SF 1057

1st Engrossment - 88th Legislature (2013 - 2014) Posted on 04/22/2013 08:39am

A bill for an act
relating to state government; proposing the governor's budget for jobs and
economic development; increasing certain fees; streamlining construction
inspections; creating the Minnesota job creation fund; expanding the Minnesota
Trade Offices; creating STEP grants; reducing the unemployment insurance
tax; creating the transportation economic development assistance program;
repealing the Minnesota Science and Technology Authority; requiring reports;
appropriating money to various departments, agencies, and boards; amending
Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 116J.8731, subdivisions 2, 3; 326B.184,
subdivisions 1, 2, by adding a subdivision; 326B.37, by adding a subdivision;
326B.49, subdivisions 2, 3; 341.321; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota
Statutes, chapter 116J; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 116W.01;
116W.02; 116W.03; 116W.035; 116W.04; 116W.05; 116W.06; 116W.20;
116W.21; 116W.23; 116W.24; 116W.25; 116W.26; 116W.27; 116W.28; 116W.29;
116W.30; 116W.31; 116W.32; 116W.33; 116W.34; Minnesota Rules, part
1307.0032.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

ARTICLE 1

APPROPRIATIONS

Section 1. new text begin JOBS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The amounts shown in this section summarize direct appropriations, by fund, made
in this article.
new text end

		new text begin 2014 new text end		new text begin 2015 new text end		new text begin Total new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 149,962,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 136,916,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 286,878,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end		new text begin 17,451,000 new text end		new text begin 17,451,000 new text end		new text begin 34,902,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end		new text begin 700,000 new text end		new text begin 700,000 new text end		new text begin 1,400,000 new text end
new text begin Workers' Compensation new text end		new text begin 22,784,000 new text end		new text begin 22,574,000 new text end		new text begin 45,358,000 new text end
new text begin Total new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 190,897,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 177,641,000 new text end	new text begin $ new text end	new text begin 368,538,000 new text end

Sec. 2. new text begin JOBS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are appropriated to the
agencies and for the purposes specified in this article. The appropriations are from the
general fund, or another named fund, and are available for the fiscal years indicated
for each purpose. The figures "2014" and "2015" used in this article mean that the
appropriations listed under them are available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, or
June 30, 2015, respectively. "The first year" is fiscal year 2014. "The second year" is fiscal
year 2015. "The biennium" is fiscal years 2014 and 2015.
new text end

			new text begin APPROPRIATIONS new text end
			new text begin Available for the Year new text end
			new text begin Ending June 30 new text end
				new text begin 2014 new text end		new text begin 2015 new text end

Sec. 3. new text begin DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end new text begin Total Appropriation new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 84,440,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 84,440,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 67,318,000 new text end	new text begin 67,318,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin 700,000 new text end	new text begin 700,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end	new text begin 16,422,000 new text end	new text begin 16,422,000 new text end

new text begin The amounts that may be spent for each
purpose are specified in the following
subdivisions.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end new text begin Business and Community Development new text end

new text begin 38,481,000 new text end

new text begin 38,481,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 37,442,000 new text end	new text begin 37,442,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end	new text begin 700,000 new text end	new text begin 700,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end	new text begin 339,000 new text end	new text begin 339,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $15,000,000 each year is for the
Minnesota Investment Fund under
Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.8731. This
appropriation is available until spent.
new text end

new text begin (b) $12,500,000 each year is for the
Minnesota job creation fund under Minnesota
Statutes, section 116J.8748. Of this amount,
the commissioner of employment and
economic development may use up to three
percent for administrative expenses. This
appropriation is available until spent.
new text end

new text begin (c) $1,272,000 the first year and $1,272,000
the second year are from the general fund for
contaminated site cleanup and development
grants under Minnesota Statutes, sections
116J.551 to 116J.558.
new text end

new text begin (d) $700,000 the first year and $700,000 the
second year are from the remediation fund for
contaminated site cleanup and development
grants under Minnesota Statutes, sections
116J.551 to 116J.558. This appropriation is
available until expended.
new text end

new text begin (e) $757,000 the first year and $757,000
the second year are from the general
fund and $339,000 the first year and
$339,000 the second year are from the
workforce development fund for the business
development competitive grant program.
new text end

new text begin (f) $4,195,000 each year is from the general
fund for the Minnesota job skills partnership
program under Minnesota Statutes, sections
116L.01 to 116L.17. If the appropriation for
either year is insufficient, the appropriation
for the other year is available. This
appropriation is available until spent.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end new text begin Workforce Development new text end

new text begin 10,083,000 new text end

new text begin 10,083,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 830,000 new text end	new text begin 830,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end	new text begin 9,253,000 new text end	new text begin 9,253,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $830,000 each year from the general fund
and $1,905,000 each year from the workforce
development fund is for the adult workforce
development competitive grant program.
new text end

new text begin (b) $3,500,000 each year is from the
workforce development fund for the
Minnesota youth program under Minnesota
Statutes, sections 116L.56 and 116L.561.
new text end

new text begin (c) $1,000,000 each year is from the
workforce development fund for the
youthbuild program under Minnesota
Statutes, sections 116L.361 to 116L.366.
new text end

new text begin (d) $2,848,000 each year is from the
workforce development fund for the youth
workforce development competitive grant
program.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end new text begin General Support Services new text end

new text begin 1,018,000 new text end

new text begin 1,018,000 new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end new text begin Minnesota Trade Office new text end

new text begin 2,242,000 new text end

new text begin 2,242,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $300,000 in fiscal year 2014 and $300,000
in fiscal year 2015 are for the STEP grants in
Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.979.
new text end

new text begin (b) $180,000 in fiscal year 2014 and
$180,000 in fiscal year 2015 are for the Invest
Minnesota marketing initiative in Minnesota
Statutes, section 116J.9801. Notwithstanding
any other law, this provision does not expire.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end new text begin Vocational Rehabilitation new text end

new text begin 26,691,000 new text end

new text begin 26,691,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 19,861,000 new text end	new text begin 19,861,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end	new text begin 6,830,000 new text end	new text begin 6,830,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $10,800,000 each year is from the general
fund for the state's vocational rehabilitation
program under Minnesota Statutes, chapter
268A.
new text end

