The bill authorizes a vehicle platoon pilot project in Wilkin County and Grant County, Minnesota, allowing for the operation of vehicle platoons on specified roads. It establishes definitions for key terms such as "Commissioner," "Relevant road authority," and "State highway," and outlines the process for obtaining approval from both the relevant road authority and the commissioner of transportation before a platoon can begin operations. The bill mandates that vehicle platoon plans must include specific information, such as the total length of the platoon, vehicle configuration, and proposed operating times, and must be approved within 60 days of application. Additionally, the relevant road authority is required to consult with local law enforcement regarding public safety concerns before granting approval.
The bill also sets forth the locations where the platooning system may operate, detailing specific routes between cities and highways. It establishes an expiration date for approved vehicle platoon plans of January 1, 2030, and requires a report by January 1, 2029, from the relevant road authorities and the commissioner. This report will evaluate the impact of the vehicle platoon plans on road segments, traffic patterns, public safety, and the feasibility of expanding the program statewide.