SESSION WEEKLY A NONPARTISAN PUBLICATION MINNESOTA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES • PUBLIC INFORMATION SERVICES VOLUME 26, NUMBER 6 • FEBRUARY 13, 2009

Vo t e r ID g e t s i t s d a y Is t h e r e a p a g e in t h e Ho u s e ? Th e s t a t e ’s c o n n e c t ivi t y ‘Mi r a c l e ’ m a y t a k e a l e a p o f f a i t h

We i g h in o n b u d g e t w o e s HF584 - HF782 SESSION WEEKLY

Session Weekly is a nonpartisan publication of Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services. During the 2009-2010 Legislative Session, each issue reports House action between Thursdays of each week, lists bill introductions and provides other information. No fee. To subscribe, contact: Minnesota House of Representatives c o n t e n t s Public Information Services 175 State Office Building 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. HIGHLIGHTS St. Paul, MN 55155-1298 Agriculture • 5 Environment • 8 Law • 11 651-296-2146 or 800-657-3550 or the Minnesota Relay service at 711 or Arts • 5 Family • 8 Local Government • 11 800-627-3529 (TTY) Crime • 6 Game & Fish • 9 Metro Affairs • 11 www.house.mn/hinfo/subscribesw.asp Education • 7 Government • 9 Safety • 12 Employment • 7 Health • 10 Taxes • 12 Director Energy • 8 Housing • 11 Transportation • 13 Barry LaGrave Editor/Assistant Director Lee Ann Schutz BILL INTRODUCTIONS (HF584-HF782) • 19-23 Assistant Editor Mike Cook Art & Production Coordinator FEATURES Paul Battaglia Fi r s t Re a d i n g : Minnesota Miracle could change school funding process • 3-4 Writers Kris Berggren, Nick Busse, Susan Hegarty, At Is s u e : Study highlights Minnesota’s technology needs • 15 Sonja Hegman, Patty Ostberg

Chief Photographer At Is s u e : Voter ID bill heard and defeated • 16 Tom Olmscheid Photographers Pe o p l e : Pages — they do what needs to be done • 17 Nicki Gordon, Andrew VonBank Staff Assistants Pe o p l e : New member profiles • 18 Christy Novak, Joan Bosard Mi n n e s o t a In d e x : Wanna bet? • 24

Session Weekly (ISSN 1049-8176) is published weekly during the legislative session by Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services, 175 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155-1298. Periodicals postage paid at Minneapolis, Minn. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Session Weekly, 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, 30% post-consumer content.

On the cover: Perpich Center for Arts Education dancers, clockwise top right, Andria Melin, Davente Gilbreath and Megg Johnson perform “Trio” in the Capitol Rotunda Feb. 9. The student performances, as well as exhibits, were to show the tangible presence of the Golden Valley school in arts education, professional development and research.

­— Photo by: Tom Olmscheid FIRST READING

Accountability funding for all A ‘New Minnesota Miracle’ requires a leap of faith

By Kr i s Be r g g r e n School districts forced to shift around oes more money deliver a better their line items to cover things like special education and transportation would see relief education? Many Minnesota schools in dedicated funding components. are already doing more — or at Reine Shiffman, a board member of the D West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan school least treading water — with less. district, told the House K-12 Education Finance Division on Feb. 10 that her district had to shift $4.5 million last year from its Consider the Minnewaska school district Looking for a miracle general education revenue to compensate for in rural Pope County. It has posted some The “New Minnesota Miracle,” or HF2, special education, transportation and English admirable academic results, including 2007 would return the bulk of education funding language learner programs. Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment responsibility to the state as constitutionally As numbers of non-English speaking scores “significantly higher” than the state required, and relieve taxpayers of funding students and those in poverty rise — as is average. Also, it has a 99 percent graduation local operating levies. It would also minimize projected in every corner of the state — rate, despite a 43 percent free and reduced- competition among districts for a fixed amount districts could nip the achievement gap in the cost lunch eligibility — a marker of poverty of funding and build the education budget bud as early childhood education and all-day often linked with barriers to academic from the ground up based on actual needs. kindergarten would be funded through the proficiency. If enacted, parents, students, teachers and bill. But the district has struggled to stay afloat, administrators could see significant funding says Superintendent Greg Ohl, who calls changes over time. First Reading continued on page 4 himself a “fiscal conservative.” The district pulled out of statutory operating debt in 2007 by cutting staff, programs and extracurricular activities. Ohl pulled triple duty last year to save money, serving as superintendent, district business manager and a site principal. After four attempts, a levy referendum was passed last year to buy new textbooks, fund all-day kindergarten and reduce class sizes. A 32-year educator and district leader, Ohl says the “rollercoaster” of funding surges and deep cuts that have worsened since the 1980s is simply failing to meet actual needs, much less prepare his students to compete in a global economy. He is among those endorsing the “New Minnesota Miracle,” a bill before the House to reform education funding — even if it takes a tax increase to enact. “Because we do need to invest in education; it’s the best way to stimulate our economy,” said Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Roseville), the bill’s sponsor. “Education is the key to p h o t o b y t o m o l m s c h e i d productivity, according to Tom Stinson, our Superintendent Michael Lovett, right, and Board Member Lori Swenson from the White Bear Lake state economist.” Public Schools examine runs of potential funding levels for school districts as part of a proposed new education funding framework. They attended the Feb. 10 meeting of House K-12 Education Finance Division, where the “New Minnesota Miracle” was presented.

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 3 First Reading continued from page 3 Advocates say the new formula would be worth money. But in the end you still have to pay for the investment, even in these hard times. They things you care about and show your values Supporters of the bill say it is more know it could require a general tax increase that way.” transparent to the public. — but most Minnesotans are already paying Greiling credits a statewide coalition Currently the process is so complicated that more taxes to fund education through school of education organizations and parent as Ohl put it, “When you talk about a proration operating property tax groups, PS Minnesota, of a proration it’s hard not to see farmers’ eyes levies, according to with creating the bill’s glaze over at a truth in taxation hearing.” Mary Cecconi, executive ‘The stability of a republican form of blueprint — and that Almost every legislator, school director of Parents United coalition “is the gift that superintendent, school board member or for Public Schools, who government depending mainly upon PS Minnesota gave us.” principal in urban, rural and suburban said 91 percent of school the intelligence of the people, it is the “They all support districts alike finds something to like in the districts have passed levy duty of the legislature to establish — every type of school proposal, and many are willing to hold their referenda. a general and uniform system of district supports — noses and put up with what they don’t like. But Garofalo argues this bill. They all have But the plan would cost $2.5 billion to that even if a tax increase public schools. The legislature shall to plug their nose and fully implement, although it’s designed to raised $3 billion, the make such provisions by taxation or not like parts of it. My be scalable, or phased in over time with any Legislature would still be otherwise as will secure a thorough district hates the levy amount of new revenue. forced to make program and efficient system of public schools referendum offset. If “The current formula is totally busted. This cuts. “I wish I could you have a large levy [bill] absolutely is a step in the right direction. suspend the laws of throughout the state.’ referendum you’re going It’s absolutely an improvement,” said Rep. mathematics and make — Article XIII, Section 1, to lose $500 of it. But it Pat Garofalo (R-Farmington). He likes the this possible, but this is Minnesota Constitution will be paid for by the location equity index feature, and the change a session where we have state so you get property in how compensatory funding for children in to be coming up with tax relief. ... Some other poverty is dealt out, aspects that would benefit creative ideas to spend less, not more,” he districts would like to get rid of the location his largely suburban district. said. equity index. So there’s just plenty of things “But the big problem is the cost. And that’s “Money isn’t everything,” Greiling said. in here that everybody doesn’t like, but the part we really can’t get over. You can’t “There are always things districts can do to everybody agreed the total is worth it, and count on five billion Obama bucks coming change their culture and their philosophy and that when they benefit, everybody benefits. into our state or whatever it is paying for it,” how they’re doing things with their existing There are no losers in this bill.” he said.

Ch i n c h i l l i n ’

p h o t o b y t o m o l m s c h e i d Several hands, including those of Emily Johnson, left, and Rachel Farber, reach out to touch a chinchilla during the Minnesota Zoo’s “Zoo Day” in the Capitol Rotunda Feb. 10. It was a way for zoo leaders to thank legislators for their continued funding support.

4 Session Weekly February 13, 2009 HIGHLIGHTS F e b r u a r y 5 - 12, 2009

AGRICULTURE members on Dairy Day at the Capitol, the traditional time set aside for legislators to be updated on the dairy industry. Cows up, but profits down Milk prices may be up for consumers, but Sadie Frericks is just the sort of person the to the producer they are down to levels they dairy industry hopes to keep attracting. haven’t seen since 2002, while the cost of She and her husband are young, educated, production is on the rise. The international from dairy farm backgrounds, and they now banking crisis compounds the problem, maintain a 50-head herd on their farm near Lunemann said, because purchasers can’t get Melrose. the credit to stock their inventories. They also received help from two state Curt Zimmerman, livestock supervisor for programs designed to promote the dairy the Agriculture Department, said Minnesota and livestock industry — programs that are is the fifth largest exporter of milk products poised to receive a substantial cut in Gov. Tim in the nation. Pawlenty’s budget at exactly the wrong time, Rep. Al Juhnke (DFL-Willmar), division dairy industry supporters say. chairman, promoted his idea to fund the After four years of profitability and an increase two dairy programs through the governor’s in the number of cows and dairy farmers in the $50 million small-businesses grant proposal. state, several factors are colliding that could be “Agriculture is one of the few things that is devastating to the industry’s future. working in the state. … We want to keep you Pat Lunemann, president of the Minnesota strong.”

Milk Producers Association, brought Frericks — L. Sc h u t z to the House Agriculture, Rural Economies and Veterans Affairs Finance Division Arts Feb. 10 as an example of how well the Livestock p h o t o b y a n d r e w v o n b a n k Investment Grant and the Dairy Profitability Pat Lunemann, left, president of the Minnesota Enhancement Program work, and why full Milk Producers Association, and Sadie Frericks, Arts Board could become a nonprofit funding should continue. a dairy farmer from Melrose, speak to the House The Minnesota State Arts Board could be “We are in a crisis at the moment created Agriculture, Rural Economies and Veterans turned into a nonprofit, if Gov. Tim Pawlenty Affairs Finance Division Feb. 10 about the state has his way. by a perfect storm,” Lunemann told division of the Minnesota dairy industry.

Weigh in on budget woes Bemidji – 3:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23 Bemidji State University–American Indian Resource Woodbury – 6 p.m. The Minnesota House of Representatives and Center Gathering Place Central Park Ampitheater Senate plan to hold hearings across the state to 1620 Birchmont Drive 8595 Central Park Place hear from Minnesotans on Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s Brainerd – 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24 budget recommendations. The schedule of town Washington Educational Services Building–Board Bloomington – 7 p.m. hall meetings follows. Those who wish to testify Room Bloomington City Hall can sign up by going to www.house.mn, look for 804 Oak Street 1800 W. Old Shakopee Road the brown banner near the top of the page and Duluth – 9:30 a.m. Minneapolis – 6 p.m. click on Town Hall Meetings. Duluth City Hall–Council Chambers Minneapolis Park Board 411 W. First Street 2117 West River Road Thursday, Feb. 19 Little Falls – 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25 Mankato – 6 p.m. Morrison County Government Center–Garden Level Burnsville – 7:30 p.m. Mankato Intergovernmental Center–Mankato River Meeting Room Fairview Ridges Hospital Room 213 First Ave. S.E. 201 E. Nicollet Blvd. 10 Civic Center Plaza Marshall – 2:30 p.m. White Bear Lake – 6:30 p.m. Rochester – 6 p.m. Southwest Minnesota State University Lecture Hall White Bear Lake High School–South Campus Rochester Community and Technical College–Heintz 1501 State St. 3551 McKnight Road N. Center Commons Area 1926 Collegeview Road S.E. Moorhead (Senate Tax Committee) – 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26 Minnesota State University Moorhead–Comstock Coon Rapids – 7 p.m. St. Cloud – 6 p.m. Union Coon Rapids City Hall St. Cloud City Hall–Council Chambers 1104 Seventh Ave. S. 11155 Robinson Drive 400 Second St. S. Virginia – 1:30 p.m. Forest Lake – 6:30 p.m. Willmar – 6 p.m. Mesabi Range Community and Technical College–Small Forest Lake City Hall Kennedy Elementary School Auditorium 220 N. Lake St. 824 Seventh St. S.W. 1001 Chestnut St. W. Plymouth – 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20 Winona – 3:30 p.m. Plymouth City Hall Albert Lea –10 a.m. Winona City Hall–Council Chambers 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Albert Lea City Hall–Council Chambers 207 Lafayette 221 E. Clark St. St. Paul – 6 p.m. Worthington – 10:30 a.m. West Minnehaha Recreation Center Alexandria – 4 p.m. Worthington City Hall–Council Chambers 685 Minnehaha Ave. W. Alexandria City Hall 303 Ninth Street 704 Broadway

