Skip to main content Skip to office menu Skip to footer
Capital IconMinnesota Legislature

Office of the Revisor of Statutes

Key: (1) language to be deleted (2) new language

CHAPTER 312--H.F.No. 3172

An act

relating to state government; providing supplemental appropriations for Office of Higher Education, Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota; jobs, economic development, labor, commerce and housing finance; state government and veterans; public safety and corrections; transportation; agriculture, environment, natural resources and clean water; early childhood education; kindergarten through grade 12; community and adult education including general education; education excellence; special education; education facilities; nutrition; state education agencies; health and human services; making certain appropriations adjustments; modifying disposition of certain revenues; providing a grant to College Possible; providing funding for regenerative medicine research; regulating study abroad programs; providing resident tuition rates for certain military veterans; authorizing participation in the interstate reciprocity agreement; authorizing student loan refinancing; requiring a transfer from the assigned risk plan in the event of surplus; establishing broadband development grants; modifying workforce development outcomes; requiring workers' compensation reform; modifying an energy loan program; establishing deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing grants; modifying distribution of a taconite tax; implementing an innovation voucher pilot program; establishing competency standards for certain industries; creating the Legislative Water Commission; making changes to the Compensation Council; expediting professional licensure for members of the military; transferring funds to a disaster assistance contingency account; modifying certain provisions pertaining to victims of domestic violence; permitting the court to continue a juvenile case without a finding of delinquency; continuing the fire safety advisory committee; lowering the penalty for the performance of acts prohibited by statutes for which no penalty is specified; extending University of Minnesota service of alcohol; providing for disaster assistance for public entities with and without federal assistance; providing for railroad and railroad yard safety and emergency preparedness; designating the Trooper Glen Skolman Memorial Highway; modifying various provisions governing fund use, driver's licenses and permits, license plates, speed limits, work zones, gross vehicle weights and permits, products and services billing, safety oversight, light rail vehicle design, transit shelters and stops, highway turnbacks, and watercraft decontamination sites; providing for federal conformity; establishing a community destination sign pilot program; providing for transit service on election day; modifying off-highway motorcycle provisions; creating accounts; providing for certain grants; providing for protection of pollinators; modifying the Water Law; modifying recycling provisions; providing for state parks and trails license plates; providing for establishment of Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center; providing for licensing commercial breeders of dogs and cats; providing for adoption of research dogs and cats; modifying provisions governing Health Department, Department of Human Services, health care, children and family services, Northstar Care for Children program, community first services and supports, continuing care, home and community-based services standards, public assistance programs simplification, and chemical and mental health services; making changes to hospital payment system; providing rate and grant increases for nursing facilities, ICFs/DD, and home and community-based services; requiring studies and reports; requiring rulemaking;

