House GOP Caucus - Audio Commentary - Minnesota House of Representatives

ERICKSON

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:47:30 CST

Download and Listen EDUCATION REFORMS DESERVE AN "A" ----- State Representative Sondra Erickson, Chair of the House Education Reform Committee, spoke on the House floor this week, as members debated the Omnibus Education Finance Bill.

DRAZKOWSKI

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:44:57 CST

Download and Listen DRAZKOWSKI: REFORM, REFORM, REFORM --- Representtaive Steve Drazkowski says reform in the best way to describe the recently-completed budget bills, crafted in the 2011 special session.

DAVIDS

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:42:24 CST

Download and Listen DAVIDS RECAPS SPECIAL SESSION --- State Representtaive Greg Davids looks back at the budget bills signed into law following the 12-hour special legislative session held earlier this week.

ANDERSON

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:39:07 CST

Download and Listen BONDING, BUDGET PLANS HELP 13A ----- Representtaive Paul Anderson talks about a couple of specific local proposals that were included in the budget bills signed in to law this week by the Governor.

Zellers

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:40:45 CST

Download and Listen ZELLERS KEY IN SPECIAL SESSION SUCCESSES --- The 2011 special session has come to a successful close, thus ending the state government shutdown. Speaker of the House, Representative Kurt Zellers, says government reform and a common sense budget are the hallmarks of the session.

WESTROM

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:37:44 CST

Download and Listen 2011 GOOD FOR GREATER MINNESOTA - Representative Westrom talks about some of the improvement projects slated for NW Minnesota.

WESTROM

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:36:00 CST

Download and Listen WESTROM LAUDS END PRODUCT OF SEPCIAL SESSION --- Representative Torrey Westrom says Minnesotans will remember this 2011 special session for government reforms and a sensible budget.

VOGEL

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:33:10 CST

Download and Listen GOOD WORK IN SPECIAL SESSION - IT COULD HAVE BEEN DONE ON TIME THOUGH ---- State Representative Bruce Vogel says government reforms and a common sense budget are two of the high points of the 2011 special session. He is quick to add though, that the government shutdown could have been avoided if Governor Dayton had agreed to the same deal back on June 30th.

URDAHL

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:30:04 CST

Download and Listen Representative Dean Urdahl recaps the 2011 special sesison.

TORKELSON

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:28:50 CST

Download and Listen BUDGET DEAL - A MIX OF FISCAL COMMON SENSE AND REFORM --- State Representative Paul Torkelson says the special session resulted in common sense legislation for the people of Minnesota.

SWEDZINSKI

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:22:09 CST

Download and Listen 2001 BUDGET DEAL: GOOD, BUT NOT PERFECT --- State Representative Chris Swedzinski says he would have preferred to get the budget done by the May23rd adjournment deadline, but better late than never. In specific, Representative Swedzinski says he likes the reforms contained in the budget, and the fact that the general funding increase is about 6% - much more affordable than what Governor Dayton and legislative Democrats had proposed.

SHIMANSKI

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:10:10 CST

Download and Listen SPECIAL SESSION YIELDS SUCCESSES --- State Representative Ron Shimanski says "reform" and "fiscal responsibility" may best describe the 2011 special session.

SCHOMACKER

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:04:26 CST

Download and Listen SCHOMACKER RECAPS SPECIAL SESSION --- State Representative Joe Schomacker examines the recently-completed budget bills passed in the 2011 special legislative session.

Nornes

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:49:07 CST

Download and Listen NORNES; SHUTDOWN ENDS, BUDGET BALANCED --- State Representative Bud Nornes says he is happy the government shutdown has ended and the legislature has passed a balance budget. But he says, Governor Dayton and legislators must work to make sure a shutdown does not happen again.

MURRAY

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:45:06 CST

Download and Listen BALANCE, REFORM ARE HIGH POINTS OF SEPCIAL SESSION --- Moments after the close of the 2011 special session, State Representative Rich Murray took time to reflect on what happened. Representative Murray says he believes the governor and lawmakers should get their work done on time. But he adds, the special session yielded a number of meaningful government reforms, plus a budget that slows the growth of state government.

MURDOCK

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:40:48 CST

Download and Listen SPECIAL SESSION WAS A SUCCESS --- State Representative Mark Murdock says the 2011 special session was a success. Among the high points: limiting the growth in the general fund budget, and reforming areas of state government - most notably: Health and Human Services and K-12 Education.

MCNAMARA

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:36:33 CST

Download and Listen SPECIAL SESSION - GOOD RESULTS THAT COULD HAVE BEEN ACHIEVED EARLIER --- State Representative Denny McNamara says he is pleased at the budget bills and reforms that came out of the 12-hour special session held this week. But he says, Governor Dayton and lawmakers should make sure that in the future, they get their work done on time.

MCELFATRICK

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:32:17 CST

Download and Listen 3B GETS A-1 TREATMENT IN BUDGET --- District 3B State Representative Carolyn McElfatrick admits that the governor and lawmakers should have gotten their work done on time. But she adds, the special session resulted in good legislation for the Grand Rapids and Aitkin areas.

LEMIEUR

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:15:42 CST

Download and Listen SPECIAL SESSION: A SUCCESS, LET'S GET OUR WORK DONE ON TIME IN THE FUTURE --- State Representative Mike LeMieur says the 2011 special session yielded some good results in tems of keeping spending in check and government reform. But in the future, he says the governor and all legislators should work together to the the job done on time.

KIFFMEYER

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:12:00 CST

Download and Listen FINDING SUCCESS IN A SPECIAL SESSION --- While State Representative Mary Kiffmeyer believes the governor and legislature should have finished their work on time, she notes that the special session held this week was successful.

KIEL

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:06:37 CST

Download and Listen KIEL: SUCCESS IN THE SPECIAL SESSION ----- State Representtaive Deb Kiel believes lawmakers and the governor should have had their work done on time. That being said, she feels the special session produced some decent legislation, designed to move Minnesota forward.

GUNTHER

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:01:27 CST

Download and Listen GUNTHER: SUCCESS IN THE SPECIAL SESSION ----- State Representative Bob Gunther is the first to say that lawmakers and the governor should have gotten their work done on time. But he says, the special session did yield some good results in terms of the budget itself and the reforms inlcuded in the bills.

GOTTWALT

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:55:12 CST

Download and Listen SPECIAL SESSION A SUCCESS ----- Speaking on the House floor this week during, State Representative Steve Gottwalt says the special session yield some good legislation. Most notably, he says, is the reform inlcuded in the Omnibus Health and Human Services Finance Bill.

FABIAN

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:51:30 CST

Download and Listen FABIAN: SPECIAL SESSION A SUCCESS ----- State Representative Dan Fabian says while he is frustrated that lawmakers and the governor needed extra time to get their work done, the 2011 special session produced some good legislation.

