge may deny sanitary district dissolution if the
area, or a part thereof, would be better served by an alternative method.
new text end

new text begin (e) In all cases, the chief administrative law judge shall set forth the factors that are
the basis for the decision.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Findings; order. new text end

new text begin (a) After the public notice period or the public hearing, if
required under subdivision 3, and based on the petition, any public comments received,
and, if a hearing was held, the hearing record, the chief administrative law judge shall
make findings of fact and conclusions determining whether the conditions requisite for
the sanitary district dissolution exist in the territory described in the petition. If the chief
administrative law judge finds that conditions exist, the judge may make an order for
sanitary district dissolution for the territory described in the petition.
new text end

new text begin (b) If the chief administrative law judge determines that the conditions requisite for
the creation of the district no longer exist therein, that all indebtedness of the district has
been paid, and that all property of the district except funds has been disposed of, the judge
may make an order dissolving the district and directing the distribution of its remaining
funds, if any, among the related governmental subdivisions on such basis as the chief
administrative law judge determines to be just and equitable, to be specified in the order.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Denial of petition. new text end

new text begin If the chief administrative law judge, after conclusion
of the public notice period or holding a hearing, if required, determines that the sanitary
district dissolution in the territory described in the petition is not warranted, the judge
shall make an order denying the petition. The chief administrative law judge shall give
notice of the denial by mail or e-mail to each signer of the petition. No petition for the
dissolution of a district consisting of the same territory shall be entertained within a year
after the date of an order under this subdivision.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Notice of order for sanitary district dissolution. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative
law judge shall publish in the State Register a notice of the final order for sanitary
district dissolution, referring to the date of the order and describing the territory of the
dissolved district and shall mail or e-mail information of the publication to each property
owner in the affected territory at the owner's address as given by the county auditor. The
information must state the date that the notice will appear in the State Register and give
the Web site location of the State Register. The notice must:
new text end

new text begin (1) describe the petition for dissolution of the district;
new text end

new text begin (2) describe the territory affected by the petition; and
new text end

new text begin (3) state that a certified copy of the order shall be delivered to the secretary of state
for filing ten days after public notice of the order in the State Register.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Filing. new text end

new text begin (a) Ten days after public notice of the order in the State Register,
the chief administrative law judge shall deliver a certified copy of the order to the secretary
of state for filing. Thereupon, the sanitary district dissolution is deemed complete, and it
shall be conclusively presumed that all requirements of law relating thereto have been
complied with. The chief administrative law judge shall also transmit a certified copy of
the order for filing to the county auditor of each county and the clerk or recorder of each
municipality and organized town wherein any part of the territory of the dissolved district
is situated and to the secretary of the district board.
new text end

new text begin (b) The chief administrative law judge shall also transmit a certified copy of the order
to the treasurer of the district, who must thereupon distribute the remaining funds of the
district as directed by the order and who is responsible for the funds until so distributed.
new text end

Sec. 10.

new text begin [442A.08] JOINT PUBLIC INFORMATIONAL MEETING.
new text end

new text begin There must be a joint public informational meeting of the local governments of any
proposed sanitary district creation, annexation, detachment, or dissolution. The joint public
informational meeting must be held after the final mediation meeting or the final meeting
held according to section 442A.02, subdivision 8, if any, and before the hearing on the
matter is held. If no mediation meetings are held, the joint public informational meeting
must be held after the initiating documents have been filed and before the hearing on the
matter. The time, date, and place of the public informational meeting must be determined
jointly by the local governments in the proposed creation, annexation, detachment, or
dissolution areas and by the sanitary district, if one exists. The chair of the sanitary district,
if one exists, and the responsible official for one of the local governments represented at
the meeting must serve as the co-chairs for the informational meeting. Notice of the time,
date, place, and purpose of the informational meeting must be posted by the sanitary
district, if one exists, and local governments in designated places for posting notices. The
sanitary district, if one exists, and represented local governments must also publish, at their
own expense, notice in their respective official newspapers. If the same official newspaper
is used by multiple local government representatives or the sanitary district, a joint notice
may be published and the costs evenly divided. All notice required by this section must
be provided at least ten days before the date for the public informational meeting. At the
public informational meeting, all persons appearing must have an opportunity to be heard,
but the co-chairs may, by mutual agreement, establish the amount of time allowed for each
speaker. The sanitary district board, the local government representatives, and any resident
or affected property owner may be represented by counsel and may place into the record of
the informational meeting documents, expert opinions, or other materials supporting their
positions on issues raised by the proposed proceeding. The secretary of the sanitary district,
if one exists, or a person appointed by the chair must record minutes of the proceedings of
the informational meeting and must make an audio recording of the informational meeting.
The sanitary district, if one exists, or a person appointed by the chair must provide the
chief administrative law judge and the represented local governments with a copy of the
printed minutes and must provide the chief administrative law judge and the represented
local governments with a copy of the audio recording. The record of the informational
meeting for a proceeding under section 442A.04, 442A.05, 442A.06, or 442A.07 is
admissible in any proceeding under this chapter and shall be taken into consideration by
the chief administrative law judge or the chief administrative law judge's designee.
new text end

