Public Health Priority Points Rules
Proposed Revisions

The Minnesota Department of Health intends to adopt rules without a public hearing on its possible revisions governing the Public Health Priority Points assigned under the Drinking Water Revolving Fund (DWRF) . MDH encourages comments and you may submit written comments on the proposed rules and may also submit a written request that a hearing be held on the rules (as provided below) until June 21, 2023. The proposed revisions would allow Public Health Priority Points to be assigned for projects relating to the removal of lead service lines and addressing contaminants of emerging concern when concentrations exceed a health advisory level.

MDH coordinates a program, the Drinking Water Revolving Fund (DWRF), which provides below market rate loans for public water system improvements. The proposed changes would protect public health by reducing the public’s exposure to harmful contaminants and assist Minnesota communities with financial needs to remove or provide treatment to reduce contaminants.

Projects submitted to DWRF are prioritized utilizing rule-defined Public Health Priority Points in order to ensure that funding priority goes to projects that:

• protect public health;
• provide adequate water supply; and
• assist communities with financial needs.

The proposed revisions would allow Public Health Priority Points to be assigned for projects relating to the removal of lead service lines and addressing contaminants of emerging concern when concentrations exceed a health advisory level. The proposed changes would protect public health by reducing the public’s exposure to harmful contaminants and assist communities with financial needs to remove or provide treatment to reduce contaminants.

Revision documents

Adoption of Rules Governing Drinking Water Protection Public Health Priority Points, Minnesota Rules, chapter 4720.9020 (September 26, 2023)
Order Adopting Rules (PDF)

Notice of Intent to Adopt and Proposed Rules as published on May 22, 2023, in the Minnesota State Register, Volume 47, Number 47 (Pages 1117-1120)
Minnesota State Register, Volume 47, Number 47 (PDF)

Notice of Intent to Adopt Rules Without a Public Hearing
Notice of Intent to Adopt Rules Without a Public Hearing (PDF) (Published in State Register May 2023) 

Statement of Need and Reasonableness
Statement of Need and Reasonableness (PDF) (May 2023)

Updated April 28, 2023 Revisor Draft of Proposed Changes
Proposed Permanent Rules Governing Drinking Water Protection: 4720.9020 Public Health Priority Points (PDF) (April 28, 2023)