This bill, titled H.F. No. 1242, is related to transportation in the state of Minnesota. It establishes a Commercial Driver Training Assistance Program to provide financial support for individuals seeking commercial driver's license (CDL) education and training. It also includes amendments to existing laws regarding driver testing and third-party CDL testing.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

1. Definition Updates:

   • Adds a new definition for "road test" in Minnesota Statutes §171.01.
   • Prohibits the Department of Transportation from reserving recurring testing slots for driver education programs (§171.13).

2. Third-Party CDL Testing Expansion (§171.3213):

   • Allows school districts and school bus companies with third-party testing programs to administer CDL road tests for other districts and companies.
   • Enables such third-party testers to contract with public, private, or commercial driver education programs to administer road tests.
   • Requires agreements for third-party testing to be approved by the State Commissioner of Transportation.

3. Commercial Driver Training Assistance Program (§171.45):

   • Establishes a financial assistance program for CDL training, subject to available funds.
   • Defines key terms such as "award recipient," "CDL training," "driver training school," and "registered employer."
   • Requires the Commissioner of Transportation to administer the program, which includes:
     • Allocating financial assistance on a first-come, first-served basis.
     • Publishing guidelines and standards.
     • Maintaining an updated list of registered training providers and employers.
     • Issuing reports on expenditures.

4. Eligibility & Financial Assistance:

   • Individual Eligibility:
     • Must be a Minnesota resident, U.S. citizen, and at least 18 years old.
     • Hold a valid Minnesota driver’s license.
     • Have no license suspensions or revocations in the past five years.
     • Provide proof of job shadowing with at least two motor carriers.
   • Financial Assistance Terms:
     • Covers the cost of CDL training, including tuition, books, and fees.
     • Includes a stipend for reasonable living expenses.
     • Payments can be made directly to CDL training providers.
   • Employer Participation:
     • Employers can register to provide CDL training and mentorship programs.
     • They must support new drivers with entry-level training for at least one year.
     • Eligible employers can receive reimbursement for CDL training costs.

5. Repayment & Reporting Requirements:

   • Recipients must work as a commercial driver with a registered employer for one year.
   • If an individual fails to meet employment terms, they may need to repay a portion of the financial assistance.
   • Employers, training providers, and drivers must submit quarterly reports for accountability.

6. Program Funding (§Appropriation):

   • Allocates $6 million from the general fund in fiscal year 2026 for the program.
   • Funds are available until June 30, 2028.
   • Allows the Department of Transportation to use Driver and Vehicle Services Technology funds for implementing related information systems.

Summary:

This bill establishes a state-funded grant program to help individuals obtain commercial driver training and licensing. It expands CDL testing options, sets up a structured financial assistance program for aspiring commercial drivers, and provides reimbursement incentives for employers that offer CDL training. The bill aims to address workforce shortages in the trucking industry and improve access to CDL training in Minnesota.