Brief floor sessions held
     Members of the Senate met for two brief floor sessions Mon.,
Jan. 22, and Thurs., Jan. 25.  The floor sessions were primarily
to process bill introductions and facilitate the movement of
bills between committees.  Members did grant final passage to one
measure on the Consent Calendar and preliminary approval to two
bills on the General Orders Calendar.  
     Bills on the Consent Calendar do not appear on General
Orders, rather the bills have been considered by one or more
committees and determined to be noncontroversial.  The bills on
the Consent Calendar are considered for final passage. S.F. 1846,
authored by Sen. Steven Novak (DFL-New Brighton), extends the due
date for the Legislative Coordinating Commission Electric Energy
Task Force report until July 1, 1996.  The measure was granted
final passage on the Consent Calendar.
     Two bills gained preliminary passage on the General Orders
Calendar. Bills on General Orders are considered by the Senate
acting as one large committee know as the "Committee of the
Whole."  Each bill has had two readings and has been reported out
of one or more standing committees. S.F. 1925, authored by Sen.
Janet Johnson (DFL-North Branch), makes several technical changes
to Housing Finance Agency statutes regarding single family
housing programs.  S.F. 1812, authored by Sen. Linda Berglin
(DFL-Mpls.), allows for the securing of vacant buildings through
electronic alarms.

Drug pricing bill debated
     Supporters and opponents of the Prescription Drug Fair
Competition Act had their say at a public hearing before the
Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee Weds. Jan. 24.
     The legislation under consideration, S.F. 410, gives the
commissioner of administration authority to negotiate contract
prices for all prescription drugs sold in Minnesota.   
     It also establishes a state drug formulary, or a listing of
drugs of proven safety and cost-effectiveness, to be used in
negotiating prices.  And it mandates the contract price be based
on either the average manufacturers price minus 15 percent, the
best competitive price, or a negotiated price, whichever is
lowest.
     Bill sponsor Sen. John Marty (DFL-Roseville) told the
committee the measure "has been the subject of a lot of
disinformation and misleading lobbying."  He called it a "fair
bill, a simple bill, that will deliver lower drug prices to
Minnesotans" by abolishing "discriminatory drug pricing."
     Another bill supporter, Dr. Glenn Pearson, co-chair of the
Minnesota chapter of Physicians for a National Health Program,
testified that prescription drug costs are almost three times
higher for poor families than they are for high income
Minnesotans.  He said it makes no sense for lower and middle
class Minnesotans to subsidize the well-off. 
     Dee Jones with the Minnesota Senior Federation told Senators
"seniors are often forced to choose between buying drugs, putting
food on the table, or paying rent."  She said, "all we consumers
are asking for is an even playing field."
     Michael Scandrett with the Minnesota Council of HMO's spoke
in opposition to the legislation.  He testified his group agrees
with it's goals, but argued it tries to address a "national
problem that cannot necessarily be solved here in Minnesota."  He
said the council is concerned with a provision that requires
disclosure of discounts and rebates.
     David Remes with the Pharmaceutical Research and
Manufacturers of America urged the committee to reject the drug
price bill, calling it a "form of price control" under which the
state could "dictate drug prices."  He said it would force drug
companies out of the market and lower the funding available for
the research and development of new drugs.
     No action was taken on the bill.  Committee Chair Leonard
Price (DFL-Woodbury),  said the hearing was for informational
purposes only.

Unicameral legislature proposed
     The Ethics and Campaign Reform Committee met Tues., Jan 23,
to take up legislation to move to a unicameral legislature.  The
committee, chaired by Sen. John Marty (DFL-Roseville) began its
meeting with a bill presented by Sen. Gene Merriam (DFL-Coon
Rapids).  Merriam's bill, S.F. 80, provides for an amendment
submitted to the people at the 1996 general election with the
question: "Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to provide
that the Minnesota House of Representatives and Senate be
combined and a single legislative body be created, beginning in
2003?"
     Merriam argues that his bill addressed many of the
criticisms of the current process, especially the conference
committee structure.  Many times, he said, members will pass a
bill so that it can be debated in conference committee, or add
provisions that will knowingly be removed during conference
committee hearings.  Merriam said that his strongest arguments
for a unicameral legislature include the lowering of costs
involved, the increased accountability to the public, the
adoption of a straight forward procedure which allows the public
greater access to the process and a lessening of the abuses that
occur due to the existence of a second body.
     Marty agreed that too much time is spent strategizing on how
to get bill through committee, leaving little time for issues. 
Sen. Roger D. Moe (DFL-Erskine), said that Merriam is a CPA,
leading him to want everything to be systematic and orderly.  The
Senate, on the other hand, "reflects different personalities and
perspectives," said Moe.  Sen. Ember Reichgott Junge (DFL-New
Hope) added her support for the bill, saying that a unicameral
legislature will force people to negotiate and put their
differences aside.
     Former Senator George Pillsbury testified on behalf of the
bill and suggested calling the single body the Senate, amending
the bill to specify the number of members to be no less than 99
and no more than 135, and holding off on the amendment until 1998
to allow voters time to consider its merits.
     Sen. Thomas Neuville (R-Northfield) presented S.F. 1859 to
the committee.  The bill specifies that session be held in
odd-numbered years only.  Neuville discussed conference committee
problems, mentioning the use of throw away provisions and the
time limits imposed.  Provisions are placed in the committee
report and members do not even know they have supported them
until after a vote, he said.  Additionally, "we need a system
where every amendment offered means something," said Neuville.  
     Senator Gary Laidig (R-Stillwater) moved to lay the bills on
the table.  The motion was approved.

<subhead>Editor's note
<indent>The e- mail address listed in last week's Briefly for the
Senate listserv for committee schedules was incorrect. The
following sets forth the corrected instructions. To subscribe to
the Senate listserv send an e-mail message to:
     listserv@senate.leg.state.mn.us
     In the message body type the following text:
     subscribe sen-schedules

     A welcome message with information about how to unsubscribe
will be sent to the new subscriber.
     

Committee update

Agriculture and Rural Development
Confirmation hearings proceed
The Senate Agriculture and Rural Development Committee met Mon.,
Jan. 22, to confirm gubernatorial appointees and discuss a bill
that exempts certain food sellers from the licensing law.
"Rural Minnesota and agriculture are in transition," Commissioner
of Agriculture Gene Hugoson said, "and the goal of the Dept. is
to serve rural Minnesota during these changing times."
Hugoson also pledged to work closely with legislators and other
departments to solve the problems farmers currently face. "We'll
have a Dept. that's flexible, open and willing to work with you,"
he assured members.
Chair Roger Moe (DFL-Erskine) asked what plans exist for producer
coops. Hugoson said that he supports the value added principle.
In addition to ethanol, the Dept. needs to look for other value
added opportunities, he said.
Sen. Steven Morse (DFL-Dakota) inquired about the progress of the
Dept.'s Management Analysis Division. Hugoson reported that some
changes have occurred as a result of MAD. "The Dept. of Ag has
more divisions than anyone else in state government," Hugoson
told members. But as a result of restructuring, four divisions
have been eliminated, he said.
Sen. Kenric Scheevel (R-Preston) raised concerns about the
difficulties livestock producers currently face. Hugoson told
members that livestock, and particularly dairy farms, top the
Dept.'s priority list. "We'll do everything we can to preserve,
promote and increase livestock in the state," Hugoson said.
The committee also reviewed the Governor's appointments to the
Board of Animal Health. Included in the five names were Sharon
Baker, John Howe, Theodore Huisinga, Joni Scheftel and Russel
Wirt.
     Wayne Marzolf, assistant commissioner of the Dept. of
Agriculture, submitted names of individuals appointed to the
Minnesota Rural Finance Authority. The list included Marlene
Malstrom, Curtis Pietz, Christopher Skaalen, Armin Tesch, and
Patrick Thiry.
Members approved all appointees and referred the motion to the
full Senate.
Turning to the business of legislation, Sen. Dan Stevens (R-Mora)
presented S.F.1801. Stevens told members that the bill's intent
is to balance regulations and food safety. The "common sense"
measure exempts food sellers at county fairs or farmers' markets
in cities with a population of 15,000 or less from licensing
requirements. The exclusion applies only to individuals who sell
for 10 days or less and collect $500 or less from sales.
     Tom Masso, from the Dept. of Agriculture's food inspection
division, and Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy) opposed the bill.
Vickerman, who told committee members that he contracted
hepatitis from contaminated food, said that in the interest of
public safety, the measure needed "to be tuned." Masso agreed and
urged the committee to add "non potentially hazardous foods" to
the bill's language.
     Sen. Arlene Lesewski spoke in support of the measure. Most
of the vendors are rural people facing economic difficulties she
said and the cost of a license would only impose further
hardship.
     The issue of risk management was voiced by Sen. Charles Berg
(DFL-Chokio). "It's hard to protect everybody from everything,"
Berg said.
Discussion of S.F. 1801 will continue at a later meeting.

Veterinary Practice Act changed
     A bill that changes the Veterinary Practice Act, S.F. 1982,
was approved by the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee
Weds., Jan. 24, and re-referred to the Health Care Committee.
Chief author Steve Dille (R-Dassel), himself a veterinarian, told
members, "this is the number one priority of the Minnesota
Veterinarians Medical Association this year, to get this bill
passed."
     Dr. Roland Olson, executive director of the Board of
Veterinary Medicine, testified in support of the measure. The
principle changes include immunity provisions, expansion of the
board's licensure authority and a provision that mandates
investigation cooperation. Under the bill, a person who is the
subject of an investigation is required to fully cooperate with
the board's investigation. Additionally, immunity from civil or
criminal liability is granted to members and employees of the
board, as well as persons submitting a report for investigation.
The bill also broadens the board's authority to revoke, suspend
or limit a license.
     Sen. Charles Berg (DFL-Chokio) raised concerns about the
board's expanded authority to discipline the offender. "It seems
to me that there is not enough due process here and that this is
too restrictive," Berg said.
     Dr. Barbara O'Leary, chair of the Minnesota Veterinarian
Medical Association spoke in favor of the changes. "We believe
the changes will help maintain the high standards of the
profession." She told Senators that the association's membership
supports the changes and that the legislative committee had
unanimously endorsed the proposal.
     Committee Chair Roger Moe (DFL-Erskine) pointed out that the
changes effect just a minuscule percentage of all veterinarians
-- those in violation of the law. "There is no extra reporting or
processing of paperwork for 99.5 percent of these people," he
added.
     S.F. 1801, carried by Sen. Dan Stevens (R-Mora), was
approved by members and re-referred to the Finance Committee. The
bill exempts certain food sellers at community events from state
licensing provisions. The vendor is limited to 10 days of sales
per year and may not receive more than $1,000 in annual gross
receipts. An amendment, that limits an individual to selling "not
potentially hazardous food" and requires a posted sign stating
that the goods are homemade and have not been inspected, was
adopted.
     Also re-referred to the Finance Committee was S. F. 2071, a
bill that changes provisions for  procedures governing
pesticides, fertilizers and aquatic pest control applicators.
"The bill makes changes for clarification and consistency," said
author Stevens. Most of the changes are technical, he added.
     The measure pushes back the expiration date for greenhouse,
nursery stock dealers' and agents' certificates from Nov. 15 to
Dec. 31. Furthermore, it changes the penalty for late renewal
application to 25 percent of the fee due.
     A specific section related to aquatic pest control is
established under the measure. The new section separates out the
aquatic pest control license from the pest control license
section. Finally, the definition of a "mobil mechanical unit" is
modified to exclude variable rate technology applicators.

