SF2653

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to introduce a special license plate program in Minnesota supporting solar pollinator programs. It also aims to allow certain solar sites, specifically agrivoltaic sites, to be eligible for specified solar site management practices.

Main Provisions

• Solar Pollinator Program License Plates: The bill introduces special license plates for individuals who wish to support solar pollinator programs financially.

  • Applicants must be registered owners of a passenger automobile, non-commercial one-ton pickup truck, motorcycle, or recreational vehicle.
  • An annual contribution of at least $60 is required to the Board of Water and Soil Resources pollinator account.

• Eligibility for Plates:

  • Applicants must pay a fee as specified for special plates, pay registration taxes, and comply with motor vehicle registration and driver licensing rules.

• Additional Contributions: The program allows for voluntary additional contributions above the minimum required.

• Design and Transfer:

  • The license plate design will be developed in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
  • Special plates can be transferred to another qualified vehicle owned by the original recipient for a transfer fee.

• Fee Allocation: Contributions will go to the pollinator account, while other fees collected will support the driver and vehicle services operating account.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 216B.1642, by introducing a new subdivision related to the solar pollinator program license plates.
• It proposes new coding for Minnesota Statutes chapter 168 to accommodate these changes.

Relevant Terms

solar pollinator, license plates, agrivoltaic, Board of Water and Soil Resources, pollinator account, solar site management, vehicle registration.