new text begin (b) $2,261,000 each year is from the general
fund for grants to centers for independent
living under Minnesota Statutes, section
268A.11.
new text end

new text begin (c) $5,245,000 each year from the general
fund and $6,830,000 each year from the
workforce development fund is for extended
employment services for persons with severe
disabilities under Minnesota Statutes, section
268A.16.
new text end

new text begin (d) $1,555,000 each year is from the general
fund for grants to programs that provide
employment support services to persons with
mental illness under Minnesota Statutes,
sections 268A.13 and 268A.14.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end new text begin Services for the Blind new text end

new text begin 5,925,000 new text end

new text begin 5,925,000 new text end

Sec. 4. new text begin HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end new text begin Total Appropriation new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 51,048,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 38,048,000 new text end

new text begin The amounts that may be spent for each
purpose are specified in the following
subdivisions.
new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for transfer to the
housing development fund for the programs
specified in this section. Except as otherwise
indicated, this transfer is part of the agency's
permanent budget base.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end new text begin Challenge Program new text end

new text begin 16,955,000 new text end

new text begin 6,955,000 new text end

new text begin (a) This appropriation is for the economic
development and housing challenge program
under Minnesota Statutes, section 462A.33.
Of this amount, $1,208,000 each year shall
be made available during the first 11 months
of the fiscal year exclusively for housing
projects for American Indians. Any funds not
committed to housing projects for American
Indians in the first 11 months of the fiscal year
shall be available for any eligible activity
under Minnesota Statues, section 462A.33.
new text end

new text begin (b) Of this amount, $10,000,000 is a onetime
appropriation and is targeted for housing in
communities and regions that have:
new text end

new text begin (1)(i) low housing vacancy rates; and
new text end

new text begin (ii) cooperatively developed a plan that
identifies current and future housing needs;
and
new text end

new text begin (2)(i) experienced job growth since 2005 and
have at least 2,000 jobs within the commuter
shed;
new text end

new text begin (ii) evidence of anticipated job expansion; or
new text end

new text begin (iii) a significant portion of area employees
who commute more than 30 miles between
their residence and their employment.
new text end

new text begin (c) Preference must be given among
comparable housing proposals to proposals
that include a meaningful contribution from
area employers that reduces the need for
deferred loan or grant funds from state
resources.
new text end

new text begin (d) The base funding for this program in the
2016-2017 biennium is $6,955,000 each year.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end new text begin Housing Trust Fund new text end

new text begin 12,555,000 new text end

new text begin 9,555,000 new text end

new text begin (a) This appropriation is for deposit in the
housing trust fund account created under
Minnesota Statutes, section 462A.201, and
may be used for the purposes provided in
that section.
new text end

new text begin (b) Of this amount, $2,000,000 is a onetime
appropriation for temporary rental assistance
for families with school-age children who
have changed school or home at least
once in the last school year. The agency,
in consultation with the Department of
Education, may establish additional targeting
criteria.
new text end

new text begin (c) Of this amount, $1,000,000 is a onetime
appropriation for temporary rental assistance
for adults who are in the process of being
released from state correctional facilities
or on supervised release in the community
who are homeless or at risk of becoming
homeless. The agency, in consultation with
the Department of Corrections, may establish
additional targeting criteria to identify
those adults most at risk of reentering state
correctional facilities.
new text end

new text begin (d) The base funding for this program in fiscal
years 2016 and 2017 is $9,555,000 each year.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end new text begin Rental Assistance for Mentally Ill new text end

new text begin 2,638,000 new text end

new text begin 2,638,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for the rental housing
assistance program under Minnesota
Statutes, section 462A.2097.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end new text begin Family Homeless Prevention new text end

new text begin 7,465,000 new text end

new text begin 7,465,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for the family homeless
prevention and assistance programs under
Minnesota Statutes, section 462A.204.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end new text begin Home Ownership Assistance Fund new text end

new text begin 797,000 new text end

new text begin 797,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for the home ownership
assistance program under Minnesota
Statutes, section 462A.21, subdivision 8.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end new text begin Affordable Rental Investment Fund new text end

new text begin 4,218,834 new text end

new text begin 4,218,834 new text end

new text begin (a) This appropriation is for the affordable
rental investment fund program under
Minnesota Statutes, section 462A.21,
subdivision 8b, to finance the acquisition,
rehabilitation, and debt restructuring of
federally assisted rental property and for
making equity takeout loans under Minnesota
Statutes, section 462A.05, subdivision 39.
new text end

new text begin (b) The owner of federally assisted rental
property must agree to participate in
the applicable federally assisted housing
program and to extend any existing
low-income affordability restrictions on the
housing for the maximum term permitted.
The owner must also enter into an agreement
that gives local units of government,
housing and redevelopment authorities,
and nonprofit housing organizations the
right of first refusal if the rental property
is offered for sale. Priority must be given
among comparable federally assisted rental
properties to properties with the longest
remaining term under an agreement for
federal assistance. Priority must also be
given among comparable rental housing
developments to developments that are or
will be owned by local government units, a
housing and redevelopment authority, or a
nonprofit housing organization.
new text end

new text begin (c) The appropriation also may be used to
finance the acquisition, rehabilitation, and
debt restructuring of existing supportive
housing properties. For purposes of this
subdivision, "supportive housing" means
affordable rental housing with links to
services necessary for individuals, youth, and
families with children to maintain housing
stability.
new text end

new text begin (d) The base funding for the affordable rental
investment fund program under Minnesota
Statutes, section 462A.21, subdivision 8b,
in fiscal years 2016 and 2017, is $8,996,000
each year.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end new text begin Housing Rehabilitation new text end

new text begin 5,543,166 new text end

new text begin 5,543,166 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for the housing
rehabilitation program under Minnesota
Statutes, section 462A.05, subdivision 14.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end new text begin Homeownership Education, Counseling, and Training new text end

new text begin 751,000 new text end

new text begin 751,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for the homeownership
education, counseling, and training program
under Minnesota Statutes, section 462A.209.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end new text begin Capacity-Building Grants new text end

new text begin 125,000 new text end

new text begin 125,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for nonprofit
capacity-building grants under Minnesota
Statutes, section 462A.21, subdivision 3b.
new text end

