The bill mandates the payment of prevailing wages for the construction of certain electric transmission lines, specifically those with a capacity of at least 100 kilovolts, as defined in the new section 216B.247. It stipulates that any entity selected through a federally registered planning authority's competitive selection process to develop, construct, and own such electric transmission lines must ensure that their construction contractors and subcontractors are compensated at least at the prevailing wage rate. This provision aims to enhance labor standards in the energy sector.

Additionally, the bill repeals Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 216B.246, which previously outlined the rights of incumbent electric transmission owners regarding the construction and maintenance of electric transmission lines. By eliminating these rights, the bill seeks to streamline the process for developing electric transmission infrastructure and potentially increase competition in the sector. The changes reflect a shift in policy towards ensuring fair labor practices while also modifying the regulatory landscape for electric transmission line ownership and construction.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.246