This bill aims to enhance rail safety in Minnesota by increasing the number of state rail safety inspectors from six to ten. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically sections 218.041 and 219.015, to reflect this change. The bill also includes a technical correction and outlines the powers of the commissioner, which include the ability to assess common carriers and administer the state rail safety inspection program.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the annual assessment of railroad companies will now account for the costs associated with supporting up to ten inspectors, rather than the previous limit of six. This assessment will be based on the route miles operated by the carriers in Minnesota, ensuring that the costs are allocated proportionally. The funds collected from these assessments will be deposited into a state rail safety inspection account, which is designated for the administration of the rail safety inspection program and related costs. The effective date of the changes will be the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 218.041, 219.015