Bill > SF3279

This bill establishes new requirements for transportation authorities to mitigate the impact of construction projects on local businesses, creating a comprehensive framework to support businesses during road and highway construction. The bill introduces two main components: first, a mandatory business liaison program requiring transportation authorities to identify and communicate with businesses potentially affected by construction projects, including providing detailed information about project duration, road closures, access impacts, and potential disruptions. Second, the bill creates a Local Business Construction Impacts Assistance Program that provides financial support to eligible small businesses experiencing significant project-related disruptions. Eligible businesses must be for-profit or nonprofit entities with two or fewer retail locations, deriving at least 80% of their annual revenue from sales at those locations, and headquartered in Minnesota. Under the program, road authorities must allocate 1% of project costs to provide financial assistance to impacted businesses, with individual awards capped at $30,000 and distributed equally among recipients. If construction impacts extend beyond scheduled completion by 60 days, a supplemental distribution of funds can be triggered. The provisions apply to projects commencing on or after October 1, 2026, and aim to reduce the economic strain on small businesses during transportation infrastructure improvements.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF3279&ssn=0&y=2025