MN HF2968

Public building operators must follow specifications for purchasing and using environmentally sensitive cleaning products by September 1, 2011, with full compliance required beginning January 1, 2012.

Environmentally sensitive cleaning products are defined as cleaning products with positive environmental attributes including biodegradability, low toxicity, low volatile organic compound content, reduced packaging, and low life-cycle energy use.

Commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency shall appoint a nine-member task force including state commissioners, industry representatives, environmental advocates, school superintendents, a labor union representative, and a county building administrator to establish guidelines and specifications by January 1, 2011.

Public building owners leasing space or contracting with outside vendors for cleaning must include environmentally sensitive cleaning product language in future leasing and contract agreements.

Operators may submit an annual letter to the Pollution Control Agency requesting exemption if compliance is determined to be economically infeasible, and guidelines shall be reviewed and updated annually beginning January 1, 2012.