Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to standardize safety messages displayed on changeable message signs managed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation to improve traffic safety. It seeks to ensure that the messages are clear, relevant, and do not cause visual or cognitive distractions for road users.

Main Provisions

• Definition of Terms:

  • Changeable message sign: Traffic control devices that can show various messages.
  • Commissioner: Refers to the commissioner of transportation.
  • Traffic safety campaign message: Messages aimed at informing road users about regulations, warnings, or potential dangers related to traffic safety.

• Guidance Implementation:

  • By July 1, 2025, the commissioner of transportation is required to implement standards from the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for traffic safety messages on changeable signs.

• Message Content Restrictions:

  • Messages must be relevant, simple, and avoid confusion.
  • Prohibited content includes witticisms, slang, pop culture references, or any form of communication that not all drivers might understand.

• Broader Safety Efforts:

  • The use of changeable message signs should align with larger traffic safety campaigns utilizing other media.
  • Public suggestions for message content are not permitted.

• Expiration Clause:

  • The requirements will expire once the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices is updated to incorporate these standards, and notification of this update must be provided.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill mandates that the guidelines from the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices must be specifically followed, imposing stricter rules on what types of messages are allowed on changeable message boards to avoid driver distraction.

Relevant Terms

• Traffic safety
• Changeable message sign
• Cognitive distraction
• Uniform Traffic Control Devices
• Commissioner of Transportation
• Pop culture references