Commerce and Consumer Protection                       
Childbirth benefits bill advances
     Legislation affecting health plans that cover maternity
benefits was approved by the Commerce and Consumer Protection
Committee Mon., Jan., 22.
     S.F. 1791, sponsored by Sen. Don Betzold (DFL-Fridley),
originally required every health plan covering childbirth to
provide a minimum of 48 hours of inpatient care following a
vaginal delivery and a minimum of 96 hours of care following a
caesarean section, if determined medically necessary by the
attending health care provider in consultation with the mother. 
The committee amended the bill to remove the "medically
necessary" condition and revised it to state that any decision to
shorten the time of inpatient care to less than the minimums
specified must be made by the mother after consulting with the
attending health care providers.  Sen. Kevin Chandler (DFL-White
Bear Lake) offered the amendment, questioning how the phrase
"medically necessary" might be interpreted by physicians and
health insurance providers.  Amendment supporter Sen. Carl
Kroening (DFL-Mpls.) said he wanted to let mothers have the final
say, rather than be "consulted with" by a physician.  Sen. Ellen
Anderson (DFL-St. Paul) agreed, saying physicians who work for
health care providers  sometimes have "incentives" to dismiss
patients early.
     Sen. Sam Solon (DFL-Duluth) said while the "intent" of the
bill was good, "I can see a lawsuit coming out of this if the
woman makes a decision and not the medical staff."  Sen. Edward
Oliver (R-Deephaven) said he opposed the amendment because it put
physicians in a secondary position.  Bill sponsor Betzold
supported the Chandler amendment, which passed on a nine to five
roll call vote.
     The bill was approved and referred the measure to the Health
Care Committee.
     Senators approved a measure, sponsored by Sen. Deanna Wiener
(DFL-Eagan), that prohibits a life or health insurance company
from discriminating against victims of domestic abuse.  Bev
Turner with the Minnesota Insurance Federation testified in
support of the bill, saying it would allow abuse victims to talk
freely with their doctors without having to worry about the
information being put on their medical records and affecting
their insurance coverage. S.F. 1815 was sent to the Senate floor
with the recommendation the full Senate pass it.
     The committee, chaired by Sen. Leonard Price (DFL-Woodbury)
also approved another bill, S.F. 2045, sponsored by Weiner that
exempts self-insurance pools established by insurance trusts of
the Minnesota Service Cooperatives from certain Commerce
Department regulations.  Glen Shaw, director of the Marshall,
MN-based Southwest-West Central Service Cooperative testified the
change would allow the cooperatives to form a trust and have a
"level playing field" with such insurance buyers as cities and
school districts, who are already exempt from the regulations.
The bill was sent to the Health Committee.
     Members also amended, approved,  and sent to the full Senate
S.F. 1040, sponsored by Sen. Don Samuelson (DFL-Brainerd), which
would permit a long term care policy to offer nursing facility
services and home care services.

 Crime Prevention
Community notification bill advances
     A bill that permits community notification of the impending
release of a sex offender was approved by the Crime Prevention
Committee Thurs., Jan. 18. The measure, S.F. 1560, establishes
risk assessment scales for determining appropriate community
notification, said chief author Randy Kelly (DFL-St. Paul).
     Prior to release, the correctional facility's review
committee will assess the likelihood of the individual to
reoffend and assign a corresponding risk classification:  level I
(low risk), level II (moderate risk) or level III (high risk).
The level of risk associated with the offender determines the
extent of disclosure, upto and including media notification.
Washington County Attorney Richard Arney spoke against the
measure. In spite of the bill's intent, "there's got to be a
simpler way, a better and more cost effective way" to accomplish
this," Arney said.
     Sen. Gene Merriam (DFL-Coon Rapids) expressed concerns about
the speculative nature of the bill. "It seems to regulate
somebody's life on previous misconduct and speculation of future
misconduct," Merriam said.
     Sen. Warren Limmer (R-Maple Grove) pointed out that media
notification applies only to individuals likely to reoffend, high
risk offenders. "These are very serious criminals," Limmer said,
"and yes, they have served their time, but we still have to live
with them."
Bob Meeks, representing the Minnesota School Boards Association,
testified in favor of the bill. Meeks said that the bill helps to
insure the safety of Minnesota's school children and staff.
 Two amendments were adopted by the committee. Sen. Randy Kelly's
(DFL-St. Paul) amendment expands the registration statute to
include psychopathic personalities; Sen. Richard Cohen's (DFL-St.
Paul) amendment temporarily suspends community notification
during the offender's judicial review. The committee, chaired by
Sen. Allan Spear (DFL-Mpls.), approved the measure and referred
the bill to the Data Privacy Subcommittee.

Liability limits set
     A bill that assures nonprofit treatment centers the same
level of liability that state agencies receive, S.F. 1702, was
approved by the Crime Prevention Committee Mon., Jan 22. "If you
want to retain the nonprofits as a partner, you've got to give
them liability protection," author and Committee Chair Allan
Spear (DFL-Mpls.) said.
     Bruce McManus, executive director of Reentry Services, Inc.
testified in support of the bill. Private treatment facilities
continue to encounter difficulties in obtaining insurance
coverage, McManus said. The centers, which receive patients under
court or administrative order, are unlikely to accept certain
individuals for fear of liability obligations. If a program
participant commits an offense, the nonprofit can be held liable.
"One suit could put us out of business," McManus said. "We can't
survive a suit."
     Tom Zoat, executive director of 180 Degrees, Inc., echoed
McManus' concerns. He told members that the shut down of a
facility would negatively impact the community. Furthermore, the
centers are cost effective alternatives to incarceration, he
said. "The savings benefit both the taxpayers and the community."
     The committee approved the bill and re-referred it to the
Senate Judiciary Committee.
S.F. 1872, carried by Sen. Linda Berglin (DFL-Mpls.), was also
approved by the committee and sent to the full Senate. The bill
requires peace officers to undergo training in community policing
techniques.
     Berglin told members that the legislation resulted from work
she had done with her community block organization. "They
identified some of the problems and came up with some suggestions
as to how to fix them," Berglin said.
     The measure requires the POST Board to prepare a course on
community policing that includes problem-solving techniques,
community organization techniques, and techniques for relating to
diverse communities, and physically or mentally impaired persons.
"There are a number of responses to problems," Berglin said, "and
going in to make an arrest might not be the appropriate
response."
     John Laux, executive director of the POST Board, told
members that he has concerns about the implementation of the
training. "Community policing is not a program," he said, "it's a
philosophy."
     Laux told members that during his six years as Chief of the
Minneapolis Police Department he promoted the concept of
community policing, but met formidable barriers to his efforts.
"To instruct 8,500 officers by Aug.1, 1997 is a difficult and
unrealistic time line," he said.
Linda Miller, from the Institute for Community Policing testified
in support of the bill. She emphasized that to insure the
program's success, it must be supported by middle and upper
management ranks. "It is a fundamental change in how services are
being delivered," Miller said.

Probation study reviewed
     The Crime Prevention Finance Division, chaired by Sen. Tracy
Beckman (DFL-Bricelyn) met Tues., Jan. 23, to review the
Legislative Auditor's evaluation of probation services funding.
The study resulted from 1995 Legislation that charged the Office
of the Legislative Auditor to conduct a "weighted workload study,
based on uniform workload standards and level of risk of
individual offenders." Furthermore, the office was asked to
recommend a method of probation funding that could be implemented
in FY 1997. Project Manager Joel Alter pointed out the study's
results to the division.
     There are 42 separately-administrated agencies currently
serving the state's 87 counties, Alter said. The nature and scope
of the services provided varies considerably, which complicates
the task of developing a uniform method of allocating state
probation funds. The number of presentence investigations
conducted for the courts, the frequency of contacts with
offenders and the range of duties for which probation officers
are responsible vary from agency to agency, Alter pointed out.
     Additionally, agencies use different approaches to evaluate
offenders, Alter said. Some agencies use risk-based models to
determine the supervision level an offender requires. Others base
evaluations on offenses committed and some determine
classification by examining the needs of the offender. There is
no consensus on which method is the best instrument for
classifying offenders, Alter told the committee.
     Few Minnesota probation agencies systematically measure and
report on the outcomes of their services, Alter told members. For
example, while many agencies classify persons on their risk of
reoffending, few agencies measure actual rates of recidivism.
The report also found that the use of probation varies from
county to county statewide. There were particularly large
variations in the use of probation for juveniles and adult
misdemenants, Alter said. Depending on the county, the number of
adults on probation per 1,000 residents ranged from 2.9 to 52.4;
the broad range reflects differing judicial practices, Alter
said.
The study includes plausible short term options for allocating
funds in the absence of a uniform offender classification system.
The report also recommends that the Legislature clarify the
state's probation goals, require service providers to report on
outcomes and keep more consistent caseload information, and
clarify the respective roles of county probation offices and the
Dept. of Corrections.
     DePaul Willette, director of the Board of Judicial
Standards, presented the Governor's supplemental budget
recommendation. The recommendation requests $100,000 in FY 1996
and $50,000 in FY 1997 for costs associated with the
investigation of a complaint against a judge. Willette told
members that without the additional funds, the board will not be
able to carry out its mandated responsibilities.
     Willette also asked members to review methods used to
determine salaries. The division plans to examine the question of
salaries at a later meeting.

Two bills advance
     The Crime Prevention Committee, chaired by Sen. Allan Spear
(DFL-Mpls.) approved two bills Thurs., Jan. 24.
     Sen. Ellen Anderson (DFL-St. Paul) presented S.F. 1457, a
bill that requires state agencies and departments to develop and
implement violence prevention plans. The measure contains
initiatives that address the core issues of violence, she said.
The bill calls for expansion of the home visiting program, 
grants for crisis nurseries and broadening parental leave
privileges to include school-related activities.
     Prevention of child abuse "is the cheapest kind of crime
prevention," Anderson told members. Studies confirm that children
who are victims of abuse are more likely to become adult
perpetrators of abuse, Anderson said. "Focusing on prevention of
child abuse is the most cost effective way of addressing
violence," she continued, "because we get more bang for our
buck."
Several witnesses testified in support of Anderson's bill,
including Jessica Toft, policy advocate, Family and Children's
Service; Dr. Stuart Hanson, Institute for Research and Education,
HealthSystem Minnesota; Casey Johnson, director, Anoka County
Crisis Nursery Association; and parents Barbara Galardy and
Bonney Gantz.
     The committee made changes to the bill before approving it
and re-referring it to the Crime Prevention Finance Division.
Members deleted sections that mandate insurance benefits and
adopted Sen. Jane Ranum's (DFL-Mpls.) amendment that establishes 
funding for the Higher Education Center on Violence.
     S.F. 1903, authored by Sen. Phil Riveness (DFL-Bloomington),
was also approved by the committee and re-referred to the
Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee. The bill creates an
Automobile Theft Prevention Board to plan and implement statewide
programs to combat automobile theft. The measure requires
insurers to charge a 50 cent fee per vehicle for every six months
of coverage.
     Dennis Roske, from the Minnesota State Patrol, testified in
support of the bill. "Several states already have auto theft
authorities and they've drastically reduced the theft rate and
the amount of money lost because of this problem." He told
members that 15,000 automobiles were stolen statewide in 1995. Of
the stolen vehicles, only 66 percent were recovered. "This
represents a $21 million loss to the people of Minnesota," Roske
said.
     Anderson objected to the imposition of the surcharge. "An
additional charge on already exorbitant insurance premiums is
unfair," she said.
     Riveness told members that insurance companies have lowered
rates to reflect the decrease in theft, in certain instances.
"The insurance companies, law enforcement and consumers all
support this bill," Riveness added.
     Sen. Gene Merriam (DFL-Coon Rapids) also questioned the fee.
"My concern is not with the program," he said, "it's with one
more tax."

