ST. PAUL, Minn. -- They're called rest areas, but some Minnesota lawmakers don't want that taken too literally.

A proposal before the House Transportation Finance and Policy Division on Tuesday would outlaw camping and some other activities at highway rest areas.

The bill would create six prohibited activities at rest areas. Lawmakers say the Minnesota Department of Transportation is seeking the restrictions.

If the bill became law, it would be illegal to pitch tents or sleep overnight outside a car. It would be a crime to drain waste from an RV or trailer unless a proper receptacle is offered. People couldn't park at a rest stop for more than six hours, unless they're an employee on duty or a commercial motor vehicle operator.

The rest-area restrictions are part of a much-larger transportation policy bill.

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