FEBRUARY 11, 2005 VOLUME 22, NUMBER 6

INSIDE: GAMBLING ON NEW VENTURES, CAPITOL LOVE AFFAIR, BILLS MAKING AN ENCORE, MORE

This Week’s Bill Introductions HF785-HF977 ESSION S Weekly Session Weekly is a nonpartisan publication of the Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offi ce. During the 2005-2006 Legis- lative Session, each issue reports daily House action between Thursdays of each week, lists bill introductions, and provides other information. No fee. ONTENT To subscribe, contact: C S Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services 175 State Offi ce Building HIGHLIGHTS 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155-1298 Agriculture • 5 Government • 8 Local Government • 12 (651) 296-2146 or Business • 6 Health • 9 Metro Affairs • 12 1-800-657-3550 Consumers • 6 Higher Education • 9 Recreation • 13 TTY (651) 296-9896 http://www.house.mn/hinfo/subscribesw.asp Education • 6 Human Services • 11 Tourism • 13 Energy • 7 Insurance • 11 Taxes • 13 Environment • 8 Law • 12 Transportation • 14 Director Barry LaGrave Game and Fish • 8 Editor/Assistant Director Lee Ann Schutz BILL INTRODUCTIONS (HF785-HF977) • 19-23 Assistant Editor Mike Cook Art & Production Coordinator Paul Battaglia FEATURES Writers FIRST READING: Some bills come up year after year • 3 Ruth Dunn, Patty Janovec, Brett Martin, Matt Wetzel, CAPITOL LOVE AFFAIR: Collectors share Capitol souvenirs • 4 Nicole Wood

Chief Photographer GAMBLING ON NEW VENTURES: Commission takes some risks • 15 Tom Olmscheid

Photographers AT ISSUE: Tech companies look to compete globally • 16 Andrew VonBank, Sarah Stacke

Staff Assistants NEW MEMBER PROFILES: Hamilton and Peterson • 17 Christy Novak, Laura Noe

ROAD TRIP: Touring to gain a better understanding • 18 Session Weekly (ISSN 1049-8176) is pub- lished weekly during the legislative session by Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offi ce, 175 State Offi ce Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298. Periodicals postage DEPARTMENTS/RESOURCES paid at Minneapolis, Minn. POSTMASTER: Send address Where to fi nd information • 18 For more information • 24 changes to Session Weekly, Public Minnesota Index: Placing a bet • 24 Information Services offi ce, Minnesota House of Representatives, 175 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298.

Printed on recycled paper which is 50% recycled, 30% post-consumer content. On the cover: The Capitol is refl ected in a puddle on the mall Feb. 4, a day that the temperature topped 50 degrees.

—Photo by: Tom Olmscheid

2 February 11, 2005 IRST READING F★ ★ ★

passed,” predicts Jaros. “It’s just a matter of time. First, other states will do it, then we’ll Repeat performance do it here.” It can sometimes take many tries for an idea to become law He believes public awareness is already in- creasing. He points to the 2004 Minnesota State Fair poll conducted by the House Public Infor- mation Services offi ce that shows 53.7 percent BY RUTH DUNN open like it is in California but that’s not the of people agree that talking on a cellular phone ust like The Little Engine That Could, case,” he said. while driving should be illegal. some legislators persist in trying to get The bill never even got a hearing for several “Using cell phones in vehicles is defi nitely Jcertain bills passed. It may be an uphill years. Then in 1998 it passed the House with dangerous. The public just needs to become climb, but year after year they submit the bipartisan support before hitting a roadblock more aware,” he said. “We didn’t used to same proposal in hopes that one day it will in the Senate. have DWI laws until it kept getting worse and become law. Paulsen sees reason for hope this year mainly people fi nally saw the problem.” Bills can stall for many reasons. They might because Gov. Tim Pawlenty mentioned initia- not be heard in committee – that’s up to the tive and referendum in his State of the State Stick with it chairperson. Even if a bill gets to the House address. “That’s a signifi cant milestone,” said Rep. Tom Hackbarth (R-Cedar) is giving up fl oor, it might not be approved. Or if it is, it Paulsen. “This could be a window of opportu- on the death penalty bill, which he carried for might be stopped by the Senate. nity to engage the public on this issue.” He met several years after picking up the torch when So why stick loyally to a bill proposal? with the governor recently to talk about it and Rep. Hilda Bettermann left the House. “Perseverance — it’s the Iron Range work Paulsen is optimistic the proposal will be on “It’s not going anywhere. There is no ap- ethic,” said Rep. Tom Rukavina (DFL-Vir- the ballot in November 2006 as a constitutional petite for it so it’s time for me to move on to ginia). “You never give up; you just keep amendment. “Then, the voters can decide. other bills.” Last year was the best attempt working on something.” “Anytime you try to reform government with support from the governor and lots of This is the third biennium that he has with this or other proposals like a unicameral publicity with the Dru Sjodin murder case, worked to pass a bill (HF238) requiring that legislature, it’s not something that happens he said. This year, he’s not even introducing all U.S. fl ags and accessories be manufactured easily,” he said. the bill. in this country. He has also tried to amend the This is the fourth time in fi ve years that Rep. One bill he’s defi nitely not giving up on proposal onto numerous other bills during Mike Jaros (DFL-Duluth) has introduced a is one he’s helped promote since 1999 to fl oor activity. “After Sept. 11, everyone was bill limiting cell phone use in cars. His cur- protect shooting ranges from encroaching waving fl ags,” he said. “The sad thing is that rent bill (HF18) requires cell phone use to be development. “We’ve downsized the bill and most were made overseas.” hands-free. “It’s a bill that eventually will be First Reading continued on page 4 Rukavina is also passionate about raising the state’s minimum wage. It hasn’t been in- creased since 1997 although he has submitted a bill (HF48) every biennium since then. “This year it has become a popular issue. The time is right,” he predicts. “If it can get to the fl oor, it will pass this year.”

Windows of opportunity Rep. Erik Paulsen (R-Eden Prairie) is think- ing the time may also be right for his perennial bill (HF820) on initiative and referendum that he’s introduced every biennium since he was fi rst elected in 1994. “I’ve always been a true believer in it,” he explains. Since he fi rst championed the bill, Paulsen has reshaped the proposal based on success in the other 24 states that have it. The biggest obstacle he’s faced is educating legislators about his proposal. Every two years, there is a new group of legislators so every two PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID years there must be a new education process. After several years of trying, Rep. Tom Hackbarth was able to get a bill passed last session that “People fear that the proposal would be wide created a mourning dove hunting season for the fi rst time since 1947.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 3 First Reading continued from page 3 grassroots support from the public with with amendments.” He knows of one legislator removed some contentious issues in hopes it making the difference. The bill became law whose bill didn’t fl y as solo legislation but got will pass this year.” An avid outdoorsman, last year. attached to fi ve other successful bills. Hackbarth claims he’s not retiring until it “Some bills are ahead of their time,” said Even if a bill is a long shot, proposing it will does and jokes that could be an incentive for Clark. “People eventually come to understand earn it exposure and will also prompt advice. some to pass it. He said his latest bill would the issue and gain the courage to support it.” “Listen to concerns; incorporate changes. When be introduced next week. there is opposition, address it,” said Ozment. “If you feel passionate about an issue, stick Listen and learn Legislation may stall because others lack with it,” advises Hackbarth. “We fi nally got the “Very often bills don’t pass on the first an understanding of what the bill is trying to mourning dove season passed last year.” That’s try. I’ve seen many good ideas not listened accomplish. “Get out there and educate,” he a bill he pushed for several years and other leg- to the fi rst time,” said Rep. Dennis Ozment said. islators had carried since 1947. “There is great (R-Rosemount), an 11-term member who has He advises legislators and constituents who satisfaction in fi nally getting a bill passed.” chaired a number of committees, including are passionate about their issues to be patient. After surgery for ovarian cancer, Rep. Karen the current House Agriculture, Environment “Don’t lose your temper or get frustrated Clark (DFL-Mpls) fi rst sponsored a bill four and Natural Resources Finance Committee. because then the focus shifts from your issue years ago requiring screening for women at “A bill might not be successful on the fi rst, to you,” he said. high risk for the disease. The proposal didn’t second or even third time, but if it’s important A bad attitude can stop legislation, but a even get a hearing for the fi rst three years but to you then be persistent, keep pushing.” Once positive one can propel it. Ozment said, “I’ve then the tide turned. Clark credits biparti- a bill has passed the House it’s often “alive for seen some bills that were extremely contro- san support, especially from Rep. Gregory other avenues” even if it doesn’t pass the Senate, versial in the beginning become some of the M. Davids (R-Preston), along with growing said Ozment. “I’ve seen successful outcomes best laws in the state.”

Capitol Love Aff air Collectors share State Capitol souvenirs in honor of centennial

The pride Minnesotans felt Commission and Friends of the Minnesota upon the completion of the State Capitol. Capitol in 1905 resulted in Some lighthearted, some lovely, the up- hundreds of souvenirs and coming exhibits promise to be delightful. collectible items bearing Along with the more respectable porcelain its image. plates and vases, the May exhibit will fea- “It represented to them ture “A Different Era — of Bad Habits” that Minnesota had fi nally focusing on smoking, drinking and vanity. come of age as a state,” said Sheila Smith, “It’s hard to believe how many ashtrays have a member of the newly formed Minnesota the Capitol on them,” Smith joked. Beer State Capitol Collectors. “‘See what we have steins, tweezers and pill boxes will also be now — we’re important.’” on display. In honor of the Capitol Centennial, the Smith speaks about the Capitol collec- collectors will share their treasures with the tion with a combination of admiration and public throughout the year. Look for the amusement. “It’s all about having fun with display cases on the fi rst fl oor of the Capitol the 100th birthday celebration.” in the north wing, May 1-24 and June 26- July 10. (N. WOOD) According to the collectors, “over 550 varied postcards and hundreds of other Celebrate the Centennial by attending the souvenirs in paper, metal ceramics, textile unveiling of portraits of Capitol Architect Cass Gilbert and his wife, Julia Finch Gilbert, and plastic were made, sold and saved — all at noon Tuesday, Feb. 22. The event will take with the Capitol image.” place just outside the Supreme Court Chamber Smith’s collection began with a gift from on the second fl oor of the Capitol. her antique collecting husband: a 100-year- old hand mirror that bears an impression For more information about upcoming Capitol Centennial Celebration events: of the Capitol. Minnesota Historical Society State Capitol Part of her inspiration to build on the Site, (651) 296-2881 or www.mnhs.org/places/ collection came from spending six years sites/msc as a Senate staff member, she said. “Having Minnesota State Capitol Centennial an opportunity to work in the building, I Celebration, (651) 203-7246 or www. ourhouse100.com appreciated its beauty every day.” PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID Smith has also served on the Capitol Area The Minnesota State Capitol Collec- Architectural and Planning Board and now tors are scheduled to share their trea- is connected with the Capitol Centennial sures at two shows later this year.

