MN SF4072

Creates a 12-member Clean Water Council in the legislative branch to replace the existing council, consisting of 4 public members appointed by the governor, 2 public members appointed by the senate, 2 public members appointed by the speaker of the house, 2 senate members, and 2 house members.

Public members must have practical experience or expertise in water quality restoration and protection, cannot be registered lobbyists, and serve four-year staggered terms with initial terms ending January 2020 or 2022.

Council must make recommendations to the legislature by January 15 of each odd-numbered year on clean water fund appropriations and policies, with recommendations requiring affirmative votes of at least 9 of 12 members.

Up to 2 percent of annual clean water fund revenue may be used for council administrative expenses and member compensation, with the legislative auditor required to audit all fund expenditures for compliance with law.

Repeals the existing Clean Water Council statute (Minnesota Statutes 2016, section 114D.30) and establishes requirements for open meetings, conflict of interest disclosures, and citizen participation in the council's decision-making process.