Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF1836

Introduced
2/24/25  
Refer
2/24/25  
Refer
3/10/25  

Caption

Authority limitation to issue certain citations to pedestrians

Impact

If enacted, SF1836 would impact existing laws by altering the circumstances under which citations can be issued to pedestrians. The proposed amendments would create a more pedestrian-friendly environment, particularly at intersections where traffic signals are in operation. Under this bill, a peace officer could not stop or detain a pedestrian unless there is an unrelated violation or if the pedestrian's actions present an imminent danger due to an approaching vehicle. This change is intended to protect pedestrians from unnecessary citations while crossing streets.

Summary

Senate File 1836 aims to amend certain provisions in Minnesota Statutes concerning traffic control signals and pedestrian behavior at intersections. Specifically, it seeks to limit the authority of peace officers to issue citations to pedestrians for specific traffic violations unless certain conditions are met. The bill proposes clear guidelines concerning how pedestrians and vehicles must interact at traffic signals, seeking to enhance pedestrian safety while ensuring that enforcement does not disproportionately penalize pedestrians under certain circumstances.

Contention

While support for the bill rests on the foundation of improving pedestrian safety, there are points of contention that may arise in legislative discussions. Law enforcement groups may express concerns over the potential loss of authority in enforcing traffic laws, arguing that it could lead to increased pedestrian recklessness if consequences for violating traffic signals are diminished. Critics may raise valid arguments about ensuring that pedestrian compliance with traffic signals is maintained to prevent accidents and ensure public safety on the road.

Companion Bills

MN HF1509

Similar To Authority to issue certain citations to pedestrians limited.

Previously Filed As

MN SF3993

Active transportation requirements amendments including electric bicycles and sales regulations, complete streets requirements, drivers education and appropriations

MN HF3858

Active transportation requirements amended, including regulation of electric-assisted bicycles and sales, requirements on complete streets, and driver's education; and money appropriated.

MN SF912

Bill Dooley Bicycle Safety Act

MN HF677

Active transportation finance and policy provisions governed, and money appropriated.

MN SF4926

Certain limitations modification on towing authority

MN SF4756

Warning lights that volunteer first responders are authorized to use in their personal vehicles when responding to a call specification

MN HF2931

Warning lights specified that volunteer first responders are authorized to use in personal vehicles when responding to a call.

MN HF2361

Various traffic safety provisions modified, including to establish an advisory council, modify traffic regulations, and authorize a pilot program; legislative reports required; and money appropriated.

MN HF4741

Warning lights that volunteer first responders are authorized to use in their personal vehicles when responding to a call specified.

MN SF5284

Omnibus Transportation, Housing and Labor supplemental appropriations

Similar Bills

MS SB2384

Motorcycles and bicyles; allow to proceed through red light if green light is not triggered.

MN HF1509

Authority to issue certain citations to pedestrians limited.

WI AB1193

Requiring vehicles to stop for pedestrians at certain intersections and crosswalks.

WI SB1097

Requiring vehicles to stop for pedestrians at certain intersections and crosswalks.

WI AB332

Requiring vehicles to stop for pedestrians at certain intersections and crosswalks.

WI SB345

Requiring vehicles to stop for pedestrians at certain intersections and crosswalks.

CA SB493

Vehicles: right-turn violations.

CA AB2147

Pedestrians.