4 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 IGHLIGHTS F EBRUARY 3 - 10, 2005 H★ ★ ★

shall be deemed to be a defective product, nor extended 12 times since then. ★ AGRICULTURE any manufacturer of motor fueled engines be The program is set to expire July 1, 2005. liable for warranties or repairs thereto, if the HF426, sponsored by Rep. Maxine Penas One step closer to E20 motor fuel has not been prohibited from use (R-Badger), would again extend the program, Motor vehicle gasoline sold in Minnesota is by the federal government.” this time through June 30, 2009. required to contain 10 percent agriculturally Other provisions in the bill would create The House Agriculture and Rural Devel- derived ethanol by volume. The mandate, in a state petroleum replacement goal for at opment Committee approved the measure place since 1997, is commonly referred to as least 20 percent of the liquid fuel sold in the Feb. 9. It now moves to the House fl oor. “E10.” state to be derived from renewable sources by The program is operated through the Uni- The House Agriculture and Rural Devel- Dec. 31, 2015. versity of Minnesota Extension Service with opment Committee approved a bill (HF223/ The Agriculture Department, in consulta- signifi cant support from the U.S. Department SF4*) Feb. 8 that could double the mandate. As tion with the Commerce Department and Pol- of Agriculture. amended, it now moves to the House Environ- lution Control Agency, is directed to “identify It offers farmers and creditors the chance to ment and Natural Resources Committee. and implement activities necessary for the resolve debt issues through mediation rather Sponsored by Committee Chair Rep. widespread use of renewable liquid fuels in the than litigation. Under certain circumstances Gregory M. Davids (R-Preston), the bill would state.” Those activities could include develop- it is mandatory for a creditor to offer the me- raise the required ethanol/gasoline blend to ing retailer incentives to install renewable fuel diation option. Farmers are not obligated to 20/80 by the year 2012 unless two things hap- dispensing equipment and working to main- accept. pen by Dec. 31, 2010: the state is already using tain an affordable retail price for liquid fuels. Mary Nell Preisler, mediation program a 20 percent ethanol blend in the gasoline sup- director, said the number of cases in 2004 was ply, or federal approval has not been granted 1,270 at an average cost per case of $274. for the E20 blend. “This seems like an extremely cost-effi cient The Senate passed the unamended measure, Extending farmer assistance program way to support family farms in Minnesota,” sponsored by Sen. Dallas Sams (DFL-Staples), The year 1986 was a turbulent one for Min- said Rep. Frank Moe (DFL-Bemidji). Feb. 7 by a 54-12 vote. nesota farmers. Commodity prices were low, John Apitz, an attorney representing Farm The Minnesota Petroleum Marketers As- interest rates were high and a record number Credit Services, opposed the bill on the grounds sociation had expressed concerns about liabil- of farmers were facing foreclosures. that interfering in lender-borrower relations ity issues that could arise from a new blend. Those were the circumstances under which could violate the Minnesota Constitution. Its position is now neutral, said Executive the Legislature created the Farmer-Lender Art. 1 Sec. 11 of the Constitution reads: “No Director Bob Krogman, after the following Mediation Program. Lawmakers set a sunset bill of attainder, ex post facto law, or any law amendment was added: “No motor fuel … date of July 1, 1988, and the program has been impairing the obligation of contracts shall be passed, and no conviction shall work corrup- tion of blood or forfeiture of estate.” The program was created during an agri- cultural economic crisis, Apitz said, in part to prevent civil unrest and protect the state’s economic interest. “But today is not that era,” he said. “The conditions in the state have changed dramatically.” A companion bill (SF550), sponsored by Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy), awaits action on the Senate fl oor.

For information on a proposal for funding a feasibility study on constructing a rail container facility in Willmar, go to the Session Weekly EXTRA page at: http://www.house. mn/hinfo/swx.asp

To fi nd out who represents you at the Capitol . . . PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID Call House Public Information Ward Formo, right, project manager with the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, tells the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee Feb. 8 that there will be plenty of corn for the livestock Services at (651) 296-2146 growers even with the increase of ethanol in gasoline. Brad Nelson, left, president of the Minnesota or 1-800-657-3550 Ethanol Producers Association, also appeared before the committee.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 5 “We’re asking for a random act of kind- The National Highway Traffic Safety ★ BUSINESS ness,” Hausman said. Administration investigated the accident and The Senate passed the bill 59-0 Jan. 27. ordered safety recalls. Recovering attorney’s fees “We’d like to get this passed so this man According to the Minnesota Department of Funeral homes would have a greater chance can get on with his business,” said Rep. Tor- Education, 40 school districts in Minnesota of recouping attorney’s fees in conciliation rey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake), the committee currently have about 115 defective Carpenter court if HF128, sponsored by Rep. Sondra chair. buses in their fl eets. Erickson (R-Princeton), becomes law. “I’ll be able to open my business and get The Minnesota Department of Public Wes Siemers, a funeral director from Mi- on with my life and make money,” Huff said. Safety ordered that all defective school buses laca, told the House Civil Law and Elections “This will bring a good thing to St. Anthony be taken out of service until recommended Committee Feb. 7 that many rural funeral Park.” repairs were completed. A certifi ed welder directors do business on a handshake, but was required to repair the welds. But even sometimes those handshake contracts leave after repairs, the recommendation was that them empty-handed. They end up hiring an the buses should be used only on a limited attorney and going to court in an attempt to CONSUMERS basis and should not be driven over 45 mph. recover their costs. ★ Usually when a vehicle defect is discovered, “You know the deceased and their family, Another round the manufacturer is liable. But in this case and operate on trust that you will get paid,” An omnibus liquor bill made its way Carpenter went out of business in 1995. Siemers testifi ed. through committee and was referred to the Two bills heard by the House Education He said that even if there is a written con- House fl oor by the House Regulated Indus- Finance Committee Feb. 9 would provide money tract, and those owing the money are brought tries Committee Feb. 9. to school districts to partially pay the costs of re- to conciliation court, funeral homes seem A nearly identical bill cleared both the placing each defective bus, many of which are old to have little success in having judges award House and Senate last year, only to be rejected and have dropped in value. “The bills are similar attorney’s fees. by the governor. but with a twist,” according to Rep. Barb Sykora “A lot of times the judge will hear sympa- Rep. Joe Hoppe (R-Chaska), the sponsor (R-Excelsior), the committee chair. thetic excuses ... we haven’t had a lot of luck of HF286, said the provision the governor Both bills would provide about $30,000 collecting these fees,” Siemers said. objected to last year, concerning the sale of al- to replace each defective bus and would also Under Erickson’s bill, if a funeral provider is cohol in the city of Walker, has been removed reimburse districts that have already replaced allowed to recover fees through court action, from the bill. buses. The bills differ only in the strategies for the provider may be able to recoup reasonable “This bill is completely non-controversial,” getting money to the school districts. attorney’s fees as well. That provision is not Hoppe said. “We want to make life easier with Under HF579, sponsored by Rep. Maxine Penas currently spelled out in state statute. less regulation for people.” (R-Badger), the state would provide $3.6 million Erickson proposed similar legislation last He said the bill would provide conformity for a loan program to districts. In turn, the districts year, which was passed by the House, but not in license fees and production levels for brew- could levy locally, over four years, to pay back the considered by the Senate. pubs and small brewers, authorize temporary money. Penas said her proposal would accelerate She asked that language in her bill be licenses to small brewers, and modify other getting money to the school districts because they amended to correspond with that being municipal licenses. are eager to replace the buses. “You can’t go 45 mph considered in SF287, sponsored by Sen. Betsy In addition to allowing the issuance of forever,” she said. Wergin (R-Princeton). That bill awaits action liquor licenses in St. Paul for special events Under HF251, sponsored by Rep. Bernard on the Senate fl oor. Erickson’s bill now awaits at the State Capitol and Duluth for Wade Lieder (DFL-Crookston), school districts action on the House fl oor. Municipal Stadium, the bill would also per- would be able to use the health and safety levy, mit Elko Speedway to sell liquor seven days a often used for items like asbestos removal, to week, permit Manning’s Café in Minneapolis replace buses. Lieder said the advantage of his Liquor license restriction to be issued an intoxicating liquor license and proposal is that it uses an existing process. Jeffrey Huff quit his job fi ve months ago to transfer from St. Paul to Ramsey County the Both bills will be considered for inclusion in start a wine shop near the St. Paul campus of authority to issue licenses to state fair vendors the committee’s omnibus fi nance bill. A simi- the University of Minnesota. He discovered, to sell Minnesota-produced wine. lar bill was approved last year and included in however, that he couldn’t obtain the liquor A Senate companion (SF171), sponsored the tax bill that was never approved. license. by Sen. Sandra Pappas (DFL-St. Paul), awaits A companion to Penas’ bill (SF624), spon- Current law does not allow off-sale liquor action by the full Senate. sored by Senate President James Metzen (DFL- licenses within one-half mile of the campus, South St. Paul), awaits action by the Senate which meant Huff couldn’t get a license and Finance Committee, as does a companion to open his doors for business. EDUCATION Lieder’s bill (SF338), sponsored by Sen. LeRoy But the House Regulated Industries Com- ★ Stumpf (DFL-Plummer). mittee approved a bill Feb. 9 that would change that. It now awaits action on the House fl oor. Problem buses Sponsored by Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL-St. A school bus overturned in Florida in 2003 Paul) and Sen. Ellen Anderson (DFL-St. Paul), and brought to light a defect in buses made If you have Internet access, visit the HF155/SF206* would authorize St. Paul to is- by Carpenter Manufacturing Company. Upon Legislature’s Web page at: sue the license in proximity to the college. The impact, defective welds failed resulting in http://www.leg.mn St. Paul City Council has already approved the the collapse of the bus roof to seat level — a license. potentially dangerous situation.

