The proposed bill establishes a statewide moratorium on the issuance of permits for new billboards in Minnesota, recognizing the state's natural beauty and the importance of tourism to its economy. The legislation includes a definition of "billboard" that encompasses advertising devices visible to all individuals, regardless of whether they are in a vehicle. Existing billboards will be classified as nonconforming uses, meaning they are allowed to remain but cannot be replaced or expanded. The bill explicitly states that any conflicting local ordinances or policies will be rendered void.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 462.357, subdivision 1c, to clarify that the prohibition on amortization does not apply to billboards as defined in the new section. This means municipalities cannot eliminate or terminate existing billboards through amortization, thereby protecting them under current law. The effective date for the new provisions is set for the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 462.357