a nonpartisan publication ★ ★ ★ ESSION S Weekly MINNESOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES • PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES VOLUME 23, NUMBER 6 • April 7, 2006

Inside: Loons and eagles, House rumpus room, bonding plans, more

This Week’s Bill Introductions HF4068-HF4115 ESSION S Weekly Session Weekly is a nonpartisan publication of the Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services office. 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 Office Building Highlights 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155-1298 Agriculture • 5 Employment • 9 Law • 13 (651) 296-2146 or Banking • 6 Environment • 9 Local Government • 13 1-800-657-3550 Business • 6 Family • 9 Safety • 14 TTY (651) 296-9896 http://www.house.mn/hinfo/subscribesw.asp Children • 6 Government • 10 Taxes • 14 Consumers • 7 Greater Minnesota • 11 Technology • 15 Crime • 7 Health • 11 Transportation • 15 Director Barry LaGrave Development • 7 Higher Education • 12 Veterans • 17 Education • 8 Editor/Assistant Director Lee Ann Schutz Assistant Editor Bill Introductions (HF4069-HF4115) • 23 Mike Cook Art & Production Coordinator Paul Battaglia eatures Writers F Nick Busse, Patty Janovec, Bao Ong, Irene Voth First Reading: House lays out its bonding bill • 3 Chief Photographer Tom Olmscheid Feature: Business at the House no laughing matter • 18-19 Photographers Andrew VonBank, Sarah Stacke At Issue: The everything bill • 20 Staff Assistants Christy Novak, Rebekah Raymond At Issue: Pesticide report is good news, bad news • 21

Minnesota Index: Loons and eagles • 24 Session Weekly (ISSN 1049-8176) is pub- lished weekly during the legislative session by Minnesota House of Representatives Public Late Action: Gopher stadium, eminent domain • 17, 22 Information Services office, 175 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298. Periodicals postage paid at Minneapolis, Minn. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Session Weekly, Public Information Services office, 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: Jamilia Allison, 4, who attends Shining Star Learning Center in Minneapolis, peeks through the sign she brought to a March 30 Rotunda rally to increase funding for early childhood education.

­—Photo by: Tom Olmscheid

 April 7, 2006 irst reading F★ ★ ★

of very good things in the bill and that there is a good balance of priorities.” She predicts Bonding plan unveiled a “strong vote in the House.” House proposal is more than governor, less than Senate House Speaker Steve Sviggum (R-Kenyon). said he expects the bill to get 110 votes on the House floor. “I consider this a very, very balanced and By Mike Cook in total spending, with $989.92 million in a very, very prudent bill,” he said. “It doesn’t early $1 billion in bonding requests is general obligation bonds. max out the state’s credit card as the Senate expected to be before the full House A spreadsheet comparing the three bills does, it focuses in on infrastructure. … We NApril 12. is available at http://www.house.leg.state. are higher than the Senate in local roads; we’re Approved April 4 by the House Capital mn.us/fiscal/files/bond06.pdf. higher than the Senate in bridges.” Investment Committee, HF2959 calls for A $944.9 million measure was passed The following are parts of the House $949.27 million in general obligation bonds. last year after members failed to agree on a proposal, which Dorman said is broken When user-financed bonds are included, the proposal in 2004. Of that law, $885.9 million down with 35 percent for Greater Minnesota, bill totals $999.87 million. was in general obligation bonds. 35 percent for projects with statewide “The size of the bill goes to the quality of According to the Department of Finance, significance and 30 percent to the Twin Cities the bill,” said Rep. Dan Dorman (R-Albert “The state sells general obligation bonds into metropolitan area: Lea), the bill’s sponsor and committee chair. the marketplace. The proceeds from the sale of “What is in it justifies the larger number than the bonds are used to pay the cost of the capital Transit and transportation the governor.” projects that are approved by the Legislature.” The House bill calls for $60 million in local T h e governor’s proposa l t ot a l s The House proposal has received bipartisan bridge replacement and $22.5 million for $897.2 million, of which $811.1 million would support, and that is expected to continue local road improvement grants. The Senate be in general obligation bonds. when the entire body votes. numbers are $47.5 million and $10.9 million, Still, the Senate plan (SF3475), sponsored by Believing she was speaking for members respectively. Sen. Keith Langseth (DFL-Glyndon), trumps of her caucus, Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL-St. both proposals. It calls for $1.05 billion Paul) said, “We do believe there are a number First Reading continued on page 4

photo by tom olmscheid Terry Kuhlman, front center, executive director of the Public Facilities Authority of the Department of Employment and Economic Development, along with other public officials, lobbyists and special interests groups get their first look at the House capital investment bill April 4.

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly  First Reading continued from page 3 BONDING RECOMMENDATIONS COMPARISON

However, the Senate and governor proposals Category Governor House Senate allocate $60 million for the Northstar Higher Education $270.14 million $309.02 million $376 million commuter rail slated to run from downtown Wildlife area acquisition and improvement $15 million $18 million $10 million Minneapolis to Big Lake, $10 million more than the House proposal. Local bridge replacement $30 million $60 million $47.5 million “Last year we had $37.5 million in the final Local road improvement grants $10 million $22.5 million $10.9 million bill for the Northstar Corridor, all of which Faribault prison expansion $27.99 million $3 million $0 is still in the bank,” Dorman said. He also Wastewater Infrastructure Fund $15 million $23 million $20 million said that he called a federal person asking Bioscience development $10 million $16.7 million $2 million what would happen if just $50 million was allocated. “The reply was that at the end of Minnesota Zoo $21 million $9 million $8 million the day, whenever that is, and when we know Grants to political subdivisions $13 million $90.03 million $118.4 million what the numbers are, you’re going to have to Shubert Theater $0 $11 million $11 million have all your dough in place. They’re not sure Southwest regional events center $0 $12 million $0 if that number is $50 (million), $58 (million) State Capitol restoration $0 $1.8 million $3.18 million or $60 (million).” A project supporter, Dorman also expressed concern that negotiations are still ongoing Bill total $897.2 million $999.87 million $1.05 billion with Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railway General obligation bonds $811.1 million $949.27 million $989.92 million Company for using the tracks. “If those Source: House Fiscal Analysis Department negotiations aren’t concluded, my fear is that we will have tied up close to $100 million in bonding with a project that is not Higher Education stuff that’s important to moving this state going forward because we don’t have all the The House bill calls for $309.02 million in forward.” paperwork done.” higher education spending, about $68 million Also included in the $122.15 million for Rep Tim Mahoney (DFL-St. Paul) warned less than the Senate. environment and agriculture is $19.23 million that railroads can oftentimes slow down The House bill includes $187.69 million for for flood hazard mitigation grants, $18 million negotiations in hopes of getting as much the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities for wildlife area acquisition and improvement, money as they can from the state or federal (MnSCU) system. In addition to $40 million $10.7 million for trails and $8 million for government. for asset preservation, the House bill provides forest conservation easements. While appreciating the $50 million, Rep. funding for 20 other projects, including Kathy Tingelstad (R-Andover), a leading $32.9 million for a science building addition Corrections Northstar backer, warned that delaying this at Minnesota State University, Mankato and Each of the three proposals allocates project would only lead to greater costs. $19.9 million for a new science and library $19.58 million for a 150-bed segregation She said the negotiations are expected to building at Century College. unit at the Stillwater prison and nearly $5.38 be completed soon, and that $60 million is The plan calls for the University of million for expansion of the women’s prison needed for a full-funding grant agreement. Minnesota to receive $121.33 million, including in Shakopee, but neither the House nor Senate “I think we can really make a go this year to $40 million for a medical biosciences offer money for a security fence at the facility, completing the state’s commitment,” she said. building, $30 million in asset preservation, which many area residents do not want. The House and governor fully fund the $26.6 million for a Carlson School of The House is the lone plan providing Interstate 35 Bus Rapid Transit project with Management expansion and $15.33 million for $6.23 million for a vocational education $8.3 million; the Senate offers zero. The a Duluth business and economics building. building with a combined classroom and shop project includes two park-and-ride facilities The Senate is $10 million higher in asset complex at the Red Wing juvenile facility. in Bloomington, one in Lakeville and a transit preservation, but funds just $13.3 million for That item has been low on the Department station at 46th Street in south Minneapolis. the Carlson school expansion. of Corrections list for at least a decade, said “The Senate thinks it’s a terrible project “We give them a whole school, not half a Deputy Commissioner Dennis Benson. and is not concerned about the traffic on 35 school,” Dorman said. “That’s one of those projects that everybody through the suburbs and south Minneapolis, seems to like ,” Dorman said. “By investing in but we think it’s a good opportunity,” Dorman Environment and agriculture that building and actually finishing it, we may said. “For those of you that think it’s a good “We’re a little greener than the Senate,” not need as much bed space in the future.” opportunity, contact your senator and say, Dorman said. “We’ve got $14.5 million ‘What the heck?’” in the bill for projects that are part of the Animals and sports facilities “Minneapolis is supportive of the 35W BRT Clean Water Legacy.” He also said the “We love zoos,” Dorman said. “You got the project, so thank you for seeing the wisdom House allocates more to the Department of Apple Valley zoo, you got the Como Zoo, you of that project and putting it in your bill,” Natural Resources, Board of Water and Soil got the Duluth zoo and our friends at the Little said Rep. Margaret Anderson Kelliher (DFL- Resources and the Wastewater Infrastructure Falls Zoo. You ever been to the Little Falls Zoo, Mpls). Fund. “People aren’t going to put on their poor bear in the cage there? We’re getting him Each proposal calls for $5 million for a re-election brochures that they voted for this out of the cage. A tough life for that bear.” Cedar Avenue Bus Rapid Transit Corridor great bonding bill because it had extra money in the south Twin Cities metropolitan area for wastewater infrastructure, but that’s the Bonding continued on page 22 suburbs.  Session Weekly April 7, 2006 ighlights M a r c h 3 0 - A p r i l 6 , 2 0 0 6 H★ ★ ★ AGRICULTURE A companion bill (SF3314), sponsored by possible impact of the modified species on the ★ Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy), awaits native species and to plan their response. action by the Senate Finance Committee. Supporters spoke of the Ojibwe’s desire to Fluid conversion allowance program preserve the native strains unadulterated, so Inside the gray cylinders of electrical Protecting wild rice integrity wild rice can continue to occupy its traditional transformers is a non-conductive fluid that One critic called the bill a “solution looking place in the Ojibwe culture and spirituality, cools and insulates its internal workings. for a problem.” But that hasn’t deterred Rep. and its more recently developed place in the Almost all of the fluid used, estimated to Frank Moe (DFL-Bemidji) from proceeding tribes’ economies. be 75 million gallons annually in the United with what he is passionate about — protecting Opponents said the bill was unnecessary States, is petroleum based. wild rice. because the department already has a structure HF3273, sponsored by Rep. Greg Davids That passion is translated into a bill, in place to assess the possible impact of (R-Preston), may help change that. HF3915, which he sponsors to protect the genetically engineered plants, including wild Davids told the House Agriculture, genetic integrity of the native strains of rice. Others said passage of the bill would send Environment and Natural Resources wild rice that have spiritual and cultural a global message that genetic modification Finance Committee March 30 that the bill significance to the state’s Ojibwe people. biotechnology is not welcome in Minnesota. creates an allowance program within the After receiving testimony for parts of On April 4 and April 5, the committee Department of Agriculture to fund qualifying three days, the House Agriculture and approved “delete-all” amendments brought electric utilities that desire financial aid to Rural Development Committee approved forward by Moe. The bill now requires transition to a higher-performance, soy- the bill as amended April 5 and referred only that the Agriculture and Natural based, environmentally friendly fluid called it to the House Rules and Legislative Resources departments examine the need Envirotemp® FR3™, manufactured by Administration Committee. A companion for a study regarding the two native strains Minnesota-based Cargill. bill (SF3575), sponsored by Sen. Becky of wild rice, zizania aquatica and zizania The bill was laid over for possible inclusion Lourey (DFL-Kerrick), awaits action by the palustris. The study would examine any in the committee’s supplemental finance Senate Agriculture, Veterans and Gaming decline in their populations, arguments bill. Committee. for and against maintaining the genetic Those testifying for the bill spoke of Minneso- Originally, the bill required the integrity of the strains and how it could best ta’s leadership in initiating the use of bio-prod- Department of Agriculture to impose a two- be maintained. The agencies would also ucts, such as soy-based ink — now used almost year moratorium on the release, planting, compose recommendations regarding possible universally in newsprint — and biodiesel fuel. importation or sale of genetically engineered responses to their findings and report to both The soy-based fluid initially costs more wild rice in the state in the event an application the Legislature and the Ojibwe tribes. than the petroleum-based fluid, said Tom to plant a test plot was made anywhere in the “I’m not an opponent of genetically Johnson, sales engineer for Cooper Power United States. The moratorium was intended modified organisms,” Moe said, adding he Systems, which manufactures electrical to give the state agencies time to assess — in is not asking for a moratorium on research equipment that uses the soy-based fluid. consultation with the Ojibwe people — the related to genetic modifications of wild Johnson said the soy-based fluid does not ignite unless heated to 360 degrees — a much higher temperature than the petroleum-based fluid — which greatly reduces the likelihood transformers will burst into flames. He said it is also more compatible with the paper insulation components of transformers and actually increases the equipment’s longevity, thus reducing maintenance costs. Johnson said the fluid has distinct environmental advantages, in that it totally biodegrades in 99 days; it is renewable; and it has been determined by the Environmental Protection Agency to be non-hazardous to trout, which are extremely sensitive to environmental pollutants. Rep. Doug Magnus (R-Slayton) told the committee “a lot of work has been put into this by the soybean check-off,” which is a marketing program of the United Soybean Board. “A lot of the other states in the United States that are involved in the soybean check-off and photo by tom olmscheid production and membership in the soybean Winona LaDuke, director of the White Earth Land Recovery Project, testifies before the House growers association are closely watching what Agriculture and Rural Development Committee March 28 on a two-year moratorium on genetically we do here in Minnesota,” he said. engineered wild rice.

