This bill proposes significant changes to the motor vehicle registration tax system in Minnesota by establishing a weight-based registration tax for passenger automobiles and hearses. The new tax structure will replace the previous percentage-based calculations tied to the manufacturer's suggested retail price, which included various adjustments based on the vehicle's age. Specifically, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, section 168.013, subdivision 1a, to introduce a registration tax based on the total gross vehicle weight rating, with a detailed weight registration schedule to be established. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for determining the gross vehicle weight rating through inspection of the manufacturer's safety compliance certification label.

Furthermore, the bill repeals existing surcharges for electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, as outlined in Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 168.013, subdivisions 1m and 1n, and also repeals subdivision 23, which allowed for adjustments to the registration tax based on errors or omissions. The effective date for these changes is set for January 1, 2027, following final enactment. Overall, the bill aims to simplify the registration tax process while promoting fairness in taxation based on vehicle weight rather than price.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 168.013, 169.86