A NONPARTISAN PUBLICATION APRIL 13, 2001 ESSION VOLUME 18, NUMBER 15 Weekly SMINNESOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES • PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

In this issue:

BIODIESEL DEBATE

OBSOLETE LAWS, TOBACCO ENDOWMENT, AND MORE HF2420-HF2453 ESSION S Weekly Session Weekly is a nonpartisan publication of the Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Office. During the 2001-2002 Legislative Session, each issue reports daily House action between Thursdays of each week, lists bill introductions and upcoming committee meeting schedules, and provides other information. The publication is a service of the Minnesota House. No fee. CONTENTS To subscribe, contact: Minnesota House of Representatives HIGHLIGHTS Public Information Office 175 State Office Building Agriculture • 5 Game & Fish • 12 Local Government • 17 St. Paul, MN 55155-1298 Children • 5 Government • 13 Metro Affairs • 17 (651) 296-2146 or 1-800-657-3550 Crime • 6 Higher Education • 13 Recreation • 17 TTY (651) 296-9896 Development • 8 Housing • 14 Safety • 18 Education • 9 Human Services • 14 Taxes • 18 Director Employment • 10 Immigration • 15 Transportation • 19 LeClair G. Lambert Energy • 10 Industry • 15 Environment • 11 Law • 16 Editor/Assistant Director Michelle Kibiger

Assistant Editor Mike Cook FEATURES Art & Production Coordinator At Issue: Education — A plan to increase student attendance and reduce Paul Battaglia truancy is being considered by the House K-12 Education Committee. • 21 Writers David Maeda, Theresa Stahl, At Issue: Government — Legislators have proposed a number of bills that Jonas M. Walker, Mary Kay Watson would repeal obsolete laws and rules, ranging from the regulation of track- less trolleys to itinerant carnivals. • 22 Chief Photographer Tom Olmscheid At Issue: Health — Several bills proposing long-term goals for mental Photographers health care in the state are being heard in a House committee • 24 Andrew Von Bank, Sara Kirk At Issue: Higher Education — Lawmakers are mulling a plan that would Office Manager Nicole Wood dedicate tobacco endowment funds to the University of Minnesota’s Aca- demic Health Center. • 25 Staff Assistants Christy Novak, Michelle Sorvari

Session Weekly (ISSN 1049-8176) is published weekly during the legislative session by the Min- DEPARTMENTS/RESOURCES nesota House of Representatives Public Information Office, 100 Constitution Ave., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298. Periodicals postage paid It’s A Fact: Minnesota nice 4 Committee Schedule (April 16-20) 28 at St. Paul, MN, and at additional mailing offices. Governor’s Desk (CH13-23) 26 Reflections: Natural disasters 31 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bill Introductions (HF2420-HF2453) 27 Minnesota Index: Teens and tobacco 32 Session Weekly, Public Information Office, Minnesota House of Representatives, 175 State Office Building, 100 Constitution Ave., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298.

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2 April 13, 2001 IRST READING F

the production facilities are farmer-owned. The committee adopted a second amend- Fueling the debate ment requiring the Department of Agriculture Proponents of biodiesel fuel plan call it good for the to study the “feasibility and desirability” of providing tax credits benefiting biodiesel environment, while opponents say it is bad public policy producers. Westrom told the committee that HF362 is BY JONAS M. WALKER “all about three E’s: environment, economics, ollowing one of the most visible public lobbying campaigns of the and energy.” The middle factor determines stakeholders’ perceptions of the other two. legislative session and the indefatigable efforts of its sponsor, a bill to The debate surrounding the environmen- Frequire the inclusion of biological material in diesel fuels has earned tal benefits of biodiesel takes place in the con- the approval of four House committees. text of new federal rules requiring diesel fuel HF362, sponsored by Rep. Torrey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake), would to reduce its sulfur component by 95 percent by 2000. The National Biodiesel Board wrote, require the sale of so-called “biodiesel” fuels in Minnesota, a mandate pro- “Sulfur emissions are essentially eliminated ponents say would spur the development of “home-grown,” ecologically- with pure biodiesel.” friendly fuels and bolster the state’s sagging rural economy. Opponents, Opponents, however, argue that fuel com- panies will make the necessary improvements including the trucking and airline industries, in fuel at the refinery level. say biodiesels are insufficiently tested and de- John Hausladen of the Minnesota Truck- cry the measure as “good farm politics but bad ing Association said any additive intended to public policy.” reduce sulfur emissions would be “a redun- Biodiesel fuel is just like regular diesel fuel, dant product.” but it includes a biodegradable, combustible A National Biodiesel Board study concluded liquid fuel derived from organic oils for use that biodiesel fuels yield significantly less soot in internal combustion engines. According to and carbon monoxide, both of which are regu- the National Biodiesel Board, a nonprofit in- lated pollutants. Additionally, biodiesels con- dustry association, soybeans provide tribute 93 percent fewer hydrocarbons, which 90 percent of the biological component of contribute to smog. biodiesel fuels. Other sources include recycled However, the same study also found that oils from restaurants and even animal fats, al- biodiesel fuels can produce more nitrogen though those are less commonly used. oxides (NOx), a compound that Runge says is The House Transportation Policy Commit- a “major contributor” to nitrous ground-level tee amended and approved the bill April 10 ozone emission. after one of the longest debates the measure A report issued by University of Minnesota has yet seen. It will now go to the House Trans- Professor C. Ford Runge concluded that “the portation Finance Committee. Twin Cities area has the potential to exceed In its original form, HF362 would require EPA standards for ozone” and that “any in- that all diesel fuel sold in Minnesota after crease in NOx emissions is a potential source July 1, 2002 contain at least 2 percent biodiesel; of environmental costs of compliance.” that would increase to 5 percent by 2006. Proponents counter that “biodiesel’s lack of In response to concern that Minnesota sulfur allows the use of nitrogen oxide con- would isolate itself by becoming the first state PHOTO BY ANDREW VON BANK trol technologies that cannot be used with Bill Frank of Lawrence Transportation testifies be- to adopt such a move, the committee amended fore the House Transportation Policy Committee conventional diesel. Biodiesel nitrogen oxide the bill to stagger the implementation until April 10 in opposition to HF362, a bill that would emissions can be effectively managed and ef- significant production facilities exist in the specify minimum biodiesel fuel content. ficiently eliminated as a concern of the fuel’s state. In the new language, the 2 percent re- use.” quirement would take effect no sooner than material in the same period of time after Min- Westrom’s second “E,” economics, proved 180 days after the commissioner of agricul- nesota producers could generate a quantity among the most contentious. Hoping for a fi- ture announces that Minnesota producers can equal to 2.5 percent the amount of diesel fuel nancial windfall, farmers seek to create a new generate at least one-half the amount needed. sold the previous year. By that second date, market for a bountiful product. Truckers and The amended bill also stipulates all diesel though, the commissioner may only count other industries see themselves as being forced would have to be at least 5 percent biological biological material toward that minimum if to pay for a lopsided mandate benefiting some

Session Weekly 3 farmers at the expense of all other economic sectors. The biodiesel debate is often compared to the ethanol controversy of the mid-1980s. Ethanol is a corn byproduct that reduces pol- lutants when added to gasoline. Building on its green record and wishing to nurture a fledg- Minnesota nice ling market, Minnesota began financially sub- A look at tourism in the 1940’s sidizing ethanol production in the state in Though times have changed, one thing is 1948 was between 12 and 13 days. The fisher- 1987, an incentive that the United States also for sure in Minnesota: vacationers still come man tended to spend more time in Minnesota began providing. to the state mainly for its fishing as they did than the non-fisherman, the report stated. Ten years later, Minnesota became the first 50 years ago. Ninety percent traveled by automobile, while state to require that all gasoline sold within But the scenery, atmosphere, and the state’s others traveled by train, bus, or private airplane. its borders contain ethanol. It remains the only people have also lured both in-state and out- About 60 percent of vacationers occupied state to have done so. of-state enthusiasts. “housekeeping cabins” during their stay, while The Runge report concludes that Minnesota Steps to Better Vacations in Minnesota: A sur- most of the rest lodged in resorts, and a small soybean farmers stand to earn $7.5 million per vey of Minnesota’s vacation industry, which was percentage in “overnight cabins” or hotels. Just year were the state to adopt the biodiesel man- compiled in 1948, was the first comprehensive 2 percent camped in a tent. date, while the added yearly costs to diesel fuel examination of tourism in Minnesota. “Better than three out of every four va- users add up to $16 million at 2 percent and The Department of Business Research and cationists in Minnesota purchased a fish- $48 million at 5 percent. Development surveyed vacationers during the ing license during the 1948 season,” the Hausladen estimated that biodiesels would months of June through September with the report states. The survey concluded that cost truckers about 4 cents per gallon, a figure intent of learning the number of vacationers fishing is the most popular form of recre- that, magnified over hundreds of gallons con- in Minnesota during ation and is “en- the summer season, sumed, and in the context of already slim op- joyed extensively by where they come erating budget, could amount to one-third to both Minnesota from, how much they residents and our one-half of a trucker’s funds. spend on their vaca- non-resident This constitutes a financial “risk that no in- tion, and what they dustry should be forced to take,” said Bill thought about their visitors.” Frank, speaking on behalf of the Lawrence Minnesota vacation. The survey rated Transportation Company. He characterized The department es- fishing as 46 percent the proposed requirement as “a statewide re- timated nearly 860,000 of “what vacationists search project paid for by (diesel) users.” out-of-state residents liked most about Frank and others raised technical concerns and nearly 800,000 Minnesota.” Thirty- about the reliability of biodiesel fuels. Minnesotans spent A 1940’s era postcard promoting vacations in the three percent chose “scenery”; 26 percent Westrom told the committee biodiesel fuels their vacations at one Gull Lake area of Minnesota. Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Historical Society reported “climate and have proven safe and reliable after being “tested or more Minnesota re- weather”; 15 percent in many, many engines for many, many miles.” sorts during the summer of 1948. Illinois and Iowa vacationers comprised almost one-half of for “fellowship and friendliness”; and Proponents characterize biodiesel fuels as 6 percent said for “peace and quiet.” functional at all temperatures and character- Minnesota out-of-state visitors, while Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas combined sent another Vacationers rated their dislikes as ize the infrastructure upgrades necessary to 20 percent for poor fishing (the publication physically combine diesel and biological ma- 25 percent. Summer vacations were generally family notes there are probably as many definitions terial as negligible. Opponents disagree, argu- affairs, with both resident and non-resident of poor fishing as there are fishermen); ing that biological additives contribute to vacation parties averaging 3.5 people. But the 11 percent for mosquitoes; 7 percent for “hav- diesel’s propensity to gel at low temperatures true cash-generating activities came from ing to go home”; and another 7 percent for and warning that equipment improvements non-residents of the state, who spent an aver- poor cabins and lack of facilities. could prove devastatingly costly to diesel age of $274.15 per trip compared residents Interestingly, the report makes reference to retailers. who spent $159.29. something the state is known for today as “Min- Finally, Westrom argued that adopting Forty-two cents of every vacation dollar nesota nice.” It noted that residents and non- biodiesel could serve American strategic in- were spent on resorts; 13 cents on food; 10 residents listed primarily the same “likes” about terests by reducing reliance on Middle East- cents on transportation; 10 cents on retail their vacations, with one exception. “The latter ern oil. Even this, though, attracted criticism stores; and 8 cents on sports and recreation. group (non-residents) placed much more em- from the bill’s opponents, a number of whom The survey wanted to know who could afford phasis on fishing, on fellowship, and friendli- ness than did Minnesotans. The friendly attitude said that most diesel fuel refined in the United vacations and what their incomes were. Re- … apparently is a very desirable characteristic States is drawn from South American, South- sponses for the survey were kept anonymous. to the visitor. east Asian, and Alaskan wells. The highest percentages of those surveyed earned the following annual incomes: “It might be advisable, therefore, that we 34 percent earned between $2,000 to $3,500; make a conscious effort to cultivate our hos- If you have Internet access, visit the 23 percent earned between $3,500 to $5,000; and pitable atmosphere so that ‘Minnesota Smiles’ Legislature’s web page at: 19 percent $5,000 to $7,500. The highest income might become the national ideal.” http://www.leg.state.mn.us bracket category was listed as “over $25,000.” (T. STAHL) The average length of vacation stay during

4 April 13, 2001 IGHLIGHTS A PRIL 5 - 11, 2001 H

Fair value from becoming maple syrup producers. AGRICULTURE Calling it a “sticky bill” but one with a “won- The committee took no action on the bill, but it will be considered for possible inclu- Milk board approved derful flavor,” Rep. Roxann Daggett (R-Frazee) presented a bill to the House Taxes Commit- sion in the omnibus tax bill. A plan to create a milk price control board tee Property Tax Division April 9 that would has received its first recommendation to pass add maple syrup to the state’s definition of ag- from a House committee. ricultural products. HF1238, sponsored by Rep. Mary Ellen Daggett said HF2397 literally adds just two CHILDREN Otremba (DFL-Long Prairie), would create a words, “maple syrup” to the statutes. By being five-member board appointed by the gover- Homework helpers included in the definition, maple syrup pro- nor to levy fees on milk producers and dis- ducers would benefit from the tax rates ap- The House Family and Early Childhood tributors. The bill is intended to assist dairy plied to agricultural property. Education Finance Committee has been farmers by bolstering milk prices, which have In current law property that is classified as spending a great deal of time making sure chil- been declining for many years. agricultural must be used for the “raising or dren have constructive activities after school. The House Civil Law Committee unani- cultivation of agricultural products.” Those They have considered several bills that would mously approved the bill April 6 and referred products include livestock, dairy animals, fund after-school enrichment programs. it to the House Governmental Operations and dairy products, poultry and poultry products, On April 9, they heard a proposal for a pi- Veterans Affairs Policy Committee. The House fur-bearing animals, certain horticultural and lot program that would pair St. Cloud State Agriculture Policy Committee approved the nursery stock, fruit, vegetables, forage, grains, University students with at-risk children in a bill Feb. 26, but declined to recommend its bees, and apiary products. nearby neighborhood. passage out of concern that other committees Agricultural land by definition must be 10 “This is the most stressed neighborhood in could perceive the bill as too extreme. acres or more of contiguous acreage. the state outside the Twin Cities,” said Rep. Joe The committee’s approval came after hours Under current law for agricultural property, Opatz (DFL-St. Cloud), sponsor of HF206. “It of testimony and significant amendment to similar to residential homestead property, the happens to be the neighborhood I grew up in, prevent the bill from being challenged on con- market value on the house and garage and the and it’s a very different place than when I grew stitutional grounds. Both opponents and sup- immediately surrounding one acre of land has up in the ‘60s and ‘70s.” porters were concerned that the bill’s original a class rate of 1 percent on the first $76,000 of The bill would appropriate $100,000 for a form could have violated the U.S. market value. The rate is 1.65 percent on prop- grant to the St. Cloud Southside Boys and Girls Constitution’s commerce clause, which gives erty greater than the $76,000 threshold. Club for an after-school computer skills pro- Congress exclusive purview to regulate inter- The value of the remaining land including gram for youth from low-income families. state trade. improvements up to $115,000 has a class rate HF206 will be considered for inclusion in the “I have done everything I can to make this of .35 percent of market value. The value of committee’s omnibus bill. constitutional,” Otremba said. property between $115,000 and $600,000 has The funds would pay for an education and Specifically, the committee removed a pro- a rate of 0.8 percent and the rate increases to career development coordinator for two years. vision that would have required Minnesota 1.2 percent on property greater than $600,000. The program, to take place after school, would milk distributors to purchase milk from Min- Jerry Jacobson, a maple syrup producer in serve about 100-150 children and provide in- nesota producers “whenever possible.” An- Otter Tail and Becker counties, said he con- ternship opportunities for college students other amendment cut a section that would tacted the Department of Agriculture to de- who would teach the children computer and have allowed the board to bring civil action termine whether his land could be classified homework skills. against any party that failed to comply with as agricultural. He was told that because it “The partnership with St. Cloud State Uni- “an order or rule of the board.” wasn’t included in the definition, the land did versity is integral to the success of the project,” Wy Spano, a lobbyist for the Dairies Fed- not qualify. said Mark Sakry, executive director of the Boys eration of Minnesota, opposed the bill “in sor- “We are as dependent on trees as farmers and Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota. row.” He described the measure as the “fourth are on their fields,” Jacobson said. The new club opened in January after a suc- permutation of legislation” intended to assist John Hagen from the Department of Rev- cessful fundraising effort that netted struggling dairy farmers. He warned its adop- enue said the department is concerned there $4.7 million. Contributors included the city tion could have the unintended consequence is no quantifying mechanism in the bill that of St. Cloud and many individuals, founda- of decreasing milk sales in Minnesota, espe- establishes how much syrup has to be pro- tions, and corporations. cially since the amended bill could not pre- duced to qualify. “About five years ago I noticed a build-up vent producers from seeking less expensive Rep. Tom Rukavina (DFL-Virginia) said he of children in the neighborhood who had no milk produced in Wisconsin or Iowa. shared the concern because under the bill pro- place to go after school,” said Larry Haws, St. ducers of any dollar amount could qualify. Cloud city park director. “Now volunteers are Jacobson said the costs of the equipment saying this is the best group of children they’ve and process that ensure a safe and healthy ever worked with.” product would discourage hobby farmers