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly  rice. Nor is he necessarily opposed to the CHILDREN introduction of modified wild rice in the state, ★ but said its introduction should be delayed until its impact can be assessed and possible Third party payments responses developed. Rep. Nora Slawik (DFL-Maplewood) said child care assistance costs continue to rise and any measures to cut those costs should BANKING be taken. ★ Sponsored by Slawik, HF3944, would allow a third party to pay all or part of a family’s New banking facility child care assistance fee. The money paid on Gov. Tim Pawlenty signed a a family’s behalf would not be considered as Signed new law April 5 that will permit part of their income or affect their eligibility by a new bank to open in Shamrock for assistance. the Township. governor On April 5, the House Jobs and Economic ★ ★ ★ Rep. Loren Solberg (DFL- Opportunity Policy and Finance Committee Grand Rapids) and Sen. Tom held the bill over for possible inclusion in its Saxhaug (DFL-Grand Rapids) sponsor the new omnibus bill. A companion bill (SF3615), law. It goes into effect the day after Shamrock sponsored by Sen. John Hottinger (DFL-St. Township complies with the provisions set out Peter) awaits action by the full Senate. in the law. The Shamrock Town Board has Currently, some third parties help families already indicated its support. pay for child care because the costs keep The law authorizes the State Bank of increasing, said Slawik. But according to McGregor, located in McGregor, to operate a current law, the Department of Human separate facility in Shamrock Township, with Services counts that money as family income, approval of the commerce commissioner. which sometimes makes families ineligible A bank that wants to open a new branch for certain services. She said the bill was a photo by andrew vonbank in a township needs permission from the “tweak” to the current system and would help Legislature. This is the second exemption in Rep. Jeff Johnson shows members of the House parents afford quality child care. Public Safety Policy and Finance Committee ex- two years. The department, which administers many amples of violent video games April 4 during dis- During a March 14 House Commerce and of the state’s child care programs, has no cussion of a bill that would bar anyone under age Financial Institutions Committee hearing, objections to the bill. 17 from renting or purchasing graphic games. Rep. Greg Davids (R-Preston) asked if other banks approved of the new facility. Jonathan was sent to the House floor. It was approved Passer, a loan officer at the bank, said there is Video game purchases, rentals by the Senate 51-10 last year. a credit union in town but that the next closest One of the most popular video games on “My intent with the legislation is not to bank to McGregor is 24 miles away. the market is “Postal 2.” make criminals out of kids, and it’s not to raise HF2709/SF2523/CH174. “That’s a serial killer game where you score money for the state $25 at a time, because I points by killing as many people as you can in suspect none, or little, of that will happen,” BUSINESS lots of different gory ways, but there’s a twist to Johnson said. “I’m hopeful that the new law ★ this game,” said Rep. Jeff Johnson (R-Plymouth). and the signs will, at the very least, get the Gas station exemption “You actually get extra points in this game if you attention of some painfully oblivious parents urinate in your victim’s mouth before you kill The House unanimously approved a bill in Minnesota who are paying absolutely no him or her. You can even open fire on a gay pride April 3 that would provide an exemption to attention to what their kids are playing on march, a minority community celebration or a the state’s gasoline franchising law. their video game machines at home.” parade of police officers.” HF3747, sponsored by Rep. Dean Simpson (R- Johnson said many retailers already restrict Johnson said the game’s description, and New York Mills), now goes to the Senate, where access to children under age 17. those of some other popular games, makes Sen. Dan Sparks (DFL-Austin) is the sponsor. Deborah Buyer, senior associate general him sick to his stomach, knowing youth across Simpson said current laws prevent smaller counsel for the Entertainment Software the state are playing them regularly. gas stations from posting brand name Association, said parents purchase these He and Sen. Sandy Pappas (DFL-St. signs unless they meet a minimum sales games 83 percent of the time, and that the Paul) are sponsoring HF1298/SF785* that requirement. Gas stations, especially in average age of players is 30. would prohibit people under the age of 17 rural Minnesota, struggle to meet those She also warned that the bill could be from renting or purchasing video games requirements and cannot advertise any kind unlawful. that are rated Adults Only or Mature by the of brand name postings. The bill allows these “Six federal courts in the past five years, entertainment software industry. The offense gas stations to put up a sign that could read including the 7th and 8th Circuit Court of would be considered a petty misdemeanor, “Dean’s Corner Gas,” Simpson said. Appeals, have ruled that statues designed to and the minor could be charged a $25 fine. Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL-Rochester) regulate violent games are unconstitutional. Retailers would be required to post a sign that questioned what kind of impact the bill In 2005, federal district courts in Illinois, is clearly visible regarding the restriction. would have on consumers. It would mainly Michigan and California granted injunctions Approved April 5 by the House Public help smaller gas stations stay in business, and preventing this type of regulation from Safety Policy and Finance Committee, the bill would not affect consumers, said Simpson. becoming law.”

 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 Johnson said he has “tried to craft a bill CRIME “If the neglect results in the death of a that is extremely narrowly tailored, and could ★ vulnerable adult, the caregiver may receive withstand a constitutional objection.” imprisonment of not more than 10 years Pilot project funding or payment of not more than $20,000, or People seeking to turn their lives around both,” Peppin said. If the neglect results in CONSUMERS after serving time in prison could receive substantial bodily harm or the risk of death, ★ some assistance. the caregiver could receive up to five years in HF3812, sponsored by Rep. Judy prison, a $10,000 fine or both. Omnibus liquor bill Soderstrom (R-Mora), would appropriate Currently, it is a gross misdemeanor for In the future, you may be able to have a glass $700,000 in fiscal year 2007 for a grant to the neglect of a vulnerable adult, with a penalty of wine while learning to cook a new culinary Correctional Transition Services, Inc. The topping out at one year in prison or a $3,000 delight, or a beer after a round of golf at the grant would fund a pilot project focusing fine. The maximum penalty for mistreating New Prague Municipal Golf Course. on offender reentry programs. It specifies an animal, resulting in death or great bodily From bed-and-breakfasts to an off-sale that the appropriation must be evenly split harm, is four years behind bars and a $10,000 facility next to the grocery store proposed between transitional housing programs and fine. for downtown Minneapolis, the omnibus employment opportunity programs. Peppin told the committee about a Brooklyn liquor bill addresses alcohol-related issues on Heard April 4 by the House Jobs and Park man who was in charge of caring for his a local level. The House Regulated Industries Economic Opportunity Policy and Finance elderly mother, but neglected her when she Committee approved HF3940, sponsored by Committee, it will be considered for inclusion fell. “He brought her food and water, but he Rep. Joe Hoppe (R-Chaska), April 4. It awaits in the committee omnibus bill. There is no did not move her. She sat in the same spot action on the House floor. Senate companion. on the floor for more than a week, and she Minnesota wineries would benefit from Executive Director Paul Kustermann said sat in her own excrement. When authorities the bill by being allowed to produce fortified the program turns out motivated and trained were finally notified, this caused her to go wines, which by definition, is any product that employees, and contributes to reducing to the hospital and spend several weeks, I has alcohol or spirits added. the growth of prison beds by focusing on believe.” For his actions, the man was given Since 1980, Minnesota farmers have been eliminating the number of repeat offenders. probation. allowed to produce wine for sale. John Falconer, According to a 2004 Department of The committee’s omnibus bill last year owner of a vineyard What’s in the bill: Corrections study, 33 percent of released contained a similar provision that would and vice president of offenders are convicted of new felonies have applied to all caregivers and operators, the Minnesota Grape HF3940 within three years. The program offers but Peppin withdrew the language because Growers Association, HF3028 intervention and re-entry services by providing of concerns by hospital and nursing home said state wineries are HF2827 comprehensive “best practices” programming, representatives. “My preference would be to at a disadvantage to and works with the community to help these have them included, as well,” she said. producers in other states HF3322 HF3549 people, Kustermann said. John Lips, director of legal affairs for Care because they are not Rep. Karen Clark (DFL-Mpls) is concerned HF3275 Providers of Minnesota, said last year’s bill allowed to make fortified about offenders with chemical dependency HF3583 had no element of intentionality. wine products, such as issues because she said they are more likely to “Our concern was that there could be port wines. “We just want break the law again. Although Clark supports instances where a caregiver would make an to level the playing field here,” he said. the bill, she said it needs to work on addressing honest mistake — a judgment in an instance Culinary schools and retail stores selling treatment of the high number of chemically of delivering care — and could be subjected kitchen products would benefit as well, under dependent offenders. to much higher penalties,” he said. the bill. Rep. Connie Ruth (R-Owatonna) asked A companion bill (SF3598), sponsored by As the popularity of stores dedicated to if the state has a program in place to keep Sen. Warren Limmer (R-Maple Grove), awaits cooking has grown, so has the need to show chemical dependent offenders from being action by the Senate Crime Prevention and people how to pair wines to enhance the released until they have completed a treatment Public Safety Committee. “culinary experience,” retailer Brian Albrecht program. Soderstrom said there was none, and said. The bill would allow for a limited on-sale this program could be a model statewide. liquor license and allow the licensee to offer up DEVELOPMENT to a 1 ounce sample of wine in their stores. ★ The bill also includes a provision allowing Neglecting vulnerable adults for on-sale liquor licenses to concessionaires, Research facility funding Minnesotans can currently receive a caterers or restaurant operators at the The University of Minnesota hopes to tougher penalty for mistreating an animal Minnesota Book and Literary Arts Building; uphold the state’s reputation as a leader in the than for mistreating a vulnerable adult. allowance for wine licenses to be issued to bed- field of biomedical sciences. Sponsored by Rep. Joyce Peppin (R-Rogers), and-breakfasts with a licensed commercial HF3268, sponsored by Rep. Ron Abrams HF3235 would create new penalties for kitchen to serve guests attending events at (R-Minnetonka), would help the cause. criminal neglect of an adult committed by a the facility; and the ability for municipalities It would use $330 million in state general family member who has responsibility for that to have different off-sale hours for 3.2 and obligation bonds to pay for 90 percent of the person’s care. intoxicating liquor establishments. cost to construct and furnish biomedical The bill was held over March 30 by the A companion bill (SF3081), sponsored by research facilities at the university. The House Public Safety Policy and Finance Sen. Sandy Pappas (DFL-St. Paul), awaits university would pay for the remaining 10 Committee for possible inclusion in its action on the Senate floor. percent. The House Jobs and Economic omnibus bill.