Sec. 11.

new text begin [442A.09] ANNEXATION BY ORDER OF POLLUTION CONTROL
AGENCY.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Annexation by ordinance alternative. new text end

new text begin If a determination or order
by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency under section 115.49 or other similar statute is
made that cooperation by contract is necessary and feasible between a sanitary district and
an unincorporated area located outside the existing corporate limits of the sanitary district,
the sanitary district required to provide or extend through a contract a governmental
service to an unincorporated area, during the statutory 90-day period provided in section
115.49 to formulate a contract, may in the alternative to formulating a service contract to
provide or extend the service, declare the unincorporated area described in the Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency's determination letter or order annexed to the sanitary district by
adopting an ordinance and submitting it to the chief administrative law judge.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Chief administrative law judge's role. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative law
judge may review and comment on the ordinance but shall approve the ordinance within
30 days of receipt. The ordinance is final and the annexation is effective on the date the
chief administrative law judge approves the ordinance.
new text end

Sec. 12.

new text begin [442A.10] PETITIONERS TO PAY EXPENSES.
new text end

new text begin Expenses of the preparation and submission of petitions in the proceedings under
sections 442A.04 to 442A.09 shall be paid by the petitioners. Notwithstanding section
16A.1283, the Office of Administrative Hearings may adopt rules according to section
14.386 to establish fees necessary to support the preparation and submission of petitions
in proceedings under sections 442A.04 to 442A.09. The fees collected by the Office of
Administrative Hearings shall be deposited in the environmental fund.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment.
new text end

Sec. 13.

new text begin [442A.11] TIME LIMITS FOR ORDERS; APPEALS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Orders; time limit. new text end

new text begin All orders in proceedings under this chapter
shall be issued within one year from the date of the first hearing thereon, provided that
the time may be extended for a fixed additional period upon consent of all parties of
record. Failure to so order shall be deemed to be an order denying the matter. An appeal
may be taken from such failure to so order in the same manner as an appeal from an
order as provided in subdivision 2.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Grounds for appeal. new text end

new text begin (a) Any person aggrieved by an order issued under
this chapter may appeal to the district court upon the following grounds:
new text end

new text begin (1) the order was issued without jurisdiction to act;
new text end

new text begin (2) the order exceeded the jurisdiction of the presiding administrative law judge;
new text end

new text begin (3) the order was arbitrary, fraudulent, capricious, or oppressive or in unreasonable
disregard of the best interests of the territory affected; or
new text end

new text begin (4) the order was based upon an erroneous theory of law.
new text end

new text begin (b) The appeal must be taken in the district court in the county in which the majority
of the area affected is located. The appeal does not stay the effect of the order. All notices
and other documents must be served on both the chief administrative law judge and the
attorney general's assistant assigned to the chief administrative law judge for purposes
of this chapter.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the court determines that the action involved is unlawful or unreasonable or is
not warranted by the evidence in case an issue of fact is involved, the court may vacate or
suspend the action involved, in whole or in part, as the case requires. The matter shall then
be remanded for further action in conformity with the decision of the court.
new text end

new text begin (d) To render a review of an order effectual, the aggrieved person shall file with the
court administrator of the district court of the county in which the majority of the area is
located, within 30 days of the order, an application for review together with the grounds
upon which the review is sought.
new text end

new text begin (e) An appeal lies from the district court as in other civil cases.
new text end

Sec. 14.