Session Weekly 5 assumptions in the fiscal notes because of in- designed” for the making of a fraudulent iden- CRIME consistencies in some of the averages used. tification cards. For example, different agencies did not Current law provides for imprisonment of Examining felony DWI costs agree on the increase in trials a felony penalty not more than one year and up to a $3,000 The House Judiciary Finance Committee would create. In addition, officials said given fine. The committee amended the bill’s origi- spent the majority of its April 10 and 11 hear- the serious nature of a felony and the rights nal felony penalty of not more than five years ings discussing the fiscal note for a bill that lost, defendants will be more likely to contest and/or a fine of up to $10,000. First time of- would institute a felony-level drunken driv- the gross misdemeanor drunken driving cases, fenders will face only the current penalty. Any ing penalty. as well as the felony penalties. future offenses would be a felony, carrying up The bill (HF351), sponsored by Rep. Rich “As you have enhanced penalties,” said Maj. to a four-year prison term and $10,000 fine. Stanek (R-Maple Grove), would make a Mike Asleson of the State Patrol, “when you “I don’t want to advocate kids making ID’s person’s fourth drunken driving conviction have the possibility of prison time versus jail for their buddies,” commented Rep. Michael within 10 years a felony. The committee will time, there’s simply going to be some addi- Paymar (DFL-St. Paul). “But I don’t think a consider the measure for inclusion in its om- tional work.” kid making a mistake should be charged with nibus bill. Both the State Patrol and the Bureau of a felony.” Stanek said he planned to spend a substan- Criminal Apprehension stated in the fiscal The bill does not affect the penalty for us- tial amount of time scrutinizing the fiscal note note they anticipate more court time for of- ing a fraudulent identification card, up to so the committee could include a fair amount ficers and scientists with the felony penalty. 90 days in jail and up to a $1,000 fine. of funding for the plan, while still meeting Local costs also reflected high overtime for In another provision, the bill makes illegal other obligations under its spending target. officers to appear in court. the possession of “any device, gear, or instru- Fiscal staff from the House and various state Stanek and other committee members ques- ment designed to assist in shoplifting or de- agencies testified to the difficult nature of pin- tioned the assumptions department officials feating electronic surveillance systems.” Such ning down drunken driving costs. They said used and in some cases asked them to return systems are commonly used in retail stores there are so many variables and different as- with different numbers. selling items such as compact discs or cloth- sumptions, it’s hard to settle on one standard. Several officials agreed if some assumptions ing. Offenders could be punished by up to According to the fiscal note, the bill would were changed, the costs would likely decrease. three years in prison and a fine of $5,000. increase budgets for state criminal justice The committee will continue discussing the agencies by $5 million in the first year and be- potential fiscal impact and determine a rec- tween $10 million and $11 million in subse- ommendation to include in the bill with the quent years. Impact on local government committee’s omnibus spending package. agencies would be about $632,000 in the first Alcohol monitoring “I do think this is good legislation,” said Rep. year, $1.4 million in the second year and nearly Legislators are moving forward with a plan Sheldon Johnson (DFL-St. Paul). “I don’t $2 million in the third year. to study the effectiveness of remote alcohol think this legislation is going to have a deter- However, Stanek questioned many of the monitoring in reducing recidivism among re- rent effect on the chronic alcoholic. It’s just peat drunken driving offenders. the nature of the disease, and these people Rep. Mary Jo McGuire (DFL-Falcon need to be taken off the streets. This bill effec- Heights) sponsors SF773, which the House tively does that, and I appreciate it.” Crime Prevention Committee approved April 5. The bill now moves to the House floor. University of Minnesota Law School Pro- fessor Steve Simon, a member of the state- Forging identification cards mandated DWI Working Group, told the Legislators have approved a plan to stiffen committee that most drunken driving offend- penalties regarding the for-profit manufacture ers repeatedly drink and drive. “Because of fraudulent driver’s licenses and identifica- chemical dependency is involved, the simple tion cards. threat of punishment is ineffective.” Sponsored by Rep. Peggy Leppik (R-Golden Simon endorsed the proposed study, draw- Valley), HF2122 would create felony-level pen- ing attention to the bill’s demand that a group alties for multiple offenses against laws pro- not assigned home breathalyzers be included hibiting making false identification cards. as a control group. “The state would like ac- The House Crime Prevention Committee curate data” he said. approved the bill April 10. It goes now to the The bill calls for the commissioner of cor- House Judiciary Finance Committee. rections to report the results of the study “to Leppik said the manufacture of false iden- the chairs and members of the Senate and tification cards “is a huge problem for alcohol House committees and divisions having juris- and tobacco retailers. These producers are get- diction over impaired driving policy and fund- ting more and more sophisticated, and it’s ing” by Feb. 15, 2002. becoming increasingly difficult to trust Courts can order offenders to use remote identifications.” alcohol monitoring systems at home. The sys- Kevin Kajer from the State Public Defender’s Of- Reflecting the technological sophistication tems use a computer, phone, and camera to fice testifies before the House Judiciary Finance of contemporary forgers, the bill specifically measure blood-alcohol concentration, and Committee April 10 on HF351, a bill relating to criminalizes the use of digital cameras, com- then communicate that information to a felony DWI penalties. puter software, and paper “adapted and

6 April 13, 2001 Concealed weapon permit measure passes House

The House passed a contentious bill would merely increase the number of guns April 9 regarding the state guidelines for in Minnesota communities and would not issuing and receiving concealed weapons necessarily make citizens safer. permits. The vote was 85-46. Discussion also surrounded the effective- HF1360, sponsored by Rep. Lynda ness of background checks, particularly Boudreau (R-Faribault), would require when thousands of records, called “sus- sheriffs in Minnesota to issue a permit to pense files,” are currently unable to be anyone who meets various criteria con- matched by the state Bureau of Criminal tained in the bill. Currently, police chiefs Apprehension and therefore do not show and sheriffs have the discretion to grant or up on background checks. deny permits. “Almost 50,000 of these are felonies,” said Requirements to obtain a permit include Rep. Jean Wagenius (DFL-Mpls). “So if being at least 21 years old, completing fire- some sheriff does a background check, even arms safety training from a certified instruc- if there’s a conviction ... there are 50,000 tor, passing a criminal background check, and felonies that aren’t even tappable by the applicants must not be mentally ill, chemi- sheriff.” cally dependent, or known criminal gang Nevertheless, proponents said without members. the bill, there’s no guarantee of annual The bill would also create a statewide reg- background checks and there’s nothing istry of permit holders, who would be re- providing that the state have a central quired to undergo a background check registry of permit holders. PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID annually. It would further enhance penal- Rep. Wes Skoglund holds a cutout of a semi- “A vote against this bill is a vote against ties for carrying a gun without a permit and automatic weapon as he speaks against the a bill that creates centralized data system for felonies committed by permit holders bill that would allow Minnesotans to more so that our police officers know who’s car- using a pistol. easily obtain a permit to carry a concealed rying and who doesn’t,” said Rep. John The fee for a new permit would be $45 weapon. The House voted 85-46 April 9 to Tuma (R-Northfield), “so they can do the approve the measure. under the bill. A permit would be good for background checks and so they can find the three years and renewals would cost $15. trolled substance, or otherwise being influ- bad guys that are carrying permits. So we The bill was amended several times on enced by a hazardous substance. know who they are, so they can track them.” the floor to answer concerns expressed by To violate that provision could The Senate version of the bill, sponsored members of the House Ways and Means ultimately result in permanent revocation by Sen. Pat Pariseau (R-Farmington) was Committee April 2. Amendments ad- of a permit. defeated in that body’s Crime Prevention dressed specific requirements for who is Another amendment, offered by Rep. Jim committee April 6. Though it’s not impos- allowed to provide certified training and Abeler (R-Anoka), would require anyone sible for the bill to become law, the action would allow sheriffs to contract with po- carrying a concealed weapon at a school with does severely hamper that reality. lice departments to process permit a permit to notify the school’s principal, but “We are spending hours and hours of our requests. would not require the principal’s permission time debating a bill that will not become Permit holders would not be allowed to to do so. It was approved. law,” said Rep. Matt Entenza (DFL-St. Paul). carry their weapon under the influence. An Boudreau and other supporters of the “And what we are succeeding in doing is amendment, offered by Rep. Rich Stanek measure said the bill is about protecting making the public just that much more (R-Maple Grove) and adopted by the people’s rights to defend themselves and cynical. With the defeat in the Senate Crime House, defines “under the influence” as their families. Boudreau called it a “basic Prevention committee, it is absolutely clear having a blood-alcohol concentration of civil right.” that the bill will not advance.” 0.04 or higher, having consumed a con- Opponents emphasized their belief that it (M. KIBIGER)

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Session Weekly 7 central facility that can alert parole officers if honest about their lives. She could relate to a violator has violated a court order. them, she said. DEVELOPMENT Simon said home breathalyzer units gener- Williams testified April 5 before the House Entrepreneur program funding ally cost about $10 to $12 per day, an expense Judiciary Finance Committee in favor of a bill An entrepreneur program designed to as- often borne by offenders themselves. If they that would keep the Camp Ripley camp open sist low-income, inner-city neighborhoods are unable to pay, the court can provide money for at least two more years. Gov. Jesse Ventura through training, lending, and support might for the devices. did not recommend funding for the program receive funding, under a bill sponsored by Rep. in his 2002-03 budget. Michael Paymar (DFL-St. Paul). “The people on this program are my fam- HF182 would allocate $96,500 to the Neigh- ily,” Williams said. “They were there for me Preventing gang violence borhood Development Center, Inc. in St. Paul when my regular family were not.” specifically for “entrepreneur training pro- A bill that would appropriate $750,000 dur- The bill (HF2151), sponsored by Rep. Debra grams, development and operation of a ing the 2002-03 biennium for a gang interven- Hilstrom (DFL-Brooklyn Center), would ap- Somali marketplace and business assistance to tion pilot project in Minneapolis and St. Paul propriate $1.25 million during the biennium Somali entrepreneurs, American Indian will be considered for inclusion in the omni- for the program. It would also establish a goal classes, staffing for the emerging businesses bus bill for the House Judiciary Finance for the camp of serving 500 youths per year. and emerging neighborhoods program, and Committee. The committee will consider the bill for alumni training programs.” The bill (HF2227), sponsored by Rep. possible inclusion in its omnibus bill. The bill was heard April 9 in the House Jobs Gregory Gray (DFL-Mpls), was heard by the Lori Roberson, a mother whose 11-year-old and Economic Development Finance Com- committee April 5. son with Attention Deficit Disorder attended mittee, and will be considered for inclusion Several representatives from the Boys and the camp two years ago, testified the program in the committee’s omnibus bill. Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities testified that made a remarkable difference in her son and Since 1993, the center has taught their programs of gang intervention, includ- has contributed to better grades in school. entreprenuership in four ethnic communities ing tattoo removal, are working. “At 11, he was headed in a direction where — Hmong, Latino, Somali, and American In- “They go where the kids are,” said Wendell his teachers didn’t want to deal with him,” dian — and 12 low-income neighborhoods. Butler, board member of the clubs. “They go Roberson said. “I didn’t want to deal with The center’s training program alumni have in the housing projects. They go into (Ameri- him.” started more than 280 businesses and created can) Indian land. They go into military Roberson’s son has improved attention, is 1,200 jobs, according to Mara O’Neill, chief installations.” succeeding in his public school classes after operating officer. Though Gray said the bill is a “pilot project,” struggling in private school, and says positive Tsong Sawh Lo, president of Hmong Diver- the intent of the bill is to give successful pro- things about his Camp Ripley experience, she sified Industries, Inc., testified to the commit- grams some financial support so they can testified. grow and spread to other areas, much like the tee in support of the center. Lo started his philosophy behind pilot projects. Enrique Estrada who works with the Boys and Girls Clubs, said he took what he learned WOMENVENTURE TOUTED there and tries to help keep kids out of gangs today. “I grew up in Boys and Girls Clubs,” Estrada testified. “I have older brothers who were in gangs and went to prison. ... Because of the Boys and Girls Clubs, I did not get involved in gangs.” Rep. Mary Murphy (DFL-Hermantown) asked Gray whether permanent state funding is necessary for projects like this one to continue when they receive private funding as well. Butler said about 26 percent of the program funding is from government sources. “Government certainly has an interest in providing for an alternative to gangs, if only for it’s own self interest,” Gray said. “I don’t anticipate that problem is going to go away. Private funding is good, but in times of eco- nomic downturn, like we’re experiencing now, those funds tend to dry up.”

PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID Tene Heidelberg, president of WomenVenture, holds 3-month-old Rosalie McGough-Pose April Saving Camp Ripley program 11 as her mother, Maureen, tells the House Jobs and Economic Development Finance Com- Thirteen-year-old Jasmyn Williams recalled mittee about her business, Noble Birth, that was helped by a grant from WomenVenture. the “rap sessions” at the Camp Ripley week- end camp for at-risk youth as the most mean- ingful to her because the children there were

8 April 13, 2001 company in 1999 after completing the entre- improvements, and risks. Compiled data Teacher mentoring program preneur program. would be available to the public on a “user- A comprehensive plan designed to trans- Located in the Frogtown Neighborhood in friendly” Web site, he said. form teacher compensation and help retain St. Paul, Hmong Diversified Industries, Inc. is HF71 allocates an initial $2.5 million in teachers was introduced to the House K-12 a light manufacturing business that provides 2001, though officials suggest it might take Education Finance Committee April 6. distribution services to organizations and more than one year to be effective. HF71 states Committee Chair Alice Seagren (R- manufacturing companies. Lo’s company cur- the contractor would submit a written report Bloomington), sponsor of HF2353, said the rently has 14 employees directly from the of its findings to the commissioner of the intent of the bill is “to try to recruit teachers neighborhood it serves. Department of Children, Families and Learn- and retain them.” The bill would give school Besides creating jobs, businesses such as Lo’s ing within one year of the contract signing. districts the option to create “accountability return thousands of dollars back to the com- Cox said the cost is comparable with Michi- and educational improvement plans” for dis- munity. Graduates of the center are most likely gan and Pennsylvania, who have approxi- tricts, school sites, teachers, and students. to open stores in vacant storefronts, thereby mately the same number of school districts as If school districts so choose, Seagren’s bill improving the general image in neighbor- Minnesota. provides incentives for those that would re- hoods, O’Neill said. Entrepreneurs have also Rep. Barb Goodwin (DFL-Columbia structure teacher compensation systems “for become role models in their communities by Heights) questioned the need for spending teachers to continuously improve their knowl- helping to educate others, providing needed money on another consultant. She said the edge and skills,” the bill reads. services and goods, and by stabilizing the department already plans to spend In order to be approved for a new pay sys- community’s financial base. $25 million on consultants in the tem, districts must add an extra 10 days of staff A loan from the state would contribute to 2002-03 biennium. development activities. The additional time new work the center wishes to achieve. The “There is a lot of oversight of school ex- would be dedicated to a new teacher induc- center receives the majority of its support from penses already,” Goodwin said, citing finan- tion and mentoring program, which partici- foundations and corporations. The center cial managers, regular audits, and state pants would be compensated for, providing all charges for services depending on the income legislative auditors. She said the evaluation in conditions are met. level of the emerging entrepreneur. O’Neill the bill would add another layer, but wouldn’t Probationary teachers would receive $2,000 said most pay $50; the full fee is $550. take anything away. in compensation, and mentoring teachers But Pawlenty said it is not easy for a citizen would receive $500. One-third of the overall or policy maker to access information on funds would go to districts in Greater Minne- schools. “There is no one place where you can sota, one-third to the metropolitan area, and EDUCATION quickly and coherently” receive impartial data, the remaining one-third would be available for he said. “What we have now is not effective.” either area. Analyzing returns The bill was a collaborative project among Amid every report, survey, and assessment several education groups in the state. WEAR’N THE PLAID of Minnesota’s schools, there is not one that Jan Alswager, a lobbyist for Education Min- objectively and comprehensively evaluates the nesota, said her organization supports financial and academic performance of Seagren’s bill, but isn’t sure if there will be suf- schools, said House Majority Leader Tim ficient dollars to support it. Alswager also Pawlenty (R-Eagan). In other words, one that pointed out if large school districts such as calculates the return on the investment of Minneapolis or St. Paul were to use the pro- education. gram there wouldn’t be enough money. She Pawlenty is sponsoring a bill (HF71) that added the $500 teacher mentor compensation would hire an outside consultant to analyze could be increased. Minnesota’s schools for the benefit of taxpay- Julie Kalnin, assistant professor of education ers, educators, school board members, and at the University of Minnesota, emphasized to state and local officials. the committee the importance of mentoring. “There’s often a disconnect between policy “Mentoring programs are designed to make makers and education leaders,” Pawlenty told sure teachers are more productive in the class- the House K-12 Education Finance Commit- room,” she said. “There must be active engage- tee April 11. The bill will be considered for ment from learning (to) teaching.” the committee’s omnibus finance measure. Rep. John Dorn (DFL-Mankato) asked what A specific consultant to perform the evalu- has been recognized as to why so many new ation is not named in the bill. However, Will- teachers leave the profession. Kalnin said sup- iam Cox, managing director at Standard and port for new teachers causes them to stay or Poor’s, an internationally recognized financial PHOTO BY SARA KIRK leave, noting that many feel isolated. “Salary analysis company, gave a presentation of S&P’s Tad Myers from the Twin Cities Pipe Band, left, and broader working conditions” also influ- School Evaluation Services. Two other states, plays his bagpipe along with 10 other per- ence the decision, she said. Michigan and Pennsylvania, have contracted formers April 7 prior to a parade leading to In programs where universities work with the State Capitol in remembrance of Tartan with the company for the services. mentoring programs, the “attrition rate is sin- Cox claimed findings of the report would Day. Tartan Day is a Scottish holiday celebrat- ing the Declaration of Arbroath, signed in cerely reduced,” she said. “These mentoring not be a ranking or a rating, but instead a 1320, that provides freedom from English programs do have an effect.” management tool to determine financial and rule for Scotland. The bill will be considered for inclusion in academic strengths, weaknesses, the committee’s omnibus bill.