ANDERSON

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:36:37 CST

Download and Listen ANDERSON: SHUTDOWN ENDS WITH BUDGET DEAL Representative Paul Anderson looks at the budget compromise that brought the 2011 special legislative session to a close.

Fabian - Dayton's Shutdown

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 12:05:16 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Dan Fabian today called on Governor Mark Dayton to call a special legislative session so the state can get back to normal. Fabian says a "lights on" bill would temporarily restore funding to state programs, thus bringing those laid-off state employees back to work. Then, lawmakers could pass six of the nine outstanding finance bills that they pretty much agree on with the Governor. Finally, they could work out details of the three omnibus bills that seem to be the most contentious: Taxes, State Government, and Health and Human Services.

SPEAKER ZELLERS: DAYTON'S DISASTER

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 11:19:48 CST

Download and Listen Speaker of the House, Representative Kurt Zellers, criticized Governor Mark Dayton for calling off budget talks Thursday night. The result was a government shutdown, which began at 12:01 Friday morning. Speaker Zellers says the House and Senate passed a balanced budget - which included a 6% increase in general fund spending. Dayton vetoed that, but was unable to develop a budget that won legislative support. Dayton insists on raising taxes in order to grow state government.

GOVERNOR WRONG TO KILL BUDGET TALKS

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 11:15:34 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Torrey Westrom says Governor Dayton should not have called off budget talks Thursday night - the move led to a state government shutdown. Westrom says the governor rejected the balanced budget passed this session by the House and Senate, and was unable to craft a budget that had much legislative support. Representative Westrom says a 6% increase in the general fund budget ought to be eough.

GOVERNOR MARK MISSES THE MARK

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 11:11:37 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Bruce Vogel criticizes Governor Mark Dayton for breaking off budget talks Thursday night, thus forcing a government shutdown.

SHUTDOWN

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 11:06:48 CST

Download and Listen State Representtaive Dean Urdahl takes issue with Governor Mark Dayton for breaking off budget talks and shutting down state government.

DAYTON DISAPPOINTS

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 11:05:09 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Paul Torkelson calls the government shutdown "unnecessary". Torkelson criticizes Governor Mark Dayton for breaking off budget talks Thursday night, and allowing for the government shutdown. Torkelson says the House and Senate passed a balanced budget on to the governor, and that a 6% increase in general fund spending should be enough.

DAYTON'S DISASTER

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 11:01:34 CST

Download and Listen State Representtaive Chris Swedzinski talks about Governor Dayton's decision to break off budget talks Thursday night, thus forcing a government shutdown.

DAYTON'S DISASTER

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:59:05 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Joe Schomacker talks about the government shutdown, brought about when Governor Dayton broke off budget talks late Thursday night.

NORNES: IT'S TIME FOR THE GOVERNOR TO LEAD

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:55:39 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Bud Nornes offered his thoughts on the government shutdown, which began when Governor Dayton refused to negotiate a budget deal.

DAYTON'S DISASTER

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:31:32 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Mark Murdock believes Governor Mark Dayton let all Minnesotans down by refusing to compromise on the state budget. The end result is a government shutdown which Dayton forced by insisting on raising taxes and growing government. Murdock and his GOP colleagues assembled on the House floor last night, wating for Dayton to call a special session to deal with the budget.

GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:28:20 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Carolyn McElfatrick expressed disappointment in Governor Mark Dayton over his decision to shut down state government rather than try to work out a budget deal. Dayton rejected the balanced budget passed by the House and Senate, yet he never garnered the support he sought for raising taxes and growing state government.

KIEL: DAYTON DISAPPOINTS

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:13:27 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Deb Kiel comments on Governor Dayton's decision to shut down state government.

GUNTHER: DAYTON'S DISASTER

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:10:26 CST

Download and Listen State Representtaive Bob Gunther offers his thoughts on Governor Dayton's decision to shut down state government Thursday night.

FABIAN: DAYTON DISAPPOINTS

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:08:31 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Dan Fabian crticized Governor Mark Dayton today for refusing to compromise on the state budget. Fabian said a 6% increase in general fund spending is enough; he wanted Dayton to call a special session so lawmakers could work toward a budget agreement, thus avoiding a government shutdown. Fabian said many transportation projects are now on hold, thanks to the shutdown and Dayton's unwillingness to compromise.

DAYTON'S DISASTER: GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:03:56 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Steve Drazkowski says Governor Mark Dayton turned his back on the state by forcing a government shutdown. Dayton rejected the balanced budget bill passed by the House and Senate, and then failed to craft a budget of his own. Late Thursday night, Dayton broke off budget talks, refusing to call a special session. Representative Drazkowski says a 6% increase in the general fund budget should be enough to pay for what the state truly needs.

DAYTON DISAPPOINTS DAVIDS

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 09:57:27 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Greg Davids had harsh words for Governor Mark Dayton over his decision to shut down state government. Davids, Chair of the House Taxes Committee, says Dayton rejected the common-sense balanced budget that cleared the House and Senate this session, and instead chose to raise taxes and grow government. Davids says Dayton could have called a special session on the budget, which would have averted the shutdown.

ANDERSON: DISAPPOINTED IN DAYTON

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 09:47:34 CST

Download and Listen Representative Paul Anderson says Governor Dayton made a mistake by forcing state government to shut down at 12:01 Friday morning. Representative Anderson says the House and Senate passed a balanced budget, which Dayton vetoed, in an effort to raises taxes and grow government.

ANDERSON: DAYTON'S SHUTDOWN NOT NEEDED

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 09:42:26 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Bruce Anderson criticized Governor Mark Dayton for refusing to call a special session in time to ward off a government shutdown.

ZELLERS SET TO NEGOTIATE - BUT DAYTON IS A NO-SHOW

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:45:45 CST

Download and Listen The 2011 legislative session came to a curious close last night, with Governor Dayton leaving the Capitol before a last-minute deal could be struck. Making Monday's session more odd was the fact that House Democrats seemed more anxious to filibuster for the TV cameras as opposed to working on a budget solution. Here's where we stood as session ended: Current general fund budget: $31 billion House/Senate Plan: $34 billion Governor Dayton proposal $37 billion To expand government that much, Governor Dayton relies on a $1.8 billion tax increase, which would hurt small business men and women all across the state.

DAYTON PACKS IT IN AT KEY BUDGET TIME

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:38:28 CST

Download and Listen The 2011 legislative session is history, as lawmakers wait to hear from the governor the fate of their balanced budget plan. Governor Dayton closed his office and went home with about 3 hours left in the session, dashing any hopes for an eleventh hour deal. The House and Senate have proposed a budget of $34 billion dollars. That compares to the $37 billion dollars the governor is demanding and $31 billion, which is the current budget.

VOGEL: WHERE'S DAYTON?