Sec. 5. new text begin DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end new text begin Total Appropriation new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 22,866,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 22,866,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
	new text begin 2014 new text end	new text begin 2015 new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 966,000 new text end	new text begin 966,000 new text end
new text begin Workers' Compensation new text end	new text begin 20,871,000 new text end	new text begin 20,871,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end	new text begin 1,029,000 new text end	new text begin 1,029,000 new text end

new text begin The amounts that may be spent for each
purpose are specified in the following
subdivisions.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end new text begin Workers' Compensation new text end

new text begin 10,678,000 new text end

new text begin 10,678,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the workers'
compensation fund.
new text end

new text begin $200,000 each year is for grants to the
Vinland Center for rehabilitation services.
Grants shall be distributed as the department
refers injured workers to the Vinland Center
for rehabilitation services.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end new text begin Labor Standards and Apprenticeship new text end

new text begin 1,995,000 new text end

new text begin 1,995,000 new text end

new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end	new text begin 966,000 new text end	new text begin 966,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end	new text begin 1,029,000 new text end	new text begin 1,029,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $816,000 each year is from the
general fund for the labor standards and
apprenticeship program.
new text end

new text begin (b) $150,000 each year is from the general
fund for a child labor initiative for expanding
education and outreach to high schools and
targeted industries to ensure minors entering
the workforce are safe.
new text end

new text begin (c) $879,000 each year is appropriated from
the workforce development fund for the
apprenticeship program under Minnesota
Statutes, chapter 178, and includes $100,000
for labor education and advancement
program grants and to expand and promote
registered apprenticeship training in
nonconstruction trade programs.
new text end

new text begin (d) $150,000 each year is appropriated
from the workforce development fund for
prevailing wage enforcement.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end new text begin Workplace Safety new text end

new text begin 4,154,000 new text end

new text begin 4,154,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the workers'
compensation fund.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end new text begin General Support new text end

new text begin 6,039,000 new text end

new text begin 6,039,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the workers'
compensation fund.
new text end

Sec. 6. new text begin EXPLORE MINNESOTA TOURISM new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 16,225,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 16,225,000 new text end

new text begin (a) Of this amount, $12,000 each year is for a
grant to the Upper Minnesota Film Office.
new text end

new text begin (b)(1) To develop maximum private sector
involvement in tourism, $500,000 in fiscal
year 2014 and $500,000 in fiscal year 2015
must be matched by Explore Minnesota
Tourism from nonstate sources. Each $1 of
state incentive must be matched with $6 of
private sector funding. Cash match is defined
as revenue to the state or documented cash
expenditures directly expended to support
Explore Minnesota Tourism programs. Up
to one-half of the private sector contribution
may be in-kind or soft match. The incentive
in fiscal year 2014 shall be based on fiscal
year 2013 private sector contributions. The
incentive in fiscal year 2015 shall be based on
fiscal year 2014 private sector contributions.
This incentive is ongoing.
new text end

new text begin (2) Funding for the marketing grants is
available either year of the biennium.
Unexpended grant funds from the first year
are available in the second year.
new text end

new text begin (3) Unexpended money from the general
fund appropriations made under this section
does not cancel but must be placed in a
special marketing account for use by Explore
Minnesota Tourism for additional marketing
activities.
new text end

new text begin (c) $325,000 in fiscal year 2014 and $325,000
in fiscal year 2015 are for the Minnesota
Film and TV Board. The appropriation in
each year is available only upon receipt by
the board of $1 in matching contributions
of money or in-kind contributions from
nonstate sources for every $3 provided by
this appropriation, except that each year up
$50,000 is available on July 1 even if the
required matching contribution has not been
received by that date.
new text end

Sec. 7. new text begin DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 10,000,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 10,000,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for the transportation
economic development program under
Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.4365.
new text end

Sec. 8. new text begin BUREAU OF MEDIATION SERVICES new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 1,848,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 1,802,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $68,000 each year is for grants to area
labor management committees. Grants may
be awarded for a 12-month period beginning
July 1 each year. Any unencumbered balance
remaining at the end of the first year does not
cancel but is available for the second year.
new text end

new text begin (b) $100,000 in fiscal year 2014 is
appropriated from the general fund to the
Bureau of Mediation Services for transfer
to the Office of Enterprise Technology to
develop a new business management system
for case and document management. This is
a onetime appropriation and is available for
spending until June 30, 2015. Any ongoing
information technology support or costs for
this application will be incorporated into the
service level agreement and will be paid to
the Office of Enterprise Technology by the
Bureau of Mediation Services under the rates
and mechanism specified in that agreement.
Of this amount, $25,000 each year is added
to the Bureau of Mediation Services base
budget to cover the information technology
support costs for this application.
new text end

Sec. 9. new text begin BOARD OF ACCOUNTANCY new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 480,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 480,000 new text end

Sec. 10. new text begin BOARD OF ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING, LAND SURVEYING, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE, GEOSCIENCE, AND INTERIOR DESIGN new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 774,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 774,000 new text end

Sec. 11. new text begin BOARD OF COSMETOLOGIST EXAMINERS new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 1,046,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 1,046,000 new text end

Sec. 12. new text begin BOARD OF BARBER EXAMINERS new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 257,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 257,000 new text end

Sec. 13. new text begin WORKERS' COMPENSATION COURT OF APPEALS new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 1,913,000 new text end

new text begin $ new text end

new text begin 1,703,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the workers'
compensation fund.
new text end

new text begin Of this appropriation, $110,000 is a
onetime appropriation and is available for
spending until June 30, 2015. $110,000 in
fiscal year 2014 is appropriated from the
workers' compensation fund to the Workers'
Compensation Court of Appeals for transfer
to the Office of Enterprise Technology to
develop a paperless case management system
and to ensure that services and hardware
are accessible and compatible with systems
with which the Workers' Compensation
Court of Appeals must interact. This is a
onetime appropriation and is available for
spending until June 30, 2015. Any ongoing
information technology support or costs for
this application will be incorporated into the
service level agreement and will be paid to
the Office of Enterprise Technology by the
Workers' Compensation Court of Appeals
under the rates and mechanism specified in
that agreement.
new text end

ARTICLE 2

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326B.184, subdivision 1, is amended to
read:

Subdivision 1.

Permits.

