SESSION WEEKLY

A slice of the government pie Preserving the statehouse All about the dogs

HF175 - HF260 A NONPARTISAN PUBLICATION MINNESOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES • PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES VOLUME 28, NUMBER 4 • JANUARY 28, 2011 Flashback to 1991 and 2001

Big bucks on bets

The year 2000 was the most profitable yet for the Minnesota State Lottery, bringing in more than $397 million in revenue, Director George Andersen told the House Government Operations and Veterans Affairs Policy Committee. By comparison, $1.5 billion was bet at charitable gambling venues with $73 million wagered on horse racing at Canterbury Park. Andersen photo by tom olmscheid added the state estimates there was about 1991 - Rep. Don Frerichs (IR-Rochester) wore a bulletproof vest on the House $1 billion spent on illegal gambling floor to avoid political “sniping” when a bill he sponsored came up for a vote. activities in the state, primarily organized Facing a $197 million deficit for the 1990-91 biennium, the House approved Gov. Arne Carlson’s package of proposed cuts on a 69-61 vote, with more sports betting. than a dozen DFLers joining almost a unanimous vote of the Independent- Republican caucus. The package called for $50 million in cuts for state aids Session Weekly Jan. 26, 2001 to local governments and shifting $52 million in Motor Vehicle Excise Taxes from road and bridge projects to the General Fund. Carlson did not propose use of the state’s $550 million reserve fund, opting to save it for balancing the $1.2 billion shortfall forecast for the 1992-93 budget period.

Session Weekly Jan. 25, 1991

Contents SESSION WEEKLY Session Weekly is a nonpartisan publication of Minnesota House of Representatives First Reading: Lawmakers debate downsizing the state’s workforce • 3-4 Public Information Services. Produced during session, it covers the previous week’s Highlights: A week for the dogs • 5-12 news from the House. No fee.

At Issue: First bill passed in 2011 would reduce spending by $1 billion• 16 Session Weekly (ISSN 1049-8176) is published weekly during the legislative session by Feature: Capitol dome repairs hope to preserve statehouse for many years • 13-15 Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services, 175 State Office Building, At Issue: Bush Foundation commits big bucks to revamp teacher training • 17-18 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298. Periodicals postage People: Meet Bills, Leidiger, Lohmer, Murray, Quam and Stensrud • 19-21 paid at St. Paul, Minn., and additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bill Introductions: HF175-HF260 • 22-23 Session Weekly, House Public Information Minnesota Index: Philanthropy and giving • 24 Services, 175 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298.

On the cover: Milo, a rescued puppy from Last Hope, Inc., rests in the hands of Rep. Pat Garofalo Jan. 25 as the representative presents to the House Taxes Committee a proposal to exempt sales tax from rescued pet sales. Printed on recycled paper which is 50% recycled, 50% post-consumer content. ­— Photo by Tom Olmscheid FIRST READING

A smaller slice of the government pie Lawmakers debate downsizing the state’s workforce

By Nick Busse “As it turns out, I got no sympathy for that whatsoever,” Banaian hen Rep. King Banaian (R-St. Cloud) said. “I learned to shut up about my wage freeze.” Banaian said he encountered many voters who had seen their wages was campaigning last year, he cut, not frozen. So too did Rep. Denny McNamara (R-Hastings), thought voters would appreciate who found that many of his constituents felt the public sector wasn’t W sharing in their private pain. knowing that he, as a professor at a state “As I was out door-knocking, talking to my neighbors last fall, university, had taken a two-year pay freeze. they kept saying, ‘Will you please live within your means? We can’t He was wrong. give you any more,’” he said. The Republicans who seized the majority in the House and Senate this year campaigned on a platform of smaller government. Now that Public vs. Private-Sector Employment in Minnesota they’re in charge, many hope to scale back not only the amount of money the state spends, but also the number of people it employs. Bills State Employees are already working their way through the House that would freeze 3% Federal Employees state worker pay, cut the number of state employees, and establish a 1% commission to eliminate or combine state agencies. As lawmakers prepare to solve a projected $6.2 billion budget Local Government Employees 10% deficit, many say a cut to the workforce is inevitable. But just how many state employees are there, exactly? And how much do they cost the taxpayers?

The state’s payroll The State of Minnesota, with more than 38,000 workers in its three branches of government, employs more Minnesotans than any private company. Add in employees of the University of Minnesota, the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system and a handful of other state-level entities, and the state’s payroll swells to a total of nearly 76,000 people. That’s roughly 3 percent of all working people in Minnesota. To some, 3 percent might sound like a lot; to others, a little. It should be noted that on a per-capita basis, Minnesota actually has the 10th smallest state workforce in the nation. Either way, some lawmakers question whether the state needs that many workers. “People are asking the question, ‘Why is state government still the one place where we’re growing and expanding?’ And obviously, the workforce is a fairly large component of that,” said Rep. Keith Downey (R-Edina).

Private Sector Employees 86% First Reading continued on page 4

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 3 First Reading continued from page 3 “It’s creating this myth of the public sector running out of control,” Winkler said, The State of Minnesota, with more than Breaking down the numbers calling it “nonsense” that state employees 38,000 workers in its three branches It’s true that state spending has increased haven’t shared the pain. of government, employs more in recent years — nearly 38 percent since In fact, MMB documents show while Minnesotans than any private company. 2001, according to Minnesota Management state spending has grown since 2001, the & Budget. It’s also true that state employees size of the state workforce has remained Add in employees of the University collectively essentially flat, of Minnesota, the Minnesota State received pay and even dipped Colleges and Universities system and increases in each “People are asking the slightly during a handful of other state-level entities, biennium during question, ‘Why is state the middle of the and the state’s payroll swells to a total that time period last decade. With of nearly 76,000 people. That’s roughly government still the one place 3 percent of all working people in — as high as 6.4 where we’re growing and employee salaries percent in fiscal accounting for Minnesota. years 2002-03, expanding?’ And obviously, such a small and as low as 0.6 the workforce is a fairly large portion of the percent in the component of that.” budget, and with is looming. He worries that if the state hires current biennium. — Rep. Keith Downey the size of the all new workers to replace the old ones, it will And in two of the R-Edina workforce largely cement its current employee cost structure last five biennia, unchanged, for decades. the increases Winkler suspects “If we’re ever really going to have a chance exceeded the rate of inflation, according to talk of cutting state employees is motivated to reinvent the basic model of government MMB. by politics. employment, I think we ought to take a But overall, state employees account for “The Republican message is that look at it seriously now, and do things today only a small fraction of the total cost of state government is bad,” Winkler said. “As long so that we’re not locking ourselves into our government. In the last full two-year budget as they can get the public thinking that current model for the future,” he said. cycle (fiscal years 2008-2009), the state spent government can’t do anything right, then Rather than relying on layoffs, the bill $4.5 billion to compensate its roughly 34,000 they have a better chance of enacting their would seek to downsize the executive branch executive-branch workers. That figure includes broader business and corporate agenda.” through mostly attrition. It would establish everything — salaries, health insurance, an early retirement incentive program to pensions, federal payroll tax, etc. During that A changing workforce reduce the number of workers, and then leave same biennium, the state had a total budget At the forefront of the debate is HF4, the details to Gov. Mark Dayton about which of $55.1 billion. Do the math, and you’ll find which would require a 15 percent reduction agencies would retain how many jobs. employee compensation accounted for only (roughly 5,100 employees) in the number But regardless of how reductions are 8 percent of the state’s budget. of executive-branch workers by 2015. done or who makes the decisions, Winkler Where does the rest of the money go? Downey, who sponsors the bill, said that it said cutting workers can have unintended By and large, state dollars go to fund is not part of a campaign to stigmatize state consequences. Among the jobs terminated prog rams li ke workers. Rather, when the executive branch downsized briefly K-12 education he argues it’s in the early 2000s were MMB auditors. and health and “The Republican message is an opportunity Winkler draws a direct line between their human services, that government is bad. . . . As to innovate absence and a flurry of high-profile financial where the state long as they can get the public and streamline fraud and waste cases at state agencies in the provides money government latter part of the decade. but others — thinking that government “When the agency that was supposed can’t do anything right, then services. school districts, “To get better, to be doing all this oversight and financial c o u nt i e s a n d they have a better chance of and to deliver management had all these people disappear nursing homes, enacting their broader business more for less … money started to disappear from big to name a few and corporate agenda.” thinking we agencies,” he said. — provide the — Rep. Ryan Winkler can go forward In 2009, Winkler and Downey teamed services. DFL-St. Louis Park with the same up to pass legislation that boosted financial This calls into workforce is accountability at state agencies. But Winkler question whether just impossible,” said it goes to show that lawmakers should downsizing the state’s workforce would Downey said. carefully consider the potential impact of make much of an impact on the budget. He points out that Minnesota has an aging cuts before they make them. Rep. Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley) state workforce. As of 2010, the median “If it’s a government reform effort, then said it wouldn’t, and he said efforts to cut age of executive-branch employees was you should take the time to figure out what the number of state employees are borne approaching 51. With an average retirement the effect of your reform will be,” he said. out of public misconceptions about state age of 61, Downey said a wave of retirements government.

4 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 HIGHLIGHTS JAU N A RY 20 - 27, 2011

Editor’s note: The following Highlights are New start coverage of select information heard in House committees and other House activities held Jan. 20-27. Designations used in Highlight summaries: HF-House File; SF-Senate File; Ch- Chapter; and *- the bill version considered by the House or the bill language signed by the governor.