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly  Opportunity Policy and Finance Committee approved the bill March 30, and referred it FFA day to the House Governmental Operations and Veterans Affairs Committee. If successful, five new research facilities, with a total of about 750,000-square-feet, would be built in 10 years at a total cost of $366 million. University President Robert Bruininks said the research facilities would bring economic and health benefits to the state, as well as advance biomedical research. The bill would also aid in recruiting and keeping faculty in the field. “We need to be diligent, as a state, if we want to maintain our competitive position and improve it for the future,” Bruininks said. Rep. Fran Bradley (R-Rochester) agreed the bill was important, but had questions about maintenance costs. Once built, Bruininks said the university would be responsible for operation expenses. While Rep. Karen Clark (DFL-Mpls) said she also believes in biomedical research, photo by tom olmscheid she wants to see more accountability in the Rep. Andy Westerberg, left, and Rep. Michael Beard, right, frame a group of Future Farmers of bill because manufacturers will oftentimes America as House members applaud the group that was on the House floor and in the gallery March charge high rates for products and attribute 30. FFA participants made their annual trip to the Capitol to meet with their legislators. it to expensive research and development costs. Committee Chair Rep. Bob Gunther it be comprehensive and not piecemeal. The bill, passed last year by the House (R-Fairmont) said some leeway should be “Transformation is really the point of this.” Education Policy and Reform Committee, given because, although some products are Funding for the program would be opened the discussion in the House expensive, they also save money. appropriated to districts participating in Education Finance Committee April 4 over Rep. Tony Sertich (DFL-Chisholm) said the program equal to $30 times the district’s accountability, and whether the development it was important for Minnesota to compete adjusted marginal cost pupil units. of charter schools is harming traditional with other states attempting to lead the way Schools would apply for funding to facilitate public schools. in the biomedical sciences. He said it is an their participation in the program, and the edu- Robert Aronson, legal counsel for the opportunity to create jobs statewide. cation commissioner would, to the extent fea- Minnesota Association of Secondary School A companion bill (SF3044), sponsored by sible, ensure equitable geographical distribution Principals and its counterpart for elementary Sen. Richard Cohen (DFL-St. Paul), awaits of approved applications, under an amendment principals, said the criteria for charter action by the Senate Finance Committee. successfully proposed by Buesgens, and adopted schools have evolved over the years. Speaking by the committee. in opposition to the bill, he said the first Rep. John Dorn (DFL-Mankato) questioned charter school sponsors were school districts EDUCATION the fairness of the appropriation distribution, in which the school was located. Then ★ stating that districts with larger populations nonprofits, meeting certain criteria, were Developing character could expend the total amount of money allowed as sponsors. There are now over 100 Rep. Mark Buesgens (R-Jordan) gave the allocated for the program. Urdahl said that charter schools in the state. He cautioned the House Education Finance Committee a little since the bill is to be laid over for possible committee, “If you have private corporations history lesson April 4 — a topic that he says inclusion in the committee omnibus bill, he running schools, as compared to publicly is his passion. would have time to work on a more equitable elected school boards, you run afoul of the This country’s Founding Fathers would distribution formula. Uniform System of Public Schools.” spend 80 percent to 90 percent of their A companion bill (SF2826), sponsored by Robert J. Wedl, director of Education Evolv- schooling time on ethics, values and character Sen. Tarryl Clark (DFL-St. Cloud), awaits ing, a joint venture of the Center for Policy development, where as today’s schools spend action on the Senate floor. Studies and Hamline University, said this bill less than 5 percent. “I think this is something calls for more accountability from organiza- we need to bring into balance,” he said. New sponsors for charter schools tions sponsoring charter schools. He said the Sponsored by Rep. Dean Urdahl (R-Grove The state could see more charter schools application process for this new classification City), HF3425 would work toward that goal by sponsored by private, nonprofit organizations, would be extensive, allowing for greater over- establishing a pilot program to provide approved under a bill sponsored by Rep. Matt Dean sight by the commissioner of education. character development education curriculum. (R-Dellwood). Rep. Jim Davnie (DFL-Mpls) responded, “If Larry McGuire, who represents a company HF1303 would create a new classification the need is greater for oversight over sponsoring that develops this type of curriculum, said of sponsors, allowing for up to five nonprofit organizations, why don’t we give the commis- the key to any program of this type is that organizations to come together to sponsor a sioner more authority,” instead of expanding charter school. the criteria for who can sponsor a charter?

 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 A companion bill, (SF1707), is sponsored EMPLOYMENT Timber contracts can be extended by Sen. Steve Kelley (DFL-Hopkins) was laid ★ C o n t r a c t s w i t h t h e over by the Senate Education Committee. Signed Department of Natural Living wage by Resources to harvest timber Although Minnesota’s minimum wage the from public lands can now be is higher than the federal standard, some governor Moratorium on school building ★ ★ ★ extended if needed, according to School districts with fewer than 500 legislators say it is still too low. legislation signed by Gov. Tim students could face a moratorium on any new HF3568, sponsored by Rep. Mike Jaros Pawlenty April 5. facilities. (DFL-Duluth), would impose a low-wage Rep. Greg Blaine (R-Little Falls) and Sen. Rep. Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson), compensation surtax on certain employers who Tom Saxhaug (DFL-Grand Rapids) sponsored brought (HF3952) to the House Education fail to pay full-time employees a living wage. the legislation that provides for the extension Finance Committee April 4 in response to a The bill defines “living wage” as $14 an hour, of timber contracts when adverse surface situation in the McLeod West School District, and would be adjusted annually for inflation. conditions limit the number of days harvesters which has a high school in Brownton and an From 2006 to 2008, only businesses employing can work. Harvesting equipment is prohibited elementary in Stewart. A referendum is set on more than 20 full-time employees would be from timberland unless the ground is frozen, whether a new, one-campus facility should subject to the wage standards, but all employers and deep snow can also restrict access. The be built, and this, according to Newman, would have to meet it by 2012. Employers new law takes effect immediately. is splitting the community apart. “I have offering their employees health insurance HF3039*/SF2632/CH175 neighbors fighting with neighbors, and family would be required to pay at least $11 an hour. members fighting family members.” Money collected from the low-wage While the McLeod West student population compensation surtax would be used to increase FAMILY is stable, and some would like to see a new working-family credits in Minnesota. ★ school built, farmers in the district are The House Jobs and Economic Opportu- concerned about the impact on their property nity Policy and Finance Committee did not Hmong marriages taxes. “No matter what I do here, somebody approve the bill April 4. Rep. Tony Sertich A bill that would legitimize Hmong cultural isn’t going to be happy,” Newman said. (DFL-Chisholm) suggested referring the bill to marriages, and expand the law making it And this district is not unique. He said the House Taxes Committee without recom- a form of child neglect to allow a minor to that many small districts are facing declining mendation, but that was also voted down. marry, was approved April 3 by the House or stabilized enrollments coupled with Carrie Thomas, JOBS NOW Coalition policy Civil Law and Elections Committee. The deteriorating buildings. “Eventually the state director, said many jobs throughout the Twin House Public Safety Policy and Finance will have to look for some reform (to address Cities metropolitan area do not pay wages high committee sent the bill to the House Rules the problem),” Newman said. enough to keep people off public assistance, and Legislative Administration Committee His bill would give the education a cost to taxpayers. Thomas added that April 6, without recommendation. commissioner one year to examine the 15 percent of area jobs pay less than $9 per Sponsored by Rep. Michael Paymar (DFL- condition of school buildings in the state’s hour. St. Paul), HF3674would elevate the role 88 small school districts, as well as the state’s A companion bill (SF2090), sponsored of the mej koob, giving them the ability incentives for school district consolidation by Sen. John Marty (DFL-Roseville), awaits to solemnize Hmong marriages in the and school building projects and provide action by the Senate Jobs, Energy and same way judges, priests, rabbis and others a report to the Legislature by Jan. 15, 2007. Community Development Committee. who perform marriages are recognized by Any school district receiving funding from state statute. The bill would also make all this year’s capital investment bill would be solemnizers mandatory reporters of neglect. exempted from the proposed moratorium. ENVIRONMENT Those knowingly facilitating or assisting in Larry Raisbeck, McLeod West school board ★ arranging marriages that violate state law chair, is not happy. would be charged with a misdemeanor. Sewage system pilot program “This is not a knee-jerk reaction,” he said “Our intent is to protect underage people, A bill to give more time to the individual referring to the upcoming referendum. He especially girls in the Hmong culture from sewer treatment pilot project, as established in said the district has researched the building being forced into marriage. It is also our 2003 in three Minnesota counties, was passed proposal for more than two years, held many intent to provide protection to people who 132-1 by the House April 3. public hearings, “and now we are down to the are culturally married, but do not have their Sponsored by Rep. Greg David s last two months before a referendum and this rights recognized by the state,” Paymar said. (R-Preston), HF2721 allows an additional year comes up slamming the door; basically saying Rep. Cy Thao (DFL-St. Paul), the only for Fillmore, Carlton and Chisago counties to stay to your old-fashioned way of teaching.” Hmong House member, opposes the bill and complete an inventory of property with indi- The bill was held over for possible inclusion said marriage traditions practiced by the vidual sewage treatment systems that are an in the committee’s omnibus bill. Hmong have changed little in the past 5,000 imminent threat to public health or safety due A companion bill (SF3611), sponsored by years. He said the role of the mej koob is to to discharge of untreated sewage. It now must Sen. Rod Skoe (DFL-Clearbrook), awaits act as a mediator between two families as the be completed by July 1, 2008. The bill stipulates action by the Senate Finance Committee. cultural marriage is arranged. Historically that the inventory may take place in phases over their role is not one of solemnizing the union. the period of the project. The parents and the community recognize a Moving? Received from the House April 5, the cultural marriage. He said this bill would do Please help save postage costs by keeping us bill awaits action by the Senate Finance informed of address changes. little to prevent cultural marriages between a Call (651) 296-2146 or 800) 657-3550. Committee. Sen. Bob Kierlin (R-Winona) is minor female and an older male. the Senate sponsor. April 7, 2006 Session Weekly  Higgins (DFL-Mpls), awaits action by the full Senate. Lee Herold, owner of Herold Flags in Rochester, said the current Minnesota flag lacks distinctive qualities and is confusing to most Minnesotans. “It’s pretty, but it’s not really effective,” Harold said. The proposal drew sharp criticism from committee members, who said changing the flag was both unnecessary and disparaging of the state’s history. “Frankly, I don’t think that the flag in my office or the one that flies outside my house or the one on top of this building is ugly or obsolete. I think it’s a good flag,” said Rep. Marty Seifert (R-Marshall). He added that trying to change the state flag would likely provoke the ire of many Min- nesotans, who would be compelled to replace their current flags. “They’re going to say, ‘Is that all you guys have time to do is screw photo by andrew vonbank around with stuff that’s working already?’ ” Members of the Hmong community fill the committee room during the April 3 meeting of the House Rep. Mark Olson (R-Big Lake) said he was Civil Law and Elections Committee to hear debate on a bill that would provide Hmong marriage embarrassed to admit that he didn’t know solemnization and mej koob requirements.

“I want us to kill the bill. Set up a task force within the Hmong community with legal pro- fessionals and come out with a comprehensive proposal to deal with both issues — marriage and child abuse,” Thao said. “I commit to you that I will have a bill ready by the end of the year to put that task force together.” He said the Hmong community has been in Minnesota for 30 years, and those that have been here the entire time “have changed a lot.” But recent immigrants “are the least educated about our laws and the least sophisticated about our culture,” and need time to assimilate. A companion bill (SF2403), sponsored by Sen. Wes Skoglund (DFL-Mpls), has been incorporated into SF2633, sponsored by Sen. Thomas Neuville (R-Northfield). It awaits action by the full Senate.

GOVERNMENT ★ No new state flag Minnesota will not be getting a new state flag anytime soon. HF3974, sponsored by Rep. Phyllis Kahn (DFL-Mpls), would create a legislative task force to examine the design of the state flag to determine if any changes or improvements should be made. The House Governmental photo by tom olmscheid Operations and Veterans Affairs Committee, Lee Herold, right, owner of Herold Flags in Rochester, describes the Minnesota state flag to members of the House Governmental Operations and Veterans Affairs Committee April 4. The committee rejected however, voted it down April 4. A companion a proposal that would have created a task force to look into designing a new state flag. bill (SF3459), sponsored by Sen. Linda

