MN HF1647

Department of Commerce must provide technical support and subject matter expertise to assist the 11 federally recognized Indian tribes in Minnesota in establishing a tribal advocacy council on energy.

Department must assist the council in assessing and evaluating common tribal energy issues, including identifying priorities, facilitating idea sharing between tribes, and supporting decision-making on energy matters.

Department must help develop new statewide energy policies or proposed legislation through stakeholder meetings, gathering input, policy development, and facilitating submission and enactment of council-approved policies or legislation.

Department must raise awareness and provide educational opportunities on tribal energy issues by identifying information resources, gathering feedback, and facilitating educational forums on identified topics.

Department support is voluntary and only provided upon council request, limited to areas where Department expertise is requested; tribes are not required to establish a council or participate in any council decisions.