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Key: (1) language to be deleted (2) new language

                            CHAPTER 230-S.F.No. 1762 
                  An act relating to transportation; modifying state 
                  contract requirements; allowing department of 
                  transportation to contract for land surveying; 
                  clarifying requirements for notaries and filing 
                  corrections to maps and plats relating to highways; 
                  providing for transfer of certain revolving loan 
                  accounts to transportation revolving loan fund; 
                  correcting trunk highway route description; modifying 
                  filing requirements for highway route location orders; 
                  increasing dollar amount for contracts negotiated by 
                  commissioner of transportation for highway 
                  construction or maintenance work; modifying provisions 
                  for estimates and agency costs relating to county 
                  state-aid highway and municipal state-aid street 
                  funds; abolishing provision that restricted evidence 
                  of use of headgear by motorcyclist to only the 
                  question of damages for head injuries; authorizing 
                  commissioner of transportation to determine dates for 
                  seasonal load restrictions; modifying provision 
                  requiring certification for disbursement from state 
                  transportation fund; requiring commissioner of 
                  transportation to be responsible for design, 
                  construction, and operation of commuter rail; 
                  establishing design approval process for commuter 
                  rail; creating commuter rail corridor coordinating 
                  committee; changing period of hours of service 
                  exemption for drivers transporting sugar beets; 
                  requiring petroleum tank truck driver to be at least 
                  18 years old; authorizing commissioner to convey 
                  excess rail bank corridor land to state agency or 
                  political subdivision; modifying provisions governing 
                  state grants for local airports; restricting liability 
                  related to land acquired by municipality for highway 
                  purposes; modifying powers and duties of counties with 
                  respect to light rail and commuter rail transit 
                  planning; modifying deadlines for metropolitan transit 
                  performance evaluation reports by metropolitan 
                  council; establishing priority order for light rail 
                  transit construction; requiring metropolitan council 
                  to develop regional master plan for transit; making 
                  technical corrections; appropriating money; amending 
                  Minnesota Statutes 1998, sections 16C.05, subdivision 
                  2; 16C.09; 160.085, subdivisions 1 and 1a; 161.04, 
                  subdivision 3, and by adding a subdivision; 161.115, 
                  subdivision 164; 161.16, subdivision 2; 161.32, 
                  subdivision 2; 162.06, subdivisions 1, 2, and 6; 
                  162.12, subdivisions 1, 2, and 5; 169.87, subdivision 
                  2; 174.02, by adding a subdivision; 174.50, 
                  subdivision 5; 221.0314, subdivision 9a; 221.033, by 
                  adding a subdivision; 222.63, subdivision 4; 360.0151, 
                  subdivision 2; 360.032, subdivision 1a; 360.305, 
                  subdivision 4; 398A.04, subdivisions 1, 2, and 9; 
                  446A.085, subdivisions 3 and 6; 466.03, by adding a 
                  subdivision; 473.1466; 473.399; 473.3993, subdivision 
                  3; and 473.3994, subdivisions 3, 4, and 10; Laws 1998, 
                  chapter 404, section 17, subdivision 3; proposing 
                  coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 174; 
                  repealing Minnesota Statutes 1998, sections 169.832, 
                  subdivision 13; 169.974, subdivision 6; 473.3994, 
                  subdivision 12; and 473.3998. 
        BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA: 
           Section 1.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 16C.05, 
        subdivision 2, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 2.  [CREATION AND VALIDITY OF CONTRACTS.] (a) A 
        contract is not valid and the state is not bound by it unless: 
           (1) it has first been executed by the head of the agency or 
        a delegate who is a party to the contract; 
           (2) it has been approved by the commissioner; 
           (3) it has been approved by the attorney general or a 
        delegate as to form and execution; 
           (4) the accounting system shows an obligation in an expense 
        budget or encumbrance for the amount of the contract liability; 
        and 
           (5) the combined contract and amendments shall not exceed 
        five years, without specific, written approval by the 
        commissioner according to established policy, procedures, and 
        standards, or unless otherwise provided for by law.  The term of 
        the original contract must not exceed two years unless the 
        commissioner determines that a longer duration is in the best 
        interest of the state.  
           (b) Grants, interagency agreements, purchase orders, and 
        annual plans need not, in the discretion of the commissioner and 
        attorney general, require the signature of the commissioner 
        and/or the attorney general. 
           (c) A fully executed copy of every contract must be kept on 
        file at the contracting agency. 
           Sec. 2.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 16C.09, is 
        amended to read: 
           16C.09 [PROCEDURE FOR SERVICE CONTRACTS.] 
           (a) Before entering into or approving a service contract, 
        the commissioner must determine, at least, that: 
           (1) no current state employee is able and available to 
        perform the services called for by the contract; 
           (2) the work to be performed under the contract is 
        necessary to the agency's achievement of its statutory 
        responsibilities and there is statutory authority to enter into 
        the contract; 
           (3) the contract will not establish an employment 
        relationship between the state or the agency and any persons 
        performing under the contract; 
           (4) the contractor and agents are not employees of the 
        state; 
           (5) the contracting agency has specified a satisfactory 
        method of evaluating and using the results of the work to be 
        performed; and 
           (6) the combined contract and amendments will not exceed 
        five years, without specific, written approval by the 
        commissioner according to established policy, procedures, and 
        standards, or unless otherwise provided for by law.  The term of 
        the original contract must not exceed two years, unless the 
        commissioner determines that a longer duration is in the best 
        interest of the state.  
           (b) For purposes of paragraph (a), clause (1), employees 
        are available if qualified and: 
           (i) (1) are already doing the work in question; or 
           (ii) (2) are on layoff status in classes that can do the 
        work in question. 
        An employee is not available if the employee is doing other 
        work, is retired, or has decided not to do the work in question. 
           Sec. 3.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 160.085, 
        subdivision 1, is amended to read: 
           Subdivision 1.  [RECORDING MAP OR PLAT; CERTIFICATION.] (a) 
        In order to facilitate the acquisition of right-of-way required 
        for highways, state and county road authorities may file for 
        record in the office of the county recorder or registrar of 
        titles in the county in which right-of-way is to be acquired, 
        such orders or resolutions, as required by law, in the form of 
        maps or plats showing right-of-way by course distance, bearing 
        and arc length, and other rights or interests in land to be 
        acquired as the road authority determines necessary.  Said map 
        or plat shall show by outline all tracts or parcels of land 
        affected by the proposed acquisition.  
           (b) The map or plat, as to trunk highways, shall be 
        certified by the commissioner of transportation or the 
        commissioner's designated assistant and any by a licensed land 
        surveyor in the employ of the state as to trunk highways.  
