MN SF2796

Creates new duties for the Commissioner of Public Safety related to railroad and pipeline spill and discharge preparedness, including assisting emergency managers, developing protocols with railroads and pipeline companies, and monitoring compliance with preparedness requirements.

Establishes a Railroad and Pipeline Safety Account in the special revenue fund funded by annual assessments of $2,500,000 on railroad and pipeline companies (50% each, divided by unit train route miles and hazardous material gallons transported respectively).

Directs funds from the safety account to the Board of Firefighter Training and Education and Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for training, equipment, supplies, and emergency preparedness planning related to oil and hazardous material incidents.

Requires the Commissioner of Public Safety to submit a report by January 15, 2015 to legislative committees assessing emergency response preparedness, costs and needs of fire departments and first responders, fund allocation, and recommending legislative changes.

Transfers $2,500,000 from the general fund to the Railroad and Pipeline Safety Account by July 31, 2014, with assessments expiring July 1, 2019.