No person may construct, install, alter, new text begin repair, new text end or remove
an elevator without first filing an application for a permit with the department or a
municipality authorized by subdivision 4 to inspect elevators. new text begin A permit issued by the
department is valid for work commenced within 12 months of application and completed
within two years of application. Where no work is commenced within 12 months of
application, an applicant may cancel the permit and request a refund of inspection fees.
new text end

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326B.184, is amended by adding a
subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 1a. new text end

new text begin Department permit and inspection fees. new text end

new text begin (a) The department permit and
inspection fees to construct, install, alter, repair, or remove an elevator are as follows:
new text end

new text begin (1) the permit fee is $100;
new text end

new text begin (2) the inspection fee is 0.015 of the total cost of the permitted work for labor and
materials, including related electrical and mechanical equipment. The inspection fee
covers two inspections. The inspection fee for additional inspections is $80 per hour;
new text end

new text begin (3) when inspections scheduled by the permit submitter are not able to be completed
because the work is not complete, a fee equal to two hours at the hourly rate of $80 must
be paid by the permit submitter; and
new text end

new text begin (4) when the owner or permit holder requests inspections be performed outside of
normal work hours or on weekends or holidays, an hourly rate of $120 in addition to
the inspection fee must be paid.
new text end

new text begin (b) The department fees for inspection of existing elevators when requested by the
elevator owner or as a result of an accident resulting in personal injury are at an hourly rate
of $80 during normal work hours or $120 outside of normal work hours or on weekends or
holidays, with a one-hour minimum.
new text end

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326B.184, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Operating permits and fees; periodic inspections.

(a) No person may
operate an elevator without first obtaining an annual operating permit from the department
or a municipality authorized by subdivision 4 to issue annual operating permits. A $100
annual operating permit fee must be paid to the department for each annual operating
permit issued by the department, except that the original annual operating permit must
be included in the permit fee for the initial installation of the elevator. Annual operating
permits must be issued at 12-month intervals from the date of the initial annual operating
permit. For each subsequent year, an owner must be granted an annual operating permit
for the elevator upon the owner's or owner's agent's submission of a form prescribed by
the commissioner and payment of the $100 fee. Each form must include the location of
the elevator, the results of any periodic test required by the code, and any other criteria
established by rule. An annual operating permit may be revoked by the commissioner upon
an audit of the periodic testing results submitted with the application or a failure to comply
with elevator code requirements, inspections, or any other law related to elevators. Except
for an initial operating permit fee, hand-powered manlifts and electric endless belt manlifts new text begin ,
new text end new text begin and vertical reciprocating conveyors new text end are not subject to a subsequent operating permit fee.

(b) All elevators are subject to periodic inspections by the department or a
municipality authorized by subdivision 4 to perform periodic inspections, except that
hand-powered manlifts and electric endless belt manlifts are exempt from periodic
inspections. Periodic inspections by the department shall be performed at the following
intervals:

(1) a special purpose personnel elevator is subject to inspection not more than once
every five years;

(2) an elevator located within a house of worship that does not have attached school
facilities is subject to inspection not more than once every three years; and

(3) all other elevators are subject to inspection not more than once each year.

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326B.37, is amended by adding a subdivision
to read:

new text begin Subd. 15. new text end

new text begin Utility interconnected wind generation installations. new text end

new text begin (a) Fees
associated with utility interconnected generation installations consisting of one or more
generator sources interconnected with a utility power system and not supplying other
premises loads are calculated according to paragraph (b) or (c).
new text end

new text begin (b) The inspection fee is calculated according to subdivisions 2, 3, 4, and 6,
paragraphs (d), (f), (j), and (k). A fee must be included for the generators and utility
interconnect feeders, but not for a utility service.
new text end

new text begin (c) There is a plan review fee and inspection fee for the entire electrical installation.
The plan review fee is based on the valuation of the electrical installation related to one of
the generator systems that is part of the overall installation, not to include the supporting
tower or other nonelectrical equipment or structures, calculated according to section
326B.153, subdivision 2. The inspection fee is $80 for each individual tower, including
any voltage matching transformers located at the tower, and the fee for the feeders
interconnecting the individual towers to the utility power system is calculated according to
subdivisions 4 and 6, paragraph (k).
new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326B.49, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Fees for plan reviews and audits.

Plumbing system plans and
specifications that are submitted to the commissioner for review shall be accompanied by
the appropriate plan examination fees. If the commissioner determines, upon review of
the plans, that inadequate fees were paid, the necessary additional fees shall be paid prior
to plan approval. The commissioner shall charge the following fees for plan reviews and
audits of plumbing installations for public, commercial, and industrial buildings:

(1) systems with both water distribution and drain, waste, and vent systems and
having:

(i) 25 or fewer drainage fixture units, $150;

(ii) 26 to 50 drainage fixture units, $250;

(iii) 51 to 150 drainage fixture units, $350;

(iv) 151 to 249 drainage fixture units, $500;

(v) 250 or more drainage fixture units, $3 per drainage fixture unit to a maximum
of $4,000; and

(vi) interceptors, separators, or catch basins, $70 per interceptor, separator, or catch
basin design;

(2) building sewer service only, $150;

(3) building water service only, $150;

(4) building water distribution system only, no drainage system, $5 per supply
fixture unit or $150, whichever is greater;

(5) storm drainage system, a minimum fee of $150 or:

(i) $50 per drain opening, up to a maximum of $500; and

(ii) $70 per interceptor, separator, or catch basin design;

(6) manufactured home park or campground, one to 25 sites, $300;

(7) manufactured home park or campground, 26 to 50 sites, $350;

(8) manufactured home park or campground, 51 to 125 sites, $400;

(9) manufactured home park or campground, more than 125 sites, $500; new text begin and
new text end

deleted text begin (10) accelerated review, double the regular fee, one-half to be refunded if no
response from the commissioner within 15 business days; and
deleted text end

deleted text begin (11) deleted text end new text begin (10) new text end revision to previously reviewed or incomplete plans:

(i) review of plans for which the commissioner has issued two or more requests for
additional information, per review, $100 or ten percent of the original fee, whichever
is greater;

(ii) proposer-requested revision with no increase in project scope, $50 or ten percent
of original fee, whichever is greater; and

