SESSION WEEKLY

Bills move in, bills move on State companies make the Fortune list A look back to ‘Grace’ Legacy bill put on hold

HF2085 - HF2343

A NONPARTISAN PUBLICATION MINNESOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES • PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES VOLUME 29, NUMBER 3 • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 Flashback 1992 to 2002

Amazing ‘Grace’

A proposal to make Eric Enstrom’s “Grace” the state Cut staff to increase salaries to those who remain photograph was approved by a House committee. A $2.3 million cut in the University of Minnesota budget Rep. Loren Solberg (DFL-Bovey) successfully put translated to putting 25 Minnesota Extension Service forward a resolution agents out of work. The cut reflects fewer federal and asking the U.S. Post Office state funds and a salary and benefit increase proposed to create a postage stamp for all university staff. reproduction of the photograph. The House Agriculture Committee learned that new county agriculture agents earn $20,000 a year, while Brina Carlson, an Itasca graduates of the University’s College of Agriculture earn County resident who an average annual salary of $27,000. The decision was served on a committee that supports the designation, made to pay “those who remain a decent kind of salary,” said the picture is known throughout the world. rather than employ more people at a lower wage, said Pat “It’s a piece of Americana and it’s a piece of Minnesota,” Borich, extension director. he said. “It has worldwide renown yet so few people — Session Weekly, Jan. 17, 1992 recognize that it came from Minnesota.”

— Session Weekly, Feb. 15, 2002

Contents SESSION WEEKLY Session Weekly is a nonpartisan publication of the Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services. Produced during session, it covers the previous week’s news from the House. No fee. Highlights: • 3-17 Session Weekly (ISSN 1049-8176) is published Bill Introductions: HF2085-HF2343 • 18-23 weekly during the legislative session by Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services, 175 State Office Building, Index: Doing business in Minnesota • 24 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298. Periodicals postage paid at St. Paul, Minn., and additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Session Weekly, House Public Information Services, 175 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298.

Printed on recycled paper which is 50% recycled, 50% post-consumer content.

On the cover: Gov. Mark Dayton delivers his second State of the State address to a joint session of the Legislature Feb. 15.

­— Photo by Paul Battaglia HIGHLIGHTS F E B R uary 2 - 16, 2012

entitlement,” said Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL- allow for more intensive horse operations on Editor’s note: It has been a very active stretch of time for proposed legislation. Many bills South St. Paul). fewer acres raised objections from committee received hearings in House committees or divi- Rep. (DFL-Twin Valley) members. sions, several were acted on by the full House supports the bill because the restrictions Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL-South St. Paul) and even the governor weighed in on four bills. for the 22 herds are still in place. “This is said the bill needs to be amended so that Because of last week’s precinct caucus break and no Session Weekly, we are foregoing our something the whole state benefits from,” urban residents can’t put a “pony in the tradition of a “First Reading” page 3 story, in Eken said. “I don’t think the whole burden backyard” and declare agricultural status order to give readers a more comprehensive should be borne by those directly impacted.” and receive lower property tax rates, which look at this week’s legislation with our Preliminary cost estimates project could cause increased taxes for neighboring “Highlight” coverage. $100,000 in tax credits could be awarded to properties. affected ranchers. It was unclear whether the Sen. Doug Magnus (R-Slayton) sponsors money would come from the General Fund a companion bill, SF396, which awaits Editor’s note: The following Highlights or from the Department of Agriculture’s action by the Senate Agriculture and Rural are coverage of select bills heard in House budget. Economies Committee. committees and other House activities held Feb.2-16. Designations used in Highlight Rep. John Ward (DFL-Brainerd) asked — S. Hegarty summaries: HF-House File; SF-Senate File; whether the $100,000 cost would be shifted Ch-Chapter; and * the bill version considered onto other county property owners. Fabian by the House or the bill language acted on by said the funding details would be worked out Bonding the governor. in the House Taxes Committee. A companion, SF1555, sponsored by Sen. LeRoy Stumpf (DFL-Plummer), awaits Red Lake School seeks bonds Agriculture action by the Senate Taxes Committee. The Red Lake School District faces a unique problem. — S. Hegarty Because it lies completely within a Extending the bovine TB tax credit Horse livestock bill laid over reservation, the land isn’t available for A bovine tuberculosis outbreak in cattle Horses are considered livestock for property taxes that fund schools. That leaves near Roseau several years ago forced ranchers agricultural purposes, but equine operations the district in need of state funding for to stop using their pastures and destroy the may mean something entirely different when projects like renovations. animals to stop the spread of the disease. it comes to assessing property taxes. This was explained to the House Education They were given a property tax credit to A bill laid over Feb. 9 by the House Finance Committee Feb. 14 when Rep. alleviate some of their financial losses and Agriculture and Rural Development Policy David Hancock (R-Bemidji) offered two because the pastures are not suitable for and Finance Committee aims to fix a bonding bills that would benefit the district. other uses. In 2010, the Board of Animal discrepancy between the agriculture and HF2109 would provide nearly $8 million Health certified that a large portion of the property tax laws for horse breeders. to demolish the district’s original elementary affected zone was free of bovine TB, which St. Michael horse breeder David Dayon school. The money would also fund building automatically turned off the property tax was notified that he was being assessed at a district and student services area, media credit. a higher commercial tax rate, rather than center and technology labs, locker rooms and However, 22 of the previous 276 restricted the lower agricultural rate, when he sought support areas. herds are still subject to another year of clarification from legislators. HF1264 would appropriate $5.78 million bovine TB testing. These ranchers would HF539, sponsored by Rep. Bruce Anderson to renovate the high school and middle continue to receive the property tax credit (R-Buffalo Township), would modify school kitchen and cafeteria. Hancock under HF1890, sponsored by Rep. Dan the agriculture classification law so these said the facilities, which were built in the Fabian (R-Roseau). operations may qualify for a property tax early 1960s, are too small to accommodate The House Agriculture and Rural rate reduction. students. Development Policy and Finance Committee To be classified as agricultural, the Superintendent Steve Wymore said the approved the bill Feb. 9 and referred it to operation must meet minimum criteria, district faces “overwhelming” challenges in the House Taxes Committee, with the such as 10 acres or more, turn a profit and raising funds on its own. In addition to its understanding that it would come back to be an agricultural pursuit. lack of taxable land, its free and reduced meal the committee if funding for the tax credits There are about 13,000 horse farms in rate for students is at 90 percent. Because comes from the Department of Agriculture’s the state. The typical horse farm is 20 acres, of its financial challenges, the district is budget. according to Krishona Martinson, assistant unlikely to be able to pay back the state “I appreciate the concern, but this was professor and equine extension specialist at funding proposed in the bill, which is in the supposed to be a temporary program. This is a the University of Minnesota. form of a loan. This means the money would good example of when a program becomes an However, a provision in the bill that would effectively amount to a grant for the school

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 3 district. Since 1992, the district has received center funding; and Rep. Dean Urdahl the state, and committee members said the four capital loans from the state for school (R-Grove City) sponsors HF293 for the bill doesn’t address the differences in how construction projects. Annandale facility. immunity laws apply to them. Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Roseville) Not making the cut are: Joel Carlson, representing the Minnesota spoke in support of the bill, saying, “It should • $5.4 million for a fence at the Shakopee Association for Justice, said the bill does not be our top priority in this committee.” women’s prison that was requested by the allow for any operator negligence. He noted Both bills were laid over for possible Corrections Department; that, as a lobbyist, he has seen this bill in some recommendation for bonding bill inclusion. • $3 million for a new emergency opera- form nearly every session since 1999. Sen. Rod Skoe (DFL-Clearbrook) sponsors tions center in Ortonville, that came from The companion, SF1509, sponsored by the companion bills, SF1697 and SF825. HF788, sponsored by Rep. Andrew Falk Sen. (R-Alexandria), awaits Both await action by the Senate Capital (DFL-Murdock); and action by the Senate Judiciary and Public Investment Committee. • $2.5 million to equip an expansion to Safety Committee. — E. Schmidtke the Minnesota Emergency Response and — L. Schutz Industrial Training Center in Marshall, Public safety bonding requests that came from HF2016, sponsored by Dayton pens session’s first vetoes Seven of the 10 bonding requests, totaling Rep. Chris Swedzinski (R-Ghent). Gov. Mark Dayton vetoed a Vetoed more than $85 million, heard by the House Committee members previously said they by series of bills Feb. 10 that Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy want local funding sources secured before the the Republicans say are designed and Finance Committee, received favorable state helps with the Ortonville and Marshall governor to reform civil litigation. recommendations. projects. Dayton said the four bills They were forwarded Feb. 9 to the House — M. Cook “appear to be another political Capital Investment Committee for further ploy as they (Republicans) cater to their rich consideration. and powerful friends at the expense of most The largest request, $29.9 million, would Civil Law Minnesotans. … The real impact would be be to remodel existing space for the intake to reduce the rights of law-abiding citizens unit and construct a new health services and businesses that seek justice from the Proposed Ski Safety Act put on hold unit and loading dock at the St. Cloud wrongdoing of others.” prison. Department of Corrections officials When you clamp on your skis at your He noted in his veto letters his willingness testified that the projects would increase favorite downhill ski area, how much of the to consider changes to the state’s civil laws staff and offender safety, and would reduce sport’s risk are you taking on? that would help businesses and residents the crowded intake and health services areas Rep. Tara Mack (R-Apple Valley) sponsors obtain justice and fair recovery. that are inadequate for the current prison HF1865, tagged as the Minnesota Ski Safety Bill sponsors said the package addressed population. Act. It would clearly lay out the duties and lawsuit abuse and proposed reform designed Also making the cut is $15 million responsibilities of ski area operators and to improve the business and job climate in in department asset preservation and skiers regarding limits of liability. Minnesota. $3.39 million to install a new well, replace The intent of House Civil Law Committee Rep. Pat Mazorol (R-Bloomington) and piping and add a building to house water Chairman Rep. (R-Elbow Sen. Julianne Ortman (R-Chanhassen) treatment equipment at the Stillwater prison. Lake) on Feb. 13 was to move the bill to the sponsor HF770/SF530*/CH121 that would Officials said the changes would reduce water House floor. However, after attorneys on change how interest rates are computed treatment costs and energy consumption. both sides of the issue laid out their cases, before and after judgments. It would have Other projects forwarded are: Westrom asked to lay the bill over to see if lowered the awards from the current 10 • $26 million requested by the Department both sides could find agreement. percent flat rate to a market-driven rate with of Public Safety for construction of a Skiing has changed over the years, and civil a floor of 4 percent. new state emergency operations center immunity laws regarding it need updating, In his veto letter, Dayton said he found it in Arden Hills to replace the facility in Mack said. The bill would model standards “objectionable that the Legislature allowed downtown St. Paul; after those of the American National prejudgment interest for businesses with • $10.3 million to construct a regional 911 Standards Institute. commercial insurance policy claims at 10 communications facility in Hennepin Leigh Nelson, who owns Welch Village, percent, but lowered similar claims for County to replace the current facility that said that in 1965 there were 34 ski areas average citizens to 4 percent.” opened in 1948; in Minnesota, now there are about half In addition to increasing the threshold for • $750,000 for asset preservation and other that number. He said that capital costs and filing a civil action in conciliation court from improvements at the Northeast Regional lawsuits have contributed to their demise. $7,500 to $10,000, HF211/SF149*/CH118, Corrections Center; and Attorney Jeff Lindquist of Minneapolis sponsored by Rep. Doug Wardlow (R-Eagan) • $164,000 for improvements to the said that currently the discretion in lawsuits and Ortman, would have addressed the right Annandale Tactical Training Center. is left to the judge. of appeal in class action suits. Wardlow said The Hennepin County facility comes “What this does is bring much needed this would expedite the process, saving the from HF2038, sponsored by Rep. Phyllis consistency and objectivity to the law,” he state approximately $41,000 annually. Kahn (DFL-Mpls); Rep. Carly Melin (DFL- said. It lays out the inherent risks to skiing. Dayton said the provisions are not Hibbing) sponsors HF1933, the corrections There are four public ski areas operating in consistent with the court’s recommendations

4 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 for effectively addressing small claims. He called it “legislative meddling with court Lends a hand procedures.” He and Ortman also sponsor HF654/ SF373*/CH119 that would have shortened the state’s statute of limitations from six years to four years. Dayton said the legislation would eliminate “important protections for citizens and businesses, when they are harmed by the wrongful actions of others.” Sponsored by Mazorol and Sen. Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson), HF747/SF429*/ CH120 would have provided that when making an award, a judge must take into consideration the reasonableness of the attorney fees sought in relation to the amount of damages awarded to the prevailing party. Dayton’s concern is that the legislation would make “it more difficult for average citizens to defend themselves against powerful interest.” — L. Schutz