Budget

Zero-based budgeting approved Lawmakers would have to begin building the state’s biennial budget from scratch, if a bill approved by a House committee becomes law. Sponsored by Rep. King Banaian (R-St. Cloud), HF2 would require the state to use zero-based budgeting. In this method of photo by tom olmscheid budgeting, the base funding level for every Ex-offender Natalie Streiff gets the support of her boyfriend, Chris Flanagan, during state agency is assumed to be zero. Agencies a Second Chance rally in the Capitol Rotunda Jan. 26. The Minnesota Second Chance present a “decision package” for lawmakers, Coalition is a partnership of more than 50 organizations that advocate for fair and detailing every individual activity the agency responsible laws, policies and practices to help ex-offenders become productive members carries out and providing three funding of their communities. options: the minimal level, the current level and the desired level. “We have prisoners in jail, and they have for the Builders Association of Minnesota The House Government Operations to be guarded, and there’s going to be costs said they need more time to get the word out and Elections Committee approved the there. And to say, ‘Well, at the end of the to its members that the posting is required bill and referred it to the House State biennium, that’s going to go away’ seems a and for them to comply. Government Finance Committee. Sen. little disingenuous,” Nelson said. The new effective date would be Aug. 1, Roger Chamberlain (R-Lino Lakes) sponsors — N. Busse 2011, instead of Feb. 1, 2011. the companion, SF146, which awaits action A companion, SF139, sponsored by Sen. by the Senate State Government Innovation Ted Lillie (R-Lake Elmo), awaits action and Veterans Committee. Business & Commerce by the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Banaian said one advantage of zero-based Committee. budgeting is that it engages personnel at state — K. Berggren agencies who can provide input on where More time to post lead certification money would be best spent. Residential remodelers, building “The Legislature can’t reach down into contractors and other construction specialists Education an agency and find that mid-level manager could have more time to post their lead that knows how to save $10,000 on a supply certification qualifications on a website as budget,” he said. required by the Environmental Protection Parent Aware The bill would instruct state budget Agency. The Minnesota Early Learning Foundation officials not to forecast expenditures beyond The House Commerce and Regulatory recommended to the House Education the end of the current fiscal biennium. Reform Committee approved HF166, Finance Committee Jan. 25 a statewide Forecasts currently include information on sponsored by Rep. Karen Clark (DFL- rollout of its Parent Aware child care rating both projected revenues and expenditures Mpls) Jan. 26. The bill, which now goes to system as a means to get more children ready into the next two fiscal biennia. the House floor, would amend the effective for kindergarten learning and beyond. Some members suggested zero-based date of last year’s law that brought the state The foundation, a public-private budgeting is impractical. Rep. Mike Nelson building code into compliance with the partnership due to sunset at the end of the (DFL-Brooklyn Park) said some agencies, EPA requirements regarding lead removal year, has invested $20 million of private funds like the Department of Corrections, can’t certification reporting. to operate a pilot child care rating system, be eliminated. Lisa Frenette, government affairs director Parent Aware, since 2007 in Minneapolis,

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 5 St. Paul and Wayzata plus Blue Earth and 2012. Assessment data will not be used to Nicollet counties. isolate teachers who don’t do well, she said. State of the state address Parent Aware rates child care providers Instead, aggregated data will highlight where Gov. Mark Dayton is scheduled to deliver his State of the State message in the House Cham- on their quality and funded quality teacher preparation programs can modify ber during a joint session of the Minnesota improvements and training for providers, their curriculum or instruction. State Legislature, Wednesday, Feb. 9, at noon. plus provides scholarships for some families Misty Sato, a University of Minnesota The address can be watched on the House who can’t afford market rate care. professor of teacher development, distributed website, www.house.mn, and statewide on public television’s MN Channel. Laurie Davis, MELF policy director, a sample assessment for secondary English said the pilots have empowered parents; language arts teacher candidates. It maintained consistency of care; and prepared requires a variety of supporting materials the repeal. Jan Alswager, Education children for kindergarten, as measured by including student work samples, video clips Minnesota chief lobbyist, said teacher their pre-literacy, pre-numeracy skills and of instruction, supervisor surveys and a strikes since 1995 only occurred during years social and emotional development. teacher candidate’s own reflective writing. without a deadline. She noted the trend is MELF recommends a “train and retain” The criteria are based on subject content that contracts settled earlier in the school tax credit for providers to take classes in knowledge and pedagogy, as well as the year generally result in higher wage increases child development and a “hero tax credit” candidate’s “disposition” for working with than those settling closer to the deadline. for donors to Parent Aware scholarship or various learners. “Deadlines get things done,” she said. program improvement funds. Committee Chairwoman Sondra Erickson Downey said the one-sided penalty “Wouldn’t it be more efficient just to fund (R-Princeton) said TPA could connect the dots jeopardized good-faith negotiations in his sliding fee child care?” Rep. Mindy Greiling between the state’s academic standards and how district and had the unintended consequence (DFL-Roseville) said. She supports the teachers are prepared to convey that content. of eroding a previously positive dynamic quality ratings, but said tax credits don’t help “This is very encouraging to me,” she said. between teachers and the community. many poor families. Rep. Rena Moran (DFL-St. Paul) is Scott Croonquist, Association of Davis said Child Care Assistance Program concerned about collecting data on the Metropolitan School Districts executive funds, for which some families qualify, are not effectiveness of current teachers, not only director, supports a repeal or modifications required to be linked to quality rated programs, future ones. “I think that kind of assessment to the law, such as moving the deadline up nor do they reimburse providers at their market is so, so important right now, because we have so it doesn’t interfere with the school year or rate. She said reforming the system to link a whole population of our young people who requiring arbitration as with other essential funding with quality is a long-term goal. are not succeeding.” public employee groups. MELF Executive Director Duane Benson — K. Berggren “Our board members just fail to called the credit an incentive that could drive understand how when we have a law that investment and be used for scholarships. Contract deadline repeal OK’d penalizes students when the adults don’t get Rep. Keith Downey (R-Edina) said the pilot Two bills that would repeal the biennial the job done makes sense,” he said. may be a model for how to deliver services with contract deadline for resolving collective A companion to Barrett’s bill, value, adding that the rigorous pilot study bargaining agreements between school SF148, sponsored by Sen. Sean Nienow produced sound data and is “absolutely a basis districts and their teachers union were (R-Cambridge), awaits action by the Senate for making good policy decisions.” approved Jan. 27 by the House Education Education Committee. Downey’s bill has no — K. Berggren Reform Committee. Senate companion. HF115, sponsored by Rep. Bob Barrett — K. Berggren Leading in new teacher assessment (R-Shafer), and HF92, sponsored by Rep. House Education Reform Committee Keith Downey (R-Edina), would repeal the members glimpsed a new way of measuring Jan. 15 deadline and $25 per pupil state aid Employment teacher effectiveness Jan. 25. penalty imposed on districts if the deadline The Teacher Performance Assessment, isn’t met. The bills now go to the House created at Stanford University, is being Education Finance Committee. Unemployment extension approved piloted in 20 states. Minnesota is one of six Recently the Minneapolis school district Unemployed Minnesotans would be on an accelerated timeline for scaling the incurred an $800,000 penalty; St. Cloud eligible for a 13-week extension to their process statewide, said Board of Teaching $500,000; and Edina $230,000. unemployment benefits under a bill that won Executive Director Karen Balmer. “I think the repeal is necessary so that both committee approval Jan. 25. “We really are leading the nation in this parties can have the same set of rules,” Barrett Sponsored by Rep. Rich Murray (R-Albert work,” Balmer said. “And that’s very exciting, said, saying the deadline and penalty distorts Lea), HF103 would also remove restrictions on and it’s also very scary because the stakes are the bargaining process. the amount of benefits that can be paid to adult high and we need to get it right.” She said that Mike McLoughlin, Chisago Lakes school children who work for their parents’ businesses. traditionally, the board’s approval of teacher superintendent, said while the intent of the Members of the House Jobs and Economic preparation programs is based on “input” deadline holds merit because it expedites Development Finance Committee referred such as course content and syllabi rather than the negotiation process, it has negative the bill to the House Taxes Committee. It’s outcome-based data about student learning. consequences in terms of school finances and Senate companion is SF114 sponsored by Balmer expects TPA to be embedded in teacher and community morale. Sen. John Pederson (R-St. Cloud). teacher preparation programs statewide by The state’s largest teachers’ union opposes The bill would give Minnesotans access

6 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 to a federal extension of unemployment minority would give the commission some affordable and abundant electrical energy so insurance benefits recently passed by Congress continuity of knowledge when majority we can live our lives healthy, prosperous and and signed by President Obama. Qualifying control changes hands. free.” Minnesotans would be eligible for a maximum “Pensions are one of the most difficult But members, environmental organizations of 86 weeks of benefits, under the change. issues that the legislature deals with,” Kahn and student groups said allowing coal-fueled Murray said the extension is funded said. energy would result in increased pollution completely by the federal government and Chairwoman Joyce Peppin (R-Rogers) and higher energy costs. would not cost the state’s UI trust fund, praised the bill and called it a good idea Rep. Jean Wagenius (DFL-Mpls) said which is currently $600 million in deficit. He to include more minority members on the the increased pollution could lead to more said the new federal extensions could bring commission. health-related problems and increased health $160 million into the state’s economy. “I think it’s important that we have care costs. To counteract emissions entering Some committee members raised concerns more people who are knowledgeable about Minnesota from North Dakota, Minnesota about the provision to allow Minnesotans pensions,” Peppin said. businesses would have to agree to lower their to collect full unemployment benefits — N. Busse emissions in order to meet federal emission when they are laid off from their parents’ standards, she added. businesses. The bill would essentially repeal Energy A representative of the Minnesota a law that was enacted last year to provide Chamber of Commerce and Bill Glahn, no more than five weeks of benefits to these former director of the Office of Energy individuals. Lift of coal moratorium sought Security, spoke in favor of the bill. Craig Gustafson, the state’s chief UI law Testimony is scheduled to continue Feb. Glahn said the fact that utilities are not judge, said last year’s change was intended to 1 on a bill to repeal a portion of the Next applying for nuclear or coal power plants prevent employers from “gaming the system” Generation Energy Act of 2007 regarding may be more indicative of the moratoriums by hiring their own children for seasonal carbon dioxide emissions. rather than the counter argument that those work and then laying them off so they can Sponsored by Rep. Mike Beard fuel sources are not in demand. collect unemployment. He said the practice (R-Shakopee), HF72 would remove a ban on A companion bill, SF86, sponsored creates a $100 million subsidy that benefits new coal-generating plants certain small businesses, such as summer of 50 megawatts or more. It Disability Day resorts, at the expense of others. would also allow utilities to Rep. Bev Scalze (DFL-Little Canada), a import electricity from coal small-business owner, argued the provision plants outside the state, such would “subsidize bad behavior.” as the Great River Energy — N. Busse plant in Spiritwood, N.D. The act limits new Pension commission electricity from coal in The Legislative Commission on Pensions order to control carbon and Retirement would grow larger and more dioxide emissions that are bipartisan under a bill approved by a House believed to contribute to committee Jan. 27. climate change. The law Sponsored by Rep. Phyllis Kahn allows for exceptions to (DFL-Mpls), HF110 would expand the the moratorium, such commission’s total membership from 10 as if the Public Utilities to 14. It would also grow the proportion of Commission deems a committee membership from the minority project essential to the long- parties of the House and Senate. term reliability of the state’s The House Government Operations and electrical grid. Elections Committee approved the bill and The House Environment, referred it to the House State Government Energy and Natural Finance Committee. There is no Senate Resources Policy and companion. Finance Committee heard The commission’s current membership testimony Jan. 27, but took comprises five members each from the no action. House and Senate. Its job is to make Beard called the ban of recommendations to the Legislature on importing energy fueled by managing the state’s pension funds. coal “ill-advised,” adding, Minority party representation on the “This bill will liberate and commission has been traditionally limited empower (people) with a photo by tom olmscheid to one member each from the House and robust and reliable supply Andrea Svang uses an Echo communication device to Senate. Kahn argued that requiring at least of what we call the master talk with her care provider during a Disability Matters Day rally in the Capitol Rotunda Jan. 25. four commission members to be from the resource, that would be

