The proposed bill establishes a statewide moratorium on new billboards in Minnesota, recognizing the state's natural beauty and the importance of tourism to its economy. The legislation includes a declaration that existing billboards are nonconforming uses and introduces new definitions and regulations regarding billboards. Specifically, it prohibits any state agency or political subdivision from issuing permits for new billboards, rendering any conflicting ordinances or policies void. The bill also clarifies that existing billboards will remain nonconforming uses under certain sections of the law.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 462.357, subdivision 1c, to specify that the prohibition on amortization does not apply to billboards as defined in the new section 173.28. This amendment ensures that municipalities cannot enact ordinances that would eliminate or terminate lawful billboard uses through amortization. The effective date for these provisions is set for the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 462.357
1st Engrossment: 462.357