Consumers photo by paul battaglia Gov. Mark Dayton shakes hands as he leaves the House Chamber Feb. 15 after delivering his State of the State address to a joint session of the Legislature. The governor called for No shutdowns for lottery, racing cooperation between he and the Legislature, and said putting unemployed Minnesotans If the state ever experiences another back to work must be a top priority. Dayton also urged legislators to pass a bonding bill this month, to vote on a new stadium for the Minnesota Vikings this session and to kick himself government shutdown like the one last and the Legislature out of the State Capitol so much-needed renovations to the 107-year- summer, the Minnesota State Lottery and old building can take place. the Racing Commission might be immune from its impact. That’s the premise of HF2003, sponsored “How many more bills are we going to have Education by Rep. Kelby Woodard (R-Belle Plaine). that carve out different parts of government The House Government Operations and and put them on continuing resolutions, Elections Committee approved the bill putting them on autopilot?” said Rep. Mike Education bonding proposals Feb. 14 and sent it to the House State Nelson (DFL-Brooklyn Park). Building, preserving and demolishing Government Finance Committee. There is Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL-Mpls) asked facilities was the topic of the day for the no Senate companion. whether Woodard thinks the same should House Education Finance Committee on Woodard argues there’s no sense in be done for all of state government. Feb. 8 when education administrators and shutting down operations that make money “It’s an important question,” Woodard elected officials brought forward more than for the state — especially when they’re replied. “In some circumstances — this $60 million in bonding proposals. funded through special revenue streams being one — the Legislature needs to take a Each described the need for repairs and that have no real bearing on the Legislature’s proactive approach.” renovations at various schools and libraries political disagreements over the budget. Another state entity — the Gambling across the state. All proposals were held over “These horse tracks and the related Control Board — might be added to the for possible bonding bill inclusion. industries to them employ thousands of bill at its next committee stop. Rep. Mike Pam Paulson, senior policy director at the Minnesotans and provide revenue to the Beard (R-Shakopee) said that much like Perpich Center for Arts Education, was one state, even when the state is in a government the other two agencies, the board operates of many testifiers. She said, “We are charged shutdown,” Woodard said. autonomously and would like to be included to be innovative. We are charged to be on the Opponents asked whether it was fair to in the bill. cutting edge. … And we are now behind.” single out specific agencies for protection — N. Busse The committee heard arguments against a shutdown — or conversely, why the supporting the following six bills: Legislature shouldn’t simply let all agencies Watch for House Public Information Services • HF1778 seeks a $20 million cooperative and programs continue in the event of a updates at facilities grant for the United South Central shutdown. www.twitter.com/MNHouseInfo district. Administrators say their current

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 5 building is aging and inadequate for the Charters allowed referendum revenue Woodard explained that his bill would student population. The bill is sponsored Charter schools are currently financed create a more equal approach to education by Rep. Tony Cornish (R-Vernon Center). in the same way as public schools, with the funding. Sen. (R-Fairmont) sponsored exception of referendum revenue, which “When we say we’re doing this per pupil its Senate companion, SF1693, which charter schools do not receive. for education purposes, for public school awaits action by the Senate Capital HF1860, sponsored by Rep. Kelby students, that really isn’t a fair statement,” Investment Committee. Woodard (R-Belle Plaine), proposes that he said. • HF1794, sponsored by Rep. Patti Fritz referendum revenue be transferred in an Other committee members expressed (DFL-Faribault), seeks $10.5 million for equal amount for each student that attends hesitancy to support the bill. Rep. Mindy asset preservation, building demolition, a charter school in his or her resident school Greiling (DFL-Roseville) said she was parking lot creation, student housing and district. This increase for charter schools’ concerned that special education services a technology center at the Minnesota general education aid would be offset by a public schools provide will lose funding. State Academies for the Deaf and Blind. corresponding decrease in the resident school “I haven’t had an e-mail that I can recall, Its companion bill SF1640, sponsored by districts’ general education aid. This would honestly, that says ‘Please support this,’” said Sen. Mike Parry (R-Waseca), awaits action affect Minnesota schools beginning in fiscal Rep. John Ward (DFL-Brainerd). by the Senate Capital Investment Com- year 2014. — E. Schmidtke mittee. Gov. Mark Dayton recommended Initially heard Jan. 24 by the House $7.6 million for this project in his bonding Education Finance Committee, members of Digital learning requirement request. the committee again discussed the bill Feb. Adding to language arts, math, physical • HF1851 seeks $2 million to fund library 15, including adopting an amendment that education and social studies, districts may accessibility and improvement grants would only apply this bill to future levies soon find they must include a digital class as that would aid in renovation projects for that fund schools, not standing levies. No a required course for students. various community libraries throughout action was taken on the bill. It has no Senate The House Education Reform Committee the state. The bill’s, sponsored by Rep. companion. approved HF2127 on Feb. 14, sponsored Carol McFarlane (R-White Bear Lake). Its During previous meetings, charter school by Rep. Pam Myhra (R-Burnsville), which Senate companion, SF1867, is sponsored officials spoke in favor of the bill, arguing would make it mandatory that high school by Sen. John Carlson (R-Bemidji). that their students are being punished for students receive at least one digital course • HF1997, sponsored by Rep. Greg Davids exercising their right to choose which school credit before graduation. Schools would need (R-Preston), seeks $20 million to build they attend. to engage students with a “blended learning” a prekindergarten-12 facility in the Testifiers from public schools approach, which uses technology to teach a Rushford-Peterson school district. A 2007 disagreed, saying that the bill would subject. Requirements for students would flood extensively damaged the current take away much-needed funds that pay be effective for those starting ninth grade in century-old building. The companion, for services only public schools provide. 2012. SF1602, is sponsored by Sen. Jeremy Miller (R-Winona). • HF2001 seeks $7 million for Northeast Logo revealed Metro No. 916, an intermediate district that serves metro area school districts. The grant would help build a kindergarten-8 school designed to serve the district’s Level IV special education students. McFarlane sponsors this bill. Its Senate companion, SF1666, is sponsored by Sen. Pam Wolf (R-Spring Lake Park). • HF2106, sponsored by Rep. Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley), seeks $1.4 million in capital improvements at the Perpich Center for Arts Education in Golden Val- ley. This is another project Dayton has rec- ommended, who supported the $263,000 outlined in the original version of the bill. The companion, SF1827, is sponsored by Sen. (DFL-St. Louis Park). All Senate companions await action in the Senate Capitol Investment Committee. — E. Schmidtke photo by andrew vonbank Rep. Dean Urdahl, right, unveils the Civil War Commemoration Task Force logo contest winning design during a Feb. 14 press conference. The logo, created by Michael Campbell, of Chanhassen, left, will serve as the official symbol of the war’s 150th anniversary.

6 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 Bill backers believe it lends innovation Floods impact school calendar successfully offered by Petersen. Changes to traditional brick-and-mortar education. Neighborhoods turn into islands during to the bill include pushing back the bill’s Christy Hovanetz, senior policy fellow at the annual flooding of the Red River in effective date and a requiring that teacher the Foundation for Excellence in Education, northwestern Minnesota. evaluations be designated as private, explained that technology makes education The flooding can impact the school individual information. customizable for both students and teachers. calendar, forcing teachers to keep students Rep. Kory Kath (DFL-Owatonna) “When students can learn in their style in the classroom into the summer to ensure proposed, then withdrew, an amendment — at their own pace — all students will they stay on schedule. that would mandate negotiations between achieve,” she said. Sponsored by Rep. Kent Eken (DFL- teachers and local school boards in special Rep. Bob Barrett (R-Shafer) said he has Twin Valley), HF1542 would allow districts cases, creating an exception to the bill. seen the positive effects of online classes, to begin classes prior to Labor Day, as a Kath highlighted language immersion and which are currently intended to be a second countermeasure to the days they lose in the Montessori teachers as examples, whom he option for students who have trouble spring, due to flooding. said need to be considered differently for succeeding in a more mainstream setting. It was approved Feb. 9 by the House layoffs because they meet a unique need in Critics of the bill worry that not all Education Reform Committee and sent to schools. districts have the resources to add and the House floor. It has no Senate companion. Rep. John Benson (DFL-Minnetonka) manage digital courses. They argued that Current statute does not permit schools was one of several members who argued for those that have the staff and funds are already to begin the academic year before Labor Day a compromise, saying, “There’s a constant taking steps to make digital learning a part unless they meet specific requirements. notion, it seems, that the Legislature knows of their curriculums. In a letter to legislators, Norman County all and that local committees, local school Rep. Kim Norton (DFL-Rochester) said, West Superintendent Ollen Church wrote, boards and citizens-elect somehow can’t “We always talk about letting the market do “Our problem in the spring is, we simply can’t quite be trusted.” its thing. I think this is an example where get our kids into school.” Through this bill, “Quality-blind layoffs, seniority-based you’re trying to force something that’s he hopes to start school a week before Labor layoffs are incompatible with a system that already happening and create an additional Day, so the district has days in reserve to places student achievement first,” Petersen mandate.” cancel school during the year due to flooding. countered. The bill next goes to the House Education Before the vote, Rep. Kim Norton (DFL- — E. Schmidtke Finance Committee. Rochester) added, “At some point, this policy The Senate companion, SF1528, committee needs to acknowledge that local League rules could ease is sponsored by Sen. control is needed for every dang school district High schools around the state depend on (R-Rochester). It awaits action by the Senate in this state to decide when they want to start the Minnesota State High School League Finance Committee. their schools, before or after Labor Day.” (MSHSL). The organization provides — E. Schmidtke — E. Schmidtke opportunities for schools’ fine arts and athletic teams to compete in conferences, or Childhood eye screenings Teacher layoff debate continues designated groups, with other schools. School districts are required to hold early Minnesota teachers could see seniority- Sometimes, it’s not always easy for high childhood development screenings for only based layoffs end. schools to have access to the resources that children who are nearing school age. This HF1870, sponsored by Rep. Branden MSHSL provides. That may change. helps the schools identify children who Petersen (R-Andover), proposes that school Currently, if a high school needs to join could benefit from district or community administrators examine teacher evaluations a conference, it must spend 180 days on its resources. when making a decision to demote or own as part of a “good faith” effort to become Rep. Sondra Erickson (R-Princeton) discharge a teacher, or place him or her on part of one before MSHSL steps in to assist intends to take the current screening a an unrequested leave of absence. it. Educators and league officials say that’s step further with HF300. It would require Approved Feb. 9 by the House Education too long. districts to share information about vision Reform Committee, the bill awaits action Rep. Paul Anderson (R-Starbuck) screenings with parents. The bill explains by the full House. Its companion, SF1690, sponsored a bill that intends to ease the the benefits that stem from vision testing sponsored by Sen. Pam Wolf (R-Spring Lake process. HF1585 would shorten the waiting and states that the testing is not a substitute Park), awaits action by the Senate Education period to 90 days. Anderson said that for a comprehensive eye exam. Committee. difference might seem simple, but to schools, The measure was passed 133-0 by the Supporters argue that HF1870 will add those 90 days matter. House Feb. 13 and now goes to the Senate fairness to layoff practices and increase During a Jan. 26 meeting of the House where Sen. (R-Eden Prairie) is the quality of teachers in the classroom. Education Reform Committee, where the sponsor. Opponents claim that legislators are members reviewed the bill, Anderson said, During a Jan. 26 meeting of the House addressing the issue without considering “The reason the length of time is significant Education Reform Committee, Erickson current layoff policies. They urged the is because a lot of conferences will schedule said, “We have to be in the business of letting committee to value the experience that more tournaments up to a year in advance.” He parents know what is available out there. … seasoned teachers offer. cited a school in Melrose, which is part of If it helps one child, we must do so.” Committee members debated a variety his district, as an example. The high school — E. Schmidtke of amendments to the bill, including six missed a registration deadline and was forced

