This bill introduces new regulations concerning the sale and purchase of hot mix and warm mix asphalt in Minnesota. It mandates that business entities engaged in commercial or retail paving with these types of asphalt must register as construction contractors. The bill establishes civil and criminal penalties for violations, including a gross misdemeanor charge for individuals who purchase asphalt without proper registration or who falsely represent their registration status. Additionally, the bill allows the commissioner of labor and industry to impose civil penalties on sellers who sell asphalt to unregistered purchasers, with specific exemptions for personal use under certain conditions.

The bill also amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 326B.701, to include commercial or retail paving with hot mix or warm mix asphalt in the definition of "building construction or improvement services." Furthermore, it provides legal protection for sellers who refuse to sell asphalt based on the new regulations, ensuring they are not liable for civil damages in such cases. The effective date for these provisions is set for August 1, 2027, for any violations or crimes committed after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 326B.701