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 5 The House Cultural and Outdoor Resources in a 2007 law prohibiting solicitation of A companion bill, SF415, sponsored by Sen. Finance Division heard its share of the minors online. It expands the crime of Mee Moua (DFL-St. Paul), was scheduled governor’s proposed budget Feb. 9. Presented computer solicitation of children to include to be heard Feb. 12 by the Senate Judiciary by Minnesota Management and Budget, the “an electronic communications system, Committee. governor has proposed a $23.4 million cut from or a telecommunications, wire or radio — M. Co o k the 15 accounts overseen by the division. communications system, or other electronic “The governor is faced with very hard device capable of electronic data storage or Sex offenders off sites decisions with this budget situation,” said transmission.” Social networking sites, like Facebook and Ryan Baumtroug, a budget officer with “This bill adds cell phones as a result of MySpace, are not only for people to keep Minnesota Management and Budget. some instances that have occurred because in touch, but they can also be a place for One recommendation involves transitioning of text messaging and picture messaging,” unwelcomed guests. the arts board into a private nonprofit Bigham said. She said the proposed statutory For the second biennium, Rep. Karla organization, with board funding phased out. language is intended to be over-inclusive. Bigham (DFL-Cottage Grove) sponsors a No state funding would be available beginning Under the bill, an adult using a telephone to bill prohibiting site access and usage by any with fiscal year 2012. solicit a child for sexual contact, communicates registered sex offender. Concerns arose about the board’s in a “sexually explicit” manner or distributes Deputy Attorney General David Voigt noted administration of grants, federal funding “sexually explicit” material to a child would that MySpace recently said more than 90,000 and competition with its partners. be guilty of a felony. sex offenders have been removed from its site Mike Roelofs, budget division team leader The bill also changes a heading in statute to in recent years. “There is nothing to prevent for Minnesota Management and Budget, said “Electronic solicitation of children” to better them from going there in the first place,” he the transition to a nonprofit could reduce reflect the expanded nature of the offense. said. federal funding. They would still be able to It is currently titled “Internet or computer Approved Feb. 10 by the House Public administer grants, but because of funding, solicitation of children.” Safety Policy and Oversight Committee, those grant amounts would be less. HF130 was sent to the House Civil Justice Some of the governor’s other Committee. Last year’s version failed to get recommendations include: Se c o n d c h a n c e out of a conference committee because of • eliminating all state funding to the Humani- some unanswered questions. ties Commission; In addition to the social networking sites, • an across-the-board cut of about 5 percent offenders would be prohibited from using for the Council on Asian-Pacific Min- instant messaging or chat room Internet nesotans, Council on Black Minnesotans, sites. Chicano-Latino Affairs Council and Min- “For example, if you’re on an accessible nesota Indian Affairs Council; network that would allow you to play cards • a 72 percent cut to the Amateur Sports with somebody via the Internet, and there are Commission; chat rooms allowed in these gaming rooms, we • no change in funding for the Minnesota and wanted to prohibit that as well,” Bigham said. Duluth children’s museums; and “That was a point of concern by Rep. (John) • a 11.4 percent cut to the Minnesota Histori- Lesch last year.” cal Society. She said the most logical question concerns In addition, $118.2 million expected enforcement. as a part of the Clean Water, Land and “When you are a registered sex offender, Legacy constitutional amendment passed you are subject to unannounced searches of last November, would be split between the your person, house and car. We are going to Department of Agriculture, Board of Water extend that to the computer, PDAs and such,” and Soil Resources, Department of Health, she said. Metropolitan Council, Department of If enacted, the bill would not take effect Natural Resources, Pollution Control Agency until Aug. 1, 2010. and Public Facilities Authority. “Every year a registered sex offender is sent — S. He g m a n a notification letter,” said Bigham, who has been told that adding this to the restriction list Crime would have no additional cost. “Prosecutors have asked that we need to be able to prove they were notified in order to charge the case.” Child solicitation contact changes Awaiting action by the Senate Judiciary As technology changes, so do the ways that p h o t o b y t o m o l m s c h e i d Committee is the bill’s companion, SF403, sexual predators can contact minors. Ralph Crowder of Minneapolis joined a sponsored by Sen. Mee Moua (DFL-St. A bill held over Feb. 10 by the House Public consortium of nonprofit leaders and justice Paul). Safety Policy and Oversight Committee for system advocates that invited ex-offenders, — M. Co o k possible omnibus bill inclusion tries to keep their families and supporters to the “Second pace with the electronic advancements. Chance” rally Feb. 11 in the Capitol Rotunda. The event was designed to increase the To find out who represents you at the Capitol . . . Sponsored by Rep. Karla Bigham (DFL- awareness of the barriers facing individuals Call House Public Information Services Cottage Grove), HF129 closes a loophole with criminal records. at 651-296-2146 or 800-657-3550

6 Session Weekly February 13, 2009 Education The governor’s proposal, known as SMART, teachers just because they don’t want to go for “State of Minnesota Alternative Route to through the trouble of spending another year Teaching,” would implement a one-year teacher training a different teacher candidate. Tougher licensing standards training program with the goal of recruiting Melick countered that a teacher candidate A plan supported by Gov. Tim Pawlenty to mid-career professionals to teach math, science under the SMART program would be required tighten teacher licensure standards received and other disciplines where there are shortages to attain a license from a higher education mixed reviews from House K-12 Education of qualified K-12 teachers. institution, just like any other teacher. Policy and Oversight Committee members “The thought is that mid-career individuals Committee Chairman Rep. Carlos Mariani on Feb. 10. No action was taken. have very unique needs that are very different (DFL-St. Paul) said mid-career professionals Under the governor’s proposals, aspiring from an 18- to 20-year-old college student,” could be a good source of math and science teachers would be required to pass their pre- said John Melick, director of educator teachers, especially in an economy where high- professional skills test (known as PPST or licensing for the Department of Education. tech career fields are experiencing layoffs.

Praxis I) before entering a teacher training Melick presented the governor’s proposal — N. Bu s s e program. Currently teachers can enter a to members of the House K-12 Education program even if they fail the test — though Policy and Oversight Committee on Feb. 11. Employment they must eventually pass it in order to be No action was taken. licensed. Under the SMART program, Melick said Additionally the governor’s plan — part of qualified individuals would attend a summer DEED cuts questioned his proposed “Teaching Transformation Act” training program and then be provisionally Members of two House divisions took — would raise the minimum passing score on employed as a teacher while receiving additional testimony on — and criticized — budget the Praxis II certification exam that teachers training at night and on the weekends. They cuts proposed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty for a take to gain licensure, and it would put an would attend another summer program at the variety of programs run by the Department of increased emphasis on technology skills. end of the school year, after which they would Employment and Economic Development. Department of Education Assistant be eligible to receive their teaching license. The Officials from DEED-funded programs Commissioner Karen Klinzing said the governor has recommended $500,000 to fund told the House Bioscience and Workforce proposals would ensure that those lacking the program. Development Policy and Oversight Division the basic skills to be effective teachers are Jan Alswager, a lobbyist for Education on Feb. 10 that the proposed budget cuts come eliminated from teacher training programs Minnesota, criticized the program as opening at a time when demand for their services is up front. the door for unqualified teachers to enter the increasing because of the economy. John Melick, the department’s director state’s classrooms. “We’ve got a lot more clients because of of educator licensing, said some teacher “It shouldn’t be easy to be a teacher,” the fact that more people are going onto candidates accepted into training programs Alswager said. “We don’t want people welfare rolls, and people are being laid off despite failing the PPST go through three experimenting with our children.” that need new training,” said Bill Means, years of teacher training only to be rejected for She warned that the program might compel executive director of the Opportunities licensure because they still can’t pass the test. small school districts to hire unqualified Industrialization Centers, which would That observation caused Rep. Kory Kath (DFL-Owatonna) to question whether the PPST is really useful in determining who will make a good teacher. “If you’re getting these phone calls from superintendents saying, ‘This is an excellent teacher. How can we get them to pass this test?’ The question then is how is it a measurement of effectiveness of a teacher?” Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Roseville) asked whether it would be better to focus on getting as many new teachers into the field as possible at first and then cut some from the programs later if they’re not effective. Klinzing responded that it’s easier to provide support to teacher candidates while they’re in college than after they’ve already been in the classroom for three years but still don’t qualify for a license.

— N. Bu s s e

Recruiting SMART teachers A proposal by Gov. Tim Pawlenty to recruit p h o t o b y t o m o l m s c h e i d mid-career professionals to teach in K-12 Matt Reinartz, center, director of the St. Paul Youth Job Corps Program, and Tamara Downs classrooms was heard by members of a House Schwei, right, of the Community Design Center of Minnesota, listen as St. Paul Police Sgt. Ray Jefferson committee. talks about A Community Outreach Program. The House Bioscience and Workforce Development Policy and Oversight Division heard about several youth programs Feb. 10.

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 7 receive a $250,000 reduction under the No state funds are included in the bill, No specific appropriation amount is governor’s plan. which relies on additional spending from requested in either bill. Both were sent to the The OIC is one of 23 DEED-funded utility companies that are mandated to reduce House Finance Committee. programs slated for cuts. Many of the energy consumption, and corporations paying Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy) sponsors programs provide job opportunities to to help clean up polluted areas they helped the companion bills, SF34 and SF171, dislocated workers and other economically cause, Kalin said. respectively. Each awaits action by the disadvantaged populations. An amendment successfully offered by Senate Environment and Natural Resources “Keeping kids engaged in positive activities Rep. Denny McNamara (R-Hastings) deleted Committee. like a job means that we have fewer youth who references to “sole-source contracting” for — S. He g a r t y are recruited into gangs or committing crimes building and improvement projects. or doing other unproductive activities,” The bill also gives preference to projects Removing plastic from yard waste said Deb Bar-Helgen, who helps run the that employ people “at a living wage.” Kalin More stringent rules about how Twin Cities Minneapolis Summer Youth Program, which said trade workers and unions have said they metropolitan area residents dispose of yard provides job training to at-risk youth. It faces won’t be able to meet the immediate need for waste is the subject of a bill approved Feb. a $650,000 reduction under the governor’s workers. McNamara and Rep. Dan Severson 11 by the House Environment Policy and proposals. (R-Sauk Rapids) said the language was too Oversight Committee. At a meeting of the House Higher restrictive and could lead to geographical Since 1992, consumers have been prohibited Education and Workforce Development imbalance. from commingling yard debris with their solid Finance and Policy Division later that day, Division Chairwoman Karen Clark (DFL- waste. Disposal methods vary throughout the DEED Commissioner Dan McElroy said the Mpls) declined Severson’s motion to lay the state, but plastic bags are largely used to store reductions were necessary to help balance the bill over for the next meeting, saying that the waste for removal. When plastic is shredded state’s budget. several other House committees are due to with the yard waste, it remains in the compost “These are all good programs. None of them hear the proposal. generated at the resource recovery facility. were easy to make the decision not to fund,” A companion bill, SF657, sponsored In addition, haulers must pay an additional he said. by Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon (DFL- tipping fee if plastic is mixed with the debris. Bonnie Elsey, workforce development Duluth), awaits action by the Senate Energy, Sponsored by Rep. Paul Gardner (DFL- director for DEED, said programs that help Utilities, Technology and Communications Shoreview), HF403 would, beginning Sept. the largest number of people are being given Committee. 1, 2009, prohibit consumers, haulers and the highest priority under the governor’s — S. He g a r t y bag manufacturers from using or selling plan. yard waste bags that do not meet American That didn’t stop Rep. Joe Atkins (DFL- Environment Society for Testing and Materials standards Inver Grove Heights) from questioning the for compostable plastics. fairness of cutting programs designed to help Gardner said it’s an attempt to have “truth economically challenged people at the same Trail extensions in advertising” because there is a difference time the governor is proposing tax cuts for Public trails in southern Minnesota could between compostable plastics and labeling businesses. be expanded, under a pair of bills approved by practices do not differentiate between those “What I’m still waiting to hear is how we’re the House Environment Policy and Oversight that meet ASTM standards, he said. Keeping all sharing the pain,” Atkins said. Committee Feb. 10. plastic out of the recycled commodity will Sponsored by Rep. Rod Hamilton — N. Bu s s e also increase the quality and resale value of (R-Mountain Lake), HF60 calls for the the compost. Energy development of the Des Moines River The bill now goes to the House Finance Valley Trail, originating in Jackson County, Committee. extending northwest through Kilen Woods A companion, SF383, sponsored by Sen. Stimulus funding bill gets division OK State Park and Cottonwood County. It would Rick Olseen (DFL-Harris), is scheduled to be When the federal stimulus funding arrives, meet up with the Casey Jones Trail in Murray heard Feb. 16 by the Senate Environment and the state’s Office of Energy Security would County. Natural Resources Committee. be one of the local project administrators An advocacy group called Friends of the — S. He g a r t y responsible for doling out money to create Jackson County Trails would work with the jobs and improve living conditions for low to Department of Natural Resources to develop moderate income residents. the trail. Since 1998, the group has supported Family The House Housing Finance and Policy the expansion of trails in and around the and Public Health Finance Division approved city of Jackson, including securing $50,000 Potential care cuts evoke emotions HF680, the recovery bill, as amended Feb. 11 from a private estate and by holding annual Child care users and providers told the on a divided vote. cookouts. House Early Childhood Finance and Policy Sponsored by Rep. Jeremy Kalin (DFL- The committee also approved HF230, Division Feb. 5 that the governor’s proposed North Branch), the bill establishes key which provides for the extension of the Casey $10.3 million cut to child care assistance could principles for the use of the funds, including: Jones Trail in Pipestone. push children out of high-quality care settings money should be spent statewide; tracking Sponsored by Rep. Doug Magnus (R-Slayton), and close providers’ doors. of all expenditures; the amount of energy it authorizes the DNR to work with Friends They object to the assumption there was savings; number of jobs created; and the of the Casey Jones Trail with the goal of a surplus last year in a sliding fee child care wages of those hired as a result of the federal connecting the trail to Blue Mounds State Park assistance program used by thousands of funding. and Schoneman Park near Luverne. low-income working families. They said

