The bill amends Minnesota Statutes related to transportation by redefining "capacity expansion project" to require a minimum construction cost of at least $30 million and adjusting the criteria for assessing vehicle miles traveled. It introduces provisions for evaluating project consistency with greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of net emissions reductions from related projects. Additionally, the bill establishes a transportation impact assessment and mitigation account to fund initiatives aimed at reducing traffic fatalities and improving safety.

Moreover, the legislation modifies the state's transportation policy goals to prioritize minimizing fatalities and injuries, enhancing economic development, and promoting environmentally friendly transportation options. It sets specific targets for greenhouse gas emissions reductions and mandates that the statewide multimodal transportation plan be revised every five years to align with these goals. A notable addition is the requirement that vehicle miles traveled reduction targets will be secondary to safety and economic well-being goals. The bill also specifies that these new requirements will take effect the day after final enactment, ensuring prompt implementation in future transportation planning efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 161.178, 174.01, 174.03
1st Engrossment: 161.178, 174.01, 174.03