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:37:07 CST

DAYTON MISSING FROM LATE-NIGHT BUDGET TALKS

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:34:57 CST

Download and Listen The 2011 legislative sesion ended at midnight, with State Representative Paul Torkelson disappointed about the lack of a budget, and curious as to why the governor was absent from late-session budget negotiations. The numbers reak down like this: The current general fund budget is $31 billion. The House and Senate have okayed a 5.5% increase. Dayton has suggested a 15% icraee in general fund spending, to about $37 billion.

GOVERNOR LOOKS OVER BALANCED BUDGET

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:33:38 CST

Shimanski: APB on Governor Dayton

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:26:58 CST

Download and Listen The 2011 legislative sesion ended at midnight, with State Representative Ron Shimanski disappointed about the lack of a budget, and curious as to why the governor was absent from late-session budget negotiations. The numbers break down like this: The current general fund budget is $31 billion. The House and Senate have okayed a 5.5% increase. Dayton has suggested a 15% incraese in general fund spending, to about $37 billion.

DAYTON MISSING FRO LATE-SESSION BUDGET TALKS

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:25:39 CST

Download and Listen The 2011 legislative sesion ended at midnight, with State Representative Joe Schomacker disappointed about the lack of a budget, and curious as to why the governor was absent from late-session budget negotiations. The numbers break down like this: The current general fund budget is $31 billion. The House and Senate have okayed a 5.5% increase. Dayton has suggested a 15% increase in general fund spending, to about $37 billion.

NORNES: WHERE'S GOVERNOR DAYTON?

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:24:14 CST

Download and Listen The 2011 legislative sesion ended at midnight, with State Representative Bud Nornes disappointed about the lack of a budget, and curious as to why the governor was absent from late-session budget negotiations. The numbers break down like this: The current general fund budget is $31 billion. The House and Senate have okayed a 5.5% increase. Dayton has suggested a 15% increase in general fund spending, to about $37 billion.

DAYTON MISSING FROM BUDGET TALKS

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:19:52 CST

Download and Listen Governor Mark Dayton was a no-show as the clock ran out on the 2011 legislative session at midnight. All the omnibus finance bills - the pieces of a balanced budget - have been sent to the governor. Here are the numbers: We're spending 31 billion general fund dollars right now. The House and Senate have approved a 5.5% increase - to $34 billion dollars Dayton wants to inflate the budget to $37 billion to account for expanded government programs.

MURDOCK: WHAT HAPPENED TO THE GOVERNOR?

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:18:38 CST

McELFATRICK: SESSION ENDS ON A SOUR NOTE

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:12:50 CST

LEMIEUR: DAYTON ABSENT WHEN HE'S MOST NEEDED

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:10:16 CST

KIEL RECAPS 2011 SESSION

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:05:09 CST

Download and Listen The 2011 legislative sesion concluded late Monday night with no budget deal reached. In fact, Governor Dayton left the capitol a few hours before the deadline, killing any hope that a deal could be reached. The governor's proposed budget stands at $37 billion for the upcoming biennium; that's a 15% increase in general fund spending. The House and Senate have approved spending approximately 34 billion (5.5% more) over the same period.

GUNTHER: SESSION ENDS WITH DAYTON MISSING

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:04:07 CST

SESSION ENDS WITH NO BUDGET ACCORD

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:02:28 CST

Download and Listen The 2011 legislative sesion concluded late Monday night with no budget deal reached. In fact, Governor Dayton left the capitol a few hours before the deadline, killing any hope that a deal could be hammered out. The governor's proposed budget stands at $37 billion for the upcoming biennium; that's a 15% increase in general fund spending. The House and Senate have approved spending approximately 34 billionn (5.5% more) over the same period.

BARRETT RECPAS 2011 SESSION

Tue, 24 May 2011 10:55:40 CST

Download and Listen With the ink barely dry on the 2011 legislative session, State Representative Bob Barrett says he will not be happy until Governor Dayton accepts the Omnibus Finance bills. The session ended at midnight - the GOP House and Senate have sent their balanced budget on to the governor for action.

Cornish Looks For Budget Solution

Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 CST

Download and Listen Lawmakers opened the 2009 legislative session on Tuesday, and already, State Representative Tony Cornish is looking at ways to deal with the budget deficit, projected to be in the area of 5 billion dollars.

Jobs Bill

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:36:22 CST

Download and Listen MCNAMARA: JOB #1 IS JOBS!! On Thursday, the House voted 82-42 in support of HF1, authored by Representative Dan Fabian of District 1A.. The measure streamlines the permitting process and eliminates some of the bureaucratic red tape that business leaders face when considering re-locating to, or expanding their businesses in Minnesota. This was the first bill introduced in the House in 2011 by Majority Republicans, evidence that job creation is the GOP's top priority this session

Draz votes green

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:33:49 CST

Download and Listen On Thursday, the House voted 82-42 in support of HF1, authored by Representative Dan Fabian (District 1A). Representative Steve Drazkowski voiced his strong supoport for the bill as well. The measure streamlines the permitting process and eliminates some of the bureaucratic red tape that business leaders face when considering re-locating to, or expanding their businesses in Minnesota. This was the first bill introduced in the House in 2011 by Majority Republicans, evidence that job creation is the GOP's top priority this session

Update

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:31:46 CST

Download and Listen WESTROM SUPPORTS JOBS BILL. On Thursday, the House voted 82-42 in support of HF1, authored by Representative Dan Fabian of District 1A. Representative Westrom supported the initiative. The measure streamlines the permitting process and eliminates some of the bureaucratic red tape that business leaders face when considering re-locating to, or expanding their businesses in Minnesota. This was the first bill introduced in the House in 2011 by Majority Republicans, evidence that job creation is the GOP's top priority this session

Jobs

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:28:56 CST

Download and Listen TORKELSON: JOB #1 IS JOBS! In his weekly radio program, Representative Paul Torkelson talks about House File 1. On Thursday, the House voted 82-42 in support of HF1, authored by Representative Dan Fabian of Roseau. Representative Torkelson supported the legislation. The measure streamlines the permitting process and eliminates some of the bureaucratic red tape that business leaders face when considering re-locating to, or expanding their businesses in Minnesota. This was the first bill introduced in the House in 2011 by Majority Republicans, evidence that job creation is the GOP's top priority this session

Jobs bill

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:24:55 CST

Download and Listen On Thursday, the House voted 82-42 in support of HF1, authored by Representative Dan Fabian. The measure streamlines the permitting process and eliminates some of the bureaucratic red tape that business leaders face when considering re-locating to, or expanding their businesses in Minnesota. This was the first bill introduced in the House in 2011 by Majority Republicans, evidence that job creation is the GOP's top priority this session. Representative Kiffmeyer says she was proud to have voted for the bill.

Fabian Bill to Keep Jobs in Minnesota Passes House

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:22:36 CST

Download and Listen FABIAN BILL TO KEEP JOBS IN MINNESOTA EARNS BI-PARTISAN SUPPORT IN HOUSE On Thursday, the House voted 82-42 in support of HF1, authored by Representative Dan Fabian. The measure streamlines the permitting process and eliminates some of the bureaucratic red tape that business leaders face when considering re-locating to, or expanding their businesses in Minnesota. This was the first bill introduced in the House in 2011 by Majority Republicans, evidence that job creation is the GOP's top priority this session.