amending Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 12.03, by adding subdivisions; 12.221, subdivision 4, by adding a subdivision; 12A.02, subdivision 2, by adding subdivisions; 12A.03, subdivision 3; 12A.15, subdivision 1; 13.43, subdivision 16; 13.46, subdivision 4; 13.643, subdivision 6; 13.681, by adding a subdivision; 13.84, subdivisions 5, 6; 15A.082, subdivision 4; 16A.125, subdivision 5; 16A.28, by adding a subdivision; 16C.16, subdivision 6a; 16C.19; 18B.01, by adding subdivisions; 18B.03, by adding a subdivision; 18B.04; 84.788, subdivision 2; 85.053, subdivision 2; 85.34, subdivision 7; 85A.02, subdivision 2; 103G.251; 103G.271, subdivisions 5, 6; 103G.281, by adding a subdivision; 115A.151, as amended; 115A.55, subdivision 4; 115A.551, subdivisions 1, 2a; 115A.557, subdivisions 2, 3; 115E.01, by adding subdivisions; 115E.08, by adding subdivisions; 116J.423, subdivision 2; 116J.8731, subdivision 5; 116L.98; 119B.09, subdivision 9a; 122A.18, by adding a subdivision; 122A.40, subdivision 13; 122A.41, subdivision 6; 122A.414, subdivision 2, as amended if enacted; 122A.415, subdivision 1; 123A.05, subdivision 2; 123A.64; 123B.57, subdivision 6; 123B.71, subdivisions 8, 9; 123B.72, subdivisions 1, 3; 124D.09, subdivisions 9, 13; 124D.111, by adding a subdivision; 124D.1158, subdivisions 3, 4; 124D.13, subdivisions 2, as amended, 4, 9, 13, by adding subdivisions; 124D.135, subdivisions 1, 3; 124D.16, subdivision 2; 124D.522; 124D.531, subdivision 3; 124D.59, subdivision 2; 125A.76, subdivision 2; 126C.10, subdivisions 25, 26; 127A.45, subdivisions 2, 3; 127A.49, subdivisions 2, 3; 129C.10, subdivision 3, by adding a subdivision; 136A.01, subdivision 2; 136A.1702; 136A.1785; 144.0724, as amended; 144.1501, subdivision 1; 144.551, subdivision 1; 144A.073, by adding a subdivision; 144A.33, subdivision 2; 148.624, by adding a subdivision; 148B.53, subdivision 3; 150A.091, by adding a subdivision; 153.16, by adding a subdivision; 154.11, as amended; 155A.27, by adding a subdivision; 161.14, by adding a subdivision; 165.15, subdivision 2; 169.011, by adding a subdivision; 169.06, subdivision 4, by adding a subdivision; 169.14, subdivision 5d, by adding a subdivision; 169.305, subdivision 1; 169.826, by adding a subdivision; 169.8261, by adding a subdivision; 169.86, subdivision 5; 169.863, by adding a subdivision; 169.865, subdivisions 1, 2, by adding a subdivision; 169.866, subdivision 3, by adding a subdivision; 171.02, subdivision 3; 171.06, subdivision 2; 171.13, subdivision 1; 174.02, by adding a subdivision; 174.56, subdivision 1; 179.02, by adding a subdivision; 181A.07, by adding a subdivision; 216B.241, subdivision 1d; 216C.145; 216C.146; 219.015, subdivisions 1, 2; 222.50, subdivision 7; 245.466, by adding a subdivision; 245A.03, subdivision 2c; 245A.04, by adding a subdivision; 245C.03, by adding a subdivision; 245C.04, by adding a subdivision; 245C.05, subdivision 5; 245C.10, by adding a subdivision; 245C.33, subdivisions 1, 4; 252.451, subdivision 2; 253B.066, subdivision 1; 254B.04, subdivision 3; 254B.12; 256.01, by adding a subdivision; 256.9685, subdivisions 1, 1a; 256.9686, subdivision 2; 256.969, subdivisions 1, 2, 2b, 3a, 3b, 3c, 6a, 8, 8a, 9, 10, 12, 14, 17, 18, 25, 30, by adding subdivisions; 256.9752, subdivision 2; 256B.04, by adding a subdivision; 256B.0615, subdivision 3; 256B.0624, subdivisions 2, 5, 6, 10; 256B.0625, subdivisions 18b, 18c, 18d, 18g, 30, by adding a subdivision; 256B.0751, by adding a subdivision; 256B.199; 256B.35, subdivision 1; 256B.441, by adding a subdivision; 256B.5012, by adding a subdivision; 256D.02, subdivisions 8, 12; 256D.05, subdivision 5; 256D.06, subdivision 1; 256D.08, subdivision 1, by adding a subdivision; 256D.10; 256D.405, subdivisions 1, 3; 256D.425, subdivision 2; 256I.03, by adding a subdivision; 256I.04, subdivision 1; 256I.05, subdivision 2; 256J.08, subdivisions 47, 57, 83, by adding a subdivision; 256J.10; 256J.21, subdivision 4; 256J.30, subdivision 4; 256J.32, subdivision 1; 256J.33, subdivision 2; 256J.37, as amended; 256J.425, subdivisions 1, 7; 256J.49, subdivision 13; 256J.53, subdivisions 1, 2, 5; 256J.531; 256J.95, subdivisions 8, 9, 10; 257.85, subdivision 11; 260B.198, subdivision 7; 260C.212, subdivision 