The bill appropriates a total of $2,000,000 from the general fund to the Minnesota Department of Transportation for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027, specifically aimed at supporting the delivery of medical supplies to rural areas using small unmanned aircraft systems. This funding is designated for various developmental and support activities, including infrastructure improvements for air navigation facilities, assistance with federal certification applications, testing of delivery systems, public engagement and education initiatives, and the establishment of best practices for the use of these aircraft in medical supply delivery.
Additionally, the bill mandates that the commissioner of transportation consult with the commissioner of health and the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy regarding the expenditures related to this initiative. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the implementation of small unmanned aircraft systems for medical supply delivery is effective and meets the needs of rural communities in Minnesota.