6 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 Early childhood funding HF58, sponsored by Rep. Char Samuelson in Prinsburg rather than busing students to With four children under the age of 5, (R-New Brighton), and HF152, sponsored by MACCRAY. Carolina and Greg Olson of North St. Paul Rep. Nora Slawik (DFL-Maplewood), would Legislators asked why District 815 wants turned to their school district’s Early Child- both restore funding beginning in fi scal year to continue to exist rather than merge with hood Family Education (ECFE) program for 2006 by changing the formula back to $120. another district. information and support in their new role as “With these two bills before us we have a Juhnke said there has been ongoing discus- parents. chance to restore funding and undo a terrible sions about consolidation but nothing has “ECFE was like a second family to us, a wrong,” said Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Rose come of it. In addition, he added, “In rural support system,” said Greg Olson. ville). “I hope we will continue the bipartisan- areas, schools are a source of pride. The 500 Guatemala native Carolina was a stay-at- ship that we have with these two authors.” or 600 residents of Prinsburg want to preserve home mom who was new to this country Greiling said some people listed among the school district. That may sound sappy, but and didn’t speak much English. Through sponsors of the bills actually voted in favor of that’s the way it is.” her involvement, Carolina said, “I am a more the cuts last year. “People spoke out, people Committee members approved HF248 and confi dent parent, I am more positive with my changed minds and came forward with restor- referred it to the House Taxes Committee. A kids and I have a better understanding of their ing legislation.” companion bill (SF485), sponsored by Senate behavior.” ECFE is commonly offered through the Majority Leader Dean Johnson (DFL-Will- Many families like the Olsons are involved community education programs of school mar), awaits action in the Senate Finance in ECFE programs around the state. In 2003, districts. Parents involved in the program Committee. the Legislature changed the state funding for- also pay fees for classes and activities based A similar bill was recommended last year mula for ECFE from $120 to $96 times a school on their family income. and was included in the fi nal tax bill of both district’s population of children under age 5. bodies, which never received fi nal approval. Sue Stoner, family education coordinator for the Mounds View School District, said A district without students that funding reductions resulted in cuts in ELECTIONS Prinsburg School District 815 is one of only ★ staff and programming. ECFE is important, two public school districts in the state that she said, because babies don’t come with in- does not have students. For information on a tabled proposal struction manuals. to help prosecutors follow up on Prinsburg, located southwest of Willmar, The House Education Finance Committee reports of theft of campaign funds, and Franconia (near Taylors Falls) are the considered two bills Feb. 9 that would restore go to the Session Weekly EXTRA state’s only remaining common school dis- page at: http://www.house.mn/ the funding. Each will be considered for pos- tricts. There used to be many common school hinfo/swx.asp . sible inclusion in the committee’s omnibus districts that offered a limited educational fi nance bill. program, usually just an elementary school. Most of the common school districts con- ENERGY verted to being independent school districts ★ when they added junior highs, middle schools Biomass-fueled systems or high schools. The farming and logging industries are Most school age Prinsburg children attend looking to use their by-products, cornhusks, a private religious school, Central Minnesota wood reside and waste woods to create a new Christian School, operated by the Dutch Re- energy source. form Church. About 30 students within the A bill (HF456), sponsored by Rep. Kathy boundaries of the Prinsburg School District Tingelstad (R-Andover), would provide attend nearby MACCRAY Public Schools $1 million to pay for a feasibility study that through open enrollment. could lead to the creation of four to fi ve bio- The Prinsburg School District receives mass-fueled heating and cooling systems, no state aid because aid is based on student which could be used to heat municipal, state enrollment. Residents approved a levy refer- college or university buildings. endum in November but it needs legislative The bill was heard Feb. 3 in the House Jobs action to become reality. and Economic Opportunity Policy and Finance The school district wants to raise money for Committee and held over for possible inclusion two reasons, Rep. Al Juhnke (DFL-Willmar), in the committee’s bonding resolution. the sponsor of HF248, told the House Educa- The dependence on foreign oil puts Min- tion Finance Committee Feb. 8. nesotans in a vulnerable position, said for- Prinsburg owes about $280,000 to the mer House Speaker Dee Long, now tax and MACCRAY School District for tuition for incentive program director for Minnesotans Prinsburg students who attended MACCRAY PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID for an Energy Effi cient Economy. “Our reli- through an informal arrangement that was ance on energy sources, imported from other Leah Auckenthaler of Minneapolis holds her in place before the districts entered a more 8-month-old son, Jonathan, who participates states or countries, has put communities in formal open enrollment process. in the Southwest Minneapolis ECFE program, a vulnerable position in terms of national Also, the Prinsburg School District will during a hearing of the House Education Finance energy market price fl uctuations and makes Committee Feb. 9. The committee heard two bills use the money to provide special education us dependent on non-renewable fossil fuels,” to restore funding for Early Childhood and Family services to students at the private school. she said. Education programs. Residents prefer those services be offered February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 7 Long said the St. Paul District Energy’s • Metropolitan Council (Regional Parks and (R-Good Thunder), the bill would add trail- wood waste-fueled plant heats and cools Como Zoo), $5 million; and ers to the approved list of vehicles subject to much of downtown St. Paul, including the • Office of Environmental Assistance, seizure and forfeiture by the Department of State Capitol. She called it, “the poster child $4 million. Natural Resources because of a Driving While for a successful joint application of biomass Two notable differences between the com- Intoxicated (DWI) arrest. and community energy systems.” mittee recommendation and SF1, sponsored Boats come in so many different sizes that The bill states that the fuel source for the by Sen. Keith Langseth (DFL-Glyndon), that it’s a challenge to always have the appropriate projects must be sustainable biomass. Both was passed by the Senate Jan. 24, are the trailer on hand, enforcement offi cials said. existing and new energy systems would be Department of Natural Resources and Min- Rep. Torrey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake) eligible to apply. Projects converting to cogen- nesota Zoo appropriations. The Senate would objected to adding one more item of value eration and projects seeking matching funds fund them at $117.8 million and $12 million, to the forfeiture list that the offender could would be given top priority. respectively. potentially sell. A companion bill (SF311), sponsored by “No one hates forfeiture more than I do, Sen. Richard Cohen (DFL-St. Paul), has I’ll tell you that right now, but I think this is a been referred to the Senate Jobs, Energy and GAME & FISH common sense issue,” said Committee Chair Community Development Committee. ★ Rep. Tom Hackbarth (R-Cedar). Other provisions in the bill would authorize Shhhh! … Wildlife control at work the department to run criminal background Federal, state, tribal and local peace offi cers checks on volunteer instructors who work would have the option of using silencers to ENVIRONMENT with children and change a requirement that ★ muffl e fi rearms discharged for wildlife control fi rearms safety courses be conducted in every purposes, under a bill (HF42) approved by the Investing in ag and the environment school district. House Environment and Natural Resources The House Agriculture, Environment A companion bill (SF569), sponsored by Committee Feb. 3. and Natural Resources Finance Commit- Sen. Satveer Chaudhary (DFL-Fridley), awaits Silencers are already legal for peace offi cers tee fi nalized a bonding proposal Feb. 3 that action in the Senate Environment and Natural to use in tactical emergency response opera- would direct nearly $170 million in capital Resources Committee. investment toward the state’s agricultural and tions against criminal activity. environmental efforts. Sponsored by Rep. Larry Howes (R-Walker), Activities that would be funded include the bill now moves to the House Public Safety Policy and Finance Committee. fl ood control, critical habitat acquisition and ★ GOVERNMENT closed landfi ll improvements. Capital invest- As a precursor to discussion of the silencer ment dollars would support affordable loan bill, the Department of Natural Resources Legislative redistricting programs for farmers and grants to help cities, presented an overview of trouble on Minne- It was the House Civil Law and Elections counties, solid waste management districts sota’s lakes caused by double-breasted cormo- Committee’s turn on Feb. 9 to review a pro- and sanitary districts implement integrated rants, a swimming bird that dives into water posal to realign legislative districts and reduce solid waste management systems. after fi sh. The state’s aquaculture industry is House and Senate membership — something The request matches the bottom line of concerned about the cormorant population that at least one rural legislator said may not the governor’s recommendations with a few negatively impacting fi sh resources. Natural best serve his constituents. shifts in priorities. It now moves to the House resources offi cials have identifi ed a problem Sponsored by Rep. Mary Liz Holberg (R- Capital Investment Committee. on Leech Lake with cormorants encroaching Lakeville), HF515 calls for legislative districts The Department of Natural Resources on the nesting areas of the threatened com- to be realigned by 2013 and for the size of the would receive the largest portion, $71.95 mil- mon terns. Legislature to decrease. It would also prevent lion. Budget items would include $21 million The silencer bill is not directed solely to- congressional districts from crossing Senate for fl ood hazard mitigation grant projects, ward cormorant control. It would give natu- districts. $12 million for wildlife area acquisition and ral resources management agencies a more The bill would reduce the number of sena- $8.4 million for state and local trail acquisi- effective control method for many wildlife tors from 67 to between 60 and 64, and House tion. The department’s capital investment populations, proponents said. members from 134 to between 120 to 128. The outlays also would include water access and A companion bill (SF149), sponsored by number of senators must be evenly divisible fi shing pier projects, stream protection and a Sen. Carrie Ruud (R-Breezy Point), awaits by the number of Minnesota representatives grant to the Lake Superior Zoo in Duluth. action in the Senate Environment and Natural in Congress. The Minnesota Zoological Gardens would Resources Committee. Supporters said it can be confusing for receive $28.51 million. Of that, $20.64 million constituents, especially when several congres- would be used for new exhibits, $6 million sional districts can be in one House district. for asset preservation and about $1.87 mil- Taking the trailer Because of fewer legislators, Rep. Peter Nelson lion beginning in fi scal year 2006 as the state Boaters who have too much to drink behind (R-Lindstrom) is concerned that realignment assumes debt service on the zoo’s marine the wheel could see their trailers towed away may “move people further away from their education center. along with their boats, under a bill (HF215) government.” Other appropriations would include: approved by the House Environment and He spoke of when his father was a legislator • Board of Water and Soil Resources, Natural Resources Committee Feb. 3. and how his Senate district went from Anoka $27.36 million; It now moves to the House Public Safety to 30 miles south of Duluth. Nelson pointed • Department of Agriculture, $18.82 million; Policy and Finance Committee. to how diffi cult it is to be “pulled by the needs • Pollution Control Agency, $14 million; Sponsored by Rep. Tony Cornish and wants” of such varied constituencies. “It is

8 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 kind of nice to pick up your phone and know your legislator and when you talk about an is- CRIME VICTIMS SUPPORT sue, they know what you are talking about.” The bill, while not unanimous in its ap- proval, now moves to the House fl oor. A companion bill (SF291), sponsored by Sen. Pat Pariseau (R-Farmington), is awaiting action on the Senate fl oor.

For information on how municipalities, constituents and businesses are aff ected fi nancially as they try to comply with state agency rules, go to the Session Weekly EXTRA page at: http://www. house.mn/hinfo/swx.asp .

★ HEALTH Savings account advancement Identical bills calling for consumer-driven health plans have been referred to their second committee in two weeks. The bills would give health savings accounts (HSAs) the same tax advantages under state tax law that they have under federal tax law where contributions, earnings and withdraw- als are tax-free. “HSAs encourage individuals to buy health plans that better suit their needs so that insur- ance kicks in only when it is truly needed,” Rep. Tim Wilkin (R-Eagan) said in a written document provided to the House Commerce and Financial Institutions Committee Feb. 8. “Individuals will make cost-conscious deci- PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID sions if they are spending their own money Jill Fazio of Someplace Safe in Fergus Falls awaits the start of the Minnesota General Crime Victims Coalition’s rally in the Capitol Rotunda Feb 9. Someplace rather than that of a third party.” Safe provides support for the walk-in advocacy services available to area women Wilkin is sponsoring HF9 and Rep. Jim who are victims of domestic abuse. The program also off ers services to victims of Knoblach (R-St. Cloud) is sponsoring HF135. general crime and sexual assault. Both bills were referred to the House Taxes Committee. conformed to the federal standards. A health savings account, when paired The bills would make the income tax treat- ★ HIGHER EDUCATION with a high deductible health plan, forms a ment of health savings accounts retroactive to consumer-driven health plan. Jan. 1, 2004. Charting a course Since the accounts belong to individuals, The Senate companion bill for Wilkin’s Minnesota needs a new strategic vision for they can be carried from job to job until retire- bill (SF99), sponsored by Sen. Brian LeClair higher education. ment. They can be used during retirement to (R-Woodbury), was approved by one commit- So says a November 2004 Citizen’s League pay for retiree health care, Medicare expenses tee and awaits action in the Senate Tax Com- Report on higher education in Minnesota, the and prescription drugs. mittee. The companion bill to Knoblach’s findings which were shared Feb. 9 with the Advocates say these plans offer more bill (SF194), sponsored by Sen. Mady Reiter House Higher Education Finance Committee. choices and more savings. (R-Shoreview), has been referred to the Senate “Maintaining our quality of life and our “What employers are really looking for in the Health and Family Security Committee. economic success will require setting new marketplace are options,” said Carolyn Jones, and higher expectations for higher education director of health care and transportation policy achievement and recognizing that this educa- for the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. tion will need to be provided in new and in- For information on a bill seeking If Minnesota does not adopt federal con- technical adjustments to the novative settings,” according to the report. formity, it would increase the cost of doing Hospice Bill of Rights making it The 33-member task force took six months business in Minnesota relative to states that easier to understand, go to the to research and compile its findings. The have, Wilkin said. Only nine states, includ- Session Weekly EXTRA page at: report can be accessed at: http://www.citi- ing Minnesota, that tax income have not http://www.house.mn/hinfo/swx. zensleague.net. asp .

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 9 PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID Students from Minnesota colleges and universities wear their message for a tuition freeze during a rally on the State Capitol steps Feb. 9. Students, from left, Tim Donahue from Winona State Univer- sity, Elizabeth Nyberg from Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Caitlin Payton from St. Paul College, Dawn Meyers from Northwest Technical College-Bemidji and Michelle Nyman and Tom Bergstrom of Minnesota State University, Mankato. PHOTO BY ANDREW VONBANK Among its recommendations are: the state to move forward.” Dr. David Agerter, chair of the Mayo Clinic • expectations should be raised so a minimum The report does not address closing any Department of Family Medicine, presents an overview of the Mayo Medical School and two level of academic achievement for Min- campuses. It was task force members’ beliefs family residency programs during the Feb. 7 nesotans is at least two years of post-high that answering that topic is dependent on a meeting of the House Higher Education Finance school education; new strategic vision for higher education. Committee. • Minnesota should expand its investment in improving the coordination and expansion take care of fi ve nursing homes and provide support for fi ve rural ambulance services.” of college readiness and access programs; Physician training Since the Rochester program began 23 years • the Higher Education Services Offi ce Board Mayo Foundation representatives came ago, every spot has been fi lled, as is the case at should be replaced with a Higher Educa- to the House Higher Education Finance the St. Cloud program that began in 1996. tion Performance Council, whose mis- Committee Feb. 7 seeking support for the He said that 54 percent of Rochester graduates sion would be to monitor and maximize governor’s budget proposal calling for nearly practice in the state, 23 percent in rural areas. the results Minnesotans are receiving for $2.8 million to fund three programs that Sixty-eight percent of those graduating their annual investment in higher educa- focus on keeping doctors in the state and, in from the St. Cloud program remain in the tion; and particular, rural areas. state, with 60 percent practicing in rural areas. • annual report cards should be created to The foundation is receiving state dollars “Very few of our graduates that have gone into detail the strengths and weaknesses of for the same amount during the current a smaller community have chosen to leave,” higher education providers. biennium. “Current funding allows for the Agerter said. “There really is no report card on what the continuation of high quality education at The Mayo Medical School is the most com- outcomes are on places receiving state money,” Mayo which benefi ts all Minnesotans,” said petitive school for admissions in the country, said Vance Opperman, who co-chaired the Dr. David Agerter, chair of the Mayo Clinic Agerter said, with 3,000 annual applicants for task force with Rondi Erickson. Department of Family Medicine. 40 admissions. The report also found some troubling The foundation receives state dollars for “What’s interesting, is that a large clinic like trends even before students begin college: Minnesota students participating in three Mayo is on the cutting edge of new technol- • fewer high school students are taking higher programs: the Mayo Medical School and ogy, yet 55 percent of those students opt to go level math and science classes, family residency programs in Rochester and into primary care: family medicine, general • more than 30 percent of state high school St. Cloud. internal medicine and general pediatrics,” graduates need remedial college classes, At both family residency programs, physi- Agerter said. Seventy percent of the school’s and cians are trained to meet the needs of rural graduates enter practice in Minnesota. • the percentage of Minnesotans ages 18-24 Minnesota, which Agerter defi ned as areas of enrolled in higher education but not yet 10,000 persons or fewer. graduated dropped from 43 percent to The 24 students in the Rochester program 36 percent between 1992 and 2002. practice at a clinic in Kasson, 14 miles away. If you will be visiting the Capitol in the “We can’t sustain our quality of life under “We are the only physicians in that particu- near future, call the Capitol Historic Site the current situation and we can’t compete as lar county,” Agerter said. “Last year we had Program at (651) 296-2881 well globally,” Erickson said. “We must have a 68,000 outpatient visits, many of them for to schedule a tour. highly educated workforce in Minnesota for under-insured or uninsured patients. We also