1; 260C.515, subdivision 4; 260C.611; 268A.01, subdivision 14; 298.28, subdivisions 2, 7a, as added; 299F.012, subdivision 2; 326.04, as amended; 326.10, by adding a subdivision; 326.3382, by adding a subdivision; 326A.04, by adding a subdivision; 363A.44, subdivision 1, as added; 611A.06, by adding a subdivision; 645.241; Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, sections 15A.082, subdivisions 1, 3; 16A.724, subdivision 3; 103I.205, subdivision 4; 116V.03; 123B.53, subdivisions 1, 5; 123B.54; 123B.75, subdivision 5; 124D.11, subdivision 1; 124D.111, subdivision 1; 124D.165, subdivisions 3, 4, 5; 124D.531, subdivision 1; 124D.862, subdivisions 1, 2; 125A.0942; 125A.11, subdivision 1; 125A.76, subdivisions 1, 2a, 2b, 2c; 125A.79, subdivisions 1, 5, 8; 126C.05, subdivision 15; 126C.10, subdivisions 2, 2a, 2c, 2d, 24, 31; 126C.17, subdivisions 6, 7b, 9, 9a; 126C.40, subdivision 1; 126C.44; 126C.48, subdivision 8; 127A.47, subdivision 7; 145.4716, subdivision 2; 148B.17, subdivision 2; 174.12, subdivision 2; 174.42, subdivision 2; 245.8251; 245A.03, subdivision 7; 245A.042, subdivision 3; 245A.16, subdivision 1; 245C.08, subdivision 1; 245D.02, subdivisions 3, 4b, 8b, 11, 15b, 23, 29, 34, 34a, by adding a subdivision; 245D.03, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, by adding a subdivision; 245D.04, subdivision 3; 245D.05, subdivisions 1, 1a, 1b, 2, 4, 5; 245D.051; 245D.06, subdivisions 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8; 245D.071, subdivisions 3, 4, 5; 245D.081, subdivision 2; 245D.09, subdivisions 3, 4a; 245D.091, subdivisions 2, 3, 4; 245D.10, subdivisions 3, 4; 245D.11, subdivision 2; 252.27, subdivision 2a; 256B.04, subdivision 21; 256B.055, subdivision 1; 256B.06, subdivision 4; 256B.0625, subdivisions 17, 18e; 256B.0949, subdivisions 4, 5, 11, by adding a subdivision; 256B.439, subdivisions 1, 7; 256B.441, subdivision 63; 256B.4912, subdivision 1; 256B.4913, subdivision 4a; 256B.4914, subdivisions 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15; 256B.492; 256B.69, subdivision 34; 256B.766; 256B.767; 256B.85, subdivisions 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, by adding subdivisions; 256J.21, subdivision 3; 256J.30, subdivision 9; 256N.02, by adding a subdivision; 256N.21, subdivision 2, by adding a subdivision; 256N.22, subdivisions 1, 2, 4, 6; 256N.23, subdivisions 1, 4; 256N.24, subdivisions 9, 10; 256N.25, subdivisions 2, 3; 256N.26, subdivision 1; 256N.27, subdivision 4; 297A.815, subdivision 3; 326A.04, subdivision 5; Laws 2008, chapter 363, article 5, section 4, subdivision 7, as amended; Laws 2009, chapter 83, article 1, section 10, subdivision 7; Laws 2010, chapter 189, sections 15, subdivision 12; 26, subdivision 4; Laws 2012, chapter 247, article 4, section 47; Laws 2012, chapter 263, section 1; Laws 2012, chapter 287, article 2, sections 1; 3; Laws 2012, First Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 28; Laws 2013, chapter 1, section 6, as amended; Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, sections 3, subdivisions 2, 5, 6; 4, subdivisions 1, 2; 5; 13, subdivision 5; Laws 2013, chapter 86, article 1, sections 12, subdivisions 1, 3, as amended; 13; Laws 2013, chapter 108, article 1, section 24; article 7, sections 14; 49; article 14, sections 2, subdivisions 1, 3, 4, as amended, 6, as amended; 3, subdivisions 1, 4; 4, subdivision 8; 12; Laws 2013, chapter 114, article 3, sections 3, subdivision 6; 4, subdivision 3; article 4, section 47; Laws 2013, chapter 116, article 1, section 58, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11; article 3, section 37, subdivisions 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 15, 18, 20; article 4, section 9, subdivision 2; article 5, section 31, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 5, 8; article 6, section 12, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 6; article 7, section 21, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9; article 8, section 5, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14; article 9, sections 1, subdivision 2; 2; Laws 2013, chapter 117, article 1, sections 3, subdivisions 2, 3, 6; 4; 5, subdivisions 2, 3, 4; Laws 2013, chapter 143, article 11, section 10; Laws 2014, chapter