10 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 the history behind every aspect of the current bill but has concerns about the potential fiscal done through banks and that the default rate state flag, but that the flag had a meaning and impact new guidelines could have on some is about average when compared to other a heritage that shouldn’t be thrown out. of the organization’s more “geographically loans. “If you know the history [of the flag], it has challenged locations” throughout the state. a message,” Olson said. Rep. Larry Haws (DFL-St. Cloud) said HEALTH he has coached athletic teams that have Cleaning up statutes ★ competed in interstate competitions under A bill (HF3488) making technical the Minnesota flag, and that other states were corrections to state statutes was passed by Mental health workers study appreciative of the flag. the House 129-4 April 3. The House approved a bill April 3 that The annual “revisor’s bill,” as it is known, would require a study to be completed corrects erroneous and ambiguous language, regarding the qualifications necessary for Reducing greenhouse gasses including obsolete references in state statutes, mental health practitioners to receive Medical New state-funded buildings would be according to the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Pete Assistance reimbursement. forbidden from producing a net increase in Nelson (R-Lindstrom). Approved 125-9, HF2806, sponsored by greenhouse gases, under a bill approved by a In an earlier committee hearing, he said Rep. Jim Abeler (R-Anoka), awaits action House committee March 30. that the Office of the Revisor of Statutes is by the Senate Health and Family Security HF3139, sponsored by Rep. Sheldon asked to do a lot of work in a short amount of committee, where Sen. Paul Koering (R-Fort Johnson (DFL-St. Paul), would direct the time during session, and this bill “is a cleanup, Ripley) is the sponsor. Administration and Commerce departments fix-up, straighten up.” The Department of Human Services would to develop guidelines and procedures for Received April 5 from the House, the bill be in charge of conducting the study, which a requirement that no net increases in awaits action by the Senate. Sen. Don Betzold would be completed by Jan. 15, 2007. A report greenhouse gases be allowed as a result of state (DFL-Fridley) is the Senate sponsor. based on the study would then be given to the building projects. House and Senate health committees. The departments would report back to Abeler said the bill was controversial at the Legislature in 2007 on the cost and GREATER MINNESOTA first but now receives support from both feasibility of implementing such guidelines, ★ parties. The bill originally authorized Medical which would become mandatory for all new Assistance payments for mental health buildings receiving funding from state bond Business development investment services provided by licensed professional proceeds after Jan. 1, 2008. Business growth is important to the Greater counselors. The House Governmental Operations and Minnesota economy. Veterans Affairs Committee approved the Sponsored by Rep. Tony Sertich (DFL- bill, which now goes to the House Regulated Chisholm), HF3638 would establish the Radiation facilities Industries Committee. A companion bill Greater Minnesota Business Development A sunset provision on construction of (SF2677), sponsored by Sen. Sandy Pappas Investments Program. The plan calls for the radiation therapy facilities could be extended (DFL-St. Paul), awaits action in the Senate commissioner of employment and economic to 2013. Finance Committee. development to make long-term loans of up to Current law states that all radiation therapy “This initiative builds on existing laws, $2 million for each qualifying business. The facilities must be constructed only by an entity which are known as ‘sustainable building bill would appropriate $12 million from the owned, operated or controlled by a hospital. guidelines,’ that bond-funded buildings General Fund for such loans. However, there is a sunset provision on this exceed the state energy code by 30 percent,” The House Jobs and Economic Opportunity current law of August 2008. Johnson said. Policy and Finance Committee held the HF2810, sponsored by Rep. Duke Powell Johnson billed the initiative as “climate- bill over April 5 for possible inclusion in its (R-Burnsville), would eliminate the sunset neutral bonding,” and said it was an important omnibus bill. A companion bill (SF3229), provision and leave the rest of the law intact. step in fighting global warming on the state sponsored by Sen. Thomas Bakk (DFL- Powell’s bill would have meant that all newly level. Cook), awaits action by the Senate Finance constructed radiation facilities be affiliated Rep. Michael Beard (R-Sha kopee) Committee. with hospitals. But after considerable questioned the merits of fighting global Sertich said businesses receiving a loan discussion, the House Health Policy and warming when it has not been proven to would have to provide collateral or security Finance Committee approved March 30 an exist. for the entire amount of funds invested by the amendment to extend the sunset until 2013. “Is the global climate changing, getting a state. They must also demonstrate that there The bill now goes to the House. little warmer? Yeah, I think it is. I think we will be at least a 1 percent projected return on Powell said opposition centers on issues con- all agree with that. How much we have to do investments each year. cerning quality care, but focusing on current with that is something I wish we’d slow down Funds given out at a regional level are better regulations of radiation facilities is more the and take a little closer look at,” Beard said. suited to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and issue. However, he said the 2013 sunset is some- He added that he was not strongly against businesses, Sertich noted. thing he can work with for the time being. the bill, because it did no harm, but he Tom Renier, Northland Foundation Lawrence Massa, chief executive officer of doubted whether it would do anything to ward president, added that the bill meets today’s Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar, said that off the gradually changing climate. marketplace demands. current “law has encouraged collaborative Sally Grans, assistant director of planning Rep. Tim Mahoney (DFL-St. Paul) relationships and projects between hospitals for the Minnesota State Colleges and questioned how the repayment process and physicians that are high quality, cost Universities system, said MnSCU supports the would be monitored. Sertich said it is typically effective, and have introduced the latest

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly 11 Coballes-Vega, executive board member of the Minnesota Association of Colleges for Teacher Education. Because implementation of the report might not improve teacher preparation, Rep. Gene Pelowski, Jr. (DFL-Winona) warned, “Your intention is good but what might happen won’t be good.” Erickson said she would talk with concerned parties to improve the bill’s language before it moves to the next committee. A companion bill (SF3582), sponsored by Sen. Sean Nienow (R-Cambridge), awaits action by the Senate Education Committee.

Textbook cost study The Office of Higher Education would be required to assemble a task force to study the rising costs of textbooks for postsecondary students, under a bill laid over by the House Higher Education Finance Committee April 3 for possible inclusion in its omnibus photo by andrew vonbank bill. With Rep. Duke Powell, the bill sponsor, looking on, as Lawrence Massa, right, chief executive officer HF4032, sponsored by Rep. Dean Urdahl of Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar, testifies before the House Health Policy and Finance Commit- (R-Grove City), would require the examination tee in support of a bill that would extend a sunset provision on construction of radiation therapy of textbook pricing trends and strategies, the facilities. practice of textbook rental, policies related to technology to Minnesotans seeking treatment HF3334, sponsored by Rep. Sondra Erickson the repurchase of textbooks from students, for cancer.” Other supporters said the (R-Princeton), would require a summary textbook selection policies and purchasing status quo cuts out duplication of services, report to be posted on a joint Web site between practices of colleges and universities. equipment and personnel. the board and the Office of Higher Education. A report would be due to the Legislature by Opponents of Powell’s original bill to remove It would include: Jan. 15, 2007. any sort of sunset provision said it would not • the student entrance requirements for each “As tuition has dramatically increased, we help improve patient access and care. board-approved program, including the need to look at other costs faced by students,” Michele Stangl, a breast cancer survivor, grade point average for students enrolled Urdahl said. said having a variety of provider choices was in each program in the preceding school “My generation is a generation of debt,” important for her diagnosis and treatment. year; said Hal Kimball, state chair of the Minnesota She was able to find physicians who knew her • the average SAT and ACT scores of students State University Student Association. Along personally and provided individualized care. entering each program in the preceding with tuition increases, the rising costs of Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Delano) said it was school year; textbooks are equally as corrosive to student ironic that DFLers support getting rid of • a list of faculty qualifications, including at pocketbooks, he said. regulations passed in the 1990s meant to least the undergraduate and graduate de- “We welcome the study … and we want to increase competition. But Rep. Barb Goodwin grees of the faculty members and their years address the new technologies that are coming (DFL-Columbia Heights) said the issue was of experience as K-12 classroom teachers or online,” said Bruce Hildebrand, executive not about competition, but about access and K-12 school administrators; director for the Association of American choices for consumers. • the current number and percent of graduates, Publishers. A companion bill (SF2532), sponsored by by program, in the school year who were A companion bill (SF3608), sponsored by Sen. Linda Berglin (DFL-Mpls), awaits action hired to teach full time in the preceding Sen. Claire Robling (R-Jordan), awaits action by the full Senate. year; and by the Senate Education Committee. • students’ pass rates on skills and subject matter exams required for graduation in HIGHER EDUCATION each program, and licensure area in the English proficiency for professors ★ preceding school year. A task force to investigate and report on the “This bill would develop a report card assessment of faculty and teaching assistants, Accountability for teacher training for our teacher preparation programs,” said and their ability to speak English clearly A bill that would require the Board of Erickson, who added that a recent teacher and with good pronunciation, was laid over Teaching, along with colleges and universities publication gave Minnesota a D+ for teacher April 5 for possible inclusion in the House in the state, to summarize specified training programs. Higher Education Finance Committee information to improve teacher preparation “The items in this particular bill will omnibus bill. programs was tabled by the House Higher require significant resources from institutions HF2798, sponsored by Rep. Bud Heidgerken Education Finance Committee April 3. that prepare teachers,” said Carmen (R-Freeport), would establish a Higher

12 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 Education English Proficiency Task Force given packing and distributing rights. positions appointed rather than elected. It consisting of 11 members that would Jim Brikholz, vice president of the Minnesota also provides for a current officeholder to include three post-secondary students, an Apple Growers Association, said independent complete the elected term before the office is administrator and faculty member from the growers cite this as a disadvantage because made appointive. For enactment, it is subject University of Minnesota and Minnesota State they usually do much of the packing and to a four-fifths vote of the county board and Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) system, distributing themselves, putting them at a is subject to reverse referendum. and four legislators. marketing disadvantage. There was significant debate March 23 when “There’s a lot of good foreign professors; A committee at the university looks at each the bill, sponsored by Rep. Paul Kohls (R- there’s a lot of good professors that come variety release to determine how it should be Victoria), was approved 68-65 by the House. from foreign countries,” but there should be a handled, said Bev Durgan, director of the Calling the bill, “a wonderfiul idea,” Rep. speaking test like the University of Minnesota Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station at Larry Howes (R-Walker) said he will sponsor requires, said Heidgerken. the university. “We believe that this will help a bill allowing all counties to make the “Every international student we admit is and ensure that this particular apple variety change. required to go to the University of Minnesota will be available for apple growers for a long Another member, however, viewed this as ‘speak’ program before teaching a class or time to come.” a step toward eroding local control. before running a discussion class,” said A companion bill (SF3527), sponsored by “Here we go again, folks. Taking away Martin Sampson, a university political science Sen. Steve Dille (R-Dassel), awaits action in the local citizens’ right to vote,” Rep. Torrey professor. Foreign professors are a valuable the Senate Finance Committee. Westrom (R-Elbow Lake) said. Under current source for education on cultures and global law, a county has the option of going directly awareness, he said. to its residents for a referendum on whether “We don’t think we need a law to solve LAW the positions should be appointed. “None of every single issue that exists out there, ★ them have done that, and have opted to take nor do we need a task force,” said Russ the easy path and have the Legislature stick it Stanton, representative for the Inter-Faculty Updating investment securities to the citizens of their county instead.” Organization. We have a board of trustees, we There are two versions — 1985 and 2002 Sen. Julianne Ortman (R-Chanhassen) is have faculty, presidents and administrators — of the Uniform Securities Act. Minnesota the Senate sponsor. It passed 59-4 in that body that assure communication problems are currently uses the 1985 version of this federal March 28. caught and dealt with, he said. law. However, HF2514, sponsored by Rep. Joe HF3263/SF1878*/CH173 A companion bill (SF3715), sponsored by Atkins (DFL-Inver Grove Heights) would Sen. Cal Larson (R-Fergus Falls), awaits action update that law to the federal 2002 version. in the Senate Finance Committee. The act deals with the sale of investment Authority membership increase securities, such as stocks and bonds. Some A plan to add members to Swift County’s securities transactions are exempt from rural development finance authority was Apples and money regulation at one level and regulated only at passed 122-8 by the House March 30. A bill seeking $8.1 million for the University others; the bill attempts to create uniformity Sponsored by Rep. Aaron Peterson of Minnesota School of Dentistry and the for such cases at the federal and state level. (DFL-Madison), HF2645 stipulates that College of Veterinary Medicine was laid over On April 3, the House passed the bill 132- the authority’s membership be increased April 5 for possible inclusion in the House 2. Received April 4 from the House, it awaits from seven to nine. It also stipulates that Higher Education Finance Committee action by the Senate Rules and Administration members reside within the county and that omnibus bill. Committee. Sen. Don Betzold (DFL-Fridley) appointments reflect the population of the HF3975, sponsored by Rep. Dean Urdahl is the Senate sponsor. entire county, with one member representing (R-Grove City), would appropriate $3.2 million The bill gives the state regulatory and each of the five county commissioner districts. to the veterinary college for equipment, a enforcement authority that avoids duplication The other four members must represent magnetic resonance imaging system, a of regulatory effort and blends with federal various county-based economic development linear accelerator and radiology equipment. regulation and enforcement. The new act organizations or be at-large. No more than The additional $4.9 million would fund facilitates improvements as electronic filing, three members may reside in any one county dentistry studies with simulation and virtual investor education, criminal penalties set commissioner district. reality equipment, 101 patient simulation by states, expanded power enforcement and The bill also defines the members’ terms, workstations and 20 advanced simulation registration of securities. and prohibits membership to employees, units. shareholders, owners or directors of entities An amendment added by Urdahl would with which the authority enters into an require the university to establish a task force LOCAL GOVERNMENT agreement. to study the market impact on Minnesota ★ Received from the House April 3, the producers of agricultural products from the County positions now appointed bill was referred to the Senate Rules and university licensing germplasm and to make Carver and Renville counties Administration Committee. Sen. Gary Kubly recommendations to the Legislature and the Signed can now follow the actions of 24 (DFL-Granite Falls) is the Senate sponsor. Board of Regents on ways to mitigate any by other counties in the state, and negative impacts on Minnesota businesses the change some previously elected that arise from university agreements. governor county positions to appointed. ★ ★ ★ If you have Internet access, visit the Controversy arose with the licensing of Gov. Tim Pawlenty signed a Legislature’s Web page at: a new variety of apple the university has bill March 31 giving the two counties authority http://www.leg.mn produced when one Minnesota grower was to make the auditor, treasurer and recorder