           (c) The map or plat shall be certified as to county 
        state-aid highways and county highways by the chair of the 
        county board or the county engineer or the engineer's designated 
        assistant, and by a licensed land surveyor in the employ of the 
        county.  
           (d) The map or plat so certified is entitled to record 
        without compliance with the provisions of chapter 505.  Neither 
        a witness nor an acknowledgment is required for a map or plat 
        certified under this subdivision.  Any amendments, 
        alterations, corrections, rescissions or vacations of such 
        orders, resolutions, maps or plats so filed shall be entitled to 
        record in like manner.  The recorder or registrar may make 
        suitable notations on the appropriate map or plat affected by an 
        amendment, alteration, correction, rescission or vacation to 
        direct the attention of anyone examining the record to the 
        proper map or plat.  
           Sec. 4.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 160.085, 
        subdivision 1a, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 1a.  [AMENDING RECORDED MAP OR PLAT.] If an error on 
        a map or plat incorrectly defines the intended acquisition, but 
        does not affect any rights of interest to be acquired, a 
        certificate may be prepared stating what the defect is, what the 
        correct information is, and which map or plat the certificate 
        affects.  The certificate shall be signed by a licensed land 
        surveyor in the employ of the state or county.  The certificate 
        shall be filed for record in the office of the county recorder 
        or registrar of titles in the county where the map or plat is 
        filed.  When so filed the certificate shall amend the map or 
        plat.  The recorder or registrar may make suitable notations on 
        the map or plat to which the certificate refers to direct the 
        attention of anyone examining the map or plat to the record of 
        the certificate. 
           Sec. 5.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 161.04, 
        subdivision 3, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 3.  [TRUNK HIGHWAY REVOLVING LOAN ACCOUNT.] A trunk 
        highway revolving loan account is created in the trunk highway 
        fund transportation revolving loan fund under section 446A.085.  
        The commissioner may transfer money from the trunk highway fund 
        to the trunk highway revolving loan account.  Money in the 
        account may be used to make loans.  Funds in the trunk highway 
        revolving loan account may not be used for any toll facilities 
        project or congestion-pricing project and may be used only for 
        trunk highway purposes and repayments and interest from loans of 
        those funds must be credited to the trunk highway revolving loan 
        account in the trunk highway transportation revolving loan 
        fund.  Money in the trunk highway revolving loan account is 
        annually appropriated to the commissioner and does not lapse.  
        Interest earned from investment of money in this account must be 
        deposited in the trunk highway revolving loan account. 
           Sec. 6.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 161.04, is 
        amended by adding a subdivision to read: 
           Subd. 4.  [LOANS FOR TRUNK HIGHWAY PROJECTS.] Loans from 
        the transportation revolving loan fund to the commissioner for 
        trunk highway projects must be deposited in the trunk highway 
        fund.  Loan proceeds are appropriated annually to the 
        commissioner and do not lapse.  Principal and interest payments 
        on the loan proceeds must be paid from the debt service account 
        and are considered a long-term obligation of the trunk highway 
        fund. 
           Sec. 7.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 161.115, 
        subdivision 164, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 164.  [ROUTE NO. 233.] Beginning at a point in 
        Section 35, Township 135 North, Range 26 28 West; thence 
        extending in a general southerly direction to a point on Route 
        No. 18 at or near Brainerd. 
           Sec. 8.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 161.16, 
        subdivision 2, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 2.  [DESIGNATION AND LOCATION BY ORDER.] The 
        commissioner shall by order or orders designate such temporary 
        trunk highways, and on determining the definite location of any 
        trunk highway or portion thereof, the same shall also be 
        designated by order or orders.  The definite location of such 
        highway or portion thereof may be in the form of a map or plat 
        showing the lands and interests in lands required for trunk 
        highway purposes.  Formal determination or order if by map or 
        plat, shall be certified by the commissioner of transportation 
        on said map or plat.  The commissioner may, by similar order or 
        orders, change the definite location of any trunk highway 
        between the fixed termini, as fixed by law, when such changes 
        are necessary in the interest of safety and convenient public 
        travel.  The commissioner shall file certified copies of such 
        orders with the county auditor of the county wherein such 
        highways are located.  Such certified copies shall become 
        maintain a file of these orders as permanent records and shall 
        not be removed from the office or offices wherein filed. 
           Sec. 9.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 161.32, 
        subdivision 2, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 2.  [DIRECT NEGOTIATION.] In cases where the 
        estimated cost of construction work or maintenance work does not 
        exceed $75,000 $150,000, the commissioner may enter into a 
        contract for the work by direct negotiation, by obtaining two or 
        more quotations for the work, and without advertising for bids 
        or otherwise complying with the requirements of competitive 
        bidding if the total contractual obligation of the state for the 
        directly negotiated contract or contracts on any single project 
        does not exceed $75,000 $150,000.  All quotations obtained shall 
        be kept on file for a period of at least one year after receipt 
        of the quotation. 
           Sec. 10.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 162.06, 
        subdivision 1, is amended to read: 
           Subdivision 1.  [ESTIMATE.] On or before the second Tuesday 
        of January By December 15 of each year the commissioner shall 
        estimate the probable sum amount of money that will accrue be 
        available to the county state-aid highway fund during the first 
        six months of each that fiscal year ending June 30.  To such 
        estimated amounts the commissioner shall add the sum of money 
        already accrued in the county state-aid highway fund for the 
        last preceding six-month period ending December 31 of each year, 
        adjusted to reflect the amount by which The amount available 
        must be based on actual receipts for the preceding January 1 to 
        June 30 were different from estimated receipts from July 1 
        through November 30, the unallocated fund balance, and the 
        projected receipts for the remainder of the fiscal year.  The 
        total of such sums available, except for deductions to be first 
        made as provided herein, shall be apportioned by the 
        commissioner to the several counties as hereinafter provided. 
           Sec. 11.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 162.06, 
        subdivision 2, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 2.  [ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF DEPARTMENT.] From the 
        total of such sums the commissioner shall deduct A sum equal 
        to of 1-1/2 percent of the total sum.  The sum so deducted shall 
        be set aside in a separate account and shall be deducted from 
        the total amount available in the county state-aid highway fund, 
        set aside in a separate account, and used for administrative 
        costs incurred by the state transportation department in 
        carrying out the provisions relating to the county state-aid 
        highway system.  On the 31st day of December of each year any 
        money remaining in the account not needed for administrative 
        costs shall be transferred to the county state-aid highway fund. 