Session Weekly 9 Charter school oversight Sen. Ann H. Rest (DFL-New Hope) spon- The House Governmental Operations and KIDCLUB sored the bill in the Senate, where it received Veterans Affairs Policy Committee approved a 64-0 vote March 5. a bill April 10 without recommendation that HF456/SF647*/R2 would establish a state board for charter schools. The bill now goes to the House K-12 Edu- cation Finance Committee. EMPLOYMENT HF1265, sponsored by Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Roseville), would expand the list of ac- HIV/AIDS workplace education countability factors for charter schools and Rep. Karen Clark (DFL-Mpls) is requesting establish a board that would perform the a $300,000 one-time grant to help educate and state’s role in sponsoring charter schools. The increase HIV/AIDS awareness in small board would also administer state and federal businesses. start-up aid. Clark, sponsor of HF846, said the last grant The governor, with the Senate’s advice and awarded for HIV/AIDS business education 10 consent, would appoint the seven-member years ago went to major corporations. Her bill board. Members would serve staggered six- would be focused on helping small businesses year terms. “to provide education and awareness and to Greiling said the bill would be considered improve capacities to manage HIV in the for inclusion in the omnibus education fi- workplace,” the bill states. nance bill along with another that would es- Under the bill, a community-based organi- tablish a state board of education. She said if zation would use at least one-half of the allo- the decision was made to establish a board of cation for education and legal and technical education, that board could also oversee char- assistance for employers and their employees. ter schools and thus HF1265 would not be Bob Tracy, director of community affairs needed. and education at the Minnesota AIDS Project, Greiling said she is offering the bill because PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID spoke to the House Jobs and Economic De- she believes greater oversight is needed for Phyllis O’Brien from Kid Key Club testifies for velopment Finance Committee April 9. He charter schools. a bill that would expand the dependent care said a national study found about one-half of “There’s been a lot in the news about char- credit on individual income taxes from 12- people surveyed thought they could contract ter schools having problems, and it’s the con- year-olds to 14-year-olds to cover more chil- HIV from a sneeze, cough, or touch from a tention of this bill that if there was some dren in after school programs like hers. Her person with the virus. testimony came during an April 9 hearing of prevention ahead of time and more focus on the House Taxes Committee Sales and (HIV is the virus that can develop into the responsible sponsoring as well as help along Income Tax Division. disease AIDS.) the way, which this board could provide, then “When people don’t have the facts they still some of those problems could be headed off,” act on what they don’t know,” he said. Greiling said. Ventura signs request Tracy sees lots of discrimination, partly be- cause of a lack of information, he said. HF846 Jessie Montano, an assistant commissioner A resolution urging Congress to fulfill its would provide businesses with resources to of the Department of Children, Families and promise to fund 40 percent of the cost of spe- give help before they get into trouble, he said. Learning, said the administration opposes the cial education was signed by Gov. Jesse “This is to reduce the risk and cost to Min- bill because it would create a new level of Ventura April 6. nesota employers,” Tracy said. bureaucracy. As a result, the resolution will now officially Rep. Bob Gunther (R-Fairmont) asked if Montano said when charter schools first be sent to both the U.S. House of Representa- employment agencies could do HIV/AIDS started in Minnesota, the idea was for the state tives and Senate. education for businesses. Tracy said compa- to “step aside” and let the schools move along Rep. Andrew Westerberg (R-Blaine), spon- nies need more than just a handout, they need and learn from their mistakes. But she said that sor of the bill in the House, said the lack of peer-to-peer interaction, an expense that with the recent problems the department has funding is “hurting our education system” and would be covered by the bill’s allocation. taken a more proactive approach. explained that Minnesota has to subsidize The bill will be considered for inclusion in There is one staff member for every 10 education funds to afford special education the committee’s omnibus bill. schools and extensive training is provided be- expenses. fore the school is open, Montano said. Federal allocations for special education Rep. Tony Kielkucki (R-Lester Prairie) said funding have averaged 13 percent annually for he thought the department should be focused the past few years. ENERGY on providing services and not on regulating The resolution reads: “Over 25 years ago, the activities. federal government required states to provide From waste to watts “When you meld things together you cre- children with disabilities an appropriate edu- Anaerobic digester systems — transform- ate problems,” Kielkucki said. cation, and for 25 years, the government has ing manure into renewable energy — might failed to meet its promise to pay 40 percent of qualify for an incentive program that would the cost.” pay 1.5 cents per kilowatt hour, under a House The House passed the resolution with a bill. 123-1 vote April 2.

10 April 13, 2001 Besides producing energy, such systems pro- The bill, sponsored by Rep. Tom Osthoff “Despite the ban on lead shot in 1991, we vide several environmental benefits, includ- (DFL-St. Paul), would allow for a bond sale see as much lead poisoning in eagles now as ing odor control, pathogen reduction, weed and appropriation of $8 million as a grant to before the ban,” said Patrick Redig, executive seed destruction, and greenhouse gas the city of St. Paul for the acquisition and de- director of the center, which has been treat- reduction. velopment of approximately 58 acres, includ- ing and studying bald eagles and other rap- Rep. Bob Gunther (R-Fairmont), sponsor ing the Trout Brook/Trillium site and the tors for 27 years. of HF1741, presented the bill to the House Lower Phalen Creek Greenway. HF785, sponsored by Rep. Kathy Tingelstad Jobs and Economic Development Finance “We believe we can open this up and make (R-Andover), would appropriate $270,000 for Committee April 6. It will be considered for it an area the whole state can be proud of,” the 2002-03 biennium for the proposed study. inclusion in the committee’s omnibus bill. Osthoff said. The bill will be considered for inclusion in the HF1741 would provide reimbursement to The site forms a natural buffer of open space committee’s omnibus finance bill. facilities that begin generating electricity af- between neighborhoods and industry, The Raptor Center study would consist of ter July 1, 2001. Qualified facilities would re- bounded by Maryland Avenue, the Burlington trapping 75 bald eagles and taking blood ceive funds through 2015. Hydroelectric and Northern Railroad tracks, Interstate 35E, and samples, which would be analyzed for lead wind energy conversion facilities are currently Cayuga, Agate, and Jackson streets. residue. Twelve of the birds, six with high lead eligible for the incentive payment. The concept plan shows a greenway corri- levels and six without, would be outfitted with The bill would cost $80,000 in the 2002- dor that will include the restoration of wood- satellite tracking units. The birds would be 2003 biennium. The Department of Finance lands, prairies, and a brook; the creation of tracked to determine where they are feeding estimates funds for the program would gradu- wetlands; a series of small pools and water- so the sources of contamination might be pin- ally climb to $361,200 by 2016. The Depart- falls; an interpretive trail; and an interpretive pointed. ment of Commerce, which would manage the center. It will form a connecting link to 130 The goal of the study would be to determine program, assumes that two 150 kilowatt sys- miles of trails, according to Schmidt. the incidence, the potential sources, and the tems will be installed each year during the 15- “It’s a visionary plan,” said Rep. Margaret impact of lead exposure in the bald eagle year period for the subsidy, and each system Anderson Kelliher (DFL-Mpls). population in Minnesota. will be subsidized for 10 years. Osthoff gave much of the credit to St. Paul Information gained from the study would Estimates are based on the Haubenschild Mayor Norm Coleman, who “kept us all be shared with the Department of Natural Dairy Farm in Princeton — the only opera- together on this.” Resources and other government agencies to tional anaerobic manure digestion facility in facilitate management of the eagle population the state. Haubenschild is a 1,000-acre, family and help ensure the species’ long-term owned and operated farm that processes ma- survival. nure from more than 400 cows, and plans to Lead poisoning in eagles “The continued presence of lead in the eco- expand to 900 cows by this summer. A young bald eagle paid a visit to the House system is an ongoing threat to wild bald eagles According to the Minnesota Project, which Environment and Natural Resources Finance in Minnesota,” said Mark Martell, coordina- compiled a report on the performance of the Committee April 11. The eagle was a member tor of conservation programs for the center. Haubenschild Farms, before the digester was of a delegation from the University of “When we know where it’s coming from, built, Haubenschild entered into a contract Minnesota’s Raptor Center, which is seeking hopefully we can do something about it.” with a local electric cooperative. Now, “enough state funding for a study of lead poisoning in electricity is being produced to provide all the the birds. electric needs on-farm, plus enough surplus electricity to power about 45 average homes.” The report cautions future anaerobic di- gester systems that cooperation and financial support from agencies is essential for success. However, it notes payback of five years or less on the investment is possible.

ENVIRONMENT St. Paul greenway More than five years in the planning, the Trout Brook Greenway in St. Paul is coming together. “This is truly an impressive partnership of neighbors, corporations, and government at all levels,” said Susan Schmidt of the Trust for Public Lands. A bill that would provide funding for the Gladdie, a 5-year-old bald eagle, is perched on the hand of Nell Henry as Mark Martell and Pat Redig of project was approved April 6 by the House the University of Minnesota’s Raptor Center testify for an appropriation to do research on lead poison- Environment and Natural Resources Finance ing in bald eagles. Their testimony came April 11 before the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee. HF1225 will be considered for Finance Committee inclusion in the committee’s omnibus bill. Session Weekly 11 Fighting the flames Water warnings St. Paul) said, “There is another, perhaps un- “Minnesota’s being stripped of experienced Scientists and policymakers continue to counted, cost in the lives of children who may firefighters,” Dana Linscott, a firefighter from grapple with the effects of water contamina- be physiologically damaged by the chemical Side Lake, told the House Environment and tion on humans, nearly four decades after pollutants in our water.” Natural Resources Policy Committee April 5. Rachel Carson sounded the warning about the HF110 was approved and sent to the House Linscott was testifying in support of a bill risks of pesticides, insecticides and fertilizers. Environment and Natural Resources Finance (HF382), sponsored by Rep. Tom Rukavina Rep. Jean Wagenius (DFL-Mpls) is espe- Committee. (DFL-Virginia), that would require the De- cially concerned about the vulnerability of partment of Natural Resources to maintain a children and frail adults. She has drafted a bill sufficiently large trained force of firefighters (HF110) that would require the state Pollu- to handle the annual demands of Minnesota’s tion Control Agency to adopt water quality GAME & FISH fire season. standards that would “adequately protect fe- He said “smokechasers,” seasonal wildland tuses, children, and adults.” Turtle limits firefighters, have been treated by the DNR as “The current standard is a 160-pound The commercial fishing of turtles domi- emergency employees, which means they do not male,” Wagenius told the House Environment nated discussion regarding a comprehensive have the usual workplace rights and are not and Natural Resources Policy Committee game and fish bill in the House Environment qualified for unemployment compensation. April 10. “We have to look at the effects of and Natural Resources Policy Committee Trained smokechasers have been leaving environmental contaminants on children’s meeting April 5. Minnesota in recent years for more lucrative development.” HF1591, sponsored by Rep. Dennis Ozment offers with other states or the federal govern- The bill would require that the agency take (R-Rosemount), contains a number of provi- ment, Linscott said. As a result, Minnesota has into account the following risks in setting sions and clarifications to game and fish laws. had to train and rely on “green” recruits every water quality standards: adverse reproductive The bill was approved and sent to the House year. outcomes, respiratory disease, cancer, immu- Environment and Natural Resources Finance “Fire season is not an emergency,” Linscott nologic suppression, neurological develop- Committee, which sent it to the House floor said. “Fire season comes around every year like ment, endocrinal functioning, and infant and April 11. clockwork.” child development. Ozment’s bill would restrict the sale of turtle Linscott said the goal of the Minnesota “You wouldn’t think of giving a child the licenses to Minnesota residents, who would Wildland Firefighters Association is to provide same dose of medicine that you would give also be required to have a fishing license. Cur- the state with a committed, professional cadre an adult,” said David Wallinga, a physician and rently fewer than 100 licenses are sold annu- of firefighters who can respond quickly to both senior scientist at the Institute for Agriculture ally, many of which go to people who trap predictable and emergency wildfires. and Trade Policy in Minneapolis. turtles for their own use. None of the states The smokechasers can be on the job very “Children are not little adults,” Wallinga adjacent to Minnesota allow turtle trapping. quickly and are often relied on for emergen- said. “They have unique behaviors, physiol- The bill specifies the number and type of cies other than fires. In recent years they were ogy and development and for those reasons traps allowed, but sets no limit on the num- on the scene to deal with the tornado in they’re more vulnerable.” ber of turtles that can be taken. It would es- St. Peter, the Red River flood, and the search Fetuses, infants, and children experience tablish minimum sizes of 10 inches in width for Katie Poirier. “discrete windows of time” during which ex- for snapping turtles and five inches for painted The DNR has made some changes in re- posure to contaminants can cause serious turtles. sponse to requests from the firefighter’s asso- long-term problems, he said. “Unlimited harvest will insure that turtle ciation, creating 45 seasonal positions, but Existing guidelines rely on cancer or acute populations will continue to dwindle in Min- Linscott said that is not enough. poisoning as evidence of environmental con- nesota,” wrote Robert Hay, a herpetologist who Peggy Adelmann, budget director for the tamination. They do not take into account was consulted on the bill. “The lack of a limit DNR, attended the meeting to explain the neurological risks. poses a significant threat to turtle agency’s financial position on the bill, but was Wagenius said the guidelines are too nar- populations.” unable to answer policy questions. row. “This bill proposes that when you don’t Experts who testified at the meeting said “This is much more than a budget issue,” have all the information you need, you build there is no good data on the populations of Rukavina said. “It’s a policy issue. Why aren’t in a margin of safety,” she said. most turtle species in Minnesota. However, the the officials who run the firefighter program Speaking for the Pollution Control Agency, Department of Natural Resources does keep here? Marvin Hora, agreed that infants and children data on the number of turtles harvested com- “This is a fairness issue,” he said. “These were more affected by pollutants than adults. mercially, which over the past eight years have firefighters should be treated the same as any However, he objected to HF110 on two points: averaged about 3,500 snapping turtles and other working people.” “It sends us off on a search for information 32,000 painted turtles per year. The bill was approved and sent to the House that I believe does not exist; and you cannot Legislators voiced concern over the effects Commerce, Jobs, and Economic Development develop appropriate risk standards when of turtle trapping and offered amendments Committee. there’s no data on which to base them.” ranging from increasing the number of traps Rep. Margaret Anderson Kelliher (DFL- allowed to prohibiting all turtle trapping. Mpls) was “shocked” at Hora’s testimony and None of the amendments passed. To find out who represents you apparent lack of willingness to work with Testifiers at this and a previous meeting said at the Capitol . . . Wagenius. there are relatively few commercial trappers. Call the House Public Information Other lawmakers expressed dismay, as well. “These people’s entire livelihood and their Office at (651) 296-2146 Regarding Hora’s implication that costs would families’ welfare depend on this income,” said or 1-800-657-3550 run too high, Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL- Rex Campbell, a commercial turtle trapper

12 April 13, 2001 from Grey Eagle. “The people in this industry The committee officially entertained no from current or future investment by the state are too old to change their line of work and amendments or other matters associated with in academic programs or capital projects, it find good employment elsewhere in their the bill. cannot have a negative effect on the small communities.” university’s balance sheet or debt capacity, the Steve Hirsch, of the DNR Fisheries Division university will not be responsible for any capi- said, “It certainly wasn’t the intent of our leg- tal project costs, and the university will par- islation to put turtle trappers out of business.” HIGHER EDUCATION ticipate in the management and oversight of daily operations. Stadium discussion Committee Chair Rep. Peggy Leppik (R- Many can remember crisp fall days when Golden Valley) asked if the university is only GOVERNMENT the University of Minnesota Marching Band contributing land for the stadium, won’t it be would strut down University Avenue before tough to have management say. the Gopher football team battled a foe at Me- Richard Pfutzenreuter, CFO/Treasurer of Returning alcohol-related fees the university, said that is something the task A bill that would help local governments morial Stadium. Some would like to see a similar scenario force will need to address. “We don’t have the cover alcohol-related costs was given a hear- answers today.” ing, but might not have much life this session. re-created. HF2403, sponsored by Rep. Doug Fuller (R- HF2241, sponsored by Rep. Doug Stang (R- Bemidji), would dedicate a portion of the sales Cold Spring), may accomplish that. It was be- tax collected in each county on retail sales of fore the House Higher Education Finance Tech center request alcoholic beverages to an account for local Committee April 11 for an informational Wanting a place to teach lifelong learning governments to use the money for costs re- hearing. skills, leaders of two Minnesota schools are lated to alcohol abuse. The bill would create a 17-member task seeking legislative help. Fuller presented his bill before the House force to study proposals to construct a new Rep. Bud Nornes (R-Fergus Falls), sponsor Judiciary Finance Committee April 11. Com- sports facility on the university’s Twin Cities of HF2371, told the House Higher Education mittee Chair Rep. Rich Stanek (R-Maple campus or renovate the Metrodome to be used Finance Committee April 9 that his bill would Grove) said he thinks the bill needs more dis- as a joint college and professional football fa- appropriate $80,000 from the state’s general cussion and may be reconsidered at a later cility. If a new facility is approved, the stadium fund in fiscal year 2002 to the Minnesota State date. would be home to the Gophers and Minne- Colleges and Universities Board of Trustees for “It’s an idea as we’re talking about felony sota Vikings. a grant to Fergus Falls Community College DWI,” Fuller said. “This was an idea that I Members would look at programmatic, and the local school district. wanted to throw out there and toss around.” operational, and financial issues. Stang said The funds would be used to plan and imple- In its current form, the bill would take all private financing would pay for the study, and ment pilot programs in a combined vocational alcohol taxes and make them available to the a report would be requested by Oct. 31, 2001. training center of the college and school district. counties. Fuller said the statistics he has are University officials emphasized to the com- The two entities would operate the center. several years old, but he estimated the bill mittee that the stadium is not a priority for Monies would be spent between a facility would take about $110 million per year from them. use study, curriculum development, computer the general fund. “We want to make sure our needs and de- connections between the college and school The bill would allow counties to spend the sires are considered and we want to be part of district, and a pilot program to begin in the money on any costs related to alcohol abuse, the debate, not an afterthought,” said Eric fall. The bill specifies the appropriation would including chemical dependency treatment, law Kruse, vice president of University Services. be available until the end of the 2002-03 enforcement and public safety, corrections, “We are here because others asked us to be biennium. social services, and cities in the county. here. Academics is our top priority.” High school juniors would be the minimum Rep. John Tuma (R-Northfield), asked if Rep. Gene Pelowski Jr. (DFL-Winona) ques- age eligible to participate in the program. Ken cities could be included or if under the bill tioned that statement, saying the Board of Peeders, president of Fergus Falls Community they had to go to the county boards to ask for Regents has a position on the stadium issue College, said students could potentially be money. Fuller said they would, and Tuma sug- but not on a Commission on University of ready to go to work after high school or pur- gested amending the bill so counties and cit- Minnesota Excellence proposed by House sue an advanced degree at a MnSCU two- or ies could benefit directly. Majority Leader Tim Pawlenty (R-Eagan). He four-year institution. “There are some real Several members expressed interest in the further noted regents were present for the sta- opportunities for economic development,” he bill, but only if Fuller would be willing to dium discussion but not the commission dis- said. amend the bill to increase the tax rate on al- cussion two days prior. Bob Duncan, Fergus Falls school district cohol to compensate for the lost revenue from Board of Regents Chair Patricia Spence said superintendent, said: “We are looking to sal- the general fund. the board already had the stadium on its vage opportunities for students. This is a win- “If you don’t like to raise taxes on liquor, agenda for the last meeting and was not aware win for our high school and our graduates in then I don’t like your bill at all,” said Rep. Dave of the Pawlenty proposal until just before the this area.” Bishop (R-Rochester). hearing. She reiterated that the stadium is not “It’s innovative programs like this that keeps Fuller said he was not interested in raising a priority for the university. things going,” said Rep. Paul Marquart (DFL- sales taxes on alcohol, currently at a rate of University representatives also showed a list Dilworth). 9 percent, but merely wanted to introduce the of 10 principles given to the Vikings that were No action was taken on HF2371, but it will idea as a way to help local governments buffer conditions of its support. be considered for inclusion in the committee’s the costs of such measures as felony DWI. Among them are: the project cannot detract omnibus bill.

