as introduced - 85th Legislature (2007 - 2008) Posted on 12/15/2009 12:00am
A bill for an act
relating to state government; strengthening heritage education by creating the
Commission on Minnesota Ethnic Heritage; appropriating money; proposing
coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 15.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:
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The Commission on Minnesota Ethnic
Heritage is established to recognize the state's rich ethnic diversity and the contributions
that immigrants have made to the state's social, economic, and cultural history. The
commission shall assist the state government to foster an understanding and appreciation
of ethnic and cultural diversity in Minnesota.
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The commission shall consist of two members of the house
and two members from the senate, one member each selected by the majority and minority
party in each house; and 16 public members appointed by the governor after consultation
with the various ethnic organizations in the state. Each appointed member shall serve a
two-year term.
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The Commission on Minnesota Ethnic Heritage shall:
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(1) work with community leaders, the legislature, and the executive branch to work
on programs and proposals that will encourage ethnic identity, preserve ethnic heritage,
and promote education of the public about the state's heritage and cultural history;
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(2) make recommendations to the legislature and the governor intended to foster the
understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity in the state; and
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(3) maintain association with ethnic, cultural, and minority groups to determine
community needs.
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The commission shall be staffed by the Legislative
Coordinating Commission. The Legislative Coordinating Commission shall consult with
legislators and the governor in assisting with the duties established in this section.
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$....... is appropriated in fiscal year 2008 from the general fund to the Legislative
Coordinating Commission for creation of the Commission on Minnesota Ethnic Heritage.
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Sections 1 and 2 are effective the day following final enactment.
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