MN HF3880

Allows the commissioner of natural resources to issue or amend groundwater appropriation permits for municipalities wholly or partially within a five-mile radius of White Bear Lake if the application is for a new well or increased appropriation and the amount is consistent with an approved water supply plan from before 2021.

Mandates the commissioner must issue groundwater appropriation permits meeting specified criteria, with authority to impose conditions that do not prevent the applicant from appropriating the requested groundwater amount.

Exempts groundwater appropriation permits meeting the specified White Bear Lake criteria from civil action lawsuits under environmental protection statutes, preventing legal challenges to permit issuance.

Requires the commissioner of natural resources, in cooperation with the Minnesota Department of Health, Metropolitan Council, and east metropolitan municipalities, to develop recommendations for supplying safe drinking water while supporting municipal growth and protecting White Bear Lake and neighboring aquifers.

Mandates a report to legislative committees on environment and natural resources by October 1, 2023, presenting findings and recommendations on sustainable groundwater management options.

All provisions are effective retroactively from August 1, 2017, and expire January 1, 2041.