           Sec. 12.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 162.06, 
        subdivision 6, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 6.  [COUNTY STATE-AID HIGHWAY REVOLVING LOAN 
        ACCOUNT.] A county state-aid highway revolving loan account is 
        created in the county state-aid highway transportation revolving 
        loan fund.  The commissioner may transfer to the account the 
        amount allocated under section 162.065.  Money in the account 
        may be used to make loans.  Funds in the county state-aid 
        highway revolving loan account may be used only for aid in the 
        construction, improvement, and maintenance of county state-aid 
        highways.  Funds in the account may not be used for any toll 
        facilities project or congestion-pricing project.  Repayments 
        and interest from loans from the county state-aid highway 
        revolving loan account must be credited to that account.  Money 
        in the account is annually appropriated to the commissioner and 
        does not lapse.  Interest earned from investment of money in 
        this account must be deposited in the county state-aid highway 
        revolving loan account. 
           Sec. 13.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 162.12, 
        subdivision 1, is amended to read: 
           Subdivision 1.  [ESTIMATE OF ACCRUALS.] On or before the 
        second Tuesday of January By December 15 of each year the 
        commissioner shall estimate the probable sum amount of money 
        that will accrue be available to the municipal state-aid street 
        fund during the first six months of each year ending June 
        30 that fiscal year.  To the estimated amount the commissioner 
        shall add the sum of money already accrued in the municipal 
        state-aid street fund for the last preceding six-month period 
        ending December 31, adjusted to reflect the amount by which The 
        amount available is based on actual receipts for the preceding 
        January 1 to June 30 were different from estimated receipts from 
        July 1 through November 30, the unallocated fund balance, and 
        the projected receipts for the remainder of the fiscal year.  
        The total of such sums available, except for deductions to be 
        first made as provided herein, shall be apportioned by the 
        commissioner to the cities having a population of 5,000 or more 
        as hereinafter provided. 
           Sec. 14.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 162.12, 
        subdivision 2, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 2.  [ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF DEPARTMENT.] From the 
        total of such sums the commissioner, each year, shall deduct A 
        sum of money equal to one and one-half 1-1/2 percent of the 
        total sums.  The sum so shall be deducted shall be from the 
        total available in the municipal state-aid street fund, set 
        aside in a separate account, and shall be used for 
        administration costs incurred by the state transportation 
        department in carrying out the provisions relating to the 
        municipal state-aid street system.  On the 31st day of December 
        of each year, any money remaining in the account not needed for 
        administrative costs shall be transferred to the municipal 
        state-aid street fund. 
           Sec. 15.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 162.12, 
        subdivision 5, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 5.  [MUNICIPAL STATE-AID STREET REVOLVING LOAN 
        ACCOUNT.] A municipal state-aid street revolving loan account is 
        created in the municipal state-aid street transportation 
        revolving loan fund.  The commissioner may transfer to the 
        account the amount allocated under section 162.125.  Money in 
        the account may be used to make loans.  Funds in the municipal 
        state-aid street revolving loan account may be used only for aid 
        in the construction, improvement, and maintenance of municipal 
        state-aid streets.  Funds in the account may not be used for any 
        toll facilities project or congestion-pricing project.  
        Repayments and interest from loans from the municipal state-aid 
        street revolving loan account must be credited to that account.  
        Money in the account is annually appropriated to the 
        commissioner and does not lapse.  Interest earned from 
        investment of money in this account must be deposited in the 
        municipal state-aid street revolving loan account. 
           Sec. 16.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 169.87, 
        subdivision 2, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 2.  [SEASONAL LOAD RESTRICTIONS.] Except for portland 
        cement concrete roads, from March 20 to May 15 of between the 
        dates set by the commissioner of transportation each year, the 
        weight on any single axle shall not exceed five tons on a county 
        or highway, town road, or city street that has not been 
        restricted as provided in subdivision 1.  The gross weight on 
        consecutive axles shall not exceed the gross weight allowed in 
        section 169.825 multiplied by a factor of five divided by nine.  
        This reduction shall not apply to the gross vehicle weight. 
           Sec. 17.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 174.02, is 
        amended by adding a subdivision to read: 
           Subd. 7.  [LOANS TO COMMISSIONER.] The commissioner of 
        transportation may apply for and receive loans, as defined in 
        section 446A.085, subdivision 1, paragraph (d), from the 
        transportation revolving loan fund created in section 446A.085, 
        and may enter into agreements for the repayments of the loans. 
           Sec. 18.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 174.50, 
        subdivision 5, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 5.  [CERTIFICATION AND DISBURSAL FOR PROJECT OF 
        POLITICAL SUBDIVISION.] Before disbursement of an appropriation 
        made from the fund to the commissioner of transportation for 
        grants to subdivisions of the state, the commissioner shall 
        certify to the commissioner of finance: 
           (1) that the project for which the grant is made has been 
        reviewed as provided in subdivision 4; 
           (2) that the project conforms to the program authorized by 
        the appropriation law and rules adopted by the department of 
        transportation consistent therewith; and 
           (3) that the financing of any estimated cost of the project 
        in excess of the amount of the grant is assured by the 
        appropriation of the proceeds of bonds or other funds of the 
        subdivision, or by a grant from an agency of the federal 
        government, within the amount of funds then appropriated to that 
        agency and allocated by it to projects within the state, and by 
        an irrevocable undertaking, in a resolution of the governing 
        body of the subdivision, to use all funds so made available 
        exclusively for the project, and to pay any additional amount by 
        which the cost exceeds the estimate through appropriation to the 
        construction fund of additional funds or the proceeds of 
        additional bonds to be issued by the subdivision. 
           Sec. 19.  [174.80] [DEFINITIONS.] 
           Subdivision 1.  [TERMS.] For the purposes of sections 
        174.80 to 174.90, the terms defined in this section have the 
        meanings given them. 
           Subd. 2.  [ADVANCED CORRIDOR PLAN.] "Advanced corridor plan"
        means a commuter rail plan that: 
           (1) contains a physical design component that identifies 
        the physical design of facilities, including: 
           (i) location, length, and termini of routes; 
           (ii) maintenance facility locations; 
           (iii) safety improvements; 
           (iv) station locations and design; and 
           (v) related park and ride, parking, and other 
        transportation facilities; 
           (2) specifies track and signal improvements; 
           (3) addresses handicapped access; 
           (4) specifies intermodal coordination and connections with 
        bus and light rail transit operation and routes; 
           (5) projects ridership, capital costs, operating costs, and 
        revenues; 
           (6) identifies sources of funds for operating subsidies and 
        funding for final design, construction, and operation; 
           (7) describes an implementation method; 
           (8) describes a plan for public involvement and public 
        information; 
           (9) defines anticipated agreements with the railroads; and 
           (10) addresses land use impacts. 
        The preliminary design plan may include the draft environmental 
        impact statement for the proposed commuter rail facilities. 
           Subd. 3.  [PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING PLAN.] "Preliminary 
        engineering plan" means a commuter rail plan that includes those 
        items in the advanced corridor plan that relate to facilities 
        proposed for construction, but with additional detail and 
        specificity in satisfaction of applicable environmental 
        requirements. 
