Environmental Quality Board authorizes staff to begin rulemaking on mandatory environmental review for gas production projects

The Environmental Quality Board voted on April 16 to authorize staff to begin rulemaking to identify mandatory environmental-review categories for gas production projects, with the board limiting the request to gas (not oil). The motion passed with a roll-call showing 12 yes, 0 no and 5 members not voting; the board's resolution directs staff to start the process that could lead to formal rules and further public engagement.

The vote matters because state law enacted in May 2024 placed a moratorium on production until rules are adopted or an interim legislative temporary-permit framework is approved, and it also directs agencies to use expedited rulemaking procedures if they choose to adopt rules. Executive staff said agencies must publish a notice of intent to adopt rules by May 2026 under that expedited schedule.

Jesse Krasinski, environmental review program administrator for the EQB, told the board, "Staff is recommending that the board approve the resolution allowing staff to begin the rulemaking process to identify mandatory environmental review categories for gas production projects." He said staff is recommending rulemaking now only for gas and not oil because Minnesota…