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 requirement for applicable entities to perform impact assessments for projects before their inclusion in transportation improvement programs, ensuring that projects conform to updated greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. The bill also clarifies that certain projects, particularly those related to transportation safety, are excluded from the assessment criteria. Additionally, it establishes a timeline for assessing projects based on a portfolio approach rather than individually, with specific dates set for implementation.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the state's transportation policy goals to emphasize the importance of minimizing fatalities and injuries, enhancing economic development, and promoting environmentally friendly transportation options. It introduces new language that prioritizes greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and outlines the need for performance targets to be established on a regular basis. The bill also emphasizes that vehicle miles traveled reduction targets are secondary to safety goals, ensuring that safety remains a primary focus in transportation planning. All amendments are effective the day following final enactment and apply to plans or projects assessed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 161.178, 174.01, 174.03