Qualification-based selection requirement established for certain projects at Department of Transportation, reports required, and money appropriated.

HF 2759 establishes a pilot program requiring Minnesota's Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to use qualification-based selection (selecting engineering firms based on their expertise and experience, not just lowest cost) for at least five road construction projects each year where consultant fees exceed $800,000. This applies from October 2025 through March 2028, with MnDOT required to submit two reports: a preliminary report by October 2026 and a final report by October 2028, detailing impacts on project timelines, quality, change orders, and sustainability. The bill appropriates a one-time $... for fiscal year 2026 to cover the pilot program and report preparation. The pilot expires January 15, 2029, or upon final report submission, whichever comes first, and directly affects MnDOT and the engineering firms hired for qualifying projects.