8 Session Weekly February 13, 2009 the surplus is the result of technical issues In November 2001, Ryan Hoeft, a former number of hunting days in 2003 to five days. regarding how funds are allocated based on St. Louis Park police officer, was found dead Even with the seven-day compromise, more prior year numbers that don’t reflect actual from a gunshot in his police car at the base of than 1,000 signatures were collected from need. a hill. The medical examiner ruled it a suicide. hunters wanting the DNR to reinstate the “We want to make it crystal clear to the But Mary Hoeft believed her son’s death was nine-day period. members of this committee that there isn’t a accidental and was determined to set the Currently, the DNR commissioner surplus in the child care assistance fund, but record straight. determines the number of hunting days, that, in fact, there are 7,000 families who are Her trip to the committee began but the bill would change that rule to actual waiting for child care on the waiting list,” said after consultation with a different chief legislation. There is no Senate companion. Susie Brown, executive director of Child Care medical examiner and the lead accident The second bill held over was HF304, WORKS. reconstructionist for the state who made sponsored by Rep. Tom Hackbarth (R-Cedar), Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Roseville) called a determination that Hoeft’s death was which would let service members, including budgeting from the premise of underspent accidental. Armed with the information, National Guard members, who have returned funds a “very bad trend.” including a reenactment video, she again from federal active service within the past Testifiers said a proposed 3 percent asked to have the cause of death changed. Her 24 months to receive a permit to hunt does. drop in child care reimbursement rates to request was denied, and she took the issue to Hackbarth said many active service members providers plus a 3 percent increase in parents’ court, which said the statute would need to be are not present to apply for a doe permit during co-payments will hurt both families and changed for them to consider her request. the application period. Current law states, “The providers’ businesses. “For officers in the state of Minnesota who commissioner shall issue, without fee, a deer A tearful Molly Thoulious said that she and carry their weapons and chamber a bullet in license” for returning service members. her husband, who have four children, work their gun, and run the risk of death every day A companion bill, SF231, sponsored by Sen. three jobs between them and earn $50,000 because that gun could accidentally misfire Pat Pariseau (R-Farmington), awaits action annually, but still find themselves with a $319 at anytime, this is for them; so their families by the Senate Environment and Natural deficit each month and rely on the subsidy to don’t have to go through what we did,” Hoeft Resources Committee. cover child care costs. said. — S. He g a r t y Bridget Bicknel, who assists her mother, Before being approved and sent to the House a licensed care provider in St. Cloud, said floor, the bill was amended to be retroactive the state’s reimbursement to a nationally to Jan. 7, 2001. Government accredited child care program in St. Paul is This would allow Hoeft’s family to have $310 per week for an infant; it’s only $107 to a court consider whether a change of death Reimbursement bill draws controversy her mother’s program. statement should be amended on their son’s Proposed legislation designed to reimburse “If funds get cut more than they already have, death certificate. members of the Lessard Outdoor Heritage we won’t be able to sustain our business and The bill’s companion, SF190, sponsored Council for expenses incurred since they we’ll have to either not accept state-paid clients by Sen. Julianne Ortman (R-Chanhassen), began meeting last December was approved or we’ll go out of business,” Bicknel read from awaits action by the Senate Health, Housing Feb. 10 by the House Environment and a letter her mother wrote to the division. and Family Security Committee. Natural Resources Finance Division.

Susan Tenecyk-Stafki, executive director — L. Sc h u t z Sponsored by Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL- of Children’s Corner, said cuts could have a South St. Paul), HF18 would authorize up “harsh” impact, especially on rural Minnesota Game & Fish to a $150,000 transfer from the Department where child care centers are few and infant of Natural Resources’ water recreation care is even more scarce and costly. account to the council, charged with making — K. Be r g g r e n Deer hunt changes proposed spending recommendations for 33 percent A pair of bills regarding deer hunting were of the new sales tax revenue generated by a Death record replacement required held over Feb. 9 for possible inclusion in the constitutional amendment approved by voters One family’s multi-year struggle to have House Game, Fish and Forestry Division’s last November. their son’s death certificate changed has omnibus bill. The fund transfer would be used to resulted in a bill that would at least have the Sponsored by Rep. Steve Drazkowski reimburse council members for travel, lodging, issue considered by a court. (R-Wabasha), HF436, would require the meals and other expenses incurred as a result Current law makes it nearly impossible to Department of Natural Resources to extend of serving on the council, as well as DNR staff, make certificate modifications once a cause the first of two deer hunting seasons in which has an unfunded mandate to provide of death has been determined by a medical November from seven to nine days in Zone staff support. The funding would serve as a examiner. 3, which includes the southern portion of stop-gap until the first sales tax receipts arrive Sponsored by Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Delano), the Twin Cities metropolitan area and points in August. The constitutional amendment HF176 would make it possible for a court southeast. In 2003, the DNR reduced the allows for 1 percent of the revenues generated to consider a request to amend a death number of days to help increase the buck for the Outdoor Heritage Fund to be spent on certificate if it is determined the information population. Now hunters want the two days the council’s administrative expenses. is incomplete or incorrect. reinstated so they can hunt over the course of Some think that’s too much. Rep. Denny Mary Hoeft told the House Health Care two consecutive weekends. McNamara (R-Hastings) said he recalls and Human Services Policy and Oversight Winona resident James Panek, a member of last session there was discussion that only Committee Feb. 5 of her struggle to have her the Bluff Country chapter of the Minnesota 0.5 percent should be spent on the council’s son’s cause of death changed from suicide to Deer Hunters Association, said special interest administrative costs. “Don’t be surprised if accidental. groups pressured the DNR to reduce the that shows up again,” he said.

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 9 When the council receives its first installment There was disagreement as well over the probably much higher. He said that because of the Outdoor Heritage Fund, it would pay value of amendments offered on the floor. STIs often show no immediate symptoms, back the water recreation fund, Hansen said. Seifert said when large omnibus bills are many incidences go unreported. Rep. Sarah Anderson (R-Plymouth) considered, there is the potential for more Johnson presented graphs showing that requested an itemized list of council expenses. amendments. incidences of Chlamydia and gonorrhea are She is not opposed to reimbursing member Rep. Gene Pelowski Jr. (DFL-Winona) much higher in minority communities — expenses, but she advocated for accountability countered that amendments offered on the particularly in black communities. Current measures. floor leave little time for member review, and data shows that infection rates are also much Previous plans to hire an executive director that the committee is the appropriate place higher among women, but Johnson said this have been dropped, said Council Chairman for amendments to be considered. reflects the fact that women are more likely

Mike Kilgore, after some division members — L. Sc h u t z than men to be screened for STIs. criticized the need for “more bureaucracy.” The statistics were presented as part of Kilgore said another criticism of the process Health testimony on HF550, sponsored by Rep. stems from the DNR having administrative Maria Ruud (DFL-Minnetonka), which would duties for the council while also presenting require the Minnesota Department of Health requests for funding. Sexual infection rates rising to make recommendations to the Legislature The bill’s companion, SF119, sponsored Rates of sexually transmitted infections on how to reduce STI rates “significantly” by by Sen. Ellen Anderson (DFL-St. Paul), was in Minnesota are rising at an alarming rate, 2014. The committee approved the bill and passed Feb. 9 by the full Senate. David Johnson, an epidemiologist with the referred it to the House K-12 Education Policy

— S. He g a r t y Minneapolis Department of Health and and Oversight Committee. Family Support, told members of a House Committee members did not discuss Time limit for debate goes on and on committee Feb. 11. Section 1 of the bill, which would make A change to put a time limit on House Floor Johnson told the House Health Care changes to the state’s sexual education debate was expected to make for a long Feb. and Human Services Policy and Oversight policies for K-12 classrooms. That portion of 12 for members. Committee the number of Chlamydia cases the bill is expected to be discussed in other Members debated changes to the Permanent reported across the state has nearly doubled in committees. Rules of the House for about an hour in the last 10 years. Chlamydia is now the most A companion, SF273, sponsored by Sen. the morning Feb. 12 before recessing until common disease in Minnesota — even among John Marty (DFL-Roseville), awaits action 7:30 p.m. As of press time, no vote had been non-STI illnesses, like the flu, he said. by the Senate Education Committee. There were 17,057 STI cases reported to taken. — N. Bu s s e This and other potential changes to House the Minnesota Department of Health in rules governing procedure and acceptable 2007, according to Johnson, of which 13,412 were Chlamydia; however, he noted that the If you have Internet access, visit the Legislature’s conduct were approved one day earlier by the Web page at: www.leg.mn House Rules and Legislative Administration actual number of people infected with STIs is Committee. Some called the plan to place time parameters on a bill’s debate a way to gag the minority caucus, while others say that it will make for better and more informed debate. The change would expand the House Rules and Legislative Administration Committee authority. House Majority Leader Tony Sertich (DFL- Chisholm), who chairs the committee, said that as the committee sets the floor agenda, it would discuss how much time to allot to each bill’s discussion based on how many amendments to expect and how contentious the issue. When the time is up, however, “there would be no automatic mechanism to move us to a vote.” Amendments would be accepted “within the time-management we discuss,” he said. House Minority Leader Marty Seifert (R-Marshall) called the plan “a dangerous precedent,” saying the floor, oftentimes, is the only place where concerns of minority caucus members can be heard. “If we have a bill that p h o t o b y a n d r e w v o n b a n k impacts my community, I’m going to stand Deb Wilkens-Costello, executive director of the Family Tree Clinic in St. Paul, left, and Betty Nelson, there and defend my communities and my president of SAFEPlan and executive director of Outlook Clinics in North Branch, testify before the House Health Care and Human Services Policy and Oversight Committee Feb. 11 in support of a bill values. … It is the custom and usage of this that would help prevent sexually transmitted infections and teen pregnancy, study sexually trans- body to not limit the debate. It is our job to mitted infection prevalence and health care system costs, and create a responsible family life and be here and debate.” sexuality education program.

10 Session Weekly February 13, 2009 Housing Law The House Local Government Division approved the bill Feb. 9 and referred it to Transcribing video evidence the House State and Local Government Warrant enforcement attorney fees Action seen or heard on a tape should be Operations Reform, Technology and Elections Eighteen months after moving into their able to speak for itself. But that is not always Committee. “dream home,” Steve Palmer and his family the case in some Minnesota courts. Speaking in favor of the bill, Metropolitan began to notice water intrusion. Sponsored by Rep. Steve Simon (DFL-St. Inter-County Association Executive Director More than two years later the Woodbury Louis Park), HF212 would provide that a Keith Carlson called the requirement for resident still has a case pending against the pretrial filing of a written transcript of a law annual reviews “a needless occupation of time builder to honor a warranty and fix the problem. enforcement vehicle’s audio or video is not a on board agendas each year.” So far, he said it has cost him about $40,000 in prerequisite for admission of that evidence in Rep. Rob Eastlund (R-Isanti) questioned legal fees, and it’ll cost another $50,000 to go to a criminal trial or a DWI license revocation whether the bill would actually save local trial and possibly another $12,000-$13,000 if his hearing. governments money, and suggested that the family wins and the builder appeals. Then they It was held over Feb. 5 by the House Public division may want to set its sights a little may have to sue to get their awarded damages. Safety Policy and Oversight Committee higher. “I had a home warranty,” he told the House for possible omnibus bill inclusion. Its “This just seems like an awful small fish to Civil Justice Committee Feb. 9 at Woodbury companion, SF333, sponsored by Sen. Leo fry here in the circumstances that we’re in,” City Hall. “I bought a $583,000 house. I never Foley (DFL-Coon Rapids), awaits action by Eastlund said. thought I’d have to spend $40,000-$90,000 to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Welti responded that the bill represented ensure my warranty.” “There is no rule of evidence right now a first step toward giving local governments The committee road trip allowed members that requires a transcript as a condition of more flexibility. to hear from people that aren’t able to make it admitting a police audio or videotape,” Simon A companion, SF307, sponsored by Sen. to the Capitol. said. Rick Olseen (DFL-Harris), awaits action by Palmer was one of a dozen people to speak Simon said all state patrol vehicles, and the full Senate. in support of HF211, sponsored by Rep. many other police vehicles, have dashboard — N. Bu s s e Marsha Swails (DFL-Woodbury). It would cameras and there are “tens of thousands of allow homeowners who are successful in suing cases” recorded annually. “If every judge were Metro Affairs a builder or contractor for a home warranty to do this, there would be virtual paralysis violation to receive reasonable attorney fees in law enforcement of having to produce a and any other costs related to the suit. The transcript each and every time.” Dog park bill passes committee committee took no action, but is expected to Other problems, Simon said, include Dubbed the “Mighty Dog” bill by its have a future hearing on the issue in St. Paul. transcriber error and inaudible statements sponsor, Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL-South There is no Senate companion. made by the accused making it tough to certify St. Paul), HF297 would authorize the The problem, Palmer and others said, is the transcript. He also said the tape is the Metropolitan Council to administer a that builders, contractors and their insurance evidence, not the transcript. regional dog park permit program in the Twin companies will drag out a case, hoping a “Why would you want to review the script Cities metropolitan area. homeowner will exhaust their financial of a movie when you can watch the actual Under the provisions, cities and counties resources and settle for less than needed to movie?” asked State Patrol Maj. Mike Asleson. could receive $1 million in grants over the fix the problem. He said a videotape starts when the lights next two years to build, expand or maintain Ed Seifert of Shoreview said it cost go on, and troopers are required to use a new or established dog parks. Currently there $151,000 to fix water intrusion damage in his handheld audio during a DWI arrest. are approximately two dozen dog parks in $260,000 home that was under warranty. His Jill Garrison, a Second District Court the area. An 11-member advisory board contribution ended up being $77,000 when reporter, said tapes can sometimes include would allocate the grants. Participating legal fees and other costs were included. inadmissible evidence, without transcripts governmental units must provide $1 for each “I thought a warranty meant something, jurors may think they heard something $2 received. when it’s nothing more than a piece of paper,” different, and the Court of Appeals and Approved by the House Environment said Yvonne McGonigal of Woodbury. Minnesota Supreme Court have required Policy and Oversight Committee Feb. 5, the Nobody testified against the bill. transcripts of any audio or video recordings. bill was referred to the House State and Local