Garofalo Bill Passes House

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:14:00 CST

Download and Listen On Thursday, the House passed the Alternative Pathways Teacher License bill - authored by Representative Pat Garofalo. Representative Garofalo, Chair of the House Education Finance Committee, says the bill is among a series of education reform measures being considered at the Capitol.

veto

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:10:09 CST

Download and Listen Speaker of the House, Representative Kurt Zellers, says he is disappointed with Governor Mark Dayton's veto of the the legislature's first step in balancing the budget.

DAVIDS: VETO WAS A MISTAKE

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 09:04:26 CST

Download and Listen Representative Greg Dvaids, Chair of the House Taxes Committee, says Governor Mark Dayton made a masitake by vetoing the first phase of the legislature's budget balancing efforts. On Thursday, Dayton vetoed HF130 which called for making last session's unallotments permanent. Chairman Davids says the bill was a good first step in dealing with a 6.2 billion dollar budget shortfall.

rsadio interview

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:59:40 CST

Download and Listen Representative Murdock comments on Wednesday's state-of-the-state address, and on Wednesday's passage of HF130 - a major step as lawmakers begin to balance the budget.

state of the state

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:25:52 CST

Download and Listen Representative Mike LeMieur talks about Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday.

state of the state

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:24:27 CST

Download and Listen Representative Ron Shimanski offers his thoughts on Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday.

state of the state

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:18:56 CST

Download and Listen Representative Swedzinski gives us his reaction to Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday.

State of the state

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:13:18 CST

Download and Listen Representative Torrey Westrom offers his thoughts on Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday.

state state

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:12:14 CST

Download and Listen RepresentativeBud Nornes offers his thoughts on Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday.

state of the state

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:10:22 CST

Download and Listen Representative McElfatrick offers her thoughts on Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday.

state of the state

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:05:41 CST

Download and Listen Representative Kiel comments on the governor's state-of-the-state address, delivered Wednesday to a joint convention of the House and Senate.

state of the state

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:01:58 CST

Download and Listen Representative Bruce Vogel offers his thoughts on Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday.

state of the state reaction

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 10:48:03 CST

Download and Listen Representative Greg Davids offers his thoughts on Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday. Representative Davids chairs the House Taxes Committee.

STATE OF THE STATE REACTION

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 10:45:49 CST

Download and Listen Representative Paul Anderson offers his thoughts on Governor Dayton's state-of-the-state address, delivered on Wednesday.

RURAL AG CAUCUS

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 16:35:07 CST

Download and Listen House and Senate Republicans from greater Minnesota are joining forces to give agriculture a shot in the arm. Representative Paul Torkelson says ag members from both caucuses have established the "Rural Agriculture Caucus". The goal is to make sure agrilculture and rural development issues are addressed in the House and Senate.

PHOTO ID

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 16:32:28 CST

Download and Listen Representative Chris Swedzinski has co-authored the photo ID bill, introduced this week in the Minnesota House of Representatives. The bill simply requires a voter to provide a picture ID when at the polls. Representative Swedzinski says this bill will help safeguard the integrity of our election process. The bill has been referred to committee.

SCHOMACKER BRINGS FORWARD TWO BILLS

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 16:28:48 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Joe Schomacker announced today that he introduced two bills this week. The first has to do with the on-going Lewis and Clark project for SW Minnesota. The second bill pertains to fines collected by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Both bills have been referred to committee for study.

LEMIEUR: GREEN ACRES REPEAL IS ON THE WAY

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 17:29:42 CST

Download and Listen Next week, a bill authored by Representative Mike LeMieur, that would repeal the changes made recently to the Green Acres program, will get its first hearing in committee. A few years back, the legisllature approved changes to Green Acres, as part of the Omnibus Tax Bill. Those changes though, forced massive property tax increases on to the backs of farmers. Representative LeMieur says the time has come to repeal those harmful provisions, and return Green Acres to its pre-2008 status.

DAVIDS: KEEP LGA FUNDING AT 2010 LEVELS

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 17:25:47 CST

Download and Listen Representative Davids says the Phase I Budget Balancing bill that will come to the floor this week will keep Local Government Aid for 2011 at the same level it was in 2010. Representative Davids chairs the House Taxes Committee.

ANDERSON

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 17:23:29 CST

Download and Listen Representative Paul Anderson says members of the House Environment Committee had a very productive meeting today with DNR Commissioner-Designate, Tom Landwehr.

SHIMANSKI RECAPS BUSY WEEK

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 14:10:59 CST

Download and Listen Representative Ron Shimanski recaps several very busy days here at the Capitol.

BIG WEEK IN ST. PAUL

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 14:59:50 CST

Download and Listen Speaker of House, Representative Kurt Zellers, says lawmakers will tackle a couple of key issues this week at the Capitol.

Westrom Committee to Hear HF1

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:49:52 CST

Download and Listen Next week, the House Civil Law Committee will hear HF1, the first House file introduced this session. The bill, authored by Representative Dan Fabian of Roseau, calls for streamlining the permitting process for businesses and industries considering moving to or expanding in Minnesota. Many times the permitting process is prolonged by duplicative and unnecessary red tape. That can discourage businesses from setting up shop here. HF1 would eliminate some of the burdensome rules, and yet keep strict environmental standards in place. Representative Westrom chairs the House Civil Law Committee.

ANDERSON MEETS WITH CHINESE TRADE OFFICIALS

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:42:57 CST

Download and Listen This week, memebrs of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, including committee vice-chair, Representative Paul Anderson, met with a trade delegation from China. Representative Anderson says China appears interested in importing more of Minnesota's ag products - specifically, soy beans.

KIEL TALKS AG TO CHINESE DELEGATION

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:39:39 CST

Download and Listen This week, Representative Deb Kiel, and other members of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee met with a trade delegation from China. Chinese leaders seem interested in importing more of Minnesota's ag products; in specific, soy beans.

A BALANCED BUDGET

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:36:14 CST

Download and Listen Representative Steve Drazkowski comments on the GOP plan that begins to tackle the budget problem in Minnesota.

BALANCED BUDGET

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 11:39:36 CST

Download and Listen Representative Mark Murdock (10B) talks about the first steps in balancing the budget.

SCHOMACKER: LONG TERM CARE A TOP PRIORITY

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:49:00 CST

Download and Listen District 22A State Representative Joe Schomacker has been named to serve on a working group designed to address long term care issues in the state. A member of the Health and Human Services Committee, Representative Schomacker says nursing homes and other care facilities are vital to the future of communities all across greater Minnesota.

