SF2797

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to introduce various modifications related to school buses and other specific vehicles in Minnesota. It aims to update registration rules, increase penalties for certain violations, and make changes to inspection and testing protocols. Additionally, it seeks to expand grant eligibility for buses using alternative fuels and requires related rulemaking and reporting.

Main Provisions

1. Vehicle Registration Renewal:

   • The bill modifies the motor vehicle registration renewal period for specific types of buses and commuter vans. These vehicles will now be required to renew every two years rather than annually, and adjustments are made to the tax rates based on vehicle weight.

2. Penalties for School Bus Violations:

   • Increases penalties for disregarding the stop-signal arm of a school bus, aiming to enhance safety for school children.

3. Annual Inspection Reports:

   • Institutes a requirement for an annual school bus inspection report, specifying its contents to ensure safety compliance.

4. Third-party Testing:

   • Authorizes public transit operators to conduct third-party testing for school buses, adjusting the number of tests needed to maintain their certification.

5. Grants for Alternative Fuel Buses:

   • Expands electric school bus grants to also include propane buses, encouraging the transition to cleaner energy sources.

6. Rulemaking and Reporting Requirements:

   • Mandates the development of rules and submission of reports to oversee the implementation of these changes effectively.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Changes in the frequency of registration and tax calculations for buses based on their gross weight.
• Increase in penalties related to school bus stop-signal arm law violations.
• Addition of third-party testing certifications and modifications to maintain such certifications.
• Expansion of bus grants from only electric buses to include propane-powered buses.

Relevant Terms

• School buses
• Vehicle registration
• Stop-signal arm violations
• Inspection report
• Third-party testing
• Electric buses
• Propane buses
• Alternative fuels