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 7 by Sen. Julie Rosen (R-Fairmont), awaits Rep. Bill Hilty (DFL-Finlayson) transference of prion, a bad protein, and is action by the Senate Energy, Utilities and unsuccessfully offered to table the vote until not caused by a virus, fungus or bacteria. Telecommunications Committee. an environmental permit process review, now Prions can transfer between deer, elk or — S. Hegarty underway by the Office of the Legislative moose from nose-to-nose contact or lay active Auditor, is released. The vote was 10-6. in the ground for years, perhaps decades, The bill now goes to the House Judiciary Cornicelli said. Env. & Natural Resources Policy and Finance Committee. Sen. Bill No action was taken. Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria) sponsors its One of the next steps could be to ban companion, SF42, which awaits action by the recreational deer feeding, such as salt licks. Streamlining environmental permit Senate Environment and Natural Resources More detailed information can be found on Gov. Mark Dayton’s executive order that Committee. the DNR website. will streamline the environmental permitting — S. Hegarty — S. Hegarty process within two state agencies did not deter the House Civil Law Committee from approving a bill Jan. 24 that would similarly Game & Fish Health & Human Services modify timelines, plus two additional modifications. The bipartisan goal is to make the permit CWD found in wild deer Children, families program overview application process more efficient with the Preliminary findings confirm that Chronic Children and Family Services comprise Department of Natural Resources and the Wasting Disease, a deadly brain and nervous 11 percent of the Department of Human Minnesota Pollution Control Agency so system disorder found in deer, elk, and moose Services’ budget, Assistant Commissioner that businesses are not inclined to move to was found in a wild deer harvested near Pine Erin Sullivan Sutton told the House Health another state. Island. and Human Services Finance Committee Sponsored by Rep. Dan Fabian (R-Roseau), Lou Cornicelli, big game program Jan. 25. HF1 would require the DNR and MPCA coordinator for the Department of Natural Many of the programs, such as the to issue or deny environmental and resource Resources told the House Environment, Minnesota Family Investment Program, management permits within 150 days of a Energy and Natural Resources Policy and child care assistance grants and children’s submitted application. So does the executive Finance Committee Jan. 25 that previous services grants are supported by both state order, which takes effect in mid-February. The disease cases had been confined to captive and federal money. Of that state share “55 bill would also allow the judicial review process deer. The discovery set a surveillance protocol percent of the child welfare expenses are to be done directly by the Court of Appeals. in motion that may result in deer-feeding borne by property tax dollars,” Sutton said. Now, a district court performs the work. restrictions and tap into the DNR Game and Sullivan Sutton noted that MFIP, which Thaddeus Lightfoot, an attorney with the Fish Fund to help pay for containment and provides cash benefits to low-income families Environmental Law Group, said the district eradication. for cash and food supports, has a five-year and appeals courts perform essentially the Fifty cents of every deer hunting license limit. The program works in combination same review and it’s a duplication of effort goes into a special health account to pay for with a Diversionary Work Program and a and attorney fees. But citizen groups oppose such efforts, but Ed Boggess, acting director work benefit that help families to avoid long- removing the stop in district court, which is of the DNR Fish and Wildlife Division, said term assistance. In conjunction there are typically geographically closer to those who there are more expenditures than revenue 44,711 families receiving an average monthly want to attend a court hearing. generated for health-related issues. payment of $655. The average federal food The other wrinkle in HF1 is the provision “This is really tragic news for our almost portion for an MFIP family is $378 a month. that would allow the proposer of a project half-million deer hunters,” said Committee Rep. Steve Gottwalt (R-St. Cloud) asked to prepare a draft environmental impact Chairman Denny McNamara (R-Hastings). if there was a formal process for finding out statement, rather than the state agency that The discovery occurred during laboratory if programs accomplish the goals they are requires it. Fabian said a $12,000 ditch analysis of more than 500 samples taken intended to achieve. cleanup project in his district has escalated to from hunter harvested deer taken within a The state does measure and report county $405,000 due to government inaction. Such 20-mile radius of Pine Island in southeastern outcomes, Sullivan Sutton said. Measuring cases “crush our local economy,” he said. Minnesota. This is the only suspected case, and performance is really to encourage continuous However, Rep. Mary Liz Holberg further analysis by the National Veterinary improvement in services, but nobody gets it (R-Lakeville) and several DFL members Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, is right all the time, she added. said the bill, as written, may not accomplish expected by the end of the week, Cornicelli said. Rep. Joe McDonald (R-Delano) asked Fabian’s intent to keep the environmental Time is of the essence, he added, because what the return on investment is for those review process publicly transparent. Some when weather conditions improve, deer participating in programs. fear the bill would enable private companies will disperse, making further testing more Sullivan Sutton said most families exit to prepare the draft EIS and to withhold difficult. DNR officials hope to complete an programs within two years and also obtain information under the Data Practices Act. aerial survey to locate deer within a 10-mile and maintain employment, but families Holberg said she’ll work with Fabian and radius of where the infected female deer was sometimes need to return to the program. other committee members to clarify the found. — P. Ostberg language. Chronic Wasting Disease is spread by the

8 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 we meet with the family of people killed by Public Safety careless drivers. We always get the question, ‘Why is there no stronger law?’” Hersey said. “We believe this will give judges more Penalty for deadly careless driving options.” Most, if not all, victim crimes in state — M. Cook statute contain harsher penalties based on the damage done. The same goes for property State firearm background checks crimes. Minnesotans currently wanting to buy a Supporters of a bill want penalty handgun or semiautomatic military-style enhancements when it comes to some assault weapon from a federally licensed instances of careless driving. dealer must first obtain a state permit Sponsored by Rep. Pat Garofalo through their local police. (R-Farmington), HF68 would increase the Approved on a 10-7 party-line vote, the penalty to a gross misdemeanor for careless House Public Safety and Crime Prevention driving if it results in the death of another Policy and Finance Committee approved a person. bill Jan. 26 to skip the state authorization. Approved Jan. 26 by the House Public The bill, which has no Senate companion, Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and was sent to the House Civil Law Committee. Finance Committee, the bill next goes to Rep. Steve Drazkowski (R-Mazeppa), the the House Judiciary Policy and Finance sponsor of HF161, said the bill, as amended, Committee. It has no Senate companion. simply removes an unfunded local mandate photo by andrew vonbank Current law provides that when a person he called “a redundancy in the law.” Dennis Flaherty, executive director of the is found to be carelessly driving and causes He said the current law was written in Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association, the death of another person, they can be testifies Jan. 26 before the House Public Safety 1977, long before the ability to perform and Crime Prevention Policy and Finance charged with either a misdemeanor — the almost instantaneous federal background Committee against a bill that would repeal a equivalent of running a stop sign — or a checks. state requirement that anyone wanting to buy a felony. Probable cause must be shown to get State permits must be renewed every year. handgun or semiautomatic military-style assault a felony conviction. weapon from a federally-licensed dealer must Drazkowski said a sheriff in a county with first obtain a state permit. “This would create a third option, where a population of 21,000 said this bill would only in those cases where a person is first of save 30 minutes to one hour of staff time per all negligent, and second of all, their action week. “If you extrapolate that up to some of Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen (R-Glencoe) results in the death of another individual, the metro counties, you’re looking at a full noted that no database is going to be perfect. it would give the option or the flexibility position or positions that will be able to be “Over 35 states are satisfied with the of charging with a gross misdemeanor,” eliminated by the cities and counties in those federal system. … With the availability Garofalo said. jurisdictions because of the elimination of of guns in our society, I’m not sure that a Nancy Johnson, president of Minnesotans this redundant mandate.” permit process is overly effective in keeping for Safe Driving, would like “great bodily Representatives from the police chief the guns out of the hands of those that want harm” added to the bill, but said the and officer associations spoke against the to commit crime.” organization supports the current proposal. bill arguing, in part, it weakens public Firearm transfers between private Rep. Joe Mullery (DFL-Mpls) was one of protection. individuals are not subject to state or federal at a least a couple of members to audibly vote “We strongly feel that these local checks background checks. against the bill. are not redundant,” said Dennis Flaherty, — M. Cook “Some of the top prosecutors in the state executive director of the Minnesota Police have told me this is a very bad bill, and that and Peace Officers Association. “I’ve never Penalty for harm to police dog it’ll take away their possibility to get felonies heard a chief of police complain about the Major was honored in November for his on really bad cases,” he said. resources it takes to do this. ... I’d rather us work with the Roseville Police Deparment. Garofalo said the Minnesota County err in being complete on these checks.” One day later he nearly died. Attorneys Association has expressed support Bloomington Police Sgt. Mark Elliott The German Shepherd was stabbed Nov. for a third way to charge; however, he said two provisions in Minnesota are 12 as Roseville police assisted Maplewood wouldn’t “state their support” for his exact more restrictive than the federal database. officers responding to a break-in. bill. Someone charged with a crime of violence After finding a suspect, officers heard Major Scott Hersey, head of the Criminal Division and placed in a pretrial diversion program crying in pain. After a couple of minutes of of the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, said before a disposition would be ineligible frantic searching the dog was found. He had the county attorney’s association approved to get a permit under Minnesota law, but been stabbed four times. He was rushed to the a proposal Jan. 21 that is “substantially and would get a federal OK. The other is for gross University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical substantively” the same as the Garofalo bill. misdemeanor offenses, including crimes Center for emergency surgery. While Major “I’ve been to a number of meetings where committed for the benefit of a gang, stalking survived, he did not regain use of his back legs. and child neglect. The 21-year-old suspect pleaded guilty