HAMILTON MEETS WITH CHINESE DELEGATION

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 16:47:31 CST

Download and Listen Representtaive Rod Hamilton, and other leading agriculture officials, met Wednesday with a trade delegation from China. Representative Hamilton, chair of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, says China is extremely interested is importing additional ag products from Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, China is the 2nd largest export market for U.S. ag products. In 2008, Minnesota's agricltural export to China was estimated at $682 million.

CHINA AG OFFICIALS HERE

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 14:28:42 CST

Download and Listen In his weekly radio interview, Representative Chris Swedzinski talks about a meeting today with Chinese soy bean officials. He also looks at an effort to balance the state's budget.

UPDATE

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:19:19 CST

Download and Listen Representtaive Ron Shimanski offers his Week 2 analysis of what is happening at the Capitol.

ROE V. WADE OBSERVANCE COMING UP

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:17:19 CST

Download and Listen District 12B Representative Mike LeMieur encourages pro-life supporters to bundle up and join him at the Capitol this Saturday for the annual "Pro Life Rally".

HOLBERG: PHASE 1

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:51:08 CST

Download and Listen House and Senate Republicans released details of their first plan to help balance the budget shortfall. At a Capitol press conference yesterday, House and Senate GOP leaders outlined their opening effort to balance the budget. Phase 1 calls for making permanent last year's temporary budget cuts. Such unallotments were approved by the DFL-controlled House and Senate and by Republican Governor Tim Pawlenty. Representative Holberg chairs the House Ways and Means committee.

WESTROM: PHASE 1 OF BALANCED BUDGET PLAN

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:47:34 CST

Download and Listen House and Senate Republicans released details of their first plan to help balance the budget shortfall. Phase 1 calls for making permanent last year's temporary budget cuts. Such unallotments were approved by the DFL-controlled House and Senate and by Republican Governor Tim Pawlenty.

ZELLERS: FAST PACE TO START OF SESSION

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:36:56 CST

Download and Listen In his weekly radio interview, Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representtaive, Kurt Zellers says lawmakers have wasted little time in addressig the challenges facing the state, The House already has introduced bills to reduce spending, to streamline government, and to create jobs in Minnesota.

DAVIDS: NO GENERAL FUND MONEY FOR VIKES' STADIUM

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:32:05 CST

Download and Listen Representative Greg Davids, the powerful chairman of the House Taxes Committee, warned today that any plan for financing a new stadium for the Minnesota Vikings had better not include general fund monies. Chairman Davids says there are other funding avenues for the team to consider, if the stadium issue is to be settled this legislatve session.

SHIMANSKI

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 17:32:33 CST

Download and Listen Representative Ron Shimanski takes time to share details of his committee assignments in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

VOGEL DETAILS COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 17:30:27 CST

Download and Listen Representative Bruce Vogel took time this week to talk about the House committees to which he has been assigned.

KIEL: BUSY TIMES AT THE CAPITOL

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 17:28:39 CST

Download and Listen State Representative Deb Kiel says the pace is picking up, although the 2011 kegislative session is less than two weeks old. She comments on the committees to which she has been assigned in the House.

DRAZKOWSKI: GOVERNMENT REFORM ON THE WAY

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 17:24:45 CST

Download and Listen Representative Drazkowski comments on some of the government reform measures that are being debated in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Murdock: Reform on the Fast Track

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 11:57:38 CST

Download and Listen Representative Mark Murdock comments on his committee assignments in the Minnesota House of Representatives. He also looks at a couple of reform measures now being debated at the Capitol.

Anderson Interview

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 18:08:42 CST

Download and Listen Representative Paul Anderson takes a few moments to share his thoughts on the 2011 legislative session, which began on January 4th.

Davids Introduces Several Proposals

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 18:07:13 CST

Download and Listen This week, Representative Greg Davids hit the ground running by introducing ten bills in the Minnesota House of Representatives. One measure would phase out the state's corporate income tax - which stands near 10%. Davids says that is one obstacle business owners face when considering Minnesota as a place to expand or re-locate their businesses. Another Davids bill calls for the reinstatement of tax reciprocity with Wisconsin. Representative Davids, Chair of the House Taxes Committee, says Houston County is hit the hardest by the absence of a tax reciprocity plan. Both bills have been referred to committee for study.

SWEDZINSKI TALKS GOALS, ASSIGNMENTS

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:07:35 CST

Download and Listen With one full legislative week under his belt, Representative Chris Swedzinski talks about his committee assignments, and about what he would like to accomplish this session.

FABIAN INTRODUCES PLAN TO BOLSTER JOB GROWTH

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 17:54:22 CST

Download and Listen At a press conference on Monday, State Representative Dan Fabian (1A) unveiled House File 1. As the bill's chief author, Representative Fabian says the goal is to streamline the permitting process for businesses and industries thinking about moving to or expanding in Minnesota. Representative Fabian believes that the excessive amount of red tape and ever-changing rules make it terribly difficult for business expansion and job growth in Minnesota. HF1 has been referred to committee.

BANAIAN CALLS FOR BETTER BUDGETING

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 17:46:33 CST

Download and Listen At a press conference on Monday, State Representative King Banaian outlined HF2, of which he is chief author. It's called "Priority Based Budgeting" and would call on state agency leaders and department heads to change the way they determine their budgets. Gone would be the automatic increases that have prevailed in past years. The new system would have agency and department decision-makers scrutinizing their various programs and then priortizing the services offered. The bill was referred to committee.

Drazkowski: Jobs Jobs Jobs

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:48:13 CST

Download and Listen Speaking shortly after he was sworn in on Tuesday, State Representative Steve Drazkowski called on his colleagues to work together to bring new private sector jobs to the state. Rep. Drazkowski says is number 1 job this session is JOBS.

NORNES: BALANCE THE BUDGET; CREATE NEW JOBS

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:45:18 CST

Download and Listen In an interview just moments after he took the oath of office on Tuesday, State Representative Bud Nornes called on his colleagues to work together to bring new private-sector jobs to the state. Chair of the Higher Education Committee in the Minnesota House of Representatives, Representative Nornes says his committee will play a major role in the state's long-term jobs picture.

SHIMANSKI: JOB GROWTH IS JOB 1 THIS SESSION

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:41:37 CST

Download and Listen Speaking moments after he was sworn in on Tuesday, Representative Ron Shimanski pledged to do what he can to bring more jobs to the state of Minnesota.

DAVIDS SWORN IN; JOB #1 THIS SESSION IS JOBS!!

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:36:31 CST

Download and Listen Representative Greg Davids, named chair of the House Taxes Committee, says the new session will bring new ideas for job creation in Minnesota. Representative Davids says the focus of this legislative session must be on job growth here in Minnesota.

FABIAN LOOKS TO DO A-1 JOB FORDISTRICT 1A

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:30:33 CST

Download and Listen Dan Fabian was among the 134 House members who, on Tuesday, took the oath of office. The ceremony marked the start of the 2011 legislative session. Representative Fabian says one of his top priorities this session will be private sector job creation.