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 7 to travel to Wisconsin and International children,” she said. Unions, employers debate contracts Falls so their football team could find Sen. Dave Thompson (R-Lakeville) Public employees would be unable to competitors. sponsors the companion, SF1302. It awaits receive any automatic pay or health benefit The bill came with the support of MSHSL action by the Senate Education Committee. increases in between union contracts, under and passed easily on the House floor with a — E. Schmidtke a bill that won committee approval. vote of 133-0. Its companion bill, SF1322, is Rep. Steve Drazkowski (R-Mazeppa) sponsored by Sen. Joe Gimse (R-Willmar). Teachers-to-be need the basic skills sponsors HF1974 that would change the It awaits action in the Senate Education State law currently allows those who have way public-sector contracts continue in Committee. completed a teacher preparation program to effect after they’ve expired. It provides that — E. Schmidtke receive up to three one-year licenses without while unions are negotiating new contracts, passing a basic skills exam. On Feb. 13, their members would be ineligible for pay or Schools could get own grading system the House passed a bill that would require benefit increases, regardless of the terms of Minnesota school districts could soon teaching candidates to produce a passing the previous contracts. find themselves receiving a grade from the score on the exam before obtaining a license In addition, public employers would be commissioner of education. in Minnesota. The vote was 132-0. unable to enter into a contract that provides The House Education Finance Rep. Andrea Kieffer (R-Woodbury), any retroactive pay or benefit increases. Committee discussed a bill Feb. 15 that the sponsor of HF1770, is concerned that So, too, would arbiters be unable to award would establish a grading system, from A teachers are instructing children while being any retroactive increases, under the bill’s to F, which would evaluate schools based potentially unable to pass the basic skills provisions. on student achievement. Rep. Pam Myhra test themselves. She believes the bill will The House Government Operations and (R-Burnsville) sponsors the bill, HF638, increase the quality and rigor of teachers in Elections Committee approved the bill on which was laid over for further review. Minnesota. a 8-5 party-line vote Feb. 15. It now goes Students’ proficiency and improvement Rep. Mark Buesgens (R-Savage) to the House State Government Finance on standardized tests, as well as growth unsuccessfully offered an amendment that Committee. in reading and math assessments would would require teacher candidates to pass Supporters include Grace Keliher, director determine a school’s grade. For high schools, the exam before entering a teacher training of governmental relations for the Minnesota the grade would also account for SAT and program in college. School Boards Association. She said school ACT scores and participation in advanced Buesgens worries that unqualified students districts have been told by arbitrators on programs like postsecondary enrollment are allowed admittance to these training at least 12 occasions that school employees options or AP courses. Evaluations would programs. He explained that, if they fail the are entitled to automatic “step” and “lane” begin this school year. skills test after graduating, they will not have increases even though no contract is currently These grades would have consequences. the opportunity to work as teachers, which in effect. Schools that receive a D or F must develop will hamper their ability to pay off massive “School boards are left with a very and implement a process for improvement. student loans. unbalanced table when we’re negotiating Schools that receive an A, improve one Buesgens said, “What we are doing to the contracts,” Keliher said. letter grade or improve two in the previous young men and young women of this country League of Minnesota Cities Human two school years are eligible for a school is the next great financial crisis, after the Resources Director Laura Kushner said recognition award of $100 per enrollee. mortgage crisis, to hit this country. … Shame this situation puts public employers at That money could be used to pay for staff or on us for allowing a system like that.” a disadvantage during lengthy contract educational materials. Supporters of the bill disagreed, saying that negotiations. Christy Hovanetz, a senior policy fellow at teacher candidates still have much to learn “There is no incentive for a union to the Foundation for Excellence in Education, before they enter their degree programs. They bargain on issues when the contract just testified in support of the bill. She cited believe it would be too difficult for students keeps moving forward,” Kushner said. a similar grading system in Florida as an to pass the test without the education a Representatives from the unions said the example of successful school evaluations. teacher program provides. bill would tilt contract negotiations against Hovanetz said, “If we believe all students Rep. Carlos Mariani (DFL-St. Paul) them. can learn, we should hold schools accountable compared teacher degree programs to Brian Rice, a lobbyist representing the for their academic success.” another profession. “A good analogy here Minneapolis police and firefighter unions, Some committee members voiced concerns. would be requiring aspiring doctors to pass said the bill would “create chaos” by letting Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Roseville) said, their medical boards in order to get into employers stall out contract negotiations “I’m very much of the mind that just labeling medical school. Why would we do that?” knowing that the unions have no recourse. schools, labeling teachers, labeling students, The bill now awaits action on the Senate He described the bill as “very, very radical.” and if you don’t do anything about it, it floor. Sen. Ted Daley (R-Eagan) is the Eliot Seide, executive director of AFSCME doesn’t amount to a hill of beans.” sponsor. Council 5, said the bill’s proponents are Myhra emphasized the urgency for the bill, — E. Schmidtke being misleading. If employers want to write comparing problems in schools to cancer. into contracts that pay and benefit increases “Cancer, left undiagnosed and untreated, won’t continue after expiration, he said they If you have Internet access, visit the Legislature’s leads to death. And failure leads to death of EmploymentWeb page at: www.leg.mn already have the ability to do that. opportunity and hope and the future of our “What they’re trying to do here is change

8 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 In addition, the bill would establish an Leaders meet oversight process to provide for reviews of each government agency’s use of forward pricing mechanisms. Some committee members expressed concern about the review process, and about whether the bill would encourage small governmental units to try their hand at a process they don’t fully comprehend. “I’m just worried a little bit that we’re going to end up with a proliferation of these programs out there with people who aren’t really good at doing it,” said Rep. Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley). At Winkler’s suggestion, Downey successfully amended the bill to specify that the Office of the State Auditor is responsible for developing the review process. Downey said he is open to other suggestions on tightening the bill’s oversight provisions. — N. Busse

Env. & Natural Resources

Options to combat invasive species State spending to combat aquatic invasive species in fiscal year 2013 is expected to increase 18.5 percent to $8.6 million. photo by paul battaglia Sponsored by Rep. Denny McNamara House Speaker Kurt Zellers and Senate Majority Leader David Senjem confer at the Speaker’s (R-Hastings), HF2153 includes a 21-day Desk during the Feb. 13 floor session. waiting period before placing a boat lift, dock or swim raft from one body of water into another; doubling civil penalties for the balance of power from an equal playing Finance Committee. A companion, SF1918, continued violations of invasive species laws; field to a field that is no longer equal,” Seide sponsored by Sen. and establishing a certification program to said. (R-Lino Lakes), awaits action by the Senate train inspectors to prevent the spread of — N. Busse State Government Innovation and Veterans aquatic species by July 1, 2015. Committee. The House Environment, Energy and Under current law, the ability to buy or sell Natural Resources Policy and Finance Energy future quantities of energy at a fixed price Committee heard the long-term options for is granted specifically to the University of fighting aquatic invasive species from the Minnesota and the Metropolitan Council. Buying energy futures Department of Natural Resources. No action Although nothing technically prevents The University of Minnesota has saved was taken on the bill. other governments and agencies from doing millions of dollars by pre-purchasing its A companion, SF1839, sponsored by Sen. it, Downey said many are reluctant to do so natural gas and other energy needs by way Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria), awaits without explicit permission. of futures contracts. Soon, state agencies and action by the Senate Environment and Mike Berthelsen, the university’s associate local governments might be doing the same. Natural Resources Committee. vice president of facilities management, said That’s the idea behind HF560, sponsored DNR estimates to combat invasive species buying energy contracts mitigates the impact by Rep. Keith Downey (R-Edina). The bill as zebra mussels and Eurasian milfoil range of marketplace volatility on the university’s would expand the use of so-called “forward from $8 million to $11 million annually budget. In addition, he said the university pricing mechanisms” for fuel and other for boat self-inspection, to a $550 million saved roughly $27.6 million on its natural energy purchases to all government entities to $600 million program for required boat gas purchases alone from 2002 to 2009. in the state. inspections at all public and private accesses. “You’re paying for price certainty, and The House State Government Finance “These numbers are staggering,” said Rep. you hope over the long term, like any good Committee approved the bill Feb. 9 and Paul Anderson (R-Starbuck). Costs would investment strategy that … you will win referred it to the House Environment, largely be recouped by per-boat surcharges financially as well,” Berthelsen said. Energy and Natural Resources Policy and ranging from $40 for the least expensive

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 9 solutions to $2,300 for required inspections. (R-Grove City) said the bill is expected to Cloud), chairman of the House Health and “With invasive species there are no silver be heard later in session. Human Services Reform Committee. Child bullets – you just don’t stop them in their Rep. Denny McNamara (R-Hastings) care providers said in committee that if such tracks,” said Steve Hirsch, DNR director of sponsors HF2086, which contains dues eventually become compulsory, some ecological and water resources. $99.7 million in funding, including providers would stop taking subsidized low- — B. Geiger $31.1 million for wetlands; $24.6 million income families. for prairie preservation; $24.1 million for The bill now goes to the Senate, where Sen. Permit professionals bill advances habitats; $17.3 million for forests; and Ted Lillie (R-Lake Elmo) is the sponsor. Permit applicant professionals could funding to fight aquatic invasive species. — S. Hegarty become part of the environmental project “This is really an important bill,” review process after the House Environment, McNamara said. Essential health benefits criticized Energy and Natural Resources Policy and Legislators were concerned about With less than two years before individuals Finance Committee approved HF2095 on the structure of a proposed $14 million and employers choose new coverage plans as Feb. 15. Mississippi River Northwoods Habitat directed by the federal Affordable Care Act, Sponsored by Rep. Dan Fabian (R-Roseau), Complex Protection land purchase from legislators are trying to wade through how the bill also would allow companies to hire Crow Wing County. new required services will impact health care independent permit applicant professionals to The deal, which avoids payment-in-lieu- costs. help oversee projects and require state officials of-taxes (PILT), raised questions from One step along the process is creating packages to identify permit deficiencies within 30 days. several legislators because the land would be that include a list of 10 essential health benefits. DFLers objected to the bill because it could donated back to Crow Wing County after These EHBs must include: ambulatory patient dramatically increase the amount of work for the purchase. services; emergency services; hospitalization; state officials. If passed, Pollution Control Rep. David Dill (DFL-Crane Lake) said, maternity and newborn care; mental health Agency officials would have to identify all “It seems we’re getting more and more and substance abuse treatment; prescription faults in a permit application in 30 days – creative on how to avoid paying PILT.” drugs; habilitative and rehabilitative services even if it is a complicated application that The companion, SF1632, is sponsored by and devices; laboratory services; preventive took years to develop. Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria). It awaits and wellness services, including chronic disease Permit applicant professions would need action in the Senate Finance Committee. management; and pediatric care that includes to be licensed as an engineer by the state and — B. Geiger oral and vision care. Many current coverage have at least 10 years of experience in the type policies don’t include pediatric oral and vision of permit that he or she is helping draft. care services. Rep. Denny McNamara (R-Hastings), Health & Human Services Dr. James Golden, Department of Human said legislators are “naïve” if they think state Services’ deputy assistant commissioner, agencies can’t use help from the private told the House Health and Human Services sector. Childcare payment for dues passes Reform Committee Feb. 8 that Minnesota Rep. Kate Knuth (DFL-New Brighton) The House passed a bill Feb. 9 that would will be expected to adopt a “benchmark plan” noted that applications could be incomplete prevent union deductions from state child that would serve as a floor for health care and that state employees would then have care assistance payments. coverage. If a state chooses not to select one to spend time and money pointing out the HF1766, sponsored by Rep. Kathy Lohmer of four federal benchmark health plans, the shortcomings. (R-Lake Elmo), was passed 74-55 after a brief state’s benchmark plan will become the largest “Is the permit applicant professional’s debate over when potential union dues would plan by enrollment in the largest product duty to the people of Minnesota or making be paid by child care providers who may within the state’s small group market. sure the business that hired them doesn’t get want to join a union. Child care providers Amy Monahan, a University of Minnesota sued?” she said. support the bill, saying they could opt for Law School associate professor, said the The bill now advances to the House direct payment of dues from their business benchmark package should cover the Jobs and Economic Development Finance checking accounts rather than garnishing 10 categories, but not every service available Committee. A companion, SF1567, their state reimbursement checks. within each category is required coverage. sponsored by Sen. Bill Ingebrigtsen “No one testified against the bill,” Lohmer Monahan was one of 18 people nationally (R-Alexandria), awaits action by the Senate said. “This money belongs to providers and who studied and developed policy, criteria and Finance Committee. they should do with it what they want.” methods for defining and updating the EHB. — B. Geiger Minnesota does not currently have a child The initial package should be developed care union, but Gov. Mark Dayton signed an with cost targets, such as a national average Outdoor Heritage bill laid over executive order last November calling for an premium, she said. Think of grocery shopping. Questions over the structure of a election. However, the vote was stalled when Rather than going down the aisles and $14 million land acquisition near Brainerd a Ramsey County judge issued a temporary putting products in your cart, only to find has delayed the potential approval of almost restraining order. out you can’t afford to pay the total amount $100 million in Outdoor Heritage funding. DFL lawmakers said the bill is a solution at checkout, “It would be better to shop with The House Legacy Funding Division voted to a problem that doesn’t yet exist. a budget,” and selectively make tradeoffs, as to lay the bill over for further consideration. “This is about union power and union difficult as those choices might be, she said. Division Chairman Rep. Dean Urdahl financing,” said Rep. Steve Gottwalt (R-St. Republican committee members were

10 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 critical of the federal EHB process, which is proposed in a Dec. 16, 2011, Essential Health Benefits Bulletin published by the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight. “This is an unproven experiment with no guarantee of medical results,” said Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen (R-Glencoe). Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL-Rochester) said although she is not “totally sold,” the federal Affordable Care Act is the future of health care; a lot of other countries successfully offer government-run health care. Rep. (R-Big Lake) replied, “Be careful about other countries as role models. Many of them are going bankrupt.” — S. Hegarty