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 9 the animal or loss or impairment of a body counties” that could serve as “incubators of organ. Mandatory restitution in such cases innovation” for service delivery. would be up to $25,000 to help care for the His testimony followed that of Gopal injured animal and the purchase and training Khanna, lead co-chair of the Commission on of another dog. Service Innovation, who said the state needed It would also extend the gross misdemeanor to reinvent its services to be more dynamic offense of harming a public safety dog to and responsive to citizens. cases where the dog suffers demonstrable “We in the public sector have not done bodily harm. Mandatory restitution could enough to foster an environment of constant be up to $10,000. innovation,” Khanna said. Further, the bill would create a new offense Committee Chairman Morrie Lanning whereby it is a misdemeanor to assault a (R-Moorhead) praised Murphy’s testimony, public safety dog where the animal does not and encouraged him to submit a list of rules suffer “demonstrable bodily harm.” that he believes serve as a barrier to innovation Mark Ficcadenti, head trainer with the St. in state-mandated health and human services Paul Police Canine Unit, said it costs about programs. Rep. Keith Downey (R-Edina) $7,500 to acquire a suitable dog for this role, called Murphy’s testimony “really, really plus the additional training costs. good stuff.” — M. Cook — N. Busse

State Government Judicial backlogs, delays Even with the redesign and efficiency efforts that began in 2008, courts are experiencing Better government for less? delays, Fifth Judicial District Judge John Counties could deliver better services with Rodenberg told the House Judiciary Policy less money if the state would only let them and Finance Committee Jan. 25 experiment with new ways of doing things. Budget cuts in recent years have resulted in photo by andrew vonbank That was the message from one county the state’s 10 judicial districts incorporating With his injured canine partner, Major, lying by official to members of the House State new technologies to reduce costs such as his side, Roseville Police Officer John Jorgensen testifies Jan. 27 before the House Public Safety Government Finance Committee during a online payment for citations; and remote and Crime Prevention Policy and Finance Com- hearing on government innovation Jan. 26. video and audio interpreting, Rodenberg said. mittee in support of a bill that would increase the No action was taken. Even with these efficiencies, the system is penalties for injuring public safety dogs. County Administrator Tony Murphy backlogged and overburdened with the 1.6 said Beltrami County has been able to million district court cases filed in 2010, he said. earlier this month to the stabbing. He is lower its property tax levy over the last “Recently three criminal convictions were scheduled to be sentenced in February. two years while providing better and more reversed by the Court of Appeals because the “Even though Major’s sitting here next to efficient services. It has done so, he said, by system wasn’t able to provide speedy trials in me today — my family and I are very glad switching to an “outcome-based” approach a fashion required by law,” Rodenburg said. he’s still with us — he essentially killed him to state government, where officials focus on Thirty percent of the abused children taken as a police dog,” said Officer John Jorgensen, measuring results rather than just complying out of their homes take longer than one year Major’s partner. with state mandates. to be made available for permanency, returned Sponsored by Rep. Tony Cornish (R-Good The problem, he said, is that the state often home or placed for adoption, he added. Thunder), HF141 would increase the penalty gets in the way. Hennepin County Chief Judge James for injuring public safety dogs and would “The barriers come from the real seat of Swenson said the judicial branch provides impose mandatory restitution on offenders power in state government — the agencies,” drug and alcohol problem solving courts who harm public safety dogs. Murphy said. that use evidence-based practices to stop Approved Jan. 27 by the House Public Murphy said most of the services counties people from cycling through the system. Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and provide are mandated by the state. He said The benefits include reduced criminal costs, Finance Committee, the bill next goes to the agencies that oversee counties’ delivery improved public safety and fewer children the House Judiciary Policy and Finance of services are often more concerned with in need of child protection, said Swenson. Committee. Its companion, SF121, how services are delivered than the outcomes Such programs would be at risk under more sponsored by Sen. Dan Hall (R-Burnsville), they produce. As an example, he said the budget cuts, he said. awaits action by the Senate Judiciary and county has changed its chemical dependency The court systems have a duty to deliver a Public Safety Committee. treatment program to focus more on ensuring prompt remedy without delay in legal issues, As amended, the bill would extend the the long-term health of clients. said State Court Administrator Sue Dosal. current two-year felony for killing a public To help foster reform, Murphy suggested “Justice delayed is justice denied,” she added. safety dog to offenses of causing “great bodily letting counties experiment with new ways Rep. Tony Cornish (R-Good Thunder) harm” to such animals, including those of delivering services by abolishing outdated questioned the cost of providing court-aided which cause permanent disfigurement of state rules, or by establishing “charter interpreters. “I agree that everybody coming

10 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 before the court should have an interpreter members who are not re-elected to vacate … the longer we keep doing that, is that their office by Dec. 15. Taxes incentivizing people not to learn English?” Additionally, nonpartisan House Interpreters cost the court about $3.4 Research Department staff is prevented million per year, said Dosal. from representing the House or its Animal shelters seek tax exemption Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL-Rochester) members as counsel of record in a judicial or Milo and Joey were silent testifiers in said court language includes jargon that administrative proceeding. support of a bill that would exempt from “oftentimes English speakers don’t even — L. Schutz state sales tax the sale of animals by nonprofit understand … even if you speak very good animal shelters. English you may still need an interpreter.” Sunset Commission bill approved The two puppies are from Last Hope, The committee took no action. Every Minnesota state agency would have Inc., a nonprofit, volunteer-operated animal — P. Ostberg to justify its existence at least once every rescue in Farmington. Sandra Shirley, a 12 years, under a bill approved by a House rescue volunteer, told the House Taxes Restriction on floor amendments committee Jan. 26. Committee the bill would save them nearly While in charge last biennium, DFLers Sponsored by Rep. Joyce Peppin (R-Rogers), $15,000 annually in sales tax payments — put into the permanent House Rules the HF173 would establish a 12-member money that could go toward veterinary and ability to limit debate on the House floor. Sunset Commission whose job would be to food costs for the animals. She said voluntary The new Republican majority lifted the rule, determine whether to continue, abolish or animal adoption fees collected last year did and, instead, successfully placed one on the reorganize state agencies. not cover their expenses. type of amendments that can be offered on Using criteria such as efficiency, “We made up for it with private donations. the House floor. purpose, jurisdiction and effectiveness, the With the economy, our donations are slowing According to the nonpartisan House commission would determine whether a down,” she said. Research Department, the new rule would public need exists for each state agency, and Sponsored by Rep. Pat Garofalo restrict any amendment to increase spending make recommendations to the Legislature (R-Farmington), HF36 would allow the from any fund from which appropriations are on what actions, if any, should be taken. exemption if the organization’s main purpose made in the bill or if the amendment would The bill would further establish deadlines is animal rescue and the price of the animal increase spending from all funds. for the expiration of various agencies, boards does not exceed reasonable costs incurred in It was part of the rules approved 102-27 by and commissions. Lawmakers would have its care prior to its sale. The estimated cost to the body Jan. 27. to take legislative action to ensure their the General Fund for the exemption in fiscal In a procedural abnormality when the continuation. Peppin said this would prevent year 2012 would be $306,000. new rules were heard in the House Rules lawmakers from ignoring the commission’s and Legislative Administration Committee recommendations. Jan. 24, House Majority Leader Matt Members of the House Government Dean (R-Dellwood), committee chairman, Operations and Elections Committee adjourned the meeting before the vote was approved the bill and referred it to the House taken for approval. State Government Finance Committee. He quickly said “reconvene” and asked There is no Senate companion. members to take their seats. The DFL Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL-Mpls) members left the meeting. A quorum was said it should be the job of the Legislature present, and the changes were sent to the to determine whether agencies need to House floor for consideration. be abolished. He noted lawmakers took That prompted a reminder from Rep. action several years ago to eliminate the Gene Pelowski Jr. (DFL-Winona) when the Department of Employee Relations. rules were up for a vote on the House floor. Peppin responded that legislators have “Rules should be the committee having the not been diligent about reviewing agencies’ highest standards of the body.” He cautioned effectiveness. that committee chairs need to ensure that “It is a discussion of whether we want to members have a full understanding of the force the issue… and in my opinion, we need procedure to minimize irregularities. to do that,” she said. “We understood what happened; we voted Also at the meeting, most of the provisions of the rules out properly,” Dean said. Peppin’s bill were amended into HF2. Sponsored Before the rules were passed by the full by Rep. King Banaian (R-St. Cloud), the bill body, they were amended to add corporations would establish the Sunset Commission and and labor unions to the list that members also require the state to use zero-based budgeting. photo by tom olmscheid may not solicit contributions from during a A companion to that bill, SF146, sponsored Joey, a rescued puppy from Last Hope, Inc., in legislative session. by Sen. Roger Chamberlain (R-Lino Lakes), Farmington, shows his affection for Rep. Pat Another rule requires members who are awaits action by the Senate State Government Garofalo as the representative presents a bill that would exempt rescued pet sales from sales not seeking re-election to vacate their offices Innovation and Veterans Committee. tax during a Jan. 25 hearing of the House Taxes by Dec. 1 of their last year of service, and — N. Busse Committee.