Session Weekly 13 University commission considered recommendations. Pawlenty responded that expressed concern that the bill would restrict Members of the House Higher Education in the bill it states “the task force is encour- some necessary local ordinances. She said that Finance Committee heard a bill April 9, in- aged to consider operation and capital financ- in Lakeville the city has certain requirements tended to aid the decision-making process at ing needs, Minnesota economic needs, federal dealing with tiling in foundations because of the University of Minnesota. research priorities, and opportunities for pri- water problems unique to the city. The bill (HF2377), sponsored by House vate financial support.” Abrams incorporated an amendment into Majority Leader Tim Pawlenty (R-Eagan), Raising a concern about more bureaucracy, the bill that would allow municipalities to would establish a Commission on University Rep. Gene Pelowski, Jr. (DFL-Winona) asked adopt ordinances differing from the state of Minnesota Excellence to examine and make why this bill is necessary now but wasn’t in building code to account for certain physical recommendations to the university. the past. conditions. The bill will be considered for inclusion in Pawlenty said some people might be happy the committee’s omnibus bill. with where the university is now, but for those “It’s often beneficial to have an outside that are not “this is worth a try. They can ben- group look in and offer compliments and criti- efit from a constructive nudge now and then.” HUMAN SERVICES cism,” Pawlenty said. “The university could benefit from a fresh look.” Truth in advertising The commission would be comprised of 15 Finding an appropriate assisted living facil- members with equal numbers appointed by HOUSING ity for a family member with Alzheimer’s dis- the governor, speaker of the House, and a Sen- ease is an arduous task on many levels. Making Uniformity for inspection fees ate committee. No current university regent a decision would be easier if you could clearly A bill that might bring more uniformity to may serve, and the university president, or a see how establishments compare. municipal inspection fees was approved by the designee, is an ex-officio, nonvoting member. With that and the protection of vulnerable House Local Government and Metropolitan All members would serve without people in mind, Rep. Mary Ellen Otremba Affairs Committee April 6. compensation. (DFL-Long Prairie) is sponsoring a bill that The bill now goes to the House floor. Pawlenty’s bill requires the commission to: would establish disclosure requirements for HF1310, sponsored by Rep. Ron Abrams (R- • Review the university’s national rankings; assisted living facilities with special care units Minnetonka), would restrict municipalities • Review major investment efforts in interdis- for people with Alzheimer’s disease or other from adopting ordinances or developing ciplinary initiatives identified by the dementias. agreements that differ from the state building university; “Basically, the bill says what you advertise, code. • Evaluate and recommend how the univer- you must do,” Otremba said. The bill also requires that municipal per- sity can develop five or more additional cen- HF918 was heard April 10 by the House mit and plan review fees be fair, reasonable ters of excellence programs that can achieve a Health and Human Services Policy and proportionate to the actual cost of the national rank in the top 10 within the next service for which the fee is imposed. decade; Abrams said there is a concern that some • Examine the mission, scope, and financing inspection fees are being used by municipali- of the university and propose ways to refocus ties as revenue sources and that in some cities or refinance the mission of offerings; and the cost of the regulation is far less than what • Examine the regent selection process. is being collected. He said the bill strikes the In looking at centers of excellence, Pawlenty appropriate balance between ensuring public said, “I’m concerned the rankings are not as safety needs are met but keeping the fees based good or as frequent as they should be.” He also on their true costs. was concerned many of Minnesota’s gifted stu- “This is the first step in the process by which dents leave the state for college. “We need a the Legislature can get a handle on one of the magnet to keep them here.” causes that is driving up housing costs,” he Additional centers of excellence should said. He added that he believed the vast ma- come from “the programs and departments jority of local officials want to know why their in which the university is currently considered fees differ from other cities. a national or regional leader and from exist- The bill would clarify that the state’s build- ing or potential interdisciplinary initiatives at ing code supercedes local ordinances. It also the university,” the bill states. would require municipalities to report annu- The commission must report on the regent ally to the Department of Administration all selection process by Jan. 15, 2002 and the mis- construction and development related fees sion focus and areas of excellence by July 15, that are collected. 2002. The commission would expire Dec. 31, Thomas Joachim, a state building official 2002. with the Department of Administration, said Christine Maziar, vice president for research the department is in the process of adopting a and dean of the university’s graduate school, new code that will become effective July 1, Deb Peterson from the state Attorney General’s said the U of M supports the idea. “This prom- Office answers questions from House Health and 2002. He said one of the principle concepts ises an exciting way to have further dialogue Human Services Policy Committee members April behind the code is that it is applied consis- on what the university needs.” 10 about a bill that would establish disclosure re- tently throughout the state. quirements for assisted living facilities that have Rep. Joe Opatz (DFL-St. Cloud) wants the Rep. Mary Liz Holberg (R-Lakeville) special care units for people with Alzheimer’s commission to include costs with any disease.

14 April 13, 2001 Committee. It was narrowly approved after a use of the term has more to do with the shar- lengthy discussion and sent to the House Health ing of identity and interests. and Human Services Finance Committee. The Latino community had around Iris Freeman, public policy director of the $2.8 billion worth of buying power in 1999 Alzheimer’s Association of Minnesota, said according to Val Vargas, the chief executive there are currently more than 90,000 people officer of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Minnesota with Alzheimer’s disease. She of Minnesota. characterized HF918 as “a comparison shop- Vargas said that by 2015 one out of every ping bill that will help families shop wisely.” 22 Hispanic adults would own a business. Areas of disclosure would include such Currently there are more than 2,000 Hispanic things as: a statement of philosophy; criteria businesses in the state. She said there are a for deciding who may reside in the special large number of Hispanic students in Minne- unit; the process for assessment; staff creden- sota and many of them would like to stay be- tials, duties, and job descriptions; physical cause of the economic opportunities found in environment characteristics; type and fre- the state. quency of activities and programs for resi- Vargas grew up in a Twin Cities suburb dents; and fee schedules for additional where her family was the only Hispanic fam- services. ily in the area. But she said that over the past The bill is a “product of lengthy discussion” few years she has seen the rapidly changing by the nursing home industry, the attorney face of the area. general’s office, and the Alzheimer’s Associa- Rep. Carlos Mariani (DFL-St. Paul) said his- tion, according to Doug Beardsley, public af- torically the state’s Hispanic population was fairs chair for Care Providers of Minnesota. found mostly in the western part of St. Paul “It’s a delicate balance,” Beardsley said. “I be- but now there are significant numbers in lieve we’ve achieved a workable disclosure places like Moorhead and Willmar. agreement.” “It’s everywhere and that’s a good sign, a Several lawmakers voiced concerns about healthy thing for this state,” he said. Otremba’s bill, especially over the role played by the attorney general’s office. Val Vargas of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce “I’m very reluctant to add more regulations of Minnesota testifies April 10 before the House when I’m not convinced there’s a problem,” Redistricting Committee. INDUSTRY said Rep. Lynda Boudreau (R-Faribault). next few weeks that will focus on presenta- Assistant Attorney General Deb Peterson tions from the state’s minority communities. Governor grants miners benefits said the only power being given to the attor- “It’s critically important that we hear testi- The House passed a conference committee ney general was to enforce disclosure mony from these groups,” Paulsen said. He report April 9 that would allow laid-off LTV violations. said the committee hopes to learn more about miners to collect an extra 26 weeks of unem- Rep. Bill Haas (R-Champlin) said he was the business and industries of the communi- ployment benefits when regular benefits uncomfortable with the bill and suggested ties along with their social, cultural, religious, expire. waiting until next session to consider it. and historical backgrounds. Unemployment benefits are running out for “There are thousands and thousands of Rick Aguilar, president of St. Paul-based about 30 LTV Steel Mining Co. workers laid Alzheimer’s patients out there, and some of Aguilar Productions, said the Hispanic com- off in August 2000. More than 1,300 additional them are being cared for inappropriately,” munity is now the largest minority commu- workers of the Hoyt Lakes plant were laid off Otremba said. “I am not willing to wait and nity nationwide and the state’s Hispanic when the company went bankrupt in sacrifice a few more patients.” population is changing. February. Committee Chair Rep. Fran Bradley (R- “Immigrants who historically left are stay- The measure (HF47) was passed by the Rochester) said he supported the bill. “It is the ing now,” Aguilar said. House with a 126-5 vote and passed the Sen- right level of compromise.” Ricardo Vallejos, president of the Minne- ate April 11. Rep. Tom Rukavina (DFL-Vir- sota-based International and Ethnic Commu- ginia) sponsored the bill in the House. nications, said there are differences between Gov. Jesse Ventura signed the measure into how traditional America views such concepts law April 11. It is effective for benefits retro- IMMIGRATION as culture and values compared to how those active to Aug. 1, 2000. Rep. Tom Bakk (DFL-Cook) explained to Hispanic population prospers in Hispanic communities view the terms. Vallejos said the “Anglo” definition of cul- House members the reason they received a The 1990 census showed the state’s Hispanic ture has to do with shared beliefs and values, conference committee report so early in the population to be 53,884. Ten years later that along with ways of thinking and language. But session. population grew to 143,382, a 166 percent in- Latinos tend to view culture more in historic “Those 900 people on unemployment ben- crease. terms, as traditions are an important part of efits are making decisions about how to put The House Redistricting Committee heard life. their lives back together for themselves and from representatives of the state’s fastest grow- Similarly Vallejos said in defining commu- their families,” he said. ing minority community April 10. Rep. Erik nity, the Anglo definition incorporates geo- The former LTV workers are also moving Paulsen (R-Eden Prairie), the committee chair, graphic area into the equation while the Latino into new careers, and Bakk said in rural said the hearing was the first of several in the

Session Weekly 15 Minnesota one can’t go down the street and Rep. Wes Skoglund (DFL-Mpls), would allow of health for the MN ENABL teen pregnancy find another job — especially on the Iron the commissioner of human services to pay a program and $3 to the Department of Chil- Range. “Their skills are unique to the indus- fee to financial institutions for information dren, Families, and Learning for “parenting try,” he added. relating to parents whose child support pay- time centers.” The fiscal impact of the bill has HF47 was initially passed by the House ear- ments are overdue. not yet been determined. lier in the session. In its original form, it Smith successfully proposed a second A similar bill passed both the House and granted an extra 13 weeks of unemployment amendment reducing a proposed $700 pen- Senate last year but was vetoed by Gov. Jesse compensation for those laid off last August. alty the state may impose on financial institu- Ventura because it increased all marriage li- Another bill had been introduced that would tions that fail to comply with subpoenas for cense fees to $75. The Senate overrode the veto, have provided a longer extension of benefits information regarding the financial resources but the House was unsuccessful in its attempt. for the workers laid off in February. of parents failing to make child support pay- William Doherty, a faculty member at the A Senate version of the bill, however, called ments. Under Smith’s amendment, employers University of Minnesota Law school special- for 30 weeks of unemployment compensation could be fined up to $500 per incident and izing in family law, said premarital counsel- for all former LTV workers and therefore a $25 per day. ing has been shown to increase couples’ conference committee convened. Christa Anders, legislative manager for the satisfaction and is associated with decreased HF47, as it was originally drafted, still ex- child support enforcement division at the divorce rates. He said successful counseling tends the time a mining plant is kept in oper- Department of Human Services, said federal includes conflict management and commu- ating condition from one year to two years to law requires states to impose monetary fines nication skills and should last at least 12 hours. give the state more time to find a buyer for on employers who fail to comply with court- the facility. ordered child-support wage garnishment. The former workers would be eligible for “This is the last thing we need to implement 26 weeks of compensation in a 95-week the federal mandate,” she explained during a Administering state courts window of time. This would allow workers to telephone interview. She said the federal gov- For the past 10 years, the state has been ex- be employed in temporary positions such as ernment would withhold about $3 million amining the option of taking over the admin- summer construction. from welfare grants if Minnesota failed to istration of the court systems in the state. As To receive benefits, applicants must be en- adopt the sanction on financial institutions. of July 1, 2000, costs for four of the state’s 10 rolled in an education or job training program. The committee approved the bill and re- judicial districts were transferred to the state. The 95-week period would extend through the ferred it to the House Health and Human Ser- A bill, sponsored by Rep. Ron Abrams (R- end of the 2001-02 school year, allowing time vices Policy Committee. Minnetonka), would continue the process, for applicants to complete any training programs transferring costs for all 10 districts to the state while still receiving benefits. by 2005. Rep. Dan McElroy (R-Burnsville) said with HF2244 would provide for the state take- HF47, “the LTV fix,” no further unemploy- Premarital counseling over of districts 2 and 4 (Hennepin and ment extensions for the workers should be In response to concern over high divorce Ramsey counties) in 2003, districts 1 and 3 necessary. rates, legislators are moving forward a plan in- (southeastern and south central Minnesota) Sen. Doug Johnson (DFL-Tower) sponsored tended to encourage engaged couples to seek in 2004, and districts 6 and 10 (northeastern the Senate version. premarital counseling. and east central Minnesota) in 2005. HF47*/SF39/CH30 A bill (HF2132), sponsored by Rep. Elaine “We are one state, we ought to have one ju- Harder (R-Jackson), would decrease the mar- dicial system,” Abrams said before the House riage license fee from $70 to $20 for couples Judiciary Finance Committee April 5. Minne- who receive at least 12 hours of premarital sota needs “equality of justice and equality of LAW education. the administration of justice.” Harder told an April 6 meeting of the House The committee approved the measure, as Child support changes Civil Law Committee that premarital educa- did the House Civil Law Committee. It now Lawmakers have removed a provision cre- tion can “have a positive effect on issues we moves to the House Taxes Committee, which ating driver’s license sanctions from a bill in- are wrestling with at the Capitol.” The com- Abrams chairs. Members expressed interest in tending to streamline child support payments. mittee approved the bill and referred it to the helping craft the final version of the bill that The House Civil Law Committee voted House Judiciary Finance Committee. might be included in the omnibus tax mea- unanimously April 6 to delete a section of cur- The bill specifies that counseling could be sure for 2001. rent law permitting the state to suspend the provided only by a licensed or ordained min- Abrams said counties are struggling to cover driver’s license of parents whose child support ister, a person authorized to perform marriage the costs of the judicial system, since costs have payments are overdue. ceremonies, or a licensed marriage or family increased significantly during the past few Rep. Lynda Boudreau (R-Faribault) pro- counselor. years, but Homestead Agricultural Credit Aid posed the amendment. She had explained pre- The committee amended the measure to (HACA) has only increased at a rate of about viously that the suspension is especially hard specify that $15 of the $20 fee remains with 1.6 percent. on rural parents who need a car to get to work. the county in which the license is granted. The The bill would create a formula for deter- Committee Chair Rep. Steve Smith (R- remaining $5 would be deposited into the mining how much a county’s HACA aid Mound) agreed, describing the provision as state’s general fund, as are most funds under should be reduced since the state is taking over “way too onerous.” the existing system. the costs of running courts. In addition to streamlining child support Of that $5, the bill would continue an ex- The Minnesota Supreme Court, which procedures, the bill (HF1807), sponsored by isting appropriation of $2 to the commissioner oversees state court administration, would

