<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?>


<rss version="2.0">
<channel>
<title>Session Daily - Minnesota House of Representatives</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sdaily.asp</link>
<description>Session Daily</description>
<language>en-us</language>
<copyright>Copywrite</copyright>
    <lastBuildDate>Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</lastBuildDate>
    <ttl>20</ttl>
<item>
<title>Division begins drafting clean water bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2125</link>
<description>A House division has begun assembling a list of bills that could comprise projects funded from the Clean Water Fund.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty line-item vetoes bonding bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2122</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty used his line-item authority, before signing a $680 million bonding bill into law.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cable companies may face new competition</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2123</link>
<description>Cable providers in some parts of the state could get some 
new competition, if a bill approved by a House division becomes law.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House passes amended LCCMR recommendations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2124</link>
<description>After more than three hours of debate, the House passed the annual project funding recommendations from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>With bonding passed, House leaders move on to GAMC legislation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2118</link>
<description>House leaders say theyre three weeks ahead of schedule and one-third of the way done with major legislation with the passage of the bonding bill.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House minority leader warns of education or health services cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2119</link>
<description>House minority leader says unallotment reversal could result in education or health services cuts.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Moving forth with health reforms</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2120</link>
<description>The chairman of the House Health Care and Human Services Finance Division is proposing Minnesota move forward with a series of major health care reforms, no matter the outcome of pending federal legislation.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget bill would cut $207 million in state spending</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2121</link>
<description>Nearly $207 million would be cut from a variety of state 
agencies and programs under a supplemental budget bill approved by a House 
committee.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill going to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2113</link>
<description>The latest nearly billion-dollar bonding bill is heading to the governor's desk after passage by the House and Senate.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Election administration changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2114</link>
<description>Myriad elections administration technical changes are passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Compromise preserves GAMC to June</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2115</link>
<description>Compromise viewed by supporters as better than no solution at all.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cuts to PILT, flood mitigation boards</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2116</link>
<description>The House Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division goes $3 million more in cuts than the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Higher education bill proposes $48.2 million in cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2117</link>
<description>State funding for higher education would be cut $48.2 million — but student financial aid would be largely spared — under the 
provisions of a budget bill approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Domestic partner probate rights</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2109</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would provide equal access to personal asset distribution in relation to the uniform probate code.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gun show background check bill defeated</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2110</link>
<description>A bill to prohibit the sale of a firearm at a gun show without conducting a background check on the buyer was defeated by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Foreign IDs for drivers license clears road bump</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2111</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill that would allow someone to submit an identification card from another country as one of two forms required to obtain a driver's license.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Division approves agriculture funding cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2112</link>
<description>The House Agriculture, Rural Economies and Veterans Affairs Finance Division approved $6.9 million in supplemental biennial 
budget reductions.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sex ed bill goes to House floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2101</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would require school districts to offer a responsible family life and sexuality education program.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Environment budget target announced</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2102</link>
<description>The House Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division will need to reduce General Fund expenditures for entities it oversees by $16.3 million in the 2010-2011 biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Resolving conflicts in mobile home parks</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2103</link>
<description>Residents of manufactured home parks would have a 
potentially faster, less expensive way to resolve disputes under a bill held over for possible inclusion in an omnibus bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Economic response team would help retain businesses</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2104</link>
<description>Persuading businesses to stay in Minnesota is the goal of a bill that would establish a state-level “fast-action economic response team.”</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Vets cemetery needed, but funds lacking for land acquisition</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2105</link>
<description>Report confirms need in southeastern part of the state for new veterans cemetery; however land costs are prohibitive.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill expanding after-death care goes to House floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2106</link>
<description>Families would have more options in providing home-based, after-death care to loved ones under a bill headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Manufacturers equipment loan program moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2107</link>
<description>Manufacturers could get low-interest loans from the state to help pay for new equipment, under a bill approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Latest bonding bill to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2108</link>
<description>The latest nearly billion-dollar bonding bill should be on the House floor Thursday.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Basement brewing passed by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2098</link>
<description>Beverage producers would be able to make their products in basements, under a bill approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Trying omnibus transportation policy bill again</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2099</link>
<description>The House Finance Committee approved an updated omnibus transportation policy bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No county workweek reduction</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2100</link>
<description>A House division voted down a bill to allow Mower County offices to have a four-day workweek.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gun show loophole fix heard</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2091</link>
<description>A house division held over a bill that would require background checks before a person could by a firearm at a gun show.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minority leader offers thoughts on GAMC, bonding bills</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2092</link>
<description>A GAMC compromise is close and could reach the House floor next week, said House Minority Leader Kurt Zellers.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Speaker says budget targets to be released next week</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2093</link>
<description>DFL leaders plan to release budget targets next Monday or Tuesday, with reductions released in batches starting later in the week.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Letting renters choose their own phone company</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2094</link>
<description>Renters would be guaranteed the right to purchase telephone or cable services from a provider of their own choosing, under a bill that won division approval.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New payday lending restrictions approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2095</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill that would close a loophole allowing some payday lenders to bypass laws meant to protect consumers.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Protecting paws and claws</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2096</link>
<description>A person that causes bodily harm or renders a service animal unable to perform their duty could be charged with a gross misdemeanor.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Audit details DNR land acquisition shortcomings</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2097</link>
<description>A report outlines shortcomings of how the Department of Natural Resources manages 5.6 million acres.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>American Legion Day gets House approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2084</link>
<description>On its way to the governor is a bill that would designate Sept. 16 as American Legion Day.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Environment division looks at funding options</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2085</link>
<description>Charged with reducing a comingled budget of General Fund dollars, fines, user fees and permits, a House environment division began to 
study its options.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House passes new education rules for realtors</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2086</link>
<description>The House voted 100-32 to approve new continuing education requirements for realtors.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee deadlines approved by House committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2087</link>
<description>The House Rules and Administration Committee approved a resolution setting committee deadlines for the 2010 session.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Firefighter response time requirement passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2088</link>
<description>The City of Richfield could soon require its new firefighters to live within a 10-minute response time.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Probationary police period uniformity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2089</link>
<description>Going to the governor is a bill that would allow New Hope and East Grand Forks to double their probationary periods for peace officers from six to 12 months.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Working group presents bonding offer</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2090</link>
<description>A second capital investment bill could be on the House and Senate floors within a week; and maybe this one will make it to the governor's 
desk.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Including pets in protection orders</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2080</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would include pets in a protective order relating to domestic abuse.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>CARZ proposal turns to cuts vs. credit debate</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2081</link>
<description>Incentives are laid out to help keep St. Paul Ford plant viable, but tax committee members question funding.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ensuring parental notification of child abuse</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2082</link>
<description>A bill to report a maltreatment investigation or assessment of an allegation to a parent or legal guardian of a student within 10 
days was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Joint meeting focuses on distracted driving</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2083</link>
<description>During a joint meeting of House and Senate transportation policy divisions, legislators heard testimony about the need for expanded laws regarding distracted drivers.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Phy. Ed. standards get committee approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2075</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill requiring the state to adopt academic standards for physical education.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget deficit drops to under $1 billion</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2076</link>
<description>Minnesotas projected state budget deficit has shrunk to $994 million for the current biennium — but not because the economy is getting 
better.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislative leaders, governor react to February forecast</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2077</link>
<description>DFL and Republican legislative leaders offered conflicting 
interpretations of the February budget forecast — and conflicting ideas on how 
to solve the states projected budget deficit.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Other state DWI convictions count here</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2078</link>
<description>Someone that gets their first DWI in Minnesota could have a similar infraction in another state count against them here.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill would ban live check scams</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2079</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would ban “live check” scams, in which consumers are mailed checks that obligate them to 
purchase goods or services when cashed.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Looking for fund transparency</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2071</link>
<description>Bill would change the deposit of some fees that now go to the General Fund to an account in the special revenue fund.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Haitian relief tax break passed by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2072</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would allow people who donated to the Haitian relief effort to claim the contribution on 
their 2009 tax return.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House fails to override GAMC veto</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2073</link>
<description>House Democrats unsuccessfully attempted to override the governors veto of controversial health care legislation before tabling the 
subject.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee approves Veterans of Foreign Wars Day</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2074</link>
<description>A Veterans of Foreign Wars Day would be established in Minnesota, under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minority will uphold GAMC veto, leader says</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2068</link>
<description>Despite Senate override vote, work will continue over the weekend on possible GAMC compromise.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>GAMC override vote possible Monday</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2069</link>
<description>The House may vote Monday on whether to override Gov. Tim Pawlentys veto of General Assistance Medical Care funding.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Majority vote still not necessary to win</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2062</link>
<description>A House committee defeated a bill that could have required elected officials to win by a majority of general election votes.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Primary date change passed by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2063</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would move the state's primary election to August.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Alternative teacher licensure bills get committee OK</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2064</link>
<description>Two bills that would create alternative licensure for nontraditional teachers were approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>U of M president: make higher education a priority</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2065</link>
<description>University of Minnesota President Bob Bruininks told lawmakers they should prioritize higher education funding as they look to 
balance the state budget.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Busing costs could be billed to nonpublic and charter schools</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2066</link>
<description>School districts may get the authorization to bill nonpublic schools and charter schools for any unreimbursed pupil transportation costs.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Syringe product stewardship program adopted by House committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2067</link>
<description>Used syringes are one step closer to being kept of the waste stream, where they can infect or poke hospitality and waste management 
workers.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Making a happier home for tenants, landlords</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2057</link>
<description>Most landlord and tenant relationships are good, but help 
could be on the way in cases where they arent.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Opening bioscience grants to clean energy projects</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2058</link>
<description>A grant program that pays for roads and pipelines to support bioscience businesses could be expanded to include clean energy projects.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Airport expansion plan met with Twine Ball International alternative</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2059</link>
<description>A House division heard about potential upgrades at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, and was urged to look outside the metro area.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Computer-adaptive testing proposal goes forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2060</link>
<description>Statewide computer-adaptive achievement tests could be administered to students beginning next school year.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Asset exemptions sought for MFIP and general assistance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2061</link>
<description>Jobless Minnesotans without unemployment benefits could get some help from a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Picking a temporary legislative successor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2050</link>
<description>Legislators who serve in the military could choose a temporary successor to fill their seat while called to active duty, under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Report pinpoints policies behind taxes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2051</link>
<description>Biennial study provides insight, background and fiscal impact of state taxes.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill not going to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2052</link>
<description>House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher announced the bonding bill is not going to Gov. Tim Pawlenty.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Workforce programs brace for cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2053</link>
<description>The states workforce development programs could be facing nearly across-the-board cuts, members of a House division learned.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Education application clarification</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2054</link>
<description>Lawmakers want the state's federal Race to the Top application reflects state law, not federal criteria.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Safety rules for inflatable indoor parks</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2055</link>
<description>A bill that would establish safety regulations for indoor amusement parks with inflatable play equipment won approval from a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Letting minors buy car insurance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2056</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would allow minors who legally own automobiles to also purchase insurance for them.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill spreadsheet gets conferee approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2042</link>
<description>A conference committee approved the spreadsheet for HF2700*/SF2360 at about 1 a.m. Monday.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conference committee finalizes bonding bill, veto likely</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2044</link>
<description>The capital investment bill is going to the House and Senate floors.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Trades licensing bill headed to governors desk</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2045</link>
<description>A bill that adds training and licensure requirements for 
school boiler operators, water conditioner installers and medical gas system 
installers is headed to the governors desk.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Getting soldiers their extra pay</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2046</link>
<description>House approval was given to a resolution urging federal authorities to pay soldiers money they were promised.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Interim rates stripped from public utilities bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2047</link>
<description>A bill that would have changed how the PUC grants interim rate increases now simply requires stricter reporting policies for the utility 
employees travel and entertainment expenses.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deer, coyote provisions held over by House division</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2048</link>
<description>Counties may be authorized to pay bounty hunters for killing coyotes, and drivers who kill a deer with their vehicle may get the 
option of keeping the carcass.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Capital investment bill gets legislative approval; veto expected</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2049</link>
<description>A capital investment bill approved by the House and Senate is very likely to meet the governor's veto pen.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Using cell phone data to find missing persons</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2037</link>
<description>Cell phone providers may soon be required to divulge information on the locations of their users in emergency situations.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Electronic monitoring for domestic abusers gets division OK</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2038</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that could help monitor the whereabouts of domestic abusers.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More bonding, GAMC action expected on floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2039</link>
<description>House DFL leaders said they expect a Monday vote on the bonding bill, legislation Republicans are calling too big and too expensive.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Homeowner-lender mediation bill resurrected</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2040</link>
<description>A bill vetoed last year by Gov. Tim Pawlenty that would 
seek to prevent foreclosures through mediation has been resurrected, with some 
changes.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Expanding ex parte protection area</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2041</link>
<description>An ex parte order for protection which provides a certain level of immediate protection for a domestic abuse victim, could get more specific in protecting an injured party.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping the lieutenant governor position</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2034</link>
<description>A bill  to abolish the position of lieutenant governor was defeated in a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>GAMC extension bill gets House, Senate approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2035</link>
<description>Heading to the governor's office is a scaled-back version of a bill to extend General Assistance Medical Care.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Financial aid cuts likely for college students</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2036</link>
<description>College students will likely have to get by with less financial aid from the state when they begin their fall semester.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>DEED programs need some work, auditor says</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2027</link>
<description>State workforce programs help Minnesotans find jobs, but are plagued by problems with accountability and coordination, members of a House division learned.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unallotment modification gets committee approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2028</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would change the way the governor can use unallotment during a budget deficit.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minority councils get grim budget news</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2029</link>
<description>Proposed cuts are calling into question their ability of four minority councils to keep helping 14 percent of the states population.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dont darken the vehicle windows too much</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2030</link>
<description>Anyone who tries to sell or apply window glazes to motor vehicles that do not comply with Minnesota law could face misdemeanor 
charges.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Snow removal in unfinished subdivisions gets division OK</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2031</link>
<description>Local road authorities could plow snow in uncompleted subdivision developments, under a bill approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Utility interim rates hearing spills over to Monday</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2032</link>
<description>In a showdown between the attorney generals 
office and public utility companies, proposed changes to the way utilities obtain interim rate increases while awaiting lengthy Public Utilities Commission proceedings were debated in a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Education shifts codified to avoid future cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2033</link>
<description>A House division heard two bills that would prevent a future Legislature from deciding not to pay school 
districts the balance of state aid and property tax recognition levies</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Group calls for science and technology initiative</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2022</link>
<description>Minnesota faces a “crisis of competitiveness,” and needs a comprehensive science and technology initiative, members of an advisory group told a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Expanding Food Support eligibility plan put on hold</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2023</link>
<description>More Minnesotans would be eligible for the federal Food Support program under a bill held over for possible inclusion in an omnibus 
bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax break proposed for charitable gaming</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2024</link>
<description>Charitable gambling organizations could get a tax break if they contribute some of their proceeds to local governments, under a bill 
approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus transportation policy bill gets another chance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2025</link>
<description>Last years vetoed omnibus transportation policy bill has 
re-emerged to address governors concerns.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lawmakers to governor: whats Plan B?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2026</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlentys plan to fix a $1.2 billion state budget deficit relies too much on uncertain federal funding, DFL lawmakers said at a joint House committee hearing.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty calls for deep cuts, DFL leaders react</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2018</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty proposes deep spending cuts to fix the states projected $1.2 billion deficit; House DFL leaders say budget plan lacks balance.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sex offender facility added to bonding bill passed by the House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2019</link>
<description>A capital investment bill that aims to help stimulate the state's economy has gotten more expensive en route to a conference committee.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Eminent domain bill approved as amended by House division</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2020</link>
<description>Modifications to a law that gives public utilities the ability to take private property through a “quick take” process were approved as 
amended by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deep cuts cause for deep concern to cities and counties</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2021</link>
<description>Local government representatives told a House division that they cant sustain more state aid cuts.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Thousands of soldiers waiting for extra pay benefit</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2013</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that hopes to speed up payments for some National Guard members.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>High-speed Internet for all Minnesotans by 2015</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2014</link>
<description>A recommendation to provide high-speed Internet access to every Minnesotan by 2015 is on track to becoming an official state goal.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House leadership braces for busy floor sessions next week</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2015</link>
<description>House DFL leaders expect a couple of long floor sessions to debate the bonding bill and one that would extend a health care program that covers low-income Minnesotans.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minority leaders say expect bonding bill amendments next week</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2016</link>
<description>House Minority Leader Kurt Zellers warned DFL leaders that Republicans plan to uphold any gubernatorial veto if pet 
projects arent replaced in the bonding bill with what they view as higher priorities.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Temporary GAMC plan going to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2017</link>
<description>A plan to create a temporary, scaled-back version of General Assistance Medical Care is headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty offers familiar refrains in State of the State address</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2009</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty focused on economic reform during his State of the State address, but found time to mix in a little humor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>LCCMR requests get division approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2010</link>
<description>The LCCMR chose 48 environmental projects from among 240 requests to be recommended for funding in the remainder of this biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill heading to the House floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2011</link>
<description>The House capital investment bill will be on the floor Monday, now that a final committee has signed off.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>American Legion supports gambling law change</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2012</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would erase an unintended consequence of a gambling law change for American Legion posts.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill gets finance committee approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2008</link>
<description>The capital investment bill continues to speed toward the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Primary could move to August</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2002</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would move the traditional September primary to August</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bicyclists may get OK to proceed through red lights</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2003</link>
<description>A 2003 law omission could be rectified, much to the delight of those who prefer pedal power.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governor may adopt DFL 'angel' language</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2004</link>
<description>Angel investment tax credit language may  find its way into Gov. Tim Pawlentys supplemental budget proposal.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A two-year moratorium on foreclosure sales proposed.</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2005</link>
<description>A two-year moratorium on foreclosure sales proposed.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill gets division approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2006</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a high-impact bill despite another warning it could be rejected in whole.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unemployment insurance frustrations aired</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2007</link>
<description>Out-of-work Minnesotans aired some of their frustrations with the states unemployment insurance system to members of a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Citizens input needed on government redesign</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1998</link>
<description>A citizen comment line and Web site have been created by a bipartisan House caucus to generate ideas on how government can change the way it delivers services.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding might complicate cash flow</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1999</link>
<description>State budget officials said the drive to get bonding projects moving quickly this year might add to the states looming cash flow 
shortages.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Haitian relief donation could mean tax relief</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2000</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would allow Minnesotans to deduct charitable donations toward Haitian relief on their state tax return.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Amendments stall vote on eminent domain bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=2001</link>
<description>Last-minute amendments to a controversial bill that would rescind eminent domain exemptions for public service corporations caused the 
bill to be laid over until next week.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Building a ladder out of poverty</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1997</link>
<description>A hand up — not a handout — is the goal of an anti-poverty 
bill that won approval from a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Jobs, economy top DFL's legislative agenda</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1992</link>
<description>DFL leaders said the first two weeks of the 2010 legislative session will be all about jobs and the economy.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House releases its bonding proposal</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1993</link>
<description>Nearly $1 billion would be provided for projects around the state if the entire House bonding bill were to become law.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House has uneventful start on the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1994</link>
<description>For a session with lots to do, members got off to an uneventful start.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bills prepare for end of GAMC program</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1995</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill that would extend GAMC by more than a year and another that sets a contingency plan for the programs demise.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State prepares to borrow cash, just in case</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1988</link>
<description>Pawlenty administration officials hope to solve the states cash flow problems without borrowing money — but theyll be ready just in case.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tougher DWI sanctions offered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1989</link>
<description>DWI offenders could need to prove their sobriety to start a vehicle, and other parts of Minnesota's drunken driving laws might be toughened.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Report gives positive review to alternative education programs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1990</link>
<description>Alternative education programs could aid states Race to the Top application.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Students like web based postsecondary planning tool</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1991</link>
<description>The House and Senate education committees learned about a technological tool that has boosted high school seniors college acceptance rates.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Feb 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Those facing foreclosure could get a timeout</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1986</link>
<description>Bill proposes two-year moratorium on home mortgage foreclosures and more tenants rights.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Northstar line expansion funding sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1987</link>
<description>Steps could be taken to expand a rail line to what it was initially envisioned.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Republican House members to file brief in unallotment case</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1983</link>
<description>Thirty of the 47 House Republicans have signed on to a brief supporting the governor in an upcoming Supreme Court unallotment case.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Saints stadium, Orchestra Hall among bonding requests</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1984</link>
<description>A new stadium for the St. Paul Saints, a facelift for Orchestra Hall, a major civic center expansion in Rochester and much more — it was a full day for one House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Grant proposal laid out for greater connectivity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1985</link>
<description>An $80 million request would bring high-speed Internet to most schools in the state.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>MnSCU, U of M pitch bonding projects</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1980</link>
<description>Officials from state colleges and universities made their pitch for nearly half a billion dollars worth of higher education bonding projects.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House to hire outside counsel in unallotment case</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1981</link>
<description>As unallotment case moves to Supreme Court, House will again show its support with friend-of-the-court brief.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Draft statewide rail plan shared with legislators</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1982</link>
<description>It is likely going to cost billions of dollars to meet all of Minnesota's rail needs in the next 20 years.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Solutions sought for state's nuclear waste storage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1976</link>
<description>Minnesotas nuclear waste is piling up, and a bill would address the issue by forcing the federal government to take it or by providing for long-term storage in the state.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public safety bonding requests heard by House division</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1977</link>
<description>A sizeable gap exists between what the Department of Corrections has requested in capital investment funding and what the governor has recommended.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sex offender program request tops needs list</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1978</link>
<description>Growth in commitments to sex offender program is behind $89 million facility expansion request.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lawmakers debate prescription drug reforms</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1979</link>
<description>A ban on data mining of prescription drug information and tightened rules banning gifts to medical practitioners were debated at a joint House and Senate hearing.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Quick timeline established to get bonding bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1975</link>
<description>The biggest issue the Legislature traditionally addresses in an even-numbered year could be completed within the session's first three weeks.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minnesota Zoo improvement funds sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1974</link>
<description>The Minnesota Zoo had record attendance last year, but its leaders have a vision for the facility that would soon create a new record.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Recommendations given to fight childhood obesity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1972</link>
<description>Childhood obesity is a growing problem in Minnesota and it continues to get bigger.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Millions requested for early childhood facilities</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1973</link>
<description>A pair of proposals would provide millions of dollars to help some of the state's youngest residents.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governor calls for $685 million bonding bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1971</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty proposes bonding for $685 million in state projects, and warns lawmakers against passing a larger bill.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State may delay payments to school districts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1969</link>
<description>Payments to school districts could be delayed this spring to help solve the states short-term cash flow problems, state budget officials said.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget 'funk' could lead to program reform</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1970</link>
<description>Pre-session meeting provides look at impact of potential cuts to agriculture and veterans affairs.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pre-filed bills focus on bonding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1966</link>
<description>Legislators scheduled to reconvene Feb. 4</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 8 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislative leaders, governor discuss budget issues</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1968</link>
<description>A meeting between Gov. Tim Pawlenty and legislative leaders produced “no big breakthroughs” on the states budget problems.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 8 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Frustrations voiced over fiscal notes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1965</link>
<description>Members of a House subcommittee want state agencies to respond more promptly to requests for fiscal notes on proposed legislation.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 Jan 2010 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New laws effective Jan. 1, 2010</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1964</link>
<description>A number of new laws passed during the 2009 legislative session will take effect Jan. 1, 2010.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Forty-one ways to grow jobs in Minnesota</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1961</link>
<description>Lawmakers now have a list of 41 “legislative options” to help create jobs in Minnesota, thanks to the work of the House Jobs Task Force.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Questions, frustrations build over dealership closures</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1962</link>
<description>An update on auto dealership closures in Minnesota left many House Commerce and Labor Committee members with unanswered questions.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Interstate health insurance concerns raised</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1963</link>
<description>Minnesota may have a better idea when it comes to health care coverage than the feds.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Major budget cuts foreseen in states future</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1959</link>
<description>Up to 15 percent of the states budget may need to be cut, if lawmakers solve the states projected budget deficits without raising new revenues.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Looming end to GAMC brings out ideas</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1960</link>
<description>Members hope to soft-land states most vulnerable as they transition to new health program.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>States projected red ink brings calls for bipartisan action</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1958</link>
<description>Budget woes will take time to unwind, state economist says.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 3 Dec 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislators, governor react to projected budget deficit</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1957</link>
