Heintzeman Introduces House File 8
St. Paul – Representative Josh Heintzeman (R-Nisswa) has introduced legislation to improve the efficiency of the environmental permitting process while maintaining stringent state standards.
Officially known as the Efficiency and Wetland Conservation Act, Heintzeman said his proposal aims to protect the environment and human health while also enabling economic development.
“As a longtime resident of the Brainerd Lakes Area and an avid outdoorsman, it is imperative that changes made to the permitting process do not degrade our environmental protections,” said Heintzeman, Chair of the House Environmental and Natural Resources Committee. “As someone who likes to fish and hunt, I know first-hand the importance of having clean water and air to support the health of our wildlife populations and to provide fresh produce and drinking water to our communities.”
The Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee met on Thursday to discuss this bill and hear testimony. The bill was then referred to the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development.