Sex offender discharge reviewed Clarence Opheim, a convicted sex offender who was civilly committed to the Minnesota photo by andrew vonbank Sex Offender Program, has been granted a From left, Dennis Benson, executive director of the Minnesota Sex Offender Program; Human Services provisional discharge by the courts. Commissioner Lucinda Jesson; and George Widseth, a prosecutor in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, provide a provisional discharge process review before the House Health and Human Services Why decision-makers supported Opheim’s Reform Committee Feb. 15. provisional discharge was the topic of a House Health and Human Services Reform difficult decisions. In light of the afore- leveraged federal funds to pay for state health Committee hearing Feb. 15. mentioned litigation, my administration care costs. He also alleges that a $30 million Human Services Commissioner Lucinda does not have that option.” “donation” from UCare, a non-profit health Jesson explained the difference between being However, committee members shared a care provider for contracted state programs, “released” and a “provisional discharge,” which concern that a provisional release “outside was used to help balance the state budget. will require Opheim to move to a halfway the razor wire” does not require residents The donation was essentially a refund house where he’ll have round-the-clock GPS in the community where the offender will for overpayment of Medical Assistance monitoring; require an escort if he leaves the live to be notified. That’s a policy issue the payments and should have been split with house; and be required to submit to urinalysis, committee should consider, said Rep. Duane the federal government, he said. polygraphs and outpatient treatment. In all, Quam (R-Byron). DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson there are 32 conditions he must follow. He Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen (R-Glencoe) said defended UCare’s “donation.” likely will remain under these provisions stronger laws are necessary to stop “feeding “To be a repayment, you’d have to ask for for his lifetime, unless he seeks and receives people into this program.” He suggested it.” another hearing and is subsequently awarded locking the worst sex offenders behind bars She said she could not find anything in the a full release by the courts. That’s not likely, with no chance of parole or instituting the contracts to warrant HMOs legal obligation according to Hennepin County Prosecutor death penalty. to refund DHS for excess revenues. George Widseth. — S. Hegarty A federal investigation of DHS resulted. Jesson supported Opheim’s provisional Jesson has implemented several changes to discharge after extensive consultation and Health care transparency focus previous practices in question. Legislators are review of the facts, she said. Some committee Amid allegations of fraud within the also planning to introduce bills that would members asked whether Jesson’s support was Department of Human Services in 2010 and address issues raised by Feinwacht. politically motivated, in light of a complaint the resulting demand for more transparency “There is legislation already jacketed. I think filed in federal district court by clients at in public health care costs and payments, the we will see substance coming away from the Moose Lake sex offender treatment House Health and Human Services Finance this session,” promised Rep. Steve Gottwalt facility. The plaintiffs allege that conditions and Reform committees held a joint hearing (R-St. Cloud), chairman of the reform of their confinement are a disincentive to Feb. 14. No action was taken. committee. participating in treatment. Jesson denied any Public healthcare is nearly a $7 billion Some of the issues that legislators want to political motivation. biennial cost to state taxpayers. address include: “For now, the law on the books must be Dave Feinwach, former general counsel • setting limits on HMO’s risk management followed,” Gov. Mark Dayton wrote in a for the Minnesota Hospital Association reserves; Feb. 8 letter to House Republican leaders. who was fired after raising DHS impropriety • providing better analytic tools to drive “The previous administration was able allegations, showed a series of emails, down administrative costs; and to keep all of these individuals confined depositions and other handouts to support • determining why overpayment occurs. indefinitely and avoid these extremely his theory that a DHS employee improperly “Let’s think not just where we are, where

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 11 we’ve been, but where we want to go,” Jesson said. She didn’t believe there was fraud but Day on the hill did think there was room to better negotiate contracted rates and to leverage more federal healthcare dollars. She added a department of inspector general, negotiated caps on 2011 HMO contracts and made them enter into a competitive bid process s public healthcare providers. “We’ve made a fundamental shift in the way we do business with health plans, but we’re not done,” Jesson said. Geoff Bartsh, vice president of public policy and government relations at Medica, said HMOs are required to provide data at both the state and federal levels and are routinely audited, but there is room for more efficiency among the reporting agencies. — S. Hegarty

photo by paul battaglia Housing Keith Christofferson of Brooklyn Center and Pam Thomas of Minneapolis have front-row seats during the Mental Health Day on the Hill rally in the Capitol Rotunda Feb. 14. The rally, sponsored by the Mental Health Legislative Network, a coalition of about 20 Minnesota Subsidized renters fees mental health organizations, was part of the day’s activity where supporters spoke to Those renting under a federally subsidized legislators about the importance of mental health funding. program would see their interest rate on late fees come down from the current 8 percent to correspond with the federal standard, under populations of more than 2,500 to publish lawmakers are trying to reduce them. They a bill approved 133-0 by the House Feb. 13. a concise breakdown of their revenues and also said having a single set of reporting HF1515 would take care of an “inadvertent expenditures. He envisions a one- or two- requirements ignored the fact that different oversight when state statutes were updated in page document that embodies a “citizen- communities have different needs and 2010,” according to the bill’s sponsor, Rep. centric” view of budgeting. unique ways of doing things. Mary Liz Holberg (R-Lakeville). “Citizens, I think, really struggle to “It’s not a proper comparison; it’s not going The bill would allow landlords operating understand what is driving their property tax to tell the whole story,” said Susan Iverson, a lease under a federally subsidized tenancy increases,” Downey said. “Budget documents finance and administrative services director program to charge late fees, but on a schedule that are produced by local governments tend for the City of Arden Hills. consistent with that of federal guidelines. to be … largely unintelligible to the average Scott County Auditor-Treasurer Cindy It would also delay the effective dates on citizen.” Geis said the information required by the bill provisions related to tenant evictions in a The House Government Operations and wouldn’t provide enough context for residents foreclosed property from Jan. 1, 2013, to Jan. Elections Committee approved the bill to understand where their tax dollars are going 1, 2015. Feb. 14. and what they’re getting for them. The bill now goes to the Senate where Under the bill’s provisions, the affected Approved on an 8-6 party-line vote, the bill Sen. Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson) is the local governments would have to publish four now moves to the House State Government sponsor. years’ worth of budget information broken Finance Committee. Sen. Ted Daley — L. Schutz down by “function” (i.e. public works, public (R-Eagan) sponsors the companion, SF1741, safety, general administration) and “object which awaits action by the Senate Local code” (i.e. salaries, benefits, capital costs, debt Government and Elections Committee. Local Government service, etc.). — N. Busse Supporters include Paul Reinke, a real estate developer and Oakdale city Making budgets less confusing councilman who said the bill would help Military & Vet. Affairs If you were to ask your city or county citizens engage in a more meaningful way for an explanation of how they spend your with their local governments. tax dollars, they might hand you a 300- or “This data is already in the city financial Expanded program approved 400-page budget document. Rep. Keith systems, and this is about organizing it in a A broader spectrum of veteran-owned Downey (R-Edina) thinks that’s too much different manner,” Reinke said. construction firms would be able to bid on information for the average citizen. Opponents said the bill would create a state road projects and receive up to a 6 percent Downey sponsors HF1954 that new unfunded mandate at a time when bid preference under a bill approved Feb. 13 would require counties and cities with by the House Veterans Services Division.

12 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 Sponsored by Rep. Bob Dettmer (R-Forest Veterans Legislative Council of Minnesota. said Rep. Debra Hilstrom (DFL-Brooklyn Lake), HF1821 would allow veteran-owned The bill was referred to the House Taxes Center). professional and technical firms to participate Committee. Sen. John Carlson (R-Bemidji) — M. Cook in the program, in addition to construction sponsors SF1643, a companion bill awaiting laborers. The bill, as amended, now moves action by the Senate State Government Reporting benefit card fraud to the House Transportation Policy and Innovation and Veterans Committee. Electronic benefit transfer cards are Finance Committee. The division also approved and sent to designed to help people in financial distress Representatives of the Association of the the tax committee HF1820, sponsored by meet their everyday needs, but there is United Veterans Legislative Caucus and Dettmer, which would raise the income concern abuse could be happening. the Department of Transportation spoke in tax credit eligibility from those who earn Sponsored by Rep. Sarah Anderson favor of the bill. less than $37,500 to $45,000. However, (R-Plymouth), HF1956 would require a “We’ve been working on this bill for the credit would be incrementally reduced, peace officer to report to their department several years,” said Ralph Donais, UVLC adjusting for the rise in gross income level every time they arrest someone who chairman. “The current bill, in the format until the maximum was met. Sen. Jeremy possesses multiple EBT cards. The that we have it in now … opens the whole Miller (R-Winona) sponsors SF1794, a Department of Human Services must then job to the veterans. It used to say the veteran companion bill awaiting action by the Senate be notified and can use the information gets to put gravel down and concrete over it. Taxes Committee. when assessing the person’s continued Now it opens it up to design, drafting, all the — S. Hegarty benefit eligibility. different phases of a job.” “It’s about making sure that we maintain A report to the Legislature would be due the program integrity,” Anderson said. by Feb. 1 every other year regarding the Public Safety “This is just an attempt to make sure that biennial number and amount of contracts we are not operating in silos, but instead offered under the program. Counties also communicating with one another so we Motor vehicle tampering penalty would have the ability to offer the program. make sure that fraud is not being committed Sen. Al DeKruif (R-Madison Lake) For offenders who repeatedly tamper and that the precious resources that we have sponsors SF1597, a companion bill which with motor vehicles or commit related can be dedicated to those individuals that was also approved Feb. 13 as amended by the offenses, the penalty is worth the risk. need the help.” Senate State Government Innovation and That was the message Duluth Police The illb was approved by the House Public Veterans Committee and sent to the Senate Chief Gordon Ramsay shared Feb. 9 with Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and Transportation Committee. the House Judiciary Policy and Finance Finance Committee on a split-voice vote Committee. — S. Hegarty and sent to the House Health and Human He spoke in support of HF1043, which Services Reform Committee. Division approves more tax credits would establish a gross misdemeanor penalty We don’t really know how much The number of military retirees eligible to for those who have been previously convicted this occurs, but we want to work more receive individual income tax credits would or adjudicated delinquent at least two other collaboratively with local law enforcement expand under a bill approved by the House times for motor vehicle tampering, vehicle and attorneys’ offices, said Jerry Kerber, Veterans Services Division Feb. 13. theft, receiving stolen property, possession of head of the department’s Office of Inspector Current law grants military retirees with burglary or theft tools or criminal damage to General. at least 20 years of service or who are 100 property. Rep. Kurt Daudt (R-Crown) said a jailer percent totally and permanently disabled Sponsored by Rep. Kerry Gauthier (DFL- told him this is a problem. “He indicated that up to a $750 individual income tax credit. Duluth), the committee approved the bill almost everybody that comes into the jail has Sponsored by Rep. Bob Dettmer (R-Forest and sent it to the House floor. A companion, multiple EBT cards. He’s been experiencing Lake), HF1452 would also allow veterans SF948, sponsored by Sen. John Harrington a problem where he reports it to his superiors to qualify if they are medically discharged (DFL-St. Paul), awaits action by the Senate and nothing ever happens.” with fewer than 20 years of service and if Judiciary and Public Safety Committee. Rep. Rena Moran (DFL-St. Paul) expressed they qualify for a military pension. Under current law, unless there is an concern about how this could affect a Due to the downsizing of the U.S. military, aggravating factor — such as damage or recipient who, for example, gives their card some veterans are forced to retire prior to theft over a certain amount — it’s only to someone else who happens to be going to 20 years of service. So, those who receive a misdemeanor to break into someone’s the supermarket and asks them to pick up a a pension under the operative military vehicle. Ramsay said that means the cops few things. “There could be many reasons reduction order would also qualify for the write a ticket for motor vehicle tampering why a person could possess more than one tax credit. Spouses of deceased veterans and the offender is released. card,” she said. who receive a military pension under the “We have had individuals do auto A companion, SF1598, sponsored by Sen. Survivor Benefit Payment program would burglaries up to 40 times and face the same Scott Newman (R-Hutchinson), awaits also be eligible. The credit would be effective misdemeanor consequence,” Ramsay said. action by the Senate Judiciary and Public beginning with the 2012 tax year. “This is probably the most common property Safety Committee. crime of residences throughout the state.” About 1,100 of the 14,000 military — M. Cook retirees may qualify for the credit, according “Merely pulling on the door handle is not to Ralph Donais, chairman of the United enough to be tampering, so it really is taking an additional step to get into the vehicle,” February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 13 Seeking to demonstrate silencers “Fiscal notes are only advisory, and you can Chris Stafford has a problem. The federally State Government disregard them,” Nobles said. “But I would licensed firearm dealer in Stewartville can hope that’s not the road we go down.” sell silencers; however, state law prohibits Auditor: fiscal notes not perfect — N. Busse him from having the item on hand to The fiscal notes on which lawmakers rely demonstrate its capability. for estimating the cost of proposed legislation Trash debate raises stink “For us, as manufacturers, to sell a product aren’t always transparent and reliable, a new An argument over who should collect in the state of Minnesota we have to be report finds. garbage in the Capitol Complex opened really good salespeople because they have to Fiscal notes are documents produced up a much bigger debate over whether state take our word on that product,” he said. “It by state agencies to estimate the financial agencies should be allowed to outsource state handicaps me in my trade.” impact of bills before the Legislature. Since jobs. Sponsored by Rep. Mike Benson 1974, they have played a key role in the House Government Operations and (R-Rochester), HF1816 would allow federally legislative process. Elections Committee members took up licensed dealers, manufacturers or importers In its new report, the Office of the HF1812, a bill that would allow the to possess firearm silencers for the purpose Legislative Auditor finds that while Department of Administration to outsource of selling them for authorized activities. most fiscal notes are based on “plausible trash and recycling collection duties in the Under current state statute, the possession assumptions,” many lack transparency. A State Capitol area. The committee approved and use of firearm silencers is prohibited, minority have also been found to contain the bill Feb. 9 and sent it to the House floor. although an exception is made for certain law “debatable assumptions” or outright errors. That work is currently performed by two enforcement and wildlife control activities. For example, in one case a simple omission department employees using a rented garbage The bill was approved Feb. 9 by the House resulted in a fiscal note understating the cost truck. Rep. Kirk Stensrud (R-Eden Prairie), Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and of a bill by as much as $25 million. the bill’s sponsor, said he doesn’t think it Finance Committee — on a voice vote that “Fiscal notes — at least some of them — makes sense for the state to have employees appeared to be along party lines — and sent to have gotten a bad reputation,” said Legislative dedicated to picking up trash at a handful of the House floor. It has no Senate companion. Auditor James Nobles. He and his staff state buildings. “The origin is actually coming from the presented the report to the House Ways and He said it would make more sense to let the manufacturers, dealers and importers to Means Committee Feb. 13. No action was agency outsource that work to a professional make sure that they have a level playing taken. waste-hauling company; however, he noted field to legally sell to entities that are able Last year, some lawmakers accused agencies that the bill’s language was permissive, so that to purchase them: law enforcement and the of producing biased or inaccurate fiscal notes layoffs would not necessarily be required. DNR,” Benson said. in an attempt to thwart the passage of certain “It’s not my intention to get rid of Committee Chairman Rep. Tony Cornish bills. OLA found no evidence of this in any of employees, but I think this bill will allow (R-Vernon Center) said the bill has neither the fiscal notes they examined; however, they the Department of Administration to have been officially supported nor opposed by law said the fiscal note process has other problems. freedom and flexibility in future years,” enforcement associations. Joel Alter, a program evaluation Stensrud said. “I don’t see anyone here, a law enforcement coordinator with the office, said agencies Opponents said the bill would set a officer, saying that there is a need,” said Rep. have admitted putting minimal effort into dangerous precedent. Rena Moran (DFL-St. Paul). calculating fiscal notes for legislation they Under current law, the department cannot The bill explicitly states that the proposed believe is unlikely to be passed. He said contract out work if there are state employees change is not intended to allow personal use they have also had difficulty estimating capable of performing it. Julie Bleyhl, a of silencers. Thirty-four states allow citizens the proposed cost savings of bills designed lobbyist representing AFSCME Council 5, to own suppressors. specifically to cut costs. said the bill would chip away at that statute, Stafford said if he were to sell a silencer to “We observe that agencies have struggled which she said protects state workers. someone for personal use he could face prison to estimate savings for bills that propose She also suggested it might not be a good time, a hefty fine and the loss of his license to large-scale reforms or proposals that have idea to have a private company handling sell. little or no precedent,” Alter said. “potentially sensitive material” discarded by Also approved by the committee and The report makes several state agencies. She said the bill amounted to sent to the House floor was HF1984. recommendations, including: micromanaging. Sponsored by Rep. Peggy Scott (R-Andover), • ensuring that agencies clearly explain the Stensrud disagreed, saying it was the it would authorize a federally licensed assumptions and calculations in their fiscal statute itself that was micromanaging the firearms manufacturer to possess and use notes; department’s work. silencers “exclusively for the purposes of • more effective communication between “I think this is an option we would like to testing firearms manufactured” for law legislators and agencies regarding the give the Department of Administration,” he enforcement and military agencies. It’s intent and language of bills; and said. companion, SF1798, sponsored by Sen. • a greater effort to include the likely impact A companion, SF1846, sponsored by Gretchen Hoffman (R-Vergas), awaits action on local entities in fiscal notes. Sen. (R-Bainard), awaits the the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Nobles emphasized that the fiscal note action by the Senate State Government and Committee. process is important and should be improved, Innovation Committee. — M. Cook not abandoned. — N. Busse