<description>Tough economic times could mean more tough decisions for state leaders — and soon.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Debate begins on new debt service guidelines</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1956</link>
<description>State budget officials are mum on whether new debt service guidelines for the state would accommodate a large bonding package favored by many lawmakers.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House questions unallotment with a court brief</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1954</link>
<description>A House committee voted to file a brief supporting separation of power issues in unallotment court case.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lawmaker questions Lake Pepin cleanup effort</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1955</link>
<description>Officials from the Pollution Control Agency aren't doing enough to address pollution in Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River, several lawmakers argued.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State faces cash flow problems</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1953</link>
<description>Short-term borrowing may soon be necessary to cover the states monthly expenses, state budget officials said.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Statewide broadband access improvement encouraged</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1952</link>
<description>A task force has concluded that Minnesota needs to upgrade its broadband speed and access to stay economically competitive.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 6 Nov 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Looming budget cut pushes services redesign</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1950</link>
<description>More input needed on proposed changes to state-operated mental health services.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Nov 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Power lines re-energize eminent domain debate</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1951</link>
<description>Frustrated landowners tell members of two House committees they need more protections from utility companies looking to build power transmission lines on their properties.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Nov 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Problems seen in energy stimulus programs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1949</link>
<description>State energy officials need to do a better job of 
ensuring that minority and low-income workers are included in weatherization and 
other stimulus projects, one lawmaker argues.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Current seizure and forfeiture laws reviewed by members</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1946</link>
<description>Changes may be forthcoming to state seizure and forfeiture laws, but lawmakers must first understand current operations.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Researcher links green buildings with improved health</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1947</link>
<description>Greener buildings may lead to improved health, an expert told members of a joint legislative panel.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State begins ARRA education grant process</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1948</link>
<description>Federal strings that come with money called into question.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Jobs task force hears Greater Minnesota concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1945</link>
<description>At a meeting in Milaca, members of the House Jobs Task Force sought input from small business owners on what government programs might help create jobs.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State faces revenue shortfall, fiscal trap</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1944</link>
<description>The weaker-than-expected tax revenues during the first fiscal quarter may be the least of Minnesotas problems, officials say.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lawmakers get LGA history lesson</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1943</link>
<description>A legislative study group reviewed the history of Minnesotas local government aid system in preparation for debating its future.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee looks at mental health costs in the justice system</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1942</link>
<description>Mental health concerns within the state's justice system have long been a concern, but with treatment costs increasing new options need to be viewed.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Central Corridor stop concerns raised</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1941</link>
<description>Some St. Paul residents, business leaders and city officials do not believe there are enough stops in the Capital City on the proposed Central Corridor light rail line.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Drug investigation changes, more cameras in squads proffered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1940</link>
<description>Changes in how illegal drug activity is investigated could be forthcoming.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Despite progress, racial health disparities remain</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1939</link>
<description>An initiative to reduce racial health disparities in Minnesota has yielded some success, but much work remains to be done, members of a House committee learned.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee hears plight of auto dealers, gets updates on 
lottery and Vikings</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1938</link>
<description>Bankruptcy deals for Chrysler and General Motors are 
putting Minnesota auto dealers out of business, members of a House committee 
learned.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Oct 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Task force ponders job-growth strategies</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1937</link>
<description>In their first meeting, members of the House Jobs Task Force learned they may have limited options to spur job creation in Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More transportation spending from ARRA funds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1936</link>
<description>Minnesota is getting more bang for the buck when it comes to transportation projects funded by federal stimulus dollars.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Plan proffered to return items seized by gang strike force</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1935</link>
<description>A plan is being put together to potentially help return money and property illegally seized by the Metro Gang Strike Force.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Potential housing assistance plan shared</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1934</link>
<description>A state housing agency could have more than $1.4 billion in new funding available to support affordable housing programs.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State in race to October ARRA reporting requirement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1932</link>
<description>New era of reporting transparency being ushered in along with the stimulus funds.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Quartet of committees address alleged Metro Gang Strike Force misconduct</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1933</link>
<description>A dozen law enforcement officers may have engaged in fraudulent activity, and a group of legislators want to know how.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legacy funding plans reviewed by a House division</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1931</link>
<description>Legacy amendment funding money has been coming in for nearly two months, but 
plans on how to spend it remain a work in progress.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Three-dozen House members appointed to jobs task force</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1930</link>
<description>A group charged with creating a jobs plan that can be passed in the 2010 session will get plenty of member's opinions.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Most House committees see budget decrease</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1928</link>
<description>Most of the 36 House committees, subcommittees or divisions will see a budget decrease for the 2009-2010 biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Efficiency of unemployment programs questioned</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1926</link>
<description>Members of a House division questioned whether federal stimulus funds intended to help the unemployed are being used efficiently by state officials.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State prepares for possible H1N1 outbreak</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1927</link>
<description>Depending on swine flu outbreak severity, vaccination of school-aged children could be mandatory.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New laws take effect Aug. 1</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1925</link>
<description>It will be legal to mount Global Positioning Systems near the bottommost portion of a vehicles windshield.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 1 Aug 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New bipartisan jobs task force announced</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1924</link>
<description>Speaker says group to focus on jump-starting lagging construction industry.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reports find lax security, management for IT systems</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1923</link>
<description>State officials told members of a House division that the states information technology systems suffer from security vulnerabilities and lax oversight.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislative panel condemns governors unallotment plans</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1921</link>
<description>A legislative commission approved a resolution condemning Gov. Tim Pawlentys plan to unallot nearly $2.7 billion in state spending.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New laws take effect July 1</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1922</link>
<description>Many laws with a fiscal impact take effect at the start of the states fiscal year, July 1.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Zellers chosen to lead House Republicans</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1920</link>
<description>Rep. Kurt Zellers has been elected House minority leader.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Seifert makes way for new House minority leader</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1919</link>
<description>The House Republican caucus is scheduled to meet Tuesday night to choose new minority leader.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislative leaders demand unallotment details</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1918</link>
<description>Members of the Legislative Advisory Commission demanded 
details from state officials on Gov. Tim Pawlentys unallotment plans.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unallotment recommendations announced by governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1917</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty has released his unallotment plan to balance the state's projected nearly $2.68 billion budget shortfall for the 2010-2011 biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Seifert to step down as minority leader</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1916</link>
<description>House Minority Leader Marty Seifert is stepping down from his position as the Houses top Republican.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Jun 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gardner asked to apologize to the House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1915</link>
<description>House Ethics Committee determines member did not exercise sound judgment with social networking posts about colleagues.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 2 Jun 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Share your opinion on Session Daily</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1914</link>
<description>Please take a moment to share your opinion on Session 
Daily. Your comments help us improve our services and plan for the future.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minority leader offers post-session thoughts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1912</link>
<description>As DFL leaders travel around the state to offer their 
thoughts on the end of session, House Minority Leader Marty Seifert (R-Marshall) 
offered his own.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty talks unallotment, veto plans</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1913</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty announced plans to veto several bills, possibly sign others and use unallotment to solve the states remaining budget deficit.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus pensions bill awaits gubernatorial action</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1905</link>
<description>Public employees pension plans would undergo a series of changes under a bill passed by the House, but proposed funding changes for teachers pensions are not included.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Primary seatbelt goes to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1906</link>
<description>A bill that would make failure to wear a seatbelt a primary offense awaits action by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Medical marijuana bill goes to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1907</link>
<description>Going to the governor is a bill that would allow doctors to prescribe medical marijuana to terminally ill patients.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Schools anti-bullying policies beefed up</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1908</link>
<description>A bill on its way to the governor would require harassment, bullying, intimidation and violence policies in schools.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty to receive stripped-down elections bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1909</link>
<description>The House passed a stripped-down version of an omnibus elections bill, hoping — but failing — to gain bipartisan support. It now goes to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Chaotic end to session</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1910</link>
<description>The 2009 session came to an end with no agreement on how to resolve the state's budget deficit.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus game, fish bill on its way to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1911</link>
<description>The omnibus game, fish and forestry bill is on its way to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governor puts counteroffer on the table</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1902</link>
<description>Education shift remains in play, but cuts to health and human services appear to be off the table.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Override attempt fails on health care veto</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1903</link>
<description>A motion to override Gov. Tim Pawlentys veto of $381 million in health care funding for poor and chronically ill Minnesotans failed.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax veto override fails</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1904</link>
<description>An effort to override the governors veto of the tax bill was defeated 85-49 by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Provision for expanded liquor sales at new stadium stands</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1896</link>
<description>Liquor bill would allow drinking throughout or nowhere at new university stadium.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legacy standstill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1897</link>
<description>With time running out this session, lawmakers are at a standstill on how to spend money from a sales tax increase dedicated to the environment and the arts.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conferees approve LCCMR funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1898</link>
<description>Environmental projects recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on 
Minnesota Resources have been agreed to by a conference committee and now return to the House and Senate floors.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Paint could cost consumers more upfront for disposal later</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1899</link>
<description>A bill going to the governor could add up to 35 cents to the cost of a can of paint or stain to cover the cost of disposing any leftover product.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Controlling a duty of disposition</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1900</link>
<description>Funeral directors could get more clarity regarding the disposition of a body upon death.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governors latest offer gets a public overview</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1901</link>
<description>Legislative commission review governors offer that accepts education shifts, but calls for more cuts to health and human services, local aid and higher education.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission demands answers on unallotment</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1893</link>
<description>Members of the Legislative Commission on Planning and Fiscal Policy questioned state officials on the governors unallotment plans.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Video pull tab efforts rebuffed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1894</link>
<description>Charitable gambling bill brings on efforts to allow for video pull tab games and substition of paper for electronic tabs.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House gives OK to mini-trucks on local roads</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1895</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would authorize mini-truck operation on local streets and highways under a special permit issued by the local government.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty: No special session</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1888</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty said there will be no special session this year if the Legislature does not finish its work by midnight Monday.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus elections bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1889</link>
<description>The House passed an omnibus elections bill that includes absentee voting reforms and provides for early voting.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House passes LCCMR recommendations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1890</link>
<description>A bill containing funding for environmental projects that were recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources was passed by 
the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increasing attorney fee awards</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1891</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that could help people fight the state.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conferees brush up on paint stewardship bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1892</link>
<description>A conference committee successfully amended proposed legislation for a paint stewardship pilot program.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1883</link>
<description>A bill that would provide $54 million for flood mitigation awaits gubernatorial action.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Our bill gets bipartisan support</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1884</link>
<description>An omnibus agriculture and veterans affairs finance bill received strong legislative support, and now awaits action by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Just in case scenario now in place</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1885</link>
<description>The so-called lights-on bill to keep government operating passes House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Higher education bill on its way to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1886</link>
<description>State funding for higher education would receive a 2 percent cut, under a bill on its way to Gov. Tim Pawlentys desk.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>E-12 education bill heads to the governors desk</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1887</link>
<description>Awaiting action by the governor is an omnibus E-12 education finance bill that was passed 85-49 by the House and 49-16 by the Senate.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lights on bill moved to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1876</link>
<description>Bill fast-tracked to keep state government going — just in case.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Planning for more potential human services cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1877</link>
<description>A proposal to cut more from the approved omnibus health and human service finance bill was considered by a conference committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conferees agree on agriculture and veterans financing</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1878</link>
<description>Veterans homes funding resolved, and bill now awaits action by House and Senate.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public safety finance bill to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1879</link>
<description>The omnibus public safety finance bill awaits action by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Claims bill passed by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1880</link>
<description>More than $66,000 could be paid by the state under the annual claims bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Agreement reached on higher education funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1881</link>
<description>The higher education finance conference committee reached an agreement that includes a 2 percent total cut to state higher education funding.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>E-12 conferees agree on finance bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1882</link>
<description>Conferees agreed on an omnibus E-12 education finance bill that would keep public school funding steady.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus retirement bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1870</link>
<description>A package of changes to public employees retirement programs won approval from a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Attorney fees for home warranty enforcement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1871</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would allow homeowners who successfully sue a builder or contractor for a warranty violation eligible to receive reasonable attorney fees.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No veto override attempt planned yet.</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1872</link>
<description>The House majority leader expects major spending bills to be ready for the House and Senate floors Monday or Tuesday.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bills would boost homeowners rights</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1873</link>
<description>House approval was given to several bills that would boost homeowners warranty rights and contractors or builders responsibilities for faulty construction.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Health finance bill gets House, Senate OK</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1874</link>
<description>House and Senate approval was given to the omnibus health and human services finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Booster seat age, height limits passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1875</link>
<description>A plan to keep some of the state's youngest residents safer in a vehicle was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax bill passed, vetoed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1869</link>
<description>A tax bill that would raise $1 billion in taxes in the 2010-2011 biennium was passed by the House and Senate, but vetoed by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 9 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Speaker doesnt doubt governor will veto new tax bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1863</link>
<description>The House speaker believes a new tax bill that will raise $500 million less than another bill will likely be vetoed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 8 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Medical marijuana bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1864</link>
<description>The House Finance Committee approved the medical marijuana 
bill 17-6 after adding a sunset provision.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 8 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tougher sex trafficking penalties OK'd by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1865</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would make sex trafficking penalties more severe.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 8 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Meeting electronically instead of in person</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1866</link>
<description>The House passed a bill designed to save state agencies 
money by allowing them to meet electronically, under certain conditions.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 8 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deputy sheriffs can maybe practice law</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1867</link>
<description>A law that prohibits deputy sheriffs from practicing law may be repealed.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 8 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Enforcing subsidized housing contracts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1868</link>
<description>A clarification to existing law could help cities enforce subsidized housing contracts.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 8 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House passes technical tax changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1859</link>
<description>A tax bill not seen as controversial, received about an hour and half of debate on the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 7 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Republicans call out lack of progress and process</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1860</link>
<description>Minority Leader says 'no way' on taxes, and starting over is an unacceptable option.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 7 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Thursday night deadline is no more</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1861</link>
<description>House and Senate opt to amend Joint Rules regarding committee deadlines.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 7 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Vulnerable, elderly adult protection passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1855</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would help vulnerable adults who are maltreated or taken advantage of financially.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>E-12 conferees keep busy, but await target</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1856</link>
<description>Although the E-12 education conference committee still lacks a budget target, conferees are “not stalled at all.”</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Controlled substance testing exemption offered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1857</link>
<description>State workers with commercial drivers licenses to receive their required drug and alcohol testing from the federal government.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conference committee deadline expected to come and go</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1858</link>
<description>Leaderships goal to have conference committees reach agreements by Thursday night most likely wont be met.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Economic development conference report passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1847</link>
<description>The House voted 74-57 to send a conference committees compromised version of the omnibus economic development finance bill to the governors desk.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Safer baby bottles could go on shelves</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1848</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would take certain childrens products containing a certain chemical off Minnesota store shelves within two years.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legacy amendment bill gets division approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1849</link>
<description>The plan for spending money on the arts and environment from the states new constitutional amendment received division approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House passes River Board reorganization bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1850</link>
<description>Heading to the governor is a bill to reorganize the Minnesota River Joint Powers Board in southern Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Adjusted electronic-waste bill goes to governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1851</link>
<description>House approval was given to a modification of the Electronics Recycling Act that was passed two years ago.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public safety policy bill approved by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1852</link>
<description>House approval was given to an omnibus public safety policy bill that crosses over a number of areas.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Making Safe at Home program more secure</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1853</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would make the Safe at Home program more secure.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission gets update on pending omnibus bills</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1854</link>
<description>Conference committee bills have some percolating issues, speaker says.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 5 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Agreement reached on economic development finance bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1841</link>
<description>Conferees reached an agreement on the omnibus economic 
development finance bill that includes less spending than either the House or 
Senate proposals.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Environment policy bill moves to House floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1842</link>
<description>A policy bill related to the Department of Natural Resources and the Board of Water and Soil Resources awaits floor action</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Child passenger vehicle restraint bill to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1843</link>
<description>A bill designed to keep young children safer in a vehicle awaits action by the full House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ag and vets finance bill closing delayed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1844</link>
<description>No agreement on veterans homes funding because Senate proposal sits in health and human service finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House approves majority rule for lake drawdowns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1845</link>
<description>Fewer number of landowners would be needed to use method to control invasive species.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sewage treatment inspectiion required</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1846</link>
<description>Bill calls for system inspection before a homeowner can receive a  building permit.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Speaker shares progress concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1838</link>
<description>The House speaker said some 'road blocks' have hindered session-ending progress.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 1 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill released on legacy amendment funds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1839</link>
<description>A plan for spending money on the arts and environment from 
the states new constitutional amendment has been released.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 1 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>K-12 education conferees leave the starting gate</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1840</link>
<description>K-12 education conferees began to shape 
their final bill by adopting almost 60 of the least controversial provisions.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 1 May 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus energy policy bill passes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1835</link>
<description>An amendment that would have repealed the states moratorium on nuclear power doesnt make it on to the energy policy bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission begins work on budget comparisons</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1836</link>
<description>Goal for transparency in budget negotiations complicated by how various funding options are used.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public safety policy conferees complete their work</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1837</link>
<description>The public safety policy conference committee has agreed to a number of provisions that will affect corrections, courts and public safety.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Careless driving bill crashes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1830</link>
<description>A bill whose accompanying fiscal notes from a handful of agencies showed zero direct cost was rejected by the House Finance Committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Quick turn-around hoped for on ag, vets compromise</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1831</link>
<description>Conference committees given more leeway to set their own targets, House co-chair says.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Biobusiness grant eligibility expanded</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1832</link>
<description>State colleges and universities would be eligible for 
bioscience business infrastructure grants, under a bill passed unanimously by 
the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Helping abandoned and problem properties</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1833</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that aims to clarify rules and regulations for how cities can secure foreclosed and abandoned properties.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House OKs federal energy money</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1834</link>
<description>Nearly $200 million in federal money could be made available for state energy projects.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Leaders try to decipher governors balance sheet</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1825</link>
<description>House and Senate leaders say budget proposals need to be comparing apples to apples.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House approves stimulus oversight funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1826</link>
<description>Bill would provide state agencies $1.1 million for reporting and oversight of federal stimulus spending.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Helping small manufacturers grow</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1827</link>
<description>More companies would be able to take advantage of the states small business growth acceleration program under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Environment policy bill to Ways and Means</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1828</link>
<description>New regulations proposed for state parks, operation of watercraft and all terrain vehicles.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Speaker says 'small steps' are productive</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1829</link>
<description>Legislative leaders met with Gov. Tim Pawlenty for about 90 minutes to work toward a budget resolution.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus health and human services bill passes the House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1824</link>
<description>Bill sponsor calls it 'best case scenario' and proposal hinges on the future of tax bill passed Saturday.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House member resting after vehicle incident</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1821</link>
<description>Speaker says incident raises concerns about late-night sessions.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public safety finance bill passed by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1822</link>
<description>The House omnibus public safety finance bill features a slight reduction for the Department of Corrections and a dozen court fee increases.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House passes funding package for jobs and housing</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1823</link>
<description>The House passed an omnibus economic development finance bill that includes loan forgiveness for the Xcel Energy Center and an emergency employment program.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Early childhood finance omnibus bill passes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1819</link>
<description>The omnibus early childhood finance bill was passed 84-47 by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>K-12 education finance bill passed by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1820</link>
<description>The omnibus K-12 education finance bill was passed 85-48 by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Higher education funding package approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1817</link>
<description>The House approved a higher education funding package that caps tuition increases at state colleges and universities for the next two years.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Amendment-laden ag and vets bill passes House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1818</link>
<description>Traditional first omnibus finance bill sees support split along party lines.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cash infusion for ag-related water issues</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1811</link>
<description>Funding called for to address effect of agricultural practices on states water.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax bill ekes by</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1812</link>
<description>The House Taxes Committee narrowly approved its omnibus bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Environment policy bill gets division approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1813</link>
<description>The House Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division approved its policy bill after adding a trio of provisions.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Free fishing in state parks deleted from omnibus bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1814</link>
<description>An attempt to promote more fishing by offering free angling in state parks was deleted from the House omnibus game and fish bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Economic outlook goes “from pitch black to very dark”</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1815</link>
<description>The states employment and economic development commissioner told lawmakers the economy is showing faint signs of improvement.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Health and human services cuts that hurt</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1816</link>
<description>The House Health and Human Services Finance Division approved its omnibus bill that would cut services by $400 million over the next two biennia.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus tax bill unveiled</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1802</link>
<description>A tax bill its sponsor says is an attempt to reform the tax code and is built on two vision bills has been unveiled.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Money for stimulus oversight approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1803</link>
<description>A House committee approved $1.1 million for reporting and oversight of federal stimulus funds.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reducing bus, truck greenhouse gas emissions OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1804</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to two bills that seek funds for emissions-cutting equipment for trucks and buses.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lift bridge funding gets committee approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1805</link>
<description>A plan to create a Stillwater lift bridge endowment account received the approval of a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minority report calls for more veterans spending</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1806</link>
<description>Ag and vets bill sponsor tries to address vet spending concerns during House Ways and Means Committee hearing.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Work-sharing rather than layoffs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1807</link>
<description>Reflecting economic downturn, 1984 program now sees participation from 2,000 companies.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>'Brandon's Law' gets unanimous House support</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1808</link>
<description>Unanimous House approval was given to a bill designed to help find missing and endangered adults more quickly.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Plan would prevent some high-tech layoffs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1809</link>
<description>Going to the governor is a bill that would provide unemployment benefits and training for some employees.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget reserve, cash flow study approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1810</link>
<description>A bill sponsored by Rep. Loren Solberg (DFL-Grand Rapids) 
would help make sure the state keeps enough money tucked away for the future.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minority leader reiterates no new taxes mantra</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1798</link>
<description>House Minority Leader Marty Seifert sent a stern warning to House and Senate Democrats about the need to strip proposed tax increases from their omnibus bills.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Speaker leaves door open to special session</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1799</link>
<description>The House speaker said that stimulus funds could complicate a smooth end to 
the end of session.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pre-Labor Day school start out again</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1800</link>
<description>The omnibus K-12 education finance bill was approved by the House Finance Division without one controversial provision.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Major spending bills realigned</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1801</link>
<description>Several of the Houses major spending bills were split up and realigned to match up with the Senates budget proposals.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bus driver clarification OK'd by House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1793</link>
<description>Awarding gubernatorial action is a bill that would correct an unintended consequence of a 2008 law.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Teacher background checks detailed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1794</link>
<description>School districts or administrators interviewing teachers with a disciplinary 
record with the Board of Teaching could have more information to help them make a hiring decision.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Firefighters may need a license</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1795</link>
<description>A bill to create licensing standards for full-time firefighters was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Leaders warn governor about one and done</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1796</link>
<description>Legislative leaders warned the governor that the first set of finance bills may be 
the only ones he gets.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Environment bill to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1797</link>
<description>The omnibus environment and natural resources finance bill is headed to the floor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>'Brandon's Law' heading to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1788</link>
<description>After some emotional testimony from the parents of a missing teen, committee approval was given to a bill that could help find their son.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House cuts $22 million from spending targets</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1789</link>
<description>The target amendment reflects budget changes needed in transportation, taxes, housing and public health, and energy.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cigarette tax increase proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1790</link>
<description>A $1 per pack cigarette tax is on the table as a way to fund colorectal cancer prevention and womens heart health programs.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus education finance bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1791</link>
<description>On a mostly party-line vote, the House K-12 Education Finance Division approved an omnibus education finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State government funding package approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1792</link>
<description>The omnibus state government finance bill still includes budget cuts for the Legislature, but not slot machines for the airport.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Crime alert notification modification</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1782</link>
<description>Awaiting gubernatorial action is a bill that would require law enforcement agencies to issue crime alerts in a format that a blind person can access.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New summer camp inspection fee debated</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1783</link>
<description>An amendment to a proposed $500 licensing fee for summer camp inspections was defeated by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus higher education finance bill takes shape</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1784</link>