10 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 Steve Larson, executive director for The Arc ★ HUMAN SERVICES of Minnesota, called the fee increases approved ★ INSURANCE by the 2003 Legislature “dramatic” and said Parental fees modifi cation they are adversely affecting families. One more health alternative Financial relief could be on the way for “Parents of children with disabilities who More health care providers in Minnesota parents of children with disabilities. are on medical assistance received substantial would create competition and drive down the A bill (HF619) being sponsored by Rep. increases in their fees; some increases ranged cost of health coverage under a bill that would Fran Bradley (R-Rochester) would modify from 200 percent to 700 percent,” Larson said. permit service cooperatives to provide group the sliding scale for parental fees for the cost “The fee increases have jeopardized the abil- health coverage to private employers. of services for children with disabilities. The ity of many families to stay on the medical HF563, sponsored by Rep. Jim Knoblach modifi cation would impact parents in certain assistance program or provide for the needs (R-St. Cloud), would allow the cooperatives to income ranges. of other family members.” create and manage one or more group health “I hope we as a committee will do all we can Jessica Wilson said the increases caused her coverage pools for private employers. The to help these people,” Bradley told the House family to cancel its supplemental insurance. pools could be fully insured or self-insured. Health Policy and Finance Committee Feb. 9. The parental premium fees in 2003 were $157 “In this era of skyrocketing health care He chairs the committee. a month. This year, they would have been costs, this bill provides one additional alterna- more than $500 a month, she said. tive,” Knoblach told the House Health Policy Their 15-month-old son, Lars, was born and Finance Committee Feb. 9. “We have very with Spina Bifi da, and he’s already had six few health care providers in this state.” surgeries, Wilson said. Last year, they spent The bill, which would be effective immedi- $7,500 in out-of-pocket medical expenses ately, would require pools to permit the sale of and logged 13,000 miles driving to hospitals. its products by licensed insurance agents. Ser- Audience members wept as she testifi ed with vice cooperatives would be prohibited from Lars sitting on her lap. covering both public and private employers “If the program fees continue to increase in the same pool. or the program is not available, I don’t know Paul Brinkman, executive director for the how we’ll be able to afford the rising medical Northeast Service Cooperative, said the co- costs,” Wilson said. “We need the parental fee operatives are competitive and membership programs to be accessible and affordable for is voluntary. all who need and depend on them.” “People only join when they see a value in The committee held the bill over for possible membership,” Brinkman said. inclusion in its omnibus bill. Its Senate compan- The committee approved the bill and re- ion (SF726), sponsored by Sen. Brian LeClair ferred it to the House Commerce and Finan- (R-Woodbury), awaits action in the Senate cial Institutions Committee. It has no Senate Health and Family Security Committee. companion.

HUMAN SERVICES BUDGET OVERVIEW

PHOTO BY ANDREW VONBANK Jessica Wilson of Sartell holds her 15-month-old son, Lars, as she testifi es Feb. 9 before the House PHOTO BY ANDREW VONBANK Health Policy and Finance Committee in support of a bill that would modify parental contribu- Department of Human Services Budget Director Jane Hardwick and Commissioner Kevin tions for the cost of services for children with Goodno present the governor’s 2006-07 agency budget proposal during the Feb. 8 meeting disabilities. of the House Health Policy and Finance Committee.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 11 protection offered to debtors, which now in- House Research publication. ★ LAW cludes clothes and household furniture, which According to the bill, a request means “a in totality cannot exceed $4,500 in value. written application related to zoning, septic Initiative and referendum Under current law a ring of any value can be systems, or the expansion of the metropolitan A bill giving voters the opportunity to de- taken in bankruptcy court, said Olson. He told urban service area, for a permit, license, or cide on a process that would let them enact of an attorney who described the emotional other governmental approval of an action.” laws and repeal old ones without legislative situation that people face when they are forced Townships can currently apply for a 60-day approval was approved by the House Gov- to hand over their rings. extension with a written notice of why the ernmental Operations and Veterans Affairs Rep. Torrey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake) extension is needed. Fewer extensions would Committee Feb. 9. presented a scenario in which a person might occur with a 90-day period by “giving them Minnesotans would appreciate the “op- become divorced, remarried, keeps both rings more accommodations under their meeting portunity for people to weigh in,” said House and later fi les bankruptcy. He wanted to know schedules,” said Kent Sulem, an attorney with Majority Leader Erik Paulsen (R-Eden Prai- if both rings are exempt, because they are the Minnesota Association of Townships. rie) of the process known as initiative and wedding rings. Current law provides accountability for referendum. Olson said that it could be argued that if both governmental entities and those sub- He sponsors HF820 that advocates changing the cumulative value of the rings is no more mitting applications, said Rep. Larry Hosch the state constitution to allow for the process. than $1,225 both rings could be retained. (DFL-St. Joseph). Many of the issues can The proposed constitutional amendment “What the court would decide I don’t know,” be addressed in the 60-day time frame, he would be before state voters in the 2006 gen- he said. added. eral election. Olson said the bill would cover lower income A Senate companion, SF323, sponsored by Under the bill, proposals from voters to initi- people, and has been told by attorneys that this Sen. Thomas Neuville (R-Northfi eld), awaits ate or repeal a law would require 5 percent of fi gure would apply to most bankruptcies. action in the Senate State and Local Govern- registered voters who cast ballots in the previous The bill was approved by the committee and ment Operations Committee. gubernatorial election. Constitutional changes sent to the House fl oor. would require 8 percent of the registered voters A companion bill (SF288), sponsored by in the previous gubernatorial election in each of Sen. Betsy Wergin (R-Princeton), awaits ac- the three-quarters of the congressional districts, tion by the full Senate. METRO AFFAIRS and the state as a whole. ★ Paulsen said the process has been shown Elected members to increase voter turnout when a state has Metropolitan Council members may soon the option for initiative and referendum, and As part of the state’s 1998 fi nd themselves campaigning for their seats brings more accountability to government. settlement with tobacco companies, on the regional planning entity. Rep. Phyllis Kahn (DFL-Mpls) said the $200 million went to a private “It has signifi cant taxing authority, and so, legislation only requires the Office of the nonprofit to distribute. Several therefore, a government entity with this much Secretary of State to publish an online voter’s lawmakers believe the funds should responsibility and this large, I believe needs have been appropriated by the guide that would include: ballot text, ballot and deserves to be elected in order to have question and the sponsor’s mailing address for Legislature instead. For information on a bill that addresses the issue, go the legitimacy to carry out its very important proposals. Unless broadband Internet service to the Session Weekly EXTRA page mission,” said Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL- becomes available statewide, the requirement at: http://www.house.mn/hinfo/ Mpls). is “geographical unfairness,” she said. swx.asp . A former council member, Hornstein is The bill next moves to the House Civil Law sponsoring HF558 that would require the and Elections Committee. 16-member board to be elected to four-year A Senate companion, SF90, sponsored by LOCAL GOVERNMENT terms, with a chair elected from among Sen. Dave Kleis (R-St. Cloud) awaits action ★ members to a one-year term, beginning with in the Senate Elections Committee. the primary in 2006. Members are currently No time extension appointed by the governor and confi rmed by A bill that would have extended the ability the Senate. for cities and townships with populations of Under the bill, there must be a new election To have and to hold less than 10,000 to review certain applications of all members at the fi rst election following If you fi le bankruptcy, you may be able to over a 90-day period, instead of the current redistricting every 10 years. Members from keep your wedding ring off the hands of your 60 days, failed in the House Local Govern- odd-numbered districts would serve an initial creditors, under a bill (HF473) sponsored by ment Committee Feb. 9. term of two years. Rep. Mark Olson (R-Big Lake). Sponsored by Rep. Paul Marquart (DFL- The bill also requires a feasibility study on Olson is asking to protect, in bankruptcy Dilworth), HF568 would have given small cit- transferring functions or services from coun- proceedings, wedding rings in the possession ies and towns additional time they currently ties to the council. The report would be due of the debtor, with a cumulative value of no lack because of small staff and infrequent to the Legislature by Dec. 31, 2006. more than $1,225. meetings, he said. Created by the Legislature in 1967, the He told the House Civil Law and Elections In 1995, the Legislature enacted the so-called council is responsible for regional planning in Committee Feb. 9 the bill’s intent is to “create “60-day rule” that requires governmental enti- the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It oversees a modest exemption” so that rings aren’t taken ties to approve or deny a written request for the regional bus system, wastewater collection as part of a settlement. certain regulatory actions within 60 days or the and treatment facilities, and Metro Mobility, The bill would extend the current request is approved, according to a nonpartisan a transit operation that serves senior citizens

12 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 and people with disabilities. With a budget of city of Duluth as a whole,” Coole said. Bateman said. “We’re asking you to help preserve more than $600 million, it’s the third largest A companion measure (SF600), sponsored Minnesota resorts.” level of government in the state, behind the by Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon (DFL-Du- Resorts contribute nearly $11 million in state itself and Hennepin County. luth), has been referred to the Senate Finance taxes to Minnesota in addition to supporting Rep. Neil W. Peterson (R-Bloomington), Committee. local economies, said John Edman, director also a former Met Council member, voted of Explore Minnesota. against the measure. “Election doesn’t neces- “The Minnesota resort experience is what sarily mean quality,” he said. When you look TOURISM differentiates us from the rest of the country,” at the history of members, “these people have ★ Edman said. “Resorts offer people an experi- great pedigrees in public policy and public Longer summers requested ence they couldn’t otherwise enjoy.” organization, and they know these com- If some resort owners get their way, students Jerry Hammer, general manager of the Min- munities. The electorate, many times, does will have their summer vacations extended. nesota State Fair, also supports delaying the start not select the same quality of people that the Testifying before the Tourism Division of the of schools until after Labor Day so they won’t appointment process does.” House Commerce and Financial Institutions compete with the fair. He said the later opening The bill was approved on a 12-5 roll-call Committee Feb. 9, resort owners said that pro- wouldn’t hinder children’s education. vote by the House Local Government Com- hibiting schools from starting before Labor Day “Education is what the fair is all about,” Ham- mittee and referred to the House Civil Law would provide a much-needed longer vacation mer said. “A trip to the fair is like 100 fi eld trips and Elections Committee. season. Several dozen supporters, all wearing rolled into one as far as educational value.” A Senate companion, SF420, sponsored by orange life preservers, fi lled the room for the A bill (HF205), sponsored by Rep. Larry Sen. Charles Wiger (DFL-North St. Paul), testimony. The division took no action. Howes (R-Walker), would prohibit the school awaits action in the Senate State and Local Mary Jane Keller, who owns Brookside Re- year from starting before Labor Day. It awaits Government Operations Committee. sort in Park Rapids with her husband, Dave, action in the House Education Policy and said schools and school sporting events are Reform Committee. Its Senate companion starting earlier in the year, which impacts the (SF307), sponsored by Sen. Carrie Ruud resort industry. (R-Breezy Point), awaits action in the Senate RECREATION “The window of time to vacation is getting Education Committee. ★ smaller and smaller,” she said. “Starting school Money for hockey after Labor Day would lengthen the season.” When leaking propane from a Zamboni led Keller also noted that resorts employ high school students, so a later school start date to an explosion during a broomball game at ★ TAXES Duluth’s Peterson Arena Dec. 19, the ensuing would allow students to earn more money. fi re gutted the building. There were 30 people Jennifer Bateman, owner of Two Inlets Long-term care credits in the city-owned building at the time, and Resort in Park Rapids with her husband, Bob, A bill to increase the maximum allowable one person was hurt. said the number of resorts in Minnesota has credit for long-term care insurance premiums With only one other indoor youth hockey shrunk from about 4,000 in the 1990s to 980 was approved by the House Commerce and arena in Duluth, the incident forced Duluth today. A longer season would allow resorts to Financial Institutions Committee Feb. 8. Hockey Association offi cials to scramble for make more money and stay in business. The tax credit would help people plan for ice time, and begin fund-raising efforts for a “We’re not asking you to save us,” long-term care by offsetting expenses, said new arena. Hockey boosters believe they can raise half of the $3.4 million needed for a new arena from local contributors and the insurance settlement. HF636, sponsored by Rep. Mike Jaros (DFL- Duluth), would provide the additional $1.7 mil- lion. The bill was heard Feb. 3 in the House Jobs and Economic Opportunity Policy and Finance Committee and held over for possible inclusion in the committee’s bonding resolution. “I call it an emergency bill,” Jaros said. According to Clarke Coole, executive direc- tor of the Duluth Amateur Hockey Associa- tion, almost 30,000 people used the facility in 2004, and it regularly hosted statewide broom- ball and hockey events. A 1998 study indicated arena activity contributed approximately $11 million to the local economy. That num- ber has increased since then, Coole said.

