Metro Mobility service area expansion provided, and money appropriated.
Impact
This bill directly impacts the administration and operational criteria of Metro Mobility services by mandating the council to adopt policies that promote efficient service delivery. It encourages participation from a diverse set of service providers including public, private, and nonprofit entities. Additionally, the bill appropriates funds from the general fund for service expansion, indicating a significant investment into improving accessibility in public transportation. The implementation of these changes is set to commence on January 1, 2024, providing a clear timeline for the rollout of the expanded services.
Summary
House Bill 1916 aims to expand the Metro Mobility service area in Minnesota, enhancing public transportation options for individuals who require special transportation services. The proposal seeks to amend existing statutes, specifically Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 473.386, to ensure that coverage extends to certain areas, including Jackson Township in Scott County. By implementing these changes, the bill intends to create a more inclusive transportation environment that meets the needs of all residents, particularly those with disabilities or transportation challenges.
Contention
While the bill has been introduced with the intent to enhance transportation access, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of funds and the effectiveness of the proposed expansions. Stakeholders may express varying opinions on whether the specified appropriations will adequately support the necessary service improvements and if all eligible individuals will be effectively accommodated under the new criteria. The discussion surrounding the bill will likely address how these expansions will be managed and whether they will genuinely meet the accessibility needs of the community.
Metropolitan Council abolished, duties transferred to other departments, public safety radio communication law and fiscal disparity law conforming amendments made, payment of bonds and other debt obligations provided, metro area sanitary sewer district created, and money appropriated.
Metropolitan Council authorized to issue administrative citations; Metropolitan Council required to implement transit safety measures, including a transit rider code of conduct; transit service intervention project established; civil penalties imposed; criminal penalties established; surcharge established; reports required; and money appropriated.
Metropolitan Council abolished, duties transferred to commissioners of administration and natural resources, transportation and transit-related functions transferred to Department of Transportation, metropolitan area sanitary sewer district created, and money appropriated.
Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.