This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes related to transportation, specifically focusing on project assessment criteria, mitigation activities for vehicle miles traveled requirements, and greenhouse gas emission targets. Key changes include the removal of specific references to vehicle miles traveled reduction targets in project assessments and the introduction of new criteria for assessing projects based on their impact on greenhouse gas emissions. The bill also clarifies that certain projects related to transportation safety are excluded from the assessment requirements and establishes a timeline for implementing these changes, with an effective date following final enactment.

Additionally, the bill modifies the state's transportation policy goals to emphasize the importance of safety and environmental impact, making greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets secondary to safety goals. It requires the establishment of performance targets for emissions reductions in the transportation sector and mandates that the statewide multimodal transportation plan incorporates these goals and objectives. The revisions aim to enhance the overall effectiveness of Minnesota's transportation system while addressing environmental concerns and ensuring public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 161.178, 174.01, 174.03