(iii) proposer-requested revision with an increase in project scope, $50 plus the
difference between the original project fee and the revised project fee.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective January 1, 2014.
new text end

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326B.49, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

deleted text begin Inspection deleted text end new text begin Permits; new text end fees.

deleted text begin The commissioner shall charge the following
fees for inspections under sections 326B.42 to 326B.49:
deleted text end

deleted text begin Residential inspection fee (each visit) deleted text end		deleted text begin $ deleted text end	deleted text begin 50 deleted text end
deleted text begin Public, Commercial, and Industrial Inspections deleted text end		deleted text begin Inspection Fee deleted text end
deleted text begin 25 or fewer drainage fixture units deleted text end		deleted text begin $ deleted text end	deleted text begin 300 deleted text end
deleted text begin 26 to 50 drainage fixture units deleted text end		deleted text begin $ deleted text end	deleted text begin 900 deleted text end
deleted text begin 51 to 150 drainage fixture units deleted text end		deleted text begin $ deleted text end	deleted text begin 1,200 deleted text end
deleted text begin 151 to 249 drainage fixture units deleted text end		deleted text begin $ deleted text end	deleted text begin 1,500 deleted text end
deleted text begin 250 or more drainage fixture units deleted text end		deleted text begin $ deleted text end	deleted text begin 1,800 deleted text end
deleted text begin Callback fee (each visit) deleted text end		deleted text begin $ deleted text end	deleted text begin 100 deleted text end

new text begin (a) The permit fee is $100.
new text end

new text begin (b) The residential inspection fee is $50 for each inspection trip.
new text end

new text begin (c) The public, commercial, and industrial inspection fees are as follows:
new text end

new text begin (1) for systems with water distribution, drain, waste, and vent system connection:
new text end

new text begin (i) $25 for each fixture, permanently connected appliance, floor drain, or other
appurtenance;
new text end

new text begin (ii) $25 for each water conditioning, water treatment, or water filtration system;
new text end

new text begin (iii) $25 for each interceptor, separator, catch basin, or manhole;
new text end

new text begin (2) roof drains, $25 for each drain;
new text end

new text begin (3) building sewer service only, $100;
new text end

new text begin (4) building water service only, $100;
new text end

new text begin (5) building water distribution system only, no drainage system, $5 for each fixture
supplied;
new text end

new text begin (6) storm drainage system, a minimum fee of $25 for each drain opening, interceptor,
separator, or catch basin;
new text end

new text begin (7) manufactured home park or campground, $25 for each site;
new text end

new text begin (8) reinspection fee to verify corrections, regardless of the total fee submitted, $100
for each reinspection; and
new text end

new text begin (9) each $100 in fees paid covers one inspection trip.
new text end

new text begin (d) In addition to the fees in paragraph (c), the fee submitter must pay an hourly rate of
$80 during regular business hours, or $120 when inspections are requested to be performed
outside of normal work hours or on weekends and holidays, with a two-hour minimum
where the fee submitter requests inspections of installations as systems are being installed.
new text end

new text begin (e) The fee submitter must pay a fee equal to two hours at the hourly rate of $80
when inspections scheduled by the submitter are not able to be completed because the
work is not complete.
new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 341.321, is amended to read:

341.321 FEE SCHEDULE.

(a) The fee schedule for professional licenses issued by the commissioner is as
follows:

(1) referees, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(2) promoters, deleted text begin $400 deleted text end new text begin $700 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(3) judges and knockdown judges, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(4) trainers, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(5) ring announcers, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(6) seconds, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(7) timekeepers, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(8) combatants, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $120 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(9) managers, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal; and

(10) ringside physicians, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal.

In addition to the license fee and the late filing penalty fee in section 341.32, subdivision
2, if applicable, an individual who applies for a professional license on the same day the
combative sporting event is held shall pay a late fee of $100 plus the original license fee of
deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $120 new text end at the time the application is submitted.

(b) The fee schedule for amateur licenses issued by the commissioner is as follows:

(1) referees, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(2) promoters, deleted text begin $400 deleted text end new text begin $700 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(3) judges and knockdown judges, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(4) trainers, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(5) ring announcers, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(6) seconds, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(7) timekeepers, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(8) combatant, deleted text begin $25 deleted text end new text begin $60 new text end for each initial license and each renewal;

(9) managers, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal; and

(10) ringside physicians, deleted text begin $45 deleted text end new text begin $80 new text end for each initial license and each renewal.

(c) The commissioner shall establish a contest fee for each combative sport contest.
The professional combative sport contest fee is $1,500 per event or not more than four
percent of the gross ticket sales, whichever is greater, as determined by the commissioner
when the combative sport contest is scheduled, deleted text begin except that deleted text end the amateur combative sport
contest fee shall be deleted text begin $500 deleted text end new text begin $1,500 new text end or not more than four percent of the gross ticket sales,
whichever is greater. The commissioner shall consider the size and type of venue when
establishing a contest fee. The commissioner may establish the maximum number
of complimentary tickets allowed for each event by rule. A professional or amateur
combative sport contest fee is nonrefundable.

(d) All fees and penalties collected by the commissioner must be deposited in the
commissioner account in the special revenue fund.

Sec. 8. new text begin REPEALER.
new text end

new text begin Minnesota Rules, part 1307.0032, new text end new text begin is repealed.
new text end

ARTICLE 3

DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116J.8731, subdivision 2, is amended to
read:

Subd. 2.

Administration.

The commissioner shall administer the fund as part of
the Small Cities Development Block Grant Program. Funds shall be made available to
local communities and recognized Indian tribal governments in accordance with the rules
adopted for economic development grants in the small cities community development
block grant program, except that all units of general purpose local government are eligible
applicants for Minnesota investment funds. new text begin The commissioner may provide forgivable
loans directly to a private enterprise and not require a local community or recognized
Indian tribal government application other than a resolution supporting the assistance.
new text end The commissioner may also make funds available within the department for eligible
expenditures under subdivision 3, clause (2). A home rule charter or statutory city, county,
or town may loan or grant money received from repayment of funds awarded under
this section to a regional development commission, other regional entity, or statewide
community capital fund as determined by the commissioner, to capitalize or to provide the
local match required for capitalization of a regional or statewide revolving loan fund.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116J.8731, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Eligible expenditures.

