Minnesota enacts new rules for administrative citations effective July 2025

Minnesota's Senate Bill 3280, introduced on April 3, 2025, aims to reform the administrative citation process for traffic violations, particularly speeding. The bill mandates that citations must include the actual speed of the vehicle at the time of the infraction, enhancing transparency for drivers. Additionally, it establishes a clear right for individuals to contest these citations before a neutral third party, ensuring a fair process.

Key provisions of the bill include requirements for local governments to notify the Commissioner of Public Safety upon passing relevant resolutions and stipulations on how fines are to be allocated. Specifically, a $60 fine will be imposed for administrative violations, with two-thirds of the revenue directed to the local government's general fund and one-third to the state general fund. Importantly, local units must allocate at least half of the funds received from these fines to law enforcement purposes, promoting accountability in the use of citation revenue.

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, for citations issued thereafter. While the legislation has garnered support for its focus on fairness and transparency, it has also sparked debates regarding the potential financial implications for local governments and law enforcement agencies. Critics express concerns that the reliance on citation revenue could lead to incentivizing ticketing over community safety.

Experts suggest that the bill could significantly impact how traffic enforcement is perceived in Minnesota, potentially fostering greater trust between law enforcement and the community. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for traffic safety and local governance will be closely monitored by stakeholders across the state.