Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the process of acquiring road easements in Minnesota. It requires the Department of Transportation to provide public notice and detailed information about easement projects related to road construction and improvements.

Main Provisions

• Definitions: The bill defines key terms used in the process, such as "easement," "minimum standards," "public report," and "road authority."
• Justification for Easement Projects: Before acquiring an easement for road projects, the relevant road authority must ensure the project meets minimum design standards as outlined in Minnesota rules. If more land is acquired than these standards necessitate, the excess must be justified by reasons related to drainage or road safety.
• Public Reporting: The road authority must prepare a public report detailing the project scope, necessity, safety concerns, or drainage issues. The report should be clear, accessible to the general public, and free of excessive technical language.
• Public Participation: The report must be published on the road authority's website, and a minimum of 30 days must be allowed for public review and the submission of written comments.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill introduces new requirements for public reporting and justification that must be followed by any road authority before proceeding with easement acquisitions for road construction. This process emphasizes transparency and public engagement.

Relevant Terms

• Road easement
• Public report
• Minimum design standards
• Drainage
• Public hearing
• Road authority
• Transparency
• Public comment period