The money appropriated for this section may
be used to:

(1) fund new text begin loans or new text end grants for infrastructure, loans, loan guarantees, interest buy-downs,
and other forms of participation with private sources of financing, provided that a loan to
a private enterprise must be for a principal amount not to exceed one-half of the cost of
the project for which financing is sought;

(2) fund strategic investments in renewable energy market development, such as
low interest loans for renewable energy equipment manufacturing, training grants to
support renewable energy workforce, development of a renewable energy supply chain
that represents and strengthens the industry throughout the state, and external marketing
to garner more national and international investment into Minnesota's renewable sector.
Expenditures in external marketing for renewable energy market development are not
subject to the limitations in clause (1); and

(3) provide private entrepreneurs with training, other technical assistance, and
financial assistance, as provided in the small cities development block grant program.

Sec. 3.

new text begin [116J.8748] MINNESOTA JOB CREATION FUND.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Definitions. new text end

new text begin (a) For purposes of this section, the following terms
have the meanings given.
new text end

new text begin (b) "Agreement" or "business subsidy agreement" means a business subsidy
agreement under section 116J.994 that must include, but is not limited to: specification
of the duration of the agreement, job goals and a timeline for achieving those goals over
the duration of the agreement, construction and other investment goals and a timeline for
achieving those goals over the duration of the agreement, and the value of benefits the
firm may receive following achievement of construction and employment goals. The local
government and business must report to the commissioner on the business performance
using the forms developed by the commissioner.
new text end

new text begin (c) "Business" means an individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability
company, association, or other entity.
new text end

new text begin (d) "Capital investment" means money that is expended for the purpose of building
or improving real fixed property where employees under paragraphs (g) and (h) are or will
be employed and also includes construction materials, services, and supplies.
new text end

new text begin (e) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of employment and economic
development.
new text end

new text begin (f) "Minnesota job creation fund business" means a business that is designated
by the commissioner under subdivision 3.
new text end

new text begin (g) "New full-time employee" means an employee who:
new text end

new text begin (1) begins work at a Minnesota job creation fund business facility noted in a business
subsidy agreement and following the execution of the agreement; and
new text end

new text begin (2) has expected work hours of at least 2,080 hours annually.
new text end

new text begin (h) "Retained job" means a full-time position:
new text end

new text begin (1) that existed at the facility prior to the execution of the agreement; and
new text end

new text begin (2) has expected work hours of at least 2,080 hours annually.
new text end

new text begin (i) "Wages" has the meaning given in section 290.92, subdivision 1, clause (1).
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Application. new text end

new text begin (a) In order to qualify for designation as a Minnesota job
creation fund business under subdivision 3, a business must submit an application to the
local government entity where the facility is or will be located.
new text end

new text begin (b) A local government must submit the business application along with other
application materials to the commissioner for approval.
new text end

new text begin (c) The applications required under paragraphs (a) and (b) must be in the form and
be made under the procedures specified by the commissioner.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Minnesota job creation fund business designation; requirements. new text end

new text begin (a)
To receive designation as a Minnesota job creation fund business, a business must satisfy
all of the following conditions:
new text end

new text begin (1) the business is or will be engaged in, within Minnesota, one of the following
as its primary business activity:
new text end

new text begin (i) manufacturing;
new text end

new text begin (ii) warehousing;
new text end

new text begin (iii) distribution;
new text end

new text begin (iv) information technology;
new text end

new text begin (v) finance;
new text end

new text begin (vi) insurance; or
new text end

new text begin (vii) professional or technical services;
new text end

new text begin (2) the business must not be primarily engaged in lobbying; gambling; entertainment;
professional sports; political consulting; leisure; hospitality; or professional services
provided by attorneys, accountants, business consultants, physicians, or health care
consultants; or primarily engaged in making retail sales to purchasers who are physically
present at the business's location;
new text end

new text begin (3) the business must enter into a binding construction and job creation business
subsidy agreement with the commissioner to expend at least $500,000 in capital
investment in a construction project that includes a new, expanded, or remodeled facility
within one year following designation as a Minnesota job creation fund business and:
new text end

new text begin (i) create at least ten new full-time employee positions within two years of the
benefit date following the designation as a Minnesota job creation fund business; or
new text end

new text begin (ii) expend at least $25,000,000 in capital investment and retain at least 200
employees;
new text end

new text begin (4) positions or employees moved or relocated from another Minnesota location
of the Minnesota job creation fund business must not be included in any calculation or
determination of job creation or new positions under this paragraph; and
new text end

new text begin (5) a Minnesota job creation fund business must not terminate, lay off, or reduce
the working hours of an employee for the purpose of hiring an individual to satisfy job
creation goals under this subdivision.
new text end

new text begin (b) Prior to approving the proposed designation of a business under this subdivision,
the commissioner shall consider the following:
new text end

new text begin (1) the economic outlook of the industry in which the business engages;
new text end

new text begin (2) the projected sales of the business that will be generated from outside the state
of Minnesota;
new text end

new text begin (3) how the business will build on existing regional, national, and international
strengths to diversify the state's economy;
new text end

new text begin (4) whether the business activity would occur without financial assistance;
new text end

new text begin (5) whether the business is unable to expand at an existing Minnesota operation
due to facility or land limitations;
new text end

new text begin (6) whether the business has viable location options outside Minnesota;
new text end

new text begin (7) the effect of financial assistance on industry competitors in Minnesota;
new text end

new text begin (8) financial contributions to the project made by local governments; and
new text end

new text begin (9) any other criteria the commissioner deems necessary.
new text end

new text begin (c) Upon receiving notification of local approval under subdivision 2, the
commissioner shall review the determination by the local government and consider the
conditions listed in paragraphs (a) and (b), to determine whether it is in the best interests of
the state and local area to designate a business as a Minnesota job creation fund business.
new text end

new text begin (d) If the commissioner designates a business as a Minnesota job creation fund
business, the business subsidy agreement shall include the performance outcome
commitments and the expected financial value of any Minnesota job creation fund benefits.
new text end

new text begin (e) The commissioner may amend an agreement once, upon request of a local
government on behalf of a business, only if the performance is expected to exceed
thresholds stated in the original agreement.
new text end

