The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 161.46, subdivision 2, to require the payment of certain local government utility costs related to trunk highway construction from the trunk highway fund. Specifically, it mandates that when the relocation of a utility facility is necessitated by federally aided trunk highway construction, the utility owner must comply with the relocation order from the commissioner. The costs incurred for this relocation will be reimbursed from the trunk highway fund, with the stipulation that the reimbursement does not exceed the amount used by the federal government for interstate highway system reimbursements.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for local units of government and Minnesota Tribal governments that own utility systems supplying essential services such as light, water, and sewer. It states that if the utility system is authorized to use a public highway for its facilities and requires relocation due to trunk highway construction, the remaining service life of the utility must be assessed by the commissioner. The costs associated with this relocation will also be covered by the trunk highway fund, ensuring that local governments are supported in managing utility relocations necessitated by highway projects.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 161.46