MN HF2152

Local units of government may authorize traffic safety pretrial diversion programs through governing body resolution, allowing peace officers to issue citations with diversion options instead of criminal citations for certain traffic violations.

Eligible violations for diversion citations include: speeding less than 15 miles per hour over the limit, failing to obey a stop line, and equipment violations under sections 169.46 to 169.75.

Violators may elect to attend a traffic safety course (up to $100 fee) or use existing traffic citation processes; individuals with more than two violations within 12 months are ineligible for the diversion option.

Violations under this program are not recorded on driving records and do not affect driver's license status; course fees are split between local government general funds (with at least half for law enforcement) and the state general fund for State Patrol citations.

Program does not apply to commercial driver's license holders or commercial vehicle drivers; local governments cannot expand the program to other traffic violations.