REPRESENTTAIVE GOTTWALT TAKES OATH OF OFFICE

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:26:42 CST

Download and Listen On Tuesday, Minnesota's 134 House members and 67 Senators took the oath of office, marking the official start to the 2011 legislative session. For Representative Steve Gottwalt, his priorities this session include job creation, a balanced budget, and health care reform.

WESTROM SWORN IN AS STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:22:34 CST

Download and Listen Following Tuesday's swearing-in ceremony on the House floor, Representative Torrey Westrom said he's eager to tackle some of the tough challenges facing the state.

TORKELSON TAKES OATH

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:19:47 CST

Download and Listen On Tuesday, Representative Paul Torkelson was sworn in as State Representative from district 21B. He says his priamry focus this session will be on private sector job creation and a balance budget.

KIFFMEYER SWORN IN AT THE CAPITOL

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:12:34 CST

Download and Listen Representative Mary Kffmeyer comments on the start of the 2011 legislative session.

MURDOCK BEGINS SECOND TERM IN ST. PAUL

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:03:22 CST

Download and Listen Joined by his family and friends on Tuesday, Representative Mark Murdock took the oath of office, marking the start of his sophmore term at the Capitol. Representative Murdock says job #1 this session is jobs.

ZELLERS TAKES OATH AS HOUSE SPEAKER

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 10:42:44 CST

Download and Listen Representative Kurt Zellers was sworn in as Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives on Tuesday, the opening day of the 2011 legislative session. Immediately following the ceremony, Speaker Zellers addressed his colleagues in the House.

BARRETT SWORN IN AS NEW STATE REP.

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 10:31:18 CST

Download and Listen All 134 House members took the oath of office on Tuesday, with family members, friends, and the press looking on. Representative Barrett says his top priorities for the session include private sector job creation and balancing the state budget.

URDAHL: NO APPETITE FOR RAISING TAXES

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:13:53 CST

Download and Listen URDAHL: NO APPETITE FOR RAISING TAXES With the ink barely dry on it, the Omnibus Taxes Bill was vetoed Tuesday morning by Governor Tim Pawlenty. The bill was destined for the scrap heap; on Monday, the measure barely cleared the DFL-controlled House and Senate. All Republicans in both chambers fought against the bill because it would have raised taxes on the majority of small business owners in the state. In addition, the bill offered no government reforms, and it did not permanently cut spending. In short, the legislation did little to address the current budget shortfall of 450 million dollars, and it all but ignored the 5 to 6 billion dollar deficit projected for the coming biennium. Lawmakers have until Monday, May 17th to come up with a viable budget solution.

SHIMANSKI: DFL TAX BILL IS WRONG FOR MINNESOTA

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:13:14 CST

Download and Listen SHIMANSKI: DFL TAX BILL IS WRONG FOR MINNESOTA With the ink barely dry on it, the Omnibus Taxes Bill was vetoed Tuesday morning by Governor Tim Pawlenty. The bill was destined for the scrap heap; on Monday, the measure barely cleared the DFL-controlled House and Senate. All Republicans in both chambers fought against the bill because it would have raised taxes on the majority of small business owners in the state. In addition, the bill offered no government reforms, and it did not permanently cut spending. In short, the legislation did little to address the current budget shortfall of 450 million dollars, and it all but ignored the 5 to 6 billion dollar deficit projected for the coming biennium. Lawmakers have until Monday, May 17th to come up with a viable budget solution.

KIFFMEYER BLASTS DFL TAX BILL

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:11:27 CST

Download and Listen KIFFMEYER BLASTS DFL TAX BILL With the ink barely dry on it, the Omnibus Taxes Bill was vetoed Tuesday morning by Governor Tim Pawlenty. The bill was destined for the scrap heap; on Monday, the measure barely cleared the DFL-controlled House and Senate. All Republicans in both chambers fought against the bill because it would have raised taxes on the majority of small business owners in the state. In addition, the bill offered no government reforms, and it did not permanently cut spending. In short, the legislation did little to address the current budget shortfall of 450 million dollars, and it all but ignored the 5 to 6 billion dollar deficit projected for the coming biennium. Lawmakers have until Monday, May 17th to come up with a viable budget solution.

GAROFALO: TAX BILL IS BAD NEWS

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:10:41 CST

Download and Listen GAROFALO: TAX BILL IS BAD NEWS With the ink barely dry on it, the Omnibus Taxes Bill was vetoed Tuesday morning by Governor Tim Pawlenty. The bill was destined for the scrap heap; on Monday, the measure barely cleared the DFL-controlled House and Senate. All Republicans in both chambers fought against the bill because it would have raised taxes on the majority of small business owners in the state. In addition, the bill offered no government reforms, and it did not permanently cut spending. In short, the legislation did little to address the current budget shortfall of 450 million dollars, and it all but ignored the 5 to 6 billion dollar deficit projected for the coming biennium. Lawmakers have until Monday, May 17th to come up with a viable budget solution.

DETTMER DUMPS DFL TAX BILL

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:09:23 CST

Download and Listen DETTMER DUMPS DFL TAX BILL With the ink barely dry on it, the Omnibus Taxes Bill was vetoed Tuesday morning by Governor Tim Pawlenty. The bill was destined for the scrap heap; on Monday, the measure barely cleared the DFL-controlled House and Senate. All Republicans in both chambers fought against the bill because it would have raised taxes on the majority of small business owners in the state. In addition, the bill offered no government reforms, and it did not permanently cut spending. In short, the legislation did little to address the current budget shortfall of 450 million dollars, and it all but ignored the 5 to 6 billion dollar deficit projected for the coming biennium. Lawmakers have until Monday, May 17th to come up with a viable budget solution.

CORNISH: TAX BILL WOULD BE BAD FOR BUSINESS

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:08:50 CST

Download and Listen CORNISH: TAX BILL WOULD BE BAD FOR BUSINESS With the ink barely dry on it, the Omnibus Taxes Bill was vetoed Tuesday morning by Governor Tim Pawlenty. The bill was destined for the scrap heap; on Monday, the measure barely cleared the DFL-controlled House and Senate. All Republicans in both chambers fought against the bill because it would have raised taxes on the majority of small business owners in the state. In addition, the bill offered no government reforms, and it did not permanently cut spending. In short, the legislation did little to address the current budget shortfall of 450 million dollars, and it all but ignored the 5 to 6 billion dollar deficit projected for the coming biennium. Lawmakers have until Monday, May 17th to come up with a viable budget solution.

DEAN: STOP BUSINESSES FROM MOVING TO SOUTH DAKOTA

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:07:27 CST

Download and Listen DEAN: STOP BUSINESSES FROM MOVING TO SOUTH DAKOTA On Monday, DFL leaders in the House and Senate were dealt a significant setback when Governor Pawlenty vetoed the Omnibus Taxes Bill. The bill was on life-support even as it made the short trip from the House and Senate chambers to the governors office; on Monday, the Senate passed the bill 34-33 and the House approved it on a vote of 71-63. Opponents of the bill say raising taxes on small business is the wrong thing to do in an economic downturn. In addition, they said the bill offered no government reform or permanent spending cuts. Lawmakers must solve the 450 million dollars short-term budget deficit, between now and May 17th � the final day of the 2010 session.