new text begin [442A.12] CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE MAY APPEAL
FROM DISTRICT COURT.
new text end

new text begin An appeal may be taken under the Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure by the chief
administrative law judge from a final order or judgment made or rendered by the district
court when the chief administrative law judge determines that the final order or judgment
adversely affects the public interest.
new text end

Sec. 15.

new text begin [442A.13] UNIFORM PROCEDURES.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Hearings. new text end

new text begin (a) Proceedings initiated by the submission of an initiating
document or by the chief administrative law judge shall come on for hearing within 30 to
60 days from receipt of the document by the chief administrative law judge or from the
date of the chief administrative law judge's action and the person conducting the hearing
must submit an order no later than one year from the date of the first hearing.
new text end

new text begin (b) The place of the hearing shall be in the county where a majority of the affected
territory is situated, and shall be established for the convenience of the parties.
new text end

new text begin (c) The chief administrative law judge shall mail notice of the hearing to the
following parties: the sanitary district; any township or municipality presently governing
the affected territory; any township or municipality abutting the affected territory;
the county where the affected territory is situated; and each planning agency that has
jurisdiction over the affected area.
new text end

new text begin (d) The chief administrative law judge shall see that notice of the hearing is published
for two successive weeks in a legal newspaper of general circulation in the affected area.
new text end

new text begin (e) When the chief administrative law judge exercises authority to change the
boundaries of the affected area so as to increase the quantity of land, the hearing shall
be recessed and reconvened upon two weeks' published notice in a legal newspaper of
general circulation in the affected area.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Transmittal of order. new text end

new text begin The chief administrative law judge shall see that
copies of the order are mailed to all parties entitled to mailed notice of hearing under
subdivision 1, individual property owners if initiated in that manner, and any other party
of record.
new text end

Sec. 16.

new text begin [442A.14] DISTRICT BOARD OF MANAGERS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Composition. new text end

new text begin The governing body of each district shall be a board
of managers of five members, who shall be voters residing in the district and who may
but need not be officers, members of governing bodies, or employees of the related
governmental subdivisions, except that when there are more than five territorial units in
a district, there must be one board member for each unit.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Terms. new text end

new text begin The terms of the first board members elected after creation of a
district shall be so arranged and determined by the electing body as to expire on the first
business day in January as follows:
new text end

new text begin (1) the terms of two members in the second calendar year after the year in which
they were elected;
new text end

new text begin (2) the terms of two other members in the third calendar year after the year in which
they were elected; and
new text end

new text begin (3) the term of the remaining member in the fourth calendar year after the year in
which the member was elected. In case a board has more than five members, the additional
members shall be assigned to the groups under clauses (1) to (3) to equalize the groups as
far as practicable. Thereafter, board members shall be elected successively for regular
terms beginning upon expiration of the preceding terms and expiring on the first business
day in January of the third calendar year thereafter. Each board member serves until
a successor is elected and has qualified.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Election of board. new text end

new text begin In a district having only one territorial unit, all the
members of the board shall be elected by the related governing body. In a district having
more than one territorial unit, the members of the board shall be elected by the members
of the related governing bodies in joint session except as otherwise provided. The electing
bodies concerned shall meet and elect the first board members of a new district as soon
as practicable after creation of the district and shall meet and elect board members for
succeeding regular terms as soon as practicable after November 1 next preceding the
beginning of the terms to be filled, respectively.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Central related governing body. new text end

new text begin Upon the creation of a district
having more than one territorial unit, the chief administrative law judge, on the basis of
convenience for joint meeting purposes, shall designate one of the related governing
bodies as the central related governing body in the order creating the district or in a
subsequent special order, of which the chief administrative law judge shall notify the
clerks or recorders of all the related governing bodies. Upon receipt of the notification,
the clerk or recorder of the central related governing body shall immediately transmit the
notification to the presiding officer of the body. The officer shall thereupon call a joint
meeting of the members of all the related governing bodies to elect board members, to
be held at such time as the officer shall fix at the regular meeting place of the officer's
governing body or at such other place in the district as the officer shall determine. The
clerk or recorder of the body must give at least ten days' notice of the meeting by mail to
the clerks or recorders of all the other related governing bodies, who shall immediately
transmit the notice to all the members of the related governing bodies, respectively.
Subsequent joint meetings to elect board members for regular terms must be called and
held in like manner. The presiding officer and the clerk or recorder of the central related
governing body shall act respectively as chair and secretary of the joint electing body at
any meeting thereof, but in case of the absence or disability of either of them, the body
may elect a temporary substitute. A majority of the members of each related governing
body is required for a quorum at any meeting of the joint electing body.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Nominations. new text end