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 11 The illb was laid over for possible inclusion whatever you all decide is the purpose of The report notes that government operation in an omnibus tax bill. It has no Senate LGA,” she said. of transit “is complex and fraught with companion. A major revision to LGA in 2003 was distrust.” It indicates coordination between the Rep. Jim Davnie (DFL-Mpls) questioned criticized for being too volatile and not Metropolitan Council, the planning agency for the ability to charge sales tax on what, in meeting the needs of certain cities, such the seven-county metropolitan area, and other essence, could be considered a donation to as suburbs, according to Dalton’s report. transit organizations has been difficult when the organization. Reforms in 2008 addressed some of the the different groups must work together. “I thought I understood that if I received complaints. For example, when state voters passed something of value in exchange for the Division Chairwoman Linda Runbeck a constitutional amendment to allocate donation I could not then claim the donation (R-Circle Pines) is organizing an LGA additional motor vehicle sales tax revenue to as a deduction,” he said. working group to revisit the LGA formula transit, suburban transit providers expected Joel Michael, a nonpartisan House and criteria. the money to be allocated based on a formula. Research Department analyst, explained Rep. Paul Marquart (DFL-Dilworth), who Instead, according to the report, the Met the difference between a personal income tax chaired the division the last four years, said Council distributes the supplemental money deduction for a donation and the bill’s intent that starting any discussion about a LGA based on regional priorities. for a sales tax exemption to an organization. overhaul should not begin on a false premise. “Because the process for developing “The question in this case is whether the He affirmed that it was intended for transit ways in the region relies on local individual adopting the animal is making a property tax relief and to support basic initiatives and funding, there are multiple true donation or if they are paying for the services. “LGA was not started to deal with transit corridors being evaluated without animal. If you look at the bill, it doesn’t say law enforcement as a specific thing.” a common understanding of the region’s donations … but sale as defined under the Rep. Ann Lenczewski (DFL- transit priorities,” the report states. “Each sales tax,” he said. Bloomington), former House Taxes community considers its transit project to — L. Schutz Committee chairwoman, said the LGA be a priority, but the project may not be a formula needs revision; noting, that it may priority for the region.” Dispelling LGA’s urban myth be a politically difficult decision for some, State statutes do not prioritize transit Once termed a great equalizer of services especially for members in districts where goals. offered by communities across the state, communities rely heavily on the state aid. “The Met Council’s lack of credibility local government aid, or LGA as it is — L. Schutz stems from the governance structure of the commonly known, has become complicated Council itself,” the report states. Because the to understand. 17 council members are appointed by the During a recent overview by the Transportation governor, some outsiders believe the council nonpartisan House Research Department, is more focused on pushing the governor’s Rep. Bob Barrett (R-Shafer) said, “You are agenda, rather than supporting the region as trying to teach us college algebra and I’m Transit governance concerns raised a whole or the district from which they were looking for a solution that requires fifth- A new evaluation report notes that the selected. grade math.” transit system throughout the Twin Cities The report suggests making the council a But it’s the purpose for which LGA was metropolitan area has performed well mix of appointed and elected members, all created in 1971 that was on the minds of compared to peer cities, but there is plenty serving staggered terms. several new members to the House Property of room for improvement when it comes to “This is a first step to lead to a more and Local Tax Division Jan. 25. No action transit governance. streamlined governance,” said Judy Randall, was taken. “Reform is needed, but it won’t be the project evaluation manager. “Being a former mayor, I’ve heard the easy to accomplish,” Legislative Auditor — M. Cook urban legend, if you will, that it was for James Nobles told the Legislative Audit infrastructure, especially for public safety, Commission. especially fire protection,” said Rep. Joe Released Jan. 21 by the Office of the Frequently called numbers Area code 651 McDonald (R-Delano). Legislative Auditor, the report recommends House Public Information Services ...... 296-2146 House Research Analyst Pat Dalton that the Legislature should restructure the Toll-free...... 800-657-3550 said that, as far as she could determine, the Metropolitan Council; the transit taxing Chief Clerk of the House...... 296-2314 Legislature put no limits on how the money district should be extended to all areas under House Index...... 296-6646 could be spent. the council’s jurisdiction; and the Legislature Senate Information...... 296-0504 Toll-free “It was to help make sure that all cities should clarify transit priorities and goals for the ...... 888-234-1112 Secretary of the Senate...... 296-2344 could meet their general service needs,” she region. Voice mail/order bills...... 296-2343 said, adding that the Legislature, over the “This is a very important blueprint for Senate Index...... 296-5560 years, has discussed tying the aid formula to legislative action, hopefully on a bipartisan public safety and infrastructure needs. basis,” said Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL-Mpls). “I know one of the big discussions has Nearly $319 million was spent on transit To find out who represents you at the Capitol . . . been, ‘What is the purpose of LGA?’ My operating expenses in 2009, a 24 percent Call House Public Information Services answer to that is the purpose of LGA is increase since 2005. at 651-296-2146 or 800-657-3550

12 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 photo by tom olmscheid A workman in a Bosun’s chair works on the exterior of the Capitol dome last fall. Preserving an engineering feat Capitol dome repairs hope to preserve Minnesota’s statehouse for many years

By Patty Ostberg To correct the humidity issue, a hole was gold-accented achievement in St. enlarged on the inner dome, Schwartz said. Engineers and inspectors found further Paul’s skyline, the Minnesota State deterioration on outside decorative elements, Capitol’s dome is the second-largest including the eagles that stand guard A around the dome, as well as some of the roof self-supportive marble dome in the world. projections. Veined like grains in wood, the marble is long-lasting, but the veins But looks can be deceiving. There are functions as the water transport system. are deteriorating at a faster rate because of actually three domes. The outer dome was designed to allow water Minnesota’s freeze and frost cycles causing Designed after Rome’s St. Peter’s Basilica, to penetrate it, and on the interior of it there’s cracks, Schwartz said. A report expected to architect Cass Gilbert’s engineering feat a gutter system that collects and removes the be completed this summer should detail the has lasted more than 100 years, but it needs water. Over time, the system has deteriorated additional work needed to be completed. upkeep. It’s currently undergoing $4 million along with the joints on the outside marble The majority of the initial exterior work in weatherization repairs. allowing additional water to enter and cause has been completed as well as a good share The initial cost to build the Capitol, which damage to the inside dome, particularly the of the interior work. opened in 1905, was $4.5 million. plaster, Schwartz said. Other repairs include By early summer, Capitol visitors should Department of Administration replacing the windows, louvers and installing be able to again view the dome from inside Communications Director Jim Schwartz a drain for the deck at the top of the dome. once the protective sheeting is removed. said the repairs are to correct aging issues Another major issue is humidity on the The 1-ton chandelier that hangs above the related to water infiltration. Schwartz explains inner dome that is built of a brick structure Rotunda is to be hoisted later this year at a the three-dome structure includes an exterior covered by a rubber membrane. When water ceremony when the fixture will be lit, said dome that people see from the outside, an comes in from the outer dome it falls on Minnesota Historical Society State Capitol interior dome seen while looking up in the the membrane and is directed to a gutter Site Manager Brian Pease. rotunda and an unseen middle dome that system that pipes water out of the building.

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 13 Capitol improvements

A plastic tarp covers the base of the interior dome as work proceeds above to repair water damage and install an air exchange system.

Two scaffolds are erected on either side of the catwalk and across the base of the interior dome and held up by a cable from the top of the dome. The scaffolding can be rotated around the catwalk to Water damage has caused one of the murals and the window sills on the replace two windows at a time. interior dome to deteriorate.

14 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 A metal ring has been installed in the top of the dome to allow hot air to rise into the frost dome. The hot air will then be mixed with cool air and exhausted out of the frost dome to outside the Capitol. Photos by Tom Olmscheid

Harvey Jaeger, principal project coordinator of the Department of Administration’s Real Estate and Construction Services Office, explains the air exchange system that has been installed between the interior and frost dome.

Greg Mathison, front, and Greg Christian of Innovative Building Concepts in Bloomington, install copper flashing at the base of the exterior of the frost dome.

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 15 At Issue: Budget

A head start on budget cuts First bill passed in 2011 would reduce spending by $1 billion

By Nick Busse that they are misguided; and I think we he first bill passed by the House this year need to go through a deliberative process to figure out how we can make this work,” said would take a $1 billion slice out of the state’s Rep. Jeff Hayden (DFL-Mpls). projected $6.2 billion budget shortfall. Members also expressed concern about T a part of the bill that would require state agencies to hold back $199 million in unspent funds in the current fiscal biennium. Gov. Sponsored by Rep. Mary Liz Holberg “If anyone thinks we can balance this budget Mark Dayton’s administration would be given (R-Lakeville), HF130 would cut $181 without making some reductions, you’re discretion over which areas of the budget million in spending in the current biennium not living in reality,” said Rep. Jenifer Loon would be cut, but some members said there’s and reduce the state’s next two-year budget (R-Eden Prairie). not enough money left on the bottom line. by $822 million. Holberg said the bill would Among the largest reductions, city and Rep. Lyle Koenen (DFL-Clara City) said give lawmakers a head county aid would the bill could impact funding for tuition start on addressing be reduced $487.5 reimbursement and reintegration programs the deficit. “We’ve got a big problem million. The for veterans and their families. Rep. Kory “We’ve got a big in front of us. To start property tax refund Kath (DFL-Owatonna) expressed concern problem in front of working on this now credit for renters it could impact funding for flood relief. us. To start working makes sense,” would shrink from Other provisions in the bill include a salary on this now makes — Rep. Mary Liz Holberg 19 percent to 15 freeze for state workers and a package of sense,” she said. R-Lakeville percent of rent federal tax conformity changes. The salary The House passed pa id , reducing freeze would not technically save money in the bill 68-63 on Jan. that program the next biennium, but would prevent pay 27. It now goes to the Senate, where Sen. by $105.9 million. The Minnesota State increases that could grow the budget deficit. Claire Robling (R-Jordan) is the sponsor. Colleges and Universities system would Supporters stressed the urgency of the The bill would extend temporary budget be reduced by $95.8 million, while the state’s looming budget problems. cuts that were passed during last year’s May University of Minnesota would take an “We have been making promises we cannot special session. These include: $594.5 million $89.2 million reduction. keep with money we do not have,” said in reductions to property tax aids and credits; DFL members argued the reductions Rep. Steve Gottwalt (R-St. Cloud). “It’s time $185 million to would lead to higher to get started solving this budget deficit. higher education; property taxes and and $46.5 million to “I think that these cuts college tuition, health and human are reckless; I think that and would further Stay Informed services programs. they are misguided; and bu rden a l re a d y Supporters said the strained human I think we need to go • Subscribe to Session Weekly or Session reductions are merely services programs Daily: www.house.mn/hinfo/subscribesw. a continuation of through a deliberative that protect children asp#bymail current funding process to figure out how and vulnerable • Follow us on Twitter: levels into the next adults. Many called twitter.com/MNHouseInfo we can make this work.” • Like us on Facebook: biennium, and said — Rep. Jeff Hayden the bill “reckless,” www.facebook.com/MNHouseInfo DFL-Mpls they should not and said it had been • View our videos on YouTube: come as a surprise to rushed through the www.youtube.com/user/MNHouseInfo anyone. They argued committee process • For information on any of these services: this package of cuts would be the easiest that without input from the public. 651-296-2146 or 800-657-3550 lawmakers will vote on this session. “I think that these cuts are reckless; I think

16 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 At Issue: Bush Foundation

The goal: 25,000 new teachers Bush Foundation commits big bucks to revamp teacher training