14 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 The bill was held over Feb. 9 for possible Morris the loris omnibus bill inclusion. According to a Department of Revenue fiscal analysis, staffing costs and per diem for the one-year commission would range anywhere from $141,000 to $889,000 depending on office space, number and type of staff and outside consulting services. Rep. Melissa Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park) said the responsibility for studying tax policy belongs with the tax committee and this could be a duplication of effort. Rep. Diane Loeffler (DFL-Mpls) agreed, adding that many times legislative reports end up sitting on a library shelf and are not acted upon. Representatives from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and the Minnesota Business Partnership spoke in favor of the bill. The companion, SF1712, sponsored by Sen. Gretchen Hoffman (R-Vergas), awaits action by the Senate State Government Innovation and Veterans Committee. — L. Schutz

Credits for venture capital Early-stage, high-risk startup companies in Minnesota might have access to a larger pool of venture capital, under a bill that won House committee approval. Sponsored by Rep. Keith Downey (R-Edina), HF1823 would establish a “Minnesota Business Investment Company” (MBIC) credit program. It proposes up to $100 million of tax credits to incentivize insurance companies to invest part of their reserves in venture capital firms that fund photo by andrew vonbank Minnesota-based startups. A slow loris performs slow acrobatics in the Capitol Rotunda Feb. 8. The primate was on The House Jobs and Economic display, along with other animals, as part of Minnesota Zoo Day at the Capitol. Development Finance Committee approved the bill Feb. 9 and referred it to the House Taxes Committee. 15-member commission with three members Similar programs already exist in Taxes appointed by the governor and six each from 12 states, where they are commonly known the House and Senate. It would include as CAPCO (Certified Capital Companies) Tax reform could go to commission legislators, executive branch members and programs. Downey said the bill would help level the playing field with these other states. Minnesota’s complicated tax structure private citizens. The commission would be “This would incentivize investment to lacks transparency and is in need of reform, charged with evaluating the state’ tax system the small business world,” Downey said. “It according to Rep. Jenifer Loon (R-Eden and presenting recommendations to the would do so not just through a credit to the Prairie), who proposes a commission with the Legislature by March 1, 2013. A draft bill investors, but by incentivizing insurance goal of simplifying the code and making it implementing changes would then be ready companies to allocate a portion of their more fair and equitable to all Minnesotans. for introduction in the 2014 session. reserves in their investment strategy to small While there have been several attempts “Our tax structure is very discouraging businesses in Minnesota.” to overhaul the tax system, Loon thinks to businesses,” Loon told the House Taxes In addition, the bill would expand the her approach would actually spur change Committee, noting many studies point to state’s current angel investment credit because the commission would be directly the state not being competitive with its tax program by increasing the annual limit accountable to the Legislature. structure. The need for change is clear, she from $12 million to $20 million; repealing HF1822, which Loon sponsors, calls for a said.

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 15 minimum wage requirements for recipients; The proposed change would help fund the that are really getting screwed up.” improving public disclosure; and tightening phase out of the state’s General Levy (the The bill would also conform the state eligibility requirements. commercial-industrial property tax), Davids to the federal increase in the standard Jeff Nelson, who coordinates the angel said. This would “lower the cost of doing deduction for married filers in tax year 2012 investor credit program for the Department business in the state, so that it becomes more and retain it at the state level regardless of of Employment and Economic Development, competitive.” federal changes in the future. said that in just a year and a half, the program However, testifiers, including Steve It would also increase the homeowner has spurred $92 million of investment. In Peterson representing the Coalition of property tax refund maximums and freeze 2011 alone, 113 businesses were funded by Greater Minnesota Cities, are concerned city local government aid payments at 100 investors utilizing the credit. that, while in this biennium, the move would percent of pay 2012 amounts. “There are a number of types of companies be paid by changes to the renters refund, the — L. Schutz that are receiving the money, but the most bill does not specify how the “hole” to the common industry types are medical devices, state’s revenue would be filled in later years. software, biotech and clean tech,” Nelson said. Several DFL members said renters should Transportation Rep. Tim Mahoney (DFL-St. Paul) not bear the burden of reducing property questioned why the state was giving tax taxes for businesses. breaks to insurance companies. If venture “It’s a sad commentary on what’s happening Creating the ‘Black and Yellow Trail’ capital investing is such a good idea, he asked in this state,” said Rep. Michael Paymar A southern Minnesota highway that why the state doesn’t just invest in its own (DFL-St. Paul). “When we take it from the extends from South Dakota to Wisconsin pension funds and keep the potential profits. poor; when we take it from the disabled, could get its old designation back. Downey replied that he did not necessarily there’s something about our priorities here Sponsored by Rep. Kim Norton (DFL- oppose that idea, but said he thought it was a separate issue. He noted that Wisconsin’s public pension fund includes more high-risk Snow day investments than Minnesota’s. Sen. Geoff Michel (R-Edina) sponsors the companion, SF1774, which awaits action by the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Committee.

— N. Busse

Pitting renters against businesses Renters may be called upon to pay for the phase out of the state commercial-industrial property tax, according to opponents of a bill that would make several changes to the state’s tax code. Minnesota is only one of 10 states that provides an unqualified renters credit, according to House Taxes Committee Chairman Rep. Greg Davids (R-Preston). The credit should be reduced, he said, to more adequately reflect the actual amount reflective of property taxes paid by the property owner. He brought his proposal (HF1914) before the committee Feb. 14 for discussion purposes only. The bill’s companion, SF1596, sponsored by Sen. Julianne Ortman (R-Chanhassen), awaits action by the Senate Taxes Committee. The bill would reduce the renters’ refund from 17 percent to 15 percent starting with tax year 2011. Additionally, it would create a separate refund table for senior and/or disabled renters and modify the maximum photo by andrew vonbank income eligibility requirements. The grounds around the State Office Building are covered with a rare, and short-lived, Last year’s tax law lowered the renters dusting of snow Feb. 14. credit refund percentage from 19 percent.

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 16 Rochester), HF39 would again designate the House Government Operations and The bill would appropriate money from the Trunk Highway 14 as the “Black and Yellow Elections Committee. Trunk Highway Fund to the Department Trail.” Potentially the most controversial part of Transportation to cover contract costs “Back in 1917 it was designated as such, would prohibit speed limit violations of and essential employees needed for contract and somewhere along the line … it had fallen up to 10 mph over the limit in 55 mph and administration for state road construction; by the wayside,” Norton said. 60 mph zones from going on a driver’s road maintenance and operations; and The bill was held over Feb. 13 by the record. Currently, a ticket does not appear program planning and delivery, such House Transportation Policy and Finance on someone’s driving record if the person was as preliminary engineering or project Committee for possible omnibus bill driving up to 10 mph over the speed limit in management. inclusion. A companion, SF1063, sponsored a 55 mph zone, or 5 mph over the limit in a The constitutionally dedicated funds come by Senate Majority Leader Dave Senjem 60 mph zone. primarily from three highway user taxes: (R-Rochester), awaits action by the Senate “This is not good public safety policy,” said motor fuels, vehicle registration and the sale Transportation Committee. Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL-Mpls). “Any of motor vehicles. Historian Ray Ricketts said the stretch is kind of inference that it’s OK to go over the “Because of the unusual situation last part of an early highway between Chicago speed limit is problematic.” summer, we had work actually suspended, and Yellowstone Park, called the “Black and Representatives from the state patrol and and one of the reasons given was there as no Yellow Trail.” the Department of Transportation also authority to expend funds on contracts that had “This is a piece of our state’s history that spoke against the provision, saying, in part, already been signed, had already been vetted still closely follows its original alignment,” the idea sends the wrong message about and had already been awarded,” Committee he said. traffic safety laws. Chairman Rep. Mike Beard (R-Shakopee), the The Department of Transportation “The ability to write tickets and enforce bill sponsor, said at the Feb. 13 meeting. would be directed to design and erect signs traffic laws is not impeded in the least,” Beard “The bill basically allows contracts that signifying the designation; however, the signs said, adding he’s only trying to help keep have already been let to continue operation must be paid for through non-state funding people’s insurance costs down. “I’m in favor and authorize the commissioner from sources. Ricketts envisions signage near the of cutting people a little slack there.” (Minnesota) Management & Budget to have respective state borders and where Highway Sponsored by Rep. Dean Urdahl (R-Grove access to money to continue the contracts 14 and Interstate 35 meet in Owatonna. City), a standalone bill for this (HF537) was that are already in force.” Norton said South Dakota already designates passed 111-20 by the House last session, but Tim Worke, director of the Transportation this roadway. didn’t go anywhere in the Senate. and Highway/Heavy Division for the Rep. Terry Morrow (DFL-St. Peter) isn’t Other provisions in the bill include: Associated General Contractors of concerned about what the road is called; • allowing a person under age 18 to complete Minnesota, spoke in support of the bill. rather its safety, especially where there has the classroom portion of driver’s education “Construction is inherently schedule-driven been talk of expanding the highway from online through a program approved by the and in this state we have a severely climate- two to four lanes. Department of Public Safety; shortened construction season,” Worke said. “Given the fatality record of Highway 14 • allowing payment of driver’s license “When you disrupt that sequencing, there in Nicollet County, my constituents want to and identification card fees by credit or is significant repercussion downstream and know not what am I doing about signage, but debit card, and authorizing driver’s license throughout the schedule of the project.” what am I doing about safety,” he said, adding agents to impose a convenience fee; A combination of sequencing and the that 220 crashes have occurred on the road • expanding the authority for buses state government shutdown cost O’Malley in the past five years in his district, seven of to operate on freeway or expressway Construction about 45 percent of its business them fatal. “I find it very difficult to vote for shoulders so that counties and towns in 2011, said Lori O’Malley, the company a bill putting signs on a road where we need having jurisdiction over the road can president. They subsequently had to lay off to improve the safety of the road.” authorize the buses; and five employees _ about 23 percent of their — M. Cook • requiring the Driver and Vehicle Services workforce. Division of the Department of Public Safety “The courts don’t understand what is Omnibus policy bill proffered to include a mechanism for vehicle owners essential in Minnesota,” said Rep. Mark Speed limit violations, online driver’s to donate $2 for organ donation educational Murdock (R-Ottertail). education training and dollars for organ programs as part of an in-person payment A companion, SF1530, sponsored by Sen. donation are part of a proposed omnibus of vehicle registration taxes. Joe Gimse (R-Willmar), was scheduled to be transportation policy bill. — M. Cook heard Feb. 16 by the Senate Transportation Sponsored by Rep. Mike Beard Committee. (R-Shakopee), HF1284 is mostly what Ensuring funding in a shutdown — M. Cook was proposed in last session’s omnibus bill A remedy could be established in the event (HF1068) that was awaiting floor action legislators cannot agree on a plan to fund Watch for House Public Information Services when session concluded. state roads maintenance and construction. updates at Approved Feb. 8 by the House The House Transportation Policy and www.twitter.com/MNHouseInfo Transportation Policy and Finance Finance Committee is expected to vote on Committee, the latest version was sent to HF1971 at its Feb. 20 meeting.