“In our view, this bill will not only provide PHOTO BY ANDREW VONBANK opportunities for the children of Minnesota, Observers in the hearing room don life vests to illustrate their cause during a presentation by but will also contribute greatly to the eco- the Congress of Minnesota Resorts on tourism in small-sized markets at the Feb. 9 meeting of the nomic development of West Duluth and the Tourism Division of the House Commerce and Financial Institutions Committee.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 13 Rep. Kurt Zellers (R-Maple Grove), sponsor No one was responsible for township road Buzz Anderson, president of the Minnesota of HF309. signs, Fricke said, until a federal program Retailers Association said, “It just adds an- “This bill encourages people to do the right was implemented in the mid-1980s to replace other obstacle to any development a retailer thing for their families,” Zellers said. “This defi cient township road signs. does in a community,” adding that retailers helps prevent the unexpected.” According to Fricke, there is no program would likely pass the utility fees on to their Zellers said his family has had a farm for the regular maintenance and replacement customers. in North Dakota for more than a century. of township road signs. And townships don’t A companion bill (SF366), sponsored by When a relative needed long-term care, the have the money. Sen. Sharon Marko (DFL-Cottage Grove), insurance covered the costs. If not for the He said that if the program is approved, the awaits action in the Senate Transportation insurance, Zellers said they would have been towns could update and keep a better record Committee. forced to sell land or put a lien on the farm to of their signs, and make needed replacements cover the long-term care expenses. quicker. This will make Minnesota’s rural Current law in Minnesota allows a credit roads safer, he said; adding that in 2002, there against the state income tax for paying long- were 50 traffi c fatalities on rural two-lane term care insurance premiums. That credit is roads and 217 accidents where the victim ★ LATE ACTION equal to 25 percent of the premiums’ costs if sustained severe injuries. they are not used as an itemized deduction. A companion bill, SF377, sponsored by Defi ciency dollars in The bill would increase the maximum allow- Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy), has been Senate court able credit from $100 to $500 for an individual referred to the Senate Finance Committee. A House-Senate conference com- return and from $200 to $1,000 for a married mittee reached agreement on a couple fi ling jointly. $31.07 million defi ciency spending mea- The committee referred the bill to the sure (HF57*/SF350) that would assist Utility fee bill to wait House Taxes Committee. The Senate compan- those state agencies and programs that A bill that would allow cities to impose util- ion (SF125), sponsored by Sen. Brian LeClair are facing budget shortfalls by June 30 ity fees on property owners was tabled Feb. 9 (R-Woodbury), awaits action in the Senate or sooner. at a joint meeting of the House Transportation Tax Committee. The House voted 130-2 on Feb. 10 to pass and Transportation Finance committees. the plan. It now moves to the Senate. HF313, sponsored by Rep. Frank Hornstein House sponsor Rep. Jim Knoblach (DFL-Mpls), would permit cities to impose (R-St. Cloud) said there were three main street utility fees on properties based on the TRANSPORTATION differences between the two bodies: ★ number of trips their land generates. • Senate conferees, led by Sen. Richard In order for the cities to impose the utility Signs for rural areas Cohen (DFL-St. Paul), acceded to the fee, an ordinance would have to be approved There are 56,000 miles of rural roads in House plan that would offset the cost by two-thirds of the city council. The city the state’s unincorporated areas, and tens of of the bill by a $24.7 million transfer must have a master plan for street recon- thousands of road signs to help keep motorists from the budget reserve in the state struction and maintenance. Property owners safe. General Fund; would be allowed to appeal their fee to district Many of those signs were installed in the • Department of Corrections funding lev- court. mid-1980s and need to be replaced, but there els differed between the two bodies by Currently, when streets in cities need to is no program for the maintenance, improve- $500,000. The conference committee be repaired, property owners in the area are ment and replacement of those signs, said agreement would direct $4.07 million assessed. Rep. Ann Lenczewski (DFL-Bloom- David Fricke, executive director of the Min- to help the department deal with a ington) said that isn’t always fair, because the nesota Association of Townships. growing prison population and rising costs are borne by the property owners in the The organization, which spends more than prisoner health care costs; and immediate area, when drivers from the entire half of its time on transportation issues, is • The Department of Administration city and elsewhere often use the streets. asking the Minnesota Department of Trans- would receive nearly $4.71 million “This is an attempt to get it off the property portation to implement a pilot program that for relocating the Agriculture and tax system and make it a user fee,” she said. would provide for the ongoing maintenance Health departments to a joint facility. Judy Johnson, Plymouth mayor and of road signs in the state’s unincorporated The House had proposed $3.7 million president of the League of Minnesota Cities areas. for the move. agreed. “We know that there’s an effort that HF276, sponsored by Rep. Doug Magnus Other appropriations would include will continue to take away local control. There (R-Slayton), seeks $6 million to help the de- $13.39 million for regional treatment are no more revenues. The roads don’t know partment develop a program that would count centers for civilly committed sex offenders they aren’t deteriorating faster than the rate all the town road signs, make sure they adhere and $7.68 million for public defenders. to applicable federal, state and local standards, of infl ation. It’s a much more equitable way to replace those that don’t and establish an on- spread the cost,” she said. going maintenance program. The allocation “We see this as an end run around property could be used as a match to federal dollars. tax reform,” said Jack Horner, speaking for The bill was heard in the House Transpor- the Minnesota Multi-Housing Organiza- If you have Internet access, visit the tation Finance Committee Feb. 8 and held tion, a trade association for the multi-family House’s Web page at: over for possible inclusion in the committee’s rental housing industry. “It makes apartment http://www.house.mn omnibus bill. owners and commercial property owners pay “It’s been an ongoing issue for a number of more, but apartment owners and commercial years,” Fricke said. property owners are already paying more.” 14 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 EATURE F ★ ★ ★

LCMR project requests Gambling on new ventures HF390, sponsored by Rep. Kathy Commission recommends special natural resource project Tingelstad (R-Andover), places the Legisla- tive Commission on Minnesota Resources’ funding to Legislature recommendations in bill form. The House Agriculture, Environment BY PATTY JANOVEC Affairs Committee. It’s the basic research with and Natural Resources Finance Committee wind turbine’s three, 40-meter blades no industrial incentive that is often times the laid over the $39.29 million bill Feb. 8 for spin 360-feet in the air near Carleton hardest to get funded, he added. possible inclusion in its omnibus environ- College in Northfi eld, an experimental Over $400,000 was put into research, such ment and natural resources fi nance bill. A Director John Velin emphasized citizen energy project funded by state lottery money. as wind turbines at Carleton College and the involvement in commission projects. To- For every dollar the public spends on University of Minnesota-Morris, in 2003. gether with the Citizen Advisory Commit- a lottery ticket, about 6 cents goes to the Another project involved a machine that com- tee, a Web-based citizen survey garnered Environment and Natural Resources Trust presses dairy manure to make dry fertilizer … some 300 responses and allowed citizens Fund. The fund solely although that experi- to “come to a public forum in a virtual supports the Legisla- “It is probably one of the most innovative ment didn’t work, said sense,” he said. tive Commission on parts of state government in that you Velin. A couple of “hallmark projects” in the Minnesota Resources “If we aren’t getting bill, Velin said, include a consortium of (LCMR), which then really look at things that are kind of into at least a little bit nonprofi ts, state and federal agencies and ventures into some on the leading edge.” of trouble, we probably American Indian tribes working together gambling of its own — Rep. Kathy Tingelstad, aren’t doing our job,” on habitat corridor restoration in both with experimental nat- LCMR member Velin said. Asked if the Greater Minnesota and the Twin Cities ural resource projects. ventures are met with metropolitan area. The bill would earmark “We try to be innovative, and sometimes much controversy, he responded, “Often we $7.59 million for those eff orts. when you try to be innovative you’re not get questions that indicate surprise,” rather “The hope would be that they would always gonna succeed, but documenting an than disapproval. combine in their view of prioritization in unsuccessful approach is valuable in and of “What I really like about this commission is seeking which lands to purchase, which itself,” explained John Velin, director of the it is probably one of the most innovative parts lands to restore, the ones that make the best sense, the ones that create the big- LCMR, at the Jan. 19 meeting of the House gest symbiosis,” he said. Governmental Operations and Veterans LCMR continued on page 16 Other projects would include: • state park and recreational land acquisi- tion ($2 million), • Minnesota county biological survey ($1 million), • clean energy resource teams and com- munity wind energy rebate programs ($700,000), • recycling treated municipal wastewater for industrial water use ($300,000), • completing third party certifi cation of Department of Natural Resources forest lands ($250,000), • biological control of European buckthorn and garlic mustard ($200,000), and • Minnesota children’s pesticide exposure reduction initiative ($200,000). A companion bill (SF469), sponsored by Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy), awaits action in the Senate Finance Committee. (N. WOOD)

PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID The LCMR has provided funding for wind turbines similar to these at Carleton College in Northfi eld.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 15 T ISSUE: TECHNOLOGY A ★ ★ ★

the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, employing as many as 50,000 people and High-tech destination generating $40 billion to $50 billion in sales Legislative support could help companies compete globally per year, Gerhardt said. “It’s an important source of revenue back to the state,” he said. To help these companies stay competitive BY BRETT MARTIN (more than 50 percent higher than the average and encourage innovation, Gerhardt and innesota is a hotbed for high- private sector wage), with an annual payroll Rubin would like to see a change in the state’s technology companies, and these of $8.4 billion, said Kate Rubin, president of research and development tax credit. Mcompanies would like to see poli- the Minnesota High Tech Association. Currently, Minnesota companies receive cies that strengthen the state’s technol- “I want the committee to understand the land- a 5 percent tax credit for expenditures over ogy-based economy and help ensure global scape of tech companies in Minnesota and the the “base amount” up to $2 million, then competitiveness. impact they have on the economy,” she said. 2.5 percent after that. Each company’s base In 10 years, 90 percent of the world’s sci- Rubin emphasized the importance of edu- amount is devised using a specifi c formula. entists will come from Asia, Michael Wright, cational funding for the sciences. Her associa- Rubin’s association has called for a flat president of Entegris, told the Technology, tion recommended allocating $4.5 million for 5 percent tax credit. Gerhardt said he supports Bioscience and Medical Products Division of Internet access in rural Minnesota schools to a fl at 5 percent now, but would like to see the the House Commerce and Financial Institu- make the use of technology widely available. number gradually increase to 8 or 9 percent. He tions Committee Feb. 3. Asia is graduating Donald E. Gerhardt, president and CEO points out that Indiana and Massachusetts have significantly more scientists while many of Medical Alley, touted the enormity of 10 percent rates, and California has 15 percent. American scientists are retiring, he said. Minnesota’s medical technology industry. He “We’re asking for competitiveness,” Ger- Wright is concerned this country will lose said there were 2,500 medical device patents hardt said. “We feel that would be fair for all its competitive edge. fi led between 1997 and 2001 in Minnesota. the players.” “For most of us in business, it’s a threat we’ve “It’s important to keep that alive because While no bills have yet been introduced, been competing with for a long time. It’s a very that’s what fuels the economy,” he said, not- Rep. Joyce Peppin (R-Rogers) said she would real threat,” Wright said. “It’s not to say we can’t ing that the state medical technology sector’s introduce legislation this session to expand compete, because we can, but the playing fi eld employment rate grew 31.9 percent over the last the credit. is becoming more and more uneven.” 10 years, compared to 10.2 percent nationally. “I am in support of the R & D tax credit,” There are almost 200,000 high-tech jobs in There are approximately 520 medical she said. “The high tech industry is important Minnesota, paying an average wage of $58,300 manufacturers in Minnesota registered with for Minnesota.”