By Kris Berggren campus, we have been given this opportunity hile the debate over education to do this and we are grabbing it and running with it.” reform has swirled around W alternative paths to teacher What is changing in teacher training licensure and last year’s stymied application The 14 institutions are working with K-12 districts whose superintendents, classroom for federal Race to the Top funds, a quiet teachers, principals and union members have movement has been brewing that could agreed to participate. significantly change how teachers are Ofstedal said St. Cloud State University is working with six school districts ranging from trained. St. Cloud, with many schools and 25 percent students of color, to tiny Holdingford, which has one school. They’ve formed a joint powers The Bush Foundation has committed In 2009, the foundation decided to focus agreement, and are working to schedule $40 million over 10 years to the Network on improving teacher quality as a means a common in-service day for training in for Excellence in Teaching. The grant is to close the achievement gap based on conjunction with the university. the foundation’s largest-ever investment strong evidence that teacher quality is the Another welcome byproduct is much better of resources in a single focus area, Susan most important in-school factor in student communication between St. Cloud State’s Heegaard, the foundation’s vice president achievement. education and arts and sciences faculty who for educational achievement, told the House Bush Foundation President Peter share responsibility for budding teachers’ Education Reform Committee Jan. 20. Hutchinson called the partnership a education, but who have traditionally The funds are helping 14 colleges and “breakthrough” that could “change the bickered about credits and course content. universities in Minnesota, North Dakota and trajectory of education, not only to make Rep. Linda Slocum (DFL-Richfield), an South Dakota redesign teacher preparation sure everybody does well, but that those eighth-grade history teacher, welcomes a programs and recruit top talent into the who are doing the least well get caught better melding of content and pedagogy. She profession. The goal is to produce 25,000 up.” He said a key is has recommended that highly effective teachers to replace those who that the 14 institutions some student teachers will retire during the next decade. will guarantee their The Bush Foundation has committed she’s supervised The case for prioritizing quality teaching graduates’ effectiveness $40 million over 10 years to the take more history is bolstered by wide variances in education in the classroom. Network for Excellence in Teaching. coursework so they outcomes in the state. Though Minnesota Exactly how they’ll can be more effective students score highest in the nation on ACT make good on that The grant is the foundation’s largest- in the classroom. college entrance exams, many need remedial guarantee is still in ever investment of resources in a R e d e s i g n i s courses once they get there, according to a the works, said Kathy single focus area. underway at Twin Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Ofstedal, co-director Cities Teacher report released Jan. 18. It revealed that of St. Cloud State Collaborative member 40 percent of the state’s 2008 high school University’s Teacher Preparation Initiative. institutions: Augsburg College; Bethel graduates who enrolled in a two- or four-year “We have the data showing why we have University; Concordia University, St. college needed at least one remedial class. to change,” she said, and although getting Paul; Hamline University; St. Catherine “That represents 13,000 kids in Minnesota groups of people together from six school University; and the University of St. Thomas. who are showing up to our colleges districts, two university departments and Linda Distad, a St. Catherine University unprepared,” said Minnesota Business the teachers union has been painstaking, it’s professor of education, said members have Partnership Executive Director Charlie been worth it. “Right now, in the midst of all agreed on “signature experiences” that each Weaver. this other stuff, reorganization, cuts to our will embed in its curriculum. They include

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 17 Licensure candidates will be evaluated on Minnesota’s Representatives content knowledge, ability in Washinton D.C. to work with various Senator Amy Klobuchar (DFL) types of learners, lesson 302 Hart Senate Office Building planning and classroom Washington, D.C. 20510 management. The results 202-224-3244 are not intended to isolate Fax: 202-228-2186 individuals performance Senator Al Franken (DFL) — at least not yet — but 320 Hart Senate Office Building will be aggregated and Washington, D.C. 20510 202-224-5641 funneled back to the teacher Fax: 202-224-0044 preparation program which will learn where graduates First District Tim Walz (DFL) are achieving desired results, 1722 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 and adjust their instruction 202-225-2472 accordingly. Fax: 202-225-3433 “We are hoping to do Second District John Kline (R) a couple different kinds 2439 Rayburn House Office Building of analysis,” said Misty Washington, D.C. 20515 Sato, Campbell Chair for 202-225-2271 Innovation in Teacher Fax: 202-225-2595 Development at the Third District Erik Paulsen (R) University of Minnesota. 127 Cannon House Office Building “First, of changes in Washington, D.C. 20515 professional culture and 202-225-2871 Fax: 202-225-6351 learning at the higher education level, and of Fourth District Betty McCollum (DFL) student learning in regard 1714 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 photo by tom olmscheid to Bush Foundation 202-225-6631 Misty Sato, left, Campbell Chair for Innovation in Teacher partnership. “ Fax: 202-225-1968 Development at the University of Minnesota, and Karen Balmer, executive director of the Board of Teaching, give the House Fifth District Keith Ellison (DFL) Education Reform Committee a teacher performance assessment Selling teaching to 1027 Longworth House Office Building overview Jan. 25. Washington, D.C. 20515 potential teachers 202-225-4755 a residency model for teacher candidates The foundation will launch a recruitment Fax: 202-225-4886 before they complete their traditional campaign to attract top talent to teaching, Sixth District Michele Bachmann (R) student teaching, and “co-teaching,” a by inviting “change makers” on campus to 103 Cannon House Office Building mentor-trainee model of sharing planning consider teaching, strengthening admission Washington, D.C. 20515 and instruction duties that’s been successful requirements to teacher preparation 202-225-2331 Fax: 202-225-6475 at St. Cloud State University. programs, and possibly offering tax credits, A cohort of pre-service teachers pursuing scholarships or loan forgiveness. Seventh District Collin Peterson (DFL) the same licensure, such as secondary ”I think it’s going to fit in well with 2211 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 chemistry or elementary special education, something that is going on naturally,” said Rep. Kurt Bills (R-Rosemount), who 202-225-2165 could work at the same K-12 site, along with Fax: 202-225-1593 mentor classroom teachers and a university estimates he’s taught 7,000 students during Eighth District Chip Cravaack (R) professor. The residency model will benefit his career as a high school economics teacher. “With this generation you do see some really 508 Cannon House Office Building the teacher candidate, the classroom teacher Washington, D.C. 20515 and the higher education professor, Distad high level students in pre-med, financial 202-225-6211 said. “Most important, we believe it has industries, engineering, doing the Teach for Fax: 202-225-0699 a direct impact on the children in the America route or just opting into teaching. classroom, making a much stronger learning Not for pay but for giving something back.” experience for them.” The marketing plan will also try to match Another key component of the programs’ graduates’ certification with K-12 district’s If you will be visiting the Capitol in the near future, redesign is a focus on value-added teacher needs. Minnesota graduates about three call the Capitol Historic Site Program assessments, such as the Teacher Performance times more elementary education majors at 651-296-2881 to schedule a tour. Assessment, which the Board of Teaching is than are needed, but has shortages in some already piloting in Minnesota. areas such as science and math disciplines.

18 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 People Leading by example An economic wonk, Bills wants to use his background to create solutions

By Mike Cook drive,” he said. “There’s door-knocking and then Circling the walls inside the office of Rep. there’s sitting in parent-teacher conferences DISTRICT 37B Kurt Bills (R-Rosemount) are posters made every trimester for 14 years. It’s getting to know by his students that show the history of people and treating them respectfully. There Population (2009 est.): 45,621 economic thought. are no monikers in the classroom. I understand Largest City: Apple Valley Those students, there are parents who are liberal, and there are County: Dakota whom Bills still sees parents who are conservative, and there are Top Concerns: Living within our means, each school day, are parents that don’t care and there are parents job creation a big reason why the who are wildly independent, but all of their high school economics children are going to be educated the same teacher is now a House way in the benchmarks that are found in our Bring Econ101 to the Capitol.” member. educational standards.” “It’s not a political ideology. It’s we have Rep. Kurt Bills “I want to show Bills, a one-time head wrestling to deal with scarcity, so how are we going to them the importance coach, teaches an Advanced Placement move forward, and so that we don’t burn it of getting involved,” he said. macroeconomics class at Rosemount High up in the long run,” he said. “I’m not a big The affable Bills comes to his representative School beginning at 7:30 a.m. each morning anti-debt guy.” role with two years of experience on the before switching to his role as a legislator. The father of four children ages 4-13, Bills Rosemount City Council, a position he He teaches an Advanced Placement also brings the perspective of a small-business sought in 2008. He won a 26-person contest microeconomics class in the fall. owner. He and his wife, Cindy, operate a for an open seat, spending just $500 on his Appropriately for a man who can home daycare. “I fix everything they break,” campaign and having no yard signs. discuss the pros and cons of many famous he says laughing. “Someday I will invent a “Teaching is almost like a name-recognition economists, his campaign slogan was “Let’s better door handle.”

A third call to duty DISTRICT 34A Leidiger says his obligation is ‘to right-size government’ Population (2009 est.): 48,703 Largest City: Waconia Counties: Carver, Scott By Lee Ann Schutz a direct hit on the Navy offices. “These Top Concerns: Limit size of government, An American flag propped up in a coffee were my classmates,” he said. After some health and human services cost cup promoting the Tea Party Patriots is soul-searching, he founded the nonprofit prominently displayed atop the file cabinet in Operation Homefront to help meet the needs the office of Rep. Ernie of military dependents. Leidiger (R-Mayer). Leidiger moved with his wife to Minnesota former Rep. Paul Kohls said he would not It’s a reminder, he in 2005 to be closer to extended family. With seek re-election, Leidiger decided to “throw said, that the growth in several past business ventures under his belt, his hat in the ring.” government spending he was ready for a new one with his brother His view of “out-of-control government is unsustainable. “I’m — an office furniture business. But there’s spending” includes bonding for capital here to do a duty – to one business idea that would be a fulfillment projects, which he thinks is not selective right-size government,” of a dream — opening a brewery. enough. “Take for example the University Rep. Ernie Leidiger he said. To beer buffs, the Leidiger name is (of Minnesota) wants to own a dairy farm to He actually terms familiar. For three generations, his family do further research. What is the state getting his foray into politics his “third call to duty.” owned and operated Leidiger Brewing Co. involved for?” Retired in 1994 from the U.S. Navy after 25 in Merrill, Wis. His father was a brewmaster He is a member of the House Jobs and years of service, his obvious “first call” was to as was his grandfather, who also served in the Economic Development Finance, House serve his country. Wisconsin State Senate. Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy While living in San Diego, his “second Leidiger also got serious about politics and Finance, House State Government call” came after the Sept. 11 attacks when after moving to Minnesota and became Finance and House Transportation Policy the plane taking aim at the Pentagon made involved with the Republican Party. When and Finance committees. January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 19 People Second run’s a charm Focused on government’s role, Lohmer hopes to make ‘significant change’