17 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 BILL INTRODUCTIONS F E B R uary 8 - 16, 2011 HOUSE FILES 2085 - 2343

Wednesday, Feb. 8 HF2096-Anderson, P. (R) HF2107-Laine (DFL) HF2117-Abeler (R) Environment, Energy & Government Operations & Elections Health & Human Services Reform HF2085-Beard (R) Natural Resources Policy & Finance City charter commission expenses Health occupation complaint processes Transportation Policy & Finance Glenwood; flood hazard mitigation payment provided. modified, and licenses prohibited to Publicly owned airports capital grant funding provided, bonds issued individuals with felony-level sexual improvements funding provided, bonds and money appropriated. HF2108-Hancock (R) conduct convictions. issued and money appropriated. Jobs & Economic Development HF2097-Peppin (R) Finance HF2118-Abeler (R) HF2086-McNamara (R) Health & Human Services Reform Northland Regional Sports Center Education Reform Environment, Energy & Child care accreditation provisions funding provided, bonds issued and K-12 education income subtraction and Natural Resources Policy & Finance modified. money appropriated. credit modified to apply to fees charged Outdoor Heritage fund money for extracurricular activities. appropriated and requirements HF2098-Dill (DFL) HF2109-Hancock (R) modified. Environment, Energy & Education Finance HF2119-Quam (R) Natural Resources Policy & Finance Independent School District No. 38, Government Operations & Elections HF2087-LeMieur (R) Public lands expedited exchange Red Lake; facility construction and City’s power of eminent domain Commerce & Regulatory Reform restrictions modified. renovation funding provided, bonds outside of the city limited. State Building Code changes made. issued and money appropriated. HF2099-Peppin (R) HF2120-Quam (R) HF2088-Winkler (DFL) Transportation Policy & Finance HF2110-McDonald (R) Civil Law Redistricting Maple Grove transit station, phase 2 Health & Human Services Reform Personnel data sharing required by Legislature; various reforms enacted. parking expansion funding provided, Long-term care consultation government entities except where bonds issued and money appropriated. requirements modified for prospective otherwise restricted. HF2089-Bills (R) housing with services residents. Taxes HF2100-Kriesel (R) HF2121-Cornish (R) Apple Valley; creation of tax increment Veterans Services Division HF2111-Melin (DFL) Public Safety & Crime Prevention financing district authorized. Veterans and spouses of a disabled or Judiciary Policy & Finance Policy & Finance deceased veteran hiring and promotion Court of Appeals judges’ residential Right of individuals to keep and HF2090-Mack (R) preference by private employer eligibility requirements amended, and bear arms for defense of life and Taxes permitted. chief judge of the Court of Appeals liberty and for all other legitimate Apple Valley; tax increment financing directed to redesignate judges consistent purposes protected as fundamental; use authorized and authority extended. HF2101-Kath (DFL) with new eligibility requirements. constitutional amendment proposed. Transportation Policy & Finance HF2091-Anzelc (DFL) Steele County highway operations HF2112-Melin (DFL) HF2122-Carlson (DFL) Environment, Energy & complex funding provided, bonds Judiciary Policy & Finance Transportation Policy & Finance Natural Resources Policy & Finance issued and money appropriated. Court of Appeals housing and mileage Bottineau Boulevard Transit Way Itasca County; private sale of tax- expense reimbursement allowed for corridor funding provided, bonds issued forfeited lands provided. HF2102-Benson, M. (R) judges living more than 50 miles from and money appropriated. Transportation Policy & Finance their permanent chambers. HF2092-Anzelc (DFL) Farm trucks USDOT number HF2123-LeMieur (R) Agriculture & Rural Development requirements changed. HF2113-Abeler (R) Taxes Policy & Finance State Government Finance Property tax late payment penalties Cellulosic biofuel facilities HF2103-Lohmer (R) Legislature; fiscal notes and revenue modified. environmental review requirements Health & Human Services Reform estimates information provisions modified. Abortions prohibited when fetal modified. HF2124-Nelson (DFL) heartbeat is detected. Higher Education Policy & Finance HF2093-Sanders (R) HF2114-Abeler (R) North Hennepin Community College; Jobs & Economic Development HF2104-Champion (DFL) Transportation Policy & Finance Bioscience and Allied Health Careers Finance Environment, Energy & Pedestrian bridges and overpasses addition funding provided, bonds issued Independent contractor employee Natural Resources Policy & Finance over trunk highways temporary signage and money appropriated. classification clarified and contractor Minneapolis; 26th Avenue North provided. registration pilot project provided. Parkway funding provided, bonds HF2125-Melin (DFL) issued and money appropriated. HF2115-Abeler (R) Jobs & Economic Development HF2094-Norton (DFL) Transportation Policy & Finance Finance Health & Human Services Finance HF2105-Anzelc (DFL) Trunk Highway 47 county Renewable solar energy systems Minnesota health care program provider Environment, Energy & maintenance authorized. funding provided, bonds issued and requirements modified for critical access Natural Resources Policy & Finance money appropriated. dental provider clinics. Wetland replacement requirements HF2116-Abeler (R) modified. Health & Human Services Reform HF2126-Mariani (DFL) HF2095-Fabian (R) Patient health records copy fee Education Reform Environment, Energy & HF2106-Winkler (DFL) prohibition provision removed, State regulation exemption provided Natural Resources Policy & Finance Education Finance hospital safety survey information for schools. Environmental permitting efficiency Perpich Center for Arts Education public report required, Department of provided, and environmental review funding provided, bonds issued and Health’s economics program transferred HF2127-Myhra (R) requirements modified. money appropriated. to the Department of Commerce, Education Reform commissioner of health required to Online learning parameters modified study possible effects of allowing for- and digital learning provided. profit HMOs to operate in the state, and patient health information release requirements modified. 18 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 HF2128-Quam (R) HF2140-Drazkowski (R) HF2152-Vogel (R) HF2161-Nornes (R) Health & Human Services Reform Commerce & Regulatory Reform Commerce & Regulatory Reform Taxes Emergency medical personnel licensed. Freedom of employment established; Real estate licensees’ responsibility Otter Tail County; City of Vergas constitutional amendment proposed. specified for property management aggregate tax imposition authorized. HF2129-Torkelson (R) activities on real property owned by Environment, Energy & HF2141-Norton (DFL) the licensee or by an entity in which HF2162-Murray (R) Natural Resources Policy & Finance Health & Human Services Reform the licensee has an ownership interest. Jobs & Economic Development Minnesota River Trail funding State health care program participation Finance provided, bonds issued and money requirement modified for volunteer HF2153-McNamara (R) Greater Minnesota business appropriated. dental service providers. Environment, Energy & development infrastructure grant Natural Resources Policy & Finance program funding provided, bonds issued HF2130-Knuth (DFL) HF2142-Drazkowski (R) Agency prepayments authorized; and money appropriated. Higher Education Policy & Finance Government Operations & Elections apprentice riders provided; provisions University of Minnesota Board of Public employment paid time off modified relating to aquatic invasive HF2163-McNamara (R) Regents or Board of Trustees of conditions specified. species, local government trail authority, Environment, Energy & the Minnesota State Colleges and enforcement, bait, prior appropriations, Natural Resources Policy & Finance Universities system; membership of HF2143-Quam (R) La Salle Lake State Recreation Area Pollutant spill regulation provided. certain officials prohibited for a limited Health & Human Services Reform administration, easements, lands time. Athletic Trainers Practice Act withdrawn from sale and lease HF2164-McNamara (R) provisions modified, licensure provided provisions; reporting, plan and meeting Environment, Energy & HF2131-Davnie (DFL) and licensure fees established. requirements eliminated; loan program Natural Resources Policy & Finance Transportation Policy & Finance eliminated; state parks, state recreation Water reporting and assessment Minneapolis; Franklin Avenue Bridge HF2144-Scott (R) areas and state forests added to and requirements, waste management rehabilitation funding provided, bonds Government Operations & Elections deleted from; private sale of state lands provisions, toxic pollution prevention issued and money appropriated. Black bear designated as the state authorized; and civil penalties provided. requirements, stationary source mammal. standards, acid deposition control HF2132-Lohmer (R) HF2154-Moran (DFL) requirements and sewage sludge Government Operations & Elections HF2145-Mullery (DFL) Government Operations & Elections management modified; environmental Washington County Housing and Transportation Policy & Finance Minnesota Sunset Act council review clarified, fees eliminated and Redevelopment Authority; jurisdiction Insurance requirement amended for provisions modified. new open air swine basin prohibition clarified. limited driver’s license and ignition extended. interlock device program. HF2155-Moran (DFL) HF2133-Kriesel (R) Transportation Policy & Finance HF2165-Kieffer (R) Transportation Policy & Finance HF2146-Scott (R) Central Corridor light rail line property Taxes Gateway Corridor (Interstate 94 East) Government Operations & Elections valuation increases limited. Woodbury; youth athletic facility public funding provided, bonds issued and Metropolitan Council building plan, debt issuance without a referendum money appropriated. specification and drawing data classified; HF2156-Swedzinski (R) authorized. and government agency requests Taxes HF2134-Dettmer (R) classified for bids and proposal data. Vesta; local government aid decertified. HF2166-Nornes (R) Environment, Energy & Higher Education Policy & Finance Natural Resources Policy & Finance HF2147-Scott (R) University of Minnesota; spending Browns Creek Trail funding provided, Government Operations & Elections Thursday, Feb. 9 to acquire and better public land and bonds issued and money appropriated. Metropolitan Area Water Supply buildings and other improvements of a Advisory Committee sunset date HF2157-Persell (DFL) capital nature authorized, bonds issued HF2135-Greene (DFL) extended. State Government Finance and money appropriated. Higher Education Policy & Finance Bemidji; veterans facility establishment Minneapolis Community and Technical HF2148-Scott (R) HF2167-Nornes (R) funding provided, bonds issued and College workforce program renovation Government Operations & Elections Higher Education Policy & Finance money appropriated. funding provided, bonds issued and Water resources statute miscellaneous Minnesota State Colleges and money appropriated. technical corrections made and obsolete HF2158-Kiel (R) Universities; spending to acquire and language removed and modified. Agriculture & Rural Development better public land and buildings and HF2136-Sanders (R) Policy & Finance other improvements of a capital nature Transportation Policy & Finance HF2149-Simon (DFL) authorized, bonds issued and money Biodiesel minimum content Motor vehicle salvage titles regulated, Public Safety & Crime Prevention appropriated. requirement exceptions extended. and motor vehicle damage disclosure Policy & Finance HF2168-Lanning (R) modified. Domestic violence-related offense HF2159-Swedzinski (R) Government Operations & Elections qualifying definition expanded. Agriculture & Rural Development HF2137-Atkins (DFL) Minnesota statewide and major local Policy & Finance Health & Human Services Reform HF2150-Anderson, S. (R) benefit retirement plan actuarial Immigrant and minority microloan Bisphenol-A prohibition expanded in Commerce & Regulatory Reform reporting interest, salary scale, and program established, and Rural Finance products for young children. Minnesota Management & Budget; payroll growth assumptions revised. Authority provisions modified. public employee insurance program HF2138-Westrom (R) HF2169-Beard (R) changes made, and temporary HF2160-Cornish (R) Environment, Energy & Government Operations & Elections moratorium established to preclude Public Safety & Crime Prevention Natural Resources Policy & Finance State agency rule review and reporting employees from joining the public Policy & Finance Douglas County; Lake Oscar drainage employee insurance program if their methods provided. Fingerprints permitted to be taken outlet funding provided, bonds issued employer is not in the program as of the by law enforcement for any offender and money appropriated. date of enactment. HF2170-LeMieur (R) interacting with the criminal justice State Government Finance system for any offense to eliminate a HF2139-Bills (R) HF2151-Persell (DFL) Camp Ripley education center funding suspense record. Veterans Services Division State Government Finance provided, bonds issued and money Tax credit provided to employers who Cass Lake sanitary and storm water appropriated. employ qualified veterans. sewer system funding provided, bonds issued and money appropriated.