<description>A House division unveiled the higher education and 
workforce development finance bill, and expects to move it forward by Thursday.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Capital investment conference committee begins</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1785</link>
<description>At its first gathering, House and Senate conferees compared differences of their respective capital investment omnibus bills.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Communities could focus on needs of aging</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1786</link>
<description>Bill promoting communities designed to meet the needs of an aging population moves to Senate.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus state government finance bill unveiled</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1787</link>
<description>Bill to fund government agencies also calls for slot machines at the airport.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Honoring a former House speaker</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1775</link>
<description>Awaiting the governor's signature is a bill that would 
attach the name of a former House speaker to a northern Minnesota highway.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>County office appointments bill defeated</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1776</link>
<description>A bill that would have allowed counties to make certain offices appointed rather than elected was defeated by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House majority leaders pleased thus far</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1777</link>
<description>House majority leaders say the session is on course and that they are pleased with the bipartisan bills passed thus far.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ag and veterans bill could be setting bad tone for rest of session</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1778</link>
<description>The House minority leader said controversy over a traditional bipartisan bill may not bode well for a smooth end to session.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Regulating Internet ticket sales</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1779</link>
<description>Those purchasing tickets over the Internet could have a better chance of getting seats in a packed house.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Agriculture gives so veterans can see more dollars</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1780</link>
<description>Usual bipartisan bill meets with resistance over proposed cuts to vets programming</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Putting government data online</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1781</link>
<description>A pair of bills that would make government spending data easier to find online might be included in the omnibus state government finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House approves bonding bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1772</link>
<description>A $200 million omnibus capital investment bill was approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 6 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Shoring up unemployment benefits with stimulus dollars</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1773</link>
<description>A bill that will allow the state to use $130 million from 
the federal stimulus for unemployment benefits is on its way to the governors 
desk.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 6 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Anglers seek to extend bow season</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1774</link>
<description>Following a trial season last year, anglers are proposing to extend the bow fishing season in Minnesota and to expand it to more lakes and rivers.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 6 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minority caucus wont support veterans cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1769</link>
<description>Among topics discussed by the House minority leader at a media availability were that his caucus will not support cuts to veterans programs.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 3 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill, clean water funding next week</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1770</link>
<description>House members will likely voting on a bonding bill and a package of clean water stimulus projects before they begin their Easter break next week.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 3 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Homebuyer savings plan proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1771</link>
<description>A bill to establish a homebuyer savings trust fund between a hopeful buyer and their employer was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 3 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Primary seatbelt gets second committee approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1762</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would make failure to wear a seatbelt a primary offense.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Taxing digital downloads</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1763</link>
<description>You would have to pay extra for that song you bought online, if a bill heard by the House Taxes Committee is passed.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Audit pinpoints inadequate state controls</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1764</link>
<description>Questions raised about states readiness to adequately track federal stimulus fund disbursements.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Super majority needed for lake drawdown</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1765</link>
<description>Bil would make it easier for cities to get rid of unwanted vegetation,</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Coordinating young childrens services</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1766</link>
<description>A House division liked a proposal to create an inventory of early childhood services.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Integration revenue modifications proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1767</link>
<description>A pair of bills to modify school integration revenue provisions have been held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Recount changes approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1768</link>
<description>Election recounts could become a less frequent occurrence under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cultural organization funding proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1756</link>
<description>Several cultural organizations have a better idea of what their budgets might look like now that an omnibus bill has been introduced.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 1 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governor approves federal dollar use</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1757</link>
<description>The Department of Transportation can spend potential federal economic stimulus dollars.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 1 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Safer schools for all learners</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1758</link>
<description>School boards may be required to adopt a written policy that prohibits harassment, bullying, intimidation, hazing and violence based on personal characteristics or association with a person having any of these characteristics.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 1 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Uses for Clean Water Fund proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1759</link>
<description>A bill provide funding for clean water fund legacy activities was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 1 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sales tax expansion recommended</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1760</link>
<description>Expanding the states sales tax to necessities could become reality after a 
report from The Governor's 21st Century Tax Reform Commission.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 1 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Accessibility standards for state IT proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1761</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill designed to make state 
Web sites and other technology more accessible to people with disabilities.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 1 Apr 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increased court costs possible</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1748</link>
<description>A House division held over four bills that could increase court costs to consumers, in an effort to help fund the state's judicial system.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A day to honor fallen firefighters</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1749</link>
<description>Firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty would be honored on the first Sunday each October, under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minnesota Zoo seeks clean water funds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1750</link>
<description>The Minnesota Zoo is requesting $1.5 million from the state's clean water fund to permanently improve the water quality of its central lake, which is a breeding ground for trumpeter swans.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Extra sick leave for state-employed veterans</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1751</link>
<description>State-employed veterans who suffer from a service-related 
disability might be able to apply for extra sick leave to receive treatment in 
some circumstances.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Extension sought on creditor mediation law sunset date</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1752</link>
<description>A bill to extend the Farmer-Lender Mediation Act by two years was held over by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding for homeless, runaway youth sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1753</link>
<description>Held over by a House division was a bill to provide $4 million for the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House bonding bill on its way</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1754</link>
<description>A House division gave its approval to a $200 million capital investment bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Scholarships for early graduates</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1755</link>
<description>An incentive is being billed as way to make college more affordable and save school districts money.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House budget proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1744</link>
<description>House caps salaries; members housing allowance sees trim and insurance 
contributions rise in House biennial budget.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax conference committee report approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1745</link>
<description>House members approved a conference 
committee report that would update federal tax conformity and makes changes to 
the Green Acres Program.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Property tax division report hearing</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1746</link>
<description>The House Property and Local Sales Tax Division report had its initial hearing.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Leased farmland could sell to highest bidder</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1747</link>
<description>A total of 5,000 acres of state land leased for agricultural use could go on the selling block if a House bill becomes law.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transportation policy bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1739</link>
<description>A bill that its sponsor said could be &quot;world-record small 
transportation omnibus bill&quot; got the green light from a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Green Acres, tax reform on deck for next week</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1740</link>
<description>The House speaker discussed legislative leaders tense first meeting with the governor on budget solutions, and also previewed next weeks legislative activity.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pet breeder bill tabled</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1741</link>
<description>The so called “puppy mill” bill was tabled in committee with concerns over search and seizure.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House committee sets biennial spending target</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1742</link>
<description>The House Ways and Means Committee set General Fund spending at $30.6 billion for the upcoming biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Preserving indigenous languages</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1743</link>
<description>A volunteer working group could be established on Native language revitalization and preservation.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Military days of honor proclaimed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1734</link>
<description>House approval was given to two bills that would honor Vietnam veterans and Medal of Honor recipients.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>OK to receive federal funds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1735</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would allow the state to spend transportation economic stimulus dollars.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus public safety policy bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1736</link>
<description>Changes to predatory offenders, crime victims, courts, licensing of drivers, public safety and corrections have been approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty future budget gets questioned</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1737</link>
<description>Commission members wanted details on how the governor plans to balance the 2012-2013 biennial state budget.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Green Acres, federal conformity get green light</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1738</link>
<description>Members of a conference committee finalized an agreement on a federal tax 
conformity and Green Acres bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Grant requested to retain rural pharmacies</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1731</link>
<description>Held over by a House division is a bill that would provide $400,000 for rural pharmacy planning and transition grants.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding for HIV public awareness campaign</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1732</link>
<description>A statewide campaign could be designed to raise awareness and to educate the public on HIV transmission and prevention.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax conference committee begins</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1733</link>
<description>Members of a conference committee began to discuss differences in a federal 
tax conformity bill.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fund education not fluff, lawmaker says</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1722</link>
<description>Rep. Pat Garofalo said new priorities are needed so state integration aid goes to core education needs.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increasing booking fees proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1723</link>
<description>Held over by a House division is a bill that would let counties increase jail booking fees to cover costs.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill asks for accountability from DEED</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1724</link>
<description>The state agency in charge of economic development would be required to measure the impact of its programs, under a proposal approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sunset date OK'd on medical marijuana bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1725</link>
<description>A bill to allow marijuana for medical purposes was approved by a House committee, but not without some changes.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Help for children with hearing impairments</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1726</link>
<description>A fee increase to the cost of heritable and congenital testing of newborns is being sought to provide a constant funding source for services to families of children with hearing-impairment disorders.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding sought for homeless programs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1727</link>
<description>A House division held over a bill to appropriate money for long-term homelessness, transitional housing programs and emergency services grants.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Teacher-led school reform option</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1728</link>
<description>Approved by a House committee is a bill that would establish site-governed schools that are premised on site-based agreements and operate similar to charter schools.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Charges on lost cell phone</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1729</link>
<description>Owners could have some protection for unauthorized charges on their lost cell phone.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sunday off-sale could be on sale</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1730</link>
<description>Sunday liquor sales could raise state revenue by up to $10 million annually, supporters say.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Local option sales tax proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1718</link>
<description>The House tax chairs proposed giving counties the option to impose a ½-cent local option sales tax to offset cuts to county aid.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax bill likely headed to conference committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1719</link>
<description>After a lengthy debate, the House refused to concur on a federal tax conformity bill with the Senate because Green Acres provisions were added.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fewer speeding violations on record</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1720</link>
<description>Speed violations in excess of 10 mph over a 60 mph speed limit could be kept off of driver's driving record.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Requiring owner-occupied residences</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1721</link>
<description>Cities with areas hit hard by foreclosures could require 
those who purchase foreclosed homes to live in them rather than rent them out.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transit capital expenditures sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1715</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would allow the Metropolitan Council to issue up to $34.2 million in bonds for capital expenditures.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Hiring help for felons</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1716</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would prohibit a public employer from considering the criminal history of an applicant until after the applicant has been scheduled for a job interview.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Disaster assistance fund for local governments</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1717</link>
<description>A local disaster assistance program has been proposed to 
help cities and counties that dont qualify for federal assistance.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>GPS mounting bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1707</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that  would allow GPS or other navigation 
systems to be mounted or located near the bottom-most portion of a windshield.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Less paperwork for the library</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1708</link>
<description>The House passed a bill designed to reduce government paperwork without reducing transparency.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Patient privacy at stake</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1709</link>
<description>Some members are pushing for a bill that would repeal a 2008 law requiring health plan companies to submit encounter data.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>BWSR seeks heritage funds for wetland easements</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1710</link>
<description>The Board of Water and Soil Resources is hoping to leverage more than $9 million from the Lessard Outdoor Heritage Fund in order to be eligible for up to $13 million from the federal government.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>DFL budget keeps education a priority</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1711</link>
<description>House DFLers released their budget framework that holds education harmless.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>'Wiki' needed for educators to share ideas</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1712</link>
<description>An interactive Web site, accessible to all school districts, could feature relevant ideas and links.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Automatic voter registration bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1713</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would make voter registration easy — too easy, according to some Republicans.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Emergency employment program proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1714</link>
<description>A wage subsidy program similar to one used to combat unemployment in the early 1980s is being proposed.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Misusing taxpayer dollars clarified as a criminal offense</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1702</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would make misappropriation of state funds a criminal offense.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Timeout called for on prevailing wage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1703</link>
<description>Some members say its time for a timeout regarding the state's prevailing wage mandate.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Covering short-term housing costs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1704</link>
<description>Heading to the House floor is a bill that would force homebuilders or remodelers who breach their warranty to pay for the homeowner's temporary place to stay.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Owners of manufactured homes pay for protection</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1705</link>
<description>A bill to modify the manufactured home relocation trust fund was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>General obligation bond investing for individuals</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1706</link>
<description>Minnesotans could invest in state general obligation bonds in denominations as small as $500 under a proposal approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Absentee voting changes approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1695</link>
<description>Lessons learned from the recent U.S. Senate recount are the basis for a bill that would update Minnesotas absentee voting laws.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Wild animal damage reimbursement held over</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1696</link>
<description>A plan to increase funding for programs that provide compensation to farmers whose crops are damaged by animals could be included in an omnibus bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Hoping to provide more affordable housing</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1697</link>
<description>The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency hopes to get $100 million for additional units of affordable housing.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Getting all available federal funds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1698</link>
<description>Included in the governor's updated budget is a contingency fund for federal stimulus local grant matches.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty proposes updated budget</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1699</link>
<description>The governor's revised biennial budget includes an approximately 4 percent reduction in General Fund expenditures from current levels.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A new way to measure unemployment</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1700</link>
<description>The state would use a broader, more comprehensive measure of unemployment under a bill approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No state aid cut for private college students</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1701</link>
<description>A proposal to cut financial aid for students at private, for-profit colleges was defeated in a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax reform proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1692</link>
<description>Minnesotans could see an overhaul of the states tax system if two House tax chairs have their way.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Council reimbusement advances to House floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1693</link>
<description>A bill to temporarily fund administrative costs of the Lessard Outdoor Heritage Council is headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Infrastructure for hybrid electric vehicles</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1694</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would regulate electric vehicle infrastructure and provide incentives for adoption and use of electric vehicles.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Domestic abuse arrest time expansion</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1687</link>
<description>Police could get double the time to arrest someone who is believed to have committed domestic abuse.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No firearm for you</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1688</link>
<description>Felony domestic assault and domestic assault by strangulation may be added to the list of crimes resulting in no firearm ownership.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Benefits extension sought for allied Vietnam and Laos soldiers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1689</link>
<description>State veteran program eligibility is being sought for Hmong U.S. citizens who fought 
as allies in the Vietnam War.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House budget targets expected next week</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1690</link>
<description>House DFL leaders plan to release a budget plan next week that will differ from the Senates proposed across-the-board cuts.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reverse mortgage rules tightened</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1691</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would prevent seniors from jeopardizing their homes if they turn to reverse mortgages to find cash.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Hoping to pass Brandon's Law</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1682</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would establish procedures for investigating missing person cases.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Loan forgiveness for the Xcel Energy Center</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1683</link>
<description>A bill would forgive the bulk of an outstanding loan for St. Pauls Xcel Energy Center so the city could fund a new ice rink.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Home school mandates reduced</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1684</link>
<description>A bill to reduce certain reporting and testing mandates would benefit home school parents and school superintendents.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ground and surface water study</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1685</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would fund a comprehensive statewide sustainability study of ground and surface water.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>BOWSR representation may expand</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1686</link>
<description>The Board of Water and Soil Resources could increase from 12 to 15 members, 
under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>High-stakes high school test evaluated</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1676</link>
<description>Committee alternative was given to a bill that could let students graduate, even if they have not successfully passed the Minnesota basic skills-test.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Local government performance standards bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1677</link>
<description>Local governments could receive incentives to participate in a set of voluntary performance standards, under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Local government mandate relief bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1678</link>
<description>A bill that would lift a number of mandates and maintenance of effort requirements on local governments was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Occupational English training for Southeast Asians</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1679</link>
<description>A bill that would fund occupational English training for 
Southeast Asians in Hennepin County was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax preparer changes proffered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1680</link>
<description>People who enter into tax refund anticipation loan agreements could have a business day to change their mind.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Solar energy for schools</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1681</link>
<description>Division approval was given to one of two bills that would pay for solar energy installations in 20 to 30 Minnesota schools.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Early voting bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1669</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would allow 
Minnesotans to vote as early as two weeks before Election Day.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Colon cancer screening possibly provided</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1670</link>
<description>Colorectal cancer screening could be provided for some uninsured Minnesotans.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Staff assault sentences clarified</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1671</link>
<description>Three additional words could guarantee more time behind bars for some inmates.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pediatric psychiatrist loan forgiveness</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1672</link>
<description>Pediatric psychiatrists could be added to a loan forgiveness program.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Housing subsidies for mentally ill sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1673</link>
<description>A House division held over a bill to provide additional funding to help mentally ill people find housing.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Natural resources asset preservation and replacement sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1674</link>
<description>Money for asset preservation could be given to the Department of Natural Resources.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Timber falls, literally, figuratively</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1675</link>
<description>The DNR Forestry Division is seeking financial help to make up for money taken to help solve the state's budget.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Early school start denied</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1664</link>
<description>A House committee rejected a bill that would allow pre-Labor Day school starts.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lessard Council reimbursement approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1665</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a plan to reimburse members of the Lessard Outdoor Heritage Council who have incurred expenses since they began meeting last December.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>University of Minnesota regents elected</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1666</link>
<description>In a joint session, the House and Senate elected four individuals to serve on the University of Minnesota Board of Regents.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Agriculture data public or private?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1667</link>
<description>Some agricultural study information could become protected under the Data Practices Act.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Disclosure of energy use considered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1668</link>
<description>An energy use disclosure study and report could be required for residential building owners, purchasers and renters.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Mandates could be reduced</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1659</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that could reduce some education mandates.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New mining fees proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1660</link>
<description>New or increased fees are being proposed for easements and mining 
operations in the state.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Wrong name righted</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1661</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would correct the grantee for a parks appropriation.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Construction moratorium extension OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1662</link>
<description>A bill to extend a moratorium on radiation therapy facility construction in certain counties is on its way to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Greenhouse gas reduction goals and strategies approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1663</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would have 
several implications on local government regarding land use regulations.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Charter school reform approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1654</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill offering the most significant charter school reform in Minnesota since 1991.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Heart disease, stroke prevention dollars sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1655</link>
<description>Proponents for the prevention of heart disease and strokes are requesting $500,000 to fund data collection and other activities associated with the prevention of heart attacks and strokes.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Workers compensation oversight could be improved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1656</link>
<description>A report from the Office of the Legislative Auditor finds some room for improvement in Minnesotas workers compensation system.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Learning to drive online</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1657</link>
<description>A House division gave its approval to a bill that would allow teens to take part of their driver's training online.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>PUC may require excess fee refunds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1658</link>
<description>The Public Utilities Commission could require repayment when utility and 
telephone companies overcharge ratepayers.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Juvenile drug court funding sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1650</link>
<description>Money paid by drug offenders could better help youth stay away from illegal substances.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Police exam eligibility change</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1651</link>
<description>Some military police veterans could need one more background requirement before taking the test to become state-licensed police officers.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Stimulus funds trim budget deficit to $4.57 billion</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1652</link>
<description>The February Forecast predicts a $6.4 billion state budget deficit, but that will be reduced by $1.8 billion thanks to federal stimulus dollars.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>University of Minnesota regent candidates selected</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1653</link>
<description>A joint House and Senate committee recommended four 
candidates for the open seats on the University of Minnesotas Board of Regents.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Republicans seek action on budget</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1645</link>
<description>In a press conference, House and Senate Republican leaders 
criticized DFLers for what they say is a lack of ideas for solving the states 
projected budget deficit.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 2 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Decoys dominate discussion</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1646</link>
<description>Modifications to duck decoy use was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 2 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Thermal energy policy clears first hurdle</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1647</link>
<description>A policy for encouraging the use of solar energy and vegetation to produce thermal energy for heating buildings was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 2 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fighting climate change through smarter development</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1648</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill that seeks to mitigate climate change by modifying local land use and development practices.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 2 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Defeated last week, sex offender site access bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1649</link>
<description>A bill to prohibit sexual predators access to certain computer sites cleared a House committee that defeated it last week.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 2 Mar 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New predatory offender felony crime</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1641</link>
<description>A felony crime could be created for repeated “no contact” sex or predatory offenses.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Leaders await forecast, seek fairness in budget plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1642</link>
<description>House leaders reflected on town hall meetings; look ahead to forecast issues.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Courier drivers employee status</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1643</link>
<description>Package delivery and trucking companies could be required to reclassify drivers now considered independent contractors.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Domestic fatality team funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1644</link>
<description>What began as a pilot project in one judicial district could become permanent across the state.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>U of M regent candidates reviewed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1640</link>
<description>Nine candidates for the University of Minnesotas Board of Regents had their first job interview with lawmakers.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sex offender site access bill defeated</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1633</link>
<description>A bill to prohibit sexual predators access to certain computer sites failed to clear a House committee, but its sponsor said the bill is not dead.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Expert calls for smarter economic growth strategies</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1634</link>
<description>An expert from the University of Minnesota challenged 
lawmakers to rethink how the state promotes economic development.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Going fast to pass a vehicle</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1635</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would let drivers speed to pass slower vehicles.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Green acres extension offered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1636</link>
<description>Green Acres enrollees could get an extra year to withdraw property from the program.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Rest area usage prohibitions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1637</link>
<description>A bill to prohibit certain acts at a rest stop received division approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Nuclear savings are wasteful buildup</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1638</link>
<description>A bill to help the state get back money it paid for disposal of high-level radioactive waste received division approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Helping districts in dire straits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1639</link>
<description>Three bills to help financially challenged school districts were held over by the House division for possible omnibus bill inclusion.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No longer Department of Finance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1627</link>
<description>A bill approved by a House committee would make “Minnesota Management and Budget” an official state agency name.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New measures to stop school bullies</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1628</link>
<description>A bill heard by a House committee would put teeth into schools anti-bullying 
policies.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public defender monetary threshold</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1629</link>
<description>The monetary threshold to receive the services of a public defender could change.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cuts to Challenge Fund questioned</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1630</link>
<description>A House division said a 69 percent proposed reduction to the Housing Challenge 
Fund should not be part of the governor's budget.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Expanding education council</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1631</link>
<description>A proposal to add four legislators to the states P-16 partnership and expand its scope received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Higher education capital projects approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1632</link>
<description>A House division approved a series of bonding requests for the University of Minnesota and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>MINNCOR gets positive review</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1622</link>
<description>A prison industry received a mostly positive audit report from the Office of the Legislative Auditor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>General Fund balance exemption</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1623</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill needed to spend federal stimulus money in the upcoming biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Spending transportation stimulus dollars</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1624</link>
<description>The call has gone out for bids on $50 million in stimulus-funded transportation projects.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New Vikings stadium looks to be a non-starter</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1625</link>
<description>A proposal to finance a new Minnesota Vikings stadium with 
public money was met with a chilly reception from members of a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge compensation fund modifications</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1626</link>
<description>Awaiting the governor's signature is a bill to modify the compensation process for survivors of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill to make referendum recalls more difficult approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1617</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill designed to make it more difficult to recall an operating referendum for a school district.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill to prohibit deceptive names defeated</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1618</link>
<description>A House committee voted against a proposal to ban the use 
of “deceptive names” in political campaigns.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Phy ed grad requirement approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1619</link>
<description>Students entering ninth grade next fall could be required to earn one-half credit in physical education in order to graduate from high school.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Federal tax conformity bill OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1620</link>
<description>A bill that would conform Minnesota with most federal tax changes enacted since last February received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Focus on teacher background checks</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1621</link>
<description>School boards or administrators may be required to get information about any disciplinary action taken against a prospective teacher.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill to allow cities to require resident hiring moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1609</link>
<description>A bill designed to encourage cities to hire their own 
residents for public works projects cleared another committee hurdle.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Covering unexpected revenue shortfalls</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1610</link>
<description>Local units of government could have another tool to use in this time of economic distress.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Staying in school through age 18</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1611</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would raise the upper compulsory school attendance age from 16 to 18.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Additional aid to a certain city</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1612</link>
<description>One city feeling the crunch of local government aid cuts could get some extra relief.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Green jobs stimulus bill laid over</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1613</link>
