MN SF3961

Adds "promoting" to the commissioner of transportation's responsibilities for passenger rail planning, design, development, construction, operation, and maintenance

Authorizes the commissioner to conduct promotional and marketing research, campaigns, outreach, and other activities to increase awareness, education, and ridership of passenger rail in Minnesota

Allows the commissioner to convey land and property acquired by purchase, gift, or eminent domain directly to railroad companies if necessary for constructing, maintaining, and improving passenger rail corridors, with consideration at fair market value

Clarifies that passenger rail planning, design, development, construction, operation, and maintenance are governmental functions serving a public purpose and are matters of public necessity

Permits the commissioner to enter into memoranda of understanding or agreements with public or private entities, including Amtrak, regional railroad authorities, joint powers boards, and railroads to carry out passenger rail activities