SF4699 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Require transportation network companies to make vehicles wheelchair accessible
AI Generated Summary
Purpose
This bill aims to improve transportation access for people with disabilities by requiring transportation network companies (TNCs) and related providers to offer wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs), establish funding and oversight for WAV services, and set standards for accessibility, nondiscrimination, and reporting.
Key Provisions and What the Bill Seeks to Accomplish
- Definitions and scope
- Clarifies terms like transportation network company (TNC) and wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), and outlines how WAVs must be equipped (e.g., ramps or lifts for nonfolding wheelchairs, mobility devices).
- Accessibility requirements and services
- TNCs must meet wheelchair accessibility goals, offer wheelchair accessible transportation services, and comply with state and federal standards for these services.
- Digital networks must be accessible to people with disabilities by July 1, 2027, following ADA digital accessibility rules.
- TNCs must provide nondiscrimination in service, not charging extra fees for disabilities, and must display fare estimates before rides are confirmed.
- Drivers must accommodate mobility devices and allow independent transfers when possible; if a device cannot be stored or transported, passengers should be connected to another accessible option.
- Nondiscrimination and reporting
- Requires a publicly available nondiscrimination policy, procedures to report complaints, and protections against discrimination based on disability or service needs.
- TNCs must report annually on accessibility metrics (e.g., wait times for WAVs, rides fulfilled/denied, and best practices) with data aggregable by city.
- Funding and accounts
- A Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Account is created to collect funds from surcharges and other sources.
- Each ride originating in Minnesota that is not accessible to wheelchair users triggers a surcharge of $0.28, with all surcharges deposited into the WAV Services Account.
- A minimum annual collection threshold ($500,000) is set; if not met, the gap is filled by transferring money from the general fund to the WAV Services Account.
- Grants and subsidies for WAVs
- Establishes a WAV Services Subsidy Program to reimburse individuals or organizations for purchasing, leasing, renting, or maintaining WAVs and related equipment.
- Grants may cover vehicle purchases/modifications, maintenance, equipment costs, driver training, and related needs.
- Eligibility requires driver’s license, I-9 verification, six months of service with the provider, and completion of disability-focused training designed by the Minnesota Council on Disability.
- Reimbursements are structured per ride for subsidized services, with funds split between organizations and drivers; special rules apply to training and licensing costs.
- Oversight and administration
- Creates the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Committee to oversee grants, set award criteria, and monitor the subsidy program; includes representatives from DOT, the Minnesota Council on Disability, disability advocates, TNCs, drivers, manufacturers, and dealers of WAVs.
- Committee duties include recommending legislative changes, reviewing program performance, and managing conflict-of-interest disclosures.
- Timeline and reporting
- Annual reporting requirements include grant awards, recipients, amounts, and how funds were used.
- The WAV subsidy program includes a separate annual reporting requirement on reimbursements.
- Onetime appropriation
- A one-time $250,000 general-fund appropriation in fiscal year 2027 to implement the WAV subsidy grant program.
How It Changes Existing Law
- Establishes a formal funding mechanism (the WAV Services Account) and a new subsidy program, funded by a per-ride surcharge and potential general fund transfers if minimum collections aren’t met.
- Adds comprehensive accessibility, nondiscrimination, and digital-accessibility requirements for TNCs, beyond current standards.
- Creates a dedicated governance body (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Committee) to oversee grants and program implementation.
- Introduces new reporting and data requirements to measure accessibility outcomes and program impact.
Implementation and Timeline
- Digital accessibility requirement for TNCs: by July 1, 2027.
- Equity data reporting: annually by October 1, detailing accessibility metrics for the prior year.
- Grants and subsidies: administered by the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Committee with annual grant program oversight and reporting.
- Funding and minimum collection: ongoing surcharge collection with annual minimum performance review; potential transfer from the general fund if needed.
Potential Impacts
- Increased availability of WAVs and improved access for riders with mobility disabilities.
- Higher operating costs for TNCs and taxicab companies due to surcharges, grant programs, and required training.
- Enhanced accountability and transparency around accessibility and nondiscrimination in ride-hailing and related services.
- New opportunities for disability-focused training, vehicle modification, and accessibility technology development.