Education
Bus restriction lifted
     School buses may be able to travel freely between districts
next year, due to a decision made by members of the Education
Funding Division .
     Senators continued discussion of S.F. 1896, authored by Sen.
Kenric Scheevel (R-Preston) at the committee's Jan. 18 meeting.
The bill was suggested by the Department of Children, Families
and Learning.
     The department wants to change a law requiring school
districts to get permission from another district when traveling
inside its boundaries to transport open enrollment students.
     Bob Meeks, of the Minnesota School Board Association, said
the law has a good purpose.  "(The law) keeps school boards
talking to work out agreements that work for everyone,"     he
said.
     But several Senators didn't support the approval
requirement. "The law appears to be a barrier to open
enrollment," said Sen. Martha Robertson (R-Minnetonka).
      Senators voted against approval of  a provision of S.F.
1896 that made it easier for charter schools to locate within the
borders of school districts closed to open enrollment.
     Sen. Gen Olson (R-Minnetrista) supported the provision,
saying school districts usually close open enrollment when their
buildings are full. She said it makes sense to force districts
operating at capacity to allow local charter schools. "Are school
boards essentially holding their own taxpayers hostage to force
the building of additional buildings, rather than having a relief
valve?," asked Olson.
     But Sen. Jane Krentz (DFL-May Township) said if the decision
were shifted to the state Board of Education, as the law
proposes, charter schools "wouldn't have to make a real effort to
try to be part of a community."
     At the suggestion of the committee chair, Sen. Lawrence
Pogemiller (DFL-Mpls.), the committee set aside several sections
of the bill that require all per-pupil funding to follow a
student leaving his or her resident district for another district
or a charter school.
     A key component of the bill converts all excess operating
levy referenda from tax capacity or mills into per-pupil amounts.
This sets the stage to allow state equalization dollars -- and
possibly local dollars  -- to follow a student who leaves his or
her home district.
     The department also wants Legislators to extend the August,
1996 sunset date for mandates on the number of school days and
instruction hours per year. If the repeal goes through, districts
will no longer be required to meet any state standard of
instruction time, said Tom Melcher of the Department of Children,
Families and Learning. "As long as we're providing money based on
how many students you're enrolling, we need some definition of
what a pupil unit is," said Melcher.
     But Pogemiller said he doesn't want to return to
state-mandated instruction hours. "We need a different solution
than
reinstating that -- that would be a major leap backwards," he
said. 
     Senators approved sections of the bill allowing Assurance of
Mastery levy money to follow students to new districts and
allowing school districts to borrow against capital revenue to
purchase school buses. No action was taken on the entire bill.

Bonding plans reviewed
     A bonding proposal to spend $20 million to house
after-school programs drew questions from members of the
Education
Funding Division at their Friday, Jan. 19 meeting.
     The "youth initiative" grants in S.F. 2055, authored by Sen.
Gary Laidig (R-Stillwater), provide money to repair, upgrade or
construct building space for after-school programs. The
enrichment or recreation programs, part of the governor's larger
anti-crime and education proposals, must be targeted at grades
four through eight.
     Half the money is dedicated for projects in Minneapolis and
St. Paul; the other half for the suburbs and Greater Minnesota.
Cities or school districts applying for the funds are required to
collaborate with community groups and match up to 50 percent of
the funds locally.
     Michael Melsted, director of youth development for
Minneapolis YMCA, spoke in favor of the idea, saying kids tend to
get in trouble in the hours after school but before parents leave
work.
     Several Senators said there's plenty of space available
already. "I'm a little concerned about this kind of money being
spent on bricks and mortar," said Sen. Keith Langseth
(DFL-Glyndon). "The schools empty out at 3 p.m."
     But  Sen. Sandy Pappas (DFL-St. Paul) said that in urban
areas, schools aren't within walking distance of home for many
students -- a feature critical for convenient after-school
programs.
     Sen. Larry Pogemiller (DFL-Mpls.), the division chair, said
eventually the problem of after-school free time needs to be
addressed by altering school schedules. "The school day does not
fit most family's schedules," said Pogemiller.
     Senators did not vote on the youth initiative grants. Later,
they will rank all bonding requests before forwarding them to the
Finance Committee.
     The committee also continued review of S.F. 1896, authored
by Sen. Kenric Scheevel (R-Preston), setting aside several more
sections relating to open enrollment and charter schools for
later consideration. 
     One section Senators set aside repeals a law prohibiting
certain students from attending technical college through
post-secondary enrollment options. These students live in
metro-area
intermediate districts which offer specialized high school
technical programs.
     Sen Gen. Olson (R-Minnetrista) supported offering PSEO to
technical students, saying, "Are the districts afraid a few more
people might attend a technical college and take the (state
per-pupil) dollars with them when they go?"
     The committee approved a provision allowing a consortium of
Chisago, North Branch and Rush City schools to spent $150,000 on
a year-round school pilot program. The money was left over from
last year's extended schedule grants.
     The bill remains in the committee until members discuss its
charter school, open enrollment and funding provisions.

Arts school seeks new building
     Senators serving on the Education Finance Committee
responded favorably to a request from the Minnesota Center for
Arts Education to construct a $7 million instruction building on
their Golden Valley campus.
     David O'Fallon, executive director of the public school,
presented the proposal at the committee's Tues., Jan. 23, morning
meeting. The center draws 250 students from across the state, but
O'Fallon says it could enroll 300 with adequate classroom space.
     The center used utility savings from last year's mild winter
to pay for a long-term architectural master plan for the campus.
Portions of their request -- dormitory upgrades, sprinkler
systems, and road and sidewalk replacement -- were incorporated
in the governor's proposed bonding bill, S.F. 2055, carried by
Sen. Gary Laidig (R-Stillwater). Senators voted to approve the
bonding request, including the building, for later ranking.
     Senators also approved a $2.2 million bonding request from
Minnesota's Residential Academies for the Deaf and Blind at
Faribault. The money will be used to demolish a building, upgrade
health and safety, increase outdoor lighting and repair cracked
sidewalks.
     School building accessibility grants comprise another $2
million of approved S.F. 2055 bonding. The money continues
funding for an existing program. State officials estimate more
than $162 million needs to be spent to bring Minnesota schools
into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.   
     In an evening session, members of the division continued
review of the youth initiative grants, proposed in S.F. 2055,
which allocate $20 million in bond funds to constructiong or
repairing buildings for after-school programs. Janet Entzel of
the Department of Children, Families and Learning, Steven
Zachary, director of Minnesota's Office of Diversity, and Lino
Lakes prison warden Fred LaFleur testified in favor of the
grants.
     "The thrust of what we are trying to do is look at people in
our community as resources rather than problems," said LaFleur.
Money for youth programs now, he said, will save on prison
construction later.
     "I think we're having a state of emergency in regards to our
youth," said Sen. Jane Ranum (DFL-Mpls.)
     Senators did not, however, take a vote on whether to approve
the youth-initiative grants. Many Senators were concerned about a
provision requiring local grant recipients to match 50 percent of
the funds. 
     Also in the evening session, Senators agreed to include S.F.
1916, authored by committee Chair Lawrence Pogemiller
(DFL-Mpls.), in the Education Omnibus Bill. The bill provides
debt
service levy aid to the Royalton school district. The district's
voters approved a referendum in November and the school board
issued bonds on the understanding, after conversations with the
Department of Children, Families and Learning, that  the aid was
forthcoming. The district's grade-level enrollment was too small
to qualify, however. Without the aid, taxes would have increased
80 percent in the district to pay for the new school.
     Senators also approved the following bills for inclusion in
the omnibus bill: S.F. 2024, authored by Sen. Janet Johnson
(DFL-North Branch), and S.F. 1970, authored by Sen. Bob Lessard
(DFL-Intl. Falls), both of which authorize fund transfers in the
Chisago Lakes and Aitken school districts; S.F. 1830, authored by
Sen. Mark Ourada (R-Buffalo), allowing an early school-year start
for Buffalo schools; and S.F. 1807, authored by Sen. Charles Berg
(DFL-Chokio), reimbursing money to Montevideo schools.


Division hears merger update
     The Education Committee Higher Education Division got a
progress report Weds., Jan. 24, on last year's higher education
system merger, which brought together the state university
system, community colleges, and technical colleges.
     Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) Chancellor
Judith Eaton told Senators the new organization is involved in a
"major downsizing and reorganization" of the 62 campuses
involved.  She said the goal is to make the merged system work
better  and to position it for the 21st century.  She said
meetings are being held with staff members and labor unions to
discuss details of upcoming staff relocations and reductions. 
She told the committee the colleges will work closely with the
affected people to make sure their rights are protected and to
minimize the negative impact.  
     In response to a question from Division Chairman Sen. LeRoy
Stumpf (DFL-Thief River Falls), Eaton said the new structure will
avoid isolation between the campuses and result in an efficient
integration.  She said the transition process, including
notification of staff revisions, completion of labor agreements,
retraining, and the relocation of functions is extremely complex
and will take another year.
     Vice Chancellor Elisabeth Murry gave committee members a
closer look at negotiations with the labor unions representing
MnSCU staff and faculty members.  She said topics under
discussion during the past six months of what she characterized
as "bargaining marathons" over employee contracts include layoff
notification policy, early retirements, performance pay and
bonuses.  She said she hopes to complete talks with the remaining
two units by the end of the legislative session.  
     Answering a question from Sen. Roger D. Moe (DFL-Erskine),
Murry said the new contracts will result in greater flexibility
for the administration and local control for academic policy
making. "We don't include language in collective bargaining that
will tie a president's hands," she told the division.
     Senators also were briefed on development of the new MnSCU
accounting system by Interim Vice Chancellor Tom Triplett. He
said the goal of the process is an "integrated information
system" that will provide data on items such as graduation rates,
classroom use, student data, and instructional technology.  He
told the members a consultant will be brought in to help finish
the project, which he expects to have completed within a year. 
Triplett reported the accounting system is "totally integrated"
on all campuses, and the payroll system is almost totally on
line.  Stumpf called that a "major step forward, especially for a
system this large."

Environment and Natural Resources
Appointments approved
     Several gubernatorial appointees to various environmental
agencies were recommended for confirmation by the Environment and
Natural Resources Committee at its Fri., Jan. 19, meeting.  The
appointments heard were Carolyn Engebretson to the Environmental
Quality Board; Bonita Nelson, Jacqueline Duncanson and Elaine
Neitzel to the Pollution Control Agency Board; Merilee Hein and
Michael Triggs to the Environmental Trust Fund Citizen's Advisory
Committee; Edward A. Garvey as the Office of Environmental
Assistance Director and Charles W. Williams as the Pollution
Control Agency Commissioner.
The committee, chaired by Sen. Bob Lessard (DFL-Int'l. Falls),
received brief statements from most of the appointees and had the
opportunity to pose questions to them.  Most of the questions
concerned the candidates' perspectives on the compatibility of
protecting the environment while fostering a healthy business
climate.  All appointees received unanimous votes on their
confirmation recommendations.  Sen. Steven Novak (DFL-New
Brighton), noting he was the lone dissenting vote five years ago
at Commissioner Williams' first confirmation hearing, expressed a
desire to second the motion for confirmation made by Sen. Gary
Laidig (R-Stillwater).  Novak said he wished to indicate the
concerns he had earlier about Williams' qualifications were
unfounded.

XL Project Reviewed
     Two bills were heard by the Environment and Natural
Resources Committee at a Tue., Jan. 23, meeting.  One advanced
while the other was laid over for further consideration.
     The first bill, S.F. 1941, gives homeowners with septic
systems more time to comply with recent changes in sewage
treatment regulations if they want to add on to their homes.  The
bill's author, Sen. Steve Dille (R-Dassel), said,"I'm doing this
so that our citizens don't get mad at us."  Many septic systems
have been upgraded in recent years to comply with regulations
that took effect seven years ago.  Under current law, a homeowner
who wishes to add a bedroom to their home would have to upgrade
their septic system again to comply with more recent standards,
and, thus would have to pay for both the home addition and the
sewage system improvement.  S.F. 1941 gives the homeowner five
years to comply with the new standards.  The measure gained
committee approval and advanced to the Senate floor.
     The second bill, S.F. 1956, implements a pilot project with
the dual aim of expediting the regulatory compliance process and
reducing the pollution generated by an industrial facility.  The
measure, also sponsored by Dille, is modeled on a co-operative
venture between the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and 3M. 
The Environmental Protection Agency is now encouraging this sort
of co-operation nationwide under the name Project XL, which
stands for eXcellence and Leadership.
     The committee heard a presentation on the bill from Lisa
Thorvig of the PCA, who is heading the XL project, and
endorsements of it from several business and environmental group
representatives.  The bill was held over for further technical
amendments. 

