MNLARS Reform

On Thursday, we passed a bipartisan compromise bill that will add strict oversight and accountability, as well as additional funding, to fix the failed licensing and vehicle registration system MNLARS. The legislation appropriates $9.65 million from existing funds for driver and vehicle services for immediate I.T. related expenses. The bill also includes strict oversight measures, including a quarterly report from the Office of the Legislative Auditor, and a mechanism for the legislature to shut off all funding if development benchmarks are not met.

The bill requires the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Minnesota IT Services (MN.IT) officials to submit a proposed timeline, including quarterly benchmarks, for a fully-functional program to the MNLARS Steering Committee by May 15. As the software is developed, the committee must approve any additional quarterly appropriation, provided the quarterly benchmarks are being met.

Despite a decade of planning and over $93 million spent, MNLARS has been a disaster. In the eight months since its release, thousands of Minnesotans have been affected. You deserve a better, and with this reform bill we’re taking the first step to make sure this system works for you.