A second bill, HF412, sponsored by Rep. Julie — M. Co o k Government Operations Reform, Technology Bunn (DFL-Lake Elmo), would clarify intent and Elections Committee. It has no Senate of a 2004 law to provide that a lawsuit for a Local Government companion. warranty violation must be brought within Park and recreation staff from Minneapolis two years of the breach discovery, but cannot and South St. Paul said that off-leash dog be filed more than 12 years from when the One less mandate parks are an emerging trend that allows dogs warranty took effect. Bunn said one subdivision One legislator called it “an awful small fish to run off-leash and enables their owners to in law has a 10-year maximum and some courts to fry,” but supporters say a bill approved by comply with city leash ordinances while still have used that shorter timeframe. a House division will mean one less mandate exercising their pets. It was also held over for potential action. A for local governments. Chris Esser, South St. Paul parks and companion SF470, sponsored by Sen. Sandy HF269, sponsored by Rep. Andy Welti (DFL- recreation director, said as owners gravitate to Rummel (DFL-White Bear Lake), awaits Plainview), would eliminate a requirement the parks at the same place and time, “Friends action by the Senate Judiciary Committee. that local governments annually review their Groups” emerge.

— M. Co o k out-of-state travel policies. “Some friends groups will tell you there

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 11 are just as many dogs as children (in their getting officers trained, and Rochester has “a Rep. Michael Paymar (DFL-St. Paul) neighborhood),” Esser said. Separating pets fairly established program.” wondered what the costs would be to bring that are off-leash and small children is a safety “We know there is not parity regarding dispatchers “up to speed on this type of consideration. mental health issues; in law enforcement there referral.” The Minneapolis Parks and Recreation is a lot of disparity,” he said. “This training Mullery countered that the bill says the Board operates several dog parks, which really brings up the expectations for officers.” training may be offered, so if counties opt not generate more than $100,000 in user fees, According to the association’s Web site, to provide it for whatever reason they don’t according to Brian Rice, board attorney. South classes cost $500 per attendee in the Twin have to. St. Paul has sold 72 voluntary memberships to Cities metropolitan area and $675 outside the Rep. Debra Hilstrom (DFL-Brooklyn its dog park, Esser said. metro area. Center), the committee chairwoman, said Adoption of the program would be Rep. Tony Cornish (R-Good Thunder), the fiscal implications will be evaluated as the bill contingent upon legislators’ funding support Lake Crystal Police Chief, said the monetary goes through the process. from the newly created Parks and Trails request is “a drop in the bucket for what you’d — M. Co o k Fund, which resulted from voters passing the really need,” and many small towns couldn’t constitutional amendment to raise the sales afford to let their officers go for a week. He Taxes and use tax. also believes that 99 percent of the cops that “I would think that the first thing we would handle these types of situations handle them think about doing is putting some money in correctly, “whether it’s use of force or deadly Tax priority discussion continues the maintenance of our trails and our parks force.” In two meetings, the House Taxes throughout the state before we go off in this — M. Co o k Committee has gotten through only two direction,” said Rep. Denny McNamara provisions in the governor’s proposed budget (R-Hastings), who voted against the bill. Mental health 911 assistance because of lengthy discussions. During the committee’s Feb. 10 meeting, — S. He g a r t y When someone calls 911, it is usually for police, fire or ambulance service. Revenue Commissioner Ward Einess explained Safety A bill sponsored by Rep. Joe Mullery (DFL- the reinvestment tax credit that would Mpls) would add mental health crisis teams encourage job growth and new investments to the list of emergency 911 responders, where in Minnesota businesses. The credit would Crisis intervention training grants available. be capped at $50 million and there would be Sue Hanson’s 34-year-old son has “I think we’re all aware of the need for a one-time General Fund revenue reduction schizophrenia. quick responses when somebody is having in fiscal year 2010. “We’ve had police to our home at least eight an emergency because of their mental illness, “Tax cuts are spending,” said Rep. Ann times. It’s involved three different suburban and we need to have them referred to a mental Lenczewski (DFL-Bloomington), committee police departments and two different areas of health crisis team,” Mullery said. chairwoman. “So we either need to raise the Minneapolis Police Department. … The Approved Feb. 5 by the House Public Safety revenue or cut something else. It’s about response is always different each and every Policy and Oversight Committee, HF448 was choices. I don’t know that this is the right time depending who you call,” said Hanson, sent to the House Health Care and Human package.” who sits on the National Alliance on Mental Services Policy and Oversight Committee. It The governor’s plan would provide Illness of Minnesota Board of Directors. has no Senate companion. incentives for businesses that invest in their Sponsored by Rep. Joe Mullery (DFL-Mpls), Sue Hanson, who sits on the National businesses quickly, Einess said. Qualifying HF449 would provide $144,000 to fund grants Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota investments would include things like to local police departments to conduct crisis Board of Directors, said there is no one general machinery, equipment and furniture. intervention training. number to call for someone experiencing a Rep. Randy Demmer (R-Hayfield) said, “We Training would have to be at least 40 hours, mental health crisis. need to keep in mind about whether we’re including at least eight hours of scenario- She pointed to a collaboration between investing, or think we’re investing, or whether based role-playing. Other topics would Grand Rapids public safety personnel that has it’s an expense for something that’s a service include an overview of mental illness and resulted in a crisis team and police dispatched that we think people need to have.” He added the mental health system; an overview of for all behavioral health emergency calls. that a grant could create jobs, where a credit psychiatric conditions, their manifestations “Mobile crisis teams can go to a person’s might only save jobs. and treatment; and visits to psychiatric home, assess the situation and provide services Rep. Tom Rukavina (DFL-Virginia) asked, receiving facilities. to stabilize the individual who is in crisis,” she “Where is there proof that cutting business Approved Feb. 5 by the House Public Safety said. “There are urgent and crisis services at tax leads to job creation?” Policy and Oversight Committee, the bill was mental health centers and clinics, crisis homes To which Rep. Kurt Zellers (R-Maple Grove) sent to the House Health Care and Human provide a safe place where people can live for a asked, “Where can you show that raising taxes Services Policy and Oversight Committee. few days while they receive supportive therapy, actually produces jobs?” He used Broadway in Its companion, SF318, sponsored by Sen. Leo stabilization, monitoring and transitions to New York City as an example of how increased Foley (DFL-Coon Rapids), awaits action by other services. These are very cost-effective taxes have hurt the theater district there. the Senate Public Safety Budget Division. ways of dealing with a mental health crisis.” “Tax increases aren’t good for business,” Steve Wickelgren, president of the Minnesota The bill would also permit the county or Lenczewski said. “I’ve done many of the Crisis Intervention Team Officer’s Association, other governmental agency operating an things people on both sides have wanted for said the program has been implemented by the emergency 911 system to include mental business.” Minneapolis Police Department, a “small health crisis training among its system Most people say they want a balanced handful” of metropolitan area agencies are enhancements. approach, she said.

12 Session Weekly February 13, 2009 “It’s so important to have the debate,” project for a year or two,” Peter Bell, chairman “We could make the most minor tweaks to the Lenczewski said. “This is hard. We need bills of the Metropolitan Council, told the House line at this point. Things that wouldn’t cause that get signed in the end that balance the Capital Investment Finance Division Feb. 5. a new environmental impact study.” budget. We need to think it through a little Members asked if the line could be re-routed Additionally the route gets a 50 percent bit.” slightly near the Capitol because pedestrian match in federal funding, and the restrictions

—S. He g m a n access will be limited across University could cause other problems. Avenue. “Other states have bypassed the money Airport back on the tax rolls “I think others need to be brought into that and have said, ‘We’re building it ourselves,’ Reattaching the St. Paul airport to the city conversation because it has a boomeranging because of the severe restrictions that the and school district tax bases could give the effect on other potential designs down the federal dollars bring,” she said. state more money to balance its budget. road,” Rep. Loren Solberg (DFL-Grand — S. He g m a n Held over Feb. 11 by the House Property Rapids) said. and Local Sales Tax Division for possible Capitol restoration plans have not been Keeping youngsters safe omnibus bill inclusion, HF393, sponsored by completed and members worried that the rail Investing less than the cost of a tank of Rep. Sheldon Johnson (DFL-St. Paul), would line could affect those plans as well. gas could better ensure a child has every require that taxable property at the St. Paul Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL-St. Paul), division opportunity afforded them. intermediate airport, known as Holman chairwoman, said some representatives For Brynn Duncan the legislation would Field, be considered part of the city and school recently discovered that the line is scheduled come too late. district tax base for taxes payable after 2010. to go just north of the Capitol down University Restrained with only a seat belt, as required This property was “detached” from the two Avenue, through a trench that will have to be by state law, the 7-year-old was riding in her tax bases in 1996. dug. It can’t go too far down, she said, because grandmother’s car when it was involved in a Properties at Holman Field now pay there are tunnels there, but it’s enough that crash on Aug. 18, 2008. The impact snapped only for county and special taxing district there won’t be pedestrian access across the Brynn’s body in half, tearing her spinal cord property taxes, which is also the case for the street behind the Capitol. “That plus the at the waist, severing an intestine, bruising her Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. fact that we won’t have Capitol restoration heart and damaging a kidney. Doctors said she The difference is the international airport completed; it has, of course, made some was fortunate to survive, but the Moorhead does not pay school or city property tax people a little nervous about the timing of our girl is paralyzed. because it is federal property. work not being ready for light rail.” Current law says a child passenger restraint The state aid reduction for the city would Bell said a change to the route would mean system is required for children under age 4, be about $60,000 for each fiscal year. The a whole new batch of environmental analysis. at which point they can be buckled in with proposal would increase homestead property taxes, resulting in a small increase in property tax refunds paid by the state. Wendy Underwood, St. Paul’s chief lobbyist, said the city currently doesn’t have a position on the bill. In lieu of taxes, the city receives a $72,000 cash payment each year for fire and police coverage at Holman Field, she said. Property tax estimates for the airport would be just under $100,000 to the city for 2009, but because levy limits have already been set, a change would affect the city’s current projected budget. “Unless we have a clear position from the city, it’s hard for me to get in the middle of this when it should be a local issue,” said Rep. Morrie Lanning (R-Moorhead). A companion, SF167, sponsored by Sen. Sandy Pappas (DFL-St. Paul), awaits action by the Senate Taxes Committee.

— S. He g m a n

Transportation

Corridor route by Capitol questioned Plans for the Central Corridor light rail line between Minneapolis and St. Paul can’t p h o t o b y t o m o l m s c h e i d be changed without wasting time and money Abbie Swanson, 6, properly sits in a car seat equipped with a booster seat, as Gail Weinholzer, direc- the state doesn’t have. tor of public affairs for AAA Minnesota/Iowa, explains the proper positioning of the seat belt on a “To change the route would be a major child. The House Transportation and Transit Policy and Oversight Division approved a bill Feb. 11 that would require usage of a child passenger restraint for certain youth. fundamental change that would delay the

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 13 a regular seatbelt. Minnesota is one of six north to County State-Aid Highway 5 in to the state annually, and contributes roughly $4 states that does not have a supplemental child Clearbrook. billion to the state’s economy each year; a recent restraint law. “The Bagley American Legion has the funds study indicates the city has the highest per-capita However, a bill sponsored by Rep. Melissa to pay for the signs,” Sailer said. concentration of high-tech businesses in the Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park) and Sen. An amendment successfully offered by Rep. country; and that a 2007 survey of southeast Jim Carlson (DFL-Eagan) would require that Bernie Lieder (DFL-Crookston), would give Minnesota residents indicated that 91 percent youth be in a restraint system until their eighth the Department of Transportation permission believe it is important that a high-speed route birthday or they reach 4 feet 9 inches tall. to remove a memorial highway sign if it needs include a Rochester stop. Approved Feb. 11 by the House maintenance and a reasonable attempt has The companion bills, SF101, sponsored Transportation and Transit Policy and been made to obtain necessary funds from by Sen. Katie Sieben (DFL-Newport), and Oversight Division, HF267 was sent to the nonstate sources for repair or replacement. SF156, sponsored by Sen. Ann Lynch (DFL- House Public Safety Policy and Oversight “Sometimes it happens where in 20, 30 years Rochester), were scheduled to be heard Feb. Committee. A companion bill, SF99, awaits the people that requested the sign are gone and 12 by the Transit Subdivision of the Senate action by the Senate Finance Committee. no one else knows,” he said. Transportation Budget and Policy Division.