Ethics and Campaign Reform
Recall amendment introduced   
     Sen. John Marty (DFL-Roseville), chair of the Ethics and
Campaign Reform Committee called the panel together, Thurs.,
Jan.18 to consider a bill proposing an amendment to the state
constitution. S.F.153, authored by Sen. Ember Reichgott Junge
(DFL-New Hope) proposes the addition of a recall amendment to the
Minnesota Constitution. 
      Reichgott Junge began her testimony, stating that the bill
she was introducing was first introduced in 1994, prior to the
recent ethical complaints.  Although less than 1 percent of
officials would be subject to recall, Reichgott Junge said,  the
process makes officials more accountable to the public.  While
recall would never replace the duty of Legislators to provide
discipline from within the Legislature, it would include the
public in decision making, she said.
     The bill introduced by Reichgott Junge is based on county
recall law and includes restrictions or limits on the overuse of
the recall mechanism.  The measure is not applicable if the
grounds for recall are based on political disagreements.  These
types of unnecessary, politically based complaints are not valid
and become costly to taxpayers, said Reichgott Junge.
     The proposed recall process begins with any registered voter
filing a petition to the Secretary of State requesting a removal
election and setting forth facts alleging that an elected
official committed malfeasance or nonfeasance in the performance
of offical duties during the current or any previous term in the
office.  The petition requires signature by 25 percent of
eligible voters who voted for all candidates for the office at
the most recent general election.  If the signatures are
certified, the Secretary of State would forward the request to
the Supreme Court.  The court must find the individual guilty or
not guilty of malfeasance or nonfeasance.  The request goes back
to the Secretary of State and a re-election follows.  The bill
does not allow recall during the first or last six months of an
official's term.  
     Debate among committee members centered on the exact
definition of malfeasance and nonfeasance.  Reichgott Junge
defined the terms, as "malfeasance means the willful commission
of an unlawful or wrongful act in the performance of a public
official's duties, or having reason to believe wrong doing or
ethical misconduct.  Nonfeasance means the willful failure to
perform a specific act which is a required part of the duties of
a public official, such as not showing up for meetings and
voting, or a violation of public trust."
     Sen. Lawrence Pogemiller (DFL-Minneapolis) suggested a
concern with the amendment, saying that, at first glance, it
appears to give stregth to voters and lessen the responsibility
of elected officials among their peers.  "We should keep the
responsibility on us to make judgements as to whether we should
be here or not.  Voters get their chance at elections,"
Pogemiller said.
     The bill was approved by the committee on voice vote and was
re-refered to the Rules and Administration Committee.

Family Services
Overview presented
     Representatives from the Department of Human Services
presented an overview of the Minnesota Family Investment Program,
an approach to welfare reform, Thurs., Jan. 18. Assistant
Commissioner Deborah Huskins said that MFIP is based on the
concept of "total family support."
The seven-county pilot program, which operates in metropolitan,
suburban and rural communities, strives to reduce dependance on
welfare as families' primary source of income, encourage work and
reduce poverty. By consolidating AFDC, Family General Assistance
and Food Stamps, a "seamless system" of support is created,
Huskins said.
     The program "cashes out" food stamps, provides direct child
care payments, broadens eligibility for two parent families and
increases asset limits. Furthermore, MFIP requires long term
welfare recipients to participate in training programs and
emphasizes immediate employment.
MFIP supervisor Chuck Johnson highlighted the program's first
year findings. Currently there are 55,000 families receiving AFDC
in the state, Johnson said. Of those families, 4,400 are
participating in MFIP. More than half of single parent recipients
-- 59 percent -- reported having worked full-time for at least
six months, Johnson said.
     Chair Pat Piper (DFL-Austin) raised questions related to
sanctions. Sanctions against a recipient take effect if a
recipient has been receiving AFDC for 24 months and refuses to
meet with a case manager, or is in non-compliance with an
educational program, Johnson said.
Attitudinal statistics were also included in the report. Johnson
noted that 75 percent believe that they face significant barriers
to employment, including lack of child care, transportation and
housing. "But MFIP is a program designed to solve some of the
problems families face, to remove some of the barriers," Johnson
said.
     Jean Schermer, a Hennepin County financial worker agreed
with Johnson. The program effectively removes "some of what we
call the silly rules that keep people from going to work,"
Schermer said. "Before, we were the government, but now we're
seen as being here to help," she added.

Licensing bill discussed
     Members of the Family Services Committee devoted most of the
Tues., Jan. 23, hearing to a discussion of a bill making numerous
changes in human services licensing programs.  The bill, S.F.
1886, authored by Committee Chair Pat Piper (DFL-Austin), changes
terminology, clarifies definitions, makes changes in the area of
background studies and makes several changes to conform with the
changes in the Vulnerable Adults Act enacted last year.  The
measure also authorizes the commissioner to develop a
demonstration project for abbreviated inspections of child care
centers, mental health centers and clinics, and residential based
habilitation services for persons with mental retardation or
related conditions.  Controversy over the bill arose with an
amendment, offered by Sen. Kevin Chandler (DFL-White Bear Lake),
designed to ease some requirements for licensing child care
centers.  Piper suggested that the bill be laid over for further
work on the areas of contention.
     Committee members also continued their discussion of the
Minnesota Family Investment Program.  Ken Ebel, director of
social services, Sherburne County and Steve Rieger, director of
community services, Morrison County, outlined the more successful
aspect of the program and gave suggestions for improvements. 
Ebel said that the program was working well in Sherburne County
and that the incentives portion of the program seemed to be the
most valuable in  motivating clients.  On the other hand, he said
those areas of the program stressing case management might not be
as valuable as other portions of the program.

Finance
Brandl-Weber report delivered
     Members of the Finance Committee, chaired by Sen. Gene
Merriam (DFL-Coon Rapids) met Tuesday, Jan. 23, to conclude a
presentation of the governor's supplemental budget by
Commissioner Laura King, of the Finance Department.  King said
that the increased revenue forecasted at a growth rate of 5
percent will be absorbed by the growth in the health and human
services budget which carries a 67 percent growth rate.  
     Former Senator John Brandl discussed a report written with
former Congressman Vin Weber outlining the fiscal situation of
the state.  Brandl said that the state is facing a large
financial problem due to have impact at the turn of the century. 
Even if this situation is remedied, Brandl said, the state is
facing an additional shortfall in federal funds.  Proposed
solutions offered by the Brandl-Weber team include a redesign of
government and more fiscal restraint.  
     Brandl suggested areas of improvement in K-12 education,
post secondary education, health care, local government and
criminal justice.  The team supports the voucher system, as well
as giving more authority to college and university presidents,
requiring local referendums to increase nonschool property taxes,
focusing money on prevention of crime and establishing budgets
before determining government paid health care benefits.

Gaming Regulation
Retailer bill advances
     A bill designed to reduce the paperwork a lottery retailer
must file was approved by the Gaming Regulation Committee at its
Tue., Jan. 23, meeting.  The bill, S.F. 1936, authored by Sen.
Jerry Janezich (DFL-Chisholm), allows a retail contractor to sell
lottery tickets at more than one location.  Current law requires
every outlet location to be covered by a separate contract.
The bill allows a business chain to license all of their store
locations under a single contract and also lifts the requirement
that each location post a bond.  Under the measure,  the lottery
director retains the authority to require specific store
locations to enter into separate contracts or post bonds if the
director deems it necessary.  The director may also prohibit
sales at a particular location without canceling the whole
contract.  Lottery Director George Andersen stated he was in
favor of the bill when asked.
     An amendment, offered by Sen. Bob Lessard (DFL-Int'l.
Falls), would have re-established the State Lottery Board which
was abolished by the Legislature last year.  Sen. Allan Spear
(DFL-Mpls.), noting that the adoption of the amendment would
require hearings in the Governmental Operations and Veterans and
Finance committees, asked Sen. Janezich if he favored it.  "No,"
Janezich said,"the Governmental Operations Committee has been
removing a lot of agencies and it would be a very short trip for
this bill."  Andersen stated he would like to see the board
reinstated, but felt adoption of the amendment would threaten
passage of Janezich's bill.  Lessard withdrew his amendment and
the committee unanimously recommended passage of the bill.
     Following the bill discussion, Andersen gave a presentation
on the Lottery budget and sales trends. He also answered
questions from committee members on various aspects of lottery
operations.

Governmental Operations and Veterans
Two bills advance
     The Governmental Operations and Veterans Committee, chaired
by Sen. James Metzen (DFL-St. Paul), approved two bills Weds.,
Jan. 24.
     S.F. 1962, a bill that prohibits related organizations from
simultaneously participating in a federated funding campaign for
state employees was approved and sent to the full Senate. Carried
by Sen. Don Kramer (R-Brooklyn Center), the bill prevents an
organization from listing itself more than once on a charitable
campaign contribution form.
     Catherine Jordon, president of United Arts, testified in
support of the measure. "The bill provides fair access, equal
access, for all charitable organizations, not just one," she
said.
Byron Laher, from the United Way, opposed the bill. "We see
multiple listings as a means of better communicating choices with
the giving public," he said.
     Sen. Phil Riveness (DFL-Bloomington) spoke in favor of the
measure. "This [the United Way's multiple listings] is a market
strategy to dominate state employee giving," he said. "It
violates the spirit of the whole thing."
     S.F. 1800, authored by Sen. Dan Stevens (R-Mora), changes
procedures for the sale of closed armories. Under the bill, the
adjutant general may sell a property to the municipality or
county at a price determined by an appraiser. If the municipality
or county does not purchase the property, the adjutant general
must advertise the property's availability for three consecutive
weeks in an area newspaper. Thereafter, the property may be sold
to another bidder.
     Gary LeBlanc, from the Dept. of Military Affairs, testified
in support of the bill. He told members that although there is no
crisis to sell the vacant armories, "the longer they remain
empty, the more they decrease in value." Empty buildings
deteriorate quickly, he added, and can present potential threats
to public health and safety.  
     Members approved the measure and recommended placement on
the Consent Calendar.

Health Care
Universal coverage report presented
David Haugen, the acting director of the Minnesota Health Care
Commission testified before the Health Care Committee, Thurs.,
Jan. 18, detailing the commission's recommendations for universal
coverage in Minnesota.  Chaired by Sen. Linda Berglin
(DFL-Minneapolis), the committee listened to findings and
recommendations of the Minnesota Health Care Commission's 28
member independent advisory board.  
     The recommendations for universal coverage were grouped into
four categories including assistance to low income persons and
persons with disabilities, insurance reforms, purchasing pools,
and personal responsibility.  The commission also developed
principles for integrating acute and long-term care in Minnesota. 
According to Haugen, the planning for and delivery of care should
be consumer-centered and should take into account an individual's
unique goals, preferences, circumstances and needs.  Financing
the continuum of care should be a shared responsibility divided
among out-of-pocket payments, premiums and taxes, he said. 
Incentives for both health plans and providers should be aligned
to encourage integration of the continuum of care and reward both
efficiency and desired health and functional outcomes, Haugen
said.  Finally, Haugen said mechanisms for assuring quality
focusing on measurable outcomes should balance the existence of
market forces with appropriate public oversight activities.
     Berglin presented, S.F.1881, a bill establishing a variety
of restrictions on asset allowances and asset transfers.  The
bill caps the asset allowance for burial expenses at $5,000.  A
five-year look back period is established under the bill during
which asset transfers are conclusively presumed to be for the
purposes of establishing Medical Assistance eligibility. 
Additionally, the bill reduces the monthly cap on uncompensated
transfers to $500 from $1,000, establishes a penalty period of
ineligibility beginning with the date of application and requires
the commissioner of human services to approve hardship waivers. 
Many of the provisions written into the bill include areas that
would require a federal waiver of flexibility, said Berglin.      
     Testimony was heard from Sue Rogers, executive director of
the Minnesota Funeral Director's Association.  "While we don't
oppose the intentions of Sen. Berglin's bill, we are deeply
concerned about adding caps to pre-funded funerals," said Rogers. 
"Its necessary to talk about the need for a cap on the
set-aside."
     Rogers said that the association supports pre-funded
funerals because they take the burden away from families. 
Funeral directors have not tried to hide money through this
mechanism, according to Rogers.  She said that excess funds go
back to the estate from which the state and county can retrieve
them.  Rogers said she spoke with George Hoffman of the Minnesota
Department of Human Services who told her that taking caps off
burial expenses would have a very insignificant effect on the
budget.
     Testimony was also heard from Julian Zweber, an attorney in
St.Paul, who said that  S.F.1881 will affect not only those who
currently receive MA, but could affect anyone because it is
impossible to predict who will need MA.  Zweber said that the
bill should not be referred to the Judiciary Committee, but
should be dealt with in the policy committee, the Health Care
Committee.  Berglin offered to hold the bill over until the next
committee meeting.