<description>Members of a House division will wait until Tuesday to act 
on a bill that would spend federal stimulus dollars on energy conservation projects.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Development credit transfer bank proposal approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1614</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would allow local 
governments to set up a “transfer of development credits bank.”</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Stimulus details sketchy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1615</link>
<description>A House leader said Gov. Tim Pawlentys biennial budget will need an adjustment, or nearly a complete do-over.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee approves medical marijuana bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1616</link>
<description>A House committee voted 9-6 to approve a bill that would allow doctors to prescribe marijuana for medicinal purposes.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fee increase proposal criticized</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1606</link>
<description>Members of a House division criticized a proposal to 
increase fees on certain occupational and commercial licenses.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Green jobs stimulus bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1607</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill that would lay the 
groundwork for spending federal stimulus dollars on energy efficiency projects.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Union Depot funding sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1608</link>
<description>Final state funding is being requested for a project that could make an historic St. Paul building a hub of multimodal activity.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Covering projected shortfalls</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1602</link>
<description>Deficiency funding for a pair of state departments awaits action by the full House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Boiler regulation exception passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1603</link>
<description>A Duluth-specific bill relating to maintenance of steam-producing boilers received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Removing bow and gun case requirements</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1604</link>
<description>Hunters may be allowed to have an uncased, albeit unloaded, weapon in their motor vehicle.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Encouraging cities to hire their own residents</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1605</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill designed to encourage cities to hire their own residents for public works projects.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Homestead tax break extended</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1600</link>
<description>A surviving spouse could see a homestead tax break extended.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>DFL, Republican leaders discuss plans</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1601</link>
<description>DFL and Republican House leaders discuss plans for the week ahead and beyond.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Voter ID bill voted down</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1597</link>
<description>Members of a House committee voted 11-8 not to approve a bill that would require voters to present a photo ID on Election Day.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Financial woes extend to private colleges</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1598</link>
<description>Officials from private colleges told lawmakers that public 
universities arent the only schools that have been hit hard by the economy.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Careless driving penalty increase</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1599</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would increase the penalty for careless driving that results in the death of another person.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Recruiting mid-career professionals to the classroom</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1591</link>
<description>A proposal by Gov. Tim Pawlenty to recruit mid-career professionals to teach math and science was heard by members of a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping youngsters safe in a vehicle</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1592</link>
<description>Investing less than the cost of a tank of gas could better ensure a child has every opportunity afforded them.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Energy stimulus bill gets division approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1593</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that establishes key principles for the use of the federal stimulus funds in one area.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Floor debate time limit?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1594</link>
<description>Among the proposed changes to House rules would be a time limit on floor debate.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Looking everywhere for money</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1595</link>
<description>Reattaching a St. Paul airport to the city and school district tax bases could give the state a little more money to balance its budget.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sexually transmitted infections on the rise</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1596</link>
<description>Members of a House committee learned that rates of sexually transmitted infections in Minnesota are rising at an alarming rate.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Heritage council reimbursement OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1584</link>
<description>Proposed legislation designed to reimburse members of the Lessard Outdoor 
Heritage Council for expenses was approved by a divided House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Less predator communication</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1585</link>
<description>A bill to protect minors from sexual predators wash held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sex offenders off social sites</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1586</link>
<description>A bill prohibiting social networking site access and usage by any registered sex 
offender received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tougher K-12 licensing standards</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1587</link>
<description>A plan to tighten K-12 teacher licensure standards received mixed reviews from members of a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Removing plastic from yard waste</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1588</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would tighten rules about yard waste disposal.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Expanding public trails</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1589</link>
<description>A House committee approved two bills for state trail development in southern 
Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Statewide fraud prevention program</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1590</link>
<description>State investigators would assume full responsibility for 
fraud prevention among public assistance recipients, according to a plan shared with a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>One less mandate on local governments</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1582</link>
<description>Local governments would have one less mandate to worry 
about under a bill approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 9 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deer hunt changes proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1583</link>
<description>A pair of bills aimed at deer hunters were held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 9 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Building Minnesotas information infrastructure</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1581</link>
<description>A statewide broadband availability mapping survey will help build the states information infrastructure and create fuller access to communications technology.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 6 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pre-Labor Day school start</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1574</link>
<description>School districts could have more local control over their calendar year.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee deadlines get House OK</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1575</link>
<description>House approval was given to the 2009 committee deadlines.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reimbursement bill met with skepticism</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1576</link>
<description>Legislation designed to reimburse members of the Lessard Outdoor Heritage Council for expenses incurred since they began meeting was hotly debated by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Retaining operating levy authority</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1577</link>
<description>The percent of voters needed to start the process of revoking or reducing an operating referendum may increase.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Mental health 911 assistance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1578</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would add mental health crisis teams to the list of emergency 911 responders.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Death record replacement required</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1579</link>
<description>An incorrect cause of death information is the push behind Ryans Vital Record Rights Act.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Mighty Dog bill advances</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1580</link>
<description>The so-called Mighty Dog bill got the approval of a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 5 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee approves Iran divestiture bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1570</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would require the 
state to divest holdings in certain companies active in Iran.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee deadlines nearly set</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1571</link>
<description>Legislators are likely going to have about three weeks from the release of the February Forecast to the first committee deadline.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Type III bus driver qualifications</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1572</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would modify Type III school bus driver qualifications.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Corporate tax cut concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1573</link>
<description>Cutting the corporate franchise tax when the state faces a deficit might not be the right way to go this year, according to some committee members.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 4 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No more education as usual</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1565</link>
<description>The jury is still out on whether changes in teaching and assessment are helping to close the racial achievement gap.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax timing is everything</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1566</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would help tax filers this year.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>MnSCU students, faculty warn against budget cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1567</link>
<description>MnSCU students and faculty said higher student debt and diminished academic programs would result from the governors proposed budget cuts.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Corporate tax cut proposal criticized</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1568</link>
<description>Some members of a House division questioned the wisdom of Gov. Tim Pawlenty's proposal to cut corporate taxes.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping children from chemicals</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1569</link>
<description>Protecting children from potentially toxic chemicals in products they use is the intent of a bill heard by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increasing the odds to hunt some game</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1564</link>
<description>Game and fish lottery and drawing preferences could be expanded for service members.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 2 Feb 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Domestic Abuse Month designation sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1562</link>
<description>An issue few people like to talk about could get a greater focus.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Being informed about crime</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1563</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would help all citizens receive crime alerts.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unemployment extension bill becomes law</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1556</link>
<description>A new law will extend unemployment benefits to thousands of Minnesotans.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Windshield mounting of GPS gains support</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1557</link>
<description>Motorists are one step closer to being able to mount Global Positioning 
Systems on their windshields.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Securing stimulus funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1558</link>
<description>State leaders got a warning from a man with some pull in our nation's capital.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bond regulation concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1559</link>
<description>Public entities receiving proceeds from general obligation 
bonds havent necessarily been following the rules.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>MnSCU officials brace for budget cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1560</link>
<description>MnSCU officials described how the system might adapt to the governors proposed budget cuts.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislators see forest through the trees</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1561</link>
<description>How nurseries are managed and funded was discussed between DNR directors and members of a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Putting high school students on career paths</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1550</link>
<description>Members of a House division debated whether high school 
students should be required to develop a plan for their future careers.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Water sustainability concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1551</link>
<description>A pair of House divisions were told that Minnesota needs a futuristic view about our water.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Housing agency presents proposed budget</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1552</link>
<description>A program to help fund new affordable home construction is getting cut.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No clear benefits to high stakes tests</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1553</link>
<description>States often set high educational standards, but back off when failure rates increase.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Priorities for property taxes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1554</link>
<description>Three working groups have been formed to look at the state's property tax system.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unclaimed financial property available</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1555</link>
<description>Of the $50.5 million in unclaimed financial property turned over to the Department of Commerce last year, just $18.4 million was claimed by rightful owners.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Two bills advance on Green Acres</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1546</link>
<description>Changes to the Green Acres tax benefit program could be repealed or fixed quickly now that two bills were approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Balancing accountability and capacity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1547</link>
<description>A House committee heard about setting a high academic bar and why all their eggs shouldnt be put in one high-stakes assessment basket.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governor proposes 2.2 percent budget cut</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1548</link>
<description>The governor proposed to solve the states projected $4.8 billion deficit with budget cuts, accounting shifts, federal stimulus funds and “tobacco appropriation bonds.”</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Colorectal cancer screening funds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1549</link>
<description>Colorectal act could put state in line for federal funds for screening.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Charter school changes?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1542</link>
<description>A pair of legislators plan to propose a new charter school moratorium until other changes are made.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Picture ID may be needed to vote</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1543</link>
<description>People wishing to cast ballots may be required to have a photo identification.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Taylors Falls seeks special tax status</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1544</link>
<description>The city of Taylors Falls is having trouble competing with tax incentives in 
neighboring Wisconsin, and might get help from the Legislature.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Jackson County office change proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1545</link>
<description>Jackson County may soon have an appointed, rather than elected, auditor-treasurer.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Plan raises eyebrows, not corn</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1536</link>
<description>A conservation plan presentation raised a few eyebrows among legislators from agricultural and wetland districts.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No green light for Green Acres</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1537</link>
<description>Tempers flared on the House Floor over changes in 2008 to the Green Acres 
tax benefit program.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>University of Minnesota officials talk budget cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1538</link>
<description>University of Minnesota officials warned members of a House division that budget cuts and tuition caps could be devastating to the institution.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Learning about education options</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1539</link>
<description>A House education division heard about topics they will likely wrestle with.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lawmakers debate new accountability measures</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1540</link>
<description>Lawmakers and state officials debated whether Minnesota Management and Budget should take a more active role in promoting fiscal accountability in state agencies.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping some jobs in the state</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1541</link>
<description>It may not be the best deal Minnesota could get, but an airline agreement will still keep thousands of jobs in the state.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge compensation fund modifications</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1532</link>
<description>What was deemed a technical cleanup bill brought back openness issues.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Housing trends show bleak outlook</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1533</link>
<description>A House division learned how bad the state's housing situation has become.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Right recipient could now make way for a new park and trail</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1534</link>
<description>A correction to last year's bonding law could pave the way for a new park and trail.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Going after state defrauders</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1535</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would provide an assist in going after people defrauding the state.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Helping those with FASD</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1528</link>
<description>An invisible disease often goes untreated, but changes could be forthcoming.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax fix stirs up members</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1529</link>
<description>Heads butted during discussion of a bill that would retroactively correct a mistake in the 2008 tax bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Whats the plan?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1530</link>
<description>The chairman of a House division questioned why the state 
has no comprehensive economic development plan.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Aviators want money back</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1531</link>
<description>Aviators want money returned that they believe was hijacked last May.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Wanting our share of the stimulus</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1527</link>
<description>The House speaker doesnt want Minnesota to end up on the short-end of any federal stimulus money.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Assessment model shows promise</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1522</link>
<description>A new assessment model shows promise in helping to close the achievement gap.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Paying for short-term offenders</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1523</link>
<description>Parties on both sides of an issue hope a long-term solution can be found in a short time.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unemployment benefits extension bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1524</link>
<description>Two more House divisions approved a bill that would extend unemployment benefits to an estimated 3,000 Minnesotans.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Urging togetherness, reform</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1525</link>
<description>With a nearly $5 billion deficit facing the state, Gov. Tim Pawlenty urged 
bipartisan teamwork in his State of the State address.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fish study funding sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1526</link>
<description>Money is being sought to study various chemicals in rivers and lakes and their affect on the endocrine systems of fish.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State official predicts floundering labor market in 2009</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1515</link>
<description>Minnesota stands to lose 61,000 jobs and faces record unemployment insurance claims in 2009, a state official predicted.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget recommendations given</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1516</link>
<description>Minnesota needs to change the way it handles its money if it wants to stop the roller coaster of deficits and surpluses.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No fries with that</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1517</link>
<description>Minnesotans could help themselves to lower health care costs.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Vets home audit findings called serious</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1518</link>
<description>An auditor's report showed problems at a veteran's home, but they are being resolved.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unemployed could see their benefits extended</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1519</link>
<description>Approximately 3,000 of the states unemployed people could soon be eligible for an extension of their unemployment benefits.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unemployed could qualify for short-term health care coverage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1520</link>
<description>Health care coverage could be provided for some unemployed Minnesotans.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Local government fraud increase</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1521</link>
<description>The state auditors office saw an uptick in fraud cases involving local governments last year, and warned that more might be coming.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Monetary, accountability concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1511</link>
<description>A House committee was given an overview of 2008 findings by the Office of the Legislative Auditor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Potential savings sent to committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1512</link>
<description>A traditionally simple maneuver again provided some early divisiveness about acting on potential cost-saving measures.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Education reform bill introduced</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1513</link>
<description>A plan to reform the state's K-12 education system has been introduced.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax refresher course</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1514</link>
<description>The first House Taxes Committee meeting was the first of many overviews.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public input will be wanted</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1510</link>
<description>The House speaker reaffirmed that public participation will be sought on balancing the state's budget.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Seifert warns of health and human services cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1508</link>
<description>House Minority Leader Marty Seifert warned Minnesotans to “brace themselves” for massive state budget cuts, particularly to health and human services programs.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>K-12 policy priorities are offered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1509</link>
<description>Members have differing views on the most important policy issues facing Minnesota schools.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bioscience division announces focus on workforce development</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1506</link>
<description>Members of the House division devoted to bioscience industries announced plans to focus on developing the states high-tech workforce.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax reform talk is overshadowed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1507</link>
<description>Members of a House division would like to provide tax relief, but they dont know how to do that.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislators are back at work</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1505</link>
<description>The 2009 session kicked off with a largely ceremonial first day.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 Jan 2009 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Unallotment plan announced</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1504</link>
<description>Local units of government are not taking as big an unallotment hit as they feared.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Poverty recommendations not yet ready</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1502</link>
<description>Suggestions on eliminating poverty in the state have been delayed.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Shortfall planning is sketchy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1503</link>
<description>State agencies appear to have few concrete plans about dealing with the current biennial shortfall, although some steps have been taken.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Different ideas for same solution</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1501</link>
<description>Each legislative body has a different idea of how to tackle the states short-term deficit.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Local officials express need for LGA</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1500</link>
<description>Officials from cities, counties and organizations representing the entities said they could be in dire straits without the expected payment of Local Government Aid.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Leaders reaffirm budget positions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1499</link>
<description>Less than a week after the states grim budget forecast was announced, 
state leaders reiterated their positions.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Information access could determine resolution speed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1497</link>
<description>Solutions to a $426 million budget shortfall for the remaining fiscal year will hopefully come sooner than later.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House committee structure announced</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1498</link>
<description>House leadership has announced a smaller committee structure for the 2009-2010 
biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lawmakers, governor react to nearly $5.3 billion deficit projection</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1496</link>
<description>Legislators on both sides of the aisle said massive changes would be needed in anticipation of a historic $4.8 billion biennial budget deficit.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Improving mathematical numbers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1494</link>
<description>Plans to address mathematically challenged Minnesota students could be offered early in 2009.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Minnesota lawmakers eye Wisconsin health care reforms</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1495</link>
<description>Minnesota lawmakers looking to expand health care access might be able to learn a few things from Wisconsin, members of a legislative commission learned.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 Dec 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Wakota Bridge project completion moved up</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1493</link>
<description>Commuters in the southeast portion of the Twin Cities metropolitan area could get some relief a little sooner.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>States options limited in Northwest-Delta merger</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1492</link>
<description>Lawmakers may have limited options to prevent the closing of Northwest Airlines headquarters in Minnesota, members of a House committee learned.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge safety reassurances</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1491</link>
<description>Inspections have found that none of the 25 truss bridges in the MnDOT system have deficiencies similar to that of the Interstate 35W bridge.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Central Corridor creates entrance change</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1490</link>
<description>The Central Corridor route is expected to change access to the north side of the State Capitol.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Seifert reacts to election results</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1488</link>
<description>House Minority Leader Marty Seifert (R-Marshall) sees 
disappointment but also some relief after another round of GOP losses in the 
House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Nov 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Still far ahead, looking for togetherness</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1489</link>
<description>House DFLers didnt get a supermajority of seats, but election results still gave them reason to smile.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Nov 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Your opinions wanted</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1487</link>
<description>Help us improve Session Daily.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cost concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1486</link>
<description>Minnesota is in the middle of the country when it comes to housing cost burden, but problems are only worsening.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 6 Oct 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Driver's license security</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1485</link>
<description>A plan designed to enhance drivers license security received commission approval.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>DNR spending criticized</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1484</link>
<description>The Department of Natural Resources inappropriately spent $300,000 in taxpayer money on a private game warden conference, according to the legislative auditor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Sep 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Consequence concerns considered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1482</link>
<description>Too many committees makes following legislation difficult, and can provide for unintended consequences.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Improving floor activity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1480</link>
<description>What happens on the House floor is not perfect, but members are trying to make it better for all parties.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>LCCMR members briefed on conservation plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1479</link>
<description>Members of a legislative commission were briefed on a 
sweeping plan to protect and restore the state's environment and natural 
habitat.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 8 Jul 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Department response offered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1478</link>
<description>Transportation Department officials responded to a report that criticized department actions before the Interstate 35W bridge collapse.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Too many committees, not enough public input</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1477</link>
<description>A House committee was told that a cumbersome committee structure is a barrier to public participation and process transparency.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge program proffered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1476</link>
<description>The Department of Transportation plans to repair or replace 120 trunk highway bridges in the next decade.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Retooling the process</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1475</link>
<description>Frustration leads to calls for change in how the House does business.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge collapse concerns raised</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1474</link>
<description>A report questions some of the Transportation Departments happenings before the collapse of the Interstate 35W bridge.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget agreement OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1468</link>
<description>A plan to resolve the states projected biennial budget deficit was approved by the House and Senate.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill phase II part of end-of-session agreement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1469</link>
<description>Central Corridor, a new state park and veterans facilities back on the table.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Agreement reached before clock hits midnight</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1470</link>
<description>A session the House speaker calls the most productive in a "long, long time" is over.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A step torwards property tax reform</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1471</link>
<description>One piece in resolving the states projected $935 million biennial deficit was a negotiated tax bill.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>LCCMR bill sent to governor's desk</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1472</link>
<description>A bill that would appropriate $23.4 million for a variety 
of environment and natural resources projects is on its way to the governor's 
desk.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus game and fish bill sent to governor's desk</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1473</link>
<description>The omnibus game, fish and lands bill is on its way to the governor's desk.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 18 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Still waiting on negotiations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1465</link>
<description>Budget bill conferees met briefly, but must wait longer before action can be taken.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 17 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smoking ban stays</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1466</link>
<description>An attempt to overturn the state smoking ban was snuffed out by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 17 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>LCCMR bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1467</link>
<description>The House passed a bill that would appropriate $23.4 million for a variety of environment and natural resources projects, but the Senate did not concur.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 17 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>LCCMR bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1462</link>
<description>Two House committees approved a bill that would authorize nearly $23 million worth of environment and natural resources projects.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Policy bill gets approval on second try</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1463</link>
<description>An omnibus transportation policy bill cleared an important speed bump en route to the checkered flag.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Responsible family life and sexuality education programs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1464</link>
<description>The characteristics of a responsible family life and sexuality education program were approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Staggered Met Council terms</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1458</link>
<description>Staggered terms for the Metropolitan Council were approved by the House and Senate and now await action by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House approves newborn screening</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1459</link>
<description>Changes to newborn screening laws may still happen.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transportation policy plan back on track</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1460</link>
<description>After hitting a major pothole in the House, an updated omnibus transportation policy bill may have smoother travels.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Urging nonmotorized transportation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1461</link>
<description>A committee established by the Transportation Department could be renamed and look at more than just vehicular needs.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Structure safety plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1481</link>
<description>Two days after the latest bridge incident in Minnesota, a quintet of legislators unveiled a plan to improve safety of such structures throughout the state.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reform possibilities forwarded</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1483</link>
<description>Recommendations sent forth by a House committee are intended to improve the legislative process, even if members couldnt agree on a process to submit the suggestions.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House and Senate pass stand-alone education finance bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1456</link>
<description>After negotiations on the omnibus supplemental budget bill broke down earlier in the day, the House and Senate approved a stand-alone education finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>One more time</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1457</link>
<description>With budget negotiations breaking down, legislative leaders want to give reaching an agreement one more try.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Newborn screening bill back to committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1450</link>
<description>Changes to newborn screening laws have been put on hold.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Citizens council could set legislators pay</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1451</link>
<description>The House voted to put before voters at the November election a question to remove legislators ability to set their own salaries.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Health care policy, sex offender program regulations OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1452</link>
<description>A conference committee report dealing with health care policy provisions and sexual offender program regulations was approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Three projects ready to hit the road</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1453</link>
<description>A bill approved by the House could be a vehicle for a new state park, Central Corridor funding and veterans home improvements.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>MnDOT engineer requirements</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1454</link>
<description>The prerequisite to be one of the top Department of Transportation officials could change.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Health care reform?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1455</link>
<description>The House and Senate approved a health care reform conference committee report.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>'Parting gift' could be more funding for capital investment</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1445</link>
<description>The House minority leader believes end-of-session negotiations are close, and that human services is the key unresolved issue.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Remaining optimistic about a deal</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1446</link>
<description>House leaders said reaching a budget deal with the governor is "doable."</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tough questions on DNR conference spending</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1447</link>
<description>State officials faced some tough questioning from lawmakers concerned about $383,000 in state funds used to fund a conservation officer conference.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Riding the Central Corridor rail</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1448</link>
<description>New $70 million proposal would put light rail project back on line.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deal reached on cap-and-trade bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1449</link>
<description>Members of a conference committee reached a deal on the cap-and-trade bill — and negotiators for regional cap-and-trade talks will get a sneak peek before it's signed.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Victim compensation plan signed into law</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1441</link>
<description>A new law will provide some relief to survivors and victims of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Game, fish and lands policy bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1442</link>
<description>Fishing with two lines and hunting at younger ages are two of the changes proposed in the omnibus game, fish and lands policy bill passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Urban partnership agreements authorized</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1443</link>
<description>Policy for a plan to ease congestion in the southern Twin Cities suburbs is en route to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House says no to primary seat belts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1444</link>
<description>An agreement designed to save lives and prevent injury did not receive House approval after more than an hour of sometimes emotional debate.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Stem cell policy proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1437</link>
<description>A bill to potentially further stem cell research in the state was approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Policy bill hits speed bump</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1438</link>
<description>Hours before its report was expected to be acted upon by the House, a Transportation Policy Conference Committee was making changes.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Collegiate provisions passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1439</link>
<description>An omnibus higher education policy bill received House and Senate approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ag and veterans policy bill gets approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1440</link>
<description>An unlikely mix of veterans and agriculture provisions is heading to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conferees reach deal on budget</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1433</link>
<description>The Omnibus Supplemental Budget Bill Conference Committee finished its work, but didnt rule out meeting again.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>'Clean Car' bill cruises to House floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1434</link>
<description>The California vehicle emissions standards bill, also known as the &quot;Clean Car&quot; bill, is headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Citizens council could set legislators pay</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1435</link>
<description>Legislators may no longer get to set their own salaries.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping Minnesotans safe in vehicles</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1436</link>