Gail Weinholzer, director of public affairs — M. Co o k — M. Co o k for AAA Minnesota/Iowa, said an improperly fitted adult safety belt could cause the lap belt High-speed rail route funding Honoring a longtime legislator to ride up over the stomach and the shoulder A potential route for a high-speed rail A longtime representative and former belt to cut across the neck. If the shoulder service between the Twin Cities to Chicago speaker could have his name attached to a strap is uncomfortable, children often place remains up for debate. northern Minnesota highway. it behind their backs, further defeating the Supporters of one bill heard by the “This is a special bill honoring a special safety benefits of the system. House Transportation Finance and Policy person,” said Rep. Tom Anzelc (DFL-Balsam Supporters said a backless booster seat, which Division Feb. 10 want it to follow the corridor Township). raises a child so the belt properly goes across the designated by the Midwest Interstate Passenger He sponsors HF110, which would shoulders and hips, costs less than $20. Rail Commission. However, a group from designate Trunk Highway 53 from Virginia It would be a petty misdemeanor to violate Rochester told the division not to forget about to International Falls as the “Speaker Irvin the law, with the driver fined up to $50. the state’s third-largest city. N. Anderson Memorial Highway.” However, the fine would be waived if the Both bills were held over for a possible Amended and approved Feb. 10 by the driver proves within 14 days that a system has referral to the House Capital Investment House Transportation Finance and Policy been purchased for use by the operator. Finance Division. Division, the bill was sent to the House Finance — M. Co o k Sponsored by Rep. Leon Lillie (DFL-North Committee. A companion, SF335, sponsored by St. Paul), HF259 would authorize $10 million Sen. Tom Saxhaug (DFL-Grand Rapids), was Clearwater County vets highway in general obligation bonds for the state’s passed 63-0 by the Senate Feb. 12. More than 28 miles of northern Minnesota share of an environmental analysis of a high- “Speaker Anderson passed away in trunk highway could honor those that have speed rail line between the Union Depot in November,” Anzelc said. “In one of those protected America. St. Paul and the Windy City. As designated interesting conversations that I’ll never forget, Sponsored by Rep. Brita Sailer (DFL- by the commission, the route would be his spouse, Phyllis, asked about the possibility Park Rapids), HF121 was amended and through Hastings, Red Wing, Winona and of doing this. approved Feb. 10 by the House Transportation La Crescent. “My first thought was, ‘Well, Phyllis, the Finance and Policy Division and sent to the Michael Rogers, senior transportation Legislature really frowns on doing these kind House Finance Committee. A companion, planner for the Ramsey County Regional of things, but because it’s Irv, and because of SF451, sponsored by Sen. Rod Skoe (DFL- Railroad Authority, said the planned line his service to the entire state of Minnesota Clearbrook), awaits action by the Senate would provide six daily trains to Chicago, and his commitment to a multimodal Transportation Committee. create 1,570 permanent jobs and have $1.6 transportation system I’ll do my best.’” “In 1999, Otter Tail County veterans billion in user benefits. First elected in 1964, Anderson spent 34 designated a drive that ended in Becker County. Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL-St. Paul) non-consecutive years in the Legislature, In 2006-07, the Becker County veterans successfully amended the bill to require the serving from 1964-82 and 1990 until retiring replicated and continued this road up to the analysis include costs of a future extension in 2006. He was House speaker from 1993- top of Becker County, the bottom of Clearwater from the Union Depot to downtown 96. County,” Sailer said. “In the spring of 2007, Minneapolis. Nonstate funds must be used for the design three veterans organizations in Clearwater Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL-Rochester) doesn’t and maintenance of the memorial signs. County — the Bagley, Clearbrook and Gonvick want her community forgotten as a possible Rep. Bernie Lieder (DFL-Crookston), the American Legions — proposed to continue this stop. She sponsors HF124, which would division chairman, successfully amended the highway in Clearwater County.” authorize $500,000 in general obligation bill to give the Department of Transportation The proposed “Clearwater County Veterans bonds, so the Department of Transportation permission to remove a memorial highway Memorial Highway” would be about 1.5 miles can conduct a feasibility study of a high-speed sign if it needs maintenance and a reasonable of Trunk Highway 200 from County State- rail line between the Twin Cities and Chicago attempt has been made to obtain necessary Aid Highway 39 to its junction with Trunk through Rochester. funds from nonstate sources for repair or Highway 92 at Zerkul, and about 27 miles Among points made by supporters of her bill replacement. of Trunk Highway 92 from that intersection are that the Mayo Clinic brings 500,000 people — M. Co o k

14 Session Weekly February 13, 2009 AT ISSUE: Broadband access

Winona, that have run a successful broadband Connecting the state operation. Beard said the mapping survey, useful as Study highlights Minnesota’s technology needs a “snapshot” of current broadband capacity, might guide entrepreneurs who want to get into the market of building out underserved areas, but he’s cautious about committing By Kr i s Be r g g r e n public funds. “I would ask any (municipality) innesota’s invisible resource — its bandwidth that’s considering it to tread carefully. You are dealing with technology that’s not going to be — could drive economic growth as the state’s in the ground for 50 years. It’s in the air.” information technology infrastructure expands. Besides, he thinks the real grow th area will be M “G4” or next generation wireless technologies that can operate on bandwidth formerly A broadband mapping survey commissioned because it’s just how so much of the world used by analog television broadcasters. He in last year’s omnibus energy law is underway, operates.” said such telecommunications giants as assessing statewide telecommunications The Web-based survey compiles information Sprint and Nextel have paid $16.4 million for provider capacity, connectivity access and from the approximately 150 telecommunications wireless channels that will become available connection speed. Final results are due in June, providers in Minnesota, and connectivity speed for development after the digital conversion but preliminary findings show that 92 percent tests aggregated by a Connected National is completed by June 12. of Minnesotans now have potential residential subcontractor from information entered “While we’re making plans to sell bonds access to at least one broadband platform. by users at the Connect and take bids on pulling However, 8 percent, or 418,000 Minnesotans, Minnesota Web site, www. fiber optic to the remote don’t, Brent Legg, vice president of state and connectmn.org. ‘When we’re looking at an even corners of the state like the local initiatives with Connected Nation, the Project results could Boundary Waters, once nonprofit organization conducting the survey, position Minnesota playing field, it’s sometimes about we get this conversion told the House Telecommunications Regulation to receive economic making sure economic development done and people are going and Infrastructure Division Feb. 6. development funds from can happen even in areas where to start deploying G4, Rep. Brita Sailer (DFL-Park Rapids) said the anticipated federal distance is a real impediment.’ wherever people get a that many constituents have expressed economic stimulus TV signal you’re going to — Rep. Brita Sailer concerns about spotty or nonexistent Internet funds and last year’s get broadband service,” access that poses an obstacle to such business federal Broadband Data Beard said. activities as making resort reservations, Improvement Act, which Such new technologies telecommuting or doing online research. is intended to boost broadband availability as WiMax, short for Worldwide Interoperability One constituent told Sailer that because of and connection quality in underserved areas. for Microwave Access, could serve entire poor connectivity she had to drive 25 miles to The act also provides for up to 80 percent of communities up to a 6-mile range in a sort town to file quarterly business tax forms until implementation costs to local municipalities of expanded version of Wi-Fi networks that she signed up for satellite service. Although this or service providers building out access. allow Internet access in coffee shops or homes solved the problem, it cost $600 a year. Another for a 100-yard range. WiMax networks could was given permission to telecommute several Ahead of the curve eventually combine for a panoply of voice, days a week when gas prices reached record Some cities have tried to get ahead of the Internet and video services. levels last year, “but she couldn’t do it because curve by creating municipal broadband But Sailer isn’t convinced the buildup of the she doesn’t have high-speed service,” Sailer companies. old analog bandwidth will deliver the band- explained. Federal Express is no longer fast Rep. Michael Beard (R-Shakopee) recalled aid unconnected Minnesotans really need. enough for a Hubbard County photographer that a few years ago, Windom borrowed “I’m hearing when the digital conversion to get portfolio samples to clients, and he’s money, sought grants and passed a levy goes and this bandwidth is purchased losing business without the technology to send referendum to build out capacity using then everything will be wonderful,” she said. “I high-quality online images. state-of-the-art fiber optic lines to every have a little reservation. How many times a “When we’re looking at an even playing field, home in the city – but the city suffered when manufacturer, or a whole industry, has said it’s sometimes about making sure economic residents didn’t turn into customers. something would happen and it didn’t? I want development can happen even in areas where “The city is saddled with millions in debt,” to make sure it does occur and does in a way distance is a real impediment,” Sailer said. Beard said, pointing to other cities, such as that is statewide.” “Broadband makes such a difference now

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 15 AT ISSUE: Voter ID

No ID required House committee defeats proposal to require photo ID for voters

By Ni c k Bu s s e ep. Tom Emmer (R-Delano) didn’t waste time getting into the specifics of his voter R ID bill for members of the House State and Local Government Operations Reform, Technology and Elections Committee on Feb. 12. Instead, he made a very simple pitch: it’s about integrity.

Emmer argued that HF57, which would ID card free of charge from their local county require all Minnesota voters to present a valid election officials. Additionally voters who are photo ID at their polling place on Election unable to present a valid photo ID at their Day, would not only prevent voter fraud, but polling place on Election Day could cast a assure voters that the true outcome of any provisional ballot that would later be counted election is beyond doubt. if the voter could prove their identity. “If we’re truly proud of our elections … it’s Though the provisions are intended to imperative that we do something as simple as assuage concerns about making it harder for require a voter ID,” Emmer said. people to vote, opponents argue Emmer’s bill Opponents of the bill, like Hamline will do exactly that. University law professor David Schultz, Keesha Gaskins, executive director of the disagreed. They argued that a photo ID League of Women Voters of Minnesota, said requirement would make it more difficult for the bill adds another layer of complication people to vote and thereby suppress turnout to the voting process — one that will place on Election Day. Moreover, Schultz and others an added burden on senior citizens, disabled said the problem that the bill seeks to prevent persons and other demographics that already — voter fraud — is statistically insignificant find voting a difficult endeavor. p h o t o b y a n d r e w v o n b a n k to the point of being nonexistent. “The problems we have seen in Minnesota’s As Rep. Tom Emmer, left, the bill’s sponsor They were familiar arguments on what current election system are frequently a result watches, Hamline University Law Professor David has become an almost perennial issue. And of unnecessarily complicated systems that Schultz, right, testifies before the House State the end result was also familiar: the bill allow multiple opportunities for error. This and Local Government Operations Reform, Tech- nology and Elections Committee Feb. 12 against was defeated on an 11-8 vote by committee bill adds another layer of responsibility and a bill that would require voters to provide picture members. With the exception of Rep. Phil complication,” Gaskins said. identification before receiving a ballot. Sterner (DFL-Rosemount), all DFLers voted Research on this subject has yielded mixed against the bill and all Republicans for it. results. A study by Rutgers University and It must have seemed like déjà vu to Emmer, another by the California and Massachusetts and others have accused the report of using a who said he’s baffled why voter ID has become institutes of technology indicated that voter flawed methodology. such a partisan issue. ID laws do indeed discourage people from There are other, more practical objections to “We all want to maintain the integrity voting, especially among lower-income and the bill. Gaskins said providing counties with of our elections and make sure that people lower-education demographics. the staff and equipment to produce voter ID have the confidence in the legitimacy of the A University of Missouri study on a voter ID cards would have an unknown and potentially outcome — that if their candidate doesn’t win, law in Indiana, however, found “no consistent huge cost to the state. Meanwhile, Secretary they know it was a fair and honest election,” or statistically significant evidence” that the of State Mark Ritchie said that other states’ Emmer said. law had a negative impact on voter turnout. In experiences with the provisional balloting Under the provisions of his bill, voters who fact, it found that voter turnout had actually don’t already have a valid ID, such as a driver’s increased in Democratic-leaning areas Voter ID continued on page 23 license, would be able to obtain a special voter following its enactment — though Schultz

16 Session Weekly February 13, 2009 PEOPLE: House Pages

Is there a page in the House? They ‘do what needs to be done’