           Subd. 4.  [FINAL DESIGN PLAN.] "Final design plan" means a 
        commuter rail plan that includes the items in the advanced 
        corridor plan and the preliminary engineering plan, but with 
        additional detail and specificity as needed for construction and 
        operation. 
           Sec. 20.  [174.82] [COMMISSIONER'S DUTIES.] 
           The commissioner shall be responsible for all aspects of 
        planning, developing, constructing, operating, and maintaining 
        commuter rail, including system planning, advanced corridor 
        planning, preliminary engineering, final design, construction, 
        negotiating with railroads, and developing financial and 
        operating plans.  The commissioner may enter into a memorandum 
        of understanding or agreement with a public or private entity, 
        including a regional railroad authority, a joint powers board, 
        and a railroad, to carry out these activities. 
           Sec. 21.  [174.84] [COMMUTER RAIL SYSTEM PLANNING.] 
           Subdivision 1.  [GENERAL PLAN REQUIREMENTS.] By January 15, 
        2000, the commissioner shall adopt a commuter rail system plan 
        to ensure that if commuter rail facilities are acquired, 
        developed, constructed, owned, and operated in Minnesota, these 
        activities will be done in an efficient, cost-effective manner, 
        and in coordination with buses and other transportation modes 
        and facilities.  The commissioner shall consult with affected 
        regional railroad authorities and may incorporate into its plan 
        elements of the plans of regional railroad authorities in order 
        to avoid duplication of efforts.  The commissioner may 
        periodically update the system plan. 
           Subd. 2.  [APPROVAL OF COMMUTER RAIL SYSTEM PLAN.] The 
        commuter rail system plan must be approved by metropolitan 
        planning organizations in areas in which commuter rail will be 
        located before the commissioner may begin final design of 
        commuter rail facilities.  Following approval of the plan, the 
        commissioner shall act in conformity with the plan.  The 
        commissioner shall ensure that final design plans are consistent 
        with the commuter rail plan. 
           Subd. 3.  [ENGINEERING STANDARDS.] The plan must include 
        engineering standards that provide for integrated operation of 
        all commuter rail equipment, facilities, and services, including 
        security, station design parameters, fare box systems, and 
        safety. 
           Subd. 4.  [INTEGRATION OF SYSTEM.] The commissioner and 
        metropolitan planning organizations shall ensure that if 
        commuter rail facilities are planned, designed, and implemented 
        in Minnesota, they will be planned, designed, and implemented in 
        such a way as to move transit users to, from, and within the 
        metropolitan area, and to provide a unified, integrated, and 
        efficient multimodal transportation system with rail transit 
        lines that interface with each other and with other 
        transportation facilities. 
           Sec. 22.  [174.86] [COMMUTER RAIL PLAN; REVIEW.] 
           Subdivision 1.  [ADVANCED CORRIDOR PLAN; PUBLIC 
        HEARING.] Before a final design plan is prepared for commuter 
        rail facilities, the commissioner must hold a public hearing on 
        the physical design component of the advanced corridor plan.  
        The commissioner must provide appropriate public notice of the 
        hearing and publicity to ensure that affected parties have an 
        opportunity to present their views at the hearing.  The 
        commissioner shall summarize the proceedings and testimony and 
        maintain the record of a hearing held under this subdivision, 
        including any written statements submitted. 
           Subd. 2.  [PHYSICAL DESIGN COMPONENT; LOCAL PARTICIPATION.] 
        At least 30 days before the hearing under subdivision 1, the 
        commissioner shall submit the physical design component of the 
        advanced corridor plan to the governing body of each statutory 
        and home rule charter city, county, and town in which the route 
        is to be located.  Within 45 days after the hearing under 
        subdivision 1, the city, county, or town shall review and 
        comment on the plan.  Within 45 days of the hearing, a city or 
        town shall approve or disapprove the location and design of the 
        station to be located in the city or town.  A city or town that 
        disapproves shall describe specific amendments to the plan that, 
        if adopted, would cause the city or town to withdraw its 
        disapproval.  Failure to comment in writing within 45 days after 
        the hearing is deemed to be accepted unless an extension of time 
        is agreed to by the metropolitan planning organization and the 
        commissioner of transportation. 
           Subd. 3.  [MODIFICATION OF ADVANCED CORRIDOR PLAN.] After 
        the hearing under subdivision 1, and after the receipt of 
        comment under subdivision 2, the commissioner may modify the 
        advanced corridor plan. 
           Subd. 4.  [ADVANCED CORRIDOR PLAN; METROPOLITAN PLANNING 
        ORGANIZATION REVIEW.] Before constructing commuter rail 
        facilities, the commissioner shall submit the advanced corridor 
        plan to each metropolitan planning organization in which the 
        route is to be located.  The metropolitan planning organization 
        shall hold a hearing on the plan allowing the commissioner, 
        local governmental units, and other persons to present their 
        views as to whether the plan is consistent with the metropolitan 
        planning organization's development guide.  Within 60 days after 
        the hearing, the metropolitan planning organization shall review 
        the plan submitted by the commissioner to determine whether it 
        is consistent with the development guide.  If the plan is 
        consistent with the development guide, the metropolitan planning 
        organization shall approve it.  If the plan is not consistent 
        with the development guide, the metropolitan planning 
        organization shall submit to the commissioner proposed 
        amendments to the plan to make it consistent with the 
        development guide.  The commissioner shall incorporate the 
        proposed amendments into the final design plan. 
           Subd. 5.  [COMMUTER RAIL CORRIDOR COORDINATING 
        COMMITTEE.] (a) A commuter rail corridor coordinating committee 
        shall be established to advise the commissioner on issues 
        relating to the alternatives analysis, environmental review, 
        advanced corridor planning, preliminary engineering, final 
        design, implementation method, construction of commuter rail, 
        public involvement, land use, service, and safety.  The commuter 
        rail corridor coordinating committee shall consist of: 
           (1) one member representing each significant funding 
        partner in whose jurisdiction the line or lines are located; 
           (2) one member appointed by each county in which the 
        corridors are located; 
           (3) one member appointed by each city in which advanced 
        corridor plans indicate that a station may be located; 
           (4) two members appointed by the commissioner, one of whom 
        shall be designated by the commissioner as the chair of the 
        committee; 
           (5) one member appointed by each metropolitan planning 
        organization through which the commuter rail line may pass; and 
           (6) one member appointed by the president of the University 
        of Minnesota, if a designated corridor provides direct service 
        to the university. 
           (b) A joint powers board existing on April 1, 1999, 
        consisting of local governments along a commuter rail corridor, 
        shall perform the functions set forth in paragraph (a) in place 
        of the committee. 
           Sec. 23.  [174.88] [COMMUTER RAIL FUNDING.] 