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 19 HF2171-Hackbarth (R) HF2181-Brynaert (DFL) HF2192-Drazkowski (R) HF2203-Bills (R) Environment, Energy & Jobs & Economic Education Finance Government Operations & Natural Resources Policy & Finance Development Finance Independent School District No. 857 Elections Game and fish license, and taking FastTRAC adult career pathway Lewiston-Altura authorized to exercise Public employee fair share fee modified, and transporting of wild animals program created and money remaining disability access project levy and dues check-offs prohibited. requirements modified; wolf taking appropriated. authority. provided; department authority and dues, HF2204-Bills (R) firearm and bow discharge restrictions, HF2182-Melin (DFL) HF2193-Nelson (DFL) Government Operations & predator control program, deer baiting Government Operations & Elections Civil Law Elections restrictions, receipt disposition and State procurement policies amended and Utility disconnection notice Public employee fair share fee modified. beaver removal authority modified, Buy Minnesota Act established. requirements expanded, energy service and fishing regulation executive order providers’ notice of sale service required HF2205-Howes (R) authority eliminated. HF2183-Koenen (DFL) and utility payment by the holder of a Capital Investment Jobs & Economic sheriff’s certificate provided. Spending authorized to acquire better HF2172-McElfatrick (R) Development Finance public land and buildings and for other Jobs & Economic Urban initiative loan program HF2194-Gauthier (DFL) improvements of a capital nature, Development Finance and Greater Minnesota business State Government Finance programs established, Cook County Construction code fund transfer to the development funding provided and Spirit Mountain Recreation Authority water facility construction district General Fund eliminated. money appropriated. water facility construction funding formation authorized, commissioner of provided, bonds issued and money natural resources authorized to make HF2173-Kieffer (R) HF2184-Mahoney (DFL) appropriated. acquisitions of land or interests in land, Commerce & Regulatory Reform Jobs & Economic bonds issued, previous appropriations Home solicitation sale definition Development Finance HF2195-McElfatrick (R) modified and money appropriated. clarified. Bridge to Work Minnesota program Higher Education Policy & Finance created and job-training incentives Itasca Community College capital HF2206-Rukavina (DFL) HF2174-O’Driscoll (R) provided. improvement funding provided, bonds Environment, Energy & Commerce & Regulatory Reform issued and money appropriated. Natural Resources Policy & Finance Interest-bearing deposit investments HF2185-Scalze (DFL) Trespass provisions modified relating authorized and designated depositories Jobs & Economic HF2196-Fabian (R) to hunting. provided. Development Finance Environment, Energy & Economic development funding Natural Resources Policy & Finance HF2207-McFarlane (R) HF2175-Kahn (DFL) provided, transportation economic Flood hazard mitigation grants funding Environment, Energy & Government Operations & Elections development program established, bonds provided, bonds issued and money Natural Resources Policy & Finance Constitutional amendment process authorized and money appropriated. appropriated. Boundary Waters Canoe Area modified requiring a two-thirds vote of Wilderness state land expedited each house of the Legislature to submit HF2186-Fritz (DFL) HF2197-Eken (DFL) exchange, condemnation and private a constitutional amendment to the Jobs & Economic Commerce & Regulatory Reform sale provided. people, and constitutional amendment Development Finance Lottery gaming machine operation proposed. Minnesota investment fund money and non-lottery game conduction HF2208-Kiel (R) appropriated. authorized at a gaming facility, gaming Transportation Policy & Finance HF2176-Paymar (DFL) facility licensed and regulated, gaming Trunk highway interchange funding Health & Human Services Finance transaction fee imposed on gaming provided, bonds issued and money Medical Assistance employed persons facility and money appropriated. appropriated. with disabilities program modified, Monday, Feb. 13 asset limitation provisions changed and HF2198-Hosch (DFL) HF2209-Banaian (R) HF2187-Vogel (R) money appropriated. Health & Human Services Finance Government Operations & Transportation Policy & Finance Aliveness Project of Minneapolis money Elections Vehicle title bond and title issuance HF2177-Peterson, S. (DFL) appropriated. Former legislators’ health insurance requirements clarified. Higher Education Policy & Finance coverage modified, and legislator salary Minnesota opportunity training grants HF2199-Lanning (R) calculation changed for the Minnesota HF2188-Kiffmeyer (R) created and money appropriated. Government Operations & Elections State Retirement System. Government Operations & Elections Correctional state employees retirement HF2178-Lanning (R) Voter eligibility provisions for plan of the Minnesota State Retirement HF2210-Banaian (R) Commerce & Regulatory Reform individuals under guardianship System coverage changes implemented Higher Education Policy & Finance conformed to constitutional Moorhead; Bluestem Center for the Arts as recommended by the commissioner Greater Minnesota internship program requirements and other related on-sale license allowed. of human services. established, tax credit allowed and procedures modified. money appropriated. HF2179-Kiffmeyer (R) HF2200-Ward (DFL) HF2189-Davids (R) Government Operations & Elections Environment, Energy & HF2211-Swedzinski (R) Taxes Statewide and major local defined Natural Resources Policy & Finance Government Operations & Rochester local sales tax revenue sharing benefit retirement plan coverage for Cuyuna Lakes State Trail funding Elections list of cities modified. overtime salary required for unclassified provided, bonds issued and money State agency rulemaking temporary state employees. appropriated. moratorium imposed. HF2190-Beard (R) Environment, Energy & HF2180-Garofalo (R) HF2201-Scott (R) HF2212-Franson (R) Natural Resources Policy & Finance Education Reform Civil Law Government Operations & Hydropower sources that may satisfy Federal adequate yearly progress Data practice provisions changed. Elections the renewable energy standard size measurements specified, and lowest Works of art in state buildings limitation eliminated. performing elementary and high schools HF2202-Beard (R) appropriation provisions repealed. required to submit to a turnaround Environment, Energy & HF2191-Carlson (DFL) strategy. Natural Resources Policy & Finance Higher Education Policy & Finance Public Utilities Commission regulatory Graduate family medicine education burden study required. programs money appropriated.

20 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 HF2213-Banaian (R) HF2224-Banaian (R) HF2233-Simon (DFL) Wednesday, Feb. 15 Higher Education Policy & Finance Taxes Civil Law Minnesota State Colleges and Taxpayers authorized to file and pay use False claims provisions modified. HF2245-Kriesel (R) Universities course material and tax with the income tax return. Jobs & Economic information disclosure required, and HF2234-Erickson (R) Development Finance MnSCU textbook task force established. HF2225-Allen (DFL) Taxes Cottage Grove; former city hall Jobs & Economic Homestead market value exclusion conversion to business incubator HF2214-Hancock (R) Development Finance repealed. funding provided, bonds issued and Environment, Energy & Advocating Change Together money appropriated. Natural Resources Policy & Finance appropriation transferred. HF2235-Davids (R) Beltrami County; tax-forfeited land Taxes HF2246-Daudt (R) bordering public water public sale HF2226-Vogel (R) Minneapolis; termination date Public Safety & authorized. Environment, Energy & provided for local taxes. Crime Prevention Policy & Finance Natural Resources Policy & Finance Convictions under the original criminal HF2215-Eken (DFL) Wind easement effective date HF2236-Westrom (R) vehicular operation law allowed to Environment, Energy & elimination delayed. Health & Human Services Finance enhance DWI offenses, and legislative Natural Resources Policy & Finance Dental provider payment critical access oversight corrected. Flood hazard mitigation grant funding HF2227-Anderson, D. (R) modified. provided, bonds issued and money Commerce & Regulatory Reform HF2247-Daudt (R) appropriated. State bank closures for holidays clarified, HF2237-Gottwalt (R) Environment, Energy & state bank lending limits changed to Health & Human Services Reform Natural Resources Policy & Finance HF2216-Hoppe (R) comply with federal law, and obsolete Hospital community benefit programs Night vision equipment use allowed Commerce & Regulatory Reform language repealed relating to deposits and health maintenance organization while taking coyotes. Minnesota Comprehensive Health payable on demand. collaboration plans; evidence-based Association; premium rate-setting strategy requirements removed. HF2248-Anzelc (DFL) process flexibility permitted, enrollment HF2228-Wagenius (DFL) Environment, Energy & closing in two plans permitted and Environment, Energy & HF2238-Benson, M. (R) Natural Resources Policy & Finance benefit flexibility permitted. Natural Resources Policy & Finance Commerce & Regulatory Reform Scram mining operations rules directed Natural resources commissioner Service cooperatives permitted to to be amended by the commissioner of HF2217-Kahn (DFL) prohibited from purchasing land at provide group health coverage to private natural resources and the Environmental Commerce & Regulatory Reform more than 20 percent above estimated employers. Quality Board. Pregnancy leave required and market value. employment accommodations required HF2239-Benson, M. (R) HF2249-Daudt (R) for pregnant women. HF2229-Torkelson (R) Transportation Policy & Finance Health & Human Services Reform Environment, Energy & Motor vehicle titling and license plate Electronic benefit card transactions HF2218-Kahn (DFL) Natural Resources Policy & Finance requirements amended and clarified for limited. Higher Education Policy & Finance Reinvest in Minnesota reserve program pioneer vehicles. Hennepin County Medical Center funding provided, bonds issued and HF2250-Daudt (R) graduate family medicine education money appropriated. HF2240-Daudt (R) Health & Human Services Reform program funding provided and money Health & Human Services Reform Residency requirements for general appropriated. HF2230-Abeler (R) Minnesota Health Care Purchasing assistance eligibility modified. Health & Human Services Reform Authority established and state health HF2219-Slawik (DFL) Pediatric care coordination services care purchasing consolidated through HF2251-Anderson, D. (R) Health & Human Services Reform provided, demonstration providers the authority. Health & Human Services Reform Child Care Affordability Act required to include in provider networks Health maintenance organizations established, child care assistance all providers that agree to standard HF2241-Laine (DFL) regulatory authority shifted from programs modified and money contract terms, patient-centered Health & Human Services Reform the commissioner of health to the appropriated. decision making required under all Managed care plan financial reporting commissioner of commerce. Medical Assistance, managed care and changes required and annual HF2220-Poppe (DFL) county-based purchasing plans required independent third-party audit required. HF2252-Lohmer (R) Judiciary Policy & Finance to reduce the incidence of low birth Health & Human Services Reform Unreasonable restraint of children level weight, competitive bidding program HF2242-Ward (DFL) Residential campus for individuals of demonstrable harm changed. established for the metro area and draft Environment, Energy & with autism plan development by methodology report required. Natural Resources Policy & Finance the commissioner of human services HF2221-Murphy, M. (DFL) Aquatic invasive species provisions instructed. Redistricting HF2231-Abeler (R) modified. Congressional districting plan adopted Government Operations & Elections HF2253-Lohmer (R) for use in 2012 and thereafter, and Federal fund statutory appropriations HF2243-Ward (DFL) Health & Human Services Finance districting principles adopted for repealed, and federal funds received Environment, Energy & Out-of-state residential mental health congressional districts. for emergency management purposes Natural Resources Policy & Finance treatment allowed for children who are money appropriated. Furbearer trap restrictions made. deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing and HF2222-Murphy, M. (DFL) who use American Sign Language as Redistricting HF2232-Drazkowski (R) HF2244-O’Driscoll (R) their first language. Legislative districting plan adopted Health & Human Services Reform Education Finance for use in 2012 and thereafter, and Welfare fraud prevented, driver’s license Permanent School Fund Advisory HF2254-Shimanski (R) districting principles adopted for photo access allowed in welfare fraud Committee changed into a legislative Commerce & Regulatory Reform legislative districts. investigations, driver’s license authentic commission; commission authority Life insurance policy accelerated benefits verification required prior to granting granted to employ a director to oversee, permitted to include long-term care HF2223-Abeler (R) welfare benefits, drug conviction search manage and administer school trust coverage, and life insurance cash value Health & Human Services Reform required to determine welfare benefit lands. use permitted to pay premiums on long- Alcohol and drug counselor and eligibility and drug offenders excluded term care insurance. licensed counselor licensing provisions from welfare eligibility. changed.

