The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 161.32, subdivision 1, to establish new requirements for the advertisement of bids related to trunk highway construction work. It introduces a minimum commencement date for construction projects, stipulating that the commissioner must set a date to begin construction that is at least 180 days after the contract award. Additionally, the language clarifies that the commissioner must advertise for bids once each week for three successive weeks prior to the bid submission date, with the option to reject all bids and re-advertise if no satisfactory bids are received.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that the new provisions will take effect for bids first advertised on or after October 1, 2026. The changes aim to enhance the planning and execution of trunk highway construction projects by ensuring a minimum timeframe for commencement, thereby potentially improving project management and contractor engagement.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 161.32