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly 13 SAFETY Sen. Pat Pariseau (R-Farmington), awaits cheap-as-dirt source of the material for other ★ action by the full Senate. construction projects becomes difficult or impossible. Detecting carbon monoxide On March 30, the House Property and Local Rep. Denny McNamara (R-Hastings) Helping with organ donation Tax Division of the House Taxes Committee lost his brother-in-law to carbon monoxide Emergency workers response time to the considered HF2220, sponsored by Rep. Denny poisoning in 1999. A bill he is sponsoring scene of an incident can sometimes determine McNamara (R-Hastings). The bill would would help others avoid the same fate. if a life can be saved. In the future, those actions encourage the preservation of aggregate “We always wanted to make sure we had might save the life of someone miles away. deposits by establishing an aggregate resource carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors HF2673, sponsored by Rep. Phyllis Kahn preservation property tax program. It was laid everywhere at home, and unfortunately didn’t (DFL-Mpls), would change the procedure over for possible inclusion in a report to the make sure we had a carbon monoxide detector for emergency responders and peace officers full committee. at our cabin,” he said. when the victim is an organ donor. A companion bill (SF1800), sponsored Heard April 4 by the House Public Safety Under the bill, if a public safety officer at by Sen. John Hottinger (DFL-St. Peter), Policy and Finance Committee, HF1337 an incident finds a document indicating the was included in the Senate omnibus tax bill was held over for possible inclusion in the person wants to donate his or her organs, (SF1683), but did not make the final law. committee omnibus bill. that officer would notify the dispatcher, who McNamara said that both good and The bill would require that every single- would then contact LifeSource, Minnesota’s bad stewardship of aggregate deposits has family home, and each unit of a multi- designated management organization for occurred in the Twin Cities metropolitan family building have an operational carbon organ transplants. area. monoxide alarm on each level and within Under current statute, public safety officers “The city of Woodbury is built on top of 10 feet of each sleeping room. are required to search a gravely injured or the aggregate, and it’s underneath all the According to the Minnesota Safety Council, deceased person for documents indicating homes there. In the city of Apple Valley, we “Carbon monoxide is a tasteless, colorless, the person’s willingness to be an organ mined the aggregate first and now it’s been odorless gas that interferes with the delivery donor. That information must be provided to developed,” McNamara said, explaining that of oxygen throughout the body. Sources of hospital staff if the person is sent to a hospital. the bill might help keep future development carbon monoxide include unvented kerosene However, there is nothing in statute for a costs from rising unnecessarily. and gas space heaters, leaking chimneys and person sent straight to the morgue. Fred Corrigan, executive director of the Ag- furnaces, back-drafting from furnaces, gas “Many people in automobile accidents gregate & Ready Mix Association of Minnesota, water heaters, woodstoves and fireplaces, gas never go to hospitals; they go directly to the said the Southdale retail area was built over an stoves and automobile exhaust from cars in morgue,” Kahn told the House Public Safety aggregate deposit that could have supplied the attached garages.” Policy and Finance Committee March 30. construction needs of the Twin Cities for 100 McNamara said the operation and “With improvements in donor availability years. An example of good stewardship is Maple enforcement is similar to that with smoke and the kinds of things they use for donation, Grove, he said, where the aggregate was mined detectors, where failure to comply results in there was a large waste, in a sense, of people before the retail area was built. a misdemeanor. who wanted to be a donor.” Areas with aggregate deposits are popular “The effective date is Jan. 1, 2007, for new The committee held the bill over for places to develop because of cheap access to construction, and Aug. 1, 2008, for all existing possible inclusion in its omnibus bill. the aggregate, Corrigan said. single-family and multi-family units,” Upon a request from Rep. Doug Meslow The preservation program is one that coun- McNamara said. (R-White Bear Lake), Kahn agreed to further ties could opt out of within two years of the Rep. Michael Nelson (DFL-Brooklyn Park) define the term “dispatcher” as the bill moves effective date, and it would allow landowners expressed concern about the potential cost for along. with 10 or more contiguous acres zoned resi- public housing agencies at a time their budgets According to a Nov. 24, 2005, story in The dential homestead, farm homestead, timber are getting tighter. Register–Guard in Eugene, Ore., a similar or agricultural to enroll 10-acre parcels. The “We’re putting an unfunded mandate on program in Washington between November parcels enrolled would be assessed as agricul- these people. I agree with having it for new 2003 and Sept. 1, 2005, resulted in 18 tissue tural until the aggregate is mined. construction, but we need to move the time and 45 cornea transplants. In return, the owner would agree that the out further on existing construction because A companion bill (SF3604), sponsored parcels would be mined for aggregate before that cost is going to get borne by somebody,” by Sen. Linda Scheid (DFL-Brooklyn Park), being developed, and the tax classification of he said. McNamara agreed to work with awaits action by the Senate Crime Prevention each parcel would change to commercial after Nelson on an effective date. and Public Safety Committee. the mining commences. Nelson also questioned the impact on buildings with hot-water central heating where there is no combustion in the apartment. TAXES Looking for relief Under the bill, an owner of a multi-family ★ A lengthy discussion of Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s dwelling that contains minimal or no sources 2007 tax proposals April 4 by the House Taxes of carbon monoxide may be exempted from Aggregate preservation Committee wrapped up with the question, the requirements if the owner certifies Construction of most streets and buildings “Where’s the tax relief?” to the commerce commissioner that the requires the use of aggregate — more HF3603 — sponsored by Rep. Phil Krinkie dwelling poses no health or safety risks to the commonly called gravel. But when streets (R-Lino Lakes) and presented to the committee occupants. and buildings constructed over gravel deposits by Revenue Commissioner Don Salomone A companion bill (SF1003), sponsored by render the deposits inaccessible, finding a — sets levy limits for counties and cities with

14 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 populations of 2,500 or more, but details no said it would “like to have as many choices for fully supports the bill but wanted to know direct property tax relief. funding this as possible instead of just having how the vehicles would be affordable to the The legislation was termed “a property taxes fund the entire project.” masses. David Morris, Institute for Local Self- disappointment” by Rep. Ann Lenczewski Darrel Tungseth, a Fergus Falls-area farmer Reliance vice president, said there are some (DFL-Bloomington). “Property tax relief and member of the Fergus Falls Public Schools reimbursements for people who own hybrid — I think — is the biggest issue out there, Facilities Task Force, said a local option sales cars besides saving money on gas. and there’s really no property tax relief in tax was fairer to the farmers than an additional Hornstein added that these hybrid electric this bill. I know it’s been asserted that levy property tax levy “where you’re taxing a small cars can run for 30 miles on electricity and limits are property tax relief, but I just have number of people very heavily.” then use ethanol, another renewable energy to disagree.” Nornes said the Fergus Falls business source, when gas is needed. “My understanding of what is in the Senate community supports the local option sales Rep. Andy Westerberg (R-Blaine) suggested bill is that there is no direct property tax relief tax alternative. adding language to the bill that would ensure in the Senate proposal,” Krinkie said, adding Funding K-12 school improvements that plug-in vehicles meet certain performance that if property tax is what people want, with local option sales taxes has not been standards. legislation to that effect must be put forward done in Minnesota before, according to A companion bill (SF3513), sponsored by the House. Superintendent Mark Bezek. by Sen. D. Scott Dibble (DFL-Mpls), awaits Rep. Morrie Lanning (R-Moorhead) and “It has been used very successfully in North action by the full Senate. Lenczewski said some property tax relief Dakota, in Jamestown, and that was a model legislation has been introduced, some has that we were being compared to during this been heard in committees and some still whole campaign,” he said. TRANSPORTATION awaits a hearing. Nornes said every House committee he sits ★ Salomone said he wasn’t sure how not on talks about local control. passing a tax bill this year would impact the “I think here’s another opportunity for us Wear a helmet or pay up department. He said that, in his opinion, to enable the local folks to make the decision People under age 18 may be required to wear legislation that will conform Minnesota’s on whether they want to impose this tax,” he bicycle helmets or face a fine of $25, under a income tax policies to federal policies needs said. bill approved by the House Transportation to be passed this year. Committee April 4 and sent to the House This include changes regarding certain floor. utilities, charitable contributions and losses TECHNOLOGY HF3503, sponsored by Rep. Ron Erhardt related to Hurricane Katrina, but Salomone ★ (R-Edina), would restrict those under 18 years said adopting the federal standard deduction old from operating or riding a bicycle on the for married taxpayers would impact more Plug it in street, highway, bikeway or any other public people than any of the other conformity A bill that started as a way to keep the St. bicycle path or trail without wearing properly items. Paul Ford plant operating is now a proposal fitted and fastened protective headgear that A companion bill (SF3326), sponsored by for a general task force to study the future of complies with standards established for Sen. Bill Belanger, Jr. (R-Bloomington), awaits plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in the state. helmets approved by the American National action by the Senate Taxes Committee. HF3719, sponsored by Rep. Frank Hornstein Standards Institute. The requirement would (DFL-Mpls), would establish a 13-member also apply to a person riding a bicycle in a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle task force with restraining seat that is attached to the bicycle School funding two primary goals. The first is to identify or in a trailer towed by the bicycle. They say it’s never been done before in barriers to the adoption of plug-in hybrid The $25 fine would apply directly to those Minnesota, but if the Legislature allows it electric vehicles by state agencies, small and ages 15 or older, or to parents or guardians of and Fergus Falls-area voters approve it, a local large private fleets, and Minnesota drivers. those less than 15 years old. option sales tax and motor vehicle excise tax Another task is to develop strategies to be Students from Mounds Park Academy came may help fund a new high school. implemented over one-, three- and five-year to Erhardt with the idea. HF3994, sponsored by Rep. Bud Nornes time frames to overcome those barriers. “In 2003, nearly 285,600 children, ages 14 (R-Fergus Falls), would allow Fergus Falls The task force would issue a report to the and under, were treated in hospital emergency to collect a 0.1 percent local option sales tax Legislature by April 1, 2007. rooms for bike related accidents,” said Blair and an excise tax of up to $20 per vehicle The House Jobs and Economic Opportunity Benham-Pyle. Use of helmets for those ages purchased within Independent School District Policy and Finance Committee laid over 4 to 15 would prevent 39,000 to 45,000 head 544 to build a new school for grades 9-12 and the bill April 5 for possible inclusion in its injuries, and 18,000 to 55,000 scalp and face renovate its middle school. The amount that omnibus bill. injuries annually, she said. may be raised is limited to $30 million, plus By making a public commitment to have “We need to protect our youngest most bond costs. the St. Paul plant work on the hybrid vehicles, vulnerable brains,” said Jeff Nachbar, public The bill was considered March 30 by the Hornstein said he hoped the original bill policy director for the Brain Injury Association Property and Local Tax Division of the House would woo Ford executives from any future of Minnesota. Taxes Committee and will be considered for shutdowns of the plant, but he opted to focus A companion bill (SF2940), sponsored by inclusion in a report to the full committee. on the current version as a compromise. He Sen. Steve Murphy (DFL-Red Wing), awaits A companion bill (SF3695), sponsored by also added that more hybrid vehicles would action by the full Senate. Sen. Cal Larson (R-Fergus Falls), awaits action result in less dependence on foreign oil and by the Senate Taxes Committee. vehicles not contributing to global warming. Nornes said the Fergus Falls community has Rep. Karen Clark (DFL-Mpls) said she