LCMR continued from page 15 only qualifi cation is that there be a clear and dominant public benefi t to the project,” Velin of state government in that you really look at explained. things that are kind of on the leading edge and Director John Velin Rep. Jerry Dempsey (R-Red Wing) ques- the opportunity to try some new things,” said presents the Legisla- tioned how wind turbines at Carleton College tive Commission on Rep. Kathy Tingelstad (R-Andover). Minnesota Resources’ could have a broad public benefi t. Comprised of 10 members each from the biennial report during “You reduce the amount of power generated House and Senate, including Tingelstad, and the Feb. 8 meeting of by the traditional fossil fuel sources,” Velin a citizen advisory committee of 11 members the House Agriculture, said. Any megawatt that you produce other appointed by the governor, the commission Environment and Nat- than by fossil fuels reduces the load in the area provides recommendations to the Legislature. ural Resources Finance Committee. thereby reducing pollution in the surrounding The commission was created by the communities. PHOTO BY ANDREW VONBANK Legislature in 1963 to look at natural resources For the 2006-07 biennium, 221 projects and “realized that enhancing and maintaining an amendment requiring that 40 percent of costing more than $240 million were initially and improving our natural resources would proceeds go to the fund. That dedication now submitted for possible funding. The LCMR is probably not be done by just the regular budget goes through December 2024. recommending 74 of those to the Legislature operations,” said Velin. Each biennium the commission reviews for funding, totaling $39.29 million. In 1988 voters approved a constitutional potential projects, and prepares a plan for For a full listing of the Legislative Commission amendment allowing for the Minnesota funding priority areas. on Minnesota Resources 2005 recommended State Lottery, and two years later approved “Anybody can apply for funding. The projects visit: http://www.commissions.leg. state.mn.us/lcmr/

16 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 EOPLE P ★ ★ ★

Leading by example DISTRICT 22B Hamilton knows the process works with commitment 2002 Population: 36,610 Largest city: Worthington Counties: Cottonwood, Jackson and Nobles Top Concern: Increased funding for BY BRETT MARTIN a napkin of what we would like to change. We For the Hamiltons, politics may be becoming took that list to the Minnesota Pork Producers education a family affair. Association,” Hamilton said. “The list then “When I won my election, my son, Tyler, went to legislators and those changes ended “It’s extremely rewarding to know who was president of his up becoming law.” elementary school stu- After seeing the process in motion, he you can make a diff erence if you’re dent council, said, ‘Dad, wanted to be part of it. committed to the process until the end that’s great! Maybe that “It’s a process that does work if you’re com- and willing to work hard.” will help my career,’” mitted,” he said. “It’s extremely rewarding — Rep. Rod Hamilton Rep. Rod Hamilton to know you can make a difference if you’re (R-Mountain Lake) said. committed to the process until the end and including the Technology, Bioscience and The entire family, in- willing to work hard.” Medical Products Division. cluding his fi fth-grade With an impressive resumé in agricultural Hamilton, a former member of the Mountain Rep. Rod Hamilton daughter, Haley, and issues — past president of the Minnesota Lake School Board, introduced HF5 to increase wife, Lynee, hit the campaign trail, knocked Pork Producers Association, member of the the basic education formula allowance. on doors and handed out literature. Minnesota Farm Bureau, winner of the Young “When I was going around visiting with “Without their support, I could not, and Farmers & Ranchers competition in 2001, constituents, the two main issues of concern would not, be here,” Hamilton said. former member of the governor’s Livestock were skyrocketing health care costs and edu- Working on a hog farm south of Rochester, Task Force — he’s a natural for the House cation,” he said. “I want to promote quality and seeing the issues that farmers face, drew Agriculture and Rural Development Com- education and make sure our children get the him into politics. mittee. He also sits on the House Ways and good education they deserve.” “I sat down with two local farmers at a Means Committee and House Commerce and Happy Chef restaurant and we wrote a list on Financial Institutions Committee,

Education expert DISTRICT 45A Outsider comes inside to bring about change 2002 Population: 36,983 Largest city: New Hope County: Hennepin Top Concerns: Education, transportation, BY RUTH DUNN forces and committees. But seeing the process economy Rep. Sandra Peterson (DFL-New Hope) is from the inside is a different story. “I’m learn- no newcomer to the limelight. During her ten- ing like everyone else,” she said. Peterson serves ure as president of the Minnesota Federation on the House Education Policy and Reform and “Voters are upset with both political of Teachers, the state’s Transportation committees. parties. People told me if they went second largest teach- Peterson, a former teacher in the Rob- to work and didn’t get the job done, ers’ union, her face and binsdale School District, is not surprised they would not be paid. ” name appeared in news- that there are more educators than any other — Rep. Sandra Peterson papers and on TV across occupation represented in the House. “Every the state. Four years ago, day in their classrooms, teachers see how the not see a second term.” she was instrumental in Legislature affects their lives.” Teachers also A widow since 1990, Peterson has two the federation’s merger possess skills for campaigning, like being able grown sons and a 2-year-old granddaughter with the Minnesota to communicate with voters, she said. who might grow up to be a teacher someday, Rep. Sandra Peterson Education Association, Legislative gridlock was the big factor in her if Peterson has any infl uence. to create Education Minnesota. She served as election from a swing district, said Peterson. She enjoys city life and is an avid movie buff. co-president of the new union for three years “Voters are upset with both political parties. She has also been known to hunt game birds and then as vice president. People told me if they went to work and didn’t in Manitoba, Canada, and to return to the Peterson is familiar with the legislative get the job done, they would not be paid. homestead near Benson that has been owned process from the outside. She’s testifi ed and People want us to get things done and to make by her family since the 1800s. She loves to read lobbied on behalf of bills, and was appointed by decisions that will benefi t the state in the long non-fiction books, especially biographies, several governors to numerous legislative task run. We have to focus on results, or we will because she learns so much from them.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 17 EATURE F ★ ★ ★

Jolly explained. Some days the biggest chal- lenge is fi nding the resources to keep the lights Road trip on, he said, and other days it’s just making House committee tours to gain a better understanding sure the big dinosaur in the lobby doesn’t fall on anyone. Magnus said he left the building with a better understanding of the work done at BY NICOLE WOOD legislative support. the St. Croix Watershed Research Station by he House Agriculture, Environment and Tours afford lawmakers the opportunity to the museum’s environmental research com- Natural Resources Finance Committee see, firsthand, unique projects and genuine ponent. After an overview of prairie plant T went to Mars Jan. 25. In reality, there working conditions. propagation efforts, was no interplanetary travel. It was a trip to Better than a State Of- he said, “an ag person the Science Museum of Minnesota 3D digital fice Building hearing “It’s really tough to sit here and make like me is saying ‘Gee, theater in St. Paul. While Museum President room and a PowerPoint budget recommendations when everyone they’re doing studies Eric J. Jolly presented his case for state sup- presentation, a tour al- is coming through your door with good here on wildlife habitat port, committee members were wowed by the lows department offi- ideas and a passion for what they do.” that I think are really “Mars 3-D” imagery captured by the Spirit cials to provide tangible — Rep. Doug Magnus cutting edge.’” and Opportunity rovers. evidence of efficiency The museum isn’t Sometimes that wow factor enhances and innovation. With the only account to a captive audience, it’s fall under the scope of the committee as it easier to dispel myths or develops a budget recommendation for fi scal misconceptions about years 2006-07. Other off-site visits in January agency activities. included trips to the Minnesota Zoo, Agricul- “It’s really tough to ture Department, Board of Animal Health, sit here and make bud- Department of Natural Resources, Office get recommendations of Environmental Assistance and Pollution when everyone is coming Control Agency. through your door with All of this activity “took abstract spread- good ideas and a pas- sheets and information sheets that are very sion for what they do,” dry and black and white and translated them said Rep. Doug Magnus into a much more meaningful way to picture (R-Slayton). A tour can the things you are being asked to fund,” said reveal duplicate efforts Rep. Sheldon Johnson (DFL-St. Paul). He said or synergism among pro- the tours left him with “a deeper appreciation grams, he said. of some of the fi ne work that is being done Committee members by some of these agencies and state-funded learned a number of organizations.” things at the Science Museum, some scientifi c and some fi nancial. Where to fi nd information The fi lm they viewed is the fi rst project to cre- House Public Information Services ate a three-dimensional 175 State Offi ce Building movie from the images (651) 296-2146 or 1-800-657-3550 and data sent back from House Public Information Services is a nonpartisan offi ce that provides committee the Red Planet. The mu- meeting schedules; legislator information; seum, Jolly said, played and publications, including the Session Weekly a key role in getting the newsmagazine, educational brochures, and Mars information from member directories. All information is avail- NASA databases to the able at no charge. big screen. Most of what this offi ce publishes can be Museum benefactors viewed on the Legislature’s World Wide Web PHOTO BY ANDREW VONBANK often earmark dona- page. To connect, point your web browser at: Members of the House Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources http://www.leg.mn Finance Committee look at a collection of deformed frogs during a tions for projects rather Jan. 25 tour of the Science Museum of Minnesota. than operating expenses,

18 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 ILL INTRODUCTIONS F EBRUARY 7 - 10, 2005 B ★ ★ ★ HOUSE FILES 785 - 977

