MN HF954

Establishes a moratorium on environmental review and permits for nonferrous sulfide ore mining projects (copper, nickel, gold, platinum, etc.) until commissioners can verify a similar mine in the U.S. has operated commercially for at least 10 years and been closed for at least 10 years without releasing hazardous substances

Requires the comparable mine to have operated in a "similar environment" with matching precipitation, temperatures, and proximity of surface water and groundwater to the proposed Minnesota site

Places the burden of proof on mining project applicants to demonstrate all conditions are met; mandates contested case hearings if probative contrary evidence is submitted during public comment

Requires existing nonferrous sulfide ore mining permits to be reissued every 10 years, with any renewals, modifications, or expansions subject to the same moratorium conditions

Exempts iron ore mining from all provisions; takes effect immediately and applies retroactively to projects that have begun but not completed environmental review