new text begin Nominations for board members may be made by petitions,
each signed by ten or more voters residing and owning land in the district, filed with the
clerk, recorder, or secretary of the electing body before the election meeting. No person
shall sign more than one petition. The electing body shall give due consideration to all
nominations but is not limited thereto.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Election; single governing body. new text end

new text begin In the case of an electing body
consisting of a single related governing body, a majority vote of all members is required
for an election. In the case of a joint electing body, a majority vote of members present is
required for an election. In case of lack of a quorum or failure to elect, a meeting of an
electing body may be adjourned to a stated time and place without further notice.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Election; multiple governing bodies. new text end

new text begin In any district having more than
one territorial unit, the related governing bodies, instead of meeting in joint session, may
elect a board member by resolutions adopted by all of them separately, concurring in the
election of the same person. A majority vote of all members of each related governing
body is required for the adoption of any such resolution. The clerks or recorders of the
other related governing bodies shall transmit certified copies of the resolutions to the clerk
or recorder of the central related governing body. Upon receipt of concurring resolutions
from all the related governing bodies, the presiding officer and clerk or recorder of the
central related governing body shall certify the results and furnish certificates of election
as provided for a joint meeting.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Vacancies. new text end

new text begin Any vacancy in the membership of a board must be filled for
the unexpired term in like manner as provided for the regular election of board members.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Certification of election; temporary chair. new text end

new text begin The presiding and recording
officers of the electing body shall certify the results of each election to the county auditor
of each county wherein any part of the district is situated and to the clerk or recorder of
each related governing body and shall make and transmit to each board member elected
a certificate of the board member's election. Upon electing the first board members of a
district, the presiding officer of the electing body shall designate a member to serve as
temporary chair for purposes of initial organization of the board, and the recording
officer of the body shall include written notice thereof to all the board members with
their certificates of election.
new text end

Sec. 17.

new text begin [442A.15] BOARD ORGANIZATION AND PROCEDURES.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Initial, annual meetings. new text end

new text begin As soon as practicable after the election
of the first board members of a district, the board shall meet at the call of the temporary
chair to elect officers and take other appropriate action for organization and administration
of the district. Each board shall hold a regular annual meeting at the call of the chair or
otherwise as the board prescribes on or as soon as practicable after the first business day in
January of each year and such other regular and special meetings as the board prescribes.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Officers. new text end

new text begin The officers of each district shall be a chair and a vice-chair,
who shall be members of the board, and a secretary and a treasurer, who may but need
not be members of the board. The board of a new district at its initial meeting or as soon
thereafter as practicable shall elect the officers to serve until the first business day in
January next following. Thereafter, the board shall elect the officers at each regular annual
meeting for terms expiring on the first business day in January next following. Each
officer serves until a successor is elected and has qualified.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Meeting place; offices. new text end

new text begin The board at its initial meeting or as soon
thereafter as practicable shall provide for suitable places for board meetings and for offices
of the district officers and may change the same thereafter as the board deems advisable.
The meeting place and offices may be the same as those of any related governing body,
with the approval of the body. The secretary of the board shall notify the secretary of state,
the county auditor of each county wherein any part of the district is situated, and the clerk
or recorder of each related governing body of the locations and post office addresses of the
meeting place and offices and any changes therein.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Budget. new text end

new text begin At any time before the proceeds of the first tax levy in a district
become available, the district board may prepare a budget comprising an estimate of the
expenses of organizing and administering the district until the proceeds are available, with
a proposal for apportionment of the estimated amount among the related governmental
subdivisions, and may request the governing bodies thereof to advance funds according to
the proposal. The governing bodies may authorize advancement of the requested amounts,
or such part thereof as they respectively deem proper, from any funds available in their
respective treasuries. The board shall include in its first tax levy after receipt of any such
advancements a sufficient sum to cover the same and shall cause the same to be repaid,
without interest, from the proceeds of taxes as soon as received.
new text end

Sec. 18.