Monday, February 7 HF795—Urdahl (R) HF808—Smith (R) Agriculture, Environment & Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs HF785—Krinkie (R) Natural Resources Finance Private contracting for previously public services Taxes Agricultural pesticides in groundwater and surface standards and procedures established and public Property tax rate increases prohibited for taxes water monitoring provided and money appropriated. accountability provided. payable in 2006 and certain subsequent years, in- creases in fees prohibited, reimbursement provided HF796—Heidgerken (R) HF809—Dorn (DFL) to local governments for tax and fee increases and Agriculture, Environment & Education Policy & Reform money appropriated. Natural Resources Finance Health, safety and environmental management Alternative livestock production programs funding cost modifi ed for school districts. HF786—McNamara (R) provided and money appropriated. Environment & Natural Resources HF810—Dorn (DFL) Sale of tax-forfeited lands bordering public HF797—Bradley (R) Education Finance waters proceeds disposition modifi ed, riparian Taxes Class size ratios formula and class size reduction land enhancement account created and money Rochester sales and use tax revenue uses specifi ed. revenue allocation restored to former methods. appropriated. HF798—Westerberg (R) HF811—Hortman (DFL) HF787—McNamara (R) Transportation Finance Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Environment & Natural Resources Trunk Highway 65 improvements funding provided Military assistance trust fund created, fund uses Road easement across state lands application fee to facilitate bus rapid transit, bonds issued and specifi ed and money appropriated. required, land management account established money appropriated. and money appropriated. HF812—Brod (R) HF799—Anderson, I. (DFL) Civil Law & Elections HF788—McNamara (R) Jobs & Economic Voter registration outreach and solicitation training Agriculture, Environment & Opportunity Policy & Finance provided, numbering of applications required and Natural Resources Finance Koochiching County; Grand Mound interpretive distribution provided. Tree seedlings surcharge established and money center renovation funding provided, bonds issued appropriated. and money appropriated. HF813—Sykora (R) Environment & Natural Resources HF789—Cox (R) HF800—Nelson, M. (DFL) School trust land construction aggregate evaluation Environment & Natural Resources Commerce & Financial Institutions provided and money appropriated. Administrative penalty orders and civil penal- Peddlers and door-to-door solicitors regulated. ties provided for violations of state waters laws, HF814—Cornish (R) implementation plan required and rulemaking HF801—Dempsey (R) Environment & Natural Resources exemption provided. Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Hubbard, Lake and Wabasha counties private sale A House resolution memorializing Congress to of surplus land authorized. HF790—Wardlow (R) propose an amendment to the United States Con- Health Policy & Finance stitution, for ratifi cation by the states, specifying HF815—Kahn (DFL) Veterans home admission eligibility expanded to the Congress and the states shall have the power Local Government include certain Minnesota residents who provided to prohibit desecration of the fl ag. City councils required to vote on charter commis- m i l it a r y a s si s t a nc e to t he Un ite d St ate s a r me d forc e s sion recommendations for charter amendments in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War era. HF802—Davnie (DFL) by ordinance. Education Policy & Reform HF791—Zellers (R) Minneapolis excluded from the Teachers Tenure HF816—Kahn (DFL) Regulated Industries Act. Civil Law & Elections Video game of chance defi nition modifi ed. Nonpartisan legislative offi ces provided and state HF803—Juhnke (DFL) elections campaign fund allocation modifi ed. HF792—Sertich (DFL) Regulated Industries Commerce & Financial Institutions Raffl e defi nition modifi ed. HF817—Erickson (R) Securities, mortgage originators and servicers, Education Policy & Reform athlete agents and contractor’s recovery fund HF804—Cornish (R) School districts authorized to hold operating refer- regulated. Taxes endum for a proposed facility at the same time as a Biomass fuel stoves sales tax exemption provided. referendum to fund the proposed facility. HF793—Thao (DFL) Jobs & Economic HF805—Dorn (DFL) HF818—Kahn (DFL) Opportunity Policy & Finance Regulated Industries Civil Law & Elections Newly arrived refugees and asylees exempted from Mankato on-sale liquor license authorized for the L oc a l u n it s of gover n ment aut hor i z e d to per m it per- participating in the diversionary work program Midwest Wireless Civic Center. manent resident non-citizens to vote in local elections and allowed to enter directly into the Minnesota and constitutional amendment proposed. Family Investment Program. HF806—Cornish (R) Education Policy and Reform HF819—Thissen (DFL) HF794—Howes (R) School district and employee notification of Commerce & Financial Institutions Taxes students with a violent history immunity from State-funded reinsurance provided for small em- Homestead resorts property valuation and liability provided. ployer health coverage and money appropriated. deferment provided. HF807—Davids (R) HF820—Paulsen (R) Taxes Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Chatfi eld wastewater treatment facility construc- Initiative and referendum provided by proposed tion materials sales tax exemption provided. constitutional amendment.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 19 HF821—Blaine (R) violations added to driving record and license plates license requirements, waterfowl restrictions, dog Agriculture, Environment & required on ATVs. training, trapping provisions, raccoon hunting, and Natural Resources Finance related issues and money appropriated. Wildlife lands in lieu of tax payments requirements HF834—Dittrich (DFL) modifi ed. Education Policy & Reform HF848—Smith (R) School district authority granted to offer certain Public Safety Policy & Finance HF822—Blaine (R) rewards to persons who provide information that Public defender representation limited to statuto- Education Policy and Reform leads to the apprehension and arrest of a person rily designated persons and public defender data Independent School District No. 482, Little Falls, or persons who have committed a crime against access provided. alley system for at-large election of school board school property, students or personnel. members provided. HF849—Zellers (R) HF835—Cornish (R) Transportation Finance HF823—Blaine (R) Taxes Osseo; Central Avenue and Jefferson Highway Environment & Natural Resources Local government aid formula modified for project bonds authorized. State Timber Act and standard measurements for specifi ed cities. wood modifi ed. HF850—Powell (R) HF836—Peppin (R) Transportation HF824—Blaine (R) Civil Law & Elections Vehicle-monitoring device installation in certain Agriculture, Environment & Abortion issue standards for Minnesota Constitution vehicles authorized. Natural Resources Finance and United States Constitution required to conform Forest suspense account receipts disposition and constitutional amendment proposed. HF851—Lenczewski (DFL) modifi ed. Taxes HF837—Smith (R) Metropolitan fi scal disparities program study HF825—Hilstrom (DFL) Health Policy & Finance required. Taxes Abortion on minors or certain other women Brooklyn Center tax increments expenditure notifi cation reporting required. HF852—Zellers (R) deadline extended. Transportation Finance HF838—Otremba (DFL) Osseo; Central Avenue and Jefferson Highway HF826—Ozment (R) Health Policy & Finance project bonds issued and money appropriated. Environment & Natural Resources Unborn child pain prevention and criminal Clean Water Legacy Act established providing penalties provided. HF853—Kelliher (DFL) authority, direction and funding to achieve and Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs maintain water quality standards for surface waters HF839—Abeler (R) Minneapolis Employees Retirement Fund execu- in accordance with the federal Clean Water Act and Health Policy & Finance tive director exemption from political subdivision money appropriated. Prescription drug bulk purchasing provided. compensation limit provided, fund asset investment with State Board of Investment authorized and HF827—Greiling (DFL) HF840—Abeler (R) liquidity requirements modifi ed. Education Policy & Reform Health Policy & Finance World language programs state coordinator pro- Prescription drug wholesale distributor requirements HF854—Abeler (R) vided, grants provided to model extended world modifi ed. Health Policy & Finance languages programs and money appropriated. Physical therapy time limit prohibition eliminated. HF841—Vandeveer (R) HF828—Greiling (DFL) Transportation HF855—Abeler (R) Civil Law & Elections Ronald Reagan Beltway designation for interstates Health Policy & Finance Political parties receiving a public subsidy pro- 494 and 694 established. Antihemophilic factor drug exemption provision hibited from making independent expenditures, sunset removed. specifi ed funding available only to candidates who HF842—Solberg (DFL) agree to spending limits, spending limits imposed Environment & Natural Resources HF856—Dittrich (DFL) on caucuses and refund amount increased. Aitkin County; private sale of consolidated Transportation Finance conservation land authorized. Trunk Highway 610 completion bond usage HF829—Peppin (R) authorized and money appropriated. Health Policy & Finance HF843—Demmer (R) Shaking infants and young children dangers educa- Taxes HF857—Simpson (R) tion provided for parents, primary caregivers and Waste-to-energy resource recovery facility con- Transportation Finance child care providers. struction material sales tax exemption provided. Ottertail County; intersection traffic control improvements money appropriated. HF830—Mahoney (DFL) HF844—Knoblach (R) Environment & Natural Resources Capital Investment HF858—Wardlow (R) Soil and water conservation district supervisor St. Cloud; Paramount Theater city ownership Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs elections and appointments provided. provided and grant recipient modifi ed. Edward A. Burdick State Offi ce Building designation of State Offi ce Building authorized. HF831—Fritz (DFL) HF845—Lenczewski (DFL) Civil Law & Elections Taxes HF859—Holberg (R) Absentee ballot voting made easier. Alternative minimum income tax repealed. Transportation Dakota County Regional Railroad Authority de- HF832—Klinzing (R) HF846—Hoppe (R) velopment of bus rapid transit in Cedar Avenue Education Policy & Reform Education Policy & Reform transitway corridor authorized. School site governance program provided. Levy or bond referenda notice placement on ballot specifi ed. HF860—Eken (DFL) HF833—Hoppe (R) Agriculture, Environment & Natural Resources Environment & Natural Resources HF847—Hoppe (R) Finance Off-highway vehicle operation restrictions modi- Environment & Natural Resources Green Meadow Dam bonds issued and money fi ed, vehicle damage account availability extended, Game and fi sh regulations modifi ed, including appropriated. seizure and forfeiture of vehicles provided, specifi ed fi shing tags, scope usage, damage-causing animals,

20 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 HF861—Eken (DFL) HF874—Brod (R) HF887—Vandeveer (R) Education Finance Civil Law & Elections Taxes Fertile-Beltrami tax base levy adjustments modifi ed. State voting systems contract established and Income tax check-off provided to fund benefi ts for money appropriated from the Help America Vote survivors of law enforcement offi cers and fi refi ght- HF862—Eken (DFL) Act account. ers and to provide maintenance of peace offi cer and Agriculture, Environment & fi refi ghter memorials. Natural Resources Finance HF875—Abrams (R) Ada fl ood hazard mitigation grant bonds issued Taxes HF888—Vandeveer (R) and money appropriated. Cigarette cost mitigation fee established and health Transportation care provider tax repealed. Toll collection on a toll facility allowed only until all HF863—Eken (DFL) construction costs of the facility have been paid. Agriculture, Environment & HF876—Greiling (DFL) Natural Resources Finance Education Finance HF889—Vandeveer (R) Wi ld R ic e Watershe d D i s t r ic t fl ood storage easement Special education excessive costs state payment Transportation acquisition bonds issued and money appropriated. required. Tolls on public highways discontinued when original construction costs have been paid and HF864—Abrams (R) HF877—Simpson (R) constitutional amendment proposed. Education Finance Regulated Industries Special school breakfast and lunch diets based on Uniform off-sale liquor sales hours provided state- HF890—Vandeveer (R) religious beliefs of students cost payment provided wide and 10 a.m. Sunday on-sale authorized for Taxes and money appropriated. restaurants, clubs, bowling centers and hotels. Limited market value provisions extended to all property, limited market value made permanent HF865—Olson (R) HF878—Erickson (R) and separate limitation provided to certain property Civil Law & Elections Education Policy & Reform that is sold or transferred. Precinct boundary annexation procedures modifi ed. School districts authorized to determine the school year starting date. HF891—Thissen (DFL) HF866—Olson (R) Health Policy & Finance Taxes HF879—Samuelson (R) Prescription drug provisions under Medical Education tax credit for tuition expenses for certain Health Policy & Finance Assistance clarifi ed and modifi ed. school attendance authorized and family cap on Donated dental services program modifi ed, cov- education tax credit eliminated. ered services for Medical Assistance modifi ed and HF892—DeLaForest (R) money appropriated. Civil Law & Elections HF867—Olson (R) Campaign material unauthorized removal prohib- Education Policy & Reform HF880—Hortman (DFL) ited and penalty provided. American Heritage Education in Minnesota Public Civil Law & Elections Schools Act enacted. Sexual psychopathics and sexually dangerous HF893—Urdahl (R) persons civil commitment hearings time period Higher Education Finance HF868—Peterson, A. (DFL) extended. Child-care higher education grant maximum Environment & Natural Resources amount increased. Coyote (Canis latrans) destruction bounty provi- HF881—Urdahl (R) sion by county board authorized. Transportation HF894—Cox (R) Peace offi cers required to make all reasonable efforts Environment & Natural Resources HF869—Hortman (DFL) to contact parent or guardian of a cited minor. Public waters inventory authority, public waters Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs work permit and water use permit provisions and Military assistance trust fund created, rulemaking HF882—Thissen (DFL) enforcement authority modifi ed. authorized, constitutional amendment proposed Taxes and money appropriated. Employer postsecondary education expenses tax HF895—Anderson, I. (DFL) credit provided. Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs HF870—Thissen (DFL) Health coverage required for state employees to per- Health Policy & Finance HF883—Vandeveer (R) mit unrestricted choice of health care provider. P ubl ic ly f u nde d he a lt h prog r a m appl ic a nt employer Transportation disclosure required. Disabled American Veterans members specifi ed as eli- HF896—Buesgens (R) gible for special veterans service group license plates. Education Finance HF871—Seifert (R) Pre-kindergarten through grade 12 education, Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs HF884—Vandeveer (R) early childhood and families, general education, Day training and habilitation services provider Transportation education excellence, special education, facilities participation in state cooperative purchasing agree- Tolls on highways and new tolls on bridges prohibit- and technology, early childhood family support ments authorized; certain facilities and extended ed through proposed constitutional amendment. and prevention measures provided. employment and services provider’s inclusion in agency acquisition process provided. HF885—Vandeveer (R) HF897—Abeler (R) Taxes Health Policy & Finance Death tax; Congress memorialized, by resolution, Mental health epidemiological studies directed, to permanently repeal the death tax. mental health epidemiologist provided within the Thursday, February 10 Department of Health and money appropriated. HF886—Vandeveer (R) HF872—Sykora (R) Transportation HF898—Sertich (DFL) Education Finance Toll road construction and single-occupant vehicle Commerce & Financial Institutions Operating referendum ballot language simplifi ed. tolls on high-occupancy vehicle lanes authoriza- Unemployment insurance federal requirement tions repealed and new tolls or toll road construc- conformity and technical corrections provided. HF873—Emmer (R) tion prohibited. Taxes St. Michael tax increment financing district authorized.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 21 HF899—Buesgens (R) HF912—Beard (R) HF926—Davids (R) Local Government Transportation Health Policy & Finance State auditor authorized to waive certain rules and Motorized foot scooters defi ned and use and opera- Houston County nursing facility Medical Assis- laws applying to local government units and grants tion regulated. tance reimbursement rates increased. board created to fund cooperative efforts in public service delivery. HF913—Beard (R) HF927—Sieben (DFL) Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Commerce & Financial Institutions HF900—Cornish (R) State employee group insurance plan provisions Gift certifi cates and gift cards regulated and rem- Environment & Natural Resources modifi ed. edies provided. Landowner’s bill of rights for sales to the state, internal improvement land sales provisions and HF914—Beard (R) HF928—Soderstrom (R) land exchange provisions modifi ed and money Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Public Safety Policy & Finance appropriated. Teacher retirement additional benefi t provided for Parole board established and regulations provided, a specifi ed teacher. parole eligibility prescribed, board authorized to HF901—Cornish (R) determine civil commitment status of Level III sex Environment & Natural Resources HF915—Beard (R) offenders and money appropriated. Burn permits electronic issuance authorized, Transportation fees provided, account established and money Aeronautics transportation provisions clarifi ed. HF929—Smith (R) appropriated. Public Safety Policy & Finance HF916—Opatz (DFL) Identity theft penalties modifi ed, minimum restitu- HF902—Ozment (R) Higher Education Finance tion payments specifi ed and information provided Environment & Natural Resources Minnesota State University, Rochester established to victims of identity theft. Natural Resources Department gifts to the public on the property of Rochester Community and to promote conservation value limit increased, state Technical College, planning report required, bonds HF930—Anderson, B. (R) park permit provisions modifi ed, fee disposition issued and money appropriated. State Government Finance provided and money appropriated. Camp Ripley; Minnesota National Guard Youth HF917—Liebling (DFL) Camp operation and staffi ng funding provided HF903—Sykora (R) Higher Education Finance and money appropriated. Education Policy & Reform University of Minnesota and Mayo Clinic collab- Charter schools authorized to limit admission to orative research facility funding provided, bonds HF931—Anderson, B. (R) chemically dependent students. issued and money appropriated. Transportation Local ordinances discriminating among motor HF904—Blaine (R) HF918—Paulsen (R) vehicles with a certain gross vehicle weight pro- Agriculture, Environment & Jobs & Economic hibited. Natural Resources Finance Opportunity Policy & Finance Bowles recreational center funding provided, bonds Job training program grant provisions modifi ed, HF932—Seifert (R) issued and money appropriated. funding provided and money appropriated. Health Policy & Finance Residency information collection required on ap- HF905—Rukavina (DFL) HF919—Cox (R) plicants of certain human services programs. Local Government Taxes County boards authorized to contract for the sale Income tax surcharge provided and money HF933—Loeffl er (DFL) of biomass. appropriated. Commerce & Financial Institutions Motor Vehicle Retail Installment Sales Act HF906—Nelson, P. (R) HF920—Cox (R) recodifi ed. Civil Law & Elections Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Polling place size and number of voting booths Northfi eld Hospital pension benefi ts provided HF934—Brod (R) minimums specifi ed, signage required and ad- upon privatization. Regulated Industries ditional election judges provided. Compulsive gambling prevention and education HF921—Murphy (DFL) funding provided and money appropriated. HF907—Nelson, P. (R) Higher Education Finance Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Regent Candidate Advisory Council abolished. HF935—Poppe (DFL) Duplicate election certifi cates for legislators provid- Public Safety Policy & Finance ed and records fi led with the secretary of state. HF922—Hilty (DFL) Child endangerment crime expanded to include Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs manufacturing controlled substances in the pres- HF908—Eastlund (R) Leave of absence provision for public offi cials ence of a child. Public Safety Policy & Finance expanded to include elected tribal government CriMNet policy group reformed. offi cials. HF936—Johnson, J. (R) Civil Law & Elections HF909—Klinzing (R) HF923—Holberg (R) News media access to polling places increased. Taxes Transportation Prepared food defi nition amended to exclude ice Transportation Department property transaction HF937—Goodwin (DFL) cream cakes relating to sales tax. provisions modifi ed, highway routes changed and Health Policy & Finance removed and clarifying changes provided. Medical Assistance covered services modifi ed. HF910—Otremba (DFL) Health Policy & Finance HF924—Otremba (DFL) HF938—Garofalo (R) Traumatic brain injury waivered services program Health Policy & Finance Commerce & Financial Institutions caseload growth limits established and money MinnesotaCare gross income defi nition modifi ed. Real estate document pilot project continuation, appropriated. extension, validation and Web posting provided. HF925—Gazelka (R) HF911—Ellison (DFL) Commerce & Financial Institutions HF939—Seifert (R) Taxes Medicare related coverage federal conformity; Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Lead hazard reduction property tax valuation fi nancial solvency regulation for standalone Medi- Professional licensure law and rule modifi cation exclusion provided. care Part D prescription drug plans and related notice required. technical changes provided.

