SF 1277

as introduced - 85th Legislature (2007 - 2008) Posted on 12/15/2009 12:00am

A bill for an act
relating to economic development; requiring a study of higher education training
needs in the renewable energy economy; requiring a report; appropriating money.

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

Section 1. new text begin TRAINING AND PERSONNEL NEEDS FOR RENEWABLE
ENERGY ECONOMY.
new text end

new text begin The commissioner of employment and economic development shall contract
with a public higher education institution in Minnesota jointly with the Center for
Rural Development to study the needs of the renewable energy economy for trained
employees and the training required for those employees. The study must include
extensive consultation and involvement of representatives of the renewable energy
industry, environmental interests, labor, the University of Minnesota, and the Minnesota
State Colleges and Universities. The commissioner shall report the results of the study
to the chairs of the finance divisions of the legislature with jurisdiction over economic
development, energy, and higher education by November 1, 2007.
new text end

Sec. 2. new text begin APPROPRIATION.
new text end

new text begin $....... is appropriated from the general fund to the commissioner of employment
and economic development for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008, for the purposes of
section 1. The commissioner shall seek, but is not required to obtain, a match for the
appropriation from nonstate sources. The match may be in money or in-kind.
new text end