SF810

Purpose

This bill provides funding from the state’s general fund to support the Safe Routes to School program, managed by the Department of Transportation.

Main Provisions

• The bill appropriates $20,000,000 in fiscal year 2026 and $20,000,000 in fiscal year 2027 from the general fund to the commissioner of transportation for the Safe Routes to School program (as authorized by Minnesota Statutes section 174.40).
• It adds $20,000,000 to the annual base for this activity, increasing ongoing funding for the program.

Significance and Changes to Law

• Establishes dedicated annual funding for the Safe Routes to School program by both specific year appropriations (FY2026 and FY2027) and by increasing the program’s base funding.
• Represents a higher, permanent level of support for the Safe Routes to School program through the general fund and the Department of Transportation.

Summary of What It Seeks to Accomplish

• Provides substantial financial support to improve safe walking and biking routes to schools.
• Ensures more stable, long-term funding for the program by increasing the annual base.

Relevant Terms - appropriation - general fund - commissioner of transportation - Safe Routes to School program - Minnesota Statutes section 174.40 - fiscal year 2026 - fiscal year 2027 - annual base - transportation