new text begin (f) A business may apply to be designated as a Minnesota job creation fund business
at the same location more than once only if all goals under a previous Minnesota job
creation fund agreement had been met and the agreement was completed.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Certification; benefits. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner may certify a Minnesota job
creation fund business as eligible to receive a specific value of benefit under paragraphs
(b) and (c) when the business has achieved its job creation and construction goals noted in
its agreement under subdivision 3.
new text end

new text begin (b) A qualified Minnesota job creation fund business may be certified eligible for the
benefits in this paragraph for up to five years as determined by the commissioner when
considering the best interests of the state and local area. The eligibility for the following
benefits begins the date the commissioner certifies the business as a qualified Minnesota
job creation fund business under this subdivision:
new text end

new text begin (1) up to five percent rebate on capital investment on qualifying purchases as
provided in subdivision 5 with the total rebate for a project not to exceed $500,000;
new text end

new text begin (2) an award of up to $500,000 based on full-time job creation and wages paid as
provided in subdivision 6 with the total award not to exceed $500,000;
new text end

new text begin (3) up to $1,000,000 in capital investment rebates and $1,000,000 in job creation
awards are allowable for projects that have at least $25,000,000 in capital investment and
200 new employees; and
new text end

new text begin (4) up to $1,000,000 in capital investment rebates are allowable for projects that
have at least $25,000,000 in capital investment and 200 retained employees.
new text end

new text begin (c) The job creation award may be provided in multiple years as long as the qualified
Minnesota job creation fund business continues to meet the job creation goals provided
for in its agreement under subdivision 3 and the total award does not exceed $500,000
except as provided under paragraph (b), clauses (3) and (4).
new text end

new text begin (d) No rebates or award may be provided until the Minnesota job creation fund
business has at least $500,000 in capital investment in the project and at least ten full-time
jobs have been created and maintained for at least one year or the retained employees, as
provided in paragraph (b), clause (4), remain for at least one year. The agreement may
require additional performance outcomes that need to be achieved before rebates and
awards are provided. If fewer retained jobs are maintained, the capital investment award
shall be reduced on a proportionate basis.
new text end

new text begin (e) The forms needed to be submitted to document performance by the Minnesota
job creation fund business must be in the form and be made under the procedures specified
by the commissioner. The forms shall include documentation and certification by the
business that it is in compliance with the business subsidy agreement, sections 116L.66,
116J.871, and other provisions as specified by the commissioner.
new text end

new text begin (f) Minnesota job creation fund businesses must pay each new full-time employee
added pursuant to the agreement total compensation, including benefits not mandated by
law, that on an annualized basis is equal to at least 110 percent of the federal poverty
level for a family of four.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Capital investment rebate. new text end

new text begin (a) A qualified Minnesota job creation fund
business is eligible for a rebate on the purchase and use of construction materials, services,
and supplies used for or consumed in the construction project as described in the goals
under the agreement provided under subdivision 1, paragraph (a).
new text end

new text begin (b) The rebate under this subdivision applies regardless of whether the purchases are
made by the qualified Minnesota job creation fund business or a contractor hired to perform
work or provide services at the qualified Minnesota job creation fund business location.
new text end

new text begin (c) Minnesota job creation fund businesses seeking the rebate for capital investment
provided under subdivision 4 must submit forms and applications to the Department of
Employment and Economic Development as prescribed by the commissioner of each
department.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Job creation award. new text end

new text begin (a) A qualified Minnesota job creation fund business
is eligible for an annual award for each new job created and maintained by the business
using the following schedule: $1,000 for each job position paying annual wages at least
$26,000 but less than $35,000; $2,000 for each job position paying at least $35,000 but
less than $45,000; and $3,000 for each job position paying at least $45,000; and as noted
in the goals under the agreement provided under subdivision 1.
new text end

new text begin (b) The job creation award schedule must be adjusted annually using the percentage
increase in the federal poverty level for a family of four.
new text end

new text begin (c) Minnesota job creation fund businesses seeking an award credit provided under
subdivision 4 must submit forms and applications to the Department of Employment and
Economic Development as prescribed by the commissioner.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Rules. new text end

new text begin The procedures and operations used by the commissioner are
exempt from the rulemaking provisions of chapter 14.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective January 1, 2014.
new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin [116J.978] MINNESOTA TRADE OFFICES IN FOREIGN MARKETS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Establishment. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of employment and economic
development shall, by July 1, 2014, establish three new Minnesota Trade Offices in key
foreign markets selected by the commissioner for their potential to increase Minnesota
exports and attract foreign direct investment.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Duties. new text end

new text begin The duties of each office may include, with regard to their
respective market areas, the duties stated in section 116J.966.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Discretionary powers. new text end

new text begin Each office may:
new text end

new text begin (1) apply for, accept, and disburse grants and other aids from the federal government
and other public or private sources;
new text end

new text begin (2) sponsor and conduct conferences and studies, collect and disseminate
information, and issue reports relating to trade with and foreign direct investment in
Minnesota companies; and
new text end

new text begin (3) establish a Web site in furtherance of its duties.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Staff. new text end

new text begin Each office may employ staff necessary to carry out the office's
duties under subdivision 2.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Accountability. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner shall establish a performance
rating system for each office and create specific annual goals for the offices to meet. The
commissioner shall monitor activities of the office, including, but not limited to, the number
of inquires and projects received and completed; meetings arranged between Minnesota
companies and potential investors, distributors, or customers; and agreements signed.
new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner shall submit a report to the chairs and ranking minority
members of the committees and divisions in the senate and house of representatives with
primary jurisdiction over economic development by February 15 of each odd-numbered
year. The report shall include the performance ratings of each office and shall specify
for each office the number of inquiries and projects received and completed; meetings
arranged between Minnesota companies and potential investors, distributors, or customers;
and agreements signed.
new text end

Sec. 5.

