The proposed bill seeks to improve driver and vehicle services in Minnesota by establishing "full-service providers" authorized to offer copies of specific driver and vehicle records. It introduces new definitions and requirements for these providers, including a mandate to transmit a portion of collected fees to the state. The bill also increases filing fees for driver's license applications and removes the requirement for new residents to take a written exam. Additionally, it modifies access provisions to the driver and vehicle services information system and requires a report on the implementation of these changes. Key amendments include the addition of several subdivisions that define the role and responsibilities of full-service providers, as well as enhanced monitoring and auditing measures to ensure compliance with regulations.

Moreover, the bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes related to driver and vehicle services, allowing agents to collect fees via credit or debit cards and charge convenience fees. It mandates the Department of Public Safety to provide necessary equipment to agents and requires that filing fees collected by county-employed agents be deposited into the county treasury. The bill also enhances security measures for the information system, requires the commissioner to ensure adequate exam stations, and introduces a reporting requirement on driver and vehicle services recommendations. Additionally, it includes appropriations totaling $7 million for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 to support various aspects of the services, and it repeals a previous statute that restricted the furnishing of vehicle registration information by telephone. The effective dates for the provisions vary, with some taking effect immediately and others set for specific dates in 2023 and 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 168.345, 168.002, 168.327, 169.09, 171.01, 171.06, 171.061, 171.0705, 171.12, 171.13