new text begin [442A.16] DISTRICT STATUS AND POWERS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Status. new text end

new text begin Every district shall be a public corporation and a governmental
subdivision of the state and shall be deemed to be a municipality or municipal corporation
for the purpose of obtaining federal or state grants or loans or otherwise complying with
any provision of federal or state law or for any other purpose relating to the powers and
purposes of the district for which such status is now or hereafter required by law.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Powers and purpose. new text end

new text begin Every district shall have the powers and purposes
prescribed by this chapter and such others as may now or hereafter be prescribed by law.
No express grant of power or enumeration of powers herein shall be deemed to limit the
generality or scope of any grant of power.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Scope of powers and duties. new text end

new text begin Except as otherwise provided, a power or
duty vested in or imposed upon a district or any of its officers, agents, or employees shall
not be deemed exclusive and shall not supersede or abridge any power or duty vested in or
imposed upon any other agency of the state or any governmental subdivision thereof, but
shall be supplementary thereto.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Exercise of power. new text end

new text begin All the powers of a district shall be exercised by its
board of managers except so far as approval of any action by popular vote or by any other
authority may be expressly required by law.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Lawsuits; contracts. new text end

new text begin A district may sue and be sued and may enter into
any contract necessary or proper for the exercise of its powers or the accomplishment
of its purposes.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Property acquisition. new text end

new text begin A district may acquire by purchase, gift, or
condemnation or may lease or rent any real or personal property within or without the
district that may be necessary for the exercise of district powers or the accomplishment of
district purposes, may hold the property for such purposes, and may lease, rent out, sell, or
otherwise dispose of any property not needed for such purposes.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Acceptance of money or property. new text end

new text begin A district may accept gifts, grants,
or loans of money or other property from the United States, the state, or any person,
corporation, or other entity for district purposes; may enter into any agreement required in
connection therewith; and may hold, use, and dispose of the money or property according
to the terms of the gift, grant, loan, or agreement relating thereto.
new text end

Sec. 19.

new text begin [442A.17] SPECIFIC PURPOSES AND POWERS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Pollution prevention. new text end

new text begin A district may construct, install, improve,
maintain, and operate any system, works, or facilities within or without the district
required to control and prevent pollution of any waters of the state within its territory.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Sewage disposal. new text end

new text begin A district may construct, install, improve, maintain,
and operate any system, works, or facilities within or without the district required to
provide for, regulate, and control the disposal of sewage, industrial waste, and other waste
originating within its territory. The district may require any person upon whose premises
there is any source of sewage, industrial waste, or other waste within the district to
connect the premises with the disposal system, works, or facilities of the district whenever
reasonable opportunity therefor is provided.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Garbage, refuse disposal. new text end

new text begin A district may construct, install, improve,
maintain, and operate any system, works, or facilities within or without the district required
to provide for, regulate, and control the disposal of garbage or refuse originating within the
district. The district may require any person upon whose premises any garbage or refuse is
produced or accumulated to dispose of the garbage or refuse through the system, works, or
facilities of the district whenever reasonable opportunity therefor is provided.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Water supply. new text end

new text begin A district may procure supplies of water necessary for any
purpose under subdivisions 1 to 3 and may construct, install, improve, maintain, and
operate any system, works, or facilities required therefor within or without the district.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Roads. new text end

new text begin (a) To maintain the integrity of and facilitate access to district
systems, works, or facilities, the district may maintain and repair a road by agreement with
the entity that was responsible for the performance of maintenance and repair immediately
prior to the agreement. Maintenance and repair includes but is not limited to providing
lighting, snow removal, and grass mowing.
new text end

new text begin (b) A district shall establish a taxing subdistrict of benefited property and shall levy
special taxes, pursuant to section 442A.24, subdivision 2, for the purposes of paying the
cost of improvement or maintenance of a road under paragraph (a).
new text end

new text begin (c) For purposes of this subdivision, a district shall not be construed as a road
authority under chapter 160.
new text end

new text begin (d) The district and its officers and employees are exempt from liability for any tort
claim for injury to person or property arising from travel on a road maintained by the
district and related to the road's maintenance or condition.
new text end

Sec. 20.