22 Session Weekly February 11, 2005 HF940—Seifert (R) HF953—Finstad (R) HF966—Klinzing (R) Public Safety Policy & Finance Health Policy & Finance Education Policy & Reform Private prison housing proposal requests required. Abortion alternative grants and public information School admission at younger age permitted. provided, Positive Alternatives Act created and HF941—Koenen (DFL) money appropriated. HF967—Klinzing (R) Health Policy & Finance Education Finance Hearing Aid Dispenser Act modifi ed. HF954—Finstad (R) Classroom contribution refund authorized and Health Policy & Finance money appropriated. HF942—Westrom (R) Abortion alternative grants and public information Regulated Industries provided, Positive Alternatives Act created and HF968—Kahn (DFL) Natural gas utility infrastructure replacement cost money appropriated. Regulated Industries recovery authorized. Sports wagering and sports wagering pool game HF955—Seifert (R) established by state lottery, sports bookmaking HF943—Lanning (R) Jobs & Economic licenses authorized, tax imposed and Minnesota Taxes Opportunity Policy & Finance active recreation fund established. Military Family Tax Relief Act of 2003 conformity Tobacco product non-use and use cessation state provided. health care program and MFIP eligibility require- HF969—Erickson (R) ments established. Education Policy & Reform HF944—Emmer (R) Interdisciplinary teachers licensed, innovative Civil Law & Elections HF956—Seifert (R) schools and programs encouraged and rulemak- Employment-related boards meeting conduct by Health Policy & Finance ing provided. telephone or other electronic means authorized. Children’s therapeutic services and support diag- nostic assessment requirement modifi ed. HF970—Greiling (DFL) HF945—Erhardt (R) Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Transportation HF957—Klinzing (R) Teachers Retirement Association; grandparenting Highway sign program billing authorized, business Jobs & Economic of certain career-end school administrator salary signs criteria modifi ed, quiet zones provisions modi- Opportunity Policy & Finance arrangements provided. fi ed, commuter rail corridor coordinating committee Montessori child-care provider assistance rate sunset removed and money appropriated. bonus provided. HF971—Garofalo (R) Public Safety Policy & Finance HF946—Abrams (R) HF958—Ellison (DFL) Designated offense definition expanded and Transportation Finance Civil Law & Elections seizures and forfeitures of computers and related International economic development zone and tax Hennepin County; duplicate campaign fi nance property addressed. incentives provided, report required and money fi lings eliminated and other technical changes appropriated. provided. HF972—Howes (R) Taxes HF947—Klinzing (R) HF959—Sailer (DFL) Homestead resort property tax class rate reduced. Health Policy & Finance Education Finance Optional record of birth resulting in stillbirth Independent School District No. 32, Blackduck, HF973—Demmer (R) provided. high school student retention program funding Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs provided and money appropriated. State employment provisions modifi ed. HF948—Murphy (DFL) Commerce & Financial Institutions HF960—Hoppe (R) HF974—Erhardt (R) Broadcast employer non-compete provisions in Taxes Transportation employment agreements prohibited. Carver County; justice center construction materi- Peace offi cer operation of any vehicle or combina- als sales tax exemption provided. tion of vehicles authorized. HF949—Clark (DFL) Health Policy & Finance HF961—Seifert (R) HF975—Slawik (DFL) Hearing aid user consumer protection increased. Governmental Operations & Veterans Aff airs Civil Law & Elections Nonprofi t organizations receiving grants or ap- College student voter registration facilitated. HF950—Westerberg (R) propriations from the state disclosure requirements Jobs & Economic imposed. HF976—Slawik (DFL) Opportunity Policy & Finance Jobs & Economic Youth intervention program requirements modi- HF962—Abeler (R) Opportunity Policy & Finance fi ed, grants-in-aid funding provided and money Education Policy & Reform Crisis nursery grant program established. appropriated. Acoustical performance criteria included in school district proposal to construct a facility. HF977—Larson (DFL) HF951—Beard (R) Health Policy & Finance Local Government HF963—Smith (R) Alcohol and drug counselors for city, county and Airports or aviation system separate plan require- Public Safety Policy & Finance state agencies licensure modifi ed. ment removed and Metropolitan Council and Strangulation of family or household member crime Metropolitan Airports Commission planning established and penalties provided. administration provisions repealed. HF964—Abrams (R) HF952—Finstad (R) Taxes Moving? Health Policy & Finance MinnesotaCare tax contingent adjustment provided. Please help save postage costs by keeping us Abortion alternative grants and public information informed of address changes. provided, Positive Alternatives Act created and HF965—Dean (R) Call (651) 296-2146 or (800) 657-3550. money appropriated. Higher Education Finance Century College remodeling funding provided, bonds issued and money appropriated.

February 11, 2005 Session Weekly 23 MINNESOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES 175 STATE OFFICE BUILDING ST. P AUL, MN 55155-1298

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE: S TEVE SVIGGUM MAJORITY LEADER: E RIK PAULSEN MINORITY LEADER: M ATT ENTENZA

INNESOTA M INDEX FOR MORE INFORMATION Placing a bet For general information, call: House Public Information Services offi ce Percent of Minnesotans who have gambled in their lifetime ...... 95 (651) 296-2146 or In 1993 ...... 87 1-800-657-3550 Percent of Minnesota adults who have gambled in the past year ...... 83 Percent who played the state lottery ...... 60 To subscribe to Session Weekly online: Percent who played at a casino ...... 41 http://www.house.mn/hinfo/subscribesw.asp Billions wagered on charitable gaming in fi scal year 2004 ...... $1.4 To obtain a copy of a bill, call: Percent of which was pull-tabs ...... 93.1 Chief Clerk’s Offi ce Gross pull-tab profi t, in millions, after prizes were paid in fi scal year 2004 ...... $233.5 (651) 296-2314 State lottery sales (in millions) in fi scal year 2004 ...... $386.9 Sales per capita ...... $76.46 To fi nd out about bill introductions or Millions transferred to the state ...... $100.7 the status of a specifi c bill, call: Percent increase from 2003 ...... 26.8 House Index Offi ce Percent of those dollars directed to the state’s General Fund and the (651) 296-6646 Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, respectively ...... 60,40 Millions contributed by the lottery to the Department of Human Services For an after hours recorded message for problem gambling treatment and prevention from 1990 to 2004 ...... $18.4 giving committee meeting times and States, including Minnesota, that fund problem gambling programs ...... 16 agendas, call: Committee Hotline Millions in state funding in the 2004-05 biennium for the Department of (651) 296-9283 Human Services’ Compulsive Gambling Treatment Program ...... $2.98 Individuals who received state-funded treatment in fi scal year 2003 ...... 873 The House of Representatives can be found Number of treatment provider agencies registered with the on the Web at: http://www.house.mn Human Services Department ...... 74 Average attendance for live racing in 2004 at Canterbury Park ...... 4,977 Teletypewriter for the hearing impaired. Percent increase from 2003 ...... 3.6 To ask questions or leave messages, call: All-sources handle (live on-track, live out-of-state and simulcast) TTY Line (651) 296-9896 or In 2004, in millions ...... $53.06 1-800-657-3550 Overall percent increase from 2003 ...... 13.6 Live on-track percent increase ...... 2.1 Check your local listings to watch televi- Casinos in state operated by tribes ...... 18 sion coverage of House committees and fl oor sessions. Billions, as approximate, put into Minnesota’s economy since 1990 from tribal gaming .....$8 Approximate number of jobs in Minnesota that are associated with tribal gaming .....14,000 Senate Information Percent held by non-Indians ...... 78 (651) 296-0504 1-888-234-1112 Millions generated in payroll and benefi ts annually by tribal gaming ...... $278 Payroll taxes paid by tribes, in millions ...... $81 Senate Index Millions paid annually by tribes to local governments for services provided ...... $16 (651) 296-5560

Sources: Gambling Oversight and Regulation, January 2005, Offi ce of the Legislative Auditor; This document can be made available in alternative Annual Report 2004, Minnesota State Lottery; Canterbury Park; Minnesota Indian Gaming formats to individuals with disabilities by calling Association; Northstar Roundtable, Winter 2004, Northstar Problem Gambling Alliance; North (651) 296-2146 voice, (651) 296-9896 TTY, or American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries; Gambler’s Relief. (800) 657-3550 toll free voice and TTY.