The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 174.49, subdivision 6, to modify the requirements for metropolitan counties regarding the use of certain state and regional funds allocated for transportation. The amendments specify that metropolitan counties must allocate funds received under subdivision 5 for multimodal purposes, with a minimum of 58.5% designated for the repair, preservation, and rehabilitation of transportation systems, as well as roadway replacement. The previous requirement of not exceeding 41.5% for active transportation and transportation corridor safety studies has been removed, and these studies are now included as permissible uses under a new clause.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new effective date of January 1, 2026, for the changes regarding fund allocation. The revised language allows for greater flexibility in how metropolitan counties can utilize these funds, including active transportation and safety studies, while ensuring that the funds are used for allowable purposes as defined in the amended statute. The bill also clarifies that funds can be used for debt service related to transportation obligations, provided they comply with the outlined regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 174.49