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly 15 Highway bonding your contents from your car, whether or not The governor’s highway bonding plan was you give up the right to reclaim your car. But held over April 4 by the House Transportation if you are NOT going to reclaim your car, after Finance Committee for possible inclusion in you get your contents, you must immediately its omnibus bill. (or as soon as possible) transfer title to the HF3657, sponsored by Rep. Mary Liz car to the impound lot operator or city. This Holberg (R-Lakeville), would appropriate will save money for you and the impound lot $50 million to the trunk highway fund operator or the city.” Under current law, all for program delivery and costs of actual that is required is notice to the vehicle owner payments to landowners for lands acquired within five days of the impound. for highway right-of-way, payments to lessees, The bill now goes to the House interest subsidies and relocation expenses; Transportation Finance Committee. and $2.45 billion for actual construction, “What this bill is doing is preventing private reconstruction and improvement of trunk tow operators from withholding personal highways, including costs associated with belongings when they tow your vehicle away,” right-of-way acquisition, leases, interest said Nelson. “When they tow your vehicle subsidies and relocation expenses. they have some collateral, but some folks may Additionally, the bill sets up a collection not be able to afford the fees and need to get account for the motor vehicle sales tax some money together. City towers have to give that, with the passing of a constitutional those things up and we’re dealing with private amendment by voters this November, would towers.” allocate all the revenues to transportation. After 45 days, if you do not claim your Calling it a “reasonable bonding plan,” vehicle, it becomes the property of the towing Holberg said all those involved realize the company, Nelson said. photo by andrew vonbank importance of getting the constitutional Speaking in opposition, Mark Bonstrom, Melissa Tapio, 80, testifies April 4 before the amendment passed. The governor’s plan also president of the Minnesota Professional House Transportation Committee in support of Towing Association, said current vehicle a bill that would permit tribal documents to be gives a tangible list of projects, she said. accepted as proof of identity when applying for “This is a very simple, direct concept for registration has been a major problem in a driver’s license or for purposes of verifying a accelerating highway projects across the state tracking down owners of impounded vehicles. name change. Rep. Brita Sailer, left, is the bill’s … and a new source of revenue to retire the “Sometimes the only way we get any response sponsor. debt on this plan, both the principal and when we send these certified letters is when interest,” said Bob McFarlin, assistant to the the time comes that it’s fishing or hunting and there is no record of a birth certificate, she transportation commissioner. season, or it’s something that they want to get said it has been difficult for her to get a state “This is all predicated on the fact that out of their car then miraculously they know identification card. thing is going to pass,” said Rep. Ron Erhardt where we’re at.” “There are many other Indian women, not (R-Edina). The plan could potentially be Oftentimes if they just want the contents, only women but men, also that have been born “hung out to dry,” he said. they don’t want the car back or the at home that have tribal IDs and they’re not “I think this is a very difficult plan to responsibility of the vehicle they left on the recognized,” she said. support without us taking a look at different road, said Bonstrom. Current tribal identification cards include revenues,” said Rep. Dan Larson (DFL- A Senate companion (SF3327), sponsored such information as legal name, date of birth, Bloomington). by Sen. D. Scott Dibble (DFL-Mpls), awaits signature and picture of the enrolled tribal “I think this bonding program with a action by the full Senate. member. list of projects will help show the voters a Michelle Paquin Johnson, attorney for the tangible list of items that they could expect Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians, said, “Often we hear tribal members who are trying to see happen as a result of supporting (the Tribal identification card changes constitutional amendment),” said Holberg. to cash a check, who are trying to start an Tribal identification cards issued by account, who are trying to apply for a driver’s A companion bill (SF2930), sponsored tribal governments and recognized by the by Sen. Dick Day (R-Owatonna), failed license or get a certificate of title,” — anything Bureau of Indian Affairs may be used to that would require identification — and are April 4 in the Transportation Budget Division obtain a Minnesota driver’s license, under a of the Senate Finance Committee. having problems getting those items. bill approved by the House Transportation Tribal identification cards are not easy to Committee April 4. obtain because many times members have to “There is a big problem with cashing checks Goods in impounded vehicles prove their ancestral lineage to the tribe, she and identification in general” for tribal said. “We have a process, it’s screened through Owners of impounded vehicles may be members, said Rep. Brita Sailer (DFL-Park able to retrieve their goods from inside a committee … it’s probably greater than what Rapids), the sponsor of HF3886. The bill most people do to prove their identity for the their vehicle without first having to pay the now goes to the House Rules and Legislative impound fees, under a bill approved by the state of Minnesota.” Administration Committee. A companion bill (SF3549), sponsored by House Transportation Committee April 4. “I had a tribal ID and that’s what I used for Under HF3276, sponsored by Rep. Pete Sen. Rod Skoe (DFL-Clearbrook), awaits action identification until 9/11 and then, after that, by the Senate Transportation Committee. Nelson (R-Lindstrom), the notice given to the they wanted a Minnesota ID which I didn’t owner of an impounded vehicle must include have,” said Melissa Tapio, an 80-year-old the statement: “You have the right to pick up tribal member. Because she was born at home,

16 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 VETERANS (R-Minnetonka), now goes to the Senate, now goes back to the Senate for action on the ★ where Sen. Geoff Michel (R-Edina) is the amended version. sponsor. “This body is going to come together today Free parks admission “This bill will bring football back to the on a bipartisan basis to right a wrong,” said Global War on Terror veterans and active University of Minnesota,” Abrams said. House Majority Leader Erik Paulsen (R-Eden duty military personnel may be allowed to The bill calls for the university to raise 50 Prairie), adding that he thought the bill was enjoy hunting, fishing and visits to state parks percent of the $248 million price tag privately, reasonable, balanced and fair. for free. through student fees and the proposed Although a bipartisan majority voiced HF3248 and HF3249, both sponsored by $35 million from TCF for naming rights. strong support for the bill, some members Rep. Lynn Wardlow (R-Eagan), would allow Once that money is raised, the state would expressed concern that the bill was going too the Department of Natural Resources to contribute the other half by paying $9.4 far and that some very serious unintended issue hunting and fishing licenses and park million annually for 25 years for 2,840 acres consequences were inevitable. permits to these personnel according to stated of environmentally sensitive university land “Our inner cities will decay with this eligibility requirements. near Rosemount. Upon conclusion of the bill,” said Rep. Keith Ellison (DFL-Mpls), In action by the House Agriculture, payments, the university would sell the land to arguing that the bill’s language made it so Environment and Natural Resources Finance the Department of Natural Resources for $1. difficult for local governments to prove that Committee, HF3248 was approved and sent The original bill called for an annual state a property is blighted, that cleaning up urban to the House floor. HF3249 was approved contribution of $7.4 million for 25 years to neighborhoods with environmental or crime without recommendation and sent to the fund 40 percent of the stadium costs. The land problems would be virtually impossible. House State Government Finance Committee. was not part of that proposal. “We’ve gone from a place where it’s too easy It has no Senate companion. Two Abrams amendments were adopted. to use eminent domain to a place where it’s HF3248 would allow military personnel One directs the Commissioner of Natural now far, far, far too restrictive,” he said. on active duty to enter the state’s parks free Resources, in cooperation with the Board Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL-Mpls) said when on leave and during 90 days following of Regents, to develop and present to the that the bill “penalizes good cities” that use discharge from active duty. No fiscal note governor and Legislature a program plan eminent domain responsibly for the greater was provided. A companion bill (SF3546), for the land by Jan. 15, 2007. The other good of their residents. sponsored by Sen. Mike McGinn (R-Eagan), addresses possible pollution created before Members engaged in a lengthy, emotional awaits action by the full Senate. the University acquired the land, that may debate regarding what to do about cities In its current version, HF3249 would allow have come from ordinances stored there. that currently have development projects veterans who are Minnesota citizens and have The amendment was drafted by the attorney underway that involved the use of eminent served in Iraq or Afghanistan the lifetime general, making the federal government doma i n. Some members, i nclud i ng privilege of annually choosing from three responsible for its cleanup, and the university Rep. Ann Lenczewski (DFL-Bloomington) and categories: hunting, fishing or parks. The for any pollution that may have occurred Rep. Morrie Lanning (R-Moorhead), argued veterans’ length of service would determine under its ownership. that cities that followed the law in acquiring how many free items they could enjoy: six to Also adopted was an amendment from property through eminent domain should be nine months would be rewarded with one Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL-South St. Paul) allowed to complete their projects, especially choice; nine to 18 months, two choices; and requiring wells on the land to be sealed in if they had already invested significant sums 18 months or more, three choices. accordance with state law of money in them. Bob Meier, legislative liaison for the DNR, Rep. Jim Davnie (DFL-Mpls) saw his “[The cities] have been working in said HF3249 would cost $600,000 in its first amendment adopted as well, which would good faith and we are changing the rule,” year if 10,000 veterans use the program. fix the student contribution for the stadium Lenczewski said. “What will we do during the “Our concern is not with the policy being for the length of the bonds. It ensures that transition?” established, but the loss in revenue to the students would not be assessed for any Rep. Barbara Goodwin (DFL-Columbia accounts that are there,” Meier said. construction cost overruns. Heights) and Rep. Dan Severson (R-Sauk Because the future costs of the program All total, 10 amendments were proposed. Rapids) each attempted to add language to could be exorbitant, Rep. Dennis Ozment Members who remained opposed to the the bill that would have exempted projects (R-Rosemount) suggested the bill’s sponsor stadium, raised issues such as higher student in their districts, but their amendments were consider reducing the lifetime eligibility to a fees and naming rights. voted down. specific number of years. Johnson urged members to vote no on any such exempting amendments, noting that Eminent domain bill passes none of the 13 other U.S. states that have LATE ACTION The House passed the bill that would passed eminent domain reform legislation ★ restrict governments’ ability to use eminent have included such transitional provisions in domain after making a number of minor their laws. Gopher stadium gets House go-ahead amendments April 6. One stadium down, and two to go. The bill (HF2846/SF2750*), sponsored The House approved a plan April 6 for by Rep. Jeff Johnson (R-Plymouth) and Sen. a new 50,000-seat football stadium on the To find out who represents Thomas Bakk (DFL-Cook), seeks to make Minneapolis campus of the University of you at the Capitol . . . it more difficult for government entities to Minnesota. Call House Public Information acquire private property by strictly defining A f ter t he 103-30 bipar tisa n vote, Services at (651) 296-2146 the situations in which eminent domain HF263, sponsored by Rep. Ron Abrams or 1-800-657-3550 powers may be used. It passed 115-17 and

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly 17 photos by tom olmscheid 1988 - Speaker Bob Vanasek, on his 40th birthday, gets a hug and a toy monkey from a pink gorilla. The rumpus room Business at the House is no laughing matter — usually

erman Chancellor Otto von Bismarck once remarked that laws are like sausages — those who like them should not watch them being made. Anyone who has ever watched a House of Representatives floor session Gfrom inside the House chamber probably has a good idea of what he meant.

By Nick Busse Those who have never seen the House in filibuster on the House floor. As paramedics members in March 1974 when a trio of naked action, or who have only caught a glimpse of wheeled him away on a gurney, Redalen men streaked through the Capitol, sprinting it while flipping through channels on their TV, waved, drawing a round of applause from his past a full House chamber. Rather than scoff might be fooled into thinking the legislative Republican comrades. Earlier that evening, angrily at the streakers’ lack of respect, Rep. process is tedious and dry. But depending on House Speaker Fred Norton (DFL-St. Paul) Neil Haugerud (DFL-Preston) introduced a what day you’re watching, nothing could be had ended Redalen’s filibuster by declaring “streaking amendment” to a bill that would further from the truth. him to be out of order, prompting the have created a special tax on ski masks and Take the case of Rep. Elton Redalen Republicans to pound their desks with their sneakers as well as required “night streakers” (IR-Fountain), who on May 14, 1987, collapsed fists, shouting “Gag! Gag! Gag!” to equip themselves with “a lamp on the front from exhaustion after leading a five-hour Or, consider the reactions of House and a red reflector on the rear.”

