Minnesota would have to follow the same federal rules as nearly every other state when hiring engineering firms for highway projects using federal funds. The bill removes Minnesota from a two-state exemption in federal highway law, leaving only West Virginia exempt. It does not create new programs or spend new money.
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Parity in Engineering Act is a House bill in committee. The latest recorded action: Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.
Latest action on H.R. 3258: Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.
Who this affects: This bill mainly affects the Minnesota Department of Transportation and engineering firms that work on federally funded highway projects in Minnesota. People who drive on Minnesota roads and bridges could be indirectly affected if the change influences which firms win contracts or how quickly projects move forward.
Why this matters: Most states already follow the same federal contracting rules for highway engineering work, but Minnesota has had a special pass. Removing that exemption could change how millions of dollars in contracts are awarded. Whether that leads to more competition, better outcomes, or just more paperwork depends on how Minnesota adapts.
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