new text begin [442A.18] DISTRICT PROJECTS AND FACILITIES.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Public property. new text end

new text begin For the purpose of constructing, improving,
maintaining, or operating any system, works, or facilities designed or used for any purpose
under section 442A.17, a district, its officers, agents, employees, and contractors may enter,
occupy, excavate, and otherwise operate in, upon, under, through, or along any public
highway, including a state trunk highway, or any street, park, or other public grounds so
far as necessary for such work, with the approval of the governing body or other authority
in charge of the public property affected and on such terms as may be agreed upon with the
governing body or authority respecting interference with public use, restoration of previous
conditions, compensation for damages, and other pertinent matters. If an agreement cannot
be reached after reasonable opportunity therefor, the district may acquire the necessary
rights, easements, or other interests in the public property by condemnation, subject to all
applicable provisions of law as in case of taking private property, upon condition that the
court shall determine that there is paramount public necessity for the acquisition.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Use of other systems. new text end

new text begin A district may, upon such terms as may be
agreed upon with the respective governing bodies or authorities concerned, provide for
connecting with or using; lease; or acquire and take over any system, works, or facilities
for any purpose under section 442A.17 belonging to any other governmental subdivision
or other public agency.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Use by other governmental bodies. new text end

new text begin A district may, upon such terms
as may be agreed upon with the respective governing bodies or authorities concerned,
authorize the use by any other governmental subdivision or other public agency of any
system, works, or facilities of the district constructed for any purpose under section
442A.17 so far as the capacity thereof is sufficient beyond the needs of the district. A
district may extend any such system, works, or facilities and permit the use thereof by
persons outside the district, so far as the capacity thereof is sufficient beyond the needs of
the district, upon such terms as the board may prescribe.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Joint projects. new text end

new text begin A district may be a party to a joint cooperative project,
undertaking, or enterprise with one or more other governmental subdivisions or other
public agencies for any purpose under section 442A.17 upon such terms as may be
agreed upon between the governing bodies or authorities concerned. Without limiting the
effect of the foregoing provision or any other provision of this chapter, a district, with
respect to any of said purposes, may act under and be subject to section 471.59, or any
other appropriate law providing for joint or cooperative action between governmental
subdivisions or other public agencies.
new text end

Sec. 21.

new text begin [442A.19] CONTROL OF SANITARY FACILITIES.
new text end

new text begin A district may regulate and control the construction, maintenance, and use of privies,
cesspools, septic tanks, toilets, and other facilities and devices for the reception or disposal
of human or animal excreta or other domestic wastes within its territory so far as necessary
to prevent nuisances or pollution or to protect the public health, safety, and welfare
and may prohibit the use of any such facilities or devices not connected with a district
disposal system, works, or facilities whenever reasonable opportunity for such connection
is provided; provided, that the authority of a district under this section does not extend
or apply to the construction, maintenance, operation, or use by any person other than the
district of any disposal system or part thereof within the district under and in accordance
with a valid and existing permit issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
new text end

Sec. 22.

new text begin [442A.20] DISTRICT PROGRAMS, SURVEYS, AND STUDIES.
new text end

new text begin A district may develop general programs and particular projects within the scope of
its powers and purposes and may make all surveys, studies, and investigations necessary
for the programs and projects.
new text end

Sec. 23.

new text begin [442A.21] GENERAL AND MUNICIPALITY POWERS.
new text end

new text begin A district may do and perform all other acts and things necessary or proper for the
effectuation of its powers and the accomplishment of its purposes. Without limiting the
effect of the foregoing provision or any other provision of this chapter, a district, with
respect to each and all of said powers and purposes, shall have like powers as are vested
in municipalities with respect to any similar purposes. The exercise of such powers by a
district and all matters pertaining thereto are governed by the law relating to the exercise
of similar powers by municipalities and matters pertaining thereto, so far as applicable,
with like force and effect, except as otherwise provided.
new text end

Sec. 24.

new text begin [442A.22] ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
new text end

new text begin A district board of managers may appoint an advisory committee with membership
and duties as the board prescribes.
new text end

Sec. 25.

