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SF2207 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Certain special vehicle operation authorization on roads by ordinance without a permit

Related bill: HF1832

AI Generated Summary

This bill (S.F. No. 2207) proposes amendments to Minnesota Statutes Section 169.045 regarding the operation of certain special vehicles—such as motorized golf carts, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility task vehicles (UTVs), and mini trucks—on designated roadways.

Key Provisions:

  1. Local Authority to Allow Vehicle Operation:

    • Counties, cities, and towns may pass ordinances to authorize the operation of these vehicles on specific roadways under their jurisdiction without requiring a permit.

  2. Permit Regulations:

    • If an ordinance requires a permit, it must outline the permit application process and evidence of insurance.
    • Permits can be issued for up to three years and can be revoked if the operator is deemed unsafe.

  3. Operating Conditions:

    • Vehicles may be operated only from sunrise to sunset unless they have headlights, taillights, and brake lights.
    • Operation is not allowed in dangerous weather or low-visibility conditions unless during an emergency.

  4. Mandatory Safety Equipment:

    • Golf carts must display a slow-moving vehicle emblem.
    • Mini trucks must have headlights, taillights, turn signals, mirrors, a windshield, seat belts, and a parking brake.

  5. Traffic Law Compliance:

    • Operators must follow all applicable traffic laws unless specifically exempted.

  6. Crossing Intersecting Streets/Highways:

    • Permitted vehicle operators may cross intersecting roads while driving on designated routes.

  7. License and Equipment Exemptions:

    • Mini truck operators must comply with state driver’s licensing requirements.
    • Certain general vehicle equipment laws do not apply to golf carts, ATVs, and UTVs, except for specific safety requirements.

  8. Insurance Requirements:

    • If private insurance is unavailable, operators may obtain coverage through the Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan at a state-determined rate.

Impact:

The bill simplifies and standardizes regulations for these special vehicles while granting local governments flexibility to regulate their usage. It clarifies insurance options for operators and revises technical and legal requirements, ensuring safety while allowing more widespread use of these vehicles on local roads.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 05, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 05, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 05, 2025HouseFloorActionReferred toTransportation
March 05, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toTransportation
March 23, 2025SenateFloorActionAuthor stricken

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "References new vehicle types in ordinance designation."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Defines the meaning of 'all-terrain vehicle' used in section 169.045 regarding special vehicle use on roadways.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "84.92",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Mini trucks are now explicitly defined for roadway use."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Provides the definition of 'mini truck' for the purposes of vehicle operation authorizations.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "169.011",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 40a"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Clarifies insurance compliance requirements for permits."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Outlines the insurance evidence requirements for obtaining a vehicle operation permit.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "65B.48",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 5"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Mandates slow-moving vehicle emblem for golf carts."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Specifies the display of slow-moving vehicle emblems on motorized golf carts.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "169.522",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Establishes equipment exemptions for authorized vehicles."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Relates to equipment requirements that apply to vehicles, establishing exceptions for certain special vehicles.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "169.70",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Option to purchase insurance through state plan."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Refers to the Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan for obtaining liability insurance.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "65B.01",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Ensures no-fault coverage is accessible through state plan."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Part of the statutory provisions for purchasing no-fault coverage through the Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "65B.12",
    "subdivision": ""
  }
]

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