Committee updated on MN managed care
     Committee Chair Sen. Linda Berglin (DFL-Minneapolis) called
the Health Care Committee to order, Mon. Jan.22, to hear a report
from Allan Baumgarten, a private consultant who writes the
Minnesota Managed Care Review. The review includes information
displaying enrollment trends, utilization, effects of mergers and
other specific data related to managed care. 
     Baumgarten discussed the downward trend in HMO enrollment,
explaining the trend as a move by employers into self-insured
plans.  One and a half million citizens in the state of Minnesota
are enrolled in self-funded plans organized by large health care
companies.
     Other figures disclosed by Baumgarten include the HMO
premium revenue trend which dropped from a 16.5 percent increase
average in 1990 to a 4.2 percent increase average in 1994 and the
use of in-patient hospital days within HMOs, a figure that has
been on the decline, averaging 6.5 percent, for the past few
years and remaining stable for 1994.   
     Sen. Sam Solon (DFL-Duluth) outlined S.F. 1719, a bill
pertaining to dental hygiene, the expansion of services provided
by dental hygienists and other technical changes in statutes
related to dental hygienists.  A lobbyist for the Minnesota
Dental Hygiene Association testified that the bill is basically a
housekeeping bill, offering greater protection to the public
through changes in licensure requirements.  The committee
approved S.F. 1719 and forwarded it to the Senate floor.
     Berglin returned to S.F. 1881, her bill on asset transfers. 
She offered an amendment, which was adopted, limiting asset
transfers to $6,000 instead of the previous $5,000 requirement. 
The amendment also clarified the limit on transfers to those
"under fair market value."  The amendment was adopted.  Julian
Zweber, an attorney, continued his testimony from Thurs., Jan.
18.  Zweber said that bill represents the most severe curtailment
of eligibility for Medical Assistance (MA) since funding for the
program was establish.  The only people not affected are the very
poor and the very wealthy, Zweber said.  He said he suggests that
a distinction be drawn between gifts to charity and gifts to
family members.  Additionally, Zweber said that the bill will
cause problems to the administration of the MA program in effort
to verify eligibility or detect unreported transfers.
     Berglin responded that the intention of the bill is to make
it clear that Minnesota is not a state that wants people giving
away assets that should be used for their own care.  The bill
does allow for a $500 monthly giveaway, said Berglin.  
     Sen. Harold Finn (DFL-Cass Lake) questioned the a provision
that specifies that any transfer is "conclusively presumed to
have been made for the purpose of establishing or maintaining
medical assistance eligibility."  Finn said that a conclusive
presumption was not necessary.  The bill was laid over until the
next committee meeting.
     Sen. Don Betzold (DFL-Fridley) presented a bill that permits
the use of unmarked vehicles by the Division of Disease
Prevention and Control of the Department of Health.  Betzold's
bill, S.F. 1862, requires that unmarked vehicles be registered
and display passenger vehicle classification licence plates.  The
Health Department conducts community outreach programs for
individual who often would like to maintain confidentiality
regarding their health problems, explained Betzold.  The Acting
Director of Disease Prevention and Control, Aggie Leitheiser,
testified that there exists in current legislation, a list of
departments that have access to the unmarked vehicles.  The
Department of Health is not on that list.  The bill was approved
by the committee and recommended for the Consent Calendar.
     Betzold also presented a bill that provides for a specific
process to isolate and detain persons with active tuberculosis
who pose an endangerment to the public health. S.F. 1866 gives
the Dept. of Health more authority to require tuberculosis
patients to be monitored, said Leitheiser.  If patients do not
complete and follow through with treatment programs, there is a
possibility that the disease can become drug resistant,
Leutheiser said.  Active, drug-resistant tuberculosis is easily
transmitted, she said, and for this reason, it is necessary for
the public health that these individuals be required to receive
treatment, said Leitheiser.
     Finn offered an amendment to relinquish responsibility on
the part of counties to pay for the isolation and treatment and
move the responsibility to the carrier and state.  The amendment
was adopted.  S.F. 1866 was approved and re-referred to the
Judiciary Committee.
     The committee returned to Berglin's asset transfer bill,
S.F. 1881, and Finn offered an amendment to take out the look
back provision and allow for asset transfers that are not related
to Medical Assistance eligibility.  The bill was laid over.

Background check bill okayed
     The Health Care Committee voted the evening of Tues., Jan.
23, to approve a bill, authored by Sen. Allan Spear (DFL-Mpls),
designed to expand background checks in nursing homes, home care
agencies and boarding care homes.  The bill expands current
legislation to include employees other than direct contact
employees.  Spear said the bill, S.F. 2047,  not only expanded
the successes of the recently implemented background studies
system, but also corrects technical mistakes and remedies
duplicative checks from separate facilities.  The bill was
approved by the committee and re-referred to the Crime Prevention
Committee.
     The committee returned to discussion of S.F. 1881, an asset
transfer bill, sponsored by Committee Chair Linda Berglin
(DFL-Mpls).  Sen.Harold Finn (DFL-Cass Lake) introduced an
amendment
granting individuals the ability to challenge the conclusive
presumption clause for asset transfers.  The amendment failed and
S.F. 1881 was re-referred to the Judiciary Committee.
     Members also discussed another Berglin bill, S.F. 1874,
requiring utilization review organizations to provide the
enrollee with documentation for determiniation to certify a
procedure as appropriate, reasonable or medically necessary.  The
committee heard testimony from Jane Legwold, a woman who is
confronted with charges of $10,000 after undergoing a bilateral
prophylactic mastectomy.  Legwold's surgeon received a letter
stating that the utilization review organization did not
guarantee benefits or payment.  Legwold said the law should
require the letter be sent to the patient as well as the surgeon,
so that the patient has opportunity to take action.  
     Sen. Sheila Kiscaden (R-Rochester) said that not all
patients want to see review utilization review forms.  What they
want to know, said Kiscaden, is when they are not covered and how
to appeal.  The bill was laid aside.
     A bill dealing with mercury amalgams, or tooth fillings
containing approximately 50 percent mercury, was presented to the
committee by author Sen. Ellen Anderson (DFL-St. Paul).  Anderson
reviewed previously presented testimony regarding the risks of
mercury amalgams and summarized S.F. 1229 as requiring dentists
to post a sign informing patients of the potential health risk of
mergury amalgam use.  Testimony was heard from Mary Lucey, an
individual who experienced symptoms typical of mercury poisoning
until she had all of her fillings removed.  The bill was held
over.

Committee responds to task force
     A working group, organized by Health Care Committee Chair
Sen. Linda Berglin (DFL-Mpls), presented its findings to the
Health Care Committee Weds., Jan. 24.  The recommendations were
presented by several of the task force members who explained the
group's composition as that of health care providers, advocates
and front line workers who could offer innovative suggestions in
dealing with pending federal cuts.  The group's suggestions
focused on maintaining equity, examining lower cost alternatives,
examining alternative funding sources and eliminating unnecessary
duplication.
     Berglin introduced S.F.1879, a bill to relating to medical
assistance.  The bill will combine the alternative care program
and the home and community-based services waiver for the elderly
program.  The bill, said Berglin, is a result of recommendations
from the working committee.  Berglin proposes allowing the
Department of Human Services the ability to design the
combination.  The bill was approved by the committee and sent to
the Senate floor.
     A bill, authored by Berglin, to appropriate money for grants
to counties to recruit and establish more family adult day care
providers was carried by Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy).  S.F.
1857 appropriates money to expand or upgrade adult day care
services outside the Metropolitan Area.  It also establishes a
health care reform fund for the deposit of savings, collections
and paybacks from various health care activities.  The bill was
approved and re-referred to the Health Care and Family Services
Finance Division.
     S.F. 1880, a bill to appropriate money to expand or upgrade
adult day care services outside the Metropolitan Area was
authored  by Berglin.  The bill establishes a health care reform
fund for the deposit of savings, collections, and paybacks from
various health care activities.  Representatives from the
Minnesota Adult Day Care Service Organization testified on the
needs and uses of funding.  Funding appropriated under the bill
can be used for existing services, or the development of new
services.  The bill was approved by the committee and re-referred
to the Health Care and Family Finance Division.
     S.F. 1876, authored by Berglin, establishes a technical
assistance program to enable providers of home care services to
maximize Medicare collections.  Berglin said the task force felt
that providers were not currently maximizing Medicare collections
and that the bill would create a linkage between those agencies
who are Medicare certified and those who are not.  The bill was
approved by the committee and moved to the Health Care and Family
Services Finance Division.
     Sen. Don Samuelson (DFL-Brainerd) presented S.F. 1951, a
bill to modify several provision of the nursing facility
alternative payment demonstration project enacted in 1995. 
Testimony including an explanation of changes was heard from
Mariann Wiebusch of Care Providers of Minnesota.  The bill was
laid over.

Jobs, Energy and Community Development
Energy report deadline extended
               Members of the Jobs, Energy and Community
Development Committee met Thurs., Jan. 18, to consider four
bills.  The committee, chaired by Sen. Steven Novak (DFL-New
Brighton), advanced all four measures.  S.F. 1925, authored by
Sen. Janet Johnson (DFL-North Branch), makes technical changes to
requirements under single family housing programs.  S.F. 1812,
carried by Sen. Linda Berglin (DFL-Mpls.), provides for securing
vacant buildings.  Both measures were sent to the Senate floor.
            S.F. 1846, sponsored by Novak, extends the due date
for
the Electric Energy Task Force report on electric energy policy
until July 1, 1996.  The measure was recommended for the Consent
Calendar.  S.F. 1902, authored by Sen. Sandra Pappas (DFL-St.
Paul), changes the name of the Council on Affairs of Spanish
Speaking People to the Council on Affairs of Chicano/Latino
People.  The bill also increases  the membership on the Council
on Affairs of Chicano/Latino People and the Council on
Asian-Pacific Minnesotans.  The measure was approved and
re-referred to
the Governmental Operations and Veterans Committee.

Housing bill okayed
       A bill providing funds for community rehabilitation and
affordable rental investment programs was approved by members of
the Jobs, Energy and Community Development Committee at the
Tues., Jan. 23, hearing.  S.F. 1991, authored by Sen. Randy Kelly
(DFL-St. Paul), appropriates $12 million for statewide housing
programs.  Under the bill, $2 million is for family homeless
prevention, $5 million is for acquiring and removing rental
property in order to reduce blight, $2.5 million is for
production and rehabilitation of housing and $2.5 million is for
the affordable rental investment program.  An additional $2.5
million in bonding is earmarked for the Minnesota Housing Finance
Agency's local government unit housing account for interest-free
loans for a neighborhood land trust program.  
       Kelly said that one portion of the bill requires a
community impact statement before a city may approve construction
of new low-income rental housing in a targeted neighborhood.  The
bill also requires a public hearing and city approval before new
low-income rental housing may be built in a targeted
neighborhood. The measure was referred to the Jobs, Energy and
Community Development Finance Division.
          The committee, chaired by Sen. Steven Novak (DFL-New
Brighton), also approved a measure allowing an electric co-op and
a municipal electric company to enter into a joint venture to
provide service.  S.F. 2009, authored by Sen. Dean Johnson
(R-Willmar), allows the Willmar Municipal Utilities Commission
and
the Kandiyohi Cooperative Electric Power Association to enter
into a joint venture to provide power with the two entities
service areas.  Mike Nitchells of the Willmar Municipal Utilities
Commission spoke for the bill and said that the idea behind the
measure was to provide more efficient service at a fair and
equitable rate.  Members approved the bill and forwarded it to
the full Senate.

One-site job centers touted
          Minnesota came one step closer to "one-stop service
areas"
for job-related services when Senators approved S.F. 1932.
          The bill, authored by Sen. Arlene Lesewski
(R-Marshall),
outlines the next steps in the Department of Economic Security's
creation of the workforce centers. Seventeen service sites in
Minnesota are planned to house job training, dislocated worker,
and school-to-work programs. Each site is governed by a workforce
council comprised of business, education and labor
representatives, as prescribed by the laws accompanying federal 
job training funding.
          Senators at the Weds., Jan. 24, meeting of the Jobs,
Energy
and Community Development Committee, chaired by Sen. Steven Novak
(DFL-New Brighton), re-referred the bill to the Government
Operations and Veterans Committee.
          Committee members also approved S.F. 1919, a
departmental
bill carried by Sen. Linda Runbeck (R-Circle Pines), and sent the
bill to the floor. But, wary of possible data practices problems,
they set aside an amendment to the bill from the Department of
Economic Security to allow private vendors to access certain
parts of its information data bank. The amendment, said Gary
Sorenson of the Department of Economic Security, was intended as
a convenience for people applying for loans. If the subject gave
written permission to release the information, bank officials
could use the vendor service to verify employment within minutes,
possibly reducing application costs from $60 to $10.
          Senators said the idea should be addressed in the
context of
other data practices issues expected to emerge later this
session.
          The bill relieves employers put out of business through
government property condemnation of charges relating to resulting
unemployment claims. It updates Minnesota statutes to conform
with a new federal law allowing people to request that state and
federal income taxes be withheld from their unemployment
benefits. It also clarifies sections of the existing law.
          Senators also approved S.F. 1945, authored by Sen.
Paula
Hanson (DFL-Ham Lake), a bill requiring that workers who install
or fix elevators be licensed or supervised by a licensed worker.
The bill was re-referred to the Government Operations and
Veterans Committee.
          Bernie Carey of the Local 9 Elevator union testified in
support of the bill, saying it protects "non-sophisticated
customers" such as schools and churches who purchase elevators to
comply with wheelchair access laws. George Hawkins, executive
director of Associated Builders and Contractors testified against
the measure, saying, "It's not needed."
          Senators also approved S.F. 2051, authored by Sen. Dan
Stevens (R-Mora). The bill permits the commissioner of the
Department of Trade and Economic Development to solicit and spend
money from lobbyists to finance economic development conferences.
Department representative Mark Loftis said the law could save
$10,000 to $15,000 per year on the expense of these training
conferences. Currently, contributions are prohibited from
lobbyists to any state official. Senators forwarded the bill to
the Ethics and Campaign Reform Committee.

Judiciary
Pawnshop data bill advanced
          The Joint Crime Prevention Judiciary Subcommittee on
Privacy
met Mon. Jan. 22 and advanced a bill to the Judiciary Committee
that authorizes public access to data describing property in
pawnshop transactions.  Authored by Sen. Jane Ranum (DFL-Mpls),
co-chair of the joint subcommittee,  S.F. 2027 changes current
law by allowing pawnshop data collected for crime prevention to
be released to the public.  The bill does not provide for public
access to data that would reveal the identity of persons
participating in pawnshop transactions, extending the current
private classification of this data and protection of individual
rights.
          Lieutenant Phillip Hafvenstein, Minneapolis Police
Department, License Inspection Unit, testified on behalf of the
bill, stating that its approval would enable usage of a new
information system being developed for crime prevention.  The
city of Minneapolis, in cooperation with the cities of St. Paul
and Bloomington, is developing an Automated Pawn System (APS),
said Hafvenstein,  to computerize the collection of pawn and
secondhand transaction data.  The system allows investigators to
obtain data from one community, possibly where items were pawned,
to another where items may have been stolen.
          "How will this help outside areas?  Will you expand the
system metro wide?" asked Sen. David Knutson (R-Burnsville). 
Hafvenstein responded that, if the system worked properly, it
could be expanded to serve other areas.  To offer the most
benefits, he said, victims need to be able to compare their
losses against the data held by investigators.  This operation,
he said, is dependant on the public availability of property
data.   
          The panel also discussed the removal of a sunset
provision
that grants authority to health care providers to release health
records for research purposes without obtaining patient consent. 
Ranum described S.F. 1966 as a bill to permanently remove the
sunset provision, set for June 1, 1996.  The provisions had been
previously extended in 1994.
          The bill extends a provision to release health records
to
qualified personnel for the purpose of medical or scientific
research if the provider makes a reasonable attempt to determine
that the use does not violate any limitations under which the
record was collected, that the use is necessary to accomplish the
research for which the disclosure is made, and that the recipient
has established and maintains safeguards to protect the records
from unauthorized disclosure.  Further use or release of the
records in individually identifiable form is prohibited to
persons other than the patient without the patient's consent.
          John Kingrey, vice president of the Minnesota Hospital
and
Health Partnership lent support for the repeal of the sunset
provision, explaining the various scenarios in which release of
health records without patient consent may be made.  Kingrey said
that sometimes the datat is released for reasons other than
medical research such as for law enforcement purposes.
          Legislators debated the need for repeal.  Sen. Sheila
Kiscaden (R-Rochester) said there was a need for such data in
epidemiological studies, citing longitudinal factors, familial
issues and transmittal factors.  Kiscaden said that the benefit
of medical research in this case may outweigh the public's
rights.  She suggested that institutions receiving requests for
data should look carefully at the organizations making the
requests.  She continued her argument by comparing the need for
crime investigators to have access to data sources for the public
good and the need for research institutes to have similar data
access.
          Testimony was also heard from Jeanette Fowles, Vice
President of Research for Health System Minnesota.  "Once a data
set is established, it is stripped of all unique identifying
characteristics.  The linking data is gone," said Fowles. 
Additionally, said Fowles, providers are extremely sensitive to
the release of information.  Many have institutional review
boards to review requests for data release.

Media shield laws discussed
          The Judiciary Committee held a joint hearing with the
House
Judiciary Committee, Mon., Jan. 22, in order to have a thorough
discussion of Minnesota's media shield laws. The joint panel,
chaired by Sen. Randy Kelly (DFL-St. Paul) and Wes Skoglund
(DFL-Mpls.), reviewed the Minnesota Free Flow of Information Act
and
heard testimony on issues raised by interpretations of the
statute. The media shield laws are the statutes that protect
members of the press from having to disclose sources.  The issue
has been in the spotlight lately because of controversy
surrounding the Minnesota Daily.  However, because of the ongoing
nature of that particular case, no testimony or discussion of the
case was head.  Instead, members participated in a more general
philosophical discussion of the statute.

Defamation bill approved
          The Judiciary Committee, chaired by Randy Kelly
(DFL-St.
Paul), met Weds., Jan. 24, to debate S.F. 1500, a bill authored
by Sen. John Hottinger (DFL-Mankato) to enact clarification of
defamation act.  The bill applies to any claim for damages
arising out of harm to personal reputation caused by the false
content of a publication.  Under the bill, a person may maintain
an action for defamation, or a publishing of retraction.  
          Jack Davis, Minnesota Appellate Court Judge, testified
in
support of the bill, explaining that current common law does not
serve the interest of victims of defamation.  The philosophy of
the bill is that truth is most important.  The bill is designed
to encourage perpetrators to come forward with corrections. 
While permitted under current law, retractions are considered an
admission of liability.  Defamation lawsuits are currently too
expensive and too drawn out to provide any benefit to the
victims.  Under the bill, an immediate retraction is required
with the victim controlling how the correction is made.  
          Sen. Harold Finn (DFL-Cass Lake) said that the press
could
easily publish defamatory material and then correct it
immediately.  He said it seemed as though the bill protected the
press or the defamers. 
          Mark Ansinson, attorney for the Minnesota Newspaper
Association testified in support of the bill, saying that
although the bill would help the news media, the benefits to the
general public were also notable.  To prove truth, Ansinson said,
cases of defamation must now go through a jury.  He said he
advises newspapers never to publish a retraction unless they are
sure they were wrong because law suits will ensue anyway.  Under
S.F. 1500, there lies a powerful incentive to publish a
retraction, said Ansinson. 
          The committee approved the bill and sent it to the
Senate
floor.
          Kelly introduced a bill on child custody visitation,
requiring specificity in visitation orders  and providing for the
establishment of visitation dispute resolution programs.  The
bill, S.F.1996, is intended to provide a way for people to
enforce their court ordered visitation without having to go to
court and to prevent the denial of visitation before it happens,
Kelly said.  
          Sen. Richard Cohen (DFL-St. Paul) said that the problem
is
that the Legislature passes laws and judges do not enforce them. 
There is a great deal of ability on the part of a judge to change
the nature of custody, said Cohen.  Kelly responded that he
believes individuals have an obligation to comply with court
orders.  When compliance is not reached, Kelly said, consequences
should be felt. 
          Testimony was heard from two mothers who were denied
visitation.  The bill was laid over. 

Metropolitan and Local Government
Cities seek bond funds
     Duluth will be in line for zoo improvements and Henderson
for a heritage center among this year's capital fund
expenditures.
          The Metropolitan and Local Government Committee,
chaired by
Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracy), approved bills for both requests
at its first meeting of the session, Monday, Jan. 22. Senators
did not rank the requests, however, because Vickerman believes
that job best falls to the Finance Committee. If Senators don't
agree that a request is worthy of state funds, said Vickerman,
they shouldn't approve the bill at all. "We've never prioritized
bonding bills in this committee so I'm not going to do that now,"
he said.
          The city of Henderson wants $390,00 from the state to
restore the former Sibley County Courthouse, built in 1879. The
building will be rendered disability-accessible and turned into a
"heritage center" honoring Joseph R. Brown. According to Arlene
Busse, of the Sibley County Historical Society, Brown was an
influential Democratic legislator, fur trader and newspaper
editor who, despite a third-grade education, spoke French, Dakota
and Ojibwa. Brown chose the spelling of the word "Minnesota"
during territorial days and some people believe the earliest
draft of the Minnesota Constitution is in his handwriting. "For
some reason he has sort of been forgotten," said Busse.
          Committee members approved the bill S.F.1821,
allocating
bond money to the center. The bill, which was authored by Sen.
Dennis Frederickson (R-New Ulm), was re-referred to the Finance
Committee.
           Committee members also approved S.F. 813, authored by
Sens. Sam Solon (DFL-Duluth), Jerry Janezich (DFL-Chisholm) and
Florian Chmielewski (DFL-Sturgeon Lake).The bill allocates $3.4
million of state bond funds to the city of Duluth to upgrade the
Lake Superior Zoological Gardens. Improvements for the last phase
of the zoo project include exhibits featuring bald eagles,
wolverines and musk oxen, as well as new trails and other
attractions. The bill was also re-referred to the Finance
Committee.
     The committee approved S.F. 1912, authored by Pat Pariseau
(R-Farmington), and referred the bill to the floor. The bill
allows the city of New Market to extend its debt ceiling in order
to issue bonds for a new combined fire department and city hall.
The building will be shared with New Market Township, which is
helping pay costs. Voters in the tiny city  approved the idea 67
to 42 -- that's people, not percent.

Transportation and Public Transit
Committee considers speed laws
     The Senate Transportation and Public Transit Committee heard
a recommendation Fri., Jan. 19, that speed limits on some
Minnesota roads be raised.  The recommendation came from members
of a task force formed by MnDOT and the Department of Public
Safety to consider speed changes in light of the repeal of the
1974 federal speed limit law.
     Hennepin County Sheriff and former State Senator Patrick
McGowan, who chaired the Joint Agency Task Force on Speed Limits
and Highway Safety, outlined the findings, which include raising
the speed limit to 70 miles an hour on rural interstates, and to
65 on urban interstates, other urban freeways, and multi-lane
divided highways.  McGowan said members decided to leave the
speed limit on rural two-lane two-way highways at 55 because of
the proportionately high number of fatalities on such roads.
     McGowan said the task force also wants the Legislature to
strengthen the state seat belt law and repeal a provision that
keeps some speeding infractions of up to 10 miles an hour off a
driver's record. The task force also calls on the Senate
Transportation and Public Transit Committee to initiate research
regarding the use of headlights during the daytime.
      Sen. Keith Langseth (D-Glyndon), who served on the task
force, said he voted for the speed recommendations, but wants
them tied to the safety measures.  "It's important they go as a
package," he said, "I'm not going to support it otherwise. I
don't want to see fatalities go up."
     Sen. Jim Vickerman (DFL-Tracey) said constituents in his
rural district are split over whether or not to raise the speed
on two lane roads.  Sen. Arlene Lesewski (R-Marshall) said most
of those in her southwest Minnesota district she has heard from
would like to see the speed on rural roads raised to 60.
     Sen. Paula Hanson (DFL-Ham Lake) questioned McGowan about a
recommendation to study a system of "graduated drivers
licensing."  McGowan replied the task force would like the
Legislature to consider limiting the permissible driving hours of 
younger motorists.
     Task force member, State Patrol Chief Col. Michael Chabries,
told the committee the patrol wants to insure that drivers obey
any higher limits.  In response to a question from Chair Carol
Flynn (DFL-Mpls.), Chabries said current patrol staffing levels
make enforcement difficult, and noted support from the
Departments of Public Safety and Transportation for funding to
hire 46 additional troopers..
     MnDot Traffic Engineer Mike Robinson gave a history of speed
limits in Minnesota, and outlined how the optimum speed is
determined. 
     The committee also heard briefly from Department of
Transportation Commissioner James Denn and Department of Public
Safety Commissioner Michael Jordan.  Both endorsed the speed and
safety recommendations of the task force  and said they will use
the findings to draw up a proposed bill for the Legislature.
     Flynn said the Committee will continue consideration of the
task force report at a future meeting.

Committee eases license suspension
     The Senate Transportation and Public Transit Committee wants
to give motorists facing driver's license suspension some
breathing room.
     Current law allows suspension to take effect immediately
after the notice of suspension is mailed.  The Committee on
Tues., Jan. 23, approved S.F. 1797, which would make it effective
14 days after the mailing.  Bill sponsor Sen. Don Betzold
(DFL-Fridley), told members the proposal doesn't change or limit
the
authority of the Department of Public Safety, but will help avoid
misunderstandings and give motorists time to take whatever action
is required.  Betzold offered an amendment, which was adopted,
that stipulates the commissioner of the department has the
authority to suspend a license immediately if a delay presents a
threat to public safety.  The bill was sent to the full Senate
for consideration.
     The committee considered legislation that would allow part
of trunk highway No. 52 in Fillmore County to be designated the
"Amish Buggy Byway," and directs MnDOT to erect designating
signs.  S.F. 1909 sponsor Sen. Kenrick Scheevel (R-Preston) said
the presence of numerous Amish buggies, along with high speed
vehicle traffic, has caused a hazardous situation, and signs are
needed to draw attention to the presence of slower-moving
non-motorized traffic.  He presented a letter from the Canton
City
Council requesting the designation.  The committee approved the
bill, with one amendment.  The amendment, offered by Sen. Keith
Langseth (DFL-Glyndon), requires the community to reimburse the
department for costs incurred, unless the department concludes a
significant safety factor is involved.  The measure was forwarded
to the full Senate.
     Senators passed a measure sponsored by. Betzold to exempt
from the motor vehicle sales tax cars given to foster children
from foster parents.  Betzold said such tax free transfers are
currently permitted between husband and wife and parent and
child.  S.F. 1839 was referred to the Taxes and Tax Laws
Committee.
     Members also heard a presentation from MnDOT on the Highway
Helper program, which is designed to assist motorists and keep
traffic on metro freeways flowing.  The presentation was
originally scheduled as part of a public hearing on S.F. 1832,
which eliminated  the program. The request for a hearing was
withdrawn by the bill's sponsor, Sen. Linda Runbeck (R-Circle
Pines). Committee Chair Sen. Carol Flynn (DFL-Mpls.), said the
Senate has received at least 50 calls in support of Highway
Helper, which she called an "innovative program that is clearly a
star and appreciated by the public."

Committee told: go slow
     Two witnesses urged the Transportation and Public Transit
Committee to go slow on the speed limit.
     The advice came as the committee heard additional testimony
Weds. Jan 24, on a report from a task force established by the
Departments of Public Safety and Transportation to make
recommendations in light of the repeal of the federal speed limit
law.
     The Joint Agency Task Force called on the Legislature to
raise maximum speeds on rural interstates to 70 miles an hour,
and to 65 on urban interstates and other urban freeways and
multi-lane divided highways.
     The 15-member group also urged stricter enforcement of the
seat belt law, and repeal of a provision that keeps some speeding
violations off driving records.
     Task force member and Minnesota Safety Council President
Carol Bufton told Senators that while a "case can be made that
the number of crashes won't increase" with higher speeds, the
"severity of injuries and number of fatalities will."  
     Also urging the committee to reject the speed
recommendations was task force member Sharon Driscoll, with
Mothers Against Drunk Driving. She testified speed is a factor in
a significant number of drunk driving accidents, and higher
speeds will increase deaths and make enforcement more difficult.
     Another witness, task force member Lisa Peterson with the
Minnesota Trucking Association, supported higher speeds as part
of an overall package that includes the safety recommendations. 
She said the safety measures might offset the increased risk from
higher speeds.
     Sen. Steve Murphy (DFL-Red Wing), brought up the potential
cost of the recommendations, asking "where are we going to get
the money for all those extra troopers to enforce stricter speed
laws."  Committee Chair Carol Flynn (DFL-Mpls.) said a gas tax
increase is a possibility, noting such a bill passed the
committee last year..
     Also testifying before the committee were Robert Johnson
with the Insurance Federation of Minnesota, who predicted faster
speeds would lead to higher insurance costs; and Mark Rask,
author of "American Autobahn," who told Senators holding speeds
back is "actually hindering safety efforts."  He said there is an
"unposted higher real speed limit," and raising speeds to the
"comfort level" at which traffic moves would make drivers more
law-abiding, improve safety, and free up troopers.
      Sen. Mark Ourada (R-Buffalo), one of two Senators to serve
on the task force, said he supports the higher speeds because
"what is more important than speed itself is to have people
traveling at the same speed.  If we set the speed limit at the
speed people are driving at,"  he continued, "that's a much safer
condition than having people weaving in and out of lanes."
     Referring to the 1974 energy crises that prompted the
federal speed limit, Sen. Jane Krentz (DFL-May Township), said
"it's sad that people will slow down to save money, but not to
save lives."  She said she favors enacting the safety measures
but not the new speeds, but added most of her constituents would
"probably not agree."
     Flynn advised the committee that current law gives the
commissioner of the Department of Transportation the authority to
set speeds, and said if the committee takes no action the
"potential exists for the commissioner to change limits."    

Preview

     Monday, January 29

Joint Crime Prevention Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy
Chair: Sen. Jane Ranum
8 a.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda:  S.F. 1819-Hottinger: Release of court, peace officer
juvenile records for research purposes. S.F. 1864- Reichgott
Junge: Classifying data on members of the Criminal Alert Network.
S.F. 1820-Knutson: Peace officer authority to photograph
juveniles. S.F. 2254-Betzold: Expungement of certain arrest or
conviction records. S.F. 2357- Ranum: Criminal Justice
Information Systems.

Legislative Audit Commission
Chair: Rep. Ann H. Rest
10 a.m.  Room 5 S.O.B.
Agenda: Receive and discuss the Program Evaluation Division's
report on the Department of Human Rights.  

Rules and Administration Committee
Chair: Sen. Roger D. Moe
10 a.m. Room 107  Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 153-Reichgott Junge: Constitutional amendment for
recall of elected state officers.

The Senate will meet at 11:30 a.m.

Agriculture and Rural Development Committee
Chair: Sen. Roger D. Moe
12 noon  Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1799-Hanson: Expanding immunity from liability for
certain uses of agricultural chemicals. S.F. 2093-Stevens:
Changing penalties for violating the adulterated dairy products
law. S.F. 2111-Stumpf: Changing requirements for certain
commodity council referenda. S.F. 2301-Sams: Adjusting certain
net worth definitions for certain rural finance agency programs.
S.F. 2343-Moe: Extending the duration of the sales tax exemption
for used farm machinery.

Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee
Chair: Sen. Leonard Price
12 noon Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1622-Knutson: Fire insurance recovery claims actions
failure to provide timely proof of loss regulation.  S.F.
1823-Laidig: Stillwater additional on-sale intoxicating liquor
license
issuance.  S.F. 1981-Hottinger: Regulation of enforcement powers
of Commerce commissioner.  S.F. 2120 Morse: Superfund insurance.

Judiciary Committee
Chair: Sen. Randy Kelly
12 noon  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1881- Berglin: Prearranged funeral plans; Contracts;
Trust funds.  S.F. 1996- Kelly: Child Custody Visitation (Laid
over from 1/24 meeting).  S.F. 2076- Betzold: Civil commitment;
allowing local mental health authority to consent to voluntary
treatment for certain incompetent persons.   S.F. 2119- Flynn:
Authorizing a third consecutive term for the chief judge of the
fourth judicial district.   S.F. 2181- Betzold: Civil Commitment;
clarifying and reorganizing portions of the commitment act.

Crime Prevention Committee
Chair: Sen. Allan Spear
2 p.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 2124-Terwilliger: Coordinated African-American youth
crime prevention pilot program.  S.F. 2129-Kelly: Minnesota
cities grant program.  S.F. 2137-Ranum: Juvenile offender
monitoring pilot program.

Metropolitan and Local Government Committee
Chair: Sen. Jim Vickerman
2 p.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1852-Johnson, D.J.: Authorizing bonds to remodel a
medical facility.  S.F. 1964-Vickerman: Allowing cities and towns
to require certain information when applying for permits.  S.F.
1979-Stevens: Limiting a certain exclusion from net dept for
personal property transactions.  S.F. 2115-Johnson, D.J.: City of
Duluth special service districts. 

Family Services Committee
Chair: Sen. Pat Piper
6 p.m.  Room 112 Capitol
Agenda:  Testimony on S.F. 1883-Samuelson: Public Assistance
Programs.

Legislative Commission on Pensions and Retirement
Chair: Rep. Richard Jefferson
6 p.m.  Basement Hearing Room S.O.B.
Agenda: Final consideration of subcommittee recommendations
of January 22, 1996, on: H.F. 1560-Farrell; S.F. 906-Kelly:
St. Paul Police and Fire; Clarification of limit on post
benefit reductions; H.F. 1560-Leighton; S.F. 1353-Piper:
Austin Fire; Clarification of survivor benefit coverage;
H.F. 2097-Greiling: StPTRFA; Deadline for back contributions
on certain part-time service.  H.F. 932-Jaros; S.F. 363-Solon:
Duluth Police and Fire Consolidation Account:
Retroactive post-retirement adjustments to 1987.  H.F.
1072-Vickerman; S.F. 800-Frederickson: PERA; Springfield Hospital
physicians exempt from coverage.  H.F. 1244-Kahn; S.F.
1074-Chandler: St. Paul Police; PERA-P&F for certain ex-St. Paul
Police officer.  H.F. 1272-Carlson; S.F. 1150-Reichgott
Junge: MTRFA; Purchase of service credit by former
Minneapolis teachers.  H.F. 1287-Rostberg; S.F. Johnson,
J.B.: MSRS; Exempt certain MSRS retiree from reemployment
annuitant earnings limit.  H.F. 1908-Jefferson; S.F.
1694-Kroening: Minneapolis Fire; Recodification.  H.F.
2021-Broecker; S.F. 1714-Runbeck: TRA; Retroactive benefits for
certain disabilitants.  H.F. 2050-Johnson, A.; S.F. 2060-Krentz:
Spring Lake Park Fire; Coverage for fire prevention
personnel.  H.F. 2123-Van Engen; S.F. 1911-Johnson, D.E.:
MSRS; Purchase of service credit by Willmar MSRS member. 
H.F. 2272-Dauner; S.F. 2103-Langseth: TRA; Exempt interim
superintendent from earnings limit.  H.F. 2467-Daggett: TRA;
Extension of deadline for certain part-time teacher
coverage.  H.F. 2487-Garcia; S.F. 2035-Riveness: Richfield
Fire; Pre-consolidation benefit increase.  H.F. 2522-Solberg:
Itasca County Hospital; Provide benefits similar to
PERA's for privatized public employees.

Tuesday, January 30

Gaming Regulation Committee
Chair: Sen. Charles Berg
8 a.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 560-Berg: Taxation; providing for the
determination of amount of tax refunds to Indian tribal
governments. S.F. 977-Mondale: Gambling; changing the pull-tab
and tipboard tax. S.F. 1360-Laidig: Lawful gambling;
providing that a city's trade area for purpose of limiting
expenditures of net profits may consist of all or part of
the city's school district.

Governmental Operations and Veterans Committee
Chair: Sen. James Metzen
8 a.m. Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1299-Pappas: Bilingual communication services;
Spanish-speaking affairs council and council on Asian-Pacific
Minnesotans coordination with Department of
Administration.  S.F. 1902-Pappas: Minority councils.  S.F.
2097-Lesewski: Department of Economic Security  housekeeping
bill.  S.F. 1806-Marty: Prohibiting transfer of impounded
animals for research.

Transportation and Public Transit Committee
Chair: Sen. Carol Flynn
8 a.m.  Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1718-Neuville: Junior Driver's License. S.F.
2121-Neuville: Czech Heritage Highway. S.F. 1946-Samuelson:
POW/MIA Memorial Highway. S.F. 2012-Beckman: Victory Drive.
S.F. 2034-Beckman: Exempting rescue vehicles from
registration tax and fees.  S.F. 2054-Kelly: Crosswalk
Right-of-Way.

Health Care Committee
Chair:  Sen. Linda Berglin
10 a.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 842-Betzold: Psychology Board change. S.F.
1873-Berglin:  Expand MinnesotaCare eligibility.  S.F.
1951-Samuelson:  Add provisions to contractual alternative
payment demonstration for nursing homes.  S.F. 1878-Berglin: 
Exception from rate reductions for a certain facility.  S.F.
2061-Berglin:  Resolution for A.C.T.  S.F. 2316-Berglin: 
Personal Care Assistant bill. 

Higher Education Division
Chair: Sen. LeRoy Stumpf
10 a.m. Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: Discussion with MnSCU and U of M regarding repair
and upkeep of buildings.  Information on restructuring of U
of M hospital. 

Jobs, Energy and Community Development Committee
Chair: Sen. Steven Novak
10 a.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.

Crime Prevention Finance Division
Chair: Sen. Tracy Beckman
12 noon  112 Capitol
Agenda:  Bonding: Five non-prison projects.  Supplemental
budget.

Ethics and Campaign Reform Committee
Chair: Sen. John Marty
12 noon Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1908-Marty: Ethical Practices Board legislative
recommendations. S.F. 1895-Reichgott Junge: Fair campaign
practices.

Environment and Natural Resources Committee
Chair: Sen. Bob Lessard
2 p.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 2013-Novak: Low-level radioactive waste. S.F.
1861-Johnson, J.B.: Omnibus Game and Fish bill.

Finance State Government Division
Chair: Sen. Richard Cohen
4 p.m.  Room 318 Capitol
Agenda: Department of Administration and Finance. Statewide
Systems Project. Supplemental Budget.

Health Care & Family Services Finance Division
Chair: Sen. Don Samuelson
4 p.m.  Room 123 Capitol
Agenda: Supplemental Budget: Medical Practices Board, Dept.
Of Health, Dept. Of Human Services.  Capitol Budget:
Veterans Home Board, Dept. Dept. of Human Services.  DHS
Updates on 1995 Legislative Initiatives.

Taxes and Tax Laws Subcommittee on Property Tax
Chair: Sen. John Hottinger
4 p.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1300-Pappas: Detachment of intermediate airport
land from cities or school districts.  S.F. 2036-Riveness:
Providing for deferred assessment of certain improvements. 
S.F. 2094-Berglin: Reduction of property tax refunds payable
to certain recipients of medical assistance.  S.F. 2173-Hanson:
Clarifying land classified as agricultural to
qualify for green acres treatment.

Metropolitan and Local Government Subcommittee on
Metropolitan Affairs
Chair: Sen. Ted Mondale
6 p.m.  Room 118 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 2365-Mondale: Modifying levy limit for Met
Council.  S.F. 2324-Mondale: Adding chief deputy sheriff in
unclassified service in Hennepin County.  S.F. 2266-Mondale:
metropolitan local government planning assistance grant and
loan program.  S.F. 2156-Mondale:  providing for local
zoning conformity in certain cases.  S.F. 2049-Mondale:
special service districts in cities.  S.F. 2194-Flynn: Met
Council cost allocation system for wastewater services. 
S.F. 2255-Betzold: vacancies in elected offices of mayor or
city council.  Additional bills may be added.

Education Funding Division
Chair: Sen. Lawrence Pogemiller
7 p.m. Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: Continuation of Friday's agenda.  S.F. 2090-Ranum:
Full day kindergarten and first grade preparedness.  S.F.
1851-Olson: Education voucher program.  S.F. 2057-Merriam:
Site decision making options.  S.F. 2355-Pogemiller:
Graduation requirements to include demonstration of
competencies in learning in socio-economically, racially and
ethnically diverse environments.  S.F. 2359-Pogemiller:
Class size and compensatory revenue changes.  S.F.
2354-Pogemiller: Staff development requirements.  S.F.
2370-Pappas: Establishing school site councils and performance
funding.  S.F. xxxx-Reichgott-Junge: Transportation choice
program.  

Wednesday, January 31

Gaming Regulation Committee
Chair: Sen. Charles Berg
8 a.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 2038-Berg: Operation of video lottery terminals
and pull-tab dispensing devices at licensed racetrack. S.F.
2052-Janezich: Card club activities at racetrack.

Governmental Operations and Veterans Committee
Chair: Sen. James Metzen
8 a.m. Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: Confirmation of appointments to the Minnesota State
Arts Board.  S.F. 2175-Metzen: University of Minnesota
hospital and Fairview hospital merger employees rights.

Transportation and Public Transit Committee
Chair: Sen. Carol Flynn
8 a.m.  Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1947-Ourada: Highway Service Sign Program. S.F.
2053-Vickerman: Medical waivers for truck drivers; S.F.
2146-Murphy: Use of safety cables on trailers. S.F. 2147-Murphy:
Truck lengths and combinations. S.F. 1793-Hanson:
Single license plate display for 1944-1946. S.F. 1865-Johnston:
Motorcycle license plates for Vietnam veterans.
S.F. 1813-Belanger: Requirements for accessible parking
spaces.

Education Funding Division
Chair: Sen. Lawrence Pogemiller
10 a.m. Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.

Health Care Committee
Chair:  Sen. Linda Berglin
10 a.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda:  S.F. 1928-Piper:  MDH prioritize complaints.  S.F.
1929-Piper:  MDH modifies requirements for health care
provider ID numbers.  S.F. 2130-Berglin:  CISN for Long Term
Care.  S.F. 2264-Samuelson:  County PMAP bill.  S.F.
1855-Samuelson:  Modify Rule 50.

Jobs, Energy and Community Development Committee
Chair: Sen. Steven Novak
10 a.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.

Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee
Chair: Sen. Leonard Price
12 noon  Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 2037-Metzen: Financial institutions bill.  Any
bills left over from Monday's agenda.

Ethics and Campaign Reform
Chair: Sen. John Marty
12 noon Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.

Crime Prevention Committee
Chair: Sen. Allan Spear
2 p.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1918-Belanger: Community crime control and law
enforcement grant program.  S.F. xxxx-Kelly: Neighborhood
juvenile policing initiative.  S.F. 2011-Wiener:  Criminal
vehicular homicide and injury extended to DWI fleeing the
scene of an accident.  S.F. 2044-Wiener: Domestic assault in
the presence of a child.  S.F. 2047-Spear: Vulnerable Adults
Act criminal background check modifications.  S.F. 2066-Knutson:
Mandatory minimum penalties for domestic assault. 
S.F. 2070-Cohen: Hennepin and Ramsey County juvenile
violence task forces.  S.F. 2136-Ranum: Electronic
monitoring in domestic abuse cases.  S.F. 2315-Spear:
Intensive community supervision transfer from DOC to courts.
S.F. 2322-Spear: Domestic abuse penalties and assessments.

Metropolitan and Local Government Committee
Chair: Sen. Jim Vickerman
2 p.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1843-Neuville: City of Morristown paying
electric costs.  S.F. 1844-Neuville: Rice county hospital
district reorganization.  S.F. 2168-Hottinger: City of
Mankato use of sales tax.  S.F. 2189-Vickerman: Minnesota
municipal board housekeeping bill.  S.F. 2214-Samuelson:
City of Baxter PUC members increased. S.F. xxxx-Janezich:
Referendum for new sports stadium.

Taxes and Tax Laws Subcommittee on Property Tax
Chair: Sen. John Hottinger
4 p.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1556-Hottinger: Property tax reform, amendment
to the Minnesota Constitution.  S.F. 1568-Novak: Property
tax reform.  S.F. 1684-Reichgott Junge: Amendment to the
Minnesota Constitution, state funding of education costs.
S.F. 1782-Runbeck: Property tax reform.

Joint House Ways & Means Senate Finance Subcommittee on
Claims
Co-chairs: Sen. Randy Kelly, Rep. Edgar Olson
6 p.m.  Room 500 S.O.B.
Agenda: Claims against the Department of Natural Resources.
Grace Hanson vs 4th Judicial District Court.  Veterans Bonus
bill.  Property claims against the Dept. of Corrections. 
Injury claims against Dept. of Corrections.  D.O.C.
reimbursement.

Crime Prevention Committee
Chair: Sen. Allan Spear
7 p.m. Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: Continuation of afternoon's agenda.

Thursday, February 1  

The Senate will meet at 8:30 a.m.                      

Health Care Committee
Chair:  Sen. Linda Berglin
10 a.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda:  S.F. 2332-Merriam:  Medical Practices bill.  S.F.
1939-Berglin/Kramer:  Requires itemized billing statement
for MA recipients.  S.F. 2317-Berglin:  Group Residential
Housing.  S.F. 1874-Berglin:  Utilization Review
Organization to provide patients with notification of its
determination.  S.F. 2185-Berglin:  Nursing home short stay
residents - recommendation by the Federal Cuts Task Force. 
S.F. 2020-Berglin:  Requesting commissioner of Health and
Human Services to seek a federal waiver - recommendation by
the Federal Cuts Task Force. S.F. 2025-Kiscaden: Governor's
Department of Human Services Health Care bill.

Higher Education Division
Chair: Sen. LeRoy Stumpf
10 a.m. Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: Status of student financial aid and governor's
budget recommendations for Higher Education Services Office
(HESO).  Capital budget recommendations for Board of
Trustees (MnSCU) and U of M.  Operating budget
recommendations for U of M and Board of Trustees (MnSCU). 

Jobs, Energy and Community Development Committee
Chair: Sen. Steven Novak
10 a.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.

Ethics and Campaign Reform Committee
Chair: Sen. John Marty
12 noon Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: To be Announced.

Crime Prevention Committee
Chair: Sen. Allan Spear
2 p.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: S.F. 1824-Laidig: Drivers license suspension,
revocation for fleeing a peace officer.  S.F. 1968-Beckman:
Assault of a firefighter or EMS worker.  S.F. 2089-Anderson:
Detention of probationers on order of non-CCA community
corrections agency directors.  S.F. 2134-Betzold: Motor
vehicle forfeiture for fleeing a peace officer.  S.F. 2385-Spear:
Probation administration. 

Metropolitan and Local Government Committee
Chair: Sen. Jim Vickerman
2 p.m. Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.

Health Care Committee
Chair:  Sen. Linda Berglin
6 p.m.  Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: Bills left over from morning, Tuesday (January 30th)
and Wednesday (January 31st) meetings.

Education Funding Division
Chair: Sen. Lawrence Pogemiller
7 p.m.. Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced. 

Friday, February 2

Governmental Operations and Veterans Committee
Chair: Sen. James Metzen
8 a.m. Room 15 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.

Judiciary Subcommittee on Family Law
Chair: Sen. Don Betzold
8:00 am  Room 107 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.

Transportation and Public Transit Committee
Chair: Sen. Carol Flynn
8 a.m.  Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: Study report of the Transportation Regulation
Board's powers, duties and functions.

Environment and Natural Resources Committee
Chair: Sen. Bob Lessard
10 a.m. Room 107 Capitol 
Agenda:   S.F. 2088-Lesewski: Authorizing certain
incinerators. S.F. 2306-Mondale: Environmental improvement
pilot program. S.F. 2113-Lessard: Modifying deer shining.
S.F. 2383-Lessard: Quartering of deer. S.F. 2384-Lessard:
Forestry bill. 

Education Funding Division
Chair: Sen. Lawrence Pogemiller
12 noon  Room 112 Capitol
Agenda: To be announced.