Minnesota Seeks Public Input on Temporary Gas Resource Development Framework
MINNESOTA - The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is inviting public input on draft recommendations and statutory language for a temporary regulatory framework that would govern gas resource development in the state. This framework aims to regulate the exploration and potential production of resources such as hydrogen and helium while protecting environmental and public health and ensuring fair economic benefits.
Why a Regulatory Framework is Needed
Minnesota has untapped potential for geologic hydrogen and helium resources but lacks a gas production history. In 2011, helium was accidentally discovered in northeastern Minnesota, and an exploratory drilling operation in early 2024 confirmed the feasibility of commercial helium production within 12 to 18 months. Recognizing the need for clear regulations, the state legislature passed a directive in May 2024 requiring the development of a temporary framework to responsibly manage gas exploration and production.
The framework is essential to protecting the state’s natural resources, promoting public safety, and establishing a fair royalty system for state-managed lands. Currently, a moratorium prohibits oil and gas production without permits, and permits cannot be issued until either the legislature approves the temporary framework or permanent rules are finalized by May 2026.
Public Participation Opportunities
To ensure transparency and community involvement, the state has opened a 21-day public input period from December 2 to December 23, 2024. During this time, Minnesotans can review the draft recommendations on the GTAC website and provide input through multiple channels:
Online Form: Available on the GTAC website
Email: Send comments to GTAC@state.mn.us
Mail: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ATTN: GTAC, 500 Lafayette Road N, Box 45, St. Paul, MN 55155-4045
Two public meetings will also provide opportunities for residents to learn more about the framework, ask questions, and share their views:
Thursday, December 12, 6-9 p.m. at Giants Ridge Main Chalet, Biwabik, MN - 6325 Wynne Creek Dr, Biwabik, MN 55708.
Tuesday, December 17, 6-9 p.m. at the Eagan Community Center, Eagan, MN - 1501 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121.
The Role of GTAC
The state legislature established the Gas Resources Technical Advisory Committee (GTAC) in 2024 to guide the development of the temporary framework. Comprising representatives from the DNR, Pollution Control Agency, Department of Health, Environmental Quality Board, and Department of Revenue, the multi-agency committee has focused on creating recommendations that will enable responsible gas development while permanent rules are drafted.
GTAC emphasizes environmental protection, public health safeguards, and fair economic policies. After reviewing public input, the committee will finalize its recommendations and submit a report, including draft statutory language, to the legislature by January 15, 2025.
Legislative Process and Funding
If approved, the temporary framework would allow gas development projects to proceed during the rulemaking process. If the legislature does not pass the framework, the current moratorium will remain in effect until permanent rules are adopted by May 2026. The initiative has received significant funding, with $3.17 million allocated for GTAC operations and expedited rulemaking efforts.
Key elements of the enabling legislation include:
Leasing State Lands: Allowing the DNR to lease state-managed lands for gas exploration with approval from the Executive Council.
Permit Restrictions: Prohibiting oil and gas production without a permit, which cannot be issued until legislative or rulemaking approval.
Expedited Rulemaking: Requiring permanent rules for gas production to be finalized by May 2026.
Next Steps and Project Timeline
GTAC will incorporate feedback from the public, tribal governments, and stakeholders before submitting its final recommendations in January 2025. If the temporary framework is approved by the legislature and governor, permitting for gas development can begin while permanent rules are being developed. The entire regulatory process is expected to conclude by mid-2026.
Project timeline: https://gasproductionrules.mn.gov/project-timeline.html
A Balanced Approach to Gas Development
The framework is critical for Minnesota as it seeks to responsibly manage emerging gas industries while protecting natural resources and public health. Community input is vital to shaping a framework that balances economic opportunities with environmental and social responsibilities. Minnesotans are encouraged to participate and help guide the state’s approach to this developing industry.
Written by: Will Wight
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