By Kr i s Be r g g r e n with ACORN (Association of Community rguably, the 24 House pages are the elbow grease Organizations for Reform Now). Two trips to New Orleans where she befriended locals still that keeps the wheel of House business moving. trying to rebuild their city three years after Unexpected amendments to copy ASAP? Hurricane Katrina really fueled her fire to A create wider access to the political system. Unscheduled testifiers to shepherd through a hearing? She is happy to be learning the inside Temperamental overhead projector needs a calm hand? game by serving the House committees: Commerce and Labor, Civil Justice, Public Need a bill jacket delivered pronto to a senator? Paperwork Safety Policy and Oversight and the House shuttled quickly to the chief clerk’s office? Labor and Consumer Protection Division. The job is “like no other” way to experience the “hands-on, nitty-gritty working of the “I think I call the pages every single day Political passion wanted political system,” said Van Eschen. at least three times,” said Erin Huppert, A page’s job “can be a little monotonous, legislative assistant to the House Public Safety but if you’re enjoying being here, it’s not like Policy and Oversight Committee and to Reps. Tongues in check work,” said First Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms Most pages have partisan tendencies but Debra Hilstrom (DFL-Brooklyn Center) and Eric Bergstrom, the page’s supervisor. Not appreciate the nonpartisan nature of their job. Kim Norton (DFL-Rochester). Pages may help surprisingly, one quality he sought as he sifted Luke Leadbetter, 22, a University of compile information, and are “invaluable” through 150 applications for the 24 spots was Minnesota political science major, has in committee, Huppert said, handling all an interest in politics. sampled political jobs, including an internship manner of unexpected tasks. Typical of those making the cut is Tricia Van with Sen. David Hann (R-Eden Prairie), and In Garrison Keillor’s words, pages simply Eschen, 22, a Hamline University graduate with most recently, staffing the Ramsey County “do what needs to be done.” a political science degree and job experience Elections office, where he was one of three employees that helped oversee the recount of 280,000 ballots. He saw his share of partisan sniping in the ensuing frenzy. “I’m a big fan of nonpartisan jobs,” Leadbetter said. “I prefer to try to see an issue from both sides before I tackle it from one.” Conversely, Liz Young, 25, admits she enjoys the “echo chamber” of a campaign office where she can speak her mind, but she is learning a lot from simply absorbing what goes on in committee hearings and getting to know legislative staff members. Possibly the most fashion-forward page, Young wears her scarves knotted the French way and heels that don’t prevent her from wheeling carts laden with folders through the tunnels of the Capitol Complex. As a Syracuse University French and political science major, she spent one year in France, then two years teaching in Japan, her mother’s birthplace. But the Minnesota senate race drew her home to p h o t o b y a n d r e w v o n b a n k volunteer for the Al Franken campaign. Among this session’s two dozen pages are, from left, Luke Leadbetter, Tricia Van Eschen, Vitali Gueron and Elizabeth Young. Each comes to the House with a varied background. Pages continued on page 23

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 17 PEOPLE: New Members

Former teacher returns DISTRICT 31B Davids is happy to be back after hiatus Population: (2007 est.) 36,538 Largest City: La Crescent Counties: Fillmore, Houston By Su s a n He g a r t y acclimating to the changes in today’s House. When is a freshman legislator not really a “I haven’t served with over 50 of the Top Concern: Equity in school district funding freshman? members,” he said. Ask Rep. Greg Davids (R-Preston), who was One thing that hasn’t changed is his reason elected to his ninth term for returning to public service. As a retirement in 2008 after a two- financial planner, he’s accustomed to helping his best to get voters the best bang for their year hiatus. He lost the people plan for their futures. The same is true money. previous election by less in public office. Though he isn’t a member of any education than 60 votes, but prior “Being the elected official, you can do so committees, the former teacher said equality to that, he served eight much more to help people. For me, that’s what between rural and metropolitan area schools consecutive terms. it’s all about,” he said. is his biggest concern. He’s also sensitive to “It’s kind of like riding Of the six committees/divisions he is cuts in education. In 1982, “I became a budget a bike. You get knocked assigned to, serving as the Republican Rep. Greg Davids cut of a downturn in the economy because of off the bike; you get lead for the House Cultural and Outdoor budget deficits, so when someone says, ‘We’re back on the bike and start to peddle again. Resources Finance Division has gained him concerned about our jobs,’ I understand it,” Little did I know that I’d be peddling into a the most popularity. He’ll be deciding how said Davids. $7 billion budget shortfall,” said Davids. to spend millions in dedicated tax receipts He and his wife, Bonnie, have been married Even as a true freshman in 1991, he missed for the outdoor heritage funds. Oddly, he for 30 years and have three daughters, one of orientation because he was seated in February worked diligently against the constitutional whom is also a teacher. after a special election. With eight years each amendment that authorized the tax increase, as a majority and minority legislator, he’s still but now that it’s passed, he said he’ll do

From NYC to Minnesota DISTRICT 33B

Business brought Doepke to state, led to public service Population: (2007 est.) 37,450 Largest City: Orono By So n j a He g m a n — eight years on the board and one year as County: Hennepin Rep. Connie Doepke loves being a a consultant. She had thought about being a Top concerns: Small business, legislator. legislator because she’d already spent several education, environment “I’m thrilled and honored to be here,” she years in public service and enjoyed it. said. “I found that I fell in love with public T h e f i r s t - t e r m service,” she said. Prior to being on the school then worked for a small company called New Republican from Orono board, Doepke spent 20 years working as an Hampton Inc., before Fingerhut “discovered” said she knocked on executive in the corporate sector. her and wooed her to Minnesota in 1993. She 7,500 doors in her “Being a working mother is one of the worked as Fingerhut’s vice president of apparel district after being hardest things in the world to do. Being a until 2000. endorsed in June to mother in general is hard,” she said. A time She hoped to serve on an environment replace former Rep. John came when she needed to be at home more committee this year, but that did not happen. Berns (R-Wayzata). with her children, that’s when she devoted her Nonetheless, she still plans to help in the Rep. Connie Doepke Among her committee skills to the school district. environment area because it is important assignments are seats on the K-12 education Originally from Michigan, a business to her district, which includes part of Lake finance and policy committees, an ideal fit for opportunity with Sears, Roebuck and Co. led Minnetonka. someone who has experienced the results of Doepke to New York City after college. She Doepke’s father was an environmental state action in the area. worked for several businesses during her 20 scientist for the state of Michigan. “I understand Before running for legislator, Doepke spent years in New York — Avon Products being the need to protect our environment for future nine years on the Wayzata School Board, one — as an executive and an officer. She generations.”

18 Session Weekly February 13, 2009 F e b r u a r y 9 - 12, 2009 BILL INTRODUCTIONS House files 584 - 782

Monday, February 9 HF595-Paymar (DFL) HF606-Hortman (DFL) HF617-Garofalo (R) State & Local Government Environment Policy & Oversight Taxes HF584-Paymar (DFL) Operations Reform, Technology & Fluorescent or high-intensity Political contribution refund State & Local Government Elections discharge lamp manufacturers repealed. Operations Reform, Technology & Billboard erection prohibited near required to organize collection and Elections road s a nd h ig hway s , a nd m a i ntena nc e recycling programs for household HF618-Murphy, E. (DFL) New billboard statewide moratorium of advertising devices restricted. generators, registration required, Health Care & Human Services established, and existing billboards efficient lighting program modified Policy & Oversight declared as nonconforming. HF596-Paymar (DFL) and money appropriated. Senior nutrition appropriation and State & Local Government client contribution use clarified. HF585-Drazkowski (R) Operations Reform, Technology & HF607-Clark (DFL) State & Local Government Elections Environment Policy & Oversight HF619-Hornstein (DFL) Operations Reform, Technology & Billboard nonconforming use Polybrominated diphenyl ether manu- Finance Elections provisions modified. facture and sale restricted, and multi- P ubl ic S a fe t y De pa r t ment aut hor i z e d English designated as official state state clearinghouse participation to collect fuel decal fee for Interna- language. HF597-Slawik (DFL) authorized. tional Fuel Tax Agreement, and cost Finance of decal rule removed. HF586-Drazkowski (R) Early childhood learning and child HF608-Kahn (DFL) State & Local Government protection facility construction and Agriculture, Rural Economies & HF620-Hornstein (DFL) Operations Reform, Technology & rehabilitation funding provided. Veterans Affairs State & Local Government Elections Industrial hemp industry development Operations Reform, Technology & Government employee salary and HF598-Eken (DFL) and regulation provided, possession Elections wage rate freeze instituted. Agriculture, Rural Economies & and cultivation of industrial hemp Metropolitan Council annual audit Veterans Affairs defense provided and marijuana by pr ivate c er t i fie d publ ic ac c ou nt a nt s HF587-Murphy, E. (DFL) Nursery law provisions changed. definition modified. authorized. Health Care & Human Services Policy & Oversight HF599-Murphy, E. (DFL) HF609-Newton (DFL) HF621-Anzelc (DFL) Sexual violence prevention demon- Health Care & Human Services Finance Environment Policy & Oversight stration grant funding provided. Policy & Oversight Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Northern pike spearing slot limits Human services commissioner license plate established. eliminated. HF588-Falk (DFL) required to modify the reimburse- Finance ment methodology for federally HF610-Peterson (DFL) HF622-Welti (DFL) Dawson-Boyd; ISDN 378; geothermal qualified health centers and rural K-12 Education Policy & Oversight Public Safety Policy & Oversight heating system funding provided. health clinics and implement related Schools required to use environmen- Local law enforcement agency grant initiatives. tally sensitive cleaning and mainte- established to develop or expand HF589-Lesch (DFL) nance products, and guidelines and lifesaver programs that locate lost or Public Safety Policy & Oversight HF600-Kalin (DFL) task force created. wandering persons who are mentally Driver’s license reinstatement Public Safety Policy & Oversight impaired, task force authorized and diversion pilot program created for Controlled substance offense mini- HF611-Kahn (DFL) money appropriated. individuals charged with driving mum fine disbursement authorized Agriculture, Rural Economies & without a valid license. to juvenile substance abuse court Veterans Affairs HF623-Slocum (DFL) programs. Disabled veteran-owned businesses K-12 Education Policy & Oversight HF590-Brynaert (DFL) designated as targeted group for Charter school provisions modified Taxes HF601-Slawik (DFL) purposes of awarding state and met- and charter school advisory council Mankato; sales and use tax modified. Finance ropolitan agency contracts. revived. Pre-kindergarten exploratory proj- HF591-Hansen (DFL) ects continued; family, friend and HF612-Lesch (DFL) HF624-Downey (R) Environment Policy & Oversight neighbor grants continued; and Commerce & Labor Transportation & Transit Policy & Reinvest in Minnesota Resources law school readiness service agreements Sick leave minimum standards Oversight Division modified. continued. established. Safe School Zone Law enacted, and clarifying and technical changes HF592-Thissen (DFL) HF602-Beard (R) HF613-Buesgens (R) made. State & Local Government Energy Finance & Policy Division K-12 Education Policy & Oversight Operations Reform, Technology & Audio electronic recordings provided, School districts enabled to focus on HF625-Gardner (DFL) Elections and cold weather rule technical cor- delivering academic services, and Finance Teacher retirement provisions amend- rections made. non-curricular athletic and fine Public access to data allowed by ed, contribution rates and state aid arts activity responsibility trans- state accounting and procurement adjusted, and terms redefined. HF603-Beard (R) ferred from school districts to local systems. Energy Finance & Policy Division governments. HF593-Drazkowski (R) Public Utilities Commission proceed- HF626-Bly (DFL) Public Safety Policy & Oversight ing provisions modified. HF614-Buesgens (R) Commerce & Labor Firearm permit to purchase from K-12 Education Policy & Oversight MFIP assistance extended, unem- fe der a l ly l ic en s e d de a ler rene wa l t i me HF604-Beard (R) No Child Left Behind Act implemen- ployment compensation modified, period extended. State & Local Government tation prevented. foreclosure provisions augmented, jobs Operations Reform, Technology & creation program established, layoffs HF594-Liebling (DFL) Elections HF615-Rukavina (DFL) limited and money appropriated. Health Care & Human Services Public employee definition modified. Finance Policy & Oversight Aurora; water treatment facility HF627-Juhnke (DFL) Human services commissioner HF605-Hortman (DFL) renovation funding provided. Finance required to establish and administer a Finance Veteran homes required to use Medi- universal prescription drug program Transportation Department man- HF616-Davnie (DFL) care Part D for pharmacy costs for and prescription drug bulk purchasing agement, priorities, research and Health Care & Human Services eligible veterans. program, dedicated fund established planning provisions modified. Policy & Oversight and money appropriated. Reproductive privacy right established.

