MN SF4244

Establishes a "legacy mine" definition as land mined for iron ore that was closed, abandoned, or ceased production before January 1, 1980, and is not subject to existing mining regulations.

Creates a legacy mine water management account within the natural resources fund to pay for designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining water control systems and structures at legacy mines.

Transfers $30,000,000 from the general fund to the legacy mine water management account in fiscal year 2023 as a one-time transfer.

Requires the commissioner of natural resources to submit an annual report by January 15 detailing water levels at legacy mine pits and expenditures from the account.

Directs the commissioner to assess all legacy mines and submit a prioritized mitigation report by June 30, 2023, with specific focus on Canisteo Mine, Hill-Annex Mine, and St. James Mine.