By Patty Ostberg roads and bridges, security and police. “In Rep. Kathy Lohmer (R-Lake Elmo) has been Minnesota, our constitution says education,” DISTRICT 56A interested in local politics for years, attending she said. While home-schooling her four Republican precinct caucuses and serving as sons, Lohmer questioned what government’s Population (2009 est.): 44,380 a delegate. But it was proper role should be. Largest City: Woodbury in 2008 while her son Too often government oversteps its bounds County: Washington was serving a 15-month in cases like the smoking ban and business Top Concern: The state as a whole tour in Iraq, that she regulations, she said. “Every time you turn realized she was willing around there’s a new law (restricting people’s to sacrifice too. “I was freedoms). I don’t like smoking; I don’t Serving on the House Health and Human thinking about him and smoke, but I don’t think it’s the government’s Services Finance and Reform committees, his friends and young job to tell people who should.” State Government Finance Committee and Rep. Kathy Lohmer people who serve in the Lohmer’s district includes 10 communities. Veterans Services Division, Lohmer hopes military and what they The issues vary, but include the development to help make “some significant changes” are willing to do. … What am I willing to do?” of the empty State Farm building in for people. “We have $32 billion to spend She was unsuccessful in her House bid that Woodbury; building a new St. Croix River for approximately 5 million people; that year; she ran again and her persistence paid off. crossing between Stillwater and Wisconsin; should be enough money, we should be able Lohmer believes government’s role should water and landfill issues in Lake Elmo; and to prioritize and spend wisely,” she added. consist of basics such as national defense, fly ash storage in Lakeland.

Start early and stay late For Murray, new role offers much to learn and many challenges

By Lee Ann Schutz so much to learn, and I’m having a great When Rep. Rich Murray (R-Albert time. I haven’t been this excited about DISTRICT 27A Lea) goes home and opens the garage door, something in a long time — other than my what he sees are car seats, strollers and a granddaughters,” he said. Population (2009 est.): 34,972 pink Corvette — child- People encouraged him for a number of years Largest City: Albert Lea sized. to run for office, but it never seemed like the Counties: Freeborn, Mower The grandfather right time. But now that he’s in the Legislature, Top Concerns: Jobs, a balanced budget, of 10 — all girls — he thinks he’s a good fit for the job. fairness for Greater Minnesota says his family is the He’s been a financial advisor for 25 years, “highlight” of his life, working with small- businesses and farmers. and that he and his wife His concerns are the same as theirs — grow resources is also an issue. The schools and are fortunate to have jobs and balance the budget, he said. nursing homes are not as well-funded as those Rep. Rich Murray their children living “Those are probably the two biggest in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, he said. so close and spending things I hear from constituents,” he said. “It’s huge. We have a lot of things that we time at their home. However, he doesn’t Although the farming economy is doing need to take care of too.” regret running for office and his new role well, he said the jobs in many of the local The vice chairman of the House as a legislator. He doesn’t take his election industries are low-paying and there is a lot of Government Operations and Elections for granted. His district tends to lean DFL. unemployment. With the area’s population Committee, Murray also serves on the House But this Republican’s 57-vote margin over base shrinking, he believes better and more Jobs and Economic Development Finance, DFL incumbent Robin Brown held up in a jobs would help revitalize the communities. House State Government Finance, and recount. Murray said “bringing fairness to Greater House Transportation Policy and Finance “I start early, and I stay late. There is Minnesota” in the distribution of state committees.

20 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 People Taking part in another endeavor Quam’s varied background will help him make the hard decisions

By Mike Cook Quam grew up on a farm and has many Rep. Duane Quam (R-Byron) is a person relatives, including his father, who still live DISTRICT 29A who has to be involved. off the land. His professional background For example, he’s served on the Byron is in physics and engineering, and that has Population (2009 est.): 42,313 School Board; chaired allowed him to better understand high-tech Largest City: Rochester the governing board of businesses that want to expand in our state. Counties: Dodge, Olmsted the Zumbro Education His wife, Pat, is a first responder and he’s Top Concern: Getting the job done and District that helps gotten to know many doctors over the years making the hard decisions seven smaller school — getting honest feedback about some issues. districts work together A tenet of his campaign was innovative to deliver special vision. “I have no problem coming up with education needs; he’s He cites an example where he had a project creative ways within the framework and Rep. Duane Quam chaired the Minnesota that needed to get completed, but company guidelines set to find a solution,” he said. State Academics bureaucracy and lack of capital caused a delay His committee assignments are perfect Science Standards writing committee; served in acquiring the needed tools to complete the for someone who likes to be involved. on a committee of the Olmsted County task. Quam serves on the House Education United Way; was active with Cub Scouts; “I found a place where I could rent the Finance Committee; House Environment, and he’s coached youth sports. diagnostic test equipment,” he said. “That Energy and Natural Resources Policy and “Right now is a dire time and people need allowed me to maintain a schedule even Finance; House Government Operations to step up and do what they can to make a though a roadblock was thrown ahead.” and Elections and House Health and difference and improve things, fix things,” he To Quam, it’s always been about finding a Human Services Reform committees. said. “I feel I have a good skill-set to try and way to get the job done. help make things better.”

A Minnesota marketer DISTRICT 42A Stensrud believes state needs to do a better job of selling itself Population (2009 est.): 39,455 Largest City: Minnetonka County: Hennepin By Kris Berggren let’s get more value for our tax dollars,” he said. Top Concern: Strong business climate It isn’t surprising a person in sales would Since 2002, Stensrud has owned a have a lot of phone numbers stored in franchise of Fish Window Cleaning, which his cell phone. Yet, even before being employs about 15 people. He said the their first one about six years ago, where he elected to the House, economy has been tough on his customers, discovered the truth to the old saying that Rep. Kirk Stensrud such as restaurants, retailers and storefront decisions get made by those who show up. (R-Eden Prairie) had businesses, as their customers hold back Stensrud’s House committee assignments the governor and on dining out or making purchases. This — Commerce and Regulatory Reform, Jobs his state senator and creates a domino effect on their ability to and Economic Development Finance and representative on speed pay for his company’s services. He added that State Government Finance — are a good dial. “zero percent” of his business last year was match with his personal interests. He wants A former health construction-related, compared with about the Legislature to address permitting policies Rep. Kirk Stensrud care product sales 10 percent before. and lower taxes to make Minnesota more representative, He hasn’t always been involved in politics. marketable — so the state can more readily Stensrud called them frequently to weigh in Like many other Minnesotans, he’s been “sell” businesses on staying or growing here. on issues such as voter photo identification “minding my own business, paying my Stensrud has two sons attending college in and government spending and taxation, mortgage, saving for my kids’ college tuition.” Grand Rapids, Mich., and a daughter in 10th especially as they affect the business climate. Not quite knowing what actually went on at grade at Minnetonka High School. His wife, “Let’s control the spending of our money and a political caucus, he and a neighbor attended Wendy, is a school nurse in Minnetonka.

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 21 BILL INTRODUCTIONS JANUARY 24 - 27, 2011 House files 175 - 260

Monday, January 24 HF185-Schomacker (R) HF194-Anderson, S. (R) HF205-Petersen, B. (R) Environment, Energy & Natural Capital Investment Environment, Energy & Natural HF175-Fabian (R) Resources Policy & Finance State agencies required to track and Resources Policy & Finance Public Safety & Crime Prevention Environmental violation monetary report on the number of jobs created Coon Rapids Dam; invasive fish barrier Policy & Finance penalty deposit required to be redirected or retained as a result of capital project renovation funding provided. U.S. Border Patrol encouraged to retain to General Fund. funding. its office in Minnesota and locate its new HF206-Dittrich (DFL) facility in Hallock. HF186-Urdahl (R) HF195-Scalze (DFL) Education Reform Veterans Services Division Taxes Permanent School Fund Advisory HF176-Buesgens (R) Driver’s license expiration period ex- Spending tax increments deadline Committee membership modified. Government Operations & Elections tended while person is serving in active extended. Contract expiration governing provi- military service. HF207-Dittrich (DFL) sions changed. HF196-Liebling (DFL) Education Finance HF187-Dettmer (R) Jobs & Economic Development Mineral management cost payment HF177-Nelson (DFL) Veterans Services Division Finance prohibited from permanent school trust Higher Education Policy & Finance Legislative temporary successors Rochester; Mayo Civic Center Com- fund land proceeds. North Hennepin Community College provided for members called into active plex funding provided for design and funding provided. military service. construction improvements. HF208-Dittrich (DFL) Education Finance HF178-Downey (R) HF188-Hackbarth (R) HF197-Hackbarth (R) Public school’s fiber optic infrastructure State Government Finance Health & Human Services Reform Environment, Energy & Natural grant funding provided; grant program Lead By Example Act; legislator and con- Smoking prohibition exemption pro- Resources Policy & Finance established. stitutional officer salaries reduced and vided. Nonresident off-road vehicle state trail legislator per diem payments reduced. pass required. HF209-Fritz (DFL) HF189-Ward (DFL) Environment, Energy & Natural HF179-Banaian (R) Environment, Energy & Natural HF198-Quam (R) Resources Policy & Finance Higher Education Policy & Finance Resources Policy & Finance Environment, Energy & Natural Subsurface sewage treatment system Integrated Science and Engineering Cuyuna Lakes State Trail funding Resources Policy & Finance replacement and upgrade requirements Laboratory Facility at St. Cloud State provided. Olmsted County; conveyance of certain modified. University funding provided. surplus state land authorized. HF190-Holberg (R) HF210-Kiffmeyer (R) HF180-Peppin (R) Health & Human Services Reform HF199-Gottwalt (R) Government Operations & Elections Public Safety & Crime Prevention Hanna’s Law enacted by modifying Health & Human Services Reform Voter picture identification required Policy & Finance cardiopulmonary resuscitation require- Freedom of Choice in Health Care Act; before receiving a ballot, identification Offenses committed near county lines ments for child care center staff. freedom of choice in health care for cards provided at no charge, provisional permitted to be charged in either the every resident of Minnesota declared ballot procedures established, election county of the offense or the home county HF191-Downey (R) and statement of public policy provided. administration procedures specified, of the arresting law enforcement agency. Government Operations & Elections electronic polling place required and Redundant Technology Elimination HF200-Gottwalt (R) recount procedures enacted. HF181-Scott (R) Act proposed, state agency information Health & Human Services Reform Taxes technology systems and services Alzheimer’s disease data collection and HF211-Wardlow (R) General Fund contributions check off consolidated, Office of Enterprise reporting required. Civil Law provided for individual income and Technology duties transferred and Unlawful or deceptive trade practice property tax refund. money appropriated. HF201-Scott (R) actions modified, and class action court Health & Human Services Reform order appeals permitted. HF182-Beard (R) HF192-Downey (R) Abortion funding limited for state- Environment, Energy & Natural Government Operations & Elections sponsored health programs. HF211-Wardlow (R) Resources Policy & Finance Reinventing Government Employment Civil Law State and local water management study Act proposed, public employee HF202-Runbeck (R) Unlawful or deceptive trade practice required. compensation freeze provided Taxes actions modified, and class action court and future compensation method Acceleration of single sales apportion- order appeals permitted. HF183-Kieffer (R) determined, state workforce reduction ment adopted. Education Reform required, state employee gainsharing HF212-Beard (R) Teacher candidates required to pass basic system established, state contract HF203-Westrom (R) Government Operations & Elections skills exam. restrictions removed and right to work Civil Law Public employee definition modified. constitutional amendment proposed. Legislative approval required for HF184-Schomacker (R) certain rules to take effect. HF213-Brynaert (DFL) Jobs & Economic Development HF193-Anderson, S. (R) Taxes Finance Government Operations & Elections HF204-Norton (DFL) Public safety radio equipment exemption Congress memorialized to appropriate Balanced budget required prior to pas- Health & Human Services Reform expanded. money for the Lewis & Clark Regional sage of other legislation. Autism spectrum disorder coverage Water System. required.

