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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen (R)

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Legislative Update from Rep. Glenn Gruenhagen

Monday, March 13, 2017

Dear Friends,

This week the House took measures to address concerns regarding corruption on the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority board. This article details the issues that the legislature has been trying to address this session, if you are unfamiliar with the situation: http://www.startribune.com/auditor-u-s-bank-stadium-authority-violated-core-ethical-principles-with-free-tickets-for-friends-and-family/413031363/#

After reports of the misuse of two U.S. Bank Stadium suites by Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) board members, we passed legislation through the House last week aimed at increasing oversight and accountability. The bill reforms the governance structure of the MSFA’s, and limits the use of free Vikings Stadium suites in an effort to stop the unethical practices we have seen from reoccurring.

House File 778 passed with bipartisan support, and I am optimistic that it will be signed into law this year. We must hold public officials at all levels of government accountable, and this measure will accomplish that with the MSFA.

Today marks the first deadline for policy bills in the House, which has meant more frequent committee hearings to get bills an initial hearing, and keep them in the process for this session. Here is an interesting video published on House Public Information’s facebook page that describes the purpose behind these deadlines: https://www.facebook.com/pg/MNHouseInfo/videos/

As a final note, Minnesota students in grades K-12 are being encouraged to submit essays about how the Minnesota State Capitol has shaped our cultural history and the impact it will have on future generations. Contest winners in elementary school, middle school, and high school categories will be invited to share their essays at a program this summer during the Capitol’s restoration completion celebration. Winners will also receive a $1,000 college savings plan.

The deadlines for essay submissions are April 28. For more information on the contest, including essay subjects and rules, follow this link. I hope some of the talented students from our community will apply!

Sincerely,

 

Glenn