SF2313 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Municipal consent requirement for the installation of J-turns

AI Generated Summary

This bill proposes changes to Minnesota transportation laws regarding the installation of J-turn intersections. The key provisions of the bill include:

  1. Definition of J-turns: The bill formally defines a J-turn as an intersection design that eliminates direct left turns and through movements from minor cross streets. Instead, vehicles from the minor road must first turn right, then make a U-turn at a designated location to continue in their intended direction.

  2. Municipal Consent Requirement: The bill mandates that municipal governments must provide consent before any J-turn can be installed within their jurisdiction. This alters the current process by requiring local government approval for such highway adjustments.

  3. Projects Requiring Review: The bill specifies that projects involving J-turn installation will be subject to the same review processes as other highway modifications that affect traffic capacity, access, or require land acquisition.

  4. Exclusion from Safety Measures: The bill explicitly states that J-turns are not classified as traffic safety measures, distinguishing them from other traffic control devices or safety-related installations that the state transportation commissioner has the authority to implement without municipal approval.

Overall, the bill seeks to give local municipalities more control over J-turn installations by requiring their consent before implementation.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 09, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 09, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 09, 2025HouseFloorActionReferred toTransportation
March 09, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toTransportation

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Explicit mention of Jturns in project review requirements."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill modifies requirements for reviewing certain transportation projects under section 161.163.",
      "modified": [
        ""
      ]
    },
    "citation": "161.163",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This legislation clarifies traffic safety measures under section 161.163.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies that Jturns are not considered safety measures."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "161.163",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  }
]