Environmental Permitting

Issue

What legislation and regulatory changes will streamline and reduce the cost of the state’s environmental review and permitting processes?

Policy

Minnesota businesses statewide have expressed frustration and concern about the time required to process environmental review documents and environmental permits. To maximize competitiveness in a global economy, companies seeking industrial permits – whether for existing, expanding or new facilities – must be assured of the clarity, timeliness, predictability and accountability of the environmental review and permitting process.

Minnesota Chamber members support legislation to improve the review and permitting process that includes the following:

• Update mandatory categories for environmental assessment worksheets and environmental impact statements.

• Allow construction but not operation of a project to begin before completion of a “minor” air permit.

• Clarify that permitees must be notified within 30 days after an application is submitted as to whether it is substantially complete and, if not, the state agency shall notify the permittee in writing.

• Create an economic development coordinator to coordinate all state agencies, permits, loans, grants, rules and regulations on large economic development projects

Business Impact

Sensible environmental regulations allow Minnesota to maintain a clean environment and a healthy business climate while fostering economic development throughout the state. Companies need certainty in the regulatory process when expanding or starting a business. The current permitting process can be intimidating, confusing and costly. All costs and regulatory requirements are compared against other states. Permits must be received in months, not years, so businesses are encouraged to expand or locate in Minnesota. Minnesota businesses want an efficient, expedient regulatory environment, providing clarity, timeliness and predictability while maintaining a strong safety and environmental protection program.