18 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 Bizarre stories, true tales? There are other, more bizarre stories. Some of the more popular include: • At the height of the Great Depression, a con- tingent of angry farmers stormed the House chamber and pelted the unsuspecting legis- lators with an arsenal of rotting vegetables. A former chief clerk has denied the event took place and members of the Minnesota Historical Society declined to comment. • In 1857, fur-trader-cum-state-representa- tive Joe Rolette stole a bill that would have made St. Peter the state’s capital and then disappeared for the remainder of the ses- sion. Rolette is said to have spent a week in a hotel room, drinking and playing cards with friends, killing time so that the bill would be dead by the time he returned. As a result, St. Paul remained the state capital. • When a speaker of the House orders mem- bers to vote “under call,” sergeants-at-arms 1977 – House Minority Leader Henry Savelkoul set a toy monkey on top of the bill binders on his chamber desk as he spoke about the tax bill. and State Patrol troopers are sometimes called upon to go out and physically locate One has to dig deep to find them, but observe a strict dress code and are forbidden individual House members and bring them the history of the House is filled with such from having coffee or newspapers on their back to the House chamber to vote on a stories of outbursts, outlandish antics and desks during session (among other things), is crucial piece of legislation. Several times colorful personalities. And while the casual comparatively sedate in its proceedings. This in the history of the House, members have observer might be tempted to attribute them has led to a long history of friendly jesting had to be driven back to the Capitol from to immaturity or a lack of respect on the part between representatives and senators; the miles out of town. of some representatives, to do so would be to former often paint the latter as being too stodgy ignore the fairly rambunctious and unruly and formal, while the latter view themselves as history of democracy itself. doing an overall better job of representing the state’s venerable institutions. Two chambers, worlds apart “Some members [of the House] even appear “One of the first things a new observer of to take perverse pleasure in the discomfort the House is likely to notice is its informality,” their casual ways give members of the Senate,” writes political scientist Royce Hanson in Hanson writes. “While a few members his 1989 study of the Minnesota Legislature, complain that the House often looks (and is) a Tribune of the People. “Its rules concerning bit chaotic, most appear to agree with Speaker decorum are lax, at least in comparison with David Jennings (1985–86), who could often be the Senate. Members have long been allowed found presiding in his shirt sleeves, that too on the floor without coats and ties. They much formality just got in the way of getting are not admonished for eating or reading at the business done expeditiously.” their desks during the session. They address The differences in culture between the House each other by name, rather than as ‘the and Senate are perhaps most readily evident in representative from [District or County].’” the differences in dress. The Senate’s insistence “Lax” might be a gentle term. Many a that its male members wear ties, in particular, first-time visitor to the House chamber has has been a steady source of humor among House undoubtedly been struck by the apparent members. Even speakers of the House have been chaos of floor-session proceedings. Members barred from the Senate chamber for not wearing get up from their seats, wander about the room, a tie, and at least one House member launched converse with colleagues, leave the chamber a mini-revolt over the rule. to confer with lobbyists or constituents in During the 2001 session, Rep. Tom Rukavina the hallway, and then return just in time (DFL-Virginia) attempted to confer with Sen. to punch a button on their desks that casts David Tomassoni (DFL-Chisholm) on the a “yes” or “no” vote on a bill. Speeches and Senate floor but was stopped at the door and debates can often barely be heard over the told he could not enter because he wasn’t 1997 - Rep. Harry Mares holds his cheesehead din of conversation in the room, prompting wearing a tie. Irate, Rukavina responded by over his heart as he says the Pledge of Allegiance the speaker of the House to bang his gavel successfully amending the rules of the House at the start of the Jan. 23, 1997, floor session. A on the desk at intervals, repeatedly urging to force all male senators to remove their ties die-hard Green Bay Packers fan, Mares brought members to take their conversations to the before entering the House chamber. his cheesehead to the chamber in recognition of the Packers beating the New England Patriots in back room. Super Bowl XXXI. Meanwhile, the Senate, whose members Rumpus continued on page 22

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly 19 t issue: government A ★ ★ ★

organizations holding meetings at the center. Rep. Phyllis Kahn (DFL-Mpls) then The everything bill successfully amended Krinkie’s amendment State government finance bill casts a wide net by extending the provision to apply to all publicly funded facilities in the state. “If you’re going to do it to one, the same argument should hold for everything,” Kahn By Nick Busse • The amount of money political candidates said. n omnibus state government finance can take from political party units during Krinkie said it was a rather large change, bill covering everything from legisla- election years would be increased from but that he would accept it anyway. The Ators’ pay to election laws to new ben- $20,000 to $50,000 for governor and lieuten- committee adopted the amendment. efits for veterans was approved by a House ant governor together, $10,000 to $20,000 One of the more controversial sections of committee April 5. for attorney general, $5,000 to $20,000 for the bill is a provision that would direct the HF2833, sponsored by Rep. Marty Seifert secretary of state and state auditor, and commissioner of employee relations to study (R-Marshall), represents the combined efforts $5,000 to $6,000 for legislators. and report to the Legislature the implications of members of the House State Government • State agencies would be forbidden from of converting state public pension plans from Finance Committee, which Seifert chairs. Its adopting unfunded mandates that would “defined benefit” to “defined contribution” provisions, culled from a number of smaller, cost businesses or local governments more plans. individual bills, address a miscellany of than $10,000 in the first year after they Rep. Bill Hilty (DFL-Finlayson) objected to government finance-related issues. take effect. the provision on the basis that not all of the Altogether, the bill contains more than 180 • State colleges and universities would concerned parties had a voice in the study sections, touching on dozens of topics. Some be forbidden to assess late fees to and that the cost of the study was unknown. of the highlights include: student-veterans who are awaiting federal He unsuccessfully moved to delete the • Legislators and the governor would be forced educational assistance payments. They provision. to forfeit their salaries for would also be directed to grant each month after the May What’s in the bill: college credits to veterans for New funding legislative adjournment educational courses completed The bill also includes a number of deadline that the House The following are selected bills while serving in the military. supplemental appropriations, including: and Senate do not pass all that have been incorporated, • Two new plaques would be • $2.3 million from the Health Care Access in part or in whole, into the of the major appropriation omnibus state government placed in the Court of Honor Fund to the Department of Employee Rela- and revenue bills. Addi- finance bill: on the Capitol Mall: one to tions to support the Public Buyers Group tionally, legislators would honor military war dogs and (formerly the Public Employees Insurance be forbidden from receiving HF2567 – Welti their handlers and another Program). per diem living expense HF2608 – Heidgerken to honor the state’s Medal of • $1.7 million for computer security planning, reimbursements during a HF2688 – Westrom Honor recipients. implementation and administration by the special session that is called HF2921 – Severson Several significant last- Office of Enterprise Technology in 2007; because the Legislature HF2961 – Dean minute amendments were also • $380,000 in funding to be taken away from failed to pass major budget HF3072 – Severson added to the bill. Minnesota Public Radio and given instead bills or bonding bills by the HF3187 – Peppin Seifert successfully amended to public television; adjournment deadline. HF3254 – Hackbarth the bill with a provision that • $325,000 to pay for the cost of the state’s • Political campaign materials HF3625 – Peppin would bar state agencies legal counsel in the Northwest Airlines would be barred from being HF3833 – Hilty from asking for fee increases bankruptcy proceedings; and displayed within 300 feet of HF3865 – Emmer to existing fees during the • $10,000 to the Legislative Coordinating a polling place on a primary second year of the legislative Commission for use in a legislators’ forum or general election day. Additionally, any- biennium. Seifert said he was concerned through which Minnesota legislators “meet one trying to persuade or influence voters about “the hogs at the trough who are jacking with counterparts from South Dakota, would be forced to stay at least 1,000 feet fees up each year … on the taxpayers of North Dakota, and Manitoba, Canada, to away from the polling place. Minnesota.” discuss issues of mutual concern.” • Campaign spending limits for political can- Rep. Phil Krinkie (R-Lino Lakes) introduced The bill now goes to the House Ways didates for governor, lieutenant governor, an amendment to the bill that would forbid and Means Committee. A companion attorney general, secretary of state or state the National Sports Center in Blaine from (SF2489), sponsored by Sen. Sheila Kiscaden auditor would be increased by 20 percent charging more than just the base operating (DFL-Rochester), awaits action in the Senate over current amounts. and usage costs to government or nonprofit Finance Committee.

20 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 t issue: environment A ★ ★ ★

have been exposed to pesticides and feel they are not adequately informed about the hazards Pesticide problems of such exposure. Report shows good news, bad news situation Representing the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, Dr. Samuel Yamin also spoke on behalf of the bill. He said the United States Environmental Protection By Irene Voth Agency estimates that up to 20,000 U.S. farm esticides are poisons. An umbrella term workers are poisoned annually by pesticides, for herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides resulting in what he called “acute” effects. Pand other chemicals intended to bring “The health effects can include illness and death to undesirable flora and rashes, headaches, nausea and vomiting, fauna, some can and do bring illness and disorientation, loss of coordination and even death to unintended victims, from honey- coma and death,” he said. bees to human beings. Regarding a second category, called “chronic” In Minnesota, the Department of effects, Yamin said researchers have found Agriculture regulates and monitors pesticide elevated risks for a variety cancers as well as use, and a report released last month by the reproductive problems, miscarriage and birth Office of Legislative Auditor stated that the defects among farm workers exposed long term department “does a good job.” to herbicides, including 2-4D and atrazine. Yet, after hearing the auditor’s report Insecticides adversely affect the nervous March 22, the House Agriculture and Rural system, he said: “Recent studies have also Development Committee heard testimony begun to show a link between pesticides and from people who claim there are unintended Parkinson’s Disease.” victims of pesticide use in Minnesota. On March 28, Liemandt spoke of the The auditor’s report states that the department role of the EPA in pesticide labeling, has a reasonable process for investigating which incorporates instructions about cases alleging human or animal exposure to safety measures for using pesticides, and pesticides, but methods for collecting pesticide of employers’ responsibilities regarding application records are not always thorough. It employees and pesticide use. also states the department imposes numerous photo by tom olmscheid He also said the Agriculture Department enforcement actions, including monetary Chela Vazquez of Centro Campesino, an organi- inspects dozens of sites each year, and that penalties, for law violations, but it does not zation that represents migrant workers, testifies 150 enforcement actions have been taken March 22 before the House Agriculture and Rural against non-compliant pesticide users in the fully evaluate their consistency or effectiveness. Development Committee for a bill that would Finally, it states that pesticide application require notice of certain pesticide applications. last several years. information in Minnesota is not sufficiently Sue Meyer, Candy Anderson, Becky Sheets available to all people who could be affected we all can do better” in addressing the hazards and Carol Ashley, residents of rural central by the applications. of pesticides to unintended victims. Minnesota, each spoke of the repeated Minnesota requires that residents near ap- Among those testifying against the bill exposure to pesticides by themselves, their plication sites receive advance notice about was Paul Liemandt, who manages the families and their livestock through aerial and pesticide applications, but prior to mosquito department’s response program for pesticides ground applications on the agricultural fields or gypsy moth treatments only or when other and fertilizers. Liemandt said the Workers’ in the vicinity of their homes. applications are made to reduce public health Protection Standard is a federal law that They also spoke of the human and animal risks. already provides for the safe use of pesticides health effects they attribute to that exposure, Nevertheless, HF3159, a bill to require and that the department enforces that law. including chronic headaches, stomach pain, farmers or pesticide applicators to give 24- “In fiscal year 2005, at least 13 percent of our sore throats and burning eyes, and chronically hour notice to any farm employee before inspectors’ time was devoted to ensuring that ill horses and sheep. applying pesticides, did not pass out of the farm workers and handlers were protected Meyer said her complaints to the House Agriculture and Rural Development under that Worker Protection Standard, and Department of Agriculture have resulted Committee March 28. It has no Senate indeed we’ve taken dozens of enforcement in inadequate testing and no disciplinary companion. actions, including penalty actions when we’ve actions against those spraying, “even after Rep. Keith Ellison (DFL-Mpls), the bill found noncompliance,” he said. the field inspector told me personally that sponsor, said the bill “doesn’t call the use of Those testifying on behalf of the bill there was enough evidence for them to be pesticides into question. We recognize they’re included Chela Vazquez, who said Latino disciplined.” a fact of life and part of reality, but I think that migrant farm workers have told her that they

April 7, 2006 Session Weekly 21 LATE ACTION the remaining $49 million available for the natural resources; $6.78 million for capital ★ tax committee to do with what it chooses. expenditures debt service; $6.6 million for Knoblach said the tax committee could K-12 education; and lesser amounts for public Committee targets allocate those funds, contingent on the safety, higher education, state government, Editor’s note: As of press time Thursday state winning the health-impact fee case. agriculture and transportation. night, the House was expected to take up the The spending plan also calls for about $20 The jobs and economic opportunity finance budget targets, which were discussed in a House million of the approximately $122 million bill is to see a $26.75 million decrease under committee earlier in the week. surplus in the Health Care Access Fund to be the plan. Targets setting the limit on changes used for unrestricted spending, and nearly “In further research we have found that in expenditures for the remainder of the $102.3 million to be set aside as contingency we can refinance $27.5 million of TANF biennium were approved April 5 by the House until the court case is settled. If the case is money without running into any sort of Ways and Means Committee. settled in favor of the state, the money could problems with the federal government,” “I’m very concerned about making sure we be expended. Knoblach said. “This will enable us to meet account for the possible loss in the tobacco Rep. Thomas Huntley (DFL-Duluth), our work requirements and such, but it makes case,” said Committee Chair Rep. Jim warned against putting anything in writing additional money available. That’ll leave the Knoblach (R-St. Cloud). “That is a contingent about the money set aside for the tobacco committee with some additional money for liability of $370 million. This resolution court case, adding that Finance Commissioner needs they may have.” allows us to account for that contingency.” Peggy Ingison previously told the committee A number of members and committee Last year the health impact fee on tobacco that has never been done. Knoblach said he chairs said the allocations will not meet the products was enacted, and the law is being reviewed the proposal with Ingison, and she requested needs. challenged in court. made no comment about the language. Knoblach noted that a biennial budget The resolution transfers $267.7 million Of the $88 million in additional funding, was passed last year, but this is to help with of the $316.7 million available in the tax $75.25 million would be for the health finance situations that have changed from last year’s relief account to the General Fund, with bill; $10.5 million for the environment and approved plan.

