This bill aims to consolidate transit services in the Twin Cities metropolitan area by establishing a unified comprehensive transit system operated exclusively by the Metropolitan Council. It includes provisions that prohibit local governmental units from expending funds for direct transit operations unless under an agreement with the council, effective July 1, 2027. The bill also mandates the development of an implementation plan for this consolidation, which must be created in consultation with a newly established Transit Consolidation Task Force. The task force will consist of various stakeholders, including representatives from local governments and transportation agencies, and is tasked with advising on the implementation process and providing recommendations.

Additionally, the bill requires the Metropolitan Council to conduct a study on bus service enhancement options in communities served by the replacement service program. This study will identify potential corridors for additional bus services, analyze current transit levels, and recommend improvements. A report summarizing the findings of this study must be submitted by February 1, 2028. The bill also includes specific amendments to existing Minnesota Statutes, including the addition of new subdivisions that outline the authority of the Metropolitan Council and the requirements for local governmental units regarding transit funding.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 473.385, 473.388