           The commissioner, in cooperation with appropriate 
        metropolitan planning organizations, may apply for funding from 
        federal, state, regional, local, and private sources for 
        commuter rail facility construction, operation, implementation, 
        maintenance, and improvement. 
           Sec. 24.  [174.90] [COMMUTER RAIL OPERATION.] 
           The commissioner may contract for operation of commuter 
        rail facilities with the metropolitan council or other public or 
        private entities and shall commence revenue service after an 
        appropriate period of start-up to ensure satisfactory 
        performance.  The commissioner shall coordinate with transit 
        providers to ensure integration of the commuter rail system with 
        bus and light rail transit service to avoid duplication of 
        service and to ensure the greatest access to commuter rail lines 
        in suburban and urban areas. 
           Sec. 25.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 221.0314, 
        subdivision 9a, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 9a.  [HOURS OF SERVICE EXEMPTIONS.] The federal 
        regulations incorporated in subdivision 9 for maximum driving 
        and on-duty time do not apply to drivers engaged in the 
        interstate or intrastate transportation of: 
           (1) agricultural commodities or farm supplies for 
        agricultural purposes in Minnesota during the planting and 
        harvesting seasons from March 15 to December 15 of each year; or 
           (2) sugar beets during the harvesting season for sugar 
        beets from September 1 to March May 15 of each year; 
        if the transportation is limited to an area within a 
        100-air-mile radius from the source of the commodities or the 
        distribution point for the farm supplies. 
           Sec. 26.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 221.033, is 
        amended by adding a subdivision to read: 
           Subd. 2c.  [AGE OF PETROLEUM TANK TRUCK DRIVER.] A driver 
        of a motorized tank truck vehicle having a capacity of less than 
        3,500 gallons, who is engaged in the intrastate transportation 
        of petroleum products, must be at least 18 years of age. 
           Sec. 27.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 222.63, 
        subdivision 4, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 4.  [DISPOSITION PERMITTED.] (a) The commissioner may 
        lease any rail line or right-of-way held in the state rail bank 
        or enter into an agreement with any person for the operation of 
        any rail line or right-of-way for any of the purposes set forth 
        in subdivision 2 in accordance with a fee schedule to be 
        developed by the commissioner. 
           (b) The commissioner may convey any rail line or 
        right-of-way, for consideration or for no consideration and upon 
        other terms as the commissioner may determine to be in the 
        public interest, to any other state agency or to a governmental 
        subdivision of the state having power by law to utilize it for 
        any of the purposes set forth in subdivision 2. 
           (c) The commissioner may convey a portion of previously 
        acquired rail bank right-of-way to a state agency or 
        governmental subdivision when the commissioner determines that: 
           (1) the portion to be conveyed is in excess of that needed 
        for the purposes stated in subdivision 2; 
           (2) the conveyance is upon terms and conditions agreed upon 
        by both the commissioner and the state agency or governmental 
        subdivision; 
           (3) after the sale, the rail bank corridor will continue to 
        meet the future public and commercial transportation and 
        transmission needs of the state; and 
           (4) the conveyance will not reduce the width of the rail 
        bank corridor to less than 50 feet. 
           Proceeds from a sale shall be deposited in the rail bank 
        maintenance account described in subdivision 8. 
           Sec. 28.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 360.0151, 
        subdivision 2, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 2.  [GRANTS AUTHORIZED.] (a) The commissioner may 
        make air service marketing grants to political subdivisions that 
        own and operate airports designated by order of the commissioner 
        as key airports.  The commissioner shall make a project 
        agreement with each political subdivision receiving a grant 
        under this section that provides for: 
           (1) a detailed description of the project for which the 
        grant is provided; 
           (2) a schedule of the project; and 
           (3) the division of costs of the project between the state 
        and the recipient. 
           (b) Payments by the commissioner under a project agreement 
        may only be made to reimburse local costs already incurred. 
           Sec. 29.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 360.032, 
        subdivision 1a, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 1a.  [MUNICIPALITY MAY ACQUIRE OR MOVE AIRPORT 
        PROPERTY; REIMBURSEMENT.] A municipality may exercise the powers 
        set forth in this subdivision solely for the purpose of 
        assisting the relocation of air navigation facilities, 
        structures, and other property incidental to airport operations, 
        which are located at an airport owned or formerly owned by the 
        municipality. 
           A municipality may acquire air navigation facilities, 
        structures and other property incidental to airport operations, 
        which are located at an airport owned or formerly owned by the 
        municipality.  In lieu of such acquisition, the municipality may 
        move and relocate such property to another public airport.  The 
        manner of acquisition of such property shall be in accordance 
        with subdivision 2.  The municipality may expend its funds to 
        pay for the costs of such acquisition, moving and relocation. 
        The commissioner may pay a portion of such acquisition, moving 
        and relocation costs in accordance with the provisions of 
        section 360.305, subdivision 4, clause (2) paragraph (b) or (c). 
           Sec. 30.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 360.305, 
        subdivision 4, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 4.  [COSTS ALLOCATED; LOCAL CONTRIBUTION; HANGAR 
        CONSTRUCTION REVOLVING ACCOUNT.] (1) (a) Except as otherwise 
        provided in this subdivision, the commissioner of transportation 
        shall require as a condition of assistance by the state that the 
        political subdivision, municipality, or public corporation make 
        a substantial contribution to the cost of the construction, 
        improvement, maintenance, or operation, these costs are referred 
        to as project costs of the airport, in connection with which the 
        assistance of the state is sought.  These costs are referred to 
        as project costs.  
           (2) (b) For any airport, whether key, intermediate or 
        landing strip, where only state and local funds are to be used, 
        the contribution shall be not less than one-fifth of the sum of: 
           (a) (1) the project costs, 
           (b) (2) acquisition costs of the land and clear zones, 
        which are referred to as "acquisition costs." 
           (c) For any airport where federal, state and local funds 
        are to be used, the contribution shall not be less than 
        one-tenth of the sum of the project costs and acquisition costs. 
           (3) (d) The commissioner may pay the total cost of radio 
        and navigational aids. 
           (4) (e) Notwithstanding clause (2) paragraph (b) or (c), 
        the commissioner may pay all of the project costs of a new 
        landing strip, but not an intermediate airport or key airport, 
        or may pay an amount equal to the federal funds granted and used 
        for a new landing strip plus all of the remaining project costs; 
        but the total amount paid by the commissioner for the project 
        costs of a new landing strip, unless specifically authorized by 
        an act appropriating funds for the new landing strip, shall not 
        exceed $200,000. 
           (5) (f) Notwithstanding clause (2) paragraph (b) or (c), 
        the commissioner may pay all the project costs for research and 
        development projects, including, but not limited to noise 
        abatement; provided that in no event shall the sums expended 
        under this clause paragraph exceed five percent of the amount 
        appropriated for construction grants.  
