Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF3316

Introduced
4/7/25  

Caption

Administrative Procedure Act requirements addition to emphasize statutory authorization for rules and governor's statutory authority to authorize rules in an emergency rescindment provision

Impact

If enacted, SF3316 would modify various sections of Minnesota Statutes, which govern the procedures for rule adoption and amendment by state agencies. The bill would necessitate that any agency rule not only follows established procedures but also confirms its statutory authority. This could potentially lead to a more cumbersome rulemaking process, as agencies would need to ensure compliance with the clarified legal frameworks set out by the legislature. The removal of emergency rulemaking authority for the governor is aimed at preventing arbitrary decision-making during crises.

Summary

Senate File 3316 introduces significant changes to Minnesota's Administrative Procedure Act. The bill emphasizes the need for explicit statutory authorization for agency rules, thus seeking to reinforce legislative oversight over executive rulemaking. Specifically, it curtails the governor's power by removing their ability to authorize rules during emergencies, which has been a point of contention in past legislative sessions. The intention is to ensure that rulemaking adheres strictly to statutes passed by the legislature, thereby enhancing accountability and transparency within the administrative process.

Contention

This bill has generated debate among lawmakers, particularly around the issue of executive power versus legislative authority. Supporters argue that revoking the governor's ability to issue emergency rules is a necessary check on power, ensuring that the legislature retains control over significant governance processes. Conversely, some critics have warned that this change could hinder timely policy responses in emergencies, possibly undermining the state's ability to act swiftly in critical situations. The complexities involved in legislative oversight of every rule could also lead to delays in important regulatory reforms.

Companion Bills

MN HF3113

Similar To Administrative Procedure Act requirements added to emphasize statutory authorization for rules, governor's statutory authority to authorize rules in an emergency rescinded, and court deference to agency rule interpretation precluded.

Previously Filed As

MN SF4354

Approval requirement of certain standing committees of the legislature for adoption of rules

MN HF4184

Approval of standing committees of the legislature required for adoption of rules.

MN SF4602

Debt collection, garnishment and consumer finance provisions modifications; debtor protections authorization; related statutory review requirement

MN HF4854

Administrative Procedure Act and Office of Administrative Hearings technical and policy provisions modified.

MN SF4891

Administrative Procedure Act and Office of Administrative Hearings provisions technical and policy changes

MN HF1849

Consumer choice of fuel provided, rulemaking authority modified, and Clean Car rules eliminated.

MN SF211

Specific authority in law requirement for rulemaking

MN SF3868

Ranked choice voting for local offices authorization and procedures establishment provisions

MN SF3028

Legislative approval for adoption of rules requirement

MN HF2530

Consumer choice of fuel provided, rulemaking authority modified, gas stove protection and freedom provided, and Clean Car rules eliminated.

Similar Bills

MN HF20

Wage credits modified and reimbursement provided, general fund transfers authorized, unemployment insurance aid provided, report required, and money appropriated.

MN SF32

Wage credits modification and reimbursement provision; unemployment insurance aid establishment and appropriation

MN HF2320

Children's cabinet modified; Department of Children, Youth, and Families established; Department of Education, Department of Human Services, and Department of Public Safety responsibilities transferred to Department of Children, Youth, and Families; reports required; rulemaking authorized; and money appropriated.

MN SF2399

Department of Children, Youth, and Families establishment; children's cabinet modification; appropriating money

MN SF2401

Department of Children, Youth, and Families establishment; children's cabinet modification; appropriating money

MN SF2398

Department of Children, Youth, and Families establishment; children's cabinet modification; appropriating money

MN SF2400

Department of Children, Youth, and Families establishment; children's cabinet modification; appropriating money

MN HF2323

Children's cabinet modified; Department of Children, Youth, and Families established; Department of Education, Department of Human Services, and Department of Public Safety responsibilities transferred to Department of Children, Youth, and Families; reports required; rulemaking authorized; and money appropriated.