new text begin [442A.23] BOARD POWERS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Generally. new text end

new text begin The board of managers of every district shall have charge
and control of all the funds, property, and affairs of the district. With respect thereto, the
board has the same powers and duties as are provided by law for a municipality with respect
to similar municipal matters, except as otherwise provided. Except as otherwise provided,
the chair, vice-chair, secretary, and treasurer of the district have the same powers and duties,
respectively, as the mayor, acting mayor, clerk, and treasurer of a municipality. Except as
otherwise provided, the exercise of the powers and the performance of the duties of the
board and officers of the district and all other activities, transactions, and procedures of the
district or any of its officers, agents, or employees, respectively, are governed by the law
relating to similar matters in a municipality, so far as applicable, with like force and effect.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Regulation of district. new text end

new text begin The board may enact ordinances, prescribe
regulations, adopt resolutions, and take other appropriate action relating to any matter
within the powers and purposes of the district and may do and perform all other acts and
things necessary or proper for the effectuation of said powers and the accomplishment
of said purposes. The board may provide that violation of a district ordinance is a penal
offense and may prescribe penalties for violations, not exceeding those prescribed by
law for violation of municipal ordinances.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Arrest; prosecution. new text end

new text begin (a) Violations of district ordinances may be
prosecuted before any court having jurisdiction of misdemeanors. Any peace officer may
make arrests for violations committed anywhere within the district in the same manner as
for violations of city ordinances or for statutory misdemeanors.
new text end

new text begin (b) All fines collected shall be deposited in the treasury of the district.
new text end

Sec. 26.

new text begin [442A.24] TAX LEVIES, ASSESSMENTS, AND SERVICE CHARGES.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Tax levies. new text end

new text begin The board may levy taxes for any district purpose on all
property taxable within the district.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Particular area. new text end

new text begin In the case where a particular area within the district,
but not the entire district, is benefited by a system, works, or facilities of the district,
the board, after holding a public hearing as provided by law for levying assessments on
benefited property, shall by ordinance establish such area as a taxing subdistrict, to be
designated by number, and shall levy special taxes on all the taxable property therein, to be
accounted for separately and used only for the purpose of paying the cost of construction,
improvement, acquisition, maintenance, or operation of such system, works, or facilities,
or paying the principal and interest on bonds issued to provide funds therefor and expenses
incident thereto. The hearing may be held jointly with a hearing for the purpose of levying
assessments on benefited property within the proposed taxing subdistrict.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Benefited property. new text end

new text begin The board shall levy assessments on benefited property
to provide funds for payment of the cost of construction, improvement, or acquisition of
any system, works, or facilities designed or used for any district purpose or for payment of
the principal of and interest on any bonds issued therefor and expenses incident thereto.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Service charges. new text end

new text begin The board shall prescribe service, use, or rental charges
for persons or premises connecting with or making use of any system, works, or facilities
of the district; prescribe the method of payment and collection of the charges; and provide
for the collection thereof for the district by any related governmental subdivision or
other public agency on such terms as may be agreed upon with the governing body or
other authority thereof.
new text end

Sec. 27.

new text begin [442A.25] BORROWING POWERS; BONDS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Borrowing power. new text end

new text begin The board may authorize the borrowing of
money for any district purpose and provide for the repayment thereof, subject to chapter
475. The taxes initially levied by any district according to section 475.61 for the payment
of district bonds, upon property within each municipality included in the district, shall be
included in computing the levy of the municipality.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Bond issuance. new text end

new text begin The board may authorize the issuance of bonds or
obligations of the district to provide funds for the construction, improvement, or
acquisition of any system, works, or facilities for any district purpose or for refunding
any prior bonds or obligations issued for any such purpose and may pledge the full faith
and credit of the district; the proceeds of tax levies or assessments; service, use, or
rental charges; or any combination thereof to the payment of such bonds or obligations
and interest thereon or expenses incident thereto. An election or vote of the people of
the district is required to authorize the issuance of any bonds or obligations. Except as
otherwise provided in this chapter, the forms and procedures for issuing and selling bonds
and provisions for payment thereof must comply with chapter 475.
new text end

Sec. 28.

new text begin [442A.26] FUNDS; DISTRICT TREASURY.
new text end

new text begin The proceeds of all tax levies, assessments, service, use, or rental charges, and
other income of the district must be deposited in the district treasury and must be held
and disposed of as the board may direct for district purposes, subject to any pledges or
dedications made by the board for the use of particular funds for the payment of bonds,
interest thereon, or expenses incident thereto or for other specific purposes.
new text end

Sec. 29.

