St. Paul, MN (02/13/26) – The Minnesota business community responded on Friday, February 13, to the governor’s executive order advancing environmental permitting reform, calling it a collaborative step that will improve certainty for employers while maintaining Minnesota’s strong environmental standards.
“We appreciate the governor signing this executive order to advance environmental permitting reform, building on the Minnesota Chamber Foundation’s 2024 permitting report and bipartisan work during the 2024 legislative session,” said Doug Loon, President and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. “This progress reflects broad collaboration among business leaders, lawmakers from both parties, state agencies and stakeholders – including labor, agriculture and others – who recognize the need for a more predictable and transparent process. By improving timelines and accountability while maintaining strong environmental standards, this action helps move Minnesota forward and strengthens our ability to compete, grow and create jobs.”
“Minnesota’s largest employers need a regulatory environment that keeps pace with their plans to invest, innovate, and grow in our state. Governor 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 Governor Walz for issuing this Executive Order and sending the message that Minnesota wants to be a partner in growth for businesses.”
The Minnesota Chamber is a statewide organization representing more than 6,300 businesses of all types and sizes – and more than half a million employees – throughout Minnesota. The Chamber was recognized recently as the nation’s number one chamber for working tirelessly for its members; providing one-on-one business services, opportunities to grow their networks and knowledge base, and cultivating an economic environment where businesses stay and grow in our state. A business climate that allows for innovation and forward-thinking leadership will help grow the strength of Minnesota’s economy for generations to come.
The Minnesota Business Partnership is a nonpartisan organization of CEOs and senior leaders representing approximately 100 of Minnesota’s largest employers. MBP member companies collectively employ more than 500,000 Minnesotans, contribute billions in state and local taxes, and support schools, arts, and cultural institutions across the state. The organization works collaboratively with business leaders and policymakers to ensure Minnesota remains a state where businesses can start, grow, and flourish while maintaining a high quality of life for all residents. For more information, visit www.mnbp.com.