TORKELSON: TAX BILL BAD FOR BUSINESS, JOBS

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:06:14 CST

Download and Listen TORKELSON: TAX BILL BAD FOR BUSINESS, JOBS With the ink barely dry on it, the Omnibus Taxes Bill was vetoed Tuesday morning by Governor Tim Pawlenty. The bill was destined for the scrap heap; on Monday, the measure barely cleared the DFL-controlled House and Senate. All Republicans in both chambers fought against the bill because it would have raised taxes on the majority of small business owners in the state. In addition, the bill offered no government reforms, and it did not permanently cut spending. In short, the legislation did little to address the current budget shortfall of 450 million dollars, and it all but ignored the 5 to 6 billion dollar deficit projected for the coming biennium. Lawmakers have until Monday, May 17th to come up with a viable budget solution.

NORNES OPPOSES DFL TAX BILL

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:05:23 CST

Download and Listen NORNES OPPOSES DFL TAX BILL On Monday, DFL leaders in the House and Senate were dealt a significant setback when Governor Pawlenty vetoed the Omnibus Taxes Bill. The bill was on life-support even as it made the short trip from the House and Senate chambers to the governors office; on Monday, the Senate passed the bill 34-33 and the House approved it on a vote of 71-63. Opponents of the bill say raising taxes on small business is the wrong thing to do in an economic downturn. In addition, they said the bill offered no government reform or permanent spending cuts. Lawmakers must solve the 450 million dollars short-term budget deficit, between now and May 17th � the final day of the 2010 session.

LOON: JOB GROWTH AT RISH WITH DFL TAX BILL

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:04:51 CST

Download and Listen LOON: JOB GROWTH AT RISH WITH DFL TAX BILL On Monday, DFL leaders in the House and Senate were dealt a significant setback when Governor Pawlenty vetoed the Omnibus Taxes Bill. The bill was on life-support even as it made the short trip from the House and Senate chambers to the governors office; on Monday, the Senate passed the bill 34-33 and the House approved it on a vote of 71-63. Opponents of the bill say raising taxes on small business is the wrong thing to do in an economic downturn. In addition, they said the bill offered no government reform or permanent spending cuts. Lawmakers must solve the 450 million dollars short-term budget deficit, between now and May 17th � the final day of the 2010 session.

HOPPE: DFL TAX BILL WOULD HANDCUFF JOB GROWTH

Tue, 11 May 2010 13:03:53 CST

Download and Listen HOPPE: DFL TAX BILL WOULD HANDCUFF JOB GROWTH On Monday, DFL leaders in the House and Senate were dealt a significant setback when Governor Pawlenty vetoed the Omnibus Taxes Bill. The bill was on life-support even as it made the short trip from the House and Senate chambers to the governors office; on Monday, the Senate passed the bill 34-33 and the House approved it on a vote of 71-63. Opponents of the bill say raising taxes on small business is the wrong thing to do in an economic downturn. In addition, they said the bill offered no government reform or permanent spending cuts. Lawmakers must solve the 450 million dollars short-term budget deficit, between now and May 17th � the final day of the 2010 session.

ZELLERS: DFL - "DEMOCRATS FAIL TO LEAD"

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:59:03 CST

Download and Listen ZELLERS: DFL - "DEMOCRATS FAIL TO LEAD" On Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes bill, which calls for a tax increase that could cost the state countless jobs in the future, No Republicans in either chamber supported the bill, because it does not adequately address the budget problem, nor does it offer real government reform that is desperately needed in these tough economic times. In addition, opponents fear the increase in income taxes would adversely affect small businesses. The vote in the Senate was 34-33 in favor of the bill; the House tally was 71-63, with 16 Democrats breaking ranks with their party leaders. Tuesday morning, Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill; with time running out on the 2010 legislative session, lawmakers must find a way to agree on a budget balancing plan.

MCNAMARA: LET'S NOT KILL JOBS IN MINNESOTA

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:55:44 CST

Download and Listen MCNAMARA: LET'S NOT KILL JOBS IN MINNESOTA On Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes bill, which calls for a tax increase that could cost the state countless jobs in the future, No Republicans in either chamber supported the bill, because it does not adequately address the budget problem, nor does it offer real government reform that is desperately needed in these tough economic times. In addition, opponents fear the increase in income taxes would adversely affect small businesses. The vote in the Senate was 34-33 in favor of the bill; the House tally was 71-63, with 16 Democrats breaking ranks with their party leaders. Tuesday morning, Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill; with time running out on the 2010 legislative session, lawmakers must find a way to agree on a budget balancing plan.

LANNING: DFL TAX BILL MISSES THE TARGET

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:54:44 CST

Download and Listen LANNING: DFL TAX BILL MISSES THE TARGET On Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes bill, which calls for a tax increase that could cost the state countless jobs in the future, No Republicans in either chamber supported the bill, because it does not adequately address the budget problem, nor does it offer real government reform that is desperately needed in these tough economic times. In addition, opponents fear the increase in income taxes would adversely affect small businesses. The vote in the Senate was 34-33 in favor of the bill; the House tally was 71-63, with 16 Democrats breaking ranks with their party leaders. Tuesday morning, Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill; with time running out on the 2010 legislative session, lawmakers must find a way to agree on a budget balancing plan.

GOTTWALT: DFL LEADERS FAIL TO LEAD

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:53:16 CST

Download and Listen GOTTWALT: DFL LEADERS FAIL TO LEAD On Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes bill, which calls for a tax increase that could cost the state countless jobs in the future, No Republicans in either chamber supported the bill, because it does not adequately address the budget problem, nor does it offer real government reform that is desperately needed in these tough economic times. In addition, opponents fear the increase in income taxes would adversely affect small businesses. The vote in the Senate was 34-33 in favor of the bill; the House tally was 71-63, with 16 Democrats breaking ranks with their party leaders. Tuesday morning, Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill; with time running out on the 2010 legislative session, lawmakers must find a way to agree on a budget balancing plan.

DRAZKOWSKI: RAISING TAXES WOULD COST JOBS

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:51:40 CST

Download and Listen DRAZKOWSKI: RAISING TAXES WOULD COST JOBS On Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes bill, which calls for a tax increase that could cost the state countless jobs in the future, No Republicans in either chamber supported the bill, because it does not adequately address the budget problem, nor does it offer real government reform that is desperately needed in these tough economic times. In addition, opponents fear the increase in income taxes would adversely affect small businesses. The vote in the Senate was 34-33 in favor of the bill; the House tally was 71-63, with 16 Democrats breaking ranks with their party leaders. Tuesday morning, Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill; with time running out on the 2010 legislative session, lawmakers must find a way to agree on a budget balancing plan.

