MN SF1657

Creates a 30-member Environment and Natural Resources Organization Advisory Committee to recommend restructuring of state agencies and local governments administering environmental and natural resource policies, with members appointed by August 15, 2010, and the committee expiring September 1, 2011.

Committee membership includes legislative members (two from senate, two from house), public members appointed by senate, speaker, and governor, and representatives from 19 agricultural, environmental, business, and labor organizations.

Advisory committee must establish intergovernmental task force by October 15, 2010, and employee participation task force by October 15, 2010, each to report findings by June 15, 2011, with final recommendations submitted to governor and legislature by August 15, 2011.

Requires committee consideration of all powers and duties of Pollution Control Agency, Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality Board, Board of Water and Soil Resources, and three compensation boards, plus specified functions from Departments of Agriculture, Health, Transportation, and Commerce.

Committee recommendations must address reducing redundant management, improving accountability, consolidating permitting functions, enhancing public participation, reducing personnel through attrition, and supporting green economy job creation.