House gives OK to mini-trucks on local roads

published 5/15/2009

Generally sold as off-road vehicles for farms and construction sites, some people use these fuel-efficient mini-trucks for other everyday needs.

However, law enforcement is concerned that they don’t meet federal safety standards for highway use.

Sponsored by Rep. Brita Sailer (DFL-Park Rapids) and Sen. Dan Skogen (DFL-Hewitt), HF571/SF492* would authorize mini-truck operation on local streets and highways under a special permit issued by the local unit of government.

Amended and passed 120-12 by the House, it returns to the Senate.

The bill is also in the omnibus transportation policy bill. A conference committee report for that bill awaits legislative action.

The special permit would be similar to what is now provided for motorized golf carts and certain all-terrain vehicles. Unlike operators of golf carts and eligible all-terrain vehicles, mini-truck operators must have a driver’s license and can drive the vehicle at night. 

Rep. Larry Hosch (DFL-St. Joseph) successfully amended the bill to allow local communities to authorize administrative fines for certain traffic violations. He said more than 100 cities now use the practice with different enforcement and fine rules. The amendment is an agreement for fine uniformity.

- Mike Cook