Senate panel trims policy from omnibus environment bill, advances budget provisions

The Minnesota Senate Finance Committee advanced the omnibus environment and natural resources finance bill (Senate File 2077) on a voice vote after removing a set of controversial policy provisions and moving several policy sections to a separate bill.

The committee adopted the A52 amendment, which strips multiple policy items from Article 4 and removes entire articles on e‑waste/battery stewardship and environmental permitting reform. The amendment passed by voice vote after staff described the specific deletions and senators debated fiscal and program details.

Committee chair Senator Hur brought the bill back to the committee “on a different shape and form,” said he would remove “the controversial policy” and asked members to move the A52 amendment. Staff member Mr. Stanley summarized the deletions: among other changes, the amendment would repeal a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reporting requirement; remove a provision declaring the state’s wild rice policy; treat off‑road vehicle trail passes like snowmobile trail passes; modify rules on possession and importation of eviscerated carp; allow the use of purple paint in lieu of trespass signs; extend a sunset for crossbow hunting;…