Relevant terms - Transportation network company (TNC) - Wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) - Wheelchair accessible vehicle services account - Wheelchair accessible vehicle services subsidy program - Nondiscrimination policy - Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) digital accessibility - Surcharge (0.28 per ride) - Active fleet - Grant program and grants - Minnesota Council on Disability - Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Committee - Form I-9 Employment Verification - Driver training and licensing - Special transportation services - Nonemergency medical transportation - Service animal and nondiscrimination in services - Accessibility data reporting and equity data - Minimum collection threshold - Public complaint processes and reporting - Onetime appropriation (FY2027)
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 23, 2026 | Senate | Action | Introduction and first reading | ||
| March 23, 2026 | Senate | Action | Referred to | Transportation |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Cities must regulate small vehicle passenger service by ordinance with minimum provisions (driver qualifications, insurance, vehicle safety, periodic inspections).",
"Allows waivers of licensing fees for a transportation network company or taxicab company that maintains 7.5 percent of its active fleet as wheelchair-accessible vehicles.",
"Defines TNC in relation to 65B.472, subdivision 1.",
"Permits pedicabs/rickshaws to be equipped with an electric motor meeting the requirements for an electric-assisted bicycle under 169.011, subdivision 27, clause 3.",
"Cities may enforce the registration requirement in section 221.021 for compliant small-vehicle passenger services."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Amends Minnesota Statutes 2024 section 221.091, subdivision 2 to require cities (both statutory and home rule charter) that license and regulate small vehicle passenger service to do so by ordinance, with minimum provisions for driver qualifications, insurance, vehicle safety, and periodic inspections; allows waivers of licensing fees for a transportation network company or taxicab company that maintains a 7.5 percent wheelchair-accessible fleet; references the Transportation Network Company definition in section 65B.472, subdivision 1; and permits enforcement of registration under section 221.021 for compliant cities. It also permits pedicabs, rickshaws, or similar passenger-service vehicles to be equipped with an electric motor meeting the requirements for an electric-assisted bicycle under section 169.011, subdivision 27, clause 3.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.091",
"subdivision": "subd.2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Definitions for Transportation Network Company (TNC) and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle.",
"Clear definition of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle as a vehicle with a ramp or lift capable of transporting nonfolding motorized wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or other mobility devices."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Adds definitions necessary for the transportation network company accessibility framework, including what constitutes a transportation network company and a wheelchair accessible vehicle.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.56",
"subdivision": "subd.1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"A surcharge of 0.28 per ride originating in Minnesota that is not accessible to wheelchair users, payable monthly."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Imposes a wheelchair accessibility surcharge on eligible rides and directs proceeds to the wheelchair accessible vehicle services account.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.56",
"subdivision": "subd.2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Authority for TNCs to provide wheelchair accessible vehicle special transportation services and nonemergency medical transportation, subject to state and federal standards (including 174.30).",
"Surcharge of 0.28 per ride for these services, deposited into the wheelchair accessible vehicle services account."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Authorizes transportation network companies to provide wheelchair accessible vehicle special transportation services and nonemergency medical transportation under applicable standards.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.56",
"subdivision": "subd.3"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Digital network must be accessible to individuals with disabilities by July 1, 2027, in conformance with Americans with Disabilities Act digital accessibility rules."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Requires digital network accessibility for transportation network companies.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.56",
"subdivision": "subd.4"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"By October 1 each year, all TNCs must report accessibility metrics (e.g., ETA for wheelchair accessible vehicles, total wheelchair accessible vehicles requested, rides fulfilled, denied requests, third-party referrals, and best practices).",
"Data must be aggregable by city."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Imposes an annual equity data reporting requirement on transportation network companies.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.56",
"subdivision": "subd.5"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Nondiscrimination policy required and publicly posted; reporting process to the Department of Human Rights; prohibitions on discrimination based on disability, service animal, localities, or other protected classes.",
"Prohibits charging extra fees to individuals with disabilities or for service animals; requires accommodations for device storage; permits transfer to an alternative provider if needed; requires independent transfer options where feasible; requires fee transparency before ride confirmation."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Establishes nondiscrimination policy requirements for TNCs.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.56",
"subdivision": "subd.6"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Wheelchair accessible vehicle services account established; receives surcharge receipts and appropriations for administration, marketing, data collection, reporting, and reimbursements."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Creates the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Account within the special revenue fund.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.57",
"subdivision": "subd.1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"If annual minimum collection of 500,000 is not met from Sec. 3 (221.56, subs 2-3), funds from the general fund are transferred to the account to meet the threshold."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Minimum collection triggers for the account and potential transfers if minimums are not met.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.57",
"subdivision": "subd.2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Grants may be awarded to taxicab companies or independent contractors of TNCs with at least six months of service; goal to have 7.5 percent of active fleet wheelchair accessible; training by the Minnesota Council on Disability."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Grant eligibility for wheelchair accessible vehicle grants.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.57",