<description>Conferees agreed to an omnibus transportation policy bill containing three key safety initiatives.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Agreement reached on energy omnibus bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1429</link>
<description>After making mostly technical changes, House and Senate conferees reached an agreement on the omnibus energy policy bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Delta president meets with committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1430</link>
<description>The merger of Delta and Northwest airlines will make each company stronger, according to the Delta president.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gubernatorial concerns derail conference committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1431</link>
<description>Transportation policy conferees got close to finalizing a 2008 plan, but a governor's alleged threat delayed their work.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Provisions removed from ed bill pass House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1432</link>
<description>Provisions removed from the omnibus education policy bill were passed separately by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Everybody buckle up</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1428</link>
<description>Not wearing a seat belt could become a primary offense.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 3 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deal reached on 35W bridge victims' compensation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1426</link>
<description>Relief is finally on the way for victims of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse after House and Senate negotiators reached an agreement on a compensation plan.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 2 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Optimsim abounds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1427</link>
<description>With a little more than two weeks to go before they must adjourn, House leaders said they were ready to compromise with the governor and pass bills through the House.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 2 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House approves minimum wage increase</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1421</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would increase the state's minimum wage.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>License reinstatement fee uniformity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1422</link>
<description>A juvenile driver's license $30 fee imposed following revocation could be reinstated.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Toxic chemical ban passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1423</link>
<description>The House passed a bill that would phase out a toxic fire-retardant chemical by 2010.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Trust fund land management</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1424</link>
<description>The Department of Natural Resources could be held to a higher standard when it comes to lands it manages to benefit schools.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Whistleblower protection extended</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1425</link>
<description>Whistleblower protection would be extended to executive branch employees, under a bill receiving House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 May 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Peak oil resolution passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1417</link>
<description>The House approved a resolution recognizing the "unprecedented challenge" of peak oil and asking Gov. Tim Pawlenty to prepare a response plan.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Changes in early childhood teaching requirements</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1418</link>
<description>A small change in state law could make a big difference for early childhood programs in rural parts of the state.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislative Energy Commission bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1419</link>
<description>The Legislative Electric Energy Task Force would be abolished and reorganized as the Legislative Energy Commission under a bill passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Mitigation of transportation construction impacts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1420</link>
<description>What its House sponsor termed, “a real good bill for small business” is on its way to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bills back in circulation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1414</link>
<description>Three provisions removed from the omnibus education policy bill Monday are back as part of another bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>'Clean Car' clears another hurdle</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1415</link>
<description>The bill to adopt California's 'Clean Car' vehicle emission standards for Minnesota was approved by the House Finance Committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Proposals push back on Northwest</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1416</link>
<description>Two bills receiving committee approval would ensure the Metropolitan Airports Commission does everything in its power to get repaid by Northwest Airlines.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House tax plan released</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1411</link>
<description>After months of debate, the House Taxes Committee unveiled its omnibus tax bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Renewable energy definition expanded</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1412</link>
<description>The House passed a bill that would expand the definition of renewable energy technologies to include biofuels made from algae.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Child care assistance modifications</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1413</link>
<description>Family care providers may have to comply with a few new regulations.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Repealing the corporate franchise tax</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1408</link>
<description>In light of the recent proposed merger between Northwest and Delta airlines, lawmakers have proposed a way to get Delta to fly into Minnesota and stay here.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget volley – round 2</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1409</link>
<description>House and Senate ask for bonding of Central Corridor project and new veterans home.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping jobs in the state, budget concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1410</link>
<description>House Republicans commented on the budget negotiations and a plan to keep businesses in the state.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conferees differ in dollars, inflation rates</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1405</link>
<description>Differing health care inflation rates and how to spend General Fund dollars are keeping the Health Care Reform Conference Committee at odds.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transportation Policy II is approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1406</link>
<description>With the 2007 transportation policy bill awaiting gubernatorial action, the 2008 version received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More races to watch</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1407</link>
<description>Running Aces Harness Park may be able to show more on its television screens than whats racing on its track.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Military reservist loans, worker benefits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1402</link>
<description>House approval was given to a plan to help business impacted by someone called to active service, and another to help veterans struggling to find work.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus energy policy bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1403</link>
<description>The House passed an omnibus energy policy bill that would boost solar and wind power and tighten greenhouse gas regulations.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cap-and-trade bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1404</link>
<description>The House passed a bill that would pave the way for the 
adoption of a regional cap-and-trade system to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Star Lake and River program proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1397</link>
<description>A bill that would allow a state board to designate certain water bodies "Star Lake" or "Star River" is headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee to look at impact of NWA/Delta merger</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1398</link>
<description>A pair of committee hearings are planned to examine the impact of the merger between Northwest and Delta airlines.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Nursing home transfer</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1399</link>
<description>Steele County may be able to lease, sell or transfer a county nursing home to a nonprofit corporation.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Environment and energy budget proposals discussed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1400</link>
<description>A joint House and Senate working group discussed differences in the omnibus supplemental budget bill's environment and energy provisions.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Mall of America expansion concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1401</link>
<description>A plan to help fund a Mall of America expansion was scrutinized by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New transportation commissioner named</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1393</link>
<description>Tom Sorel has been picked to be the states new transportation commissioner.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Property tax proposal proffered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1394</link>
<description>DFL leaders announced a plan to restructure the Homestead Credit State Refund.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ticket seller bullies given notice</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1395</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would ban software used to get to the front of the line for a ticket onsale.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tougher teacher hiring standards</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1396</link>
<description>A bill passed by the House could make it harder for teachers with past sexual misconduct to slip through the cracks.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Restrictions on toxic chemical approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1389</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would phase out a 
toxic fire-retardant chemical by 2010.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping predators away from kids on the Internet</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1390</link>
<description>Predatory offenders may have more places to stay away from.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governors budget response could come Monday</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1391</link>
<description>Winning the coin toss, Republicans could put first efforts 
toward budget agreement on the table next week.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Merger prompts rural air access concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1392</link>
<description>The House leader said the Legislature is in a wait-and-see mode until more airline merger details surface.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislators discuss more nuclear power</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1384</link>
<description>Members of two House committees heard testimony on the pros and cons of lifting the state's moratorium on new nuclear power plants.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Property rights concerns addressed in proposal to eradicate deer</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1385</link>
<description>A controversial provision to eradicate the deer population didnt make it to the committee table.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Opening up to Cuba</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1386</link>
<description>The Legislature would like the president and Congress to ease up on Cuba.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Longer Orders for Protection and restraining orders</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1387</link>
<description>An Order for Protection or harassment order could be issued for up to 50 years.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Money for bovine TB on the fast-track</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1388</link>
<description>The developing bovine tuberculosis problem in northwestern Minnesota received quick attention from the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Appointive county positions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1380</link>
<description>The offices of auditor and treasurer in Houston County, 
and the auditor-treasurer in Rock County, could become appointive.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Met Council term changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1381</link>
<description>Legislation to re-institute staggered terms for members of the Metropolitan Council was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Confusion or consensus?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1382</link>
<description>Mixed messages on one issue were the result of legislative leaders meeting with Gov. Tim Pawlenty.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus data practices provisions modification</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1383</link>
<description>The omnibus data practices bill was amended before receiving House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Colorectal screening for those who cant afford it</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1376</link>
<description>A colorectal screening program for the uninsured and underinsured could be created.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus energy bill takes shape</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1377</link>
<description>A House committee approved an omnibus energy policy bill with provisions designed to boost renewable power and monitor greenhouse gas emissions.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Research and development tax credits proffered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1378</link>
<description>A plan to expand the states research and development tax credits was held over by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Separating policy from finance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1379</link>
<description>A working group charged with devising recommendations for a conference committee has completed its work.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Policy provision inclusions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1372</link>
<description>The amount of policy in the omnibus deficit-reduction bill is likely to be much less than the House included in its bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State-local land exchanges expedited</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1373</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would make it easier 
for the state and local governments to exchange land.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deputy registrar OK to move</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1374</link>
<description>On its way to the governor is a bill to provide a variance for a deputy registrar office.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>First transportation policy bill gets approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1375</link>
<description>A report that screeched to a halt in 2007, has been slightly changed and given a green light.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Seifert week in review, preview</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1370</link>
<description>With bonding done and budget talks beginning, the House minority leader thinks session can end early.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Speaker remains committed to Central Corridor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1371</link>
<description>House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher said the vetoed Central Corridor project could show up as part of the final budget compromise.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Studying Iron Range miners health</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1368</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would help fund a mesothelioma study.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Changing the funding formula</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1369</link>
<description>A House division heard a plan to modify the school finance system and create a new education funding framework.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus game and fish bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1363</link>
<description>A House committee approved the omnibus game and fish bill after making a few minor changes.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 9 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Special golf tournament permits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1364</link>
<description>Temporary vehicle permits could be issued for the 2008 U.S. Womens Open.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 9 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Small business construction awareness assistance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1365</link>
<description>A bill to improve communication with small businesses about transportation projects received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 9 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge collapse study moving forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1366</link>
<description>An investigation into the Department of Transportations role in the Interstate 35W bridge collapse is on schedule.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 9 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Abolish Property Taxes? Really?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1367</link>
<description>An idea to eliminate all property taxes got varied reactions from a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 9 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>JOBZ Program could be tweaked</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1360</link>
<description>A plan to tweak the current JOBZ program and pump millions of 
dollars into the program for expansion has been held over by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 8 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget conferees begin their work</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1361</link>
<description>The omnibus supplemental budget conference committee began its work with a review.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 8 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bars may open later for convention</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1362</link>
<description>It may be easier for Republican 
National Convention attendees to get a drink later in the 
evening.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 8 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill meets veto pen</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1357</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty sliced more than $200 million from the Legislature's bonding bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New funding formula for schools?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1358</link>
<description>A plan to overhaul the states education system has been unveiled.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Possible corporate tax changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1359</link>
<description>Testimony was given on a bill to eliminate all state corporate subsidies, but lower the corporate tax rate.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conteroffer proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1326</link>
<description>The Survivor Fund Compensation Conference Committee mulled an offer from the House at its latest gathering.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deficit-reduction bill debate ends in the wee hours</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1351</link>
<description>After more than 14 hours of debate and 62 amendments, the House passed its deficit-reduction bill at around 2:30 a.m.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Still working towards a compromise</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1352</link>
<description>The I-35W bridge survivors compensation conference committee inched closer to a compromise.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Rotating the Tax Man</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1353</link>
<description>An attempt to shed more light on the process of determining home values was heard by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Air conditioner refrigerant banned</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1354</link>
<description>A bill that would restrict the availability of air conditioner refrigerant for motor vehicles was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Energy-efficient building codes proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1355</link>
<description>A bill that would develop tougher energy efficiency 
standards for newly constructed buildings won committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fixing the Green Acres Program</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1356</link>
<description>A pair of bills to address some report findings about the Green Acres program were held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill gets House approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1350</link>
<description>House and Senate approval was given to a bill that calls for $925 million in general obligation bond spending.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 2 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Checking coaches</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1345</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would require background checks for all 
extracurricular coaches.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Donations to nonprofits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1346</link>
<description>Political subdivisions may be permitted to donate gifts to 
nonprofit organizations.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reporting date change</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1347</link>
<description>County governments could have an additional month to report their budget data to the state auditor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increasing housing help cap</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1348</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would help prevent mortgage foreclosures.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Capital investment bill showdown begins</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1349</link>
<description>The stage has been set for a bonding bill showdown with the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Grants may continue for electronic information services</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1340</link>
<description>Grants may continue indefinitely for electronic information services.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Longer temporary permits proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1341</link>
<description>A bill to help a state entity more efficiently administer 
its license plate program received overwhelming House support.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Boundary adjustment plan OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1342</link>
<description>A bill born out of the work of the Municipal Boundary Adjustment Advisory Task Force received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sviggum gets positive nod from committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1343</link>
<description>Sviggum confirmation now awaits action by the full Senate.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Filling a county vacancy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1344</link>
<description>A public hearing could be required before a county board fills a vacancy by appointment.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Child care changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1336</link>
<description>Licensed and unlicensed family care providers may have to comply with a few new regulations.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Policy bill is coming back</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1337</link>
<description>A bill that screeched to a halt in 2007 has been given a 
green light this year.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Again becoming part of a tax base</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1338</link>
<description>A proposed tax on the St. Paul airport has hit some turbulence.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Auditor to review allegations in attorney generals office</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1339</link>
<description>An investigation into misconduct at the Office of the Attorney General is to occur, even though no vote was taken by a commission.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Paying out claims</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1333</link>
<description>House committee approval was given to the annual claims bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 27 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Acting in "good faith"</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1334</link>
<description>With a little adjustment, the so-called "good faith" legislation received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 27 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Supplemental budget bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1335</link>
<description>The House supplemental budget bill received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 27 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Higher education cuts proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1327</link>
<description>A House plan would reduce collegiate funding, but not as much as the governor requests.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public safety division presents budget cut proposals</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1328</link>
<description>Though not as severe as the governors recommended cuts, proposed reductions to public safety agencies will still have a bite.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding local communities</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1329</link>
<description>A plan to inject $90 million more into Local Government Aid and 
change how the money is divvied out could be modified.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Supplemental budget proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1330</link>
<description>A House division approved the energy, commerce and utilities supplemental budget recommendations.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge survivor conference committee meets</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1331</link>
<description>A conference committee charged with creating a viable I-35W survivor compensation fund met for the first time.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Going against the feds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1332</link>
<description>The state may say no to the federal No Child Left Behind Act.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>School board representation change</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1323</link>
<description>Bloomington could be required to change the way it elects school board members.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Calling a special session</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1324</link>
<description>A special session could be called by more than just the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Heritage finance bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1325</link>
<description>The House Minnesota Heritage Finance Division approved a meager omnibus budget bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Regulating combative sports</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1317</link>
<description>The Minnesota Boxing Commission is on the verge of receiving a major facelift.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Whistleblower protection extension</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1318</link>
<description>Whistleblower protection could be extended to executive branch employees.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax bill takes committee by surprise</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1319</link>
<description>A bill to repeal corporate tax breaks and other things took a House committee by surprise.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Interpreter awareness</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1320</link>
<description>Health care service interpreters could voluntarily join a state roster, under a bill approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Infected cattle buy-out</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1321</link>
<description>The state is moving quickly with measures to help contain bovine tuberculosis.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Contract ratifications</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1322</link>
<description>State labor agreements and compensation plans are one step closer to ratification after receiving House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>High-Speed Broadband Task Force established</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1311</link>
<description>A bill to establish the High-Speed Broadband Task Force is headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Election expenditure limit modification</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1312</link>
<description>Campaign committees for candidates not seeking re-election may be exempted from the current limit on charitable contributions.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Veterans home board oversight</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1313</link>
<description>Held over for possible omnibus bill inclusion is a plan to transfer the governing authority for the Minnesota Veterans Homes.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cleaning up after the housing crash</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1314</link>
<description>Minneapolis may be able to spend increments from its housing replacement districts on activities located outside of the district.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Addressing funding inequities</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1315</link>
<description>School district referendum revenue authority could be repealed.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Teaching responsible family life and sexuality education</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1316</link>
<description>Schools may be permitted to provide responsible family 
life and sexuality education for some students.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 18 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Waiting on an agreement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1307</link>
<description>The capital investment bill is stalled as House and Senate work out spending differences.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Engineer as a deputy commissioner</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1308</link>
<description>House committee approval was given to a bill that would require a licensed professional engineer be a deputy commissioner.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Honoring Vietnam War veterans</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1309</link>
<description>Vietnam veterans who were met with jeers when they returned home from the unpopular war, could get their own day of honor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Privacy and defamation rights extended</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1310</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill to modify personal jurisdiction over foreign corporations.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Not the best reception</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1304</link>
<description>The governors tax recommendation didnt exactly get a rave review in the House Property Tax Relief and Local Sales Tax Division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax-exempt concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1305</link>
<description>Minnesota could become a “dangerously restrictive state” when it comes to applying for nonprofit status.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cap and trade resolution proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1306</link>
<description>A House division approved a resolution designed to give legislators a voice in regional cap-and-trade talks.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Donation age lowered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1301</link>
<description>A bill that would lower the blood donation age to 16 is on its way to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legal system hit with budget cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1302</link>
<description>State court officials said the court system will take a big hit if Gov. Tim Pawlentys recommended cuts go into effect.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Equal access to materials</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1303</link>
<description>Blind and other eligible college students could more quickly get accessible education materials.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Easier overseas voting</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1297</link>
<description>A bill to modify certain procedures and requirements for absentee voting by military and other overseas voters was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pushing for more solar</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1298</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill that would carve out a 
larger role for solar power in the state's renewable energy standard.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bigger biodiesel mandate proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1299</link>
<description>All diesel fuel sold in Minnesota would contain 20 percent 
biodiesel by 2015 under a bill approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Paper or electronic records?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1300</link>
<description>The state's Office of the Ombudsman for Mental 
Health and Developmental Disabilities would be permitted to retain paper copies 
of records, under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>DNR, PCA face budget reductions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1291</link>
<description>The Department of Natural Resources and Pollution Control 
Agency presented their supplemental budgets to a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Honoring those who served</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1292</link>
<description>A bill to create a Vietnam Veterans Day in Minnesota is on its way to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill would boost nanotechnology</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1293</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill designed to help expand 
and strengthen the state's nanotechnology sector.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Elections changes proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1294</link>
<description>A bill incorporating a bundle of elections provisions is headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Background checks</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1295</link>
<description>School hiring authorities may be able to contract with a third party to conduct 
criminal background checks.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Might be able to study a corridor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1296</link>
<description>The Metropolitan Council may be able to study a potential commuter rail line corridor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>24 hours to turn the heat on</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1286</link>
<description>Disconnected utility customers could get their heat turned back on faster under a bill passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House chaplain named</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1287</link>
<description>The House elected the Rev. Richard Buller as House chaplain.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Appointed, not elected</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1288</link>
<description>The House passed a pair of bills allowing certain offices 
in Nicollet and Yellow Medicine counties to be appointive.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping voter registration information current</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1289</link>
<description>A bill intended to keep the voter registration rolls 
updated and allow more efficient elections was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Checking for carcinogens</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1290</link>
<description>The health commissioner may be required to assess the risk of human cancer from carcinogens in the air, water, or soil.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Leave 'em room</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1282</link>
<description>A bill requiring motorists to move to the far left of a roadway when approaching road maintenance or construction vehicles received division approval.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 7 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tornado tax relief</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1283</link>
<description>Assessor values on a rebuilt home could be limited after a natural disaster.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 7 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Budget-defict reduction</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1284</link>
<description>Spending cuts, surplus balance funds and tapping into state budget reserves are the cornerstones of Gov. Tim Pawlentys deficit-reduction plan.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 7 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Photo-cop may be back</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1285</link>
<description>Cameras taking pictures of motorists going through red lights in Minneapolis may be turned back on.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 7 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House division approves LCCMR bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1276</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill that would authorize $23 million in environmental spending.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>School board elections</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1277</link>
<description>A bill to change how Bloomington School Board members are elected was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Department, district interaction</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1278</link>
<description>A bill to change the way the Department of Education interacts with school districts received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Calling a special session</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1279</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would make it easier for a special session to be called.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Special edication task force extension</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1280</link>
<description>A special education task force may be extended by one year.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No more texting in the car</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1281</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would prohibit text messaging while driving.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Voter registration status</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1269</link>
<description>A bill that would notify registered voters of their registration file status received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee members mull plasma arc technology</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1270</link>
<description>Members of a House committee see a bright future for a technology that turns waste into an energy source.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Campaign, election and voter modifications</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1271</link>
<description>A bill to define and modify election procedures is on its way to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Metropoitan Council term changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1272</link>
<description>A bill changing the terms for members of the Metropolitan 
Council was defeated by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Additional drivers training</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1273</link>
<description>Additional drivers training could be on the horizon before 
a teen gets a provisional license.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lanesboro sales tax increase</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1274</link>
<description>The City of Lanesboro may be able to impose a local sales tax of up to 0.5 percent.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increasing robbery penalties</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1275</link>
<description>The penalty for attempted robbery may increase, and robbery involving a motor vehicle crime may be created.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Youth intervention benefits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1262</link>
<description>For every dollar spent on youth intervention programs, the social return on investment is $4.89.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Group home geographic concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1263</link>
<description>Local zoning authorities may require residential programs to be located at least a specific distance from other programs.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Grad standards appeals</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1264</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would establish a temporary appeal of the graduation-required assessments.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Achievement equality sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1265</link>
<description>A bill that would attempt to eliminate differences in student academic achievement received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding basic agronomic research</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1266</link>
<description>A bill to provide $1 million for basic agronomic research on native plants was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>City officials sound off on drinking water</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1267</link>
<description>A group of city officials vented their frustrations about drinking water contamination to a House subcommittee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No eviction notice relief</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1268</link>
<description>A bill to allow an eviction notice to be expunged within a year failed to gain committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>DNR lands bill forthcoming</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1258</link>
<description>A House division began cobbling together the Department of Natural Resources annual “lands bill.”</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission membership increase</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1259</link>
<description>A bill to increase the membership of the Nashwauk Public Utilities Commission received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill put forth</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1260</link>
<description>The House capital investment bill designed to maximize jobs and federal dollars.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax bill debate begins</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1261</link>
<description>Debate began on a tax bill, but could go into the late-night hours.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Mar 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Looking ahead to next week</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1252</link>
<description>With transportation issues in the rear view mirror, the focus of the upcoming week is expected to turn to taxes and capital investment.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Seasonal recreational property tax refund</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1253</link>
<description>A new seasonal recreational property tax refund could be created.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax breaks for certain seniors</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1254</link>
<description>A House division heard a pair of bills that would provide property tax relief to some seniors.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Wireless protection</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1255</link>
<description>The Minnesota Wireless Telephone Consumer Protection Act made its way through its first division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Money for mental health beds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1256</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would allow construction of a new specialty psychiatric hospital.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cap concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1257</link>
<description>The House capital investment bill could come in above the historic 3 percent funding guideline.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Landfill cleanup bonds proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1247</link>
<description>A bill would use the states remediation fund to finance $25 million in cleanup efforts at closed landfill sites.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tightening background check</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1248</link>
<description>School districts may have to more closely look at past sexual misconduct of 
those who would work with children.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Catastrophe compensation fund</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1249</link>
<description>A plan to compensate survivors of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>$935 million deficit projected</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1250</link>
<description>The February Forecast was released today, predicting a $935 million budget deficit.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Molnau ousted as transportation commissioner</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1251</link>
