MN HF3744

Requires local units of government (cities, counties, towns) to approve or disapprove advanced corridor plans for transit projects within 45 days; failure to respond is deemed approval unless extension agreed upon.

Establishes a three-member appeal board process when local governments disapprove transit plans, allowing the commissioner of transportation to either amend plans, not proceed, or refer to appeal board for final decision within 60 days.

Defines "guideway" to include intercity rail, commuter rail, light rail, streetcars, highway bus rapid transit, express bus, and dedicated busway projects, excluding certain bus services that don't substantially operate in controlled rights-of-way.

Creates "subregional guideway" classification excluding intercity rail, commuter rail, and bus rapid transit projects costing less than $100,000,000.

Applies similar local approval and appeal board procedures for Metropolitan Council preliminary design plans, with the same 45-day review period and prohibition on continuing project planning if local units disapprove without appeal board approval.