new text begin [442A.27] EFFECT OF DISTRICT ORDINANCES AND FACILITIES.
new text end

new text begin In any case where an ordinance is enacted or a regulation adopted by a district
board relating to the same subject matter and applicable in the same area as an existing
ordinance or regulation of a related governmental subdivision for the district, the district
ordinance or regulation, to the extent of its application, supersedes the ordinance or
regulation of the related governmental subdivision. In any case where an area within a
district is served for any district purpose by a system, works, or facilities of the district,
no system, works, or facilities shall be constructed, maintained, or operated for the same
purpose in the same area by any related governmental subdivision or other public agency
except as approved by the district board.
new text end

Sec. 30.

new text begin [442A.28] APPLICATION.
new text end

new text begin This chapter does not abridge or supersede any authority of the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency or the commissioner of health, but is subject and supplementary thereto.
Districts and members of district boards are subject to the authority of the Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency and have no power or authority to abate or control pollution that
is permitted by and in accord with any classification of waters, standards of water quality,
or permit established, fixed, or issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
new text end

Sec. 31.

new text begin [442A.29] CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE'S POWERS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Alternative dispute resolution. new text end

new text begin (a) Notwithstanding sections
442A.01 to 442A.28, before assigning a matter to an administrative law judge for hearing,
the chief administrative law judge, upon consultation with affected parties and considering
the procedures and principles established in sections 442A.01 to 442A.28, may require
that disputes over proposed sanitary district creations, attachments, detachments, or
dissolutions be addressed in whole or in part by means of alternative dispute resolution
processes in place of, or in connection with, hearings that would otherwise be required
under sections 442A.01 to 442A.28, including those provided in chapter 14.
new text end

new text begin (b) In all proceedings, the chief administrative law judge has the authority and
responsibility to conduct hearings and issue final orders related to the hearings under
sections 442A.01 to 442A.28.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Cost of proceedings. new text end

new text begin (a) The parties to any matter directed to alternative
dispute resolution under subdivision 1 must pay the costs of the alternative dispute
resolution process or hearing in the proportions that the parties agree to.
new text end

new text begin (b) Notwithstanding section 14.53 or other law, the Office of Administrative
Hearings is not liable for the costs.
new text end

new text begin (c) If the parties do not agree to a division of the costs before the commencement of
mediation, arbitration, or hearing, the costs must be allocated on an equitable basis by
the mediator, arbitrator, or chief administrative law judge.
new text end

new text begin (d) The chief administrative law judge may contract with the parties to a matter for
the purpose of providing administrative law judges and reporters for an administrative
proceeding or alternative dispute resolution.
new text end

new text begin (e) The chief administrative law judge shall assess the cost of services rendered by
the Office of Administrative Hearings as provided by section 14.53.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Parties. new text end

new text begin In this section, "party" means:
new text end

new text begin (1) a property owner, group of property owners, sanitary district, municipality, or
township that files an initiating document or timely objection under this chapter;
new text end

new text begin (2) the sanitary district, municipality, or township within which the subject area
is located;
new text end

new text begin (3) a municipality abutting the subject area; and
new text end

new text begin (4) any other person, group of persons, or governmental agency residing in, owning
property in, or exercising jurisdiction over the subject area that submits a timely request
and is determined by the presiding administrative law judge to have a direct legal interest
that will be affected by the outcome of the proceeding.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Effectuation of agreements. new text end

new text begin Matters resolved or agreed to by the parties
as a result of an alternative dispute resolution process, or otherwise, may be incorporated
into one or more stipulations for purposes of further proceedings according to the
applicable procedures and statutory criteria of this chapter.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Limitations on authority. new text end

new text begin Nothing in this section shall be construed to
permit a sanitary district, municipality, town, or other political subdivision to take, or
agree to take, an action that is not otherwise authorized by this chapter.
new text end

Sec. 32. new text begin REPEALER.
new text end

new text begin Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 115.18, subdivisions 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10;
115.19; 115.20; 115.21; 115.22; 115.23; 115.24; 115.25; 115.26; 115.27; 115.28; 115.29;
115.30; 115.31; 115.32; 115.33; 115.34; 115.35; 115.36; and 115.37, new text end new text begin are repealed.
new text end

Sec. 33. new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE.
new text end

new text begin Unless otherwise provided in this article, sections 1 to 32 are effective August 1, 2013.
new text end