The statement of need and reasonableness must summarize the evidence and argument that the agency is relying on to justify both the need for and the reasonableness of the proposed rules, and must state how the evidence rationally relates to the choice of action taken. The statement must explain the circumstances that created the need for the rulemaking and why the proposed rulemaking is a reasonable solution for meeting the need. The statement must be sufficiently specific so that interested persons will be able to fully prepare any testimony or evidence in favor of or in opposition to the proposed rules. A general description of the statute being implemented or restating the proposed rule is not sufficient. The statement must include:
The statement need not contain evidence and argument in rebuttal of evidence and argument presented by the public. If an agency is amending existing rules, the agency need not demonstrate the need for and reasonableness of the existing rules not affected by the proposed amendments.
The statement must also contain the following:
The statement must be prepared on or before the signature date on the agency's notice of intent to adopt rules, notice of hearing, or dual notice. The agency must send a copy of the statement to the Legislative Reference Library when the notice is mailed.
Minn. R. agency 104, ch. 1400, GENERAL RULEMAKING PROVISIONS, pt. 1400.2070
Statutory Authority: MS s 14.386; 14.388; 14.51; 15.474