16 April 13, 2001 determine the county’s cost savings (which would take into account the transfer of cer- METRO AFFAIRS RECREATION tain court fines and fees to the state) and then Yer out! the county’s HACA payment would be per- ‘Sane Lane’ study A bill that would have provided a manently reduced by 50 percent of the net Legislators have approved a study of Inter- $140 million loan to the Minnesota Twins to cost. state 394 that could open high-occupancy help build a new stadium was tabled by the The remaining 50 percent of HACA would vehicle (HOV) lanes to all traffic for an esti- House Local Government and Metropolitan be reduced in the second calendar year fol- mated six weeks. Affairs Committee April 11. lowing the state takeover. The House Transportation Policy Commit- Rep. Philip Krinkie (R-Shoreview) made the Abrams said some counties might not be tee approved HF1054, sponsored by Rep. Jeff motion to table the bill. It was approved by a totally satisfied with the solution initially. But Johnson (R-Plymouth), April 10 and referred 12-6 vote. this is a situation, he said, where officials need it to the House Transportation Finance Com- In its original form, HF2214, sponsored by to evaluate whether the system is better five mittee without recommendation. Rep. Harry Mares (R-White Bear Lake), would years down the road. The lanes are designated for use only by require that one-half of the stadium costs be He challenged members of the committee vehicles carrying more than one passenger. financed by the Twins or other private sector to view the issue in the long-term context. They lead motorists east into Minneapolis contributions. The bill originally had the state Rep. Mary Murphy (DFL-Hermantown) from western suburbs in the morning, and are contributing a $100 million interest-free loan. agreed the system transfer needs to move for- reserved for outbound vehicles during the An amendment supported by Mares in- ward. She asked Abrams to discuss some of evening rush. creased the amount of the loan by the difficulties the counties already under state According to Christine Johnson of the Fed- $40 million but removed a provision that jurisdiction have had during the transition. eral Highway Administration, high-occupancy would have allowed the Metropolitan Coun- Abrams said it’s important as the plan vehicle lanes are designed to appear cil to issue up to $40 million of revenue bonds moves forward to make sure the counties are underutilized to frustrated commuters, who to help in construction costs. accurately reporting costs and the state judi- then feel motivated to carpool or ride the bus. The bill also would exempt the unspecified cial system receives an adequate budget to In the long run, she said, the very perception stadium site from property and sales tax. Fur- cover costs. of underutilization is “part of the attraction” ther sales tax exemptions would be applied to He also suggested giving chief judges a suf- for mass transit. the materials and supplies used in construction. ficient check and balance system with the state Rep. Johnson described the lanes as “a failed “I firmly believe in the concept of this bill,” court administrator in running each district. experiment in behavior modification,” and de- scribed as “purely speculative” concerns that Mares said at an April 9 hearing. “The Min- the study’s opening the lanes could increase nesota Twins are a very significant part of life congestion in all lanes. Johnson said he “is for millions of Minnesotans. They are truly a generally not a big fan of studies,” but that the Minnesota resource — economically, socially, LOCAL GOVERNMENT proposal is “the only way to go with respect to culturally. There is a great deal of support for Firefighter aid becomes law this issue.” the Twins.” Mares said the proposal would require no A new law signed April 11 by Gov. Jesse Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL-St. Paul) argued increase in taxes and that the Twins would ul- Ventura will give cities the authority to pro- the bill could ultimately hurt commuters by timately be responsible for more than vide housing assistance for volunteer eliminating current mechanisms that make 96 percent of the cost. The bill also requires firefighters and ambulance personnel. transit more attractive. that Major League Baseball adopt reforms to HF172/SF9*, sponsored by Rep. Harry George Bentley, acting transit administra- improve the game’s competitive balance. Mares (R-White Bear Lake), allows cities to tor for Plymouth Metrolink, a suburban Min- Karla Blomberg, a local realtor who co- offer the assistance to attract and retain quali- neapolis bus operator, said buses from his chaired the Twins funded “Committee of Min- fied personnel necessary to ensure timely agency, Metro Transit, and Southwest Transit nesotans for Major League Baseball,” said public safety service. all use HOV lanes. He predicted that closing when asked to serve on the committee she let Mares said he sponsored the bill on behalf the lanes would encourage suburban bus rid- it be known she knew little about baseball and of the city of Mahtomedi, which is seeking ers to simply drive themselves, making exist- was not interested in serving on a stadium help in attracting volunteer firefighters to the ing congestion worse. committee. city. Rep. Johnson characterized such concerns Blomberg said she was concerned about the The legislation was necessary because of a as “speculative,” urging the committee to “see challenge to remain independent since the precedent established by a 1952 state attorney what happens.” Twins funded the committee. But the integ- general opinion. That opinion held that the Responding to concerns raised by oppo- rity of committee members ensured their au- city of Newport did not have the authority to nents, Rep. Carol Molnau (R-Chaska), chair tonomy, she said. provide living quarters to its police chief un- of the House Transportation Finance Com- “Quality of life has long been a source of less the Legislature granted special authority. mittee, assured members that HF1054 would pride for Minnesota. Beyond having it in our Sen. Charles Wiger (DFL-North St. Paul) not pass her committee without assurances homes and our workplaces and in our educa- was the Senate sponsor. that closing HOV lanes would not violate fed- tion it’s outside. It is in the fields. It is recre- The law became effective April 12. eral contracts as to how the lanes would be ation and sports facilities and sports teams HF172/SF9*/CH19 used. The FHA’s Johnson suggested a violation that make up a big part of that quality of life. could result in a federal funding moratorium These are the things that put us on the map,” for Twin Cities metropolitan area transporta- Blomberg said. “Nobody would have ever tion projects. heard of Green Bay all around the country if

Session Weekly 17 TAXES Wedded tax bliss The House Taxes Committee Sales and In- come Tax Division heard a bill April 5 that would further reduce the “marriage penalty” found in the tax code. In both federal and state tax laws, married couples are sometimes required to pay more income tax than if they were to file as indi- viduals because of the different rates that ap- ply to individuals and joint filers. Two years ago the state adopted a marriage penalty credit that allowed a deduction for couples who file a joint return equal to the difference they would have paid if they had filed separate returns. HF1848, sponsored by Rep. Jim Knoblach (R-St. Cloud), would further reduce the mar- Wisconsin state legislator John Gard from Peshtigo holds up a newspaper proclaiming the opening of the new Miller Park, home of the Milwaukee Brewers. He told the House Local Government and Metro- riage penalty by allowing subtractions to five politan Affairs Committee April 9 of the little or no political fallout members received for voting to of the state’s tax credits, subtractions or ex- approve financial assistance for the stadium. Two days later the committee voted 12-6 to table the bill. emptions — the working family credit, the dependent care credit, the K-12 credit, the eld- it wasn’t for the Packers.” regulations to reduce the risk of cigarette-re- erly/disabled subtraction, and the alternative Speaking at the April 11 hearing, Tom lated fires and the enforcement of such regu- minimum tax exemption. Goldstein, a publisher of a literary baseball lations can be most efficiently and effectively Knoblach said although far fewer people are magazine questioned why the issue was even accomplished at the national level through affected by the inequities in the credits than being considered with other issues to address federal legislation.” the penalties that exist in the tax rates, the this session and with little public support be- Committee Chair Rep. Greg Davids (R- amount of those who are affected is far greater. hind the initiative. Preston) explained to committee members As an example he said currently a single Goldstein said there was nothing in the bill April 10 why he sponsored the resolution after mother of two with an income of $19,000 that would prevent the Twins from playing voting ‘no’ on the bill (HF175) for safer cigarettes. would qualify for a $1,347 working family county proposals against each other and ulti- Davids said he didn’t disagree with the mea- credit. If that person were to marry an indi- mately end up responsible for none of the sure, but was concerned about the effect it vidual with the same income, the couple costs. He said the proposed stadium was an would have on commerce in Minnesota. would lose the credit because the combined effort to cater to the elite at the expense of the “If there is no movement at the national income of $38,000 is over the eligibility true baseball fan. level … in a year I will consider where I am amount. “Major League Baseball is making a fatal on the bill,” he said. “Something needs to be The Department of Revenue estimates the mistake trying to attract customers and not done nationwide to make a safer cigarette that cost of the bill would be around $45 million fans,” Goldstein said. reduces fires.” in 2002 increasing to $57 million by 2005. The HF175 would have required the state fire estimate did not include the administrative marshal to adopt rules regarding fire retardant costs the department would incur. standards for cigarettes. The fire safe cigarettes “I don’t believe we should be penalizing SAFETY would not have been required to be the only marriage in our tax code,” Knoblach said. type of cigarette sold in the state until a bill “Marriage is the foundation of our society.” Resolution for safer cigarettes stating so received legislative approval. The committee took no action on the bill, After voting down a measure to create rules Only New York has passed legislation on fire but Rep. Elaine Harder (R-Jackson), the divi- for fire retardant cigarettes, the House Com- safe cigarettes. Six other states have legislation sion chair, said it would be considered for merce, Jobs and Economic Development pending on the matter. possible inclusion in the omnibus tax bill. Policy Committee approved a resolution urg- Other members also expressed further sup- ing Congress to pass legislation requiring only port for the bill if no federal action results in the cigarettes that are less likely to start fires to be coming years. Rep. Tony Sertich (DFL- sold in the United States. Chisholm), a no vote on HF175, said he will keep Medical research break The resolution (HF2362) addresses some a close eye on New York and the effects the new concerns of members who voted down the bill laws have on commerce and communities. Last year an unusual new word made its way for fire retardant cigarettes earlier this session. into the American lexicon — the genome, also It reads, in part: “Whereas, the Minnesota Moving? known as the human genetic pattern. Legislature realizes that a state law may be ren- Please help save postage costs by One wouldn’t think the word would pop up dered less effective by the availability of non- keeping us informed of address in a House Taxes Committee hearing. But complying cigarettes from other states. changes. Call (651) 296-2146 or House Majority Leader Tim Pawlenty (R- “Whereas, the development of appropriate (800) 657-3550. Eagan) presented a bill to the committee April 10 that would establish a public/private

18 April 13, 2001 partnership designed to develop commercial Rep. Richard Mulder (R-Ivanhoe), the spon- health care premiums more affordable.” applications for biomedical research and tech- sor of HF1695, dubbed the bill “Pawlenty-lite.” Mike Burress, a financial planner from nologies, including genomics developed in the He said many small cities in his district are Swenson and Anderson, said there is a trend state. losing their populations and are thereby slowly for more businesses to not include one’s Pawlenty said HF2127, an initiative of Gov. dying. The bill would encourage business cre- spouse and dependents in their employee’s Jesse Ventura’s administration, would direct ation and retention in those communities. health care packages. the Department of Trade and Economic De- HF1695 would only apply to cities with “It is surprising to me the number of people velopment to establish a for-profit entity that populations of less than 1,200. In order for a who we counsel that pay for their own health would pursue biomedical innovation and business to qualify for the exemption it would care,” Burress said. commercialization initiatives. have to be located more than five miles from The Department of Revenue estimates the The entity would be a joint venture between any city with a population greater than 10,000, cost of expanding the subtraction would be the state, the University of Minnesota, the be owned and operated by a person living in around $32 million in 2002, increasing by medical technology industry, and private in- the same city, and could not be a franchise or about $3 million each year after that. The es- vestors. The bill would allow a 25 percent owned by a large corporation. timate does not include the administrative credit against the individual income and cor- Mulder said that there is a high risk involved costs the department would incur. porate franchise tax for investments in the in opening a business in a small community Rep. Roxann Daggett (R-Frazee), who car- initiative. The total cash investment in the that’s losing its population. In order to stop ried a similar measure that was included in entity is capped at $40 million. the population loss, he said, communities last year’s omnibus tax bill but did not sur- Pawlenty said the bill is an attempt to ad- must retain businesses like hardware and gro- vive the conference committee, said she ap- dress Minnesota’s ability to continue to com- cery stores. preciated that Bernardy brought the issue plete in a changing economy. “Maybe this is the incentive they need,” he back. Dr. Mark Paller, assistant vice president of said. “It seems unfair that a certain few just can- the University of Minnesota’s Academic The Department of Revenue was unable to not get this break that others are,” she said. Health Center, said the biomedical industry estimate how much the bill would cost, but is rapidly growing. Mulder said that because small border cities “This would provide a business opportu- might attract businesses from other states to nity to position the state of Minnesota for a come to Minnesota, the impact to the state future prominent role in the biomedical in- probably would be small. TRANSPORTATION dustry,” Paller said. The committee took no action on the bill, .08 shot down Rep. Dan McElroy (R-Burnsville), who is but Rep. Elaine Harder (R-Jackson), the divi- By an overwhelming margin, a House com- sponsoring a similar measure because he be- sion chair, said it would be considered for mittee has rejected a plan to reduce the legal lieves in the economic development potential, possible inclusion in the omnibus tax bill. blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) for oper- had concerns with the bill. He said that be- “This is one small thing we can do to main- ating vehicles from .10 to .08. The House cause the state no longer requires corporate tain these communities,” Mulder said. Transportation Finance Committee voted the bylaws, it wasn’t clear how the entity would “So it’s one small step for the tax commit- bill down April 9 by a 10-4 vote. function. tee, one giant leap for rural mankind,” Harder Sponsored by Rep. Matt Entenza (DFL-St. McElroy also pointed out there was no defi- quipped. Paul) and Rep. Kevin Goodno (R-Moorhead), nition in the bill of what “biomedical” HF51 was estimated to save the state encompasses. $2.4 million in fiscal year 2002, a figure that Pawlenty said he wanted to keep the defini- reflects federal funds expected to be made tion as broad as possible, and that he would Better health available as an incentive to states that adopt work on clarifying the way the entity would A bill that would allow more Minnesotans the 0.08 level. Were the bill adopted, the De- function. to subtract health insurance premiums from partment of Revenue estimates the state would The committee adopted a couple of techni- their taxes was heard by the House Taxes Com- save a total of $24.7 million through different cal amendments to the bill clarifying language, mittee Sales and Income Tax Division April 5. grant programs by fiscal year 2005. but took no further action. Rep. Ron Abrams The committee took no action on the mea- On the other hand, if the state does not (R-Minnetonka), the committee chair, said it sure, but Rep. Elaine Harder (R-Jackson), the move to .08 by 2004 it could lose federal high- would be considered for possible inclusion in division chair, said it would be considered for way dollars. the omnibus tax bill. possible inclusion in the omnibus tax bill. HF1995, sponsored by Rep. Connie The Senate version, SF118 sponsored by Bernardy (DFL-Fridley), would expand the Sen. Leo Foley (DFL-Coon Rapids), was de- current state subtraction for health insurance feated in the Senate State Government, Eco- Stimulating economic development premiums for the self-employed to include all nomic Development, and Judiciary Budget Early in the session the House Taxes Com- medical care expenses for all taxpayers. Division April 5. mittee heard a bill sponsored by Majority Bernardy said approximately 90 percent of The fiscal impact of the bill has been espe- Leader Tim Pawlenty (R-Eagan) that would health care premiums are currently deduct- cially difficult to calculate, in part because fed- establish 10 tax free zones in the state to en- ible including employer paid or employee paid eral incentive money is dispersed according courage economic development. from pre-tax accounts. There also is a deduc- to the order in which states adopt .08, and The committee’s Sales and Income Tax Di- tion allowed for the self employed. other states could do so earlier or later than vision heard a bill April 5 that would provide She added, “6.2 percent of the premiums anticipated. a sales tax exemption on the first $1 million paid do not receive a tax break or deduction. The bill’s genuine cost has also been ob- in sales for small businesses in small cities. This is an issue of fairness and would make scured by confusion regarding federal

Session Weekly 19 funding, other than the incentive dollars, to states adopting the lower limit. The federal BIG BEAR COUNTRY PROPOSAL government chose to reallocate federal mon- ies from transportation to public safety projects in states with a limit above .08. However, Committee Chair Rep. Carol Molnau (R-Chaska) emphasized that Minnesota appropriated that money specifically to improve- ments in the driver’s license database, and not to what she described as “hazard mitigation,” an expenditure more closely related to projects as- sociated with transportation spending. Kenn Rockler, executive director of the Wine, Beer, and Spirits Federation of Minne- sota, warned that dropping the legal blood- alcohol limit would result in a $20 million loss in state tax revenue. Entenza disagreed, claim- ing to have data showing an increase in alco- hol consumption and tax revenue in states moving from a .10 to a .08 limit. Goodno said the only fee increase for .08 convicts would be a $2.50 increase in the $20 PHOTO BY TOM OLMSCHEID driver’s license reinstatement fee. Larry Fiegen, chair of the Citizens for Bear Center, describes the Big Bear Country Education Center to members of the House Jobs and Economic Development Finance Committee during an April 6 hearing. Also testifying on the project were Richard Swatek, director of the Koochiching Economic Development Authority, and Mayor Gary Buentemeier of Northome. Photocop measure fails Citing potential technical glitches and “philosophical objections,” the House Trans- explained his opposition to the bill grew from $200 million would be devoted to Greater portation Policy Committee rejected a bill that concern that the signals could someday be Minnesota trunk highway improvements. She would have allowed local governments to en- used to monitor crosswalks and other inter- proposed those figures based on a similar pro- force existing traffic signal laws with photo- sections. He added that were the system to be posal made last year. graphic evidence. refined, “people would be cut out completely” Ruth said in a later interview that she would HF663, sponsored by Rep. Len Biernat from the enforcement process. “Violators “leave up to leadership” the decision whether the (DFL-Mpls), would have allowed cities to erect would be policed by just a machine,” he said. $400 million would be appropriated from the “photocop” cameras activated only when cars Tom Trekker, Minnesota Coordinator for the state’s estimated $856 million surplus at the con- enter intersections after the stoplight has National Motorists Association, said enforce- clusion of the current fiscal year. She suggested turned red. Biernat told the committee ment mechanisms such as proper engineering bonding, appropriations from future surplus, or April 5 that a second photograph is then taken of intersections, increased yellow-light durations, eliminating non-highway expenditure from the to determine the direction of the car and and public education campaigns are “far more highway user tax distribution fund could suffi- whether it was stuck in traffic or if the driver effective than camera enforcement.” ciently cover the appropriation. waited for other cars before turning left. “There is absolutely nothing we can accom- Waseca Mayor Tom Hagen testified in favor Police officers would inspect the images and plish public-safety wise with a camera,” Com- of HF1286, explaining that “a few years ago, I mail tickets to those drivers who genuinely mittee Chair Rep. Tom Workman would have said ‘Give back all the surplus.’ Hav- appear to be running a red light. The bill speci- (R-Chanhassen) said. ing become a public servant, I have seen the fies that photocop systems may photograph unmet needs, particularly in our community.” only the rear of a vehicle and not drivers. Hagen specifically mentioned U.S. Highway The bill would have exempted owners of Bottlenecks and regional corridors 14, which runs through his community and stolen vehicles and car rental companies. It Lawmakers are considering devoting hun- which Ruth described as a “death trap,” as a also guaranteed that photocop tickets would dreds of millions of dollars to eliminating traf- likely candidate for improvement. He said the not appear on drivers’ records. fic bottlenecks in the Twin Cities metropolitan appropriation would allow Waseca to “focus Biernat said photocop systems are used by area and improving “at-risk” regional highway on downtown revitalization” and “help the 40 foreign countries, at least 14 states, and the corridors in Greater Minnesota. private economy to flourish.” District of Columbia. The House Transportation Finance Com- Rep. Ray Vandeveer (R-Forest Lake) de- After using the systems, San Francisco expe- mittee heard two bills containing one-time scribed his proposed $60 million appropria- rienced a 40 percent decline in the number of appropriations April 11, choosing to lay both tion as “a little more modest.” cars running red lights at intersections with the over for possible inclusion in the committee’s HF1965 would devote $25 million for each system, while Washington D.C. experienced a omnibus bill. of the appropriations in Ruth’s bill, and would 59 percent decline. He said that according to na- HF1286, sponsored by Rep. Connie Ruth provide $10 million for transit advantages tional figures, running red lights yields 89,000 (R-Owatonna), would devote $200 million such as park-and-ride lots. crashes, 80,000 injuries, 1,000 deaths, and “primarily for the purpose of improving traf- The committee adopted an amendment for- $7 billion in economic loss each year. fic flow and expanding highway capacity” bidding the use of the funds for any expendi- Rep. Andrew Westerberg (R-Blaine) around the Twin Cities. An additional ture related to light rail or commuter rail.

20 April 13, 2001 T ISSUE: EDUCATION dents and family, and collaborative activities A with other schools or with social service and law enforcement agencies providing truancy reduction activities,” the bill states. Rep. Len Biernat (DFL-Mpls) said he ap- preciates the premise behind the bill, but it may be shifting what is presently counties’ re- sponsibility to local school boards. Carlson said language in the bill describes a “community-wide approach” in programs to Truancy prevention reduce truancy. Bill aims to set student attendance goals high and provide Youth workers testified in support of the bill, telling the committee that truancy work- rewards for meeting those goals ers are spread thin and assistance with this growing problem is greatly needed. BY THERESA STAHL are eligible for free and reduced price meals.) On any given day in Minneapolis or St. Paul, ince he retired from a long teaching Truancy revenue issued to schools would be 10 to 15 percent of students miss school, said career, Rep. Lyndon Carlson (DFL- over and above funds a district is already Susan Carstens, a juvenile specialist with the SCrystal) said he has been asked how things spending on truancy prevention measures. Crystal Police Department and Truancy Coa- have changed in the classroom. Most changes Programs to reduce truancy may include lition. She explained the bill evolved from were positive, he said, but there were also “parental involvement programs, programs findings of a task force to study truancy. problems, mainly relating attendance and designed to increase personal contact with stu- “There is a high correlation with kids mobility. who miss school and kids in corrections,” The number of students who were fre- Carstens said. quently absent was minimal in Carlson’s Stephanie Autumn, staff member at the early years of teaching, he said. In his last Council on Crime and Justice, has seen the year, however, he said his attendance book same results in years of work with truants. was scattered with absences and excuses. Autumn, herself an American Indian, said Combining his own experience with the the American Indian community has the findings of a statewide study on truancy, lowest high school graduation rate and Carlson is sponsoring a bill (HF2376) that subsequently the highest dropout rate. would attempt to reduce truancy by help- However, she said, the problem starts long ing schools set attendance goals and pro- before high school. viding financial incentives for schools to “We’re losing children before they get to meet those objectives. middle school,” Autumn said. She cited The House K-12 Education Finance poverty, violence, and homelessness as rea- Committee heard the bill April 9, and will sons for truancy. consider it for inclusion in its omnibus bill. Rep. Bob Ness (R-Dassel) said with so HF2376 would require school districts many programs from preschool to post- to establish a minimum threshold for stu- high school, “Where is the disconnect?” dent attendance of 95 percent. Rep. Jim Steven Robinson, associate director of Abeler (R-Anoka) offered an amendment the Youth Intervention Programs Associa- to require a 95 percent student attendance tion, who attributed truancy to a “lack of goal for secondary schools and a social skills and the issue of mental health,” 97 percent student attendance goal for el- said the lack of connection takes place out- ementary schools. Carlson did not object side the social structure of school. to the amendment, which was approved. “We need to address things going on in Under the bill, school districts would be families. It is parents’ responsibility to get required to issue an initial report of its tru- these kids to school, but they need our ancy goals, as well as its current truancy help,” he said. rates to the Department of Children, Fami- School officials say they don’t have the lies and Learning. Annual reports on the resources to provide help in addressing is- outcomes of truancy reduction efforts sues outside of school, Robinson said. The would also be submitted to the department. bill addresses helping community organi- The bill would cost about $8.2 million in zations collaborate, something Robinson each year of the 2002-03 biennium. School said “needs to happen.” districts would receive an additional PHOTO BY ANDREW VON BANK “When they drop out of school they also 4 percent of the district’s base compensatory Stephanie Autumn, staff member at the Council of Crime drop out of the community and into the revenue only if its truancy goals are met. and Justice, testifies April 9 before the House K-12 Edu- justice system,” Autumn said. “We need to (Compensatory revenue is a portion of cation Finance Committee in support of HF2376, a bill be making our schools community-based school’s general education funding. The rev- that would promote school success through enhanced schools.” pupil attendance, and provides funding for truancy re- enue is based on the number of students who duction activities.

Session Weekly 21 T ISSUE: GOVERNMENT A

Out with the old Lawmakers move to repeal obsolete laws dealing with issues ranging from loose cattle to dance marathons

BY DAVID MAEDA 1937 horn honking law, said the bill also re- urrent Minnesota law requires that you pealed laws regulating trackless trolleys and honk your car horn within 200 feet of any prohibiting an owner of a coach carrying pas- Ccurve on a “mountain highway” where sengers from employing any person who is your view is obstructed. addicted to the excessive use of intoxicating The 1937 law is one of several on the books liquors. that do not seem to apply to modern times. The bill passed by a 130-0 vote. It now awaits Lawmakers demonstrated April 5 that it the governor’s signature. might be easier to be in agreement when re- McElroy also sponsored a bill that repeals a pealing obsolete laws than it often is when law prohibiting “itinerant carnivals.” passing new ones. The statutes define an itinerant carnival as Much of that day’s floor session was devoted “a promiscuous gathering of people, as spec- to bills repealing old laws. Due to the nature tators or otherwise, at which lewd or obscene of the bills, a lot of the discussion on the House features are a part, or at which any gambling HF1637 — repeals provisions that require counties to licens floor was light-hearted as members found concessions are given or games of chance prac- roaming at large in a town. HF1616, sponsored themselves in the unusual position of talking ticed or in or about which actors or other per- by Rep. Mark Thompson (DFL-New Hope), about gypsies, dance marathons, and castrat- sons connected therewith are engaged in would repeal a rule specifying what types of ing breachy cattle. immoral pursuits, or at which attractions are sirens are approved on emergency vehicles. The day was a culmination of an effort by exhibited which affect the health or morals of Gov. Ventura also signed SF327, sponsored lawmakers this session to take a good look at the community.” by Sen. Arlene Lesewski (R-Marshall). It takes existing laws and see which ones really are SF971, sponsored by Sen. Randy Kelly effect Aug. 1. obsolete or outdated. Although the Office of (DFL-St. Paul), also passed by a 130-0 vote. SF972, sponsored by McElroy and Kelly, the Revisor of Statutes does propose a bill Gov. Jesse Ventura signed the bill April 11. It would repeal a law prohibiting endurance con- eliminating obsolete references each year, takes effect Aug. 1, 2001. tests such as dance marathons. It passed some things still slip through. McElroy said other existing statutes regu- 129-2 with Reps. Mary Murphy (DFL- Most of the bills passed April 5 with little late the more conventional and traditional cir- Hermantown) and Michael Paymar (DFL-St. dissension and were considered so cuses held in the state. Paul) casting dissenting votes. The bill, signed uncontroversial in the Senate they were placed Among other obsolete law bills that passed by Gov. Ventura on April 11, becomes law on the consent calendar where they passed unanimously were SF327, sponsored by Rep. Aug. 1. unanimously. Marty Seifert (R-Marshall), which tosses out Rep. Barbara Goodwin (DFL-Columbia Rep. Dan McElroy (R-Burnsville), the a statute that required the chair of town boards Heights) asked McElroy if he would support House sponsor of SF480 which repealed the to castrate stallions, bulls, boars, or rams

SF480 — abolishes statutes that define a trackless trolley car, that regulate driving through rough country (such as having to sound your horn around “mountainous” curves), and that prohibit employment by passenger carriers of persons addicted to liquor.

22 April 13, 2001 enough money that they can afford to go out and afford to buy that ticket they just may not do it from someone in Minnesota. We ought to at least acknowledge what’s happening and we should go ahead and repeal this law.” Rep. Tom Osthoff (DFL-St. Paul) spoke against the repealing of ticket scalping saying the law was in place to ensure people of all incomes could afford to go to sporting events. “I get really upset when I see people charg- ing $7,000 for tickets that have face value of $75 or $150,” Osthoff said. “What you’re pro- posing is that only big business or the rich can buy tickets to go into publicly sponsored events in our state. When travel agencies can SF971 — repeals a law that prohibits holding itin- buy big blocks of tickets and then raise the erant carnivals (those that travel from place to price to sell them so that average people can’t place and are engaged in “immoral pursuits”). get them, I believe that’s a mistake.” Osthoff’s com- ments prompted a lively exchange with Rep. Phyllis Kahn (DFL-Mpls). “Rep. Osthoff do you really believe that the Minnesota law against scalping has se hawkers and peddlers. prevented the sale of scalped tickets?” the ban of marathon legislative floor sessions Kahn asked. and committee hearings. Osthoff replied, McElroy pointed out, to choruses of laugh- “Rep. Kahn that’s a ter, that the proposed repealed law had to do question you ought to SF972 — repealing the law prohibiting endurance contests, particularly all- with entertainment and he didn’t think too ask your chief of po- night dance marathons. many Minnesotans are “entertained” by the lice. He said he’s made arrests to stop it. But I Legislature. know we don’t have this problem in St. Paul, Not all the bills were agreed upon so unani- seems only to be a Minneapolis problem.” mously. “Maybe if you had anything worth going HF1637, sponsored by Rep. Mark Buesgens on in St. Paul,” Kahn retorted, again answered (R-Jordan), would repeal licensing of hawk- with good-natured exclamations. ers and peddlers. Rep. Wes Skoglund (DFL-Mpls) said he Rep. Dan Dorman (R-Albert Lea) offered thought that sponsors of major sporting an amendment to the bill that would repeal events, such as the NCAA Men’s Final Four HF1616 — repealing obsolete rules of the commis- the state’s law prohibiting the reselling of tick- basketball tournament, would not come to a sioner of public safety prescribing standards for ets above their face value. sirens on emergency vehicles. city that allows scalping. “This is going on whether we want to ad- The amendment failed by a 91-39 vote. The mit it that it’s going on or not. People are pay- Seifert said that even if the bill did not pass, bill passed unanimously. ing more than face value for tickets all the the agency was going to invalidate the rules Another bill that generated discussion was time,” he said. “Right now if someone has this summer at a cost of $6,700 to go through HF615, sponsored by Seifert, that dealt in part the repeal process. He said the rules have not with repealing rules of the Pollution been used in seven years. Control Agency in abating tire The bill failed by a 66-64 vote. Seifert moved dumps. that it be reconsidered and returned to the Rep. Jean Wagenius (DFL-Mpls) General Register. That motion was approved said she opposed the bill because and the bill likely will be taken up again later officials from the PCA testified in in the session. committee that the counties would become responsible for dealing with waste tires. Photos courtesy of the Minnesota Historical Society “I don’t think we want to be shift- SF327 — repeals a provision about requiring the castration of certain male animals or breachy cattle (those prone to ing this to property taxes,” Wagenius breaking through fences). said.

Session Weekly 23 T ISSUE: HEALTH • Authorization of grants for transition ser- A vices to young adults with severe emotional disturbances to help them live independently, • Increased coverage for community-based rehabilitative mental health services for adults, and • Establishment of coverage for adult mental health crisis response services. Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Roseville), spon- sor of HF987, brought to the lawmakers’ at- Forging ahead tention a report by the Citizens League that A quintet of bills focus on early intervention to prevent long- lambasted the state’s efforts in the area of children’s mental health. term mental health problems “More than 10 years after its passage, the mission of the Children’s Mental Health Act BY MARY KAY WATSON • Funding for suicide prevention planning (of 1989) remains utterly unfulfilled,” states embers of the House Health and and community-based programs, the January 2001 report. Human Services Finance Committee • Establishment of discharge plans and HF987 would attempt to help children who Mconsidered five bills relating to mental transition services for offenders with are already in crisis. It would appropriate $2 illness at their April 11 meeting. All five were mental illness before their discharge from million to the commissioner of the Depart- laid over for possible inclusion in the prison, ment of Human Services for children and ado- committee’s finance bill. • Updating reimbursement rates for mental lescents with emotional disturbances who Rep. Fran Bradley (R-Rochester) is sponsor- health and psychiatric services, exhibit violent or destructive behaviors, in- ing two major mental health bills this year. • Establishment of coverage requirements for cluding a pilot project for counties to do men- HF812, the Comprehensive Mental Health Act mental health services and treatment, tal health screening of youth in the juvenile of 2001, would provide a systematic improve- • Appropriation of funds for grants to court system. ment in the state’s mental health system, and programs that provide economic support Similar projects have shown “significant HF1531 would allow greater flexibility for or housing assistance to people with results,” said Glenace Edwall, director of provision of mental health services. mental illness, and children’s mental health for the department. But other initiatives, sponsored by Rep. Mindy • Prohibiting health plans from refusing to “Results of screening youth from ages 10 to Greiling (DFL-Roseville) and Rep. Harry Mares cover health services that result from 18 showed substantial reduction in the num- (R-White Bear Lake), also make significant ad- suicide attempts. bers of incidences of violence, severity of justments to the mental health system. HF1531 includes mental health initiatives violence, petty offences, and misdemeanors.” Based on recommendations by the Mental and changes to statutes recommended by the In addition to HF987 a second bill, spon- Health Legislative Network, a collaboration of state Department of Human Services. Its fis- sored by Rep. Harry Mares (R-White Bear 17 nonprofit organizations, HF812 would ap- cal impact would be about $4.6 million for the Lake) also addresses the recommendations of propriate approximately $100 million for the 2002-03 biennium. the Citizen League report’s that emphasis must 2002-03 biennium. Among its provisions are Some of the provisions included in HF1531 be placed on better mental health screening the following: are: and early intervention for children and adolescents. HF1221 would appropriate $1.5 million for grants to school districts to establish pilot pro- grams for integrated service models for children’s mental health. Mares said the current system is fragmented and his bill would attempt to provide a coor- dinated system that would identify youths with problems at an early stage. “By intervening early, we hope to reduce the costs of out-of-home placement,” said Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhart. “We want to reach children who are having diffi- culty academically and socially, but may not yet be in crisis.” Greiling also presented HF281, a bill that would modify the legal definition of “mentally ill person” and would revise civil commitment PHOTO BY ANDREW VON BANK John Milton (right), legislative co-chair of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Minnesota, testi- law to help the mentally ill get treatment fies in front of the House Health and Human Services Finance Committee April 11 in support of HF281. before a crisis develops. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Mindy Greiling, left, modifies the definitions of civilly committing mentally The fiscal note for HF281 estimates the cost ill and emergency hold standards. Continued on page 31

24 April 13, 2001 T ISSUE: HIGHER EDUCATION “We realize the need for the prevention pro- A gram, but I believe we as a state have to pri- oritize where we are spending our dollars, and I think the most pressing issue facing the state right now is in terms of our medical industry providing training for some of those people,” Stang said. “It’s not that smoking prevention is not important. We do leave local money in there and there is still some money in the state- wide prevention as well.” Fringe benefits Rep. Marty Seifert (R-Marshall), a co- Plan to transfer state tobacco settlement funds sponsor of the bill, said the measure presents a tough choice. to the University of Minnesota faces a tough road “This is not fun or popular, but it is neces- sary,” he said. “We do not have enough money BY MIKE COOK to provide everything everybody wants. If we egislators have ignited a plan that could don’t do this, where do we find the money, or aid the University of Minnesota’s should we just cannibalize the academic health LAcademic Health Center, but others want center and not train doctors and pharmacists to snuff it out. anymore?” Rep. Doug Stang (R-Cold Spring) presented “If this appropriation prevails it will pro- HF2381 to the House Higher Education Fi- vide resources for the Board of Regents that nance Committee April 6. His bill transfers a will fix the core budget of the medical school, portion of the money from one of the two the portion of the budget that pays faculty to endowments of the annual tobacco payments teach, that pays staff to support the faculty, and gives it to the other, which would produce and pays for systems such as information tech- more money for the university’s academic nology that support the education of health health center. professionals that supply 60 percent of the The academic health center comprises seven health professional workforce to the state,” said schools and colleges of medicine, public Dr. Frank Cerra, senior vice president for health, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, and vet- health sciences at the university. erinary medicine, as well as various allied Without a core funding increase, the uni- health programs and the university hospital. versity is faced with the following options: a “This is one of the more pressing issues this hiring freeze, a tuition increase of at least committee has discussed this session,” said 10 percent per year — possibly up to 20 per- Stang, who sits on the committee. “We’ve cent — starting July 1, and the likelihood of heard a lot of testimony from the academic paring down programs. Even with the appro- health center, the needs they are facing, and priation, Cerra said a double-digit tuition in- some of their concerns if we don’t address crease “is very real anyway.” some of their funding issues.” While the university would like to see the The measure will be considered for possible plan succeed, a dozen testifiers at the hearing inclusion in the committee’s omnibus bill. said it is a bad idea. Saying this a health issue, not an education “I can’t tell you strongly enough how much one, Rep. Thomas Huntley (DFL-Duluth) PHOTO BY ANDREW VON BANK the administration opposes this approach to tried to move the bill to the House Health and Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm solving a problem,” said Jan Malcolm, state testifies before the House Higher Education Fi- Human Services Policy Committee during the nance Committee April 6 in opposition to HF2381, health commissioner. “I’m happy there will be April 11 floor session. After a brief discussion, a bill that would increase aid to the University of no disruption of local programs, but their ef- his idea was defeated 69-60. Minnesota Academic Health Center with proceeds fect will be diminished without state support. Under the plan, $212 million would be from the tobacco settlement. Tobacco use is the number one preventable transferred on July 1, 2001 and $38 million cause of not only premature death but illness Of the money, $8 million will meet the U of one year later from the state’s tobacco use pre- and disability.” M’s budget request to stabilize the core funding vention endowment fund to the state’s Noting that 38.7 percent of today’s of the medical school, and $2.6 million will be medical education endowment fund. 12th-graders have used tobacco once in the used for the interdisciplinary academic initia- Monies used for the program would come past 30 days, Phil Bartusek, a lieutenant with tive, including the areas of medical science, from earnings on the investments of the two the Albert Lea Police Department who has nursing, rural dentistry, and pharmacy. endowments established with the tobacco helped conduct more than 800 compliance The remaining $3.5 million would remain funds, estimated at $23 million for the checks, said that number is above the national for statewide tobacco programs in 2002. biennium. average and growing. “We have work to do. If The bill also outlines how money is distrib- “We are not touching the local tobacco pro- this passes, tobacco wins and kids lose.” uted in future years, with each area projected grams or the local public health. We are only Guy McDonald of Edina gave the most to receive more annually based on future impacting the statewide tobacco money of investment earnings. $14.1 million (in fiscal year 2002),” Stang said. Continued on page 31

Session Weekly 25 J ANUARY 3 - APRIL 12, 2001 OVERNOR’S DESK CHAPTERS 1 - 23 G

Tracking new laws, vetoes

Once a bill has passed both the House and doesn’t sign the bill within this time frame, it session of the Legislature, anything vetoed af- Senate in identical form, it’s ready to be sent will become law with or without his signature. ter the Legislature adjourns is history — at to the governor for consideration. The gov- (Sundays are not counted in the three-day least until the next year. ernor, who has several options when consid- time limit, but holidays are.) The governor’s veto authority is outlined ering a bill, can: Only on appropriations bills can the gov- in the Minnesota Constitution (Article IV, • sign the bill and it will become law; ernor exercise the line-item veto authority. Section 23). • veto the bill; This option allows the governor to eliminate • line-item veto individual items within an the appropriation items to which he or she This information is also available on the appropriations bill; objects. As with all vetoes the governor must governor’s Web site (www.governor.state.mn.us). • or do nothing, which can have two differ- include a statement listing the reasons for Select the “Legislative Initiatives” link, then click on ent effects. The timing of these actions is as the veto with the returned bill. Here, too, the “Legislative Log 2001.” important as the actions themselves. timetable is within three days after the gov- Key: In the first year of the biennium, the im- ernor receives the bill. CH=Chapter; HF=House File; SF=Senate File portant thing to remember is that the gov- A two-thirds vote of the members in each ernor has three days from the time of house is needed to override a veto. But be- “presentment” to veto a bill. If the governor cause only the governor can call a special

CHHF SF Description Signed Vetoed

Res.1 219 258* Resolution requesting a ban on the importation of certain steel products. 3/15/01 Res. 2 670 647* Resolution memorializing the President and Congress to fund 40 percent of special education costs. 4/6/01 1 34 28* Teacher licensing under current licensure rules. 1/16/01 2 421* 460 Energy assistance program federal fund expenditure authorized. 2/2/01 3 213 201* Physicians assistants infection control continuing education requirements repeal. 2/15/01 4 181 43* Adult foster care license capacity age requirement and maximum admissions variances. 2/28/01 5 817 376* City contract limit increases. 3/2/01 6106*47 Minnesota agricultural education leadership council replacement members authorized 3/8/01 7 656* 231 Revisor’s Bill. 3/15/01 8 80* 79 Coon Lake water level control. 3/16/01 9 393* 155 Ramsey County and St. Paul employees allowed equal competition for county jobs in city-county departments. 3/16/01 10 357 289* Alcohol and drug counselors licensing requirements modified. 3/16/01 11 487 433 Townships health, social, and recreational services contracts amounts increases. 3/21/01 12 320* 399 Property casualty insurance agents surplus lines insurance procurement authority. 3/29/01 13 1016509* City and county obligations payment by electronic transfer or credit card authorized. 4/6/01 14 368 63* Stearns County Highway 55 bridge designated as Old St. Anne’s pass. 4/6/01 15 243 346* Trusts; uniform principal and income act modified, and antilapse law clarified. 4/6/01 16556*756Federal law enforcement officers authorized to exercise arrest powers in MN under specified circumstances. 4/9/01 17 416400* Hokah authorized to vacate roads if necessary due to extensive damage. 4/9/01 18 1046991* Notifies schools of student possession of drug paraphernalia. 4/11/01 19 172 9* Authorizes cities to provide housing assistance for volunteer firefighters or ambulance personnel. 4/11/01 20 64 971* Repeals law prohibiting itinerant carnivals. 4/11/01 21 394 327* Repealing statutes concerning castrating animals running at large in a town. 4/11/01 22 466 972* Repeals law prohibiting endurance contests. 4/11/01 23 252 570* Repeals obsolete rules. 4/11/01

*The legislative bill marked with an asterisk denotes the file submitted to the governor.

26 February 4, 2000 ILL INTRODUCTIONS A PRIL 9 - 11, 2001 B HOUSE FILES 2420 - 2453

Monday, April 9 HF2429—Dibble (DFL) HF2437—Erickson (R) HF2447—Abrams (R) Taxes Education Policy Taxes HF2420—Mares (R) Metropolitan property tax levies for Wrestling teams required to be Tax increment financing, abatement, transit operations eliminated, sales gender-separated. and related development statutes mi- Civil Law tax rate and motor vehicle sales tax nor and technical changes provided. Maltreatment of Minors Act clarified rate reduced, and area transportation HF2438—Winter (DFL) regarding the role of the Department partnership sales taxes imposed. HF2448—Davnie (DFL) of Children, Families and Learning; Agriculture & Rural and other special programs provided. Development Finance Governmental Operations & HF2430—Jaros (DFL) Grain inspection fee study provided Veterans Affairs Policy HF2421—Rukavina (DFL) Commerce, Jobs & and report required, and money Permanent resident non-citizens au- Jobs & Economic Economic Development appropriated. thorized to vote in local elections and Resolution urging the United States constitutional amendment proposed. Development Finance Congress to amend the Railroad HF2439—Gerlach (R) Virginia central steam heating system Unemployment Insurance Act. HF2449—Daggett (R) repairs provided, bonds issued, and Transportation Finance money appropriated. Dakota County; Cedar Avenue trans- Taxes HF2431—McElroy (R) portation corridor feasibility and en- Income tax return forms to include a HF2422—Mulder (R) Taxes vironmental studies, and preliminary line allowing taxpayers to report use Electric utility property tax exemp- engineering, funding provided and tax liability. Education Policy tion provided, state aid payments to money appropriated. Small school districts and school dis- local governments provided, bonds HF2450—Rukavina (DFL) tricts on the state border authorized guaranteed, and money appropriated. HF2440—Stang (R) to determine appropriate school guid- Taxes ance counselor to student ratio. Taxes Taconite production tax rate modi- HF2432—Winter (DFL) Rockville city and fire hall construc- fied, tax proceeds distributed, tax re- HF2423—Abeler (R) Agriculture & Rural tion materials and supplies sales tax lief area definition modified, local exemption provided. government state aid provided, and Health & Human Services Policy Development Finance money appropriated. Traumatic brain injury waiver Soybean oilseed processing facility HF2441—Dehler (R) amended to include acquired or de- development grant authorized and HF2451—Wenzel (DFL) generative diseases including Multiple money appropriated. Governmental Operations & Sclerosis. Veterans Affairs Policy K-12 Education Finance Video lottery terminals authorized, rev- Independent School District No. 482, HF2424—Hausman (DFL) Wednesday, April 11 enue use specified, penalties prescribed, Little Falls, laboratory school estab- lished in Randall to develop innova- Health & Human Services Finance and local regulatory authority provided. tive teaching techniques, facility Ramsey County nursing facility rate HF2433—Osskopp (R) renovation authorized, and money increase provided. Health & Human Services Policy HF2442—Gunther (R) appropriated. Vulnerable adults; assessments and in- Jobs & Economic HF2425—Clark, K. (DFL) Development Finance vestigation of reports provisions modi- HF2452—Folliard (DFL) Environment & fied, and enforcement authority by the Lewisville wastewater infrastructure Environment & Natural Natural Resources Policy attorney general provided for certain grant provided, bonds issued, and Resources Policy Removal of the word “squaw” from offenses against vulnerable adults. money appropriated. Toxic pollution prevention plan re- Minnesota geographic features quirements expanded, surcharge pro- provided. HF2434—Dibble (DFL) HF2443—Vandeveer (R) vided on releases of persistent Transportation Policy Transportation Policy bioaccumulative toxics, related pol- HF2426—Tuma (R) Community preservation routes cat- Lino Lakes Highway 49 speed limit lution prevention funding provided, egory established in the county state- designated. Judiciary Finance and money appropriated. Alternative dispute resolution pro- aid highway system and municipal grams established in the third and state-aid street system. HF2444—McElroy (R) Taxes HF2453—Davnie (DFL) fifth judicial districts and money Governmental Operations & appropriated. HF2435—Gleason (DFL) Tax increment financing consultant Local Government & registration and regulation provided. Veterans Affairs Policy Local governments authorized to per- HF2427—Abeler (R) Metropolitan Affairs mit permanent resident non-citizens Health & Human Services Finance Richfield; Metropolitan Airports HF2445—Anderson, I. (DFL) to vote in local elections and consti- Commission required to transfer Taft Education Policy Nursing facility construction mora- tutional amendment proposed. torium exception provided to allow a Park property to Richfield. Students prohibited from enrolling renovation, operating rate increase in another school district to avoid and property rate increase for a 64- HF2436—McElroy (R) being dismissed under the Pupil Fair bed facility for residential rehabilita- Taxes Dismissal Act, and behavior agree- tion operations provided, and money Taconite production tax rate reduced, ments applied to new enrolling appropriated. payment provided in installments, districts. grants provided, distributions of the HF2428—Abeler (R) tax modified, and taconite industry HF2446—Folliard (DFL) K-12 Education Finance equipment and personal property Education Policy Pupil transportation reserve account sales tax exemption provided. Online learning pupil units provided established and money appropriated. and report required.

Session Weekly 27 OMMITTEE SCHEDULE A PRIL 16 - 21, 2001 C

MONDAY, April 16 RULES & LEGISLATIVE ADMINISTRATION HF934 (Bradley) Alternative quality assurance 500N State Office Building licensing system project for programs for persons Chr. Rep. Tim Pawlenty with developmental disabilities expiration date No committee hearings. Agenda: Calendar for the Day for Wednesday, extended, requirements modified, and money April 18, 2001. appropriated. Amendment to Joint Rules (Olson, M.). HF1014 (Boudreau) Medical assistance TUESDAY, April 17 reimbursement for special transportation 1:30 p.m. services provisions modified. No committee hearings before 12 noon. HF1124 (Mulder) Nonmetropolitan inpatient Salary and Budget Subcommittee/ hospital rates for certain diagnosis-related groups 12 noon Legislative Coordinating Commission adjusted. 400N State Office Building HF1829 (Larson) Autistic children intensive early ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL Chr. Sen. Roger Moe intervention behavior therapy medical assistance RESOURCES FINANCE Agenda: Review/approve biennial budget coverage provided. ***NOTE ROOM*** proposal. Other business as approved by the HF1956 (Goodno) Program options for certain 500S State Office Building chair. persons with developmental disabilities Chr. Rep. Mark Holsten provided, and money appropriated. Agenda: ***NOTE CHANGE*** Immediately following the Salary and Budget HF1957 (Goodno) Medicare payment rate HF1031 (Hackbarth) Local community forest Subcommittee meeting established as rate for all nursing facility residents ecosystem health program, community forestry for the first 90 days, and money appropriated. assessments, and tree planting funding provided (approximately 2:15 p.m.) HF2179 (Mullery) Welfare-to-work and money appropriated. transportation funding provided and money HF1235 (Holsten) Forest management money Legislative Coordinating Commission appropriated. appropriated. 400N State Office Building HF693 (Goodno) Dentists loan forgiveness Department of Natural Resources: Division of Chr. Rep. Steve Sviggum program established, donated dental services Forestry. Agenda: Report from the Subcommittee on Salary program created, dental services and provider and Budget regarding biennial budget proposal. requirements modified, reimbursement rates JUDICIARY FINANCE Other business as approved by the chair. increased, immunities provided, and money Basement Hearing Room appropriated. State Office Building 3 p.m. HF278 (Nornes) Dentists; medical assistance Chr. Rep. Rich Stanek reimbursement rate increased for specified Agenda: HF1960 (Stanek) Sex offender and other THE HOUSE MEETS IN SESSION. dentists, dental hygienists permitted to perform offender registration law provisions clarified, services under supervision, grant program for DNA offender testing requirement expanded, 15 minutes after session community clinics established, and money and criminal penalties imposed. appropriated. HF1353 (Stanek) Recommendation required on WAYS & MEANS HF587 (Huntley) Detoxification services impact of entering into interstate compact for 200 State Office Building provided by counties reimbursed by state funds adult offender supervision, and commissioner Chr. Rep. David Bishop and money appropriated. of corrections required to develop a plan to Agenda: HF632 (Luther) Organ donors; paid HF1291 (Boudreau) Health plan subrogation handle interstate transfers of adult offenders. leave required for organ donation. clause limitation provisions modified. HF1330 (Clark, J.) Felony penalty for aggravated HF1293 (Davids) Public service commissioner’s HF1337 (Mulder) Health insurance; purchasing cruelty to pets imposed. remaining duties transferred to commissioner alliance stop-loss fund account created and HF1918 (Tuma) State public defender salary of commerce, light capacity scales inspection money appropriated. provided. provided, unfair cigarette sales act administration HF1668 (Mullery) Hennepin County Southeast HF2132 (Harder) Marriage license fee reduced transferred to commerce, and money Asian collaborative transitional employment for couples who obtain marital education, and appropriated. training project federal TANF funding provided fee disposition provided. HF1080 (Thompson) Gender-specific language and money appropriated. HF2291 (Skoglund) Automated victim replaced with gender neutral language in the Note: If necessary, agenda will be continued notification system implemented, report constitution, and constitutional amendment Wednesday, April 18, at 8:15 a.m. in 10 State required, and money appropriated. proposed. Office Building. HF848 (Skoglund) Electronic evidence search HF156 (Seifert) Barber shop registration fee warrants authorized on foreign corporations, exception provided for sole operators of multiple Minnesota corporations to provide electronic shops. WEDNESDAY, April 18 evidence when served, and specified child One hour after session pornography penalties enhanced. 8 a.m. 12:30 p.m. HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES FINANCE JUDICIARY FINANCE 10 State Office Building 500S State Office Building AGRICULTURE & RURAL Chr. Rep. Rich Stanek DEVELOPMENT FINANCE Chr. Rep. Kevin Goodno Agenda: HF660 (Anderson, I.) Medical assistance Agenda: HF260 (Stanek) Criminal justice 10 State Office Building information system improvements provided Chr. Rep. Bob Ness mileage reimbursement increased. HF706 (Goodno) Breast and cervical cancer including fingerprinting, collection of aliases, Agenda: Omnibus Agriculture and Rural and suspense file reporting, and money Development Finance Bill: treatment medical assistance eligibility established and money appropriated. appropriated. HF1266 (Ness) Dairy diagnostics and Discussion of Judiciary Finance Omnibus Bill. modernization program additional funding HF775 (Boudreau) Day training and habilitation provided and money appropriated. service variance request mediation process established, rate structure pilot project provided, county responsibilities defined, task force extended, and money appropriated.

28 April 13, 2001 8:15 a.m. modified, electronic accident reporting HF2244 (Abrams) Provides for state funding of authorized, driver instruction requirements trial courts in unfunded judicial districts. HEALTH & HUMAN modified, and public safety department HF2436 (McElroy) Taconite tax reduction. SERVICES FINANCE advertising revenue expanded. HF1907 (Biernat) General education levy 10 State Office Building HF1949 (Westerberg) Trunk highway bond provided as a state-determined, state collected Chr. Rep. Kevin Goodno proceeds and highway bond-financed property levy. Agenda: Continuation of Tuesday, April 17, governing provisions modified. HF1874 (Abrams) Department of Revenue agenda. penalty disclosure bill. HF2427 (Abeler) Nursing facility construction 9 a.m. HF577 (Lenczewski) Amendment to Minnesota moratorium exception provided to allow a Constitution; allows a reverse referendum to renovation, operating rate increase and property STATE GOVERNMENT FINANCE rescind increases in certain state tax revenues. rate increase for a 64-bed facility for residential 300N State Office Building Note: Bills not heard today will be heard rehabilitation operations provided, and money Chr. Rep. Philip Krinkie on Thursday, April 19, 2001, 30 minutes appropriated. Agenda: Public testimony on HF218 (Krinkie) after session in 200 State Office Building. HF2424 (Hausman) Ramsey County nursing State Government Finance Bill. facility rate increase provided. HF218 (Krinkie) State Government Finance Bill: 12:30 p.m. HF2303 (Huntley) Duluth nursing home Section 12, proposed budget for Department of moratorium exception provided. Administration. AGRICULTURE POLICY HF2146 (Milbert) South St. Paul nursing home Additional bills may be added. 10 State Office Building bed moratorium exception provided and money Chr. Rep. Tim Finseth appropriated. 10:15 a.m. Agenda: Informational hearing on Foot and HF1962 (Marquart) Wilkin County nursing Mouth Disease. Representatives of the facility bed moratorium exception provided. ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the HF1117 (Jennings) Pine City nursing facility RESOURCES FINANCE Board of Animal Health will be discussing tips replacement bed moratorium exception 10 State Office Building for farmers on how to prevent the possible spread provided. Chr. Rep. Mark Holsten of the disease and also some security measures HF1030 (Lenczewski) Bloomington nursing Agenda: ***NOTE CHANGE*** the state will be taking. facility replacement exception to moratorium HF659 (Wolf) Minnesota Energy Security and provided, rate increased, and money Reliability Act adopted requiring an energy plan, FAMILY & EARLY CHILDHOOD appropriated. providing essential infrastructure, regulating EDUCATION FINANCE HF531 (Johnson, R.) Hospital construction and conservation expenditures, encouraging 5 State Office Building new nursing facility bed moratorium exceptions flexibility, and providing safety standards. Chr. Rep. Barb Sykora provided. HF1323(Jennings) Electric generation parks Agenda: Walk-through of Committee Omnibus HF787 (Abeler) Nursing home moratorium authorized, Minnesota energy reliability trust Bill (Delete-all to HF1515). exception priority for Anoka area extended, and fund established, generation facility incentives money appropriated for moratorium exceptions. provided, center for energy security created, tax 3 p.m. HF1319 (Huntley) St. Louis County nursing incentives provided, and money appropriated. facility laundry costs calculated into total THE HOUSE MEETS IN SESSION. operating payment rate. K-12 EDUCATION FINANCE HF2117 (Rhodes) Raw food cost adjustment 5 State Office Building excluded from nursing facility rate computations. Chr. Rep. Alice Seagren THURSDAY, April 19 HF124 (Folliard) Home care providers required Agenda: Governor’s Budget - Department of to provide notice of service termination, and Children, Families and Learning’s budget. state health care program reimbursement rates HF928 (Abeler) Relating to education; including 8 a.m. increased for home care providers. the removal of architectural barriers for access Note: If necessary, agenda will be continued for disabled persons as a health and safety JUDICIARY FINANCE Thursday, April 19, in 10 State Office Building. program expenditure. Basement Hearing Room HF2428 (Abeler) Relating to education finance; State Office Building JOBS & ECONOMIC creating a transportation reserve account; Chr. Rep. Rich Stanek DEVELOPMENT FINANCE appropriating money. Agenda: Discussion of Judiciary Finance 200 State Office Building HF1854, (Abeler) Relating to education; Omnibus Bill. Chr. Rep. Dan McElroy developing special education services and access Agenda: Presentation of the Jobs and Economic to information. 8:15 a.m. Development Finance Omnibus Bill; committee HF2380 (Sykora) Relating to education; comment and public testimony. providing students with additional opportunities HEALTH & HUMAN Note: If you are interested in testifying, please to learn to read. SERVICES FINANCE contact Ann Matuella, Committee Legislative HF1470 (Buesgens) Relating to education; 10 State Office Building Assistant, no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 17. requiring that school district contracts with Chr. Rep. Kevin Goodno teachers be structurally balanced. Agenda: HF795 (Johnson, S.) Ramsey County TRANSPORTATION FINANCE HF601 (Johnson, R.) Relating to education; project ReConnect grants provided and money 5 State Office Building appropriating money for a grant to Independent appropriated. Chr. Rep. Carol Molnau School District No. 508, St. Peter, for declining HF811 (Swenson) Rural hospital capital Agenda: HF2174 (Osskopp) Gambling control pupil aid. improvement grant and loan program board authorized to use unmarked vehicles and HF2407 (Ness) Relating to education finance; established and money appropriated. registration tax exemption provided. modifying the definition of equity revenue; HF924 (Nornes) Residential mental health grant HF2292 (Stanek) Metropolitan Council adding a small schools factor. program for facility upgrades established and demonstration project funded to provide express money appropriated. bus service between downtown TAXES HF1833 (Goodno) Multiple sclerosis services Minneapolis and locations outside transit taxing 200 State Office Building nursing facility reimbursement pilot project district, and money appropriated. Chr. Rep. Ron Abrams authorized and money appropriated. HF624 (Seagren) Light rail; requiring route to be Agenda: HF2339 (McElroy) Exempts current HF2088 (Kubly) Rural hospital or nursing home identified before spending appropriations to value of utility generation personal property health professionals loan forgiveness program study light rail transit and commuter rail. from the general education levy; reduces the established and money appropriated. HF2193 (Vandeveer) Special “choose life” motor class rate on utility generation personal property. HF1376 (Abeler) Human services licensing vehicle license plates authorized, adoption HF2431 (McElroy) Provides that certain personal background studies provisions modified. support account established for grants to property of an electric utility is exempt from HF1851 (Abeler) State health care program counties, and money appropriated. taxation; provides state aid payments to replace the provider participation nonfinancial barrier HF1527 (Kuisle) Motor vehicle definitions, revenue loss by local government provides a state identification required. registration, and dealer regulation provisions guarantee for certain bonds; appropriates money. HF1307 (Bradley) Guardianship service

Session Weekly 29 providers defined, duties specified, and money 10:15 a.m. TAXES appropriated. 200 State Office Building More bills will be added. ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL Chr. Rep. Ron Abrams Note: If necessary, agenda will be continued at RESOURCES FINANCE Agenda: Continuation of bills not heard on the call of the chair in 5 State Office Building. 10 State Office Building Wednesday, April 18, 2001. Chr. Rep. Mark Holsten HFXXXX (Dawkins) Reforms state aid programs; TRANSPORTATION FINANCE Agenda: ***NOTE CHANGE*** modifies local government aid; adjust HACA. 5 State Office Building MORNING AGENDA Chr. Rep. Carol Molnau HF766 (Holsten) Environment and natural Agenda: HF1146 (Ozment) Salt distribution resources appropriation bill. FRIDAY, April 20 stockpiles design, construction, and use AFTERNOON AGENDA requirements established. HF1313 (Ozment) Soil and water conservation HF852 (Howes) Motor vehicle filing fees district grants provided for nonpoint engineering 7:30 a.m. modified and clarifying changes provided. technical assistance, feedlot water quality HF1054 (Johnson) I-394 “sane lanes” use by management program, and special projects cost- ***NOTE TIME*** single-occupant vehicles study and report share program; and money appropriated. JOBS & ECONOMIC required, and money appropriated. HF2342 (Osthoff) Empire Builder property in DEVELOPMENT FINANCE HF1728 (Workman) Transit assistance fund St. Paul compensation for environmental 200 State Office Building expenditures restricted to operating and capital contamination remediation provided, Chr. Rep. Dan McElroy assistance to public transit systems, motor vehicle claim priority provided, and money Agenda: Mark-up of Jobs and Economic sales tax revenue dedicated, and constitutional appropriated. Development Finance Omnibus bill. amendment proposed. HF83 (Anderson, I.) Deer River fire station Note: This meeting is scheduled to last until HF1921 (Workman) Bus transit study authorized addition design appropriation provided. 12:45 p.m. and bus transit way within part of the southwest HF1984 (Olson, M.) Wright County Indian light rail transit corridor prohibited. Lake aeration treatment grant provided and 8 a.m. HF2309 (Kuisle) Trunk highway project money appropriated. construction considerations clarified. Note: Meeting will reconvene immediately JUDICIARY FINANCE HF1861 (Holberg) General obligation bonds following session in 10 State Office Building. 500S State Office Building authorized to be issued for trunk highway Chr. Rep. Rich Stanek construction, and constitutional amendment Sales and Income Tax Division/TAXES Agenda: HF699 (Sykora) Domestic abuse proposed. 5 State Office Building criminal and civil penalties and procedures HF362 (Westrom)Diesel fuel minimum biodiesel Chr. Rep. Elaine Harder modified, and money appropriated. fuel content specified. Agenda: ***NOTE CHANGE*** Discussion of Judiciary Finance Omnibus Bill. HF1974 (Gray) Modifies the education credit 9 a.m. and subtraction, allows certain credits to be 8:15 a.m. assigned, and provides duties and powers to ***NOTE TIME CHANGE*** commissioner of revenue. HEALTH & HUMAN Property Tax Division/TAXES HF2124 (Stang) Exempts certain additional SERVICES FINANCE 200 State Office Building classroom materials from sales and use taxes. 10 State Office Building Chr. Rep. Ron Erhardt HF2125 (Dawkins) Provides that the education Chr. Rep. Kevin Goodno Agenda: ***NOTE CHANGE*** expense credit and deduction apply to certain Agenda: To be announced. HF2375 (Erhardt) Deed taxes definition of expenditures for pre-kindergarten expenses and consideration clarified. museum memberships. 9 a.m. HF1402 (Erhardt) Homestead, agricultural, and HF2247 (Bernardy) Allows an income tax seasonal recreational property exempted from subtraction for the purchase of classroom STATE GOVERNMENT FINANCE general education tax; property tax class rates materials for teachers. 300N State Office Building reduced; homestead credit program established, HF2256 (Bernardy) Allows the education income Chr. Rep. Philip Krinkie school district levy computation modified, and tax subtraction and credit for extracurricular Agenda: To be announced. money appropriated. activities and musical instruments. HF187 (Abrams) Specified tax increment HF1740 (Clark, J.) Increases aid to counties with 10:15 a.m. financing districts modifications prohibited and tribal casinos. expenditures limited. HF1820 (Clark, J.) Exempts the purchase of ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL HF662 (Rukavina) Aurora housing and construction materials and equipment used in RESOURCES FINANCE redevelopment tax increment financing district constructing or improving certain buildings in 10 State Office Building extended. the city of New Ulm. Chr. Rep. Mark Holsten HF1505 (Lenczewski) Pre-1990 tax district five- HF1444 (Wilkin) Abolishes withholding taxes Agenda: To be announced. Possible a.m. and year rule applied and time limitations provided. on wages, and provides for payment of estimated p.m. meeting schedule. HF1676 (Wasiluk) North St. Paul provided tax taxes on wages. increment financing grant. HF2234 (Erhardt) Increases the maximum long- HIGHER EDUCATION FINANCE HF2157 (Swenson) Gaylord tax increment term care insurance credit, reduces the lifetime 300S State Office Building financing law approval time extended. benefit requirement, and extends the credit to Chr. Rep. Peggy Leppik HF2173 (Howes) Park Rapids tax increment employers. Agenda: To be announced. financing district requirement extension provided. 12:30 p.m. K-12 EDUCATION FINANCE 5 State Office Building STATE GOVERNMENT FINANCE AGRICULTURE & RURAL Chr. Rep. Alice Seagren 300N State Office Building DEVELOPMENT FINANCE Agenda: To be announced. Chr. Rep. Philip Krinkie 10 State Office Building Agenda: HF218 (Krinkie) State Government Chr. Rep. Bob Ness TAXES Finance Bill: Agenda: To be announced. Basement Hearing Room Section 12, proposed budget for Department of State Office Building Administration 3 p.m. Chr. Rep. Ron Abrams Section 2, proposed budget for the Legislature. Agenda: HF1416 (Abrams) Streamlined Sales Section 3, proposed budget for the Governor’s THE HOUSE MEETS IN SESSION. Tax Bill. Office. Other bills may be added. Additional bills may be added. Meeting may be 30 minutes after session continued following session.

30 April 13, 2001 SATURDAY, April 21

9 a.m.

STATE GOVERNMENT FINANCE 300N State Office Building Chr. Rep. Philip Krinkie Agenda: To be announced. More lawmakers and staff are walking Disasters caused by melting snow, rain- outside instead of through the under- storms, and tornadoes may not be pre- 10 a.m. ground tunnel to get to session in the Capi- dicted early in spring, but the state JUDICIARY FINANCE tol. This is a sign of better things to come, Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Basement Hearing Room and a welcome sight as spring arrives in the is certain about some insect infestations State Office Building capital city. after a cool winter and quick thaw. This Chr. Rep. Rich Stanek Agenda: Discussion of Judiciary Finance But residents of river towns and the Na- year, the armyworm is a possible culprit. Omnibus Bill. tional Guard may have a different view as The DNR believes a “bumper crop” of ar- they are building mounds of sandbags myworms will appear and eat the canopies along parts of the Red, Minnesota, and of leaves of northern forests. Continued from page 24 Mississippi rivers should the waters rise An invasion of armyworms, or forest to be $1.9 million for 2002 and $3.14 million above their flood stage. tent caterpillars, was first recorded in 1922. in future years. The latter amount would be Many of the river towns have only just As they marched across northeastern Min- reduced by one-half if HF1531 passes, recovered from the devastating floods of nesota, they left in their wake thousands according to Greiling. 1997, but the latest of aspen and Greiling believes HF281 will save money in calamity caused by a birch trees the long run, but the Department of Human quick thaw and ma- stripped of Services has interpreted the bill as meaning jor rainstorms leads leaves. Every many more people would go to regional one to think of the 11 to 15 years treatment centers. words of former since, moths In eight states with similar laws to this bill, New York Yankees fly in droves admissions actually fell, according to John catcher Yogi Berra, to new areas Milton, legislative co-chair of the National “It’s deja vu all over A drawing of a modified hopperdozer, designed by and lay mil- Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Minnesota. Gustav Heydrich of New Ulm, Minn. in 1876. The again.” paddlewheel design was never implemented, but lions of eggs “Mental illness is a medical problem, not a If flooding be- as outbreaks deficiency,” Greiling said. “If you put money other versions were used to collect grasshoppers comes too serious during infestations. continue to into early care it clearly does save money in and reaches a criti- Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Historical Society spread. the long run.” cal, emergency stage the Legislature might Now that the tent caterpillars have respond with aid as it has for other disas- added basswood and oak to their menu in Continued from page 25 ters. For example, two bills are now pend- central and west central parts of the state, graphic testimony as to the dangers of tobacco ing in both the House and Senate that they cover everything — highways, sides use. would provide relief for the July 2000 tor- of houses and more — as they extend their He began smoking at age 15 and did not nado in Granite Falls. onslaught to defoliate more trees. quit until he was 65. Now at age 76 he has In the past, lawmakers have also re- The Legislature will likely not be called emphysema and must carry an oxygen bottle sponded to invasions of insects, major for- upon to assist since tent caterpillars are at all times. Coming in from the parking lot est fires, and other quirks of nature. more nuisance than devastation compared outside the State Office Building, a distance The Grasshopper Invasion of the 1870s, to grasshoppers, floods, or tornadoes. Ar- of roughly 100 yards, McDonald said he had almost devastated the state’s major wheat myworm outbreaks may last for two or to stop twice for rest. resources. In 1873, a swarm of millions of three years, but the trees will not be “I can’t encourage young people enough to Rocky Mountain locusts, or grasshoppers harmed and the leaves will grow back. not use tobacco,” he said. “My golden years descended upon southern and southwest- Floods, tornadoes, and grasshopper in- have been tarnished by smoking.” ern Minnesota, and ate every plant in sight. vasions are destructive. They usually re- St. Paul’s Leo Jackson, a senior at Cretin- Each summer for four years thereafter, quire major efforts and assistance to start Derham Hall High School has lost many fam- grasshoppers spread destruction over more over or rebuild. Armyworms can be better ily members to cancer related to smoking, and than 28 counties. The Legislature inter- dealt with, even if one falls from a tree into has one uncle who could die anyday. “Please vened with appropriations for relief, boun- a hotdish some mild Minnesota summer help this cause to keep all of us healthy,” he ties for insects caught by the bushel, and evening. said. “Today’s youth do not want to have to money for seed for the next season’s crops. worry about carrying oxygen tanks, or if I am But not until midsummer 1877 did the —LECLAIR GRIER LAMBERT going to die tomorrow.” grasshoppers suddenly leave. Why or where “By taking these funds away we are greatly they went is an unsolved mystery. diminishing (the efforts of anti-tobacco youth) and we are sending the wrong message to youth on their input on tobacco preven- tion,” said Rep. Paul Marquart (DFL-Dilworth).

Session Weekly 31 MINNESOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE 175 STATE OFFICE BUILDING ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA 55155-1298

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE: STEVE SVIGGUM MAJORITY LEADER: TIM PAWLENTY MINORITY LEADER: THOMAS W. PUGH

INNESOTA M INDEX FOR MORE INFORMATION Teens and Tobacco For general information, call: House Information Office Percent of Minnesota high school students who used tobacco products (651) 296-2146 or at least once in a 30-day stretch ...... 38.7 1-800-657-3550 Middle school students ...... 12.6 National high school average, as percent ...... 34.8 To obtain a copy of a bill, call: Chief Clerk’s Office Middle school ...... 12.8 (651) 296-2314 High school students who smoked cigarettes at least once within 30 days, as percent ...... 32.4 To find out about bill introductions or Middle school students ...... 9.1 the status of a specific bill, call: National averages for high school students, as percent ...... 28.4 House Index Office National averages for middle school students, as percent ...... 9.2 (651) 296-6646 Percent of high school students who smoked 20 or more days out of 30 ...... 16.9 Middle school students ...... 2.5 For an up-to-date recorded message High school students who had their first whole cigarette at age 12 or younger, giving committee meeting times and as percent ...... 47.2 agendas, call: Percent of high school students using smokeless tobacco at least once Committee Hotline (651) 296-9283 in a 30-day period, as percent ...... 10.2 Middle school students ...... 2.2 National averages for high school students, as percent ...... 6.6 The House of Representatives can be National averages for middle school students, as percent ...... 2.7 reached on the World Wide Web at: High school students who have already tried smoking, or are susceptible http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us to start, as percent ...... 73 Middle school students ...... 49.5 Percent of high school smokers who have tried to quit at least once Teletypewriter for the hearing impaired. in the previous year ...... 61 To ask questions or leave messages, Percent able to stay off cigarettes for 30 days or less in their last attempt ...... 48.5 call: Percent of high school students who gave someone else money to TTY Line (651) 296-9896 or 1-800-657-3550 buy cigarettes ...... 41.7 Borrowed them from someone else...... 23.6 Check your local listings to watch Bought them in a store ...... 15.9 House committee and floor sessions Percent of middle school smokers who borrowed cigarettes from on TV. someone else ...... 29 Senate Information Gave someone money to buy them ...... 23.8 296-0504 Took them from a store or family member ...... 19 1-888-234-1112 High school students who bought or tried to buy cigarettes (within a 30-day stretch) who were asked for identification, as percent ...... 41 Senate Index Estimated number of public high school students under age 18 using tobacco 296-5560 products whose primary source for tobacco is direct purchase at stores ...... 15,000 This document can be made available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by calling Percent state hopes to reduce youth tobacco use by in next five years ...... 30 (651) 296-2146 voice, (651) 296-9896 TTY, or (800) 657-3550 toll free voice and TTY. Source: Minnesota Youth Tobacco Survey, Minnesota Department of Health, August 2000.