<description>On a party-line vote, the Senate refused to confirm Carol Molnau as transportation commissioner.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Regulating dangerous dogs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1242</link>
<description>A bill to change the regulation of dangerous dogs continues to inch its way toward the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Earning all they can</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1243</link>
<description>Funding is being requested to let women maximize their earning potential.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Hospital taxing district sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1244</link>
<description>A bill establishing a taxable district within St. Louis County is on its way to the House Taxes Committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>County appointments</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1245</link>
<description>Two bills that would allow counties to make positions appointed rather than elected are on their way to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New energy efficiency guidelines proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1246</link>
<description>A House division laid over a bill that would tighten energy efficiency guidelines for state buildings.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Permanent solution sought for contaminated landfill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1237</link>
<description>Members of a House division questioned a state agencys proposal to clean up a contaminated landfill site.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Judicial selection process could be reformed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1238</link>
<description>A bill to amend the state constitution and reform the judicial selection process passed its first legislative hurdle.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Adding measures of academic success to school report card</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1239</link>
<description>A bill to add state academic growth-based measures to the Minnesota school report card received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Water and soil board criticized — again</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1240</link>
<description>The Board of Water and Soil Resources received another failing grade from the legislative auditor.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sales tax expansion offered</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1241</link>
<description>A pair of bills would expand the state sales tax to clothing.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transportation bill overriden</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1236</link>
<description>The House and Senate voted to override a gubernatorial veto of the nearly $6.7 billion transportation bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Task force to look into broadband needs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1232</link>
<description>A task force may look into state broadband needs.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 22 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Listing names of those deceased in combat</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1233</link>
<description>There is no comprehensive listing of those with state ties 
who have died in combat, but that could change.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 22 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transportation finance bill vetoed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1234</link>
<description>It took less than one day for the transportation finance bill to be vetoed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 22 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill would require plastic bag recycling</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1235</link>
<description>A bill would require retailers who provide their customers with plastic bags to offer in-store bag recycling.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 22 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding recommendations completed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1226</link>
<description>The House Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division finished its bonding recommendations.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public safety bonding requests</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1227</link>
<description>Public safety bonding recommendations are moving forward.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Heritage bonding requests</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1228</link>
<description>The House Minnesota Heritage Finance Division has created its bonding recommendations.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increasing school trust fund land revenue</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1229</link>
<description>The way that land held by the state to benefit school districts is managed could change</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Measuring student achievement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1230</link>
<description>A bill to identify achievement measures for alternative learning centers and charter schools received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transportation finance plan gets House approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1231</link>
<description>House approval has been given to a transportation finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Natural disaster assistance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1219</link>
<description>A bill to establish a framework and procedure for natural disaster assistance received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Code changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1220</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would change the 
state tax code for the current season.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>An alternate transportation funding plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1221</link>
<description>A Republican transportation funding package was unveiled.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Investing in Minnesota businesses</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1222</link>
<description>A bill would ask the State Board of Investment to put more of its assets in Minnesota venture capital businesses.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Compensation plan clears couple of committees</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1223</link>
<description>A House committee and division each approved a plan to compensate survivors of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Hemp industry development and regulation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1224</link>
<description>Minnesota could join a neighboring state in its effort to allow the growing of industrial hemp.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Predesign funding sought</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1225</link>
<description>Funding may be provided to improve a pair of downtown 
Minneapolis landmarks.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Biotech tax incentives proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1212</link>
<description>A House committee approved a pair of bills designed to 
provide tax incentives to potential biotech investors.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Highways and bridges evaluation report</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1213</link>
<description>A legislative auditor's report presented a mixed bag of news for the Department of Transportation.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Another education office may be created</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1214</link>
<description>An Office of Early Childhood Education may be established.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Programming extension proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1215</link>
<description>A plan to extend the time frame for school-age childrens programming received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Approval to meet</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1216</link>
<description>Local government meetings and events may be able to take place after 6 p.m. on March 4.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Roof repairs requested</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1217</link>
<description>The National Guard may be able to cross two Greater Minnesota roofs off their list of concerns.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Veterans memorial proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1218</link>
<description>A Twin Cities suburb may get money to improve a veterans memorial.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Biofuel program shorted in bonding recommendations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1207</link>
<description>A program to pay landowners to develop lands for biofuel crops will likely go unfunded.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Rep. Olson apologizes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1208</link>
<description>Rep. Mark Olson (R-Big Lake) apologized for actions that he said brought “disrepute” to the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transportation funding changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1209</link>
<description>The transportation finance bill speeding to the House floor has been changed.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding recommendations made for energy projects</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1210</link>
<description>Three energy-related projects have been recommended for inclusion in the forthcoming bonding bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Biodiesel mandate could increase to 20 percent</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1211</link>
<description>The current mandate regulating the use and 
production of biodiesel could increase.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Vietnam Veterans Day proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1202</link>
<description>A bill would honor Vietnam vets who returned from war to an unsupportive public.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Green Acres concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1203</link>
<description>A program to lower property taxes for owners of farmland encroached by developing cities doesnt always work.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Juvenile interrogation protection</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1204</link>
<description>A bill to help protect juveniles during a police interrogation was approved by a subcommittee.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Understanding diversity better</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1205</link>
<description>A new working group aims to help better understand cultural diversity.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Contractual concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1206</link>
<description>State departments may again be able to enter into construction contracts that contain labor agreements.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Catastrophe fund gets committee approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1197</link>
<description>A plan to compensate survivors of the Interstate 35W bridge 
collapse was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Some teaching employment requirements may be modified</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1198</link>
<description>A plan for unlicensed teachers to teach Early Childhood Family Education courses received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1199</link>
<description>The House and Senate passed a bill asking voters to 
dedicate new funding for environment and the arts.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Remembering with Dignity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1200</link>
<description>A project seeks state money to honor the deceased.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Emergency preparedness training</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1201</link>
<description>Plans for a homeland security and emergency management training and exercise center could be in a division's bonding recommendations.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Protection with a pen</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1194</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty again pledged to veto any tax increases.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding plan speeding along</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1195</link>
<description>A transportation funding plan appears to be speeding through the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funds requested for waste-to-energy project</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1196</link>
<description>A proposed power plant in Hutchinson would turn waste into 
energy.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding package proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1189</link>
<description>A transportation funding plan was proffered on the opening day of session.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding bill on its way to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1190</link>
<description>Supporters of dedicated funding for the environment and the arts will get an early valentine Thursday.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>And they're off</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1191</link>
<description>The first House floor session of 2008 was largely ceremonial.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Capital projects list draws criticism</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1192</link>
<description>House Capital Investment Finance Division members had plenty questions about the governor's bonding proposal.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Hearings begin on K-12 bonding proposals</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1193</link>
<description>Library accessibility projects could be included in a divisions bonding recommendations.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>On the fast track</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1186</link>
<description>Legislative leaders are promising a quick start to the 2008 session.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Toxic chemicals a 'silent epidemic'</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1187</link>
<description>An expert said the average unborn baby may have hundreds of 
potentially dangerous chemicals in their body.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Financial management of health programs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1188</link>
<description>A legislative auditor's report says improvements can be made in state health care programs.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Offender re-entry assistance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1184</link>
<description>Initiatives intended to successfully enhance offender re-entry is expected to be introduced this session.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 4 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Resolution would call for action on peak oil</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1185</link>
<description>An expert called for government action to mitigate the potentially dire consequences of peak oil.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 4 Feb 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge bucks</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1183</link>
<description>The half-finished Wakota Bridge project led to a full hearing about why the delay and how much more itll cost.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jan 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee deadlines established</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1182</link>
<description>Two weeks before session is scheduled to begin, committee deadlines have been established in the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Mining proposals come under scrutiny</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1181</link>
<description>Legislators met to weigh the economic benefits of new mining projects against potential environmental impacts.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Compensation proposals outlined</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1180</link>
<description>Groundwork has been laid for two compensation proposals for victims of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 22 Jan 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cities, states grapple with peak oil</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1179</link>
<description>Peak oil poses a dire challenge to local governments, experts tell members of two House committees.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governor offers his plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1178</link>
<description>The governor's bonding recommendations include a record amount for bridge replacement.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Climate change plan forthcoming</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1177</link>
<description>A plan to reduce the states contribution to global warming could save money, legislators learned.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislative preview</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1176</link>
<description>Legislative leaders and the governor shared their thoughts about the upcoming session.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More MnDOT funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1174</link>
<description>The Transportation Contingent Appropriation Group signed off an additional $30 million for MnDOT.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Dec 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No quick fix to financial woes, economist says</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1173</link>
<description>No short-term fix to budget woes, economist says.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Dec 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Forecast shows a weakening state economy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1172</link>
<description>A forecast shows the state faces a projected $373 million budget deficit for the 2008-09 biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Disaster relief?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1171</link>
<description>Emergency hardship relief could be forthcoming for survivors and victims families from the I-35W bridge collapse.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No agreement on Capitol plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1170</link>
<description>A revamped proposal to phase in State Capitol renovations was not well received by a working group.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge relief</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1169</link>
<description>How potential funds could be meted out for Interstate 35W bridge collapse victims remains a work in progress.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding advice</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1167</link>
<description>A legislative subcommittee got advice from someone who has been in charge of a Sept. 11 victims fund.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Federal support to the state</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1168</link>
<description>The $7 billion in federal money the state expects to receive this fiscal year, and how the Legislature expends the funds was up for review.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Drinking water supply faces challenges</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1164</link>
<description>The states drinking water supply faces future challenges, experts told a House subcommittee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State cleanup assistance?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1165</link>
<description>A couple facing a $67,000 assessment on their property for a problem they didnt create may get state help.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No extra money for now</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1166</link>
<description>The latest request for additional Department of Transportation money was again denied.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New initiatives</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1163</link>
<description>Working group recommendations could lead to new health initiatives.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Nov 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Disaster relief fund</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1162</link>
<description>People living each day with results of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse may get state assistance to help cope.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislators mull broadband policy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1161</link>
<description>Business and community leaders called on legislators to help bring faster broadband Internet to the state.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Autism awareness</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1160</link>
<description>The number of Minnesota children identified as potentially having an autism spectrum disorder has increased by more than 700 percent since 1997.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Some funding granted</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1159</link>
<description>The Transportation Contingent Appropriation Group signed off an additional $60 million for the Department of Transportation.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No bridge funding yet</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1158</link>
<description>For the third time, a transportation working group declined to sign off on $195 million for the Interstate 35W bridge reconstruction.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No funding yet</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1156</link>
<description>A Transportation Contingent Appropriations Group has a better understanding of what its decision could mean.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Looking for answers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1157</link>
<description>A House committee is threatening to issue subpoenas to get information from the Department of Transportation.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Another study</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1153</link>
<description>An addendum to a decade-old transportation spending report is in the works.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Not fast enough</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1154</link>
<description>The Board of Water and Soil Resources is moving too slow on new wetland protection initiatives, some House members said.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sentencing concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1155</link>
<description>Some people are calling for changes to the sentencing guideline model the state has been using since the early-1980s.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Higher bridge costs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1152</link>
<description>A group failed to sign off on using $195 million in state reserves to temporarily pay for reconstruction of the Interstate 35W bridge. However, it doesnt mean it wont.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Improved communication needed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1151</link>
<description>A working group heard that police and corrections personnel need to be better trained to work with deaf and hard of hearing people.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Full disclosure wanted</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1150</link>
<description>A quartet of House DFL members wants the next state health commissioner to be more open about disclosing public health concerns.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 25 Sep 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1149</link>
<description>The Metropolitan Airports Commission was the target of criticism at a joint meeting.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Flood relief approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1148</link>
<description>Legislators approved a bill to help areas of southeast Minnesota affected by floods.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Sep 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Special session called</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1147</link>
<description>A special session has been called to deal with disaster relief for 
parts of Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Sep 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Flood relief assistance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1146</link>
<description>State agencies have been directed to provide $31.8 million for the rebuilding effort in flood-stricken southeast Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 7 Sep 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Disability and poverty</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1145</link>
<description>A legislative commission received more information about poverty in Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Sep 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Oberstar promotes tax increase plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1144</link>
<description>A congressional leader told legislators that the United States should bump its gas tax to help fund bridge repair.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 22 Aug 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bridge reconstruction update</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1143</link>
<description>House and Senate transportation committee members commented on the Interstate 35W bridge reconstruction plan.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Aug 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Drazkowski set to take Sviggums seat</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1142</link>
<description>Steve Drazkowski won the special election in District 28B, replacing former House Speaker Steve Sviggum.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 8 Aug 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A tragic tour</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1141</link>
<description>Some legislators got an up-close look at the Interstate 35W bridge collapse.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 6 Aug 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Capitol renovation plans</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1140</link>
<description>It could be back to the drawing board for the State Capitol renovation plan.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 3 Aug 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Poverty concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1139</link>
<description>Minnesota has one of the lowest poverty rates in the nation, but the numbers are somewhat deceiving.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 2 Aug 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Challenges to be addressed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1137</link>
<description>Minnesotas human services system has challenges and performance problems that are not being adequately addressed by the state or counties.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Containing care costs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1138</link>
<description>Health care reform depends on a holistic, systemic approach, panelists say.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax bill veto likely, but no special session</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1136</link>
<description>A special session is unlikely, despite a likely veto of the tax bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 22 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>To the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1132</link>
<description>Members hope to get a passing grade on a new higher education plan that is headed to the governors desk.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Education bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1133</link>
<description>An E-12 education finance bill awaits action by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Health plan approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1134</link>
<description>The omnibus health and human services finance bill received legislative approval.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State government funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1135</link>
<description>The omnibus state government finance bill was approved by the House and Senate.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conference report passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1128</link>
<description>The omnibus environment and natural resources policy conference report is on its way to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 20 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lead notification</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1129</link>
<description>Jewelry containing certain levels of lead would have to be labeled as such, under a bill headed to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 20 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Back to the governor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1130</link>
<description>The omnibus economic development finance bill is again on its way to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 20 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Next Generation Energy Act approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1131</link>
<description>The Next Generation Energy Act of 2007 is headed to the governors desk for signature.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 20 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Agreement reached</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1125</link>
<description>A bill that would, in part, expand purchasing power for family planning clinics was approved by a conference committee.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 19 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Needing to be slimmed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1126</link>
<description>As part of budget negotiations, $1.9 million needs to be cut from any new omnibus economic development finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 19 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No transportation vote</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1127</link>
<description>An attempt to force a vote on a possible override of the omnibus transportation finance bill was again tabled in the House.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 19 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Controlling gang activity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1121</link>
<description>An attempt to control gang activity awaits action by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 18 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Independent contractor licensure</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1122</link>
<description>A bill that would shield employers when hiring certain contractors received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 18 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Metrodome replacement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1123</link>
<description>Members of the House Taxes Committee heard about plans for a new stadium to house the Minnesota Vikings.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 18 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Back to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1124</link>
<description>The omnibus data practices bill will soon return to the House and Senate floors for approval.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 18 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>School employee coverage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1120</link>
<description>A bill to establish a mandatory health insurance pool for all school employees received House approval after more than seven hours of debate.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 17 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1118</link>
<description>A proposal to dedicate funding for the environment and the 
arts was approved by two more House committees.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No smoking</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1119</link>
<description>“No smoking” signs will soon proliferate across Minnesota, with a new law signed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gift card redemption</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1114</link>
<description>Most gift cards would have no expiration dates, under a bill that received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding bill tabled</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1115</link>
<description>A proposal to dedicate funding for the environment and the 
arts hit a snag in the House Taxes Committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Car buying protection</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1116</link>
<description>Consumers could have better protection when buying cars, under a bill passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding bill making progress</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1111</link>
<description>The House Finance Committee voted 17-9 to approve dedicated funding for the 
environment and the arts.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House approval given</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1112</link>
<description>On its way to the governor is a package that includes tax increases and other funding mechanisms for transportation.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>License plate program expansion</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1113</link>
<description>Eligibility requirements for grants made through the Support Our Troops license plates program could be loosened.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Right to health care approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1108</link>
<description>A proposal to make health care a constitutional right for every Minnesotan was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1109</link>
<description>The House State Government Finance Division is the latest to approve bill that seeks to establish dedicated funding for the environment and the arts.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax relief plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1110</link>
<description>A property tax relief bill approved by the House is expected to be vetoed.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Math standards revised</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1106</link>
<description>State math standards are to become more rigorous for the 2007-08 school year.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Policy bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1107</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that contains a number of transportation policy provisions.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1103</link>
<description>A bill that seeks to establish dedicated funding for the 
environment and the arts has cleared another hurdle in the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 9 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Open meeting law changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1104</link>
<description>Meetings by some public bodies could be legally conducted by telephone or electronic means during declared emergencies.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 9 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Agreement reached</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1105</link>
<description>The Transportation Finance Conference Committee reached agreement on a package that members hope will move Minnesota forward.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 9 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Airport study</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1099</link>
<description>A task force could look at costs associated with soaring above the clouds.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 8 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>System merger</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1100</link>
<description>A plan to allow the merger of two library systems received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 8 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>CAAPB Board expansion</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1101</link>
<description>Two legislators could be added to the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, under a bill passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 8 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smoking ban debate</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1102</link>
<description>Conferees reached little compromise over their smoking ban proposals during an afternoon session.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 8 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Healthier employees</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1094</link>
<description>Cities may be permitted to operate a preventive health program for its employees.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Medical marijuana</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1095</link>
<description>Medical marijuana legislation overcame a final committee hurdle in the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Hearing aid coverage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1096</link>
<description>The House passed a bill that would expand private coverage of hearing aids.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Game, fish and lands bill passes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1097</link>
<description>The omnibus game and fish bill was expanded to include the 
lands acquisition bill and others before being passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding package proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1098</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty is likely going to give his grade to a higher education funding package.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 7 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Literacy group meets</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1089</link>
<description>Even though the conference committee did not meet, some education discussion did occur between House and Senate members.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reviving mortuary practices</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1090</link>
<description>A bill updating language for mortuary practices was easily passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Restricting online bullying</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1091</link>
<description>A bill that could possibly put a stop to electronic bullying is headed to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Signed into law</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1092</link>
<description>The bill that nearly everyone loved throughout the legislative process was signed into law.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 4 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public safety bill escapes veto</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1088</link>
<description>The omnibus public safety finance bill could be warmly received by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 3 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Who needs two, legally?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1084</link>
<description>Minnesota may soon become a friendlier place for ticket resellers.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 2 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>To the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1085</link>
<description>A wide-ranging jobs and economic development bill is headed 
for the House and Senate floors.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 2 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Working towards a resolution</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1086</link>
<description>An educational accountability working group met, but took no action.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 2 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Questioning the course</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1075</link>
<description>Members of the Transportation Finance Conference Committee are unsure how to proceed after the governor vetoed the capital investment bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No attorney general hearing</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1076</link>
<description>A request for a House hearing on controversy in the attorney general's office was tabled.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Medicinal marijuana approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1077</link>
<description>Medical marijuana got the green light from members of the House Finance Committee and the full Senate.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Next stop: The governors desk</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1078</link>
<description>The governor will now decide the fate of the Compassionate 
Care for Sexual Assault Victims Act.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Corrections gets help with staffing</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1079</link>
<description>The Public Safety Finance Conference Committee signed off on its report.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Telling the truth</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1080</link>
<description>Service call centers would be required to disclose their location, under a bill receiving House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding gets the axe</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1081</link>
<description>With the ink barely dry on the bill, Gov. Tim Pawlenty vetoed the entire capital investment bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conference committee making progress</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1082</link>
<description>The Environment, Energy and Natural Resources Finance 
Conference Committee reached agreement on numerous provisions of its omnibus 
bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House makes an offer</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1083</link>
<description>House members extended a hand towards compromise during the 
Health and Human Services Finance Conference Committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public finance discussion started</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1072</link>
<description>Work began in the House Taxes Committee on an omnibus 
public finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Mercury bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1073</link>
<description>A bill that would restrict the sale, use and disposal of 
certain products containing mercury was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill passage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1074</link>
<description>The Capital Investment Conference Committee report is on 
its way to the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax bill passes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1071</link>
<description>After more than five hours of debate, the House passed its omnibus tax bill.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smoking ban passes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1070</link>
<description>Opponents were unable to snuff out passage of a potential statewide smoking ban.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 26 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1068</link>
<description>The omnibus game and fish bill was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill would fund vets and bioenergy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1069</link>
<description>Hopes are high that the ag and veterans bill will move quickly to the governors desk.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 25 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>E-waste bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1062</link>
<description>A bill that would establish a statewide system to recycle e-waste was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Policy provisions OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1063</link>
<description>A number of transportation policy provisions received House Finance Committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A good start in education</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1064</link>
<description>The E-12 Education Finance Conference Committee started off with what some called a good omen.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Celebration donations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1065</link>
<description>A commission organized to plan the states 150th birthday party next year may be authorized to accept donations.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1066</link>
<description>Members took testimony on a bill that would create dedicated funding for the environment and the arts, but took no action.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>The first exam</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1067</link>
<description>Discussion began of differences between the Senate and House versions of the omnibus health and human services finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 24 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill unveiled</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1058</link>
<description>After several weeks of testimony and about 300 bills, the House Taxes Committee unveiled its omnibus bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1059</link>
<description>The amount of money a city must pay a charter commission to 
educate local voters could increase.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill on hold</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1060</link>
<description>The omnibus environment, energy and natural resources finance bill is on hold while its conference committee awaits a side-by-side comparison.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transportation differences</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1061</link>
<description>Transportation finance conferees heard the differences between the House and Senate plans at their first meeting.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 23 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Emerginng industries get funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1055</link>
<description>It was called a bill about building the states economic development infrastructure. But you could also call it the states research and development package, tourism promotion, historical programming, housing and job concerns bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Targets adjusted</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1056</link>
<description>The House recessed today so the House Ways and Means Committee could meet to deal with a couple of money issues.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill proposes tuition freeze</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1057</link>
