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| Date: | February 24, 2011 | | Contact Name: | Chris Van Guilder | | Contact Phone: | 651-296-1388 | | Contact Email: | christopher.vanguilder@senate.mn | | For Immediate Release | |
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| SENATE ENVIRONMENT CHAIR BILL INGEBRIGTSEN ON PERMITTING REFORM BILL PASSAGE |
(ST. PAUL) –Minnesota Senators passed legislation to streamline and reform state permitting and regulation procedures Thursday. The Senate passed with bi-partisan support House File 1, by a vote of 49-16, which contains six provisions related to permitting and regulation reform to expedite project approvals and put more Minnesotans back to work.
“This legislation is straightforward and addresses a key concern expressed by people and businesses throughout the state,” stated Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria), the bill’s chief author.
“Republicans and Democrats at the local and state level heard from constituents during the election process asking for an improved business climate,” Senator Ingebrigtsen told members of the Senate Thursday. “A major concern of businesses and individuals is the inconsistent permitting and regulation process. The time and cost required to obtain permits and get projects going is frustrating and hurts job creation. After meeting with hundreds of constituents, fellow legislators and the Governor, this bi-partisan legislation is the correct way forward.”
Senator Ingebrigtsen added, “This legislation establishes improved goals requiring permitting and final project decisions to be issued more quickly. This legislation takes steps to expedite appeals, proposal submittals and to clarify assessment charges. In doing so, we greatly improve existing permitting procedures. Further, we are mindful of the need to protect the environment, public health and natural resources of our state. This bi-partisan legislation does that, while allowing us to move at the speed of commerce and put people back to work.”
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