The final days of the Minnesota Legislature’s session saw the passing of several mining- and energy-related bills aimed at reforming permitting processes. The bills target clean energy infrastructure projects and projects requiring environmental reviews, such as mining. Efforts include beginning oversight for helium and hydrogen extraction projects and enabling mining's return to a state park after nearly 50 years. The legislation aims to reduce red tape hindering economic development and promote the recovery of critical materials essential for the modern economy. Notably, a bill focused on speeding up the review process for projects under environmental assessment includes provisions for a critical material recovery task force. Another bill, the Minnesota Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act, seeks to expedite the permitting of clean energy projects to achieve the state's goal of 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040. The bills also set regulations for the nascent helium extraction industry and pave the way for potential hydrogen exploration in Northeastern Minnesota. Additionally, the legislation abolishes Hill Annex State Park to allow for iron ore mining, with plans for iron waste reclamation and processing into steel-making components. These developments signal a positive shift towards efficient permitting, environmental oversight, and sustainable energy practices in Minnesota.