<description>
Higher education bill passes with Dream Act intact.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Early morning passage of bill includes Emilys Law</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1053</link>
<description>Public safety bill would prohibit civil action by anyone who claims that weight gain is a result of food consumption.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>K-12 finance bill discussion continues</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1054</link>
<description>K-12 finance bill discussion continues.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 18 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>An end to a department</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1047</link>
<description>The state employee relations department could be on its way to the history books.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Amendment would allow Guard members to play ball</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1048</link>
<description>In what can only be described as sweeping bipartisan support, the agriculture, veterans and military affairs omnibus finance bill passed the House 131-2.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A miners disease</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1051</link>
<description>House members hear about planned research of rare form of cancer found in miners.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Finance bill passes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1052</link>
<description>After 10 hours of floor debate, the House passes the environment, natural resources and energy omnibus finance bill  95-38.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 17 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sanctions for predatory lenders</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1045</link>
<description>Bill lays out possible sanctions for predatory lending practices.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smoking ban awaits action by the full House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1046</link>
<description>Smoking ban passes over last committee hurdle and is now on its way to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 16 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Throughout its committee travels, bill remained noncontroversial</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1041</link>
<description>Reflecting a nearly 30 percent funding increase over the last biennium, the ag and vets bill is on its way to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill ready for floor action</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1042</link>
<description>The environment, natural resources and energy omnibus finance bill is headed for the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More balanced competition seen as possible outcome</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1043</link>
<description>Bill that would institute statewide regulations on cable providers receives division approval.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 13 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>E-waste bill moves forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1038</link>
<description>A bill that would establish a statewide system to recycle e-waste is on a fast track to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>New checkoff proposed to help fund celebrations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1039</link>
<description>
Minnesotans could be given the chance help the state fund its 150th anniversary celebration.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill continues its move forward</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1040</link>
<description>Dream Act provision remains part of higher ed work force bill</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>
K-12 omnibus one step closer to the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1035</link>
<description>The House K-12 Education Finance omnibus bill took one more step toward a possible date on the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Domestic partners of state employees could see health benefits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1036</link>
<description>State Government bill calls for $544.5 million in spending.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Eagan company could get exemption</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1037</link>
<description>An Eagan publishing company could see a sales tax exemption on an expansion project if the state agrees to help.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smoking ban continues to progress</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1032</link>
<description>A plan to expand a smoking prohibition to restaurants, bars and places of employment continues to puff along.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 9 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Closed wood plant maintenance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1033</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would prohibit a company from letting an oriented strand board plant fall into disrepair.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 2 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deficiency funding concern</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1034</link>
<description>A $300 million contract for new buses may need to be revisited.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 2 Apr 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Next Generation Energy Act</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1030</link>
<description>A bill that aims to take Minnesotas energy policy into the next generation was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 30 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Passing another test</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1031</link>
<description>The omnibus higher education and workforce development finance bill passed another test.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 30 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Finance bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1025</link>
<description>The House Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division approved its omnibus bill, which includes a number of funding increases.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1026</link>
<description>The House omnibus public safety finance bill has cleared its first hurdle.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Rental vehicle coverage extension</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1027</link>
<description>A bill to extend the time that a rental vehicle is covered by the renter's insurance was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Exempting biofuel</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1028</link>
<description>Nontraditional home heating fuel sources could become sales tax exempt.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1029</link>
<description>The omnibus state government finance bill was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fragrance free schools</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1022</link>
<description>Minneapolis schools could be going fragrance free in an effort to curb asthma attacks by students and teachers.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More than corn, beans and cows</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1023</link>
<description>Division approval was given to an omnibus bill that is more than corn, beans and cows.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Treatment concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1024</link>
<description>The use and sale of any product for the treatment of lice or scabies that contains the pesticide Lindane could be prohibited.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1019</link>
<description>A plan has been offered to help students with rising education costs and assist the state in its quest to be a biotechnology leader.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reenlistment, reimbusement monies</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1020</link>
<description>Commissioned officers in the National Guard could qualify for a reenlistment bonus, as well as a $1,000 tuition reimbursement grant.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No mandatory overtime</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1021</link>
<description>Nurses employed at most state facilities could have the 
same ability to say no to extra work as those in the private sector.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smoking ban detour</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1016</link>
<description>A motion to send the proposed statewide smoking ban to the House floor didnt stick.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 26 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>K-12 funding plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1017</link>
<description>The omnibus K-12 education bill would provide a $919 million increase in funding from the current biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 26 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus energy finance bill forthcoming</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1018</link>
<description>The House Energy Finance and Policy Division began the process of vetting its omnibus energy finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 26 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1015</link>
<description>A bill that would increase the states gas tax and potentially raise other taxes to help pay for transportation needs received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 24 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Policy provisions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1013</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would impose a number of transportation policy changes.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 23 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sustainable growth working group</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1014</link>
<description>A new group would get state and local areas to work simultaneously on long-term environmental and economic development initiatives.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 23 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cell phone fines</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1010</link>
<description>A House division has put a plan to increase fines for a moving violation on hold.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Wanting in-state tuition</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1011</link>
<description>A plan to allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smaller classes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1012</link>
<description>Class sizes could become smaller and capped in an effort to reduce the achievement gap.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Vacation time returned</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1008</link>
<description>State workers could be compensated for time lost during 2005 partial government shutdown.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Towns could see their state aid restored</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1009</link>
<description>A bill would provide towns with nearly $5 million in LGA.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conservation Corps cash</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1000</link>
<description>A plan to help deaf and hearing impaired youth was heard loud and clear by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Report on mold contractor licensing proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1001</link>
<description>Contractors hired to control mold growth could need to be licensed.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Financial assistance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1002</link>
<description>WWII vets could have their way paid to a memorial dedication.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Combating aquatic invasive species</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1003</link>
<description>A surcharge could be added to watercraft license fees to help combat aquatic invasive species.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Early childhood funding plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1004</link>
<description>Funding that was cut in 2003 could be restored to early childhood programming.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Chemical dependency entitlements</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1005</link>
<description>Those eligible for county-paid chemical dependency treatment could be expanded.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Relief for allergy sufferers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=1006</link>
<description>Methamphetamine precursor drugs consumer purchase limit could be altered.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Computer theft charge</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=995</link>
<description>A plan to toughen a penalty for computer theft has been booted up.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Open enrollment could be OK</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=996</link>
<description>A bill to overrule a Minnesota State High School League decision received subcommittee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No night goggles</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=997</link>
<description>Hunting with night vision goggles could become illegal.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding bill unveiled</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=998</link>
<description>Minnesotas colleges and universities could see $52 million 
to do much needed repairs to buildings if a House bonding bill passes.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increasing the minimum wage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=992</link>
<description>On the eve of St. Patricks Day, a House division gave approval to a bill that could put a little more green in peoples pockets.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Spending targets set</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=993</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a new tax tier to help pay down property taxes.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Employee sick leave</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=994</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would provide sick leave for most employees.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Recovering student transfers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=985</link>
<description>Students that are in recovery-focused high schools could be allowed to participate in activities in their resident school district.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Made in America</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=986</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would ensure a symbol of our country is made in America.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More parental involvement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=987</link>
<description>Local school boards may have to follow a series of guidelines that foster greater parent involvement.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Talking and driving</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=988</link>
<description>People who choose to drive while talking on a cell phone 
could pay more than just roaming charges.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smoking ban support</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=989</link>
<description>A House division gave its support to a smoking ban.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Safe parent visitation centers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=990</link>
<description>A plan to allocate funding to make sure that there are safe places for supervised visits was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bucks for pucks</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=991</link>
<description>Another prominent hockey center could see improvements if 
money is included in a bonding bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>African-born AIDS prevention</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=981</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would help fund a public education and awareness campaign about AIDS targeting communities of African-born residents.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax deduction clarification</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=982</link>
<description>National Guard members could be tax exempt on money earned for out-of-state service.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Automatic voter registration</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=983</link>
<description>A bill would make registering to vote as easy as getting a driver's license.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Historic preservation credit</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=984</link>
<description>An historic structure rehabilitation income tax credit could be provided.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Drivers license reinstatement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=975</link>
<description>It might become easier to pay the fine to get your driver's license back.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lets Go Fishing</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=976</link>
<description>A program that helps senior citizens and people with disabilities go fishing could get a funding boost.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Absentee voting overseas</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=977</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would help overseas military and non-resident citizen voters.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Home care credit</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=978</link>
<description>Residents providing care for loved ones to prevent them from moving into a nursing home could receive a tax credit.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cost assistance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=979</link>
<description>Organic farmers could get help paying annual certification costs.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Responsible sex education</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=980</link>
<description>Students could attend responsible family life and sexuality education programs in the 
future.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deer for the hungry</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=971</link>
<description>A bill that would create a program to help hunters donate deer to feed the hungry cleared its second committee hurdle.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding government</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=972</link>
<description>State government could take about 16 cents on every dollar 
of personal income.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Extended kindergarten</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=973</link>
<description>Minnesota families could opt to have their kindergartners spend eight weeks of summer vacation in school instead of staying home.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Telecommuting tax credit</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=974</link>
<description>Held over for later consideration is a bill that would provide income tax credits for telecommuting.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Counties could see their state aid increase</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=964</link>
<description>A bill to increase state aid to counties was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Depleted uranium testing for soldiers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=969</link>
<description>A bill could provide depleted uranium testing for active duty soldiers.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Seed money for hydrogen power</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=970</link>
<description>A House division laid over a bill that would ramp up development of hydrogen power in Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Test fee reimbursement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=962</link>
<description>Students taking either the ACT or SAT tests could be reimbursed the testing fees.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tuition planning</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=963</link>
<description>A tool could be put in place to help students control their college costs.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Trip to Chicago could be faster by train</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=965</link>
<description>It could become faster to take the train to the Windy City.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Substance abuse and pregnant women</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=966</link>
<description>A bill would provide services for pregnant women with drug addictions.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legalizing marijuana</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=968</link>
<description>A bill to legalize the medical use of marijuana awaits action by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Primary, caucus date change</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=960</link>
<description>The state primary election and precinct caucuses could be held earlier in the year.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bioscience commercialization grants</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=961</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would provide $10 million for bioscience business development and commercialization grants.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conservation corps funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=957</link>
<description>The Minnesota Conservation Corps could get a funding boost.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pet tax exemption</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=958</link>
<description>A bill that would exempt sales tax on certain pet sales was held over by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Nanotechnology fund</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=959</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill designed to allow small businesses greater access to nanotechnology.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Product awareness</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=954</link>
<description>Some plants that have a place in landscape design could be fatal to pets, livestock and even children.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Benefit eligible</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=955</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would encourage the federal government to make good on its promise of educational benefits for reservists.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Homestead credit change</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=956</link>
<description>A bill that would give 86 percent of homeowners in the state property tax relief was heard by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Anti-theft assurance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=952</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would regulate warranties provided with the sale of vehicle protection products,</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 2 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gift card value</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=953</link>
<description>A bill that would ensure that the full value of a gift card can be used was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 2 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Defibrillators for all</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=949</link>
<description>Defibrillator purchase grants could be provided to local law enforcement agencies.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Combating domestic violence</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=950</link>
<description>A plan to assist in domestic violence responses from law enforcement agencies was heard by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Internet controls</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=951</link>
<description>Restraining orders could be authorized against Internet providers or other computer systems publishing harassing information.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Mar 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission elimination</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=944</link>
<description>A legislative commission would be eliminated, under a bill heading to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Un-mobile homes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=945</link>
<description>A pair of bills would force park owners to pay residents relocation costs upon the 
closure of a park.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Property tax exemption</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=946</link>
<description>Permanently disabled vets could have their homes exempt from property taxes.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>February forecast release</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=947</link>
<description>The latest economic forecast did not change much from the one released in November.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Awarding contracts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=948</link>
<description>State and local government contracts may no longer be awarded solely on the basis of the lowest bid.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 28 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Working together</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=939</link>
<description>A bill to improve communication between early childhood centers, parents and schools received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Stem cell research</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=940</link>
<description>A bill to potentially further stem cell research was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Predator penalties</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=941</link>
<description>Anyone convicted of using the Internet to solicit a child to engage in sexual conduct could end up in prison.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Border city enterprise</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=942</link>
<description>Keeping cities competitive on the states western border is the basis for a bill heard by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Birth defect information</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=943</link>
<description>A plan for greater data collection of birth defects was approved by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>LCCMR bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=938</link>
<description>A bill passed by the House would appropriate more than $23 million from the states environmental trust funds for land, water and air protection.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 26 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping veterans here</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=936</link>
<description>A bill looks to offer tax breaks to prevent Minnesota from losing valuable human resources to other states.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 23 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax limitation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=937</link>
<description>A bill that would limit homestead property taxes to 5 
percent of the property owners income was heard by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 23 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Renewable energy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=931</link>
<description>Minnesota now has the most aggressive renewable energy standard in the United States.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Interactive learning</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=932</link>
<description>Technology similar to a telestrator used during football broadcasts could end up in more Minnesota classrooms.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Response system funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=933</link>
<description>Funding is being requested for a response system that would be beneficial in times of disaster.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Stem cell policy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=934</link>
<description>A bill to set state policy and potentially fund stem cell research was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Curtailing gang activity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=935</link>
<description>It may soon be harder for gangs to hang out at their favorite spot.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 22 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tuition fairness</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=928</link>
<description>A plan to change the reciprocity agreement between Minnesota and Wisconsin was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Levy exemptions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=929</link>
<description>Rural school districts seeking capital improvements run into opposition from local farmers.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding for bioscience</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=930</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to bill designed to help fund bioscience at the University of Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State contract information</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=923</link>
<description>The public would be able to search state contracts via a Web site, under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reducing government</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=924</link>
<description>A state department would be eliminated, under a bill receiving committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lowering sales tax</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=925</link>
<description>A plan to reduce the general sales and use tax rate was not acted upon by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Lack of farmer funds</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=926</link>
<description>A program farmers use for financial assistance is dry.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Private coverage expanded to young adults</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=927</link>
<description>Private health care coverage could be expanded to include those not enrolled as full-time students.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Deer for the needy</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=920</link>
<description>A bill would add a $1 surcharge to deer hunting licenses to help hunters donate their extra deer to the needy.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 19 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More flexibility for international medical graduates</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=921</link>
<description>More pathways could become available for international physicians to prove their credentials.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 19 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Taxing Botox®</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=922</link>
<description>Residents might have to rethink Botox® injections if a sales 
tax on the service begins in July.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 19 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Broadband in rural Minnesota</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=918</link>
<description>High-speed Internet availability in rural Minnesota can depend on cost and demand, according to an upcoming study.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Union information</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=919</link>
<description>Workplace communications between labor organizations and employees could be further protected.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 16 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Early childhood screening and assessment</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=916</link>
<description>At-risk parents and children would be given priority to Early Childhood Family Education when funds are limited, under a proposed bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Absentee voting</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=917</link>
<description>Absentee ballot voting eligibility would be expanded, under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 15 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Early support for youth</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=911</link>
<description>Discussion began on a bill that calls for additional youth intervention program funding.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Soliciting federal dollars</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=912</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill aimed at helping 
Minnesota bioscience and technology companies secure federal contracts.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reducing anonymous pamphlets</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=913</link>
<description>Constitutional conformity would be provided for campaign material disclaimer, under a bill headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Preventing a fatal choice</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=914</link>
<description>Suicide prevention grants would be restored, under a bill heard by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A healthy heart</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=915</link>
<description>Heart disease and stroke prevention funding would be provided, under a bill heard by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 14 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Paying for Q comp</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=907</link>
<description>An alternative teacher pay system, more commonly known as Q comp, could be easier for three intermediate school districts to use.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Helping runaways</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=908</link>
<description>A bill that would appropriate $8 million for the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act was held over by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transfer of monies</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=909</link>
<description>House approval was given to a bill that would permit the transfer of HAVA monies.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Investing in biobusiness</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=910</link>
<description>A bill approved by a House committee would provide $2.2 million to help grow the states bioscience business community.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Renewable energy standard approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=905</link>
<description>A House division approved a bill that would require 25 percent of the states electricity to come from renewable sources by 2025.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission establishment</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=906</link>
<description>A bill would help promote education about the states heritage and cultural history.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Paying for school</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=903</link>
<description>A spouse of deceased service member could be eligible for a tuition waiver.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Getting out of contracts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=904</link>
<description>Proposed legislation would make it easier for 
servicemembers to get out of certain contracts.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 9 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Domestic violence concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=900</link>
<description>Protecting victims of domestic violence is not simply a matter of getting them away from a bad situation.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Combating gang prostitution</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=901</link>
<description>Funds may be given to create a strike force to combat the prostitution of women by Asian gangs.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>An option for Minnesotas youngest uninsured</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=902</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would provide health care to all of Minnesotas uninsured children.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 8 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Purchasing power</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=895</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would allow nonprofit firefighter corporations to buy goods at set prices.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>E85 quandry</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=896</link>
<description>If more E85 fuel were available at the pump would automakers produce more flex-fuel vehicles?</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Embryonic stem cell research</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=897</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill that would pave the way 
for new embryonic stem cell research.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>All-day kindergarten</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=898</link>
<description>Voluntary full-day kindergarten would be funded, under a bill heard by a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Helping local communities plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=899</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would create regional commissions to assist local communities in planning and development.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 7 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>University funding request</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=891</link>
<description>The University of Minnesota differs with the governor on the amount of increased funding for the upcoming biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Family planning funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=892</link>
<description>A bill aimed at helping family planning clinics 
and providers was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Slowing down scrap metal theft</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=893</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that addresses scrap metal theft.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dairy industry production boost</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=894</link>
<description>Two bills that would help the states struggling dairy industry received an informational hearing.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 6 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Report targets fastest growing areas of budget</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=890</link>
<description>The fastest growing expenditures in the next biennium are expected to be in the health and human services area.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 5 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gotta tell them</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=887</link>
<description>Customers interacting with service call centers could have better information security measures.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 2 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Veteran-owned business break</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=888</link>
<description>Veteran-owned and operated businesses could be added to a list of small business groups eligible for government purchasing contracts.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 2 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Free meal with overtime</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=889</link>
<description>Working a double-shift at a veterans home could come with a free meal.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 2 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislator training</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=882</link>
<description>A plan to spend $20,000 for legislator training failed to get past a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Prohibitng water diversions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=883</link>
<description>Minnesota could become the first state to sign a Great 
Lakes water usage compact.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Early childhood funding overview</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=884</link>
<description>A House committee heard about four early childhood programs in the governor's proposed budget.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Arena funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=885</link>
<description>A House division heard about plans for a new arena in Duluth.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Smoking ban</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=886</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would prohibit smoking in many places.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 1 Feb 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Exclusive license for new apple 
leads to procedure changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=878</link>
<description>Task force results on licensing procedures by the University of Minnesota were shared.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Prisoner reentry given priority</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=879</link>
<description>Prisoners released from Minnesota prisons need adequate support as they reenter the outside world.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>The right to transfer</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=880</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would dissolve 
a governmental unit and transfer its belongings to a city.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Child restraint</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=881</link>
<description>Subcommittee approval was given to a bill aimed at keeping children safer in a vehicle.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Department response</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=873</link>
<description>Department of Corrections officials responded to a substance abuse treatment report.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Research dollars on the wish list</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=874</link>
<description>More money for research is on the legislative wish list for 
just about every group representing the states commodities and producers.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tracking quality</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=875</link>
<description>A House committee was shown a web-based option of tracking the quality of 
health care facilities.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>More bucks for bioscience</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=876</link>
<description>A bill approved by a House committee would provide an 
ongoing $15 million a year to a bioscience partnership.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governor signs tax conformity bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=877</link>
<description>Thousands of Minnesotans will benefit from tax credits for 2006 now that the governor has signed the first bill of the session.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Education priorities</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=872</link>
<description>A committee received an overview of proposed education spending in the upcoming biennium.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Protecting Social Security numbers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=871</link>
<description>Division approval was given to a bill that would further restrict the use of Social Security numbers.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Treating substance abusers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=868</link>
<description>A report shows that more attention needs to be paid to substance abuse 
treatment in Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Striving for excellence</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=869</link>
<description>An attempt to create more convenience in government services is well underway.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Repair money</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=870</link>
<description>The states public college and university systems made their annual requests for asset preservation dollars.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Transfer of monies</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=864</link>
<description>The secretary of state could reallocate Help America Vote Act appropriations, under a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Duluth retiree benefits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=865</link>
<description>A bill attempting to curb the impending $300 
million health care liability for retired Duluth city employees was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sharing services</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=866</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would create a committee to study whether to establish South St. Louis Municipality.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Click it or get a ticket</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=867</link>
<description>Everyone in a vehicle may need to buckle up.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Making sure the sentence fits the crime</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=859</link>
<description>A House committee learned how the state decides sentences for felons.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Getting a world-class education</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=860</link>
<description>A group is offering a plan to make Minnesota's education one of the best in the world.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>An emerging threat</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=861</link>
<description>A form of water pollution known as emerging contaminants poses serious new environmental problems.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Health savings account penalty</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=862</link>
<description>Approval was given to a bill that would pull tax incentives from health savings accounts in a certain instance.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Small pharm, big issues</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=863</link>
<description>Legislation aimed at corralling big pharmaceutical 