Bonding continued from page 4 The Como Zoo in St. Paul would receive seem to supply a very good need into the other two projects. The Senate had zero for all $10 million for facility upgrades, the community, and when I asked them about three. Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley $9 million, accreditation they said they couldn’t get it Duluth leaders call the $33.7 million request the Lake Superior Zoo $600,000 to remodel without this appropriation.” the city’s top priority and noted that its voters its polar bear exhibit and the Little Falls Also potentially faring well are sports approved a food and beverage tax increase to Zoo $400,000, with the stipulation that the facilities. help fund the project. “We’re going to listen to capital improvement funds must support The bill provides $12 million for a multi- the Senate and see if they really are interested accreditation of the zoo by the American purpose facility at Southwest Minnesota in that project,” Dorman said. Association of Zoos and Aquariums. State University to go along with a private $5 The potential House funding keeps the “We really don’t want to get into support million donation from Schwan’s, $3 million project alive for the expected conference of these zoos that kind of end up causing for a regional sports center in Bemidji and $3 committee negotiations. While not officially scandals or sort of roadside attraction zoos or million for the Duluth Entertainment and dead, projects that are in neither the House nor something like that,” said Rep. Phyllis Kahn Convention Center. The governor included Senate bills will likely not get consideration. (DFL-Mpls). “This Little Falls Zoo seems to the Bemidji funding, but had nothing for the have a set of people working very hard, who

Rumpus continued from page 19 Female House and Senate members have in session. Tuma said. “But yet there was something differing customs as well. Although the House Today, the House functions much happening. There was an energy. There was a had already allowed it for years, on April 16, differently. It has a full, professional support flow. And I just thought to myself, ‘I’ve got to 1993, Sen. Ellen Anderson (DFL-St. Paul) staff, and according to 34-year House veteran be here someday. This is cool.’ ” became the first woman to wear pants on the Rep. Phyllis Kahn (DFL-Mpls), the culture has An ex-member of the so-called “Dog Senate floor, leading oneStar Tribune reporter become more professional as well. Pound” — a group of House Republicans to declare that the “Pants Barrier” had been “When I got here, there were members who used to sit in the far right corner of the broken in the Minnesota Senate. smoking all over the place, and they had flasks chamber and hand out dog biscuits as rewards hidden in their desks,” Kahn says. for conservative legislation — Tuma says the Relaxed but professional Similarly, former Rep. John Tuma differences in decorum and attitude between According to Hanson, the relative (R-Northfield), who served from 1995-2002, the House and Senate are a good thing. informality of the House has historical roots. recalls visiting the House chamber as a child “I think it’s healthy for democracy, because Until the 1970s, only the speaker and majority in the 1970s and seeing a “blue haze” of smoke it was the wisdom of our Founding Fathers to leader had their own private offices. Rooms, hanging over the chamber. have a very deliberative process, and have two telephones and secretaries were all shared “I remember looking down on the floor bodies that have distinctly different views on communally by House members, who often and just seeing what looked like utter chaos,” life.” met constituents on the House floor when not

22 Session Weekly April 7, 2006 ill introductions A p r i l 3 - 6, 2006 B ★ ★ ★ House files 4068 - 4115

HF4081-Ruud (DFL) HF4093-Samuelson (R) HF4105-Nelson, P. (R) Monday, April 3 Taxes Rules & Legislative Administration Public Safety Policy & Finance HF4068-Abrams (R) Military pension individual income tax Congress memorialized by resolution to Statewide critical school incident Transportation Finance subtraction authorized. recognize state authority under the U. S. planning and mapping system study Motor vehicle sales tax revenue allocation Constitution to regulate noncommer- required and money appropriated. modified, highway user tax distribution HF4082-Koenen (DFL) cial driver’s licenses and identification Education Finance funds provided and previous constitutional cards and to repeal certain sections of HF4106-Sieben (DFL) Federal comprehensive school re- Taxes amendment ballot question modified. the Real I. D. Act. form funds replaced and money National Service Trust education- HF4069-Erickson (R) appropriated. HF4094-Seifert (R) al awards income tax subtraction State Government Finance State Government Finance authorized. Assistive Technology of Minneso- HF4083-Ruud (DFL) State agency fees limited. Health Policy & Finance ta funding provided and money HF4107-Mariani (DFL) Mercury tests results reporting Health Policy & Finance appropriated. HF4095-Abrams (R) required. Taxes Ramsey County chemical dependency HF4070-Ruth (R) Qualified terminable interest elections facility supplemental rate expanded. HF4084-Brod (R) Jobs & Economic authorized relating to estate taxation. Education Finance Opportunity Policy & Finance HF4108-Vandeveer (R) Hair braiding occupational registration New Prague library grant provided for HF4096-Olson (R) Taxes required. a Czech heritage center, bonds issued Health Policy & Finance Transition payments for property tax and money appropriated. Human services service plan provisions base loss provided to compensate tax- HF4071-Sykora (R) modified. ing jurisdictions for a decrease in tax Education Finance Tuesday, April 4 base when property is acquired and School district reserve accounts HF4097-Gunther (R) becomes exempt. eliminated. Jobs & Economic HF4085-Peterson, S. (DFL) Opportunity Policy & Finance HF4109-Demmer (R) Public Safety Policy & Finance HF4072-Abeler (R) Chemical dependency treatment fund Education Policy & Reform Parental notice of predatory offenders eligibility expanded. Agriculture education option included Health Policy & Finance expanded relating to school areas. Limited part-time practice authority in social studies graduation require- authorized for retired dentists. HF4098-Soderstrom (R) ments and agriculture science defined as HF4086-Dorman (R) Jobs & Economic fulfilling science credit requirements. Taxes Opportunity Policy & Finance HF4073-Abeler (R) Low-income housing projects construc- Taxes Brook Park water treatment facility and tion materials sales tax exemption ex- water tower funding provided, bonds Thursday, April 6 Ramsey tax increment financing district tended to limited partnerships in which authorized subject to special rules. issued and money appropriated. the sole general partner is a nonprofit HF4110-Abrams (R) corporation. Transportation Finance HF4074-Johnson, S. (DFL) Wednesday, April 5 Motor vehicle sales tax exemption Civil Law & Elections HF4087-Simon (DFL) Government data practices written provided for lessees who donate the Taxes HF4099-Tingelstad (R) leased vehicle to a charitable organi- advisory opinion required upon request Naturalization application filing fees Governmental Operations & of an individual. zation within 30 days of the date of income tax credit provided. Veterans Affairs purchase. Redistricting commission created for HF4075-Simon (DFL) HF4088-Beard (R) bipartisan legislative redistricting and HF4111-Hackbarth (R) Education Finance State Government Finance constitutional amendment proposed. School districts required to maintain a Governmental Operations & Property assessment deferments for Veterans Affairs separate account to identify expendi- certain members of the armed forces HF4100-Lanning (R) Baseball stadium funding provided, tures for nonpublic school pupil special authorized and Support Our Troops Taxes Minnesota Ballpark Authority estab- education instruction and services. grants authorized to eligible individuals Nonprofit licensed child care local prop- lished, community ownership option to pay special assessments. erty tax exemption option authorized. provided, Hennepin County bonding HF4076-Marquart (DFL) State Government Finance and local sales and use taxes authorized HF4089-Thissen (DFL) HF4101-Hilstrom (DFL) County veteran service offices fund- and football stadium and authority in Taxes Education Finance Anoka County provided. ing grants provided and money Special property tax refund deduction Independent School District No. 286, appropriated. provided on property tax statement and Brooklyn Center, innovative district HF4112-Eastlund (R) money appropriated. program funding provided and money Public Safety Policy & Finance HF4077-Greiling (DFL) appropriated. Education Finance Address confidentiality program HF4090-Ellison (DFL) established for victims of domestic Secondary sparsity funding authorized Public Safety Policy & Finance HF4102-Carlson (DFL) for certain schools that primarily serve violence, sexual assault or stalking; Minneapolis; downtown security Transportation Finance voting method and mail forward- students who have been assessed as Crystal Airport economic analysis and collaborative expanded and money ing system provided to participants; chemically dependent. alternative land use report required. appropriated. criminal penalties imposed and money appropriated. HF4078-Anderson, I. (DFL) HF4091-Hamilton (R) HF4103-Hansen (DFL) Commerce & Financial Institutions Jobs & Economic Environment & Natural Resources Boats used to carry passengers for hire Heritage enhancement, parks and trails, HF4113-Peterson, A. (DFL) Opportunity Policy & Finance Transportation inspection requirements modified. clean water, and arts and humanities Rural public water and sewer systems National Guard-related signs autho- funds established; sales tax increased bonds maturity date conformity rized on highways. HF4079-Sieben (DFL) provided with bonds issued for mu- and funds dedicated; heritage enhance- Health Policy & Finance nicipal water and wastewater treatment ment council and clean water council Children’s environmental health officer HF4114-Krinkie (R) systems. created; and constitutional amendment Taxes established within the Department of proposed. Health and money appropriated. Public finance obligations terms and HF4092-Westerberg (R) conditions provided and inter-fund State Government Finance HF4104-Hansen (DFL) loans authorized. HF4080-Ellison (DFL) Body armor provided for members of the Environment & Natural Resources Commerce & Financial Institutions National Guard being deployed to com- Natural resources secretary office es- Child health supervision for services for HF4115-Brod (R) bat service and money appropriated. tablished, sales tax portion dedicated Taxes children under age 6 clarified to include to natural resources, heritage enhance- federally recommended blood lead tests Estate tax federal exemption conformity ment fund and other funds established, provided. and follow-up treatment. money appropriated and constitutional amendment proposed. April 7, 2006 Session Weekly 23 Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 175 State Office Building St. Paul, MN 55155-1298

Speaker of the House: Steve Sviggum Majority Leader: Erik Paulsen Minority Leader: Matt Entenza

innesota m INDEX For More Information

For general information, call: Loons and eagles House Public Information Services office Estimated number of loons that call Minnesota home...... 12,000 (651) 296-2146 or States with more loons...... 1 (Alaska) 1-800-657-3550 Percent of loons that reside on lakes that are 10-49 acres in size...... 32 50-149 acres...... 26 To have a copy of Session Weekly mailed to you, subscribe online at: http://www.house. 150-499 acres...... 27 mn/hinfo/subscribesw.asp or call Length of a common loon from head to tail, in inches...... 30 (651) 296-2146 or 1-800-657-3550 Weight, in pounds...... 8-12 Wingspan, in feet...... 5 Subscribe to Session Daily e-mail alerts at Estimated millions of years ago that the loon’s first relative appeared...... 25 http://www.house.mn/list/join.asp?listname Length, in feet, of that relative, from head to tail...... 6 =sessiondaily Approximate pounds of fish that a loon eats each day...... 2 Depth, in feet, loons can dive underwater for food...... 250 To obtain a copy of a bill, call: Minutes a loon can stay underwater...... 5 Chief Clerk’s Office Feet, on average, of a “runway” that a loon needs in order to take off from a lake....100-600 (651) 296-2314 Approximate number of times a loon flaps its wings per minute when in flight...... 200 To find out about bill introductions or Speed loons can reach in flight...... 75 mph the status of a specific bill, call: Average lifespan for a loon, in years...... 25-30 House Index Office Number of calls that a common loon has...... 4 (651) 296-6646 Number of eggs typically laid by a loon...... 2 Months after a loon egg is laid that it hatches...... 1 For an after-hours recorded message giving Typical age of a loon when it first flies...... 2 months committee meeting times and agendas, Number of lead sinkers or jigs a loon must swallow to be poisoned...... 1 call: Of the 650 eagles treated by the Raptor Center from 1980-1996, number Committee Hotline that had lead poisoning...... 138 (651) 296-9283 Additional eagles treated for toxicity from 1996-1999...... 43 The House of Representatives can be found Pairs of bald eagles that nest in Minnesota, as estimate...... 680 on the Web at: http://www.house.mn Age eagles begin to get the adult coloring (white heads and tails)...... 4-6 years

Percent larger that female eagles are compared to males...... 25-30 Teletypewriter for the hearing impaired. Weight of female eagle, in pounds...... 10-14 To ask questions or leave messages, call: Weight of male, in pounds...... 8-10 TTY Line (651) 296-9896 or To maintain its weight, pounds of fish an eagle needs to consume daily, 1-800-657-3550 if fish are all it eats...... 1-1.5 Reproductive life, in years, of a healthy, well-fed eagle in the wild...... 20-30 Check your local listings to watch television Feet across and feet deep of most eagle nests...... 4, 3 coverage of House committees, floor Estimated percent of eaglets hatched in a season that make it through their first year....50 sessions and select press conferences. Miles per hour an eagle can fly...... 50 Maximum fine for killing an eagle...... $10,000 This document can be made available in alternative Sources: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources; Wisconsin Department of Natural formats to individuals with disabilities by calling (651) 296-2146 voice, (651) 296-9896 TTY, or Resources; Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute, National Eagle Center. (800) 657-3550 toll free voice and TTY.