BUESGENS: DFL TAX BILL A NON-STARTER

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:50:30 CST

Download and Listen BUESGENS: DFL TAX BILL A NON-STARTER On Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes bill, which calls for a tax increase that could cost the state countless jobs in the future, No Republicans in either chamber supported the bill, because it does not adequately address the budget problem, nor does it offer real government reform that is desperately needed in these tough economic times. In addition, opponents fear the increase in income taxes would adversely affect small businesses. The vote in the Senate was 34-33 in favor of the bill; the House tally was 71-63, with 16 Democrats breaking ranks with their party leaders. Tuesday morning, Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill; with time running out on the 2010 legislative session, lawmakers must find a way to agree on a budget balancing plan.

TORREY TALKS TAXES; DFL BILL BAD FOR BUSINESS

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:48:07 CST

Download and Listen TORREY TALKS TAXES; DFL BILL BAD FOR BUSINESS After several hours of debate on Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes Bill. But while those who support raising taxes as the primary method to deal with the states budget problems prevailed, their victory was short-lived. Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill, which passed the Senate on a 34-33 vote and the House on a margin of 71-63. In both chambers, Republicans led the fight against the �tax and spend� scheme; no GOP member supported the bill, and in fact, a number of Democrats broke ranks with their party leaders and sided with Republicans. Republicans opposed the bill because it does nothing to solve the budget shortfall, and offers no serious spending cuts or government reform. In addition, the proposed income tax increase would have a devastating effect on businesses across the state. The 2010 legislative session must conclude by May 17th; lawmakers have until then to come up with a plan that will solve the budget shortfall.

MURDOCK: TAX BILL IS BAD FOR BUSINESS

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:44:08 CST

Download and Listen MURDOCK: TAX BILL IS BAD FOR BUSINESS After several hours of debate on Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes Bill. But while those who support raising taxes as the primary method to deal with the states budget problems prevailed, their victory was short-lived. Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill, which passed the Senate on a 34-33 vote and the House on a margin of 71-63. In both chambers, Republicans led the fight against the �tax and spend� scheme; no GOP member supported the bill, and in fact, a number of Democrats broke ranks with their party leaders and sided with Republicans. Republicans opposed the bill because it does nothing to solve the budget shortfall, and offers no serious spending cuts or government reform. In addition, the proposed income tax increase would have a devastating effect on businesses across the state. The 2010 legislative session must conclude by May 17th; lawmakers have until then to come up with a plan that will solve the budget shortfall.

DEMOCRATS TRY AGAIN TO RAISE TAXES

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:39:15 CST

Download and Listen RAISING TAXES: BI-PARTISAN OPPOSITION AND PAWLENTY VETO After several hours of debate on Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes Bill. But while those who support raising taxes as the primary method to deal with the states budget problems prevailed, their victory was short-lived. Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill, which passed the Senate on a 34-33 vote and the House on a margin of 71-63. In both chambers, Republicans led the fight against the �tax and spend� scheme; no GOP member supported the bill, and in fact, a number of Democrats broke ranks with their party leaders and sided with Republicans. Republicans opposed the bill because it does nothing to solve the budget shortfall, and offers no serious spending cuts or government reform. In addition, the proposed income tax increase would have a devastating effect on businesses across the state. The 2010 legislative session must conclude by May 17th; lawmakers have until then to come up with a plan that will solve the budget shortfall.

DOWNEY: DFL TAX BILL IS A JOB-KILLER

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:37:47 CST

DAVIDS FIGHTS AGAINST RAISING TAXES

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:35:14 CST

TAX INCREASE DEFEATED BY PAWLENTY, GOP

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:33:49 CST

Download and Listen RAISING TAXES: BI-PARTISAN OPPOSITION AND PAWLENTY VETO After several hours of debate on Monday, the House and Senate narrowly approved the Omnibus Taxes Bill. But while those who support raising taxes as the primary method to deal with the states budget problems prevailed, their victory be was short-lived. Governor Pawlenty vetoed the bill, which passed the Senate on a 34-33 vote and the House on a margin of 71-63. In both chambers, Republicans led the fight against the �tax and spend� scheme; no GOP member supported the bill, and in fact, a number of Democrats broke ranks with their party leaders and sided with Republicans. Republicans opposed the bill because it does nothing to solve the budget shortfall, and offers no serious spending cuts or government reform. In addition, the proposed income tax increase would have a devastating effect on businesses across the state. The 2010 legislative session must conclude by May 17th; lawmakers have until then to come up with a plan that will solve the budget shortfall.

race to the top

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 18:35:23 CST

Download and Listen MURK AND MINDY K-12 Finance Division Chair, Representative Mindy Greiling, is coming under fire for allowing a high-priced lobbyist to sit with lawmakers at a recent committee hearing. Education Minnesota President, Tom Dooher, sat side-by-side with committee members during Tuesdays hearing, much to the surprise of legislators, the press, and other lobbyists. They were left wondering if Education Minnesotas robust financial support of the DFL earned Dooher a seat among legislators. House and Senate Education Committee members met Tuesday to learn more about the federal education initiative, �Race To The Top�, which could bring some $175 million to education efforts in the state of Minnesota. Education Minnesota has yet to embrace the reform measures included in the �Race To The Top� program. During committee meetings, lobbyists are banned from sitting with legislators at the committee table; they can view the meeting from the audience, and if called upon to comment or question a bill, those lobbyists can approach a separate testifiers table. On the House floor on Wednesday, the House voted for a rule change that would prohibit lobbyists and executive branch staffers from sitting at the committee table. Representative Jenifer Loon said the concern is that by sitting with legislators, a lobbyist could have undue influence over a lawmaker.

race to the top

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 18:31:31 CST

Download and Listen BIG DFL DONOR GETS SPECIAL TREATMENT On Tuesday, DFL leaders of the House and Senate Education Committees allowed the president of Education Minnesota to sit at the committee table during a hearing on the federal �Race To The Top� initiative. At stake is $175 million in federal funds. In what many Capitol observers say was a first � and a clear violation of protocol, DFLers let a registered lobbyist sit side-by-side with them at the committee table as legislators debated the merits of the program. In the past, lobbyists sat in the audience during the committee meeting, and were allowed to sit at the testifiers table when offering input on a bill. In defiance to committee decorum and past practice, Tom Dooher, president of the state teachers union, sat next to House and Senate committee members, while other lobbyists appropriately listened to the testimony from the audience. In fact, the table and room were so crowded that one committee member, Representative Bud Nornes (R-Fergus Falls) was forced to watch the proceedings on TV in his office. On Wednesday, House Republicans cried foul, wondering if the unions overwhelming financial support of the DFL was the reason Dooher was allowed to sit at the committee table. Representative Tim Kelly spoke out Wednesday on the House floor against this perceived breach or professionalism. The concern is that by sitting with legislators, a lobbyist could have undue influence over a lawmaker.