new text begin [116J.979] MINNESOTA STEP GRANTS.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Establishment. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of employment and economic
development shall create a State Trade and Export Promotion grants program, hereafter
STEP grants, to provide financial and technical assistance to eligible Minnesota small
businesses with an active interest in exporting products or services to foreign markets.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Grants. new text end

new text begin Recipients may apply, on an application devised by the
commissioner, for up to $7,500 in reimbursement for approved export-development
activities, including, but not limited to:
new text end

new text begin (1) participation in trade missions;
new text end

new text begin (2) export training;
new text end

new text begin (3) exhibition at trade shows or industry-specific events;
new text end

new text begin (4) translation of marketing materials;
new text end

new text begin (5) development of foreign language Web sites, Gold Key, or other business
matchmaking services;
new text end

new text begin (6) company-specific international sales activities; and
new text end

new text begin (7) testing and certification required to sell products in foreign markets.
new text end

Sec. 6.

new text begin [116J.9801] INVEST MINNESOTA.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner shall establish the Invest Minnesota marketing initiative. This
initiative must focus on branding the state's economic development initiatives and
promoting Minnesota business opportunities. The initiative may include measures to
communicate the benefits of doing business in Minnesota to companies considering
relocating, establishing a United States presence, or expanding.
new text end

Sec. 7. new text begin UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE EMPLOYER TAX REDUCTION.
new text end

new text begin (a) Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 268.051, subdivision 2, if, on
September 30, 2013, the balance in the Minnesota Unemployment Trust Fund is more than
$800,000,000, the base tax rate for calendar year 2014 is 0.1 percent and there will be no
additional assessment assigned. If, on September 30, 2014, the balance in the Minnesota
Unemployment Trust Fund is more than $900,000,000, the base tax rate for calendar year
2015 is 0.1 percent and there will be no additional assessment assigned.
new text end

new text begin (b) This section expires December 31, 2015.
new text end

ARTICLE 4

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Section 1.

new text begin [116J.4365] TRANSPORTATION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Program established. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioners of transportation and
employment and economic development shall develop and implement a transportation
economic development assistance program as provided in this section, for providing
financial assistance on a geographically balanced basis through competitive grants
for projects in all modes of transportation that provide measurable local, regional, or
statewide economic benefit.
new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioners of transportation and employment and economic
development may provide financial assistance for a transportation project at their
discretion, subject to the requirements of this section.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Transportation economic development account. new text end

new text begin (a) A transportation
economic development account is established in the special revenue fund under the
budgetary jurisdiction of the senate and house of representatives committees having
jurisdiction over transportation finance. The account consists of funds donated, allotted,
transferred, or otherwise provided to the account.
new text end

new text begin (b) Money in the account may be expended only as appropriated by law.
new text end

new text begin (c) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), the account may not contain money transferred
or otherwise provided from the trunk highway fund.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Program administration. new text end

new text begin In implementing the transportation economic
development assistance program, the commissioners of transportation and employment
and economic development shall make reasonable efforts to (1) publicize each solicitation
for applications among all eligible recipients, and (2) provide technical and informational
assistance in creating and submitting applications.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Economic impact performance measures. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of
employment and economic development shall develop economic impact performance
measures to analyze projects for which financial assistance under this section is being
applied for or has been previously provided.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Financial assistance; criteria. new text end

new text begin The commissioners of transportation and
employment and economic development shall establish criteria for evaluating projects
for financial assistance under this section. At a minimum, the criteria must provide an
objective method to prioritize and select projects on the basis of:
new text end

new text begin (1) the extent to which the project provides measurable economic benefit;
new text end

new text begin (2) consistency with relevant state and local transportation plans;
new text end

new text begin (3) the availability and commitment of funding or in-kind assistance for the project
from nonpublic sources;
new text end

new text begin (4) the need for the project as part of the overall transportation system;
new text end

new text begin (5) the extent to which completion of the project will improve the movement of
people and freight; and
new text end

new text begin (6) geographic balance as required under subdivision 7, paragraph (b).
new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Financial assistance; project evaluation process. new text end

new text begin (a) Following the
criteria established under subdivision 4, the commissioner of employment and economic
development shall (1) evaluate proposed projects, and (2) certify those that may receive
financial assistance.
new text end

new text begin (b) As part of the project evaluation process, the commissioner of transportation
shall certify that a project constitutes an eligible and appropriate transportation project.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Financial assistance; awards. new text end

new text begin (a) The financial assistance awarded by the
commissioners of transportation and employment and economic development may not
exceed 70 percent of a project's total costs.
new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioners of transportation and employment and economic development
shall ensure that financial assistance is provided in a manner that is balanced throughout
the state, including with respect to (1) the number of projects receiving funding in a
particular geographic location or region of the state, and (2) the total amount of financial
assistance provided for projects in a particular geographic location or region of the state.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Legislative report. new text end

new text begin (a) By February 1 of each odd-numbered year, the
commissioner of transportation, with assistance from the commissioner of employment
and economic development, shall submit a report on the transportation economic
development assistance program to the chairs and ranking minority members of the
house of representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over transportation
policy and finance.
new text end

new text begin (b) At a minimum, the report must:
new text end

new text begin (1) summarize the requirements and implementation of the transportation economic
development assistance program established in this section;
new text end

new text begin (2) review the criteria and economic impact performance measures used for
evaluation, prioritization, and selection of projects;
new text end

new text begin (3) provide a brief overview of each project that received financial assistance under
the program, which must at a minimum identify:
new text end

new text begin (i) basic project characteristics, such as funding recipient, geographic location,
and type of transportation modes served;
new text end

new text begin (ii) sources and respective amounts of project funding; and
new text end

new text begin (iii) the degree of economic benefit anticipated or observed, following the economic
impact performance measures established under subdivision 4;
new text end

new text begin (4) identify the allocation of funds, including but not limited to a breakdown of total
project funds by transportation mode, the amount expended for administrative costs, and
the amount transferred to the transportation economic development assistance account;
new text end

new text begin (5) evaluate the overall economic impact of the program consistent with the
accountability measurement requirements under section 116J.997; and
new text end

new text begin (6) provide recommendations for any legislative changes related to the program.
new text end

ARTICLE 5

REPEAL MINNESOTA SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AUTHORITY

Section 1. new text begin REPEALER.
new text end

new text begin Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 116W.01; 116W.02; 116W.03; 116W.035;
116W.04; 116W.05; 116W.06; 116W.20; 116W.21; 116W.23; 116W.24; 116W.25;
116W.26; 116W.27; 116W.28; 116W.29; 116W.30; 116W.31; 116W.32; 116W.33; and
116W.34, new text end new text begin are repealed.
new text end