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Bill Summary · SF 4653

Summary: SF 4653 (Minnesota), 2025-2026 Session

Title

Propane School Bus Deployment Program Establishment

Purpose and Intent

SF 4653 establishes a state program to accelerate the deployment of propane-powered school buses. The bill aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fuel costs associated with school transportation by providing support for converting or replacing diesel-powered school buses with propane-fueled alternatives. The underlying goal is to advance clean energy in K-12 school transportation and enhance air quality around schools.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Program Establishment: Creates a statewide program dedicated to accelerating the adoption of propane-powered school buses.
  • Funding and Resources: While the text provided does not specify exact appropriation levels, the bill typically would authorize state funding, grants, or loans to school districts, cooperatives, or other eligible entities to cover incremental costs, conversion costs, or procurement of propane buses and related infrastructure (e.g., fueling stations and maintenance training).
  • Eligibility and Participation: Sets criteria for eligible applicants. Likely targets public school districts and possibly private or charter schools that transport students, with emphasis on districts seeking to reduce emissions or meet state clean energy goals.
  • Fleet Modernization: Encourages replacement of older diesel buses with propane-powered units, potentially including lifecycle cost considerations (fuel savings, maintenance, and total cost of ownership).
  • Infrastructure Support: May authorize funding or guidance for fueling infrastructure and associated safety standards, training, and maintenance programs for propane buses.
  • Environmental and Health Benefits: Aligns with broader state objectives to reduce air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, improving air quality around school sites and communities.
  • Reporting and Oversight: Likely includes reporting requirements to track program participation, emissions reductions, cost effectiveness, and utilization of funds.

Who/What Would Be Affected

  • School Districts and Transportation Providers: Eligible entities could receive assistance to purchase or convert to propane buses and install fueling infrastructure.
  • Students and Communities: Beneficiaries include students who ride buses and communities surrounding schools, through potential improvements in air quality.
  • State Agencies: The program would involve a state agency (often the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Department of Education, or a department with energy/climate responsibilities) to administer funds, oversee projects, and report outcomes.
  • Propane Industry Stakeholders: Propane suppliers and service providers may see increased demand for buses, fueling infrastructure, and maintenance services.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduced and Read: SF 4653 was introduced and had its first reading on March 23, 2026.
  • Referral: Referred to the joint committee on Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate for consideration.
  • Next Steps: The bill would proceed through committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor votes in the Minnesota Senate. If passed, it would require concurrence with the House (or a conference committee if there are differences) and eventual signature by the governor to become law.

Notes

  • The provided information lists co-sponsors: Nick Frentz, Andrew Mathews, Rob Kupec, and Bill Weber.
  • Specific funding amounts, match requirements, performance metrics, sunset provisions, or statutory references are not included in the provided summary and would be contained in the bill’s full text and any amendments.

If you’d like, I can incorporate the exact fiscal provisions, eligibility details, and reporting requirements once you share the bill’s full text or a more detailed summary.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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