February 13, 2008 Session Weekly 19 HF628-Rukavina (DFL) HF639-Fritz (DFL) HF651-Abeler (R) HF664-Welti (DFL) Commerce & Labor Taxes Health Care & Human Services K-12 Education Policy & Oversight State lottery director authorized to Medford; local sales and use tax Policy & Oversight Mental health model curriculum establish video lottery terminals; authorization imposed. Health and human services created. powers and duties provided to the finance board established, and board director; video lottery revenues pro- HF640-Rukavina (DFL) designated to receive General Fund HF665-Swails (DFL) vided; gambling taxes modified; and Finance appropriations. Health Care & Human Services clarifying, conforming and technical White; municipal water and waste- Policy & Oversight changes made. water treatment facility funding HF652-Kelly (R) Hospital construction moratorium provided. Environment Policy & Oversight exception provided. HF629-Juhnke (DFL) Bait and feed definition modified. Finance HF641-Peterson (DFL) HF666-Norton (DFL) Veteran home federal certification Finance HF653-Kahn (DFL) Health Care & Human Services application required. Office of Early Learning created. State & Local Government Policy & Oversight Operations Reform, Technology & Nursing home and home care regula- HF630-Juhnke (DFL) HF642-Kelly (R) Elections tions modified. State & Local Government Taxes Election provided of certain coun- Operations Reform, Technology & Solid waste management tax exemp- cil members elected by ward after HF667-Lieder (DFL) Elections tion provided for service charges reapportionment. Environment Policy & Oversight Animal cruelty prevention assistance imposed by certain cities. Red Lake County; tax-forfeited land restriction eliminated. HF654-Kahn (DFL) conveyance authorized for land that HF643-Champion (DFL) State & Local Government borders public water. HF631-Kahn (DFL) Health Care & Human Services Operations Reform, Technology & Commerce & Labor Policy & Oversight Elections HF668-Morrow (DFL) St ate lot ter y aut hor i z e d to of fer ga me s Medical assistance required to cover Fusion candidacies permitted. Public Safety Policy & Oversight involving sports wagering and sports doula services. Post-crash procedures provided for wagering pools, sports bookmaking HF655-Kahn (DFL) school buses in accidents. authorized under licenses issued HF644-Champion (DFL) State & Local Government by the director of the state lottery, State & Local Government Operations Reform, Technology & HF669-Bly (DFL) licensed sports bookmaking tax Operations Reform, Technology & Elections Finance imposed and a Minnesota active Elections Candidacy affidavit required to state Minnesota campus compact and recreation fund created. Home rule charter or statutory candidate’s residence address and tele- service learning grants funding city authorized to adopt a program phone number, and candidate place- provided. HF632-Jackson (DFL) requiring certain hiring practices in ment on ballot prohibited if residency Civil Justice city contracts. requirements are not met. HF670-Newton (DFL) Uniform Adult Guardianship and Finance Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction HF645-Mariani (DFL) HF656-Kahn (DFL) Compensatory revenue pilot project Act enacted. K-12 Education Policy & Oversight State & Local Government continued for certain school districts, High school students required to have Operations Reform, Technology & and money appropriated. HF633-Buesgens (R) education and career plans, college Elections Commerce & Labor readiness assessments allowed and Voting age changed from 18 to 16 in HF671-Dettmer (R) State lottery director authorized to post-secondary credits provided. state and local elections. Agriculture, Rural Economies & establish gaming machines and enter Veterans Affairs into a contract for the management HF646-Seifert (R) HF657-Thissen (DFL) Residency requirements eliminated and placement of the machines, Health Care & Human Services Policy Health Care & Human Services for veterans obtaining complimen- powers and duties provided to the & Oversight Policy & Oversight tary state park passes. director, and gaming machine MFIP electronic benefit transfers 24-hour customized living services revenue provided. modified, and commissioner directed modified. HF672-Dettmer (R) to apply for demonstration project Transportation & Transit Policy & HF634-Jackson (DFL) to give bonus for buying Minnesota- HF658-Hackbarth (R) Oversight Division Taxes grown foods. Environment Policy & Oversight Freeway shoulder use authorized by Minnesota agricultural property Natural resource fund account transit and Metro Mobility buses. tax law modified, new property tax HF647-Mullery (DFL) provided citizen oversight. classification established for preser- Public Safety Policy & Oversight HF673-Dettmer (R) vation and legacy land, and property Sex trafficking provisions clarified HF659-Hackbarth (R) K-12 Education Policy & Oversight valuation modified. by providing definitions of sexual Commerce & Labor Statewide academic standards for trafficking and sexual trafficking Farm winery provisions modified. physical education required. HF635-Hosch (DFL) victim. Taxes HF660-Morrow (DFL) HF674-Brown (DFL) Green Acres program 2008 changes HF648-Mariani (DFL) Finance Commerce & Labor delayed by one year. K-12 Education Policy & Oversight Railroad track rehabilitation funding State lottery director authorized to Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and provided. establish video lottery terminals; HF636-Drazkowski (R) automated external defibrillator revenue dedicated for education Rules & Legislative Administration instruction guidelines established. HF661-Torkelson (R) funding; powers and duties provided Per diem payments limited. Finance to director; gambling taxes modified; HF649-Abeler (R) Floodplain management money and clarifying, conforming and tech- HF637-Hortman (DFL) Taxes appropriated. nical changes provided. Finance K-12 education subtraction and credit Bottineau Transitway Corridor modified to apply to fees charged for HF662-Lanning (R) HF675-Hilstrom (DFL) environmental review funding extracurricular activities. K-12 Education Policy & Oversight Commerce & Labor provided. Positive child and youth development Insurance underwriting use of HF650-Abeler (R) grant program established, funding credit scores and other information HF638-Scalze (DFL) Health Care & Human Services provided and money appropriated. regulated. Environment Policy & Oversight Policy & Oversight Outdoor recreation system land sales MinnesotaCare CMF program HF663-Gardner (DFL) HF676-Laine (DFL) prohibited. established, and coverages provided Taxes Taxes t h roug h me d ic a l bene fit ac c ou nt s a nd Truth in taxation process notice and Columbia Heights; tax increment high-deductible health plans. hearing dates advanced. financing duration extended to 10 years.

20 Session Weekly February 13, 2008 HF677-Thao (DFL) HF690-Hortman (DFL) HF701-Hilstrom (DFL) HF711-Faust (DFL) Health Care & Human Services Transportation & Transit Policy & State & Local Government Finance Policy & Oversight Oversight Division Operations Reform, Technology & Ogilvie; ISD 333 authorized to con- Body art procedures and M i n ne s ot a C le a n A i r Ac t enac te d, ne w Elections duct an operating referendum more establishments regulated. motor vehicle decreased emission re- Minnesota Institute for Public Policy than once per year. quired, low emission standard adop- established to assist legislators and HF678-Peterson (DFL) tion required for motor vehicles and ot her pol ic y m a kers i n c re at i ng publ ic HF712-Thao (DFL) Transportation & Transit Policy & necessary updates provided to comply policy. Finance Oversight Division with the federal Clean Air Act. Saint Paul; Asian Pacific Cultural Veh ic le l ig ht i ng d i s pl ay requ i rement s HF702-Hilstrom (DFL) Center funding provided. expanded. HF691-Rukavina (DFL) Public Safety Policy & Oversight State & Local Government Summary data collection and report- HF713-Howes (R) HF679-Peterson (DFL) Operations Reform, Technology & ing required relating to decisions Public Safety Policy & Oversight K-12 Education Policy & Oversight Elections that affect a child’s status within the Fireworks limited personal use School required to notify a parent Vacation donation program juvenile justice system. authorized, affidavit of safety guide- when a student intimidates or bullies modified. lines required and criminal penalties another student. HF703-Hosch (DFL) provided. HF692-Kahn (DFL) Health Care & Human Services HF680-Kalin (DFL) State & Local Government Policy & Oversight HF714-Thao (DFL) Finance Operations Reform, Technology & Long-term care provider rate adjust- Health Care & Human Services Federal stimulus funding allocated Elections ments provided, phase-in of rebased Policy & Oversight for energy programs. Appropriation continuation provided facility rates modified, funding pro- Collaborative services established for until eliminated or modified. vided for nursing facility moratorium high-risk children. exceptions and project extension Thursday, February 12 HF693-Ward (DFL) approval, and human services com- HF715-Newton (DFL) Taxes missioner required to develop recom- Agriculture, Rural Economies & HF681-Hayden (DFL) School district referendum market mendations on specialized care. Veterans Affairs Health Care & Human Services value tax base altered and seasonal rec- Disabled veteran-owned businesses Policy & Oversight reational property taxation modified. HF704-Knuth (DFL) designated as targeted group busi- HIV transmission public education Civil Justice nesses for purposes of awarding program established. HF694-Marquart (DFL) Life insurance regulated, and certain state and metropolitan agency Health Care & Human Services stranger-originated life insurance contracts. HF682-Magnus (R) Policy & Oversight prohibited. Finance Health care directive registry HF716-Rukavina (DFL) Rock County; Nobles County; state established. HF705-Loeffler (DFL) Taxes rail line loan forgiven. Health Care & Human Services Tax provided on interest rates over HF695-Hilstrom (DFL) Policy & Oversight 15 percent. HF683-Rukavina (DFL) Public Safety Policy & Oversight Preventive health care promoted by Finance Marriage terms, procedures and forms re qu i r i ng h ig h de duc t i ble he a lt h pl a n s HF717-Haws (DFL) Mountain Iron; municipal waste- clarified, modified and specified. used with a health savings account to Finance water treatment facility funding cover preventive care with no deduct- St. Cloud Civic Center expansion provided. HF696-Dill (DFL) ible as permitted by federal law. funding provided. Environment Policy & Oversight HF684-Brod (R) Certain private sales provided to HF706-Thissen (DFL) HF718-Nornes (R) Taxes resolve trespass issues, area added to Health Care & Human Services Finance City aid base increased. and deleted from state parks, public Policy & Oversight Interstate 94 designated as POW/MIA and private sales of surplus state Retroactive payments authorized, Memorial Highway, and POW/MIA HF685-Nornes (R) land authorized, and previous sales additional elderly waiver services flag and interpretive sign required at Finance authorization and land description authorized and medical assistance each official safety rest area. Operation Happy Note grant modified. el ig ibi l it y de ter m i nat ion t i me f r a me s provided. established. HF719-Laine (DFL) HF697-Smith (R) Finance HF686-Lenczewski (DFL) Public Safety Policy & Oversight HF707-Hortman (DFL) St. Anthony-New Brighton; ISD 282 Taxes Law enforcement officers required to State & Local Government fund transfer authorized. Cities and towns authorized to issue record the country of citizenship and Operations Reform, Technology & certificates for unexpected revenue immigration status of felon arrestees, Elections HF720-Hilstrom (DFL) shortfalls. and peace officers required to report Absentee ballot rejection notice Public Safety Policy & Oversight suspected immigration violations by required to voter. Uniform Child Witness Testimony by HF687-Mahoney (DFL) felon arrestees. Alternative Methods Act adopted. Finance HF708-Falk (DFL) Saint Paul; Lake Phalen waterfall HF698-Smith (R) Finance HF721-Hornstein (DFL) funding provided. Public Safety Policy & Oversight Clean energy resource teams funding State & Local Government Child unattended in a motor vehicle provided. Operations Reform, Technology & HF688-Rukavina (DFL) penalty provided. Elections Commerce & Labor HF709-Nelson (DFL) Metropolitan Council restructured University of Minnesota; on-sale HF699-Demmer (R) Environment Policy & Oversight as a council of governments. liquor sale requirements modified. K-12 Education Policy & Oversight Duck decoy use requirements Teacher contract negotiation pro- modified. HF722-Thissen (DFL) HF689-Knuth (DFL) hibited during the school year, and Taxes Energy Finance & Policy Division failure to settle teacher contract by HF710-Faust (DFL) Tax preparation services law Strategic tree planting included as Jan. 15 penalty repealed. Agriculture, Rural Economies & modified. eligible for direct expenditures as Veterans Affairs energy conservation improvement. HF700-Demmer (R) Food Safety and Defense Task Force Transportation & Transit Policy & duties changed, Minnesota Organic Oversight Division Advisory Task Force membership JOBZ businesses allowed specific and procedures changed, and lan- service signs. guage requiring two annual reports eliminated.

