This Minnesota House Bill (H.F. No. 1481) focuses on monitoring and regulating biofuel production concerning environmental and human health risks. Key provisions include:

1. Testing of Biofuel Coproducts – The Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture must sample and test dried distillers’ grains and other biofuel coproducts (such as ethanol and biodiesel byproducts) for neonicotinoid pesticides and perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

2. Wastewater Monitoring Requirements – Biofuel plants must monitor wastewater for neonicotinoids and PFAS as part of their permit conditions. They must maintain permanent records, submit data upon request, and undergo periodic inspections to ensure accuracy.

3. Air Emissions Monitoring – Air emissions permits for ethanol, biodiesel, and advanced biofuel plants must include monitoring for neonicotinoids and PFAS. The results must be recorded and made available to regulators and the public.

4. Biofuel Product Testing – The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Department of Commerce must collect and test ethanol, biodiesel, and advanced biofuel produced in the state for the presence of neonicotinoids and PFAS.

5. Voluntary Employee Biomonitoring – The Minnesota Department of Health will conduct voluntary biomonitoring programs for biofuel plant workers to assess workplace exposure to these chemicals.

6. Appropriations – Funding is allocated as follows:

   • $100,000 per year (FY 2026 & 2027) for the Department of Agriculture to implement coproduct testing.
   • $500,000 per year (FY 2026 & 2027) for the Pollution Control Agency to implement wastewater and air emissions monitoring.
   • $250,000 per year (FY 2026 & 2027) for the Department of Health to conduct voluntary biomonitoring.
   • $250,000 (one-time) for a lifecycle assessment of the presence of neonicotinoids in biofuel production, including feedstocks, coproducts, emissions, and fuel.

7. Lifecycle Assessment Report – By December 15, 2026, the Department of Agriculture must report findings and recommendations to legislative committees overseeing agriculture and environmental matters.

This bill aims to enhance environmental oversight of biofuels while addressing potential health risks related to pesticide and chemical contamination in biofuel production and its byproducts.