Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to change the rule adoption process in Minnesota by requiring legislative approval and the governor’s signature for new rules to become effective. This shifts more authority to elected officials in approving state rules.

Main Provisions

• Ratification Requirement: For a rule to become effective, it must be ratified through a law passed by the Minnesota legislature and signed by the governor within one year of its publication notice in the State Register.
• Exception for Emergency Rules: Emergency rules adopted by executive order under section 12.22 are not subject to this requirement.
• Notification Process: A notice of ratification must be published in the State Register within five days after the rule is ratified.
• Modifications to Existing Processes: If the adopted rule is the same as the proposed rule, it can be published simply by referencing previous publications. If there are changes, the notice must detail the differences and must clarify modifications to a reasonable reader.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Existing Rule Effectiveness: Previously, rules became effective after the fulfillment of certain administrative procedures and a five-day waiting period following publication. This bill adds the requirement of legislative and gubernatorial approval for a rule to take effect, except in emergency situations.
• Publication of Changes: The bill updates publication requirements for amendments, ensuring clarity on modifications from proposed to adopted rules.

Relevant Terms

• Legislative Approval
• Governor's Signature
• Rule Ratification
• State Register
• Rule Adoption Process
• Emergency Rules
• Administrative Procedure