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 issued by 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 its reimbursement calculations for the interstate highway system.

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 commissioner determines that the relocation of such a utility system is required due to trunk highway construction, the remaining service life of the utility must be assessed, and the associated costs will also be covered by the trunk highway fund. This change aims to ensure that local governments are supported in managing utility relocations necessitated by highway projects.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 161.46