MN HF182

Establishes a moratorium on water quality and water resource protection rules by the Pollution Control Agency, Department of Natural Resources, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Environmental Quality Board, Department of Agriculture, and Department of Health from July 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, unless required by federal law.

Exempts from the moratorium rules previously listed in notices of intent before July 1, 2011; rules required by law with rulemaking beginning by January 15, 2010; emergency rules; and certain rules under specific Minnesota Statutes sections.

Requires the commissioner of administration to evaluate state and local water-related programs, policies, and permits to identify cost savings opportunities, increased productivity, and elimination of duplication among agencies.

Mandates the evaluation analyze current rules for surface and groundwater, storm water, agriculture, wetlands, and other water resources; assess alternative implementation approaches; identify inconsistencies and redundancies; and evaluate agency responsibilities across six state agencies.

Requires the commissioner to submit study results and recommendations to specified state agencies and legislative committees by January 15, 2012, including assessments of clean water fund allocation and rule continuation or repeal processes.