           (6) (g) To receive aid under this section for project costs 
        or for acquisition costs, the municipality must enter into an 
        agreement with the commissioner giving assurance that the 
        airport will be operated and maintained in a safe, serviceable 
        manner for aeronautical purposes only for the use and benefit of 
        the public: 
           (1) for a period of 20 years after the date that the any 
        state funds for project costs are received by the municipality; 
        and 
           (2) for 99 years after the date that any state funds for 
        acquisition costs are received by the municipality.  
        The agreement may contain other conditions as the commissioner 
        deems reasonable. 
           (7) (h) The commissioner shall establish a hangar 
        construction revolving account which shall be used for the 
        purpose of financing the construction of hangar buildings to be 
        constructed by municipalities owning airports.  All 
        municipalities owning airports are authorized to enter into 
        contracts for the construction of hangars, and contracts with 
        the commissioner for the financing of hangar construction for an 
        amount and period of time as may be determined by the 
        commissioner and municipality.  All receipts from the financing 
        contracts shall be deposited in the hangar construction 
        revolving account and are reappropriated for the purpose of 
        financing construction of hangar buildings.  The commissioner 
        may pay from the hangar construction revolving account 80 
        percent of the cost of financing construction of hangar 
        buildings.  For purposes of this clause, the "construction" of 
        hangars shall include their design.  The commissioner shall 
        transfer up to $4,100,000 from the state airports fund to the 
        hangar construction revolving account. 
           (8) (i) The commissioner may pay a portion of the purchase 
        price of any airport maintenance and safety equipment and of the 
        actual airport snow removal costs incurred by any municipality.  
        The portion to be paid by the state shall not exceed two-thirds 
        of the cost of the purchase price or snow removal.  To receive 
        aid a municipality must enter into an agreement of the type 
        referred to in clause (6) paragraph (g). 
           (9) (j) This subdivision shall apply only to project costs 
        or acquisition costs of municipally owned airports which are 
        incurred after June 1, 1971. 
           Sec. 31.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 398A.04, 
        subdivision 1, is amended to read: 
           Subdivision 1.  [GENERAL.] An authority may exercise all 
        the powers necessary or desirable to implement the powers 
        specifically granted in this section, and in exercising the 
        powers is deemed to be performing an essential governmental 
        function and exercising a part of the sovereign power of the 
        state, and is a local government unit and political subdivision 
        of the state.  Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, 
        the authority may: 
           (a) sue and be sued, have a seal, which may but need not be 
        affixed to documents as directed by the board, make and perform 
        contracts, and have perpetual succession; 
           (b) acquire real and personal property within or outside 
        its taxing jurisdiction, by purchase, gift, devise, 
        condemnation, conditional sale, lease, lease purchase, or 
        otherwise; or for purposes, including the facilitation of an 
        economic development project pursuant to section 383B.81 or 
        469.091 or 469.175, subdivision 7, that also improve rail 
        service; and 
           (c) hold, manage, control, sell, convey, lease, mortgage, 
        or otherwise dispose of real or personal property; and 
           (d) make grants or otherwise appropriate funds to the 
        department of transportation, the metropolitan council, or any 
        other state or local governmental unit for the purposes 
        described in subdivision 2 with respect to railroad facilities 
        located or to be located within the authority's jurisdiction, 
        whether or not the facilities will be acquired, constructed, 
        owned, or operated by the authority. 
           Sec. 32.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 398A.04, 
        subdivision 2, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 2.  [RAILROAD ACQUISITION AND OPERATION.] The 
        authority may plan, establish, acquire, develop, construct, 
        purchase, enlarge, extend, improve, maintain, equip, operate, 
        regulate, and protect railroads and railroad facilities, 
        including but not limited to terminal buildings, roadways, 
        crossings, bridges, causeways, tunnels, equipment, and rolling 
        stock.  The authority may not expend state or federal funds to 
        engage in planning for or development of light rail transit or 
        commuter rail transit, unless this activity is consistent with a 
        plan adopted by the department of transportation under section 
        174.84 and a plan adopted by the metropolitan council under 
        section 473.399, and is carried out pursuant to a memorandum of 
        understanding executed by the authority and the commissioner 
        after appropriate consultation with the metropolitan council. 
           Sec. 33.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 398A.04, 
        subdivision 9, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 9.  [AGREEMENTS.] The authority may enter into joint 
        powers agreements under section 471.59 or other agreements with 
        the municipality or municipalities named in the organization 
        agreement, or; with other municipalities situated in the 
        counties named in the resolution, respecting the matters 
        referred to in section 398A.06 or; with another authority; with 
        a state agency; or with the metropolitan council about any 
        matter subject to this chapter. 
           Sec. 34.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 446A.085, 
        subdivision 3, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 3.  [ESTABLISHMENT OF FUND.] A transportation 
        revolving loan fund is established to make loans for the 
        purposes described in subdivision 2.  A highway account is 
        established in the fund for highway projects.  A transit account 
        is established in the fund for transit capital projects.  The 
        transportation revolving loan fund shall receive federal money 
        under the act and money from any source other than the trunk 
        highway fund, the county state-aid highway fund, and the 
        municipal state-aid street fund.  Money received under this 
        section must be paid to the state treasurer and credited to the 
        transportation revolving loan fund.  Money in the fund is 
        annually appropriated to the commissioner and does not lapse.  
        The fund must be credited with investment income, and with 
        repayments of principal and interest, except for servicing fees 
        assessed under sections 446A.04, subdivision 5, and 446A.11, 
        subdivision 8. 
           Sec. 35.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 446A.085, 
        subdivision 6, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 6.  [TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE.] The transportation 
        committee may make authorize the making of loans to borrowers by 
        the authority for transportation purposes authorized by the act, 
        without further action by the authority.  The authority may not 
        make loans for transportation purposes without the approval of 
        the transportation committee.  Each project must be certified by 
        the commissioner of transportation before its consideration by 
        the transportation committee. 
           Sec. 36.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 466.03, is 
        amended by adding a subdivision to read: 
           Subd. 20.  [USE OF LAND HELD UNDER SECTION 473.167.] Any 
        claim based on the condition, use, or maintenance of land 
        acquired and held by the municipality under section 473.167.  
        Nothing in this subdivision limits the liability of a 
        municipality for conduct that would entitle a trespasser to 
        damages against a private person. 
           Sec. 37.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 473.1466, is 
        amended to read: 
           473.1466 [PERFORMANCE AUDIT; TRANSIT EVALUATION.] 
