SF 1764

1st Engrossment - 85th Legislature (2007 - 2008) Posted on 12/15/2009 12:00am

A bill for an act
relating to the environment; requiring commissioner of natural resources and
director of Explore Minnesota Tourism to develop a travel green program;
requiring a report.

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

Section 1. new text begin MINNESOTA TRAVEL GREEN PROGRAM.
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new text begin (a) The commissioner of natural resources shall collaborate with the director of
Explore Minnesota Tourism to develop a Minnesota travel green program to recognize
tourism businesses that have made a commitment to reduce their environmental impact.
A Minnesota travel green program must be a voluntary program designed to promote
the Explore Minnesota brand and give the state and hospitality business participants
a marketing edge, promote smart business practices, reduce costs, educate travelers,
promote Minnesota travel, and protect the environment.
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new text begin (b) In developing the program, the commissioner and director shall actively seek the
ideas, advice, and participation of:
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new text begin (1) the Minnesota travel and tourism industry;
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new text begin (2) the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council;
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new text begin (3) the University of Minnesota Tourism Center;
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new text begin (4) the Minnesota Environmental Initiative;
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new text begin (5) the International Ecotourism Society;
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new text begin (6) Renewing The Countryside organization;
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new text begin (7) statewide lodging and hospitality associations;
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new text begin (8) private industry sponsors; and
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new text begin (9) other interested organizations.
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new text begin (c) The commissioner and director shall:
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new text begin (1) research other states' similar programs;
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new text begin (2) determine criteria that must be met in order for a business to participate in the
program;
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new text begin (3) determine who will evaluate the criteria in relation to a particular business;
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new text begin (4) estimate the level of private sector partnership participation;
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new text begin (5) determine the marketing techniques that will have the most impact; and
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new text begin (6) establish a timeline and budget to get the program up and running.
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new text begin (d) The commissioner and director shall present their recommendations to the
legislative committees with jurisdiction over the environment and tourism, along with
draft legislation to codify the program.
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