Minnesota House Bill HF955

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/23
• Refer: 1/26/23

Caption

Financial assurance required for feedlot permits, inventories and reports required, and money appropriated.

Impact

HF955 proposes amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2022, particularly section 116.07, to introduce new financial assurance mandates that feedlot operators must meet during their permit issuance or renewal processes. Notably, it includes creating a systematic approach to compiling annual inventories of abandoned manure storage areas across the state. The objective is to facilitate better environmental management and proactive measures to address areas that have ceased operations, ensuring they do not pose a risk to groundwater and surrounding ecosystems.

Summary

House File 955 (HF955) is a legislative proposal focused on enhancing the accountability and financial security requirements for feedlots in Minnesota. Specifically, the bill mandates that feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more animal units must provide proof of financial assurance to cover potential closure costs associated with the feedlot and its manure storage. This requirement aims to ensure that environmental protections are upheld and that there are adequate financial resources for proper closure procedures, thereby preventing environmental degradation and safeguarding public health.

Contention

While the bill is primarily aimed at enhancing environmental safeguards, it has sparked discussions regarding its potential economic impact on feedlot operators. Proponents of HF955 argue that the financial assurance requirements are necessary to protect the environment and public health, emphasizing the long-term benefits of responsible feedlot management. Conversely, some stakeholders within the agricultural community express concern that the additional financial burden may pose challenges for feedlot operators, especially smaller operations, potentially leading to increased operational costs and affecting their financial viability.