The proposed bill in Minnesota aims to modify the procedures and standards for state-aid engineering and design variances, allowing local road authorities to adopt alternative roadway design standards without needing state-aid engineering variances, provided they pass a resolution. A new subdivision is introduced to define "qualifying alternative roadway design standards," which will reference recognized design guides. The bill also establishes an advisory committee to review variance requests and requires the commissioner to notify legislative committees of any denied requests, including justifications for those denials.

Additionally, the bill streamlines the variance request process for political subdivisions, exempting them from seeking variances for certain design modifications that comply with the new standards. It includes provisions for indemnification of the state by these subdivisions and exempts them from municipal liability claims. The bill also repeals certain existing rules related to variance requests and modifies the rulemaking process for the commissioner of transportation, emphasizing safety considerations for nonmotorized transportation. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, for state-aid roadway projects initiated after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 162.02, 162.09, 162.155
1st Engrossment: 162.02, 162.09, 162.155