The Minnesota business community is applauding an executive order from Gov. Tim Walz advancing environmental permitting reform, calling it a collaborative step that will improve certainty for employers while maintaining Minnesota’s strong environmental standards.
“Minnesota’s largest employers need a regulatory environment that keeps pace with their plans to invest, innovate, and grow in our state. Gov. Walz’s executive order addressing permitting reform is a welcome sign that our leaders recognize that need, and we thank him for making this a priority,” said Kurt Zellers, CEO of the Minnesota Business Partnership. “When companies are deciding where to build new R&D facilities or expand operations, permitting timelines matter. Allowing companies to begin limited construction while awaiting full permit approval, brings Minnesota in line with how the majority of states already operate – and sends an important signal to businesses weighing where to make their next major investment. We applaud Gov. Walz for issuing this executive order and sending the message that Minnesota wants to be a partner in growth for businesses.”