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Bill > SF75


MN SF75

Autonomous mower technology research by the Department of Transportation authorization and appropriation


summary

Introduced
01/16/2025
In Committee
01/30/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

94th Legislature 2025-2026

Bill Summary

A bill for an act relating to transportation; authorizing research on autonomous mower technology by the Department of Transportation; requiring a report; appropriating money.

AI Summary

This bill authorizes the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to conduct comprehensive research on autonomous mower technology, which are robotic devices designed to cut grass and vegetation with minimal human intervention. The research will focus on examining the potential use of these autonomous mowers in various locations such as rest areas, highway rights-of-way, and other department-owned properties. The commissioner is required to investigate different types of autonomous mowers, analyze their commercial availability, and specifically research Minnesota-based companies developing this technology. The bill mandates a detailed examination of the mowers' ability to operate safely in challenging terrains like ditches, navigate obstacles, and potentially improve worker safety and maintenance efficiency. By February 15, 2027, the commissioner must submit a comprehensive report to legislative committees, detailing findings from the research, including a proposed pilot project plan, cost-benefit analysis, and potential implementation challenges. To support this research, the bill appropriates $150,000 from the trunk highway fund in fiscal year 2026, with a specific requirement that at least part of the funding be used to purchase an autonomous mower from a Minnesota-based company.

Committee Categories

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Comm report: To pass as amended and re-refer to Finance (on 01/30/2025)

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