MN SF4331

Establishes an eight-member Office of Water Policy appointed by the governor, with one member serving as director and all appointments subject to senate confirmation.

Directs the office to develop improved methods for assessing water balance between aquifer systems and between groundwater and surface water, and to share findings with state agencies, legislature, and local government units.

Requires the office to propose methods for securing drinking water supplies, including creating a single assessment and management plan for public sources, assessing private well testing, and addressing lead and other contaminants in cooperation with health and natural resources commissioners.

Authorizes the director to employ staff, apply for and receive grants, enter into interdepartmental and joint powers agreements, and submit annual reports by January 15 to legislative committees on office performance and budget expenditures.

Appropriates unspecified amounts in fiscal year 2023 from both the clean water fund and general fund to the Office of Water Policy director for operations.