SF 1675

as introduced - 91st Legislature (2019 - 2020) Posted on 02/28/2019 08:18am

A bill for an act
relating to transportation; requiring a pilot program for organic road salt additives
for protection of waters and infrastructure.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1. new text begin WATERS AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROTECTION.
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new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Implementation. new text end

new text begin As provided in this section, the commissioner of
transportation must implement a pilot program on the use of organic additives to control
ice on public roads to reduce application of salt and chemicals that contribute to the
deterioration of transportation infrastructure and to chloride pollution in lakes, rivers, and
groundwater.
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new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Program elements. new text end

new text begin At a minimum, the pilot program must:
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new text begin (1) identify and utilize methods to reduce the application of salt and chemicals through
expanded use of organic additives, including but not limited to beet juice, that promote
surface adhering and reduce the freezing point of applied substances;
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new text begin (2) examine results from expanded use of organic additives, including but not limited
to potential environmental and fiscal impacts;
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new text begin (3) develop best practices and technical guidelines to expand the use of organic additives;
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new text begin (4) convey program information and guidance to local road authorities;
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new text begin (5) use organic additives in at least five test locations, each containing (i) transportation
infrastructure that is likely to experience deterioration from application of salt and chemicals,
and (ii) a body of water at high risk of chloride pollution; and
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new text begin (6) include collaboration with at least one local road authority.
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new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Legislative report. new text end

new text begin By August 31, 2021, the commissioner must submit a report
on the pilot program to the members and staff of the legislative committees with jurisdiction
over transportation policy and finance. At a minimum, the report must summarize pilot
program activity, review results, and identify steps for increasing statewide use of organic
additives.
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new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment.
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