companies could hurt smaller ones, some say.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pawlenty unveils budget plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=857</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty proposed a $2.9 billion budget increase focusing on education and tax relief.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Making the mark</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=858</link>
<description>A former finance commissioner says there is a fine line between demanding cuts and more government spending.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Making a plea</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=855</link>
<description>Several groups affected by state aid cuts have one plea: Dont make us raise property taxes.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Providing benefits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=856</link>
<description>A commissioner wants to ensure that each returning veteran receives 
the benefits to which she or he is entitled.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Continuing appropriations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=852</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would avoid a state government shutdown.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Educational tax break</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=853</link>
<description>Employers whose pocketbook helps employees further their 
education could get a tax break.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Educational concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=854</link>
<description>American students are falling behind in math and science compared to their counterparts around the rest of the world.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission elimination</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=849</link>
<description>The spirit of bipartisanship superseded the desire for elimination at the first meeting of a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>State of the State</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=850</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty emphasizes education reform in his annual State 
of the State address.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Complaince issues</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=851</link>
<description>Minnesotans are failing to pay more than $1 billion annually in taxes, according to a report.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>U stumps for bioscience funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=847</link>
<description>University of Minnesota officials seek increased state investment in bioscience.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Coverage for all children</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=848</link>
<description>The first bill in the chute this session got its first hearing.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax compliance</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=846</link>
<description>Minnesotans could have more deductions to claim on 2006 tax returns now that the House passed a federal tax conformity bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cost concerns</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=843</link>
<description>A quintet of college students shared their financial woes with a House division.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bioscience industry urges support</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=844</link>
<description>Minnesota must fight to keep its edge in bioscience, experts told a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislator per diem increase</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=845</link>
<description>For the second time in three years, House members are eligible for a per diem increase.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No golden parachutes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=842</link>
<description>A pair of legislators do not believe state money should be used as compensation when coaches fail at their jobs.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>First bills introduced</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=840</link>
<description>The first bills of the 2007 session were introduced during a brief floor session.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Federal conformity</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=841</link>
<description>A bill approved by a House committee could save thousands of Minnesotans money.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>They're back</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=839</link>
<description>The 2007 session got underway with a largely ceremonial day.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 Jan 2007 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sharing their ideas</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=838</link>
<description>Legislative leaders have some similar priorities for the 2007 session.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 12 Dec 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Forecasting good news</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=837</link>
<description>Permanent property tax relief could be on the way for many Minnesotans.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Nov 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>House committee structure and chairs proposed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=835</link>
<description>House committee structure and chairs proposed for 2007-08</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Nov 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Changing of the guard</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=832</link>
<description>House DFLers believe that gaining 19 seats in the House was a referendum on a handful of issues.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 8 Nov 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Sviggum will not seek minority leader position</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=833</link>
<description>Sviggum will not seek role of House minority leader.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 8 Nov 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Majority change in the House</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=834</link>
<description>For the first time since 1998, Democrats will hold a majority of House seats when the 85th Legislature convenes.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 8 Nov 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Notice needs to be given</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=828</link>
<description>A bill that would require strip club owners to give local governments 60 days notice of their intent to open such an establishment awaits action by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Sun, 21 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=826</link>
<description>An omnibus elections bill awaits action by the governor.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 20 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Commission restructuring</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=827</link>
<description>A bill that, in part, would restructure a state commission will go to the governor for his signature.</description>

<pubDate>Sat, 20 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Honeycrisp apple bill passes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=820</link>
<description>A bill to make the Honeycrisp apple the state fruit of Minnesota is headed to the governors desk.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Identity theft protection</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=821</link>
<description>A bill to help consumers address identity theft was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Child support and maintenance provisions modified</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=822</link>
<description>The House passed a bill that would modify child support and maintenance provisions.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ballpark funding plan</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=823</link>
<description>A conference committee voted 9-1 to accept a proposal for construction of a new Twins ballpark.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Golden Gopher football</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=824</link>
<description>An arrangement to fund a new University of 
Minnesota football stadium was approved by a conference committee.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conference committee start</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=825</link>
<description>The transportation conference committee met several times, but with little success.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 19 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Strip club regulations approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=815</link>
<description>Agreement was reached on a bill that would require owners of adults-only live entertainment businesses to give notice to city officials of their intent to open an establishment.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Claims bill approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=816</link>
<description>More than $64,000 would be paid out to settle claims against the state, under a bill approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bad check for tabs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=817</link>
<description>A bill to suspend the license of a person who attempts to pay vehicle taxes and fees with a bad check failed to pass the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Policy provisions passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=818</link>
<description>A bill containing many natural resources policy provisions was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Trying again</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=819</link>
<description>For the first time in six days, members of the capital investment conference committee got together, but the result was similar to other meetings.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 18 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Private school teacher payments</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=810</link>
<description>A bill that would allow private schools to pay their employees like their public school counterparts was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Provisions are passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=811</link>
<description>The annual game and fish bill was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Movement made</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=812</link>
<description>The House loosened its financial grip on the amount of 
supplemental spending it is willing to hand out.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Football facility funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=813</link>
<description>Progress was made by a conference committee discussing a potential University of Minnesota stadium.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 17 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Cost containment language added</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=808</link>
<description>A health care cost containment bill may soon be headed to the Senate — again.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding package gets House OK</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=809</link>
<description>After nearly six hours of debate, the House passed its omnibus transportation finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 16 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Clean Water Legacy Act</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=804</link>
<description>Legislation creating a Clean Water Legacy Act was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Eminent domain bill re-passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=805</link>
<description>A bill that would curb governments authority to use eminent domain powers is one step closer to being law.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Available vaccine</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=806</link>
<description>Legislation intended to make sure flu vaccines are available to the people who need them was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Wild rice research</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=807</link>
<description>A bill directing two departments to report on the need for a study concerning natural wild rice in Minnesota received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Stadia discussion begins</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=802</link>
<description>A conference committee began its discussion on potential ballpark and stadium funding.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Not yet complete</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=803</link>
<description>With member ire increasing the Capital Investment Conference Committee was 
unable to finish its work.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 12 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Prohibiting clock-hour meter tampering</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=799</link>
<description>A bill that makes tampering with tractor clock hours illegal and punishable by civil penalties was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Highway designation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=800</link>
<description>A bill that would designate portions of Interstates 35, 35E and 35W as the Shawn Silvera Memorial Highway was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Increasing quality</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=801</link>
<description>A bill addressing a collection of long term and continuing care issues received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 11 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=797</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to an omnibus jobs and economic opportunity finance bill.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Financing plan approved</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=798</link>
<description>A House committee approved a transportation funding package, minus a gas tax increase.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 10 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Proof of citizenship to vote</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=795</link>
<description>Voters may be required to present a photo identification at the polling place if a bill passed by the House becomes law.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Civil liability regulation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=796</link>
<description>Private companies performing public services would receive the same kind of liability protection as governmental entities.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 9 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Birth certificate</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=793</link>
<description>A clean birth certificate would be given to parents no matter how long their child lives, under a bill receiving House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gambling changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=794</link>
<description>Increasing the number of tables at the Canterbury Park Card Club was not included in a gaming bill approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 8 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding plan OK'd</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=791</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to an omnibus transportation finance bill that includes an increase in the gasoline excise tax rate.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Senate offer made</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=792</link>
<description>In hopes of reaching consensus on some items, Senate bonding conferees offered a funding proposal.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 5 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Construction regulation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=788</link>
<description>House members hope to protect homeowners from faulty construction work.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Memorial plaques passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=789</link>
<description>The House passed a pair of bills that would honor veterans groups with two memorial plaques.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Another House offer</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=790</link>
<description>House capital investment conferees have put forth another offer in hopes of getting some agreement on what will become the final package.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 4 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Voter clearinghouse</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=784</link>
<description>A bill that would create a central address for the receipt of absentee ballot applications and absentee ballots was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Football funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=785</link>
<description>A proposal for a new Vikings football stadium and entertainment complex in Anoka County was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Conference committee conflict</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=786</link>
<description>The capital investment conference committee again agreed to disagree.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax preparation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=787</link>
<description>Work on the long-awaited omnibus tax bill has begun.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 3 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Property tax rebate</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=783</link>
<description>A one-time property tax rebate bill was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 2 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funeral protests</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=780</link>
<description>An approved conference committee report would criminalize the intentional disruption of a funeral service.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Mercury emissions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=781</link>
<description>A bill to govern the reduction in mercury emissions from 
six coal-fired electric generating units was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Supplemental bill passed</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=782</link>
<description>The House approved an $88.9 million supplemental spending bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 1 May 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Eminent domain bill closer to completion</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=779</link>
<description>A joint House and Senate conference committee reached agreement on some provisions of the sessions eminent domain reform bill.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 28 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>A different path</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=776</link>
<description>Two bills incorporated into a now-stalled omnibus state government finance bill were passed as standalone bills by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 27 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Organ donation awareness</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=777</link>
<description>Approval was given to a bill that would expand Minnesotas driver education curriculum to include organ and tissue donation information.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 27 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Abortion notification data reporting</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=778</link>
<description>A controversial abortion bill received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 27 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ballpark deal</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=775</link>
<description>The House approved a plan to fund a new ballpark for the Minnesota Twins.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 26 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=774</link>
<description>The House passed a bill that would dedicate money to the environment and other areas.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 25 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus liquor law</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=770</link>
<description>The banning of a machine designed to give a quicker high is part of the omnibus liquor bill approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 24 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Malpractice suits</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=771</link>
<description>A bill on the House floor would regulate expert testimonies in malpractice actions against health care providers.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 24 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Annexation reform</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=772</link>
<description>The House passed an annexation reform bill 133-0.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 24 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>To the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=773</link>
<description>The chance of the Minnesota Twins attaining their biggest win in years 
keeps improving.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 24 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Legislative dispute</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=767</link>
<description>What appeared to be a simple motion turned into a debate about cooperation between House leaders.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Eminent domain discussion begins</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=768</link>
<description>A conference committee began its work on a proposed eminent domain reform bill.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ballpark funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=769</link>
<description>A plan to help fund a new ballpark for the Minnesota Twins has cleared, what some say, is its toughest hurdle.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Percent funding to floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=764</link>
<description>A bill that would dedicate part of the states sales tax is headed to the House floor in its original form.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 20 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Chemical health treatment</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=765</link>
<description>A bill providing for interstate contracts for chemical health services received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 20 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Defining homeowner's coverage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=766</link>
<description>A bill regulating home-based adult foster care services insurance coverage received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 20 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Health care access</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=761</link>
<description>A bill could provide greater MinnesotaCare benefits.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>To the floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=762</link>
<description>The omnibus higher education finance bill is headed for the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ballpark funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=763</link>
<description>A key vote on the proposed Minnesota Twins ballpark could come before the week is out.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 19 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus finance bill tabled</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=760</link>
<description>An omnibus state government finance bill was tabled after several hours of debate</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 18 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Capital investment approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=758</link>
<description>A capital investment bill was overwhelmingly approved by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 12 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funding bill held over</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=759</link>
<description>Debate began on the omnibus state government finance bill, but it will not be voted on until after Easter.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 12 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Claims bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=755</link>
<description>A bill headed for the House floor would appropriate more than $64,000 to settle 15 claims against the state.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Public employee retirement benefits modified</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=756</link>
<description>An omnibus pension bill modifying public employees retirement benefits received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Omnibus bill approval</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=757</link>
<description>The House Education Finance Committee approved its omnibus bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 11 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Tax rebate?</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=752</link>
<description>Minnesota homeowners could receive a rebate on their 2006 property taxes.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Money for Rochester campus</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=753</link>
<description>The House Higher Education Finance Committee approved its $4.8 million omnibus bill.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Longer residency requirement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=754</link>
<description>A 90-day residency requirement may be required for receipt of full benefits under certain human services programs.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 10 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Farm enhancement loans</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=747</link>
<description>A farm enhancement loan program may be established to aid young farmers.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Amendment modification</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=748</link>
<description>A pair of bills would modify the proposed constitutional amendment dedicating all motor vehicle sales tax revenue to transportation.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Expanding boundaries</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=749</link>
<description>A bill concerning township mutual insurance company restrictions was passed by the House.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Eminent domain bill passes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=750</link>
<description>The House passed the bill that would restrict governments 
use of eminent domain to take private property.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gopher stadium bill</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=751</link>
<description>The House approved a plan for a new football stadium for the University of Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 6 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Restore market value credit cuts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=743</link>
<description>A bill would reimburse 103 cities for the agricultural and homestead market value credit they did not receive.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Hybrid electric vehicle task force</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=744</link>
<description>A proposal for a St. Paul Ford plant enhancement commission is now a general task force for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fee modification</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=745</link>
<description>A bill that would modify child care assistance parent fees was heard by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>English proficiency</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=746</link>
<description>English pronunciation policy could be required as a condition of instructing students at public postsecondary institutions.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 5 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Plan unveiled</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=739</link>
<description>A nearly $1 billion bonding bill was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Building moratorium</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=740</link>
<description>A proposed building moratorium could affect some Minnesota school districts.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>On deck</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=741</link>
<description>One day before the Minnesota Twins home opener a House committee is scheduled to hear a baseball park bill.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Free admission</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=742</link>
<description>Veterans and active duty military personnel may be allowed to enjoy state parks for free.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 4 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Class is in session</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=317</link>
<description>Members of a House committee received a crash course in debt management.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Eminent domain to floor</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=736</link>
<description>A bill that would limit the use of eminent domain is headed to the House floor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Solemnization of marriage</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=737</link>
<description>A bill would authorize the solemnization of marriage, consistent with existing marriage law requirements, by a mej koob.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Improving teacher training programs</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=738</link>
<description>A report card for colleges and universities that offer teacher preparation programs could be created.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 3 Apr 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Fluid conversion allowance program</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=731</link>
<description>An allowance program could be created to help offset the cost of transitioning to soy-based transformer fluid.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Neglecting vulnerable adults</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=732</link>
<description>Tougher penalties could be in store for family members who mistreat a vulnerable adult.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Biomedical research facilities</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=733</link>
<description>The University of Minnesota seeks funds to uphold the state as a leader in the biomedical sciences field.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Climate-neutral buildings</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=734</link>
<description>New state-funded buildings could be forbidden from producing a net increase in greenhouse gases.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Preserving aggregate</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=735</link>
<description>A bill calls for the establishment of an aggregate resource preservation property tax program.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 30 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Trying again</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=728</link>
<description>Two days after the House rejected the first budget resolution, a House committee approved a similar measure.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Imposing a fee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=729</link>
<description>Minneapolis could be authorized to impose a park 
dedication fee on all new housing units within city limits.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Gopher football stadium</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=730</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a plan that would return Gopher football to campus.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 29 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bomb squad reimbusement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=724</link>
<description>A bill to provide an additional $52,000 to fund bomb squads that service the state was heard by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bill testimony</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=725</link>
<description>A week after the Senate capital investment bill was unveiled, a House committee took testimony on the plan.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Restraint system modifications</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=726</link>
<description>Child passenger restraint system training requirements face 
some possible modifications.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Helping disabled voters</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=727</link>
<description>Townships would no longer have to provide special voting 
equipment for disabled voters, under a bill heard by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 28 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Telling your parents</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=720</link>
<description>Parents could be notified if their college student is involved in underage drinking or
illegal drug use.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 27 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Financial aid exemptions</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=721</link>
<description>New exemptions could help some people qualify for state financial aid programs when residency is a factor.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 27 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Zone creation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=722</link>
<description>Additional biotechnology and health sciences industry zones could be created.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 27 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Alternative teacher licensure</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=723</link>
<description>A bill that would have created a fast-track training program for mid-career professionals to become teachers in certain fields was rejected by the full House.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 27 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Strip clubs must notify cities</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=590</link>
<description>Proprietors of adults-only live entertainment businesses would need to notify local officials of their intent to open such establishments.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 27 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Learning Chinese</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=718</link>
<description>Minnesota students may have a greater opportunity to learn the Chinese language and culture.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 24 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Back in the ring</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=719</link>
<description>A House committee approved a bill to re-establish a state boxing commission.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 24 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Helping the homeless</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=715</link>
<description>A bill would appropriate $650,000 toward implementing a statewide Homeless Management Information System and a capacity building grant for the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 23 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Outfitting state patrol cars</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=716</link>
<description>A bill seeks $430,000 for the purchase of automated external defibrillators for all Minnesota State Patrol vehicles.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 23 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>DECC funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=717</link>
<description>A bill would permit Duluth to increase its food and beverage sales tax to help fund a new arena.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 23 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Free parking in parks</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=711</link>
<description>People attending a church service in a state park may be able to park free.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 22 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Meth education</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=712</link>
<description>A bill to reduce a statewide problem would educate methamphetamine offenders on the dangers of the drug.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 22 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Protections for seniors</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=713</link>
<description>Minnesota could undertake steps to protect senior citizens from financial exploitation.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 22 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Banning a party machine</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=714</link>
<description>A device billed as the ultimate party machine could be banned in Minnesota.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 22 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Splitting districts</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=704</link>
<description>A bill opened discussion on whether splitting a school district is a local decision or one to be made by the Legislature.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Victim notification rights</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=707</link>
<description>Victims of criminal sexual misconduct may be given the same notification if charges are not filed against a defendant.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Health care cost and efficiency</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=708</link>
<description>The work of the House Health Care Cost Containment Division is gaining momentum.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Committee green-lights renovations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=709</link>
<description>The State Capitol and Ford Building could undergo much-needed renovations if a bill approved by a House committee becomes law.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Clean Water Legacy Act changes</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=710</link>
<description>Changes could be in store for the proposed Clean Water Legacy Act.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Governors supplemental budget</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=705</link>
<description>Gov. Tim Pawlenty recommends allocating 60 percent of 
the current available $405 million general fund balance to initiatives and 40 
percent to reserves.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Higher education bonding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=706</link>
<description>The House Higher Education Finance Committee 
approved $486.5 million in capital budget requests for the University of 
Minnesota and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Staggered terms</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=703</link>
<description>If enacted into law, beginning in 
2012, senators elected from off-numbered districts would serve a pattern of 
2-4-4 year terms each decade.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Vikings stadium proposal</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=702</link>
<description>Officials pitched a new Vikings stadium and entertainment complex in Blaine to a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 17 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=698</link>
<description>More deliberations are in store for a bill that seeks to dedicate a percent of the states sales and use tax for environmental conservation.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Child pornography sentences</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=699</link>
<description>A bill tabled by a House committee would set minimum sentences for people disseminating, possessing or manufacturing child pornography.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Reeling in the film industry</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=700</link>
<description>Minnesota hopes to lure more of Hollywoods big bucks by offering tax credits to film producers.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Suspended without pay</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=701</link>
<description>School districts could suspend a teacher without pay if the teacher is charged with a felony, under to a bill approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 16 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Proof of citizenship to vote</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=694</link>
<description>People registering to vote may need to supply proof of citizenship and photo identification.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Honoring Hmong soldiers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=695</link>
<description>A statue commemorating the service of Hmong soldiers who fought for the United States during the Vietnam War could become a permanent fixture in the Capitol complex.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bonding recommendations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=696</link>
<description>A House committee completed its recommendations for $63 million in 
bonding requests for Minnesota schools.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Bioscience initiative</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=697</link>
<description>Greater Minnesota communities hope to join the ranks of growing bioscience areas.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 15 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Dedicated funding</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=690</link>
<description>A bill to raise the sales and use tax and dedicate the resulting revenue to 
environmental concerns was approved by a House committee.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Ball rolling on biomedical facilities</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=691</link>
<description>Funding for new University of Minnesota biomedical research facilities received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Prevention act</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=692</link>
<description>Committee approval was given to a bill that would establish 
the Minnesota Starvation and Dehydration of Persons with Disabilities Act.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Special education placement</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=693</link>
<description>A bill would allow districts to re-evaluate student appropriateness for special education, if they take reasonable measures to obtain consent, but the parent failed to respond.</description>

<pubDate>Tue, 14 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Encouraging cooperation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=688</link>
<description>A bill prohibiting local governments from preventing their employees from cooperating with immigration officials is stronger.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 13 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Collegiate bonding requests</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=689</link>
<description>The University of Minnesota and the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system seek nearly $500 million combined for capital investment.</description>

<pubDate>Mon, 13 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Online wagering</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=685</link>
<description>Minnesotans may be able to bet on horses from their houses.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 10 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Flood mitigation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=686</link>
<description>A House committee heard four proposals seeking funds to mitigate flooding.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 10 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Incorporation/annexation bill fails in committee</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=687</link>
<description>A bill that would have shielded a metro area 
township from annexation failed to receive committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Fri, 10 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>No new fees for state forests</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=680</link>
<description>Legislators wary of raising user fees on state forestland removed a provision from a bill.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 9 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Training teachers</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=681</link>
<description>Mid-career professionals in key fields could become licensed teachers in a new fast-track training program.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 9 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>ATV trail designation</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=682</link>
<description>A plan was discussed to develop approximately 50 miles of the Northshore State Trail for ATV use.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 9 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Code of conduct</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=683</link>
<description>A code of conduct and ethics for all licensed Minnesota assessors has been implemented.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 9 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Funeral protests</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=684</link>
<description>A bill to prohibit the willful and knowing disruption of a funeral, burial or memorial service received House approval.</description>

<pubDate>Thu, 9 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Pharmacists Right of Refusal</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=674</link>
<description>A bill that would give pharmacists the right to refuse prescribed treatment by doctors received committee approval.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 8 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>MAC oversight</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=675</link>
<description>A bill to increase legislative oversight of the Metropolitan Airports Commission was approved by a committee.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 8 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Statute of limitations</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=676</link>
<description>How long should the window be left open for minors to seek retribution from perpetrators of sexual abuse?</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 8 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Keeping students safe</title>
<link>http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sessiondaily.asp?storyid=677</link>
<description>Schools may be required to create lockdown plans to 
respond to school shootings and other acts of violence involving K-12 students.</description>

<pubDate>Wed, 8 Mar 2006 00:00:01 EST</pubDate>
<skiphours>3</skiphours>

</item>
<item>
<title>Where to build</title>
<link>