This bill aims to make several adjustments to improve environmental permitting processes in Minnesota. It modifies the Wetland Conservation Act to enhance efficiency in determinations. It also changes reporting requirements for permitting efficiency and improves how environmental and resource management permit applications are handled.

Key changes include: 1. The Pollution Control Agency is now required to issue separate permits for the construction and operation of certain facilities. 2. The expedited permitting process of the Pollution Control Agency is modified. 3. Only residents of affected or adjoining counties can petition for environmental assessment worksheets. 4. Environmental assessment worksheet requirements for projects needing an environmental impact statement are eliminated.

The bill also clarifies the review process by local entities, mandates modification of the state implementation plan, requires periodic reports, and appropriates funds for these activities. It revises and updates several sections of Minnesota Statutes 2024 to align with these new efficiency goals.

Overall, the bill focuses on streamlining processes, clarifying requirements, and ensuring that environmental and resource management decisions are made promptly and transparently, all while safeguarding environmental standards.