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HF1832 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Certain special vehicle operation on roads by ordinance without a permit authorized, and conforming and technical changes made.

Related bill: SF2207

AI Generated Summary

This bill, H.F. No. 1832, introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives, amends Minnesota Statutes section 169.045 regarding the operation of certain special vehicles on public roadways. The key provisions of the bill include:

  1. Local Authorization for Special Vehicles – Cities, towns, and counties can pass ordinances allowing the operation of motorized golf carts, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility task vehicles (UTVs), and mini trucks on designated roadways under their jurisdiction.

  2. Permit Requirements – Operation of these vehicles generally requires a permit issued by the local government, which can establish conditions for issuance. Permits can last up to three years and may be revoked if the operator is deemed unable to safely drive the vehicle.

  3. Operational Regulations –

    • These vehicles may only be used from sunrise to sunset, unless equipped with headlights, taillights, and brake lights.
    • They cannot be operated in poor visibility conditions unless permitted for emergency use.
    • They may cross street and highway intersections.

  4. Traffic Laws and Equipment Requirements –

    • Operators must follow general traffic laws unless certain rules are not applicable to these vehicles.
    • Mini trucks must comply with specific equipment requirements, including headlights, taillights, turn signals, mirrors, a windshield, seat belts, and a parking brake.

  5. Insurance Requirements – If an operator cannot obtain liability insurance in the private market, they may purchase coverage through the Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan.

The bill primarily aims to provide greater flexibility for local governments to regulate the use of these vehicles on public roads while maintaining safety and insurance requirements.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 02, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading, referred toTransportation Finance and Policy

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "summary": "Defines 'all-terrain vehicle' for the purposes of special vehicle use rules under the amended section.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies the definition related to vehicle types allowed on roadways."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "84.92"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Introduces additional vehicle types for operation on designated roadways."
      ],
      "summary": "Defines 'mini truck' in subdivision 40a, applicable to the ordinance designations."
    },
    "citation": "169.011"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "summary": "Specifies insurance requirements for vehicles operating under permit according to the amended ordinance.",
      "modified": [
        "Adjusts insurance compliance requirements for vehicles seeking operational permit."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "65B.48"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Emphasis on visibility requirements for enhanced safety."
      ],
      "summary": "Requires motorized golf carts to display slow-moving vehicle emblems when operated on designated roadways."
    },
    "citation": "169.522"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "summary": "Relates to vehicle equipment laws that are not applicable to certain utility vehicles under permit.",
      "modified": [
        "Exempts specific vehicles from some equipment regulations, with conditions applied."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "169.70"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Provides an alternative insurance solution for specific vehicle operators."
      ],
      "summary": "Allows purchase of automobile insurance through the Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan if private market options are unavailable."
    },
    "citation": "65B.01 to 65B.12"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "summary": "Applies provisions of chapter 171 to mini trucks, but not to motorized golf carts, utility task vehicles, or all-terrain vehicles.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies applicability of certain traffic regulations for specific vehicle categories."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "171"
  }
]

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