This bill establishes new requirements related to motor vehicle impacts, including the introduction of a vehicle weight surcharge and mandates for weight disclosures by dealers. Specifically, it amends Minnesota Statutes to include a new subdivision that imposes a surcharge based on the weight of passenger automobiles, which will be in addition to the existing registration tax. The bill also requires that before the sale of a new passenger vehicle, dealers must disclose the vehicle's weight rating and provide a summary of safety, environmental, and infrastructure impacts related to motor vehicle weight. The revenue generated from the surcharge will be deposited into the highway user tax distribution fund.

Additionally, the bill mandates a study on motor vehicle front-end height, which must be conducted by the commissioner of transportation by January 15, 2027. This study will assess the geometric design of passenger vehicles and its impact on vulnerable road users, as well as develop a methodology for calculating front-end height characteristics. An appropriation is included to fund this study, ensuring that resources are allocated for its completion. The effective date for the new provisions and the surcharge is set for January 1, 2027, following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 168.013