22 Session Weekly January 28, 2011 Wednesday, January 26 HF226-Davids (R) Thursday, January 27 HF249-Rukavina (DFL) Veterans Services Division Jobs & Economic Development HF214-Howes (R) Fillmore County specified as one HF238-Franson (R) Finance Taxes location for a new veterans cemetery. Health & Human Services Reform State funds used for state-funded Public safety radio equipment Electronic benefit transfer card projects required to use state- or exemption expanded. HF227-Carlson (DFL) restrictions and requirements American-made goods. Government Operations & Elections established, and MFIP residency HF215-Rukavina (DFL) Balanced budget required for an requirement amended. HF250-Anderson, B. (R) Government Operations & Elections additional biennium. Civil Law Virginia Fire Department Relief Asso- HF239-Murphy, E. (DFL) Claims against the state provisions ciation; relief association administrative HF228-Carlson (DFL) Health & Human Services Finance changed and updated. consolidation authorized. Education Reform Clearwater County; ICF/MR facility Seatbelt requirements amended for daily rate increased. HF251-Lillie (DFL) HF216-Benson, J. (DFL) procurement of school buses. Veterans Services Division Education Finance HF240-Dettmer (R) Congress of the United States Referendum allowance limit HF229-Downey (R) Veterans Services Division memorialized to appoint an independent eliminated. Judiciary Policy & Finance Disabled veterans homestead market counsel to investigate the Prisoner of Judges authorized to prohibit juvenile value exemption eligibility extended War-Missing in Action issue. HF217-Benson, J. (DFL) sex offenders from residing near their for surviving spouses, and qualified Education Finance victims. disabled veterans’ approved primary HF252-Lillie (DFL) Equity revenue formula modified. family caregivers included. Health & Human Services Reform HF230-McFarlane (R) A Chance to Grow, Inc. established HF218-Benson, J. (DFL) Education Finance HF241-Persell (DFL) as an outcome-based personal care Education Finance Alternative teacher pay calculation mod- Taxes assistance pilot project, requirements Location equity index created, general ified for intermediate school districts. Public safety radio equipment established, report required and money education revenue formula modified exemption expanded. appropriated. and revenue increased for some school HF231-Rukavina (DFL) districts. Jobs & Economic Development HF242-Persell (DFL) HF253-Ward (DFL) Finance Environment, Energy & Natural Taxes HF219-Benson, J. (DFL) Unemployment insurance eligibility Resources Policy & Finance June accelerated tax payment repealed. Education Reform modified for children of business owners. Cass Lake; spearing allowed. School district mandates reduced, HF254-Doepke (R) additional flexibility allowed and fund HF232-Kriesel (R) HF243-Anderson, S. (R) Education Finance transfers authorized. Veterans Services Division Higher Education Policy & Finance Independent School District No. 284, Gold Star license plates eligibility Optional student fees increase vote Wayzata, permitted to participate in the HF220-Hancock (R) expanded to surviving legal guardians required. alternative facilities revenue program. Environment, Energy & Natural and siblings. Resources Policy & Finance HF244-Davids (R) HF255-Anderson, S. (R) Renewable energy standard obligation HF233-Sanders (R) Judiciary Policy & Finance Agriculture & Rural Development calculation definition modified. Health & Human Services Reform Costs and attorney fee payment provided Policy & Finance Department of Human Services required in certain tax court actions. Raw milk sales permitted by farmers. HF221-Hosch (DFL) to issue a request for proposals for a Transportation Policy & Finance Medicaid fraud detection and business HF245-Davids (R) HF256-Sanders (R) Paynesville Airport; bypass project intelligence contract. Legacy Funding Division Transportation Policy & Finance funds provided. Regional arts capital fund created and Motor carrier transportation contracts HF234-Davids (R) funding provided. regulated and indemnification provi- HF222-Gottwalt (R) Taxes sions prohibited. Commerce & Regulatory Reform Rochester; local sales tax revenues HF246-Hackbarth (R) Health plans guaranteed issue in the allowed uses modified. State Government Finance HF257-Bills (R) individual market required; Minnesota Oliver H. Kelley Farm Historical Site Education Finance Comprehensive Health Association HF235-Holberg (R) funding provided. Early graduation achievement reinsurance of ceded risk on certain Health & Human Services Reform scholarship program created and money health plans required and additional Hannah’s Law enacted by modifying HF247-Davids (R) appropriated. enrollment ended. cardiopulmonary resuscitation Taxes requirements for child care center staff. Income tax form voluntary state HF258-Davids (R) HF223-Scalze (DFL) contributions provided. Taxes Veterans Services Division HF236-Anzelc (DFL) Licensed ambulance services authorized Public assistance reporting information Health & Human Services Reform HF248-Loeffler (DFL) to submit claims directly to the state. system use expanded. Licensed well contractor exemption Health & Human Services Reform provided. Small Group Health Insurance Market HF259-Peppin (R) HF224-Kelly (R) Working Group recommendation Environment, Energy & Natural Transportation Policy & Finance HF237-Marquart (DFL) enacted by repealing a requirement that Resources Policy & Finance Port development assistance program Government Operations & Elections small employers that do not offer group Mississippi River management plan funding provided. Persons 17 years old authorized to vote health coverage either offer, or file a form modified. in a primary election. with the state stating a decision not to HF225-Hackbarth (R) offer, a Section 125 plan through which HF260-Peppin (R) Environment, Energy & Natural employees may contribute wages to a Commerce & Regulatory Reform Resources Policy & Finance pre-tax account from which to pay for Gasoline sales regulated below cost. Northern pike experimental and special individual health insurance. management waters limited.

January 28, 2011 Session Weekly 23 Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services 175 State Office Building 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155-1298

Speaker of the House: Kurt Zellers Majority Leader: Matt Dean Minority Leader: Paul Thissen

Session Weekly

Director MINNESOTA INDEX Barry LaGrave Editor/Assistant Director Philanthropy and giving Lee Ann Schutz 2008 charitable giving in Minnesota, in billions...... $5.4 Assistant Editor 2008 charitable gifts by individuals, in billions...... $4.02 Mike Cook As percentage of charitable contributions made; decrease from 2007...... 74; 7.7 Art & Production Coordinator National decrease in same time period...... 13.7 Paul Battaglia Amount donated online by Minnesotans on Give to the Max Day (Nov. 16, 2010), in millions...... $10.04 Writers Kris Berggren, Nick Busse, Susan Hegarty, Number of Give to the Max donors...... 42,596 Patty Ostberg Estimated cost to raise $1 online...... $.07 Through grant writing...... $.20 Chief Photographer To acquire new donors through direct mail...... $1.25 Tom Olmscheid Number of corporate, foundation and community grant makers Photographers in Minnesota in 2008...... 1,467 Kristin Schue, Andrew VonBank Grants/program related investments paid in 2008, in billions...... $1.42 As percentage of total charitable contributions made; increase from 2007...... 12; 3.6 Staff Assistants National increase in same time period, as percentage...... 12.3 Christy Novak, Angella Hanson Minnesota foundations’ assets in 2008, in billions...... $17.30 • To have Session Weekly mailed to you, Billions of 2007 assets...... $19.55 subscribe online at www.house.mn/ Percent decline in assets from 2007 to 2008...... 11.5 hinfo/subscribesw.asp or call Percent of grants awarded to human services programs and operations...... 26 651-296-2146, 800-657-3550. Percent awarded to education programs and operations...... 25 Number of times since 1976 education not ranked first...... 3 • Session Weekly Online is available at www.house.mn/sessionweekly. McKnight Foundation 2009 rank among private foundations in grants paid...... 1 Millions in grants paid...... $108.94 • If you enjoy Session Weekly, please Millions in grants paid in Minnesota...... $73.04 consider helping to defray production Billions in McKnight Foundation assets in 2009...... $1.89 and mailing costs with a voluntary Target Foundation & Corporation, 2009 rank among corporate foundations, grants paid...... 1 donation for the 2011 session. Millions of grants paid in 2009...... $133.94 Millions of grants in Minnesota...... $26.16 Make your check payable to Minnesota Millions in Target Foundation assets in 2009...... $28.32 House of Representatives, and mail it to: Where the Margaret A. Cargill Foundation ranked among private foundations House Public Information Services 175 State Office Building for 2009 assets...... 1 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 2008 rank ...... not ranked St. Paul, MN 55155-1298 Foundation assets in billions...... $19.08 — K. Berggren For general information, call House Public Information Services at 651-296-2146 or Sources: Minnesota Council on Foundations, “Giving in Minnesota” 2010; GiveMN.org. 800-657-3550.