"subdivision": "subd.3"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Applications require driver's license copies, I-9 verification, and attestations of six months of service and nondiscrimination compliance."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Grant application requirements.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.57",
"subdivision": "subd.4"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Grants awarded to purchase, lease, or modify wheelchair accessible vehicles; funding allocations per vehicle and other eligible expenditures (training, licensing, technology, research, driver incentives)."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Grant administration and uses.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.57",
"subdivision": "subd.5"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Annual report by January 15 detailing grant awards and recipients."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Annual reporting related to grants.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.57",
"subdivision": "subd.6"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Appoints members: Department of Transportation, Minnesota Council on Disability, individuals with disabilities, TNC drivers, TNCs, wheelchair vehicle manufacturers, and dealers."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Establishes the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Committee (WAVSC).",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.58",
"subdivision": "subd.1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Committee operates under section 15.059; two-year terms; chair; no expiration of the committee."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Organization and tenure of WAVSC.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.58",
"subdivision": "subd.2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Members must disclose financial interests in organizations recommended for grants; statements accompany grant recommendations."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Conflict of interest provisions for WAVSC members.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.58",
"subdivision": "subd.3"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Establish grant award amounts, evaluate and award grants; recommend legislative changes; review program performance and WAVS account."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Duties of WAVSC.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.58",
"subdivision": "subd.4"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Program to reimburse individuals or organizations for wheelchair accessible vehicle services (purchase, lease, rent, or maintenance) and related uses; funds may be provided as grants, loans, rebates, or other forms."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Establishes the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Services Subsidy Program.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.59",
"subdivision": "subd.1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Contributions of 0.28 per ride by TNCs, taxicab companies, and independent contractors; monthly remittance; enforcement mechanisms for past-due contributions (license suspension, fines, or civil action)."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Program funding mechanics for subsidies.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.59",
"subdivision": "subd.2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Individuals and organizations eligible for reimbursement if meeting defined criteria (driver licensing, I-9 verification, six months of service, nondiscrimination training)."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Eligibility for subsidies.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.59",
"subdivision": "subd.3"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Applicants must provide driver licenses, I-9 verifications, and attest nondiscrimination compliance."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Application process for subsidies.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.59",
"subdivision": "subd.4"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Reimbursements issued per ride; breakdown: 0.50 to organization, 0.50 to driver; other reimbursements for training, licensing, and equipment."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Reimbursements under subsidies.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.59",
"subdivision": "subd.5"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Annual reporting by January 15 detailing reimbursements made under the section."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Annual report for subsidies.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.59",
"subdivision": "subd.6"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Provides context that cities enforcing registration obligations derived from 221.021 may apply to compliant ordinances under 221.091."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "References to enforcement of registration requirements under 221.021.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "221.021",
"subdivision": ""
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Subsection defines TNC meaning consistent with 65B.472, subdivision 1."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Cross-reference establishing the meaning of Transportation Network Company used in 221.56.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "65B.472",
"subdivision": "subd.1"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Acknowledges that special transportation services must meet state standards under section 174.30."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Reference to state standards for nonemergency medical transportation related to special transportation services.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "174.30",
"subdivision": ""
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Clause 3 of subdivision 27 provides electric-assisted bicycle requirements applicable to certain passenger-service vehicles."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Electric-assisted bicycle requirement referenced for pedicabs, rickshaws, or similar vehicles in 221.091's scope.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "169.011",
"subdivision": "subd.27, clause 3"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Nondiscrimination obligations align with the protections in 181C.06."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Reference to nondiscrimination requirements under 181C.06.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "181C.06",
"subdivision": ""
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Notes that WAVSC is organized under 15.059; subdivision 2 is not applicable in certain contexts."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Cross-reference to organizational structure and governance under 15.059.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "15.059",
"subdivision": "subd.2"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Exemption from certain administrative policies under 16B.98."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "Statement that WAVSC is not subject to certain administration policies.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "16B.98",
"subdivision": ""
}
]Progress through the legislative process
In Committee