           (a) In 1997 and every four years thereafter, the council 
        shall provide for an independent entity selected through a 
        request for proposal process conducted nationwide to do a 
        performance audit of the commuting area's transportation system 
        as a whole.  The performance audit must evaluate the commuting 
        area's ability to meet the region's needs for effective and 
        efficient transportation of goods and people, evaluate future 
        trends and their impacts on the region's transportation system, 
        and make recommendations for improving the system.  The 
        performance audit must recommend performance-funding measures.  
           (b) In 1997 1999 and every two four years thereafter, the 
        council must evaluate the performance of the metropolitan 
        transit system's operation in relationship to the regional 
        transit performance standards developed by the council. 
           Sec. 38.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 473.399, is 
        amended to read: 
           473.399 [LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT AND COMMUTER RAIL PLANNING.] 
           Subdivision 1.  [GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.] (a) The council 
        shall adopt a plan to ensure that light rail transit facilities 
        in the metropolitan area will be acquired, developed, owned, and 
        capable of operation in an efficient, cost-effective, and 
        coordinated manner in coordination with buses and other 
        transportation modes and facilities.  The plan may be developed 
        and adopted in phases corresponding to phasing of construction 
        of light rail.  To the extent practicable, The council shall may 
        incorporate into its plan appropriate elements of the plans of 
        regional railroad authorities in order to avoid duplication of 
        effort. 
           (b) The light rail transit plan or first phase of the plan 
        required by this section must be adopted by the council before 
        the commissioner of transportation may begin construction of 
        light rail transit facilities.  Following adoption of the plan, 
        each regional railroad authority and the commissioner of 
        transportation shall act in conformity with the plan.  The 
        commissioner shall prepare or amend the final design plans as 
        necessary to make the plans consistent with the light rail 
        transit plan. 
           (c) Throughout the development and implementation of the 
        plan, the council shall contract for or otherwise obtain 
        engineering services to assure that the plan adequately 
        addresses the technical aspects of light rail transit. 
           Subd. 1a.  [INTEGRATED TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM.] The 
        commissioner of transportation, and the metropolitan council, 
        and the regional rail authorities shall ensure that the light 
        rail transit and commuter rail facilities are planned, designed, 
        and implemented:  (1) to move commuters and transit users into 
        and out of, as well as within, the metropolitan area, and (2) to 
        ensure that rail transit lines will interface with each other 
        and other transportation facilities and services so as to 
        provide a unified, integrated, and efficient multimodal 
        transportation system. 
           Sec. 39.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 473.3993, 
        subdivision 3, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 3.  [FINAL DESIGN PLAN.] "Final design plan" means a 
        light rail transit plan that includes the items in the 
        preliminary design plan and the preliminary engineering plan for 
        the facilities proposed but with greater detail and specificity 
        needed for construction.  The final design plan must include, at 
        a minimum:  
           (1) final plans for the physical design of facilities, 
        including the right-of-way definition; environmental impacts and 
        mitigation measures; intermodal coordination with bus operations 
        and routes; and civil engineering plans for vehicles, track, 
        stations, parking, and access, including handicapped access; and 
           (2) final plans for civil engineering for electrification, 
        communication, and other similar facilities; operational rules, 
        procedures, and strategies; capital costs; ridership; operating 
        costs and revenues, and sources of funds for operating 
        subsidies; financing for construction and operation; an 
        implementation method; and other similar matters.  
           The final design plan must be stated with sufficient 
        particularity and detail to allow the proposer to begin the 
        acquisition and construction of operable facilities.  If a 
        turn-key design-build implementation method is proposed, instead 
        of civil engineering plans the final design plan must state 
        detailed design criteria and performance standards for the 
        facilities. 
           The commissioner of transportation may use a design-build 
        method of project development and construction for light rail 
        transit.  Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the 
        commissioner may award a design-build contract on the basis of 
        requests for proposals or requests for qualifications without 
        bids.  "Design-build method of project development and 
        construction" means a project delivery system in which a single 
        contractor is responsible for both the design and construction 
        of the project and bids the design and construction together. 
           Sec. 40.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 473.3994, 
        subdivision 3, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 3.  [PRELIMINARY DESIGN PLANS; LOCAL APPROVAL.] At 
        least 30 days before the hearing under subdivision 2, the 
        commissioner of transportation and the regional railroad 
        authority or authorities in whose jurisdiction the line or lines 
        are located shall submit the physical design component of the 
        preliminary design plans to the governing body of each statutory 
        and home rule charter city, county, and town in which the route 
        is proposed to be located.  The city, county, or town shall hold 
        a public hearing, except that a county board need not hold a 
        hearing if the county board membership is identical to the 
        membership of the regional railroad authority submitting the 
        plan for review.  Within 45 days after the hearing under 
        subdivision 2, the city, county, or town shall review and 
        approve or disapprove the plans for the route to be located in 
        the city, county, or town.  A local unit of government that 
        disapproves the plans shall describe specific amendments to the 
        plans that, if adopted, would cause the local unit to withdraw 
        its disapproval.  Failure to approve or disapprove the plans in 
        writing within 45 days after the hearing is deemed to be 
        approval, unless an extension of time is agreed to by the city, 
        county, or town, and the commissioner of transportation, and the 
        regional railroad authority or authorities in whose jurisdiction 
        the line or lines are located. 
           Sec. 41.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 473.3994, 
        subdivision 4, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 4.  [PRELIMINARY DESIGN PLANS; COUNCIL REFERRAL.] If 
        the governing body of one or more cities, counties, or towns 
        disapproves the preliminary design plans within the period 
        allowed under subdivision 3, the commissioner of transportation 
        and the regional railroad authority or authorities in whose 
        jurisdiction the line or lines are located may refer the plans, 
        along with any comments of local jurisdictions, to the 
        metropolitan council.  The council shall hold a hearing on the 
        plans, giving the commissioner of transportation and the 
        regional railroad authority or authorities in whose jurisdiction 
        the line or lines are located, any disapproving local 
        governmental units, and other persons an opportunity to present 
        their views on the plans.  The council may conduct independent 
        study as it deems desirable and may mediate and attempt to 
        resolve disagreements about the plans.  Within 90 days after the 
        referral, the council shall review the plans submitted by the 
        commissioner of transportation and the regional railroad 
        authority or authorities in whose jurisdiction the line or lines 
        are located and the council shall decide what amendments to the 
        plans, if any, must be made to accommodate the objections 
        presented by the disapproving local governmental units.  The 
        commissioner and the regional railroad authority shall make the 
        amendments to the plans before continuing the planning and 
        designing process.  