February 13, 2008 Session Weekly 21 HF723-Murphy, M. (DFL) HF734-Sterner (DFL) HF746-Kohls (R) HF759-Bigham (DFL) State & Local Government Health Care & Human Services Taxes State & Local Government Operations Reform, Technology & Policy & Oversight Research credit allowed against the Operations Reform, Technology & Elections Corporate adult foster care and corpo- individual income tax. Elections Medical or psychological examina- rate child foster care disqualification Lobbying by former legislators, tion filing deadline extended, written bars extended. HF747-Kohls (R) constitutional officers and agency applications required and disability Taxes heads prohibited for two years after benefit provision amended. HF735-Sterner (DFL) Income and corporate franchise tax leaving office. Health Care & Human Services conformed to the federal treatment HF724-Kahn (DFL) Policy & Oversight of section 179 allowances. HF760-Ward (DFL) Health Care & Human Services Licensure law changed to include Health Care & Human Services Policy & Oversight professional counselors as licensed HF748-Gunther (R) Policy & Oversight Hospital-acquired infections re- mental health professionals. Higher Education & Workforce Minnesota Faith in Action permanent quired to be reported as adverse health Development Finance & funding allocated. care events. HF736-Pelowski (DFL) Policy Division State & Local Government Baccalaureate degree policy re- HF761-Kalin (DFL) HF725-Kahn (DFL) Operations Reform, Technology & quirement removed, and Board of State & Local Government State & Local Government Elections Trustees allowed to determine credit Operations Reform, Technology & Operations Reform, Technology & State agency names changed. requirements. Elections Elections Retirement plan cost study for County consolidation and internal HF737-Rukavina (DFL) HF749-Howes (R) post-sentencing officers conducted. boundary rationalization feasibility Higher Education & Workforce Finance study required. Development Finance & Akeley; culvert reconstruction or HF762-Eken (DFL) Policy Division replacement funding provided for Environment Policy & Oversight HF726-Murphy, M. (DFL) Rehabilitation counselors for the Trunk Highway 64 in Eleventh Crow Grasslands definitions repealed. State & Local Government blind certification provided. Wing Lake. Operations Reform, Technology & HF763-Reinert (DFL) Elections HF738-Pelowski (DFL) HF750-Sertich (DFL) Taxes Retirement terms defined, disabil- K-12 Education Policy & Oversight Finance Northern Lights Express Rail con- ity benefit provisions amended and General aid payments amended in Floodwood; business park develop- struction activities sales tax exemption technical changes made. districts with high online learning ment grant provided. provided. enrollment. HF727-Murphy, M. (DFL) HF751-Benson (DFL) HF764-Hosch (DFL) State & Local Government HF739-Solberg (DFL) K-12 Education Policy & Oversight State & Local Government Operations Reform, Technology & Taxes School districts authorized to create Operations Reform, Technology & Elections Exemption provided for pollution site-governed schools. Elections Correctional employee disability control equipment. Notice and public hearing before benefit provisions amended, terms HF752-Hornstein (DFL) adoption of interim ordinance defined and age limits amended. HF740-Mariani (DFL) Health Care & Human Services required. Finance Policy & Oversight HF728-Mullery (DFL) Statewide science, technology, engi- Adult mental health fatality review HF765-Loeffler (DFL) Public Safety Policy & Oversight neering and math initiative funding team established, criminal penalties Finance Animal fighting device or substance provided. for records disclosure provided and Minneapolis; Northtown Rail Yard possession prohibited. money appropriated. Bridge construction funded. HF741-Kahn (DFL) HF729-Poppe (DFL) State & Local Government HF753-Sterner (DFL) HF766-Shimanski (R) State & Local Government Operations Reform, Technology & Finance Taxes Operations Reform, Technology & Elections Minnesota Zoo improvements Special service taxation districts Elections Minneapolis Firefighters Relief Asso- funding provided. establishment deadline repealed. Town election requirements ciation and Police Relief Association changed. Employees permitted to be members HF754-Winkler (DFL) HF767-Downey (R) of the Public Employee Retirement State & Local Government K-12 Education Policy & Oversight HF730-Thao (DFL) Association. Operations Reform, Technology & Labor Day school start provision Health Care & Human Services Elections repealed. Policy & Oversight HF742-Hilstrom (DFL) Election complaint assessments and He a lt h pl a n s requ i re d to c over for mu- State & Local Government payment costs modified. HF768-Mariani (DFL) lary-based wound care required. Operations Reform, Technology & Finance Elections HF755-Simon (DFL) Child care assistance program HF731-Mullery (DFL) Instant runoff voting in federal, state Public Safety Policy & Oversight modified. Civil Justice and local elections provided. Felony theft added to racketeering Civil liability modified for labor and statute and identity theft added to the HF769-Liebling (DFL) sex trafficking crimes. HF743-Lillie (DFL) enhanced penalty for theft. Finance Finance Olmsted County; nursing facilities HF732-Dill (DFL) Ramsey County; funding provided HF756-Hortman (DFL) reimbursement rates increased. State & Local Government for restoration of channel connecting Finance Operations Reform, Technology & Round Lake to Lake Phalen. Coon Rapids; bicycle and pedestrian HF770-Shimanski (R) Elections trail funding provided. State & Local Government Brimson Firefighters Relief Associa- HF744-Mullery (DFL) Operations Reform, Technology & tion alternate composition permitted Finance HF757-Murphy, M. (DFL) Elections for the relief association board of Transitional employment training State & Local Government Term limits for state legislators and trustees. project funding provided. Operations Reform, Technology & constitutional officers established. Elections HF733-Dill (DFL) HF745-Kohls (R) Retirement and disability require- HF771-Mullery (DFL) Finance Taxes ments for Department of Transporta- Health Care & Human Services Policy School district swimming pool levy Charitable contribution subtractions tion pilots modified. & Oversight criteria eligibility modified. increased. Cohabiting couple estate recovery HF758-Persell (DFL) regulated. Environment Policy & Oversight Big Rice Lake; wild rice management cooperative established. 22 Session Weekly February 13, 2008 HF772-Atkins (DFL) HF775-Beard (R) HF778-Faust (DFL) HF781-Kalin (DFL) Commerce & Labor Finance Finance Taxes Medical examination frequency lim- Vehicle service fees credited to the School district with a negative fund Voluntary firefighter pension subtrac- ited for physicians of motor vehicle vehicle services operating account. balance authorized to hold a refer- tion created. insurers. endum election at a time other than HF776-Lesch (DFL) November. HF782-Sterner (DFL) HF773-Atkins (DFL) Civil Justice Health Care & Human Services Health Care & Human Services Uniform Foreign-Country Money HF779-Rukavina (DFL) Policy & Oversight Policy & Oversight Judgments Recognition Act enacted Finance Shaken baby syndrome training re- Health carrier definition clarified. and recommended for passage by the Contracted school food service quirements changed in licensed child National Conference of Commission- vendor requirement to make deficit care and child foster care programs. HF774-Knuth (DFL) ers on Uniform State Laws. payments eliminated. Environment Policy & Oversight Greenhouse gas emission registry HF777-Shimanski (R) HF780-Dittrich (DFL) provided. Finance Finance Departments defined for the pupil Management cost payment prohibited transportation equal treatment from permanent school trust fund statute. land proceeds.

Voter ID continued from page 16 Pages continued from page 17 the House Transportation Finance and Policy, and Cultural and Outdoor Resources Finance provided for in Emmer’s bill “is a nightmare “I’d kind of seen it as Paul Wellstone’s seat,” divisions. He teams up with Leadbetter, who that results in only one-third of those votes Young said. “Not ever in a partisan way but as also supports renewable energy technology being counted.” someone who stood up for people without a and public transportation, to serve the Nevertheless, Emmer said requiring voter voice.” She believes the drive “to take care of each House Transportation and Transit Policy and ID is a popular idea whose time has come. other” is the hallmark of Minnesota politics. Oversight Division. He points to a U.S. Supreme Court decision Vitali Gueron, 25, has also canvassed for These pages have their eyes on the next last year that found Indiana’s photo ID law a congressional campaign and witnessed step on their political journey — Gueron to be constitutional as evidence that many political tension on an international scale as mentions working on the governor’s race in of the objections to his bill are invalid. As to an intern with the Israel Project, a Jerusalem- 2010; Leadbetter, who speaks French, has the cost concern, he said it would be money based nonprofit. But the self-described applied for a job with the Canadian consulate well-spent. “political junkie” has learned as a page that or might join the Peace Corps; Young would “How much is too much to ensure the even partisan aficionados can keep their like to lobby for women’s rights or work on a integrity of our electoral process?” he asked. tongues in check when necessary. national campaign. He may, however, have to ask the question “People are surprisingly very civil,” Van Eschen wants to return to New Orleans, again next year. observed Gueron. A political science and possibly with AmeriCorps, and eventually A companion to Emmer’s bill, SF146, Hebrew studies major at the University of pursue public policy graduate studies at the sponsored by Sen. Amy Koch (R-Buffalo), Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Gueron was born and University of Minnesota’s Humphrey Institute awaits action by the Senate State and Local lived in Bulgaria until he was 8, then moved of Public Affairs. Meanwhile, she might be Government Operations and Oversight to St. Paul with his family. He recently spent the only person who wouldn’t mind if the Committee. two years working at the United Jewish Fund Legislature went into a special session, so she and Council of St. Paul. could keep working and start saving money Page assignments may reflect their personal toward those goals. interests. If you will be visiting the Capitol in the near future, But it’s more than a paycheck. For example, Gueron lives in a LEED- call the Capitol Historic Site Program at “My parents asked me if I would have to certified building two blocks from a light rail 651-296-2881 to schedule a tour. work a special session,” Van Eschen recalled. station, so he was a happy to be assigned to “I said, ‘You mean get to.’”

Minnesota’s U.S. Representatives in Washington, D.C.

First District Third District Fifth District Seventh District Tim Walz (DFL) Erik Paulsen (R) Keith Ellison (DFL) Collin Peterson (DFL) 1529 Longworth 126 Cannon 1130 Longworth 2211 Rayburn House Office Building House Office Building House Office Building House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-2472 202-225-2871 202-225-4755 202-225-2165 Fax: 202-225-3433 Fax: 202-225-6351 Fax: 202-225-4886 Fax: 202-225-1593

Second District Fourth District Sixth District Eighth District John Kline (R) Betty McCollum (DFL) Michele Bachmann (R) James L. Oberstar (DFL) 1210 Longworth 1714 Longworth 107 Cannon 2365 Rayburn House Office Building House Office Building House Office Building House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-2271 202-225-6631 202-225-2331 202-225-6211 Fax: 202-225-2595 Fax: 202-225-1968 Fax: 202-225-6475 Fax: 202-225-0699

February 13, 2009 Session Weekly 23 Mi n n e s o t a Ho u s e o f Re p r e s e n t a t iv e s

Pu b l i c In f o r m a t i o n Se r vi c e s

175 St a t e Of f i c e Building

100 Re v . Dr. Ma r t i n Lu t h e r Ki n g Jr. Bl vd .

St. Pa u l , MN 55155-1298

Sp e a k e r o f t h e Ho u s e : Ma r g a r e t An d e r s o n Ke l l i h e r

Ma j o r i t y Le a d e r : An t h o n y “To n y ” Se r t i c h

Minority Le a d e r : Ma r t y Se i f e r t

Fo r Mo r e In f o r m a t i o n Mi n n e s o t a In d e x For general information, call House Public Information Services at Wanna Bet? 651-296-2146 or 800-657-3550. Percent of adult Minnesotans who gambled in the previous year...... 75 To have a copy of Session Weekly Licensed lawful charitable gambling organizations in Minnesota in fiscal year 2008...... 1,290 mailed to you, subscribe online at: www. Combined locations for these organizations...... 2,934 house.mn/hinfo/subscribesw.asp or call: Billions in state receipts from Minnesota lawful gaming industry in fiscal year 2008...... $1.14 651-296-2146 or 800-657-3550. Percent decrease from 2007...... 9.8 If you enjoy Session Weekly, please consider Percent decrease from 2004...... 19.5 helping to defray production and mailing Billions in estimated illegal gambling in the state in 2008...... $2 costs with a biennial voluntary donation of Prizes awarded in fiscal year 2008, in millions...... $933.51 $20 or more. Percent decrease from 2007...... 9.8 Make your check payable to Minnesota Percent decrease from 2004...... 19.6 House of Representatives, and mail it to: Overall rate, as percent, of gambling prize payout in fiscal year 2008...... 81.8 House Public Information Services In 2007...... 81.7 175 State Office Building Millions in gross profit spent on “lawful purpose” donations in fiscal year 2008...... $92.26 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Millions of that total on taxes and fees...... $46 St. Paul, MN 55155-1298 Millions spent on “charitable” donations...... $38.9 Session Weekly online is available at: Percent of charitable donations that went to nonprofit festival organizations...... 34 www.house.mn/sessionweekly Percent to local units of government...... 23 Percent to youth activities...... 19 Subscribe to Session Daily e-mail Average percent of gross profit that licensed organizations spend on expenses...... 55.5 alerts at: www.house.mn/list/join. asp?listname=sessiondaily. State lottery revenue in fiscal year 2008, in millions...... $463.1 Profit to state programs in fiscal year 2008, in millions...... $116.26 Check your local listings to watch televi- Millions in fiscal years 2006, 2004...... $121, $101 sion coverage of House committees, floor For each dollar spent on lottery in fiscal year 2008, cents returned as prizes...... 60.4 sessions and select press conferences. Cents to the state’s General Fund...... 13.8 To obtain a copy of a bill, call the Cents to the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund...... 6.6 Chief Clerk’s Office at 651-296-2314. Cents for every dollar spent on the lottery...... 6.6 Millions contributed by the state lottery, through fiscal year 2009 for problem To learn about bill introductions or gambling programs...... $32 the status of a specific bill, call the Percent of Minnesotans, according to a study, who would feel comfortable talking to House Index Office at 651-296-6646. a friend or family member about a gambling problem...... 90 The House of Representatives can be found on States, including Minnesota, that funded problem-gambling programs in 2007...... 29 the Web at: www.house.mn. Individuals in 2006 who received state-funded treatment from problem gambling People who are deaf and hard of hearing treatment providers...... 1,150 may ask questions or leave messages by Treatment providers registered with the state to provide outpatient treatment...... 93 calling the Minnesota Relay service at 711 Number of locations...... 111 or 800-627-3529 (TTY). — M. Co o k Senate Information 651-296-0504 or 888-234-1112 Sources: Minnesota State Lottery Overview 2009; Annual Report of the Minnesota Gambling Control Board, Fiscal Year 2008; Gaming News, January/February 2009, Minnesota Gambling Senate Index Control Board; Department of Human Services. 651-296-5560