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 21 HF2255-Downey (R) HF2265-Lanning (R) HF2274-Rukavina (DFL) HF2285-Kahn (DFL) Taxes Government Operations & Elections Public Safety & Environment, Energy & Capital equipment exemption allowed Minnesota State Retirement System Crime Prevention Policy & Finance Natural Resources Policy & Finance at time of purchase. health care savings plan distributions Original ignition interlock device University of Minnesota renewable specified to go to living persons and program participants allowed to drive development account expenditure HF2256-Anzelc (DFL) other changes of an administrative non-interlock equipped employer- required. Environment, Energy & nature made. owned vehicles while in the normal Natural Resources Policy & Finance course and scope of employment duties HF2286-Loon (R) County intermediate auction sales of HF2266-Lanning (R) and with the employer’s written consent. Environment, Energy & timber allowed. Government Operations & Elections Natural Resources Policy & Finance Public Employees Retirement HF2275-Rukavina (DFL) Metropolitan area grant funding HF2257-Bills (R) Association administrative changes Higher Education Policy & Finance provided to address inflow and State Government Finance made by cross-reference revision, annual Mesabi Range Community and infiltration in the sewer system, bonds Minnesota Zoological Garden employer supplemental contributions Technical College windmill issued and money appropriated. continued operation provided for when for the MERF division timing specified installation money appropriated. biennial appropriations have not been and compensating limit provision HF2287-Slocum (DFL) acted upon and money appropriated. revised to comply with federal law. HF2276-Kiffmeyer (R) Government Operations & Elections Health & Human Services Finance Charitable organization salary public HF2258-Abeler (R) HF2267-Abeler (R) Advanced diagnostic imaging services disclosure regulated. Health & Human Services Reform Environment, Energy & operator accreditation required. Chemical health navigation program Natural Resources Policy & Finance HF2288-McElfatrick (R) created and residential chemical Metropolitan Council required to HF2277-Mahoney (DFL) Health & Human Services Reform dependency treatment limited. reduce regional parks and open space Jobs & Economic Safe haven law expanded. funding allocation to the Three Rivers Development Finance HF2259-Dettmer (R) Park District. New jobs tax credit established, HF2289-Anderson, P. (R) State Government Finance corporate franchise and sakes and Jobs & Economic Lawful gambling net profits for HF2268-Abeler (R) use taxes changes made and money Development Finance military marching, color guard or Higher Education Policy & Finance appropriated. Construction code transfer of funds honor guard units allowable per diem Board of Trustees of Minnesota State to the General Fund eliminated, reimbursement increased. Colleges and Universities system policy HF2278-Slocum (DFL) and funding provided to electrical on awarding college credit for tech-prep Environment, Energy & inspections in the event of a government HF2260-Dettmer (R) programs implementation required. Natural Resources Policy & Finance shutdown, and money appropriated. Veterans Services Division Lead shot use prohibited to take wolves. Congress and the President of the HF2269-Lanning (R) HF2290-Atkins (DFL) United States memorialized to amend State Government Finance HF2279-Slocum (DFL) Commerce & Regulatory Reform federal veterans cemetery law to expand Help America Vote Act funds Commerce & Regulatory Reform Minnesota Insurance Marketplace eligibility for burial in state veterans determined and money appropriated. Limitation on the use of credit Act established, powers and duties cemeteries developed with federal information for motor vehicle insurance prescribed and money appropriated. funding to include allied Hmong- HF2270-Torkelson (R) modified. American and Lao-American veterans Environment, Energy & HF2291-Mariani (DFL) of America’s Secret War in Laos. Natural Resources Policy & Finance HF2280-Loon (R) Education Finance Parks and trails grant program Commerce & Regulatory Reform Adult basic education; process created HF2261-Dettmer (R) provisions modified. Qualified brewer definition modified for contact hours lost due to a service State Government Finance for tax credit purposes. disruption. Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery HF2271-Gauthier (DFL) burial eligibility expanded to include Transportation Policy & Finance HF2281-Laine (DFL) HF2292-Loon (R) deceased allied Hmong-American or Minneapolis to Duluth high-speed Health & Human Services Reform Health & Human Services Reform Lao-American veterans of the American passenger rail funding provided, bonds Patient record copying charge by Adoption records and original birth Secret War in Laos. issued and money appropriated. providers decreased. certificate access provisions modified.

HF2262-Greiling (DFL) HF2272-Hornstein (DFL) HF2282-Laine (DFL) HF2293-Davnie (DFL) Health & Human Services Reform Transportation Policy & Finance Public Safety & Education Reform Background checks required on hotel, Passenger rail commissioner’s duties Crime Prevention Policy & Finance School districts; ability to use prone motel and lodging establishment modified. Violent felons’ right to petition the court restraints extended to one additional employees and volunteers of shelters to have their firearm possession ability year, and data collection and reporting serving battered women and the HF2273-Torkelson (R) restored eliminated. required. homeless. Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Policy & Finance HF2283-McElfatrick (R) HF2294-Abeler (R) HF2263-Stensrud (R) Minor permits and minor permit Taxes Health & Human Services Finance Commerce & Regulatory Reform amendments automatic approval Local government aid payment to Group residential housing provider Window cleaning safety measures provided if timely action is not taken, cities modified. supplementary rate provided, general implemented. adoption of water standards more assistance program modified, and early restrictive than federal standards HF2284-Winkler (DFL) childhood learning and child protection HF2264-Banaian (R) prohibited, deposit of monetary Jobs & Economic facilities modified. Government Operations & Elections penalties from environmental Development Finance Minnesota Management & Budget violations required to be redirected to Middle Class Jobs Act designated, early HF2295-Drazkowski (R) Department adequacy of budgeted and General Fund, citizen’s board created warning provided, sick leave modified, Government Operations & Elections forecasted defined benefit retirement and environmental review content business subsidy disclosure requirements Annual state expenditure report created. plan contributions report required. requirements modified. amended, workplace communications clarified, minimum wage requirements HF2296-Dill (DFL) modified and penalties created. Commerce & Regulatory Reform Biodiesel minimum content requirement permanent exceptions made.

22 Session Weekly February 17, 2012 HF2297-Dill (DFL) HF2308-Kieffer (R) HF2321-Scalze (DFL) HF2333-Swedzinski (R) Taxes Commerce & Regulatory Reform Transportation Policy & Finance Public Safety & Cook-Orr Hospital District levy Foreclosure consultant provisions Metropolitan transit service opt-outs Crime Prevention Policy & Finance authority modified. modified. authorized. Motor fuel theft specifically included in the theft crime and permissive inference HF2298-Dill (DFL) HF2309-Beard (R) HF2322-Anderson, S. (R) created. Environment, Energy & Commerce & Regulatory Reform Higher Education Policy & Finance Natural Resources Policy & Finance Biodiesel fuel provisions modified. Mandatory health care coverage HF2334-Laine (DFL) St. Louis County; tax forfeited leased expansion waiver required. Government Operations & Elections land sale authorized. HF2310-Erickson (R) Local government employees Education Reform HF2323-Hortman (DFL) authorized to participate in group HF2299-McFarlane (R) Education; obsolete statutes repealed. Transportation Policy & Finance long-term care insurance program. Education Finance Child passenger restraint systems Safe schools program revenue increased. HF2311-Paymar (DFL) provisions modified to qualify for federal HF2335-Sanders (R) Jobs & Economic money and commissioner of public safety Commerce & Regulatory Reform HF2300-Greiling (DFL) Development Finance authorized to accept federal money. Debt collection agency and registration Education Finance Ford Motor Company; state funds of individual debt collector procedures School districts authorized to replace appropriated. amended. special education revenue lost to Thursday, Feb. 16 the statewide special education HF2312-Rukavina (DFL) HF2336-Downey (R) Environment, Energy & Jobs & Economic appropriations cap. HF2324-Westrom (R) Natural Resources Policy & Finance Development Finance Civil Law HF2301-Greiling (DFL) Renewable solar energy; state Business property taxes reduced, small Real estate title actions limitations Education Finance appropriation use authorized. business regulatory review board period reduced. School districts authorized to levy for created and moratorium on rulemaking HF2313-Rukavina (DFL) changes to employer contribution for HF2325-Doepke (R) imposed by state agencies except in Taxes specified instances. teacher retirement. Education Reform Delinquent property tax interest rate School districts prohibited from holding HF2302-Kriesel (R) changed. HF2337-Davids (R) school on the Thursday and Friday before Public Safety & Taxes Labor Day. Crime Prevention Policy & Finance HF2314-Howes (R) State general levy reduced and Environment, Energy & Predatory offenders prohibited from HF2326-Downey (R) eliminated, additional property Natural Resources Policy & Finance tax refund modified and money serving as hotel or motel employees, and Government Operations & Elections background check required. Subsurface sewage treatment systems appropriated. Longer public notice period provided ordinance delayed. for zoning ordinance or amendment HF2303-Murdock (R) HF2338-Garofalo (R) for large projects. Jobs & Economic HF2315-Beard (R) Commerce & Regulatory Reform Development Finance Transportation Policy & Finance HF2327-Benson, M. (R) State lottery director authorized to establish gaming machines at a licensed Wadena; street and utility improvement Electric vehicle registration tax increased Government Operations & Elections funding provided for infrastructure by $100. racetrack, gaming machine revenue fee Election administration procedures for damaged by the 2010 tornado, bonds imposed, powers and duties provided individuals who have been convicted of issued and money appropriated. HF2316-Sanders (R) to the director and money dedicated a felony modified. Transportation Policy & Finance for education. HF2304-Murdock (R) Concrete diamond grinding and saw HF2328-Beard (R) Higher Education Policy & Finance HF2339-Gottwalt (R) slurry disposal provision required in Transportation Policy & Finance Central Lakes College, Staples; highway construction, improvement or Health & Human Services Reform Air flight property tax levies, aircraft fuel agriculture reconfiguration and main repair contracts. Health care compact created. taxes and aircraft registration taxes and building renovation funding provided, filing fees provisions modified. bonds issued and money appropriated. HF2317-Knuth (DFL) HF2340-Holberg (R) Environment, Energy & Health & Human Services Reform HF2329-Holberg (R) HF2305-Gunther (R) Natural Resources Policy & Finance Abortion facility licensure required. Education Reform Jobs & Economic Public building payment incentives CPR training and instruction Development Finance established for installation of solar HF2341-Peppin (R) requirements clarified. Barber licenses and fees changed, photovoltaic devices and money Health & Human Services Reform penalties created and money appropriated. HF2330-Westrom (R) Abortion; prescribing physicians required to be physically present appropriated. Environment, Energy & HF2318-Downey (R) when abortion-inducing drugs are Natural Resources Policy & Finance HF2306-Drazkowski (R) Taxes administered and criminal penalty University of Minnesota renewable Government Operations & Elections Business property taxes reduced. provided. energy research funding allocation date Labor organization membership extended. information access provided, fair share HF2319-Downey (R) HF2342-Davids (R) Jobs & Economic Commerce & Regulatory Reform fee challenges clarified and independent HF2331-Slawik (DFL) Development Finance Township mutual fire insurance review of grievances modified. Health & Human Services Finance Small business regulatory review board company combination policies Children absent days limit exception HF2307-Daudt (R) created and legislative appointments regulated. provided. Commerce & Regulatory Reform provided. HF2343-Howes (R) Guaranty association coverage written HF2332-Murray (R) HF2320-Hilty (DFL) Environment, Energy & disclosure permitted when a policy Jobs & Economic is delivered and access expanded to Government Operations & Elections Natural Resources Policy & Finance Development Finance accident reports to include all parties Carlton County; tax levy authorized for Freedom to Hunt and Fish Act of Small business investment credit higher involved. cemetery purposes. 2012 enacted, availability of game and percentage provided for qualified fish licensees required by electronic Greater Minnesota businesses. transaction and money appropriated.

February 17, 2012 Session Weekly 23 Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services 175 State Office Building 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155-1298

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

Session Weekly

Director MINNESOTA INDEX Barry LaGrave

Editor/Assistant Director Doing business in Minnesota Lee Ann Schutz Number of Fortune 500 companies in Minnesota in 2011...... 20 Assistant Editor State rank...... 8 Mike Cook Minnesota companies among Forbes largest private companies by revenue in 2011...... 7 State rank...... 8 Art & Production Coordinator Estimated revenues in 2011 for Minnesota-based Cargill, the largest private firm Paul Battaglia in the country, in billions...... $110 Writers Billions spent in 2010 in research and development by public companies Nick Busse, Bob Geiger, Susan Hegarty, in Minnesota...... $6.5 Erin Schmidtke State rank...... 10 Chief Photographer Billions spent by Medtronic...... $1.7 Paul Battaglia Billions spent by 3M...... $1.2 Percent, in fiscal year 2010, of Minnesota’s effective business tax rate — calculated Photographer as business taxes as a proportion of private gross state product...... 4.4 Andrew VonBank National average, as percent...... 5 Staff Assistants Minnesota’s corporate income tax share as a proportion of total state taxes, as percent.... 7 Christy Novak, Angella Hanson Average national share, as percent...... 7.1 Percent of Minnesota manufacturers that experienced increased profits in 2011...... 30 • To have Session Weekly mailed to you, Percent who experienced profit declines...... 40 subscribe online at www.house.mn/ hinfo/subscribesw.asp or call Manufacturers that increased investment in their plant and equipment in 2011, 651-296-2146, 800-657-3550. as percent...... 33 Percent that decreased investment in 2011...... 25 • Session Weekly Online is available at Percent increase in Minnesota’s agricultural, mining and manufactured exports www.house.mn/sessionweekly. in the third quarter of 2011 compared to one year prior...... 4 Value of exports in third quarter of 2011, in billions...... $5.1 • If you enjoy Session Weekly, please Jobs added in the state, as estimate, between the third quarters of 2010 and 2011...... 38,000 consider helping to defray production Percent increase...... 1.4 and mailing costs with a voluntary donation for the 2012 session. Year the JOBZ program was introduced to promote development in Greater Minnesota by, in part, offering tax incentives to companies that start up or expand Make your check payable to Minnesota in targeted zones...... 2003 House of Representatives, and mail it to: Estimated number of jobs that JOBZ has directly or indirectly created since House Public Information Services its inception...... 19,600 175 State Office Building Average annual wage of those jobs...... $35,743 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. For every job created by a JOBZ recipient, estimated number of jobs created St. Paul, MN 55155-1298 elsewhere by suppliers and people spending more money in the local economy...... 2.1 For general information, call House Public — M. Cook Information Services at 651-296-2146 or 800-657-3550. Sources: Department of Employment and Economic Development, including Positively Minnesota, Minnesota Manufacturing Business Conditions Survey and JOBZ 2010 Annual Report.