           Sec. 42.  Minnesota Statutes 1998, section 473.3994, 
        subdivision 10, is amended to read: 
           Subd. 10.  [CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.] A corridor 
        management committee shall be established to advise the 
        commissioner of transportation in the design and construction of 
        light rail transit in each corridor to be constructed.  The 
        corridor management committee shall consist of the following 
        members:  
           (1) one member appointed by the joint powers board 
        established under section 473.3998; 
           (2) one member appointed by each city and county in which 
        the corridor is located; 
           (3) (2) the commissioner of transportation or a designee of 
        the commissioner; 
           (4) (3) two members appointed by the metropolitan council, 
        one of whom shall be designated as the chair of the committee; 
           (5) (4) one member appointed by the metropolitan airports 
        commission, if the designated corridor provides direct service 
        to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport; and 
           (6) (5) one member appointed by the president of the 
        University of Minnesota, if the designated corridor provides 
        direct service to the university. 
           The corridor management committee shall advise the 
        commissioner of transportation and the regional railroad 
        authority or authorities in whose jurisdiction the line or lines 
        are located on issues relating to the alternatives analysis, 
        environmental review, preliminary design, preliminary 
        engineering, final design, implementation method, and 
        construction of light rail transit. 
           Sec. 43.  Laws 1998, chapter 404, section 17, subdivision 
        3, is amended to read: 
        Subd. 3.  Transitways                                46,500,000 
        (a) This appropriation is to match 
        federal and local funding for the 
        planning, design, engineering, and 
        construction of transitways in the 
        metropolitan area. 
        (b) $40,000,000 is for the preliminary 
        engineering, final design, and 
        construction of light rail transit in 
        the Hiawatha Avenue corridor from 
        downtown Minneapolis through 
        Minneapolis-St. Paul International 
        Airport and the site of the former Met 
        Center or surrounding area with a 
        terminus in southern Hennepin or 
        northern Dakota county. 
        The Hiawatha Avenue corridor management 
        committee created pursuant to Minnesota 
        Statutes, section 473.3994, subdivision 
        10, shall establish an advisory 
        committee of: 
        (1) individuals who reside near the 
        proposed corridor; 
        (2) representatives of businesses 
        located within one mile on either side 
        of the corridor; and 
        (3) elected officials, including 
        legislators, who represent the area in 
        which the Hiawatha corridor is located. 
        The advisory committee shall advise the 
        corridor management committee on issues 
        relating to the preliminary 
        engineering, final design, and 
        construction of light rail facilities, 
        including the proposed alignment for 
        the corridor. 
        (c) The funds in this paragraph must be 
        distributed as grants to appropriate 
        county regional rail authorities upon 
        execution of a work program memorandum 
        of understanding with the commissioner 
        as follows: 
        (1) $3,000,000 to match federal funding 
        for a major investment study, 
        engineering, and implementation in the 
        Riverview corridor between the east 
        side of St. Paul and the 
        Minneapolis-St. Paul International 
        Airport and the Mall of America and in 
        the central corridor between downtown 
        St. Paul and downtown Minneapolis; 
        (2) $1,500,000 to match federal funding 
        for a major investment study, 
        engineering, and implementation in the 
        Northstar corridor linking downtown 
        Minneapolis to the St. Cloud area and 
        to study the feasibility of commuter 
        rail and other transportation 
        improvements within the corridor; 
        (3) $500,000 to study potential transit 
        improvements and engineering studies in 
        the Cedar Avenue corridor to link the 
        Hiawatha, Riverview, and Northstar 
        transit corridors with Dakota county; 
        and 
        (4) $500,000 to develop engineering 
        documents for a commuter rail line from 
        Minneapolis to downtown St. Paul 
        through southern Washington county to 
        Hastings. 
        The commissioner of transportation, in 
        coordination with the North Star 
        Corridor Joint Powers Authority and the 
        St. Cloud area planning agency, shall 
        study the transportation needs within 
        the St. Cloud metropolitan area.  
        (d) $1,000,000 is available as grants 
        to appropriate county regional rail 
        authorities to conduct major investment 
        studies and to develop engineering 
        documents for commuter rail lines in 
        the following corridors: 
        (1) the Young America corridor from 
        Carver county to Minneapolis and St. 
        Paul; 
        (2) the Bethel corridor linking 
        Cambridge with the Northstar corridor 
        in Anoka county; 
        (3) the Northwest corridor from 
        downtown Minneapolis to the Northwest 
        suburbs of Hennepin county; and 
        (4) other commuter rail corridors 
        identified in phase II of the 
        department of transportation's commuter 
        rail service study, except for the 
        corridors identified in paragraph (c). 
        The appropriation in this paragraph is 
        not available until the completion of 
        the commuter rail service study as 
        provided in Laws 1997, chapter 159, 
        article 2, section 51.  The funds may 
        be made available only after approval 
        by the commissioner of transportation 
        of an application submitted by county 
        regional rail authorities that is 
        consistent with the results of the 
        commuter rail service study and 
        demonstrates a coordinated 
        implementation strategy and upon 
        execution of a work program memorandum 
        of understanding with the commissioner. 
           Sec. 44.  [CONSTRUCTION OF RAIL FACILITIES.] 
           Neither the state nor any political subdivision may apply 
        for federal assistance or receive any state appropriation or 
        grant for light rail transit construction until the commissioner 
        begins construction of light rail transit facilities in either 
        the Riverview corridor, connecting the east side of St. Paul, 
        the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, and the Mall of 
        America; or the central corridor, between downtown St. Paul and 
        downtown Minneapolis.  This prohibition does not apply to 
        applications for federal funding or receipt of state funding for 
        light rail transit in the Hiawatha corridor, connecting downtown 
        Minneapolis, the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, and 
        the vicinity of the Mall of America; in the Riverview corridor; 
        or in the central corridor.  
           Sec. 45.  [TRANSIT PLAN; REPORT.] 
           A regional master plan for transit must be developed by the 
        metropolitan council, in consultation with the commissioner of 
        transportation and the regional railroad authorities in the 
        metropolitan area.  The plan must be completed for presentation 
        to the legislature by February 1, 2000.  The plan must include 
        bus and rail development and must be balanced.  It must include 
        bus, busway, and light rail transit investments based on: 
           (1) population density; 
           (2) employment concentrations and job density; 
           (3) transit dependent segments of the population; 
           (4) redevelopment and reinvestment; 
           (5) opportunities in the core of the region; and 
           (6) adequacy of existing transportation corridors. 
           Sec. 46.  [REPEALER.] 
           Minnesota Statutes 1998, sections 169.832, subdivision 13; 
        169.974, subdivision 6; 473.3994, subdivision 12; and 473.3998, 
        are repealed. 
           Sec. 47.  [EFFECTIVE DATES.] 
           Sections 1, 2, 7, 8, and 26, are effective the day 
        following final enactment.  Sections 3 to 6, 9, 12, 15, 17, 28 
        to 30, 34, and 35, are effective July 1, 1999. 
           Presented to the governor May 21, 1999 
           Signed by the governor May 25, 1999, 11:31 a.m.

Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes