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STEVENS COUNTY REPUBLICANS 29841 US HWY 59 MORRIS, ,MN. 56267 |
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Link to official website sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn
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News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky aLERY 651-296-0101 2012 LEGISLATIVE WEEK 6 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: BUDGET UPDATE The Minnesota Department of Management and Budget released its February state budget forecast update on Wednesday, showing a dramatic turnaround from the $6.2 billion budget deficit in the November 2010 forecast. The numbers show a positive balance of $323 million, following an $876 million positive forecast last November. The turnaround assures Minnesota taxpayers that the $1 billion cash flow and budget reserve accounts required by law are replenished. The remaining $318 million will be used so the state can pay almost half of the school shift created by the last budget compromise on an earlier schedule than anticipated. This dramatic 15-month turnaround validates the fiscal discipline Republicans applied during last year's budgeting session, including reducing projected state spending for the biennium from 22 percent down to six percent. Minnesota is beginning to recover, and we will work to keep it on the right track by encouraging job creation and reforms that make government more affordable for taxpayers. REFORMING TEACHER LAYOFF PROCESS This week the Senate passed a bill that will end Minnesota’s strict “Last In, First Out” (LIFO) standard for layoffs of teachers that addresses only seniority and not performance. The change made by this bill would authorize schools to base layoff decisions on effectiveness before seniority, letting them keep quality teachers in the classroom. Minnesota is one of only 11 states that base layoffs on seniority, without consideration for teacher effectiveness. ALLOWING VETERANS HIRING PREFERENCES On Thursday, the Senate unanimously approved a plan to allow Minnesota companies the option to put in place their own veterans hiring programs where previously the federal government had prohibited hiring preference for veterans. In the years since 9/11 and the war on terrorism, U.S. veterans are currently experiencing unemployment at rates more the twice the general population. This rate is even higher in Minnesota where our Reserve Force has very high rates of volunteerism and deployment. The measure gives protections and allows, but does not mandate, that private companies have the option to take steps to help solve our state’s veteran employment crisis. STADIUM Legislative authors, the Governor, Vikings owners, the Minneapolis Mayor and others announced they had reached a tentative agreement and were introducing a bill. Early details from the working group determined that there will be two separate bills with two separate votes, one dealing with the Vikings stadium in specific and one to address the Target Center in Minneapolis. Plans released by the group said no new taxes would be required, either in Minneapolis or statewide, and no state General Funds would be requested. The Vikings would contribute more than half to the construction and operating expenses, and would be required to play in the new stadium for 30 years. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: BECKY ALERY 651-296-0101 2011 LEGISLATIVE WEEK 5 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: FIRST NEW LAW – TEACHER BASIC SKILLS On Wednesday, a bipartisan bill was signed into law to require teachers to successfully complete a basic skills examination in math, reading, and writing prior to receiving a license as a classroom teacher. The National Council on Teacher Quality released a report in 2010 giving Minnesota the grade of “D” for “delivering well-prepared teachers” and advised the state to close licensure loopholes. The Senate approved the bill on a 60-1 vote, and the House unanimously endorsed it last week before heading to the Governor for passage. SEX OFFENDERS The Senate unanimously passed a bill which I co-authored Thursday that amends the state law on public notification for sex offenders which Governor Dayton signed into law. This bill allows full community notification upon the transfer of the sex offender from the Minnesota Sex Offender Program to a residential treatment facility, such as a halfway house. The measure was fast-tracked and received near unanimous support in both houses after the announcement that a high-risk pedophile held for 19 years in the Minnesota Sex Offender Program will be discharged to a St. Paul halfway house under a precedent-setting ruling. It is effective immediately. PERSONAL PROTECTION On Thursday, another bill that I am proud to have co-authored passed through the Senate taking a great step forward for gun owners and gun rights. The Defense of Dwelling and Person Act makes four changes to existing self-defense laws: It removes the “duty to retreat” provision, creates a presumption of reasonableness that protects the victim if they defend themselves, allows victims to use force against violent felonies, and protects victims who use justified force in self defense from facing criminal prosecution. The measure also addresses state government weapon seizure during state of emergencies, and recognizes permits to carry or licenses from another state. STATE RULEMAKING SF1631 would stop state agencies from passing more burdensome rules on small businesses by implementing a two-year rulemaking moratorium. Many businesses from across the state have spoken out that it is hard to grow and create jobs while dealing with the numerous agency rules that stifle operations. There are a few exceptions to this bill with the most notable being for serious threats to public health and for the DNR. REDISTRICTING Maps redrawing legislative and congressional district lines for this fall’s elections were released Tuesday. The redistricting exercise is done every 10 years after the census. There were some surprises in the court-ordered plan, including 48 legislative matchups, and 23 new open districts. My district was changed significantly and I was placed into a district with Senator Hoffman. The district I was placed in (Senate District 8) includes Otter Tail County and half of Douglas County, leaving the remaining portion of my current district as an open seat. Please remember that I continue to represent District 11 and look forward to continuing to do so throughout the remainder of 2012. To see how the change will affect you for the upcoming election, go to the state Geographic Information Services website at www.gis.leg.mn/html/redistricting.html, click on the interactive map and enter your address. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky aLERY 651-296-0101 2011 LEGISLATIVE WEEK 3 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: PRECINCT CAUCUSES Although this year’s caucuses did not set attendance records, the lively national Republican race did put Minnesota in the media spotlight again this year. I want to thank everyone who attended. Your participation is what makes our political process responsible to its citizens. Thank you! LIMITING GOVERNMENT RULEMAKING TO ENCOURAGE JOBS Last week, we passed a bill though committee that would create a board to review government rules to determine the rule’s impact on small businesses and also to recommend changes to laws in order to make them less burdensome for job creation. The Senate Jobs and Economic Growth committee also approved a bill that would stop executive branch rule making for two years in order to ease regulatory burdens on businesses. This bill sends a message to our job creators that we are serious about making our state the best place to do business. REFORM & REDESIGN SUBCOMMITTEE BEGINS On Friday, the new Subcommittee on Reform & Redesign had their first meeting and heard an update on consolidation of information technology systems and services. The bipartisan committee will review existing policies and enable legislation that makes government operations more effective and efficient while serving Minnesota citizens in the digital age. CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE FUND PROTECTION In December 2011, a temporary restraining order was issued by the Ramsey County Court blocking a vote unionizing child day care, authorized by Governor Dayton’s earlier executive order. Although the matter is not completely settled and the summary judgment is now scheduled for February 22, one legislative option has been introduced in the House and Senate that will prevent unions from taking taxpayer dollars intended for the care of children, whether as union dues or “fair share” fees. The measure had a successful hearing in the House. COMING UP On Wednesday evening, February 15, a Joint Convention of the House and Senate will receive Governor Mark Dayton's State of the State address. Fortunately, the “state of the state” is much more healthy this year, something that we can all embrace. Citizens will need to look at the results of the past year and see that a lot went into our move from a $5.2 billion dollar shortfall a year ago to an $876 million surplus today. This change occurred because of our tough choices on spending, prioritizing needs, providing regulatory reform and allowing businesses the freedom to grow, rather than new taxes to support higher spending. Governor Dayton is expected to speak on his goals for this session: passage of a $775 bonding bill and a stadium bill, both of which are tied to his jobs agenda. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky Alery 651-296-0101 2012 LEGISLATIVE WEEK 2 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITTING EFFICIENCY Last year in a bi-partisan manner the legislature and the Administration moved forward in decreasing the time and costs in the environmental review and permitting process while also adding certainty and clarification to permittees. I look forward to again move to identify areas that can be streamlined, increase efficiencies, remove duplication and overlap and bring into the 21st Century the regulatory process in Minnesota. SF 1567, which I chief authored, is a permitting efficiency bill endorsed and supported by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. The bill passed out of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee this week and is now headed to the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Committee. As companies look to expand in this international economy, one of the area they areas they review besides taxes, energy costs and workforce is how long it will take to obtain a permit for their expansion or building of their new facility. I pledge to find and alleviate as many areas on of concern that I can to create jobs and promote economic development in Minnesota while still ensuring our environment is protected for future generations. I believe this bill is a great positive step for Minnesota and I look forward to working with the Governor and his administration in creating a better business environment in our state. COMMISSIONER CONFIRMATIONS On Monday, the Senate confirmed three of Governor Dayton’s commissioner appointees: Public Safety Commissioner Ramona Dohman, DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr, Mn/DOT Commissioner Thomas K. Sorel. Public Safety Commissioner Dohman has nearly 30 years of experience in law enforcement, and has served in police departments in both the metro area and greater Minnesota. She will be the first female Public Safety Commissioner. Transportation Commission Sorel has over 30 years of experience, served under both Dayton and Gov. Tim Pawlenty, and has federal government experience. He turned the morale at MnDOT around after it had been very low. DNR Commissioner Landwehr is the former Assistant State Director for The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and now oversees a DNR staff of about 2,700 located in St. Paul and around the state. My committee worked with Commissioner Landwehr throughout the 2011 session and I believe he will do an excellent job leading the DNR. I look forward to continuing that work this year. TAX RELIEF FOR JOB GROWTH This week, the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Committee passed one of several tax relief bills that will be a top priority this year addressing the business property tax issue. Minnesota taxes employers twice on their business property; they pay local property taxes as well as a general statewide property tax. As Minnesota’s economy begins to recover, reducing and phasing out the business property tax is a way to make Minnesota an attractive state to do business and sends a strong signal to job creators that they can feel confident to invest and expand. PRECINCT CAUCUSES This upcoming Tuesday (February 7th) marks Minnesota’s Precinct Caucus day. Precinct caucuses are public meetings of eligible voters from each precinct. Each of Minnesota's major political parties (Republican, DFL, and Independence) have separate caucuses. If you are unsure of where your caucus is being held, you can visit the Minnesota Secretary of State website and enter your address into their Polling Place Finder (http://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us). You can also call state political parties for more detailed partisan information. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky ALERY 651-296-0101 2012 LEGISLATIVE WEEK 1 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: The 2012 session has begun and is off with a bang! A NEW SESSION The 2012 session convened this past Tuesday and for the first time in years with a surplus rather than a budget deficit – nearly $1 billion. This is a great budget improvement from the $5.2 billion deficit the that was inherited in the 2011 Legislative Session. This impressive feat was met making tough choices on the spending side of the budget, prioritizing the state’s needs, providing regulatory reform and enhancing job growth. This budget surplus provides not only opportunities as we move ahead, but allows the 2012 Session to focus on much needed government reforms and helping job creators put Minnesotans back to work. SESSION SCHEDULE The Senate will observe a brief break on Monday, Feb. 6 and Tuesday, Feb. 7, so senators can return to their districts for precinct caucuses. To find out where your caucus will be held, please visit the Secretary of State's link here: http://caucusfinder.sos.state.mn.us/ The Senate will reconvene at noon on Wednesday. Governor Dayton has announced that he will give his second State of the State address Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. in the House chambers. VOTER ID I joined a number of Senate Republicans who introduced legislation this week allowing Minnesotans to decide whether to amend the state constitution to require voters to show identification in elections. Despite overwhelming public support for Voter ID, Gov. Dayton vetoed a bill last session that would have required voters to provide photo identification before receiving a ballot. Polls have indicated that 75% or more of Minnesotans want a photo ID requirement to vote. PROPERTY TAX RELIEF Homeowners who are have seen increases and whose property taxes are high relative to income should look at the state’s property tax refund program (PTR). The Legislature included a $30 million expansion of the program, which provides direct relief to homeowners. This is an important reform that provides relief directly to homeowners most in need, and should offset increases that may have occurred with changes to state tax law. Along with this increase in the PTR program, there is an additional program specifically for homeowners whose property taxes increased more than 12 percent and $100. Homeowners can see if they are eligible for these two programs at MN Department of Revenue website. http://taxes.state.mn.us/prop_refund/pages/refund_information_content_homeowners_refund.aspx Redistricting Our state Constitution gives the Legislature responsibility in redrawing our legislative district lines every 10 years, after the census is taken. The courts will unveil the new district lines on February 21. All 134 House and 67 Senate Districts will be redrawn and all senators and representatives will be up for election on Nov. 6. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky ALERY 651-296-0101 2012 Legislative Session Preview BUDGET In November, state economists surprised us in releasing a forecast that showed Minnesota moving into positive budget columns again after collecting more than expected in tax revenue. For our budget to continue to be positive we must encourage economic recovery and allow for our economy to thrive creating jobs for hard-working Minnesotans and families. The upcoming 2012 legislative session is an opportunity to improve the business climate, reduce burdensome regulations, and provide the environment for small and large businesses to grow jobs here in Minnesota. PERMITTING Last session, we passed legislation that streamlined the permitting process. We will certainly continue to build on the successes we had by moving further ahead on streamlining the permitting process to bring about more efficiency for businesses and individuals. A number of businesses and job creators around the state have appreciated our common sense, bipartisan reform efforts to get Minnesotans back to work. We must continue our work and move forward on our efforts streamlining government and creating private sector job growth. STADIUM The Vikings, whose lease at the Metrodome runs out after this season, want to build a new $1.1 billion stadium in Arden Hills and would offer up $425 million if it were built there. Other sites have been offered for consideration, including the retrofit of the Metrodome, two other sites in Minneapolis and Shakopee. Two legislative, informative meetings took place at the Capitol in November and December to discuss the location of a new stadium as well as funding sources. A new stadium bill has not been introduced, but authors say it will have bi-partisan and statewide support. EDUCATION In 2010 Republicans revitalized Minnesota schools through accountability and reform by repealing several state mandates to give school districts more budget flexibility and additionally connecting teacher and principal evaluations to student test scores to increase accountability. K-12 education will be a central focus of numerous policy initiatives including system reforms, expanding choice for students and families, and reducing costs. A number of proposals discussed last session will return for consideration, including revising tenure rules such as the last-in, first-out policy, ensuring high school graduates are prepared to enter the workforce, and flexibility the state and districts are given in implementing their own programs. HIGHER EDUCATION The Higher Education funding bill passed during the 2011 session funded priorities while reducing bureaucratic overhead and encouraging true structural reforms. The bill included student-friendly initiatives such as increased funding for the Minnesota State Grant Program, increased funding for the State Work Study Program, maintained current funding levels for the Child Care Grant program, and included a tuition cap. In order to build on that success, members of the Senate Higher Education Committee have used the interim period to travel the state to visit with campus faculty, staff, administrators and students to discuss solutions and listen to ideas to encourage the long-term health and effectiveness of Minnesota’s higher education system. Legislators plan to use those experiences and conversations to help guide legislation in 2012 to further improve Minnesota’s schools. AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES All Minnesota lawmakers consider aquatic invasive species (AIS), Asian Carp and Zebra Mussels in particular, to be a serious threat to our natural resources across the state, and have a significant sense of urgency in dealing with this issue. Minnesota’s lakes, rivers and streams are an invaluable resource to our state, and I plan to continue the aggressive work and build on last year’s successes, including providing more authority for inspections and enforcements, restricting use in infested waters and providing education to service providers and the general public. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill
December 30, 2011 Moving Minnesota Forward As we turn the calendar from the holiday season, we can see that the 2012 Legislative Session is right around the corner. This year’s activity at the capitol is scheduled to be shorter; we are set to convene on January 24th and wrap up near the end of April. As you may know, the majority party in the Minnesota Senate recently made a series of adjustments in our caucus leadership. I am optimistic that our new leadership team’s approach and actions will build Minnesota’s confidence. We are proud to have Senator Dave Senjem of Rochester reprise his role as caucus leader and look forward to working alongside the new assistant majority leaders as we continue to advance our primary objectives of private sector job growth, state government reform and limiting spending. Senate Republicans made a major difference in 2011; we achieved a balanced budget without raising taxes and exercised spending restraint that has helped lead to an $876 million surplus. As chair of the Senate Environment Committee, I am currently planning the full committee’s agenda for the upcoming legislative session. We must continue to work together to provide common sense legislation that allows for job growth while also providing protections so future generations can enjoy our pristine natural resources and wilderness. We will certainly continue to build on the successes we had last session by moving further ahead on streamlining the permitting process to bring about more efficiency for businesses and individuals. A number of businesses and job creators around the state have appreciated our common sense, bipartisan reform efforts to get Minnesotans back to work. We must continue our work and move forward on our efforts streamlining government and creating private sector job growth I expect the environment committee to continue the aggressive work we have done to fight aquatic invasive species. I consider aquatic invasive species, Asian Carp and Zebra Mussels in particular, to be a serious threat to our natural resources across the state, and we must have a sense of urgency in dealing with this issue. The legislature passed a number of policy changes last session that I believe will help combat the spread of aquatic invasive species. The legislation provided more authority for inspections and enforcements, restricting use in infested waters and providing education to service providers and the general public. We also increased AIS funding by 97.7% from $8,332,000 in the 2010-11 biennium to $16,472,000 in 2012-13. Next session, we will again look at AIS and look for ways to improve current policies to prevent their spread. We must also look into promoting research to devise scientific methods to control or eliminate aquatic invasive species from infested lakes, rivers and streams. I look forward to working together with the public, stakeholder groups, and government agencies in promoting policies that create jobs, streamline government, and save taxpayers money while also ensure our resources are maintained for future generations to enjoy. Please feel free to contact me at the State Capitol; I encourage your feedback and suggestions. Have a Happy New Year and a prosperous 2012! Sincerely, Bill Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release November 25, 2011 Contact: Rebecca Alery 651-296-0101 Thanksgiving - Thankful to Be a Minnesotan Dear Friends, Thanksgiving is one of the few truly American holidays. Originally, a celebration of our blessings and survival as a budding nation of immigrants, it has become a time for self-scrutiny and appreciation for our lot in life. However, this fall, we should pause to look at our lives and truly give thanks for how blessed we all are. We Minnesotans have many things to be thankful for during these hard economic times. Minnesota leads the nation in education, healthcare, literacy rate – the list goes on. We have a high quality of life in Minnesota, and we all benefit from maintaining it. Certainly, there are many issues that can, and must, be improved. As your state senator, I will work every day to continue to ensure that our quality of life is something for which we can all be thankful. This year I will give thanks for my loved ones and for all the blessings and freedoms I have received in life. Moreover, I will be sure to remember to give thanks for the strength of generations of Americans who have strived and sacrificed to make our nation as great as it is. Sincerely, Bill Ingebrigtsen State Senator, District 11 State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 303 State Capitol Building, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn. Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky Alery 651-296-0101 Veterans’ Day Dear Friends: Since September 11, 2001, more than 22,000 Minnesota Guard members have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan for extended periods, many multiple times. When these citizen soldiers leave our local communities, the impact is great. Minnesota provides a disproportionately large number of men and women to our military, and recruiters say our state provides no shortage of men and women ready to sign up for duty. Each Minnesota veteran is one of millions of American veterans who have set aside their personal lives, their plans and relationships and safety, in order to protect fellow citizens and to ensure the liberty of a country they love. Unfortunately, our veterans pay a high price on our behalf with their service for this country, and will continue to face social, physical and emotional challenges when they return home. According to state figures, the unemployment rate for Minnesota veterans who have served since 9/11 is nearly 23 percent, the third highest in the nation. It is almost double the national average and more than three times the state’s overall unemployment rate. Fortunately, many private groups, volunteers and state services are preparing to help them and their families readapt to civilian life. Over the years, the state has created new programs and built on others to help returning vets and their families. We invested in a program to help military veterans reintegrate into society after their service and expanded educational programs for soldiers and their families. During these hard economic times, we must not forget our veterans who sacrificed so much for us. Our state faced a record deficit last year and tough decisions had to be made. I am proud that we prioritized veterans and ensured they received the benefits they deserve. We provided more or maintained funding for veterans homes, higher education assistance, and allowed for property tax exemptions for surviving spouses and certain care providers for disabled veterans. I also chief authored bills that allowed for Gold Star license plates eligibility expansion for surviving legal guardians and siblings, Game and Fish lottery and drawing preference provisions for Purple Heart recipients and those with a 100% military service disability and veterans rest camps. I will continue to fight for veterans receiving the benefits they have earned defending our freedom. Next session, I will look at introducing legislation that will eliminate state taxes on veteran’s pensions. We as a state cannot take a share of the money they earned defending our nation. This Veterans’ Day, I urge us all to think of one man or woman we know who has sacrificed everything we take for granted. I offer up my deepest thanks for those who carry more than their share of this country’s weight. Without their willingness to carry out the actions our leaders deem necessary, our nation would be less than great. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill ### State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 303 Capitol, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn. Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky Alery 651-296-0101 January 4, 2011 Senator Bill G. Ingebrigtsen Sworn in as Member of Republican-Led Legislature (ST. PAUL) -- Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-11) was sworn in Tuesday as Minnesota’s 87th legislative session began. Joined by 36 fellow Republican senators, Republicans are now in the Senate majority for the first time in over thirty years. “I am truly honored to serve the residents of District 11 for another term,” remarked Senator Ingebrigtsen. “I look forward to working for the constituents of my district and using common-sense goals that all Minnesotans want and expect: an improved business climate, a balanced budget and a government that is more efficient and more effective.” Previously the Senate’s ranking minority member on the Finance-Public Safety Budget Division, Senator Ingebrigtsen will serve as Chair of the Environmental and Natural Resources Budget and Policy Committee in the new majority. Senator Ingebrigtsen looks forward to working aggressively and immediately on environmental policies and initiatives. He and fellow legislators seek to streamline regulatory and permitting processes in order to create a more business-friendly climate. Senator Ingebrigtsen will meet with newly appointed Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Commissioner Paul Aasen later this week to begin preliminary discussions on this and other topics. State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 303 Capitol, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn. Attached photo includes Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen and Judge Tom Neuville. Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky aLERY 651-296-0101 January 21, 2011 2011 LEGISLATIVE WEEks 1, 2 & 3 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: The 2011 legislative session is underway! I would like to express how honored I am to represent and serve the residents of District 11 for another term and thank you all for your support this past election cycle. I am looking forward to working for you throughout the 2011 session by focusing on government living within its means, putting Minnesotans back to work and streamlining government services. Here is an update from the past three weeks: JOB CREATION Senate File 1 was introduced last week with the intention of creating lasting jobs in Minnesota. Minnesota’s combined federal and state tax rate rank third highest in the world. The bill reduces the business tax rate by 50% over 6 years. This will help promote Minnesota and get jobs coming back to our state. Also, the bill will streamline environmental permitting and make it easier for businesses to grow. This does not mean our environmental standards will be reduced in any way. It will just make sure the process is transparent, clear and timely. LEADING BY EXAMPLE One of our first actions in the Senate this year was slashing our daily per diem by ten percent. Minnesotans are hurting during these tough economic times. Our state government cannot keep asking for more funds while the rest of us are not seeing any increases in pay and in some cases are seeing pay reductions. I felt it was necessary to lead by example and I strongly supported the reductions. The measure saved the state nearly $100,000. While this does not solve our $6.2 billion deficit, it does set the tone for the legislative session. State government must live within its means. Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Debit Card/Welfare Reform Government living within its means includes efficient use of Minnesotans tax dollars. Recent news has shown that the current use of EBT cards are in some cases being abused. I believe that some people truly need the help from the government during hard times in their lives. However, it is not fair for hardworking taxpayers to have their dollars be abused by people trying to scam the system. I have introduced a bill that will close the loopholes and bring some accountability to the EBT program. My bill requires participants to live in Minnesota for at least 3 months. The bill also prohibits cardholders from purchasing alcohol, tobacco, candy, dietary supplements and soft drinks. There were also several people that would withdraw cash from the card and spend it on items such as drugs and tattoos. I felt that discontinuing EBT cardholders’ ability to withdraw cash at ATMs would help eliminate this problem and make sure people are buying approved goods. Also, all newly issued cards would have a photo ID on it to prevent fraud. I believe that these reforms will not hinder social services but make sure people who need help are getting it and people who want to scam and waste taxpayer dollars are no longer able to abuse it. PHASE ONE BUDGET SOLUTION Senate Republicans introduced the “Early Action” budget bill (SF60) that cuts a whopping $1 billion of the budget deficit. The bill cuts spending for state agencies by $200 million in the current budget, makes various one-time reductions permanent and reduces the long-term deficit by another $840 million. The remainder of the reductions in the measure are continuations of reductions and non-increases –most of which were approved by the DFL-controlled legislature last year – including holding Local Government Aid (LGA) at current levels while leaving the current formula in place. This is a strong bill. It is fiscally responsible, defines our priorities, and protects education- all while forcing government to live within its means. Committee hearings are set to commence soon. NEXT WEEK Hearings will continue on the budget and our jobs creation bill as main priorities. The Senate Energy, Utility & Telecommunications Committee will begin hearings on a plan to lift the 17-year ban on permitting new nuclear power plants. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill =========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 123 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky aLERY 651-296-0101 2011 LEGISLATIVE WEEK 5 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: In the past month, the Legislature made great strides toward reforming state government and improving Minnesota’s job climate. I have worked with business and industry leaders around the state, taken the first step toward balancing the budget, and passed reforms that will improve our delivery of government services. Here is an update on this week’s actions. FIRST STEP BUDGET BILL PASSED The Minnesota Senate took nearly a $1 billion step toward balancing a projected $6.2 billion state budget deficit Thursday. The Senate passed Senate File 60, which addresses spending problems by making one-time reductions from 2010 permanent and prevents state agencies from misusing funds at the end of the year. The bill is fiscally responsible, sets clear priorities and makes government live within its means. I am pleased that we are able to keep our word to the people of Minnesota and start taking the necessary steps to get our state back to living within its means. This bill is the first step in a line of many to reduce the massive deficit left before us. GOV. DAYTON REQUESTS BILLION IN BONDING This week Governor Mark Dayton announced his intention for a $1 billion bonding bill, spending $531 million on designated projects and offering $469 million for lawmakers to designate. While a borrowing bill is not inherently bad, Dayton’s off-year request is extremely irresponsible in light of a current $6.2 billion state budget deficit. I believe bonding should only be used for emergency repairs of state-owned facilities and flood relief or necessary prevention activities, not for indefinite “stimulus” projects. Rather than spending money for a new baseball stadium in St. Paul and a basketball arena in Minneapolis, we need to be fiscally responsible and spend on what we need not what we want. We need to focus on getting folks back to work, not racking up the state’s credit card. ALTERNATIVE TEACHER LICENSING With strong bipartisan support, the Senate passed a plan to create an alternative pathway into the classroom for well-qualified candidates. Alternative licensure is a tool that can attract well-educated professionals into our teaching ranks. It allows diverse and dedicated people to teach our children with real business and professional experiences in the classroom. NUCLEAR ENERGY FOR OUR FUTURE This week, the Minnesota Senate gave bipartisan approval to a bill that will lift the nuclear moratorium in Minnesota. With a vote of 50-14, the Senate passed a bill to repeal the nuclear power prohibition. Nuclear energy is clean, inexpensive, and lowers our dependence on foreign oil and gas. It is important for Minnesota to have all options on the table when it comes to planning its energy needs for the future. Lifting the ban allows nuclear energy to be at least part of the discussion. This bill is a path to energy independence offering certainty for businesses and job creators as they plan for tomorrow and work to keep existing jobs. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill =========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 123 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release 2011 LEGISLATIVE WEEk 5 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: This legislative session continues to be interesting and challenging. We continue to work towards creating job growth and solving the budget deficit. Here is a summary of the activity of this week. STATE OF THE STATE Governor Dayton addressed a joint session of the Legislature Wednesday. The Governor is committed to massive public spending increases despite being faced with a looming $6.2 billion deficit. He reemphasized his commitment towards enormous tax increases to businesses and “the rich.” I believe that job creation and getting folks back to work should be our top priority and tax increases will slow recovery. With a healthy economy, the rest of the budget issues will work themselves out so the faster we can get jobs back, the faster we will be out of this fiscal mess. I hope the Governor will focus on job creation, not tax creation. EARLY ACTION BUDGET BILL APPROVED, PROMPTLY VETOED On Thursday, the Senate and House passed a combined “phase one” budget bill. The bill contained $900 million worth of budget cuts; a great first step in addressing Minnesota’s massive deficit, however, Gov. Dayton vetoed it in record time. This measure would have extended the one-year budget reductions that the DFL majorities and Governor Pawlenty passed at the end of the 2010 session. Many Minnesotans are in a world of hurt and raising taxes will only hurt them further. Our state needs to live within its means, and I am disappointed that in our first chance to start solving the problem was vetoed without any consideration. CONSTRUCTION RED TAPE A bill unanimously passed in the Senate Monday, and will help jobs in the residential construction and contracting industry in Minnesota. The current law requires contractors to be certified in lead specialization when remodeling pre-1978 houses. This does not allow enough time for builders and contractors to acquire a permit, resulting in a loss of business and a loss of jobs. I believe one of the best ways to create jobs in Minnesota is to get bureaucratic red tape out of the way of hardworking Minnesotans, and this bipartisan measure does just that. LOOKING AHEAD Governor Dayton will present his fiscal year 2012-13 budget proposal on Tuesday, February 15 and the Minnesota Management and Budget Department will issue its budget forecast on February 28. Both are important actions that will drive the debate at the Capitol and across the state until the budget is balanced. On March 1, with up-to-date numbers in hand, committee chairs will begin setting budgets for the divisions for which they are responsible. Also next week, look for the Senate to begin hearing bills aimed at reforming the rural preserve program under “Green Acres” tax classification, and the Higher Education Committee will hear a bill that proposes to temporarily freeze tuition rates at MnSCU and University of Minnesota campuses. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill =========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 123 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky aLERY 651-296-0101 2011 LEGISLATIVE WEEk 6 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: GOV. DAYTON UNVEILS BUDGET On Tuesday, Governor Mark Dayton introduced his budget proposal for the upcoming biennium. Dayton’s proposal included moving the state’s top income tax rate to 13.95 percent, which would make Minnesota the owner of the highest income tax rate in the country by nearly 3 percent. Now would be the worst time to increase taxes, which would stifle growth and send us back into a recession. Dayton’s proposal also includes a 22% increase in spending for 2012 & 2013. Our main focus this session is jobs. We need to make certain that businesses know that we are open for business. Having the highest tax rate in the nation is not going to drive businesses to our state. We need to create a setting that encourages job growth and puts Minnesotans back to work. I am committed to making Minnesota a state that lives within its means and look forward to working with my colleagues and the Governor to ensure that the budget that we pass this session does what is best for Minnesotans. A link to the chart leaders shared can be found at: http://www.scribd.com/doc/48909160/statetaxactions-2#fullscreen:on LOCAL GOVERNMENT SALES TAX RELIEF A group of lawmakers are proposing legislation that will give additional relief to Minnesota cities concerned about potential cuts to local government aid (LGA). The measure would allow them to keep more of their own money, rather than paying some in sales tax and hoping for its return in state aid. Currently, most sales to local units of government including cities, counties and townships in Minnesota are taxable. This bipartisan proposal would repeal the sales and use tax liability for cities, counties, and townships. I am a firm believer that most decision making is best done at a local level. The cities and towns across the state of Minnesota are better equipped to know what they need and what their priorities are, and it is our job to allow them the ability to make those decisions. FIRST NEW LAW A measure helping thousands of workers in the residential construction and contracting industry in Minnesota is the first new law of the 2011 Session. Due to a glitch in the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) instructions to the contractor, the previous law prevented builders from being added to their website for required verification and resulted in job loss. This new bill requires building contractors to become certified in lead specialization when remodeling pre-1978 houses as requested by Builders Association of Minnesota. I believe of the best ways to create jobs in Minnesota is to use common sense and cut the bureaucratic red tape out of the way of hardworking Minnesotans. LOOKING AHEAD Senate Committees, including the Environment and Natural Resources Committee that I chair, will continue to hear budget recommendations from agency commissioners throughout the week. On Monday, the House and Senate will meet in a joint session to vote to confirm new members of the U of MN Board of Regents and later in the week the Finance Committee will hear two bills that work to reform the state’s health care delivery system. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill =========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 123 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen
Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky Alery 651-296-0101 2011 LEGISLATIVE WEEK 11 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: Budget Update Yesterday, I presented my recommended budget reduction to the Environment Committee. We will continue to work through the budget bill this upcoming week and hopefully pass it this Tuesday. The Senate Agriculture and Judiciary committees also began discussions of their omnibus budget bills working to meet the aggressive March 25 date for finance committees to report appropriations bills. Tax Bill Pays Back Pays Delayed Refunds, Brings Conformity A bi-partisan, unanimous vote of the Minnesota Senate advanced a measure this week to bring the state’s individual income and corporate franchise taxes into conformity with recent federal changes. The measure fulfills the state’s commitment to pay back previously delayed corporate franchise and sales tax refunds to Minnesota businesses. The bill (House File 79) has the support of revenue department officials and Governor Dayton has indicated that he will sign it. State Employee Pension Contribution A bill introduced this week would shift 3 percent of responsibility for taxpayer-paid pensions to government employees. The change includes legislators and all state and local government staff except firefighters and police officers. This bill brings government employee pension participation more in line with contributions made by private-sector workers. I believe current taxpayer liability to government employee pensions is unsustainable. This measure would relieve local government obligations to pensions, freeing up funds to be used for needs like local property tax relief. We need to live within our means, and this bill will save the state’s General Fund approximately $50 million in the first biennium. Community Paramedics Will Help Rural Residents A bill to allow experienced paramedics to become certified by the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board as “community paramedics” passed the Senate with unanimous bipartisan support. The measure would allow paramedics to be certified after 120 additional hours of training. The plan would benefit rural Minnesota, whose citizens are sometimes at a disadvantage in their ability to receive the proper care. The goal is to provide additional care with already existing health care resources. Tax Credits for Low-Income Scholarships An interesting bill progressing through Senate committees is one for tax credits for businesses and individuals to create scholarships to benefit low-income students and both public and private schools statewide. Using tutors, preschool assistance, and need-based scholarships, the program seeks to help families and schools raise graduation rates and help individuals achieve a brighter future. Census & Redistricting Newly released census numbers will begin the once-a-decade redistricting process that adjusts the boundaries of all eight Congressional Districts and most of the state's 201 legislative districts according to population. The target population for each congressional district is about 663,000. The 4th, 5th and 7th Congressional Districts have to pick up the most population in order to ensure that every district has equal representation whereas the 2nd and 6th Congressional districts have to give up population. The State Demographer also released the population for each Minnesota Senate District. Surveys We kindly ask you to provide us with your input regarding the 2011 legislative session by participating in this legislative survey. Your thoughts and opinions are very helpful to us as we represent you at your Capitol. Find the joint survey with your representative below: Joint survey with Rep. Franson here: http://bit.ly/gSlEMc Joint survey with Rep. Westrom here: http://svy.mk/elWMF0 Coming Up Lawmakers will face long hours of hearings as committees roll out detailed government funding spreadsheets and take testimony next week to meet the upcoming deadline. On Monday, the Committee on State Government Innovation and Veterans will begin hearings on the public employees’ pension shift bill and a salary reduction for state employees and elected officials. The Commerce & Consumer Protection Committee will hear SF 858 on Wednesday. That measure explores federal health coverage mandate compliance requirements, and seeks to repeal certain mandated health benefits. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill =========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 303 State Capitol Building, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky Alery 651-296-0101 2011 Legislative Week 13 in Review Dear Friends: This week the Senate passed nine of the 11 budget bills to fulfill our pledge to the taxpayers to balance the budget without raising taxes. These bills fund everything from Minnesota’s environment and public safety to education and health & human services Together, these bills create a budget that allows the state to operate within its means while investing our resources into the programs, groups and departments that are our core responsibilities. We cover the sick and vulnerable through responsible and necessary health care and public safety programs. We make education reforms that increase overall funding to K-12 and special education, and financial aid for college students. As for Environment, we are making much needed reforms within our division to ensure a brighter future tomorrow. Moving up the budget deadline to the end of March allows us to emphasize the need for openness and transparency unlike the last minute deals and late-night meetings of the past. We still have much work ahead to finalize the budget and I am committed to working with my colleagues to make sure this happens in a timely fashion. Health & Human Services The Senate’s health care proposal is a 6-percent increase from current spending. This is an overall reduction of $1.6 billion of the requested spending for FY 2012-2013. The measure is based on efforts to reform state-subsidized health care delivery systems, and focuses on moving government regulation of the health care industry to a more incentive-based approach. Education Our education budget bill increases funding for schools statewide while providing significant mandate relief to local school districts, reforming spending to target early literacy programs, and providing the necessary tools for classroom success. The bill provides even-handed treatment of all school districts and students by increasing the per-pupil allowance by $50 each year. I believe that reading is a fundamental building block for education and am pleased that this bill creates incentives to promote reading proficiency and growth in our classrooms. In addition, a $1,000 stipend is available for current teachers that pass the newly-approved Board of Teaching reading instruction assessment. Other measures to improve efficiency and emphasize student achievement included in this bill will allow districts to save jobs and programs, prevent excessive fees, and restore reserves. State Government The State Government Innovation and Veterans budget bill finds efficiencies through consolidation, agency reform and spending reductions. A key provision of this bill requires the executive branch to reduce the number of state agency employees by 15 percent by June 15, 2015. An appointing authority may use attrition, a hiring freeze, early retirement incentives authorized in the bill, furloughs, and layoffs to accomplish this reduction. Over the next biennium, this reduction of the state’s workforce is estimated to save over $70 million in General Fund money. Next Week Next week, the Senate will hear the transportation omnibus bill and a tax bill that will provide a solid tax relief package to individuals, businesses, and property owners across Minnesota. I will be taking the members of the Environment & Natural Resources Committee to Moorhead for a joint hearing with the Capital Investment Committee on the 2011 Red River Valley Flood Update and Impact. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill =========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 303 State Capitol Building, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky Alery 651-296-0101 2011 LEGISLATIVE WEEK 15 IN REVIEW Dear Friends: Lawmakers had a busy week ahead of next Monday’s 3 PM adjournment for the Passover/Easter holiday. This week, the Senate finalized the first of 10 conference committee reports, and sent the noncontroversial Agriculture Committee budget to the Governor. Other committees continue to meet with members of the Senate and House working out differences in their budget bills. Agriculture & Rural Economies Budget Signed A joint Senate-House Conference Committee has received bipartisan support and headed to Gov. Mark Dayton's desk, who signed the bill Friday in a public ceremony. Minnesota has the sixth largest state agriculture economy in the nation thanks to our farmers, producers, researchers and advocates. The continued health and growth of this industry is vital to a full economic recovery in Minnesota. The budget reflects a focus on our priorities and our commitment to ensuring the health and success of the agriculture industry. Green Acres Bill Signed Legislation intended to reform Minnesota’s Green Acres program was signed by Governor Dayton on Friday, April 15. HF 12/SF222 passed the Senate Thursday with a bi-partisan vote of 45-15. The legislation intends to protect farmers from rising property taxes due to nearby commercial and residential development. Coal Moratorium Reconsidered The Minnesota Senate gave bipartisan approval to lifting restrictions on carbon dioxide emissions from coal production that prevented both construction of new coal plants in the state, and purchase of energy from new coal plants in neighboring states. I think this bill is necessary as it will allow the state to keep up with what is expected to be growing energy needs that is important to maintain economic growth. Bill Targets “Designer Drugs” The Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee passed a drug omnibus bill with bipartisan support that includes provisions relating to designer drugs, analogs, and water from water pipes used with controlled substances. Specifically, the bill makes it illegal to sell or possess synthetic cannabinoids. Designer drugs, created and modified by users to skirt the law, represent one of the most significant dangers in the war on drugs. This bill raises the penalty on modified substances and their analogs yet to be designed, and gives Minnesota law enforcement and prosecutors the support they need to keep our citizens safe. Stopping Aquatic Invasive Species The Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee passed a bill that I carried that aims to increase efforts to prevent the transportation and spread of aquatic invasive species. The legislation contains a variety of policy and technical changes related to aquatic invasive species and aquatic plant management. Invasive species pose a serious threat to our abundant natural resources and cost property owners and resource management agencies millions of dollars each year. In an effort to maintain our tradition of high standards, this legislation would increase and improve preventive measures related to the spread of aquatic invasive species. I believe this will potentially reduce future mitigation costs and continue to protect our lakes, rivers and streams. The bill includes increased authority for inspections and enforcement, increased penalties for violations, restricted use of equipment exposed to infested waters, and requirements for permits and decals. Coming Soon Starting at 3pm Monday, the Legislature will recess until Tuesday, April 26. When we return from the break, we will face two deadlines for passing policy bills: Friday, April 29 for Senate bills (house of origin) and Friday, May 6 for House bills (final committee passage). All legislation must be passed out of both houses by midnight on May 23 or will be held over until the 2012 session or any possible special session. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill =========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 303 State Office Building, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
For Immediate Release Contact: Becky Alery 651-296-0101 2011 LEGISLATIVE SESSION IN REVIEW Dear Friends, We recently adjourned the 2011 Legislative Session, and while our $34 billion balanced budget – the largest General Fund budget in Minnesota history – was recently vetoed by the governor, there are many legislative initiatives of note that I wish to share with you. As Chairman of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee, I had the opportunity to work with citizens, legislators, area leaders and state department officials on a wide range of issues concerning our environment and outdoors. My main interest was and will continue to be seeking changes that have a direct, practical benefit to the taxpayers and citizens of our great state. Our committee held public forums and listening sessions around the state, we worked on Veterans health and safety, flood mitigation, hunting and fishing practices and we invested our time and resources into numerous bills related to the health and welfare of our forests, lakes, rivers and streams. It would be difficult to offer a detailed description of every single piece of legislation or policy that we worked on. Instead, I wish to highlight a few initiatives that are of significant concern to the citizens of Minnesota. One of the main goals of this session was to find ways we can improve government to make it run better, cost less, and help others more. A significant achievement was our permitting reform legislation. I was proud to author this bi-partisan legislation that streamlines the regulatory process, cuts bureaucratic red-tape, and expedites project approvals for businesses and job providers. This project was first introduced in early January, after a joint committee hearing in Hibbing reaffirmed the need to move on this legislation right away. The bill simplifies the process for local government units as well as businesses, and continues to preserve and protect our environment. A major concern of businesses and individuals is the inconsistent permitting and regulation process. The time and cost required to obtain permits and get projects going is frustrating and hurts job creation. After meeting with hundreds of constituents, fellow legislators and the Governor, we knew this bi-partisan legislation was the correct way forward. In doing so, we can move government closer to the speed of commerce and put people back to work. The bill does the following: · Establishes a 150 day goal for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Department of Natural Resources to issue permits and a report on why, if that goal is not met. · Final decisions of an Environmental Impact Statement must be issued within 30 days (currently 90). · Eliminates District Court Review of Environmental Review Decisions. Appeals would go directly to the Court of Appeals. · Allows project proposer to prepare the draft Environmental Impact Statement. · Allows for electronic submittal of environmental review and permit documents. · Clarifies assessment charges Currently pending action by the governor is our environment policy bill. This bill, which passed both the House and Senate with overwhelming bi-partisan support, includes a number of environment policy provisions aimed toward improving department operations, preserving the health of our environment, and making it easier employers to do business. A few of the policies in the bill relate to the following: Biobutanol: an emerging industry for the state, which could lead to new investment and job growth in our rural economies. We seek to encourage companies to move to Minnesota and invest in this market, potentially providing well paying jobs in rural Minnesota. Wetland Conservation Act: this act streamlines the wetland replacement process, which allows businesses to grow while also preserving our environment. Expanded scope of recyclable materials: this measure will help companies move into the recycling business while promoting measures to limit waste. Increased threshold of petitioners to necessitate an EAW to be prepared. o The new requirement is 100 individuals who reside or own property in the county or an adjoining county of the affected area. o The current threshold is 25 individuals from anywhere in the world. Water use for the Lutsen resort: we reached a compromise with the DNR and Lutsen to lower the total amount of water withdrawal for the year and limit the permit to five years. Permit renewal for solid waste facilities expanded: by increasing renewal requirements to every 10 years instead of every five, local units of government will save money, as each application can cost up to $500,000. Clean Water Partnership: this measure provides more eligibility for grants to clean up Minnesota’s lakes and streams. A significant piece of the environment policy bill was the Aquatic Invasive Species prevention provisions. Aquatic invasive species are a threat to our natural resources across the state, and we must have a sense of urgency in dealing with this issue. Fishermen, boaters, members of both parties and the governor have all expressed a desire to change the pace in containing and fighting the spread of these species. With a new fishing season upon us, we will have a new program in place to continue to protect our lakes, rivers and streams. Provisions and modifications in the bill include: · Increased authority for inspections and enforcement · Broadened control requirements to all water-related equipment · Required notification upon identification of an invasive species in an area where that species has not been known to exist. · Ability for conservation officers or licensed peace officers to inspect watercraft stopped at a water access site or at a check station. · Increased penalties for violations · Required service provider permit · Restricted use of equipment exposed to infested waters · Expanded training requirements to service providers and bait harvesting workers · Required display of AIS rules decal on watercraft (decal provided free of charge) The bill includes specific exemptions for seasonal equipment such as docks and boatlifts and for emergency response vehicles. It simplifies requirements for commercial fishing equipment used on Lake Superior, streamlines the process for obtaining invasive aquatic plant management permits, and consolidates reporting requirements. The Senate Environment, Commerce & Energy budget bill is currently part of larger budget negotiations with the governor. In that bill, we appropriate $201.46 million in the areas of Environment and Natural Resources; Commerce and Consumer Protection; and Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications for the next biennium. This includes funding for the Department of Natural Resources enforcement, firefighting, efforts to investigate and combat Chronic Wasting Disease, and Red River flood damage grants and flood mitigation efforts. The legislation also includes $51.16 million of funding to the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, which the Legislative Citizen-Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) appropriates to approved projects. This budget bill represents an agreement by both the House and Senate to streamline government operations, reform services and improve the way government does business. No single group or entity received everything they wanted, but it does reflect the input and efforts of constituents, advocacy groups and department officials. We funded existing priorities and emerging issues without raising fees or taxes. We understand the need for additional budget negotiations, but we are hopeful the government will approve of our budget bill. The overall budget debate comes down to this. Is a 6% increase versus a 16% increase a compromise? Most agree that any increase in state budgets is more than Minnesotans are getting and doing this without a tax increase should be enough. Thank you for your support, your feedback, and your time these past few weeks and months. I hope you can share this message with family and friends as you begin to enjoy our summer here in Minnesota. Thank you,
=========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 303 State Office Building, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky ALERY 651-296-0101 Dear Friends: As you have probably heard, if there is not a budget resolution in the next 7 days, the state government will be shutdown. A state government shutdown would have devastating and far reaching consequences across our state. More than 30 thousand state employees as well several employees for small businesses and private contractors will be laid off. I have been working tirelessly with my colleagues to ensure a shutdown does not happen and will continue to do so until the budget is resolved. I have also vowed to not collect my legislative salary or per diem payments during a shutdown. The impact of this shutdown would be tough on many Minnesotan families and would trickle down to all Minnesotans. My refusal to accept my salary is just a small demonstration of my commitment to reaching a budget solution as soon as possible. I remain hopeful that an agreement with Governor Dayton can be reached and will work diligently in attempts to avoid a shutdown on July 1st We are doing our best to work with the governor while continuing to live within our means. Just like Minnesota businesses and households, we are committed to spending only what we have in our checkbook, which I do not think is an unreasonable stance. The budget that we presented this legislative session is the largest General Fund budget in Minnesota’s history and is a 6% increase over the 2010-11 biennium budget. The legislature has offered up numerous compromises including reducing tax cuts/reliefs and meeting the governor’s budget 100% on his K-12 Education budget and Judiciary & Public Safety budget (which together make up over 50% of the overall budget). Each and every compromise has been rejected while there have yet to be any compromises offered by Governor Dayton in return. Governor Dayton remains committed to forcing a shutdown holding Minnesotans hostage simply to demand a $1.8 billion tax hike. This tax increase amounts to a mindboggling 22% increase in government spending from the previous biennium. We hope that Governor Dayton soon realizes that the majority of Minnesotans want us to be responsible with our spending and stop saddling you and your children with more and more debt Candidate Dayton stated that he would not shut down our state government to account for a tax increase, and I hope as Governor he follows through on that statement. If he continues to stand in opposition to the already substantial increase in spending we have presented and demands we spend more money than we have, then he needs to own this shutdown. If you are one of the many Minnesota workers who will be affected by the potential shutdown, here is a link with resources. (http://www.leg.state.mn.us/lrl/issues/issues.aspx?issue=shutdown) Please remember that everything is uncertain at this time, but we are doing our best to have resources available for you. Thanks for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. I also urge you to call Governor Dayton’s office and encourage him to call a special session so we can get back to our jobs and prevent Minnesotans from losing theirs (www.callusbacktowork.com). Sincerely, Bill =========================================== State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen encourages and appreciates constituent input, and can be reached at 651-297-8063, by mail at 303 State Capitol Building, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155, or via email at sen.bill.ingebrigtsen@senate.mn Bill Ingebrigtsen
News from State Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen Serving The Counties of Todd, Douglas, Grant, and Stevens For Immediate Release Contact: Becky Alery 651-296-0101 Dear Friends, After working long hours last week and through the wee hours of the night over the weekend, Governor Dayton and the Republican majority came to an agreement that would solve the budget issue and end the 19-day government shutdown. Gov. Dayton gave up his calls for tax increases and returned to a June 30 GOP budget agreement, adding several conditions including a $500 million construction-bonding bill. The final budget, which was a tough sell for both sides, for the upcoming 2012-13 biennium is $34.3 billion which is only $0.3 billion over the legislature’s original proposed spending. We also had great success in turning off the autopilot features that increased state spending over the years as well as including multiple areas of reform. The final package does not raise taxes but does make targeted reductions in eight budget areas and slowing the exponential growth of state spending. Special Session was called for 3pm on Tuesday, July 19th and continued throughout the night. All bills passed through both chambers by 4am Wednesday morning and sent to Governor Dayton who signed them into law early July 20th. The longest shutdown in recent U.S. history is now over allowing state parks and rest stops to reopen, road construction to start back up, and putting 22,000 Minnesotans back to work. ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY & COMMERCE: $252.704 million As Chairman of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee, we are tasked with putting forth both the Environment Budget Bill as well as the Legacy Bill. I am proud to say that we were able to protect our pristine environment and priorities without any fees or tax increases. Critical issues such as aquatic invasive species and chronic waste disease received substantial increases in funding. It is vital to fight these emerging issues before we lose our Minnesotan lakes and wildlife. Reforms include changes that force state agencies to review water management to streamline and consolidate water programs as well as reform to the state tree nursery program taking them out of competition with the private sector. LEGACY: $449.842 million The Senate unanimously passed the Legacy bill which I had the privilege to be chief author. This legislation appropriates $450 million in FY 2012-13 for Parks and Trails, Outdoor Heritage, Arts, and Clean Water. The dedicated revenue that funds this bill is the result of the 2008 Constitutional amendment that the voters approved for the next 25 years. Some notable changes for rural Minnesota include an exclusive funding source for our rural Regional Parks and a constant appropriation for each county fair in our state. I believe funding projects in rural Minnesota is important and helps preserve our culture and heritage. TAXES: $2.9 billion Republicans were able to stand our ground and successfully balance the budget without raising taxes. Governor Mark Dayton started the session with a proposal to raise $4.1 billion in new taxes, which would have made Minnesota an outlier in economic competitiveness, job creation and business development. We do not have a revenue problem in this state, we have a spending problem, so it was important that we do not continue to place that burden on Minnesotans when it is not necessary. The tax bill agreed upon provides direct tax relief to homeowners, farms and small businesses. Includes sales tax exemption for townships and public safety water while also minimizing cuts to local government aid, and provides tax incentives for job creation. HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES: $11.3 billion The HHS bill significantly reforms the way public health care is carried out in Minnesota. It establishes a public health care system that is affordable and sustainable while limiting the growth of public health care. This bill also recognizes the ability of everyone, even low income Minnesotans, to make decisions about their own health care. The bill preserves funding for the elderly and the disabled, while reaching the target of $1.049 billion. There is an overall increase of $26 million in nursing home funding. The bill also provides flexibility to ensure effective, quality and accessible health care. Other significant reforms include the repeal of the provider tax while also working to prevent welfare fraud by strengthening welfare eligibility requirements and placing greater restrictions on the use of EBT cards. STATE GOVERNMENT: $818.9 million This session, the new majorities were sent to St. Paul to get spending under control and reform state government and we were successful in that mission through the State Government Budget bill. These reforms lay the foundation for long-term costs savings by looking at state government operates and delivers services and determining what changes are necessary. This includes a pay-for-performance pilot project, cost-saving reward programs, and consolidation of services. It also requires performance reviews of state employees and audits. The state will also work with the Federal Government for greater debt collection, and with private agencies for efficiency detection. We will also require contract business to verify citizenship through the E-verify service. HIGHER EDUCATION: $2.565 billion The Higher Education bill includes reforms that will require the U of M and MnSCU institutions to meet performance benchmarks before they can receive a portion of their funding. It increases funding for work-study and post-secondary childcare grants in attempts to avoid the student loan debt incurred throughout the years of college. The bill also includes strengthening of the need-based State Grant program, which means more choices in higher education for lower-income students. EDUCATION: $13.6 billion Due to the new funding being provided to education, my colleagues and I insisted on several reform measures in order to do more than just “business as usual.” This bill provides mandate relief sought by school district and school administrator associations. We repealed the contract settlement deadline and penalty, as well as the repeal of the safe schools levy maintenance of effort restriction. Integration Revenue will end after FY 2013 and new Literacy Incentive Aid and increased investment in the MN Reading Corps will require school districts to “earn” these funds through student reading test scores in early elementary. Early Graduation Scholarships will allow students who are academically capable and hard working to complete their high school education early and to take the funds that would have been spent on them for additional schooling to the college of their choice. JOBS/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: $170.3 million In this bill, reform is created (with the support of the Legislative Auditor) in the area of economic development area through the creation of three competitive grant programs rather than the bureaucratic process of pass-through grants and legislative earmarking. We worked to jump start small business expansion by creating a small business loan-guarantee program to help secure much needed capital. JUDICIARY/PUBLIC SAFETY: $1.807 billion During tough budget times, we have to make core services, like courts and public safety, a priority. In this bill, we accomplished reforms including the following: allowing judges to consider a person’s entire financial picture when deciding appropriate payment for these services as clients are able to pay; allowing counties to reimburse costs of medical services to local prisoners at the medical assistance rate rather than the negotiated provider rate; and prioritizing the use of state funds on state cases over federal cases. TRANSPORTATION: $4.74 billion This is a fiscally responsible bill focused on preserving current systems and putting the brakes on light rail expansion the state cannot afford to build or operate. This bill improves transit financing disclosure and public transparency. Through this provision, transit corridor development planners to provide the total cost of proposed transit systems, including both capital and long-term operating expenses. BONDING: $497 million Although a demand of the Governor to end the state shutdown, the Republican-written bonding bill met statewide and regional criteria, stressing long-term needs, not short-term wants, and was focused on flood relief, roads and infrastructure. No funding went toward conventions centers or stadiums, while most went toward asset preservation, roads and bridges, Reinvest in Minnesota, and flood hazard mitigation. Agriculture: $76.601 million This bill prioritizes funding to maintain the integrity and safety of the food supply in Minnesota. Also, there is no reduction in funding for retail food handling and meatpacking inspections. For detailed information on these bills: www.senate.mn/2011_first_special_session_bills/index.php I appreciate having the honor of serving you and all of District 11 and look forward to doing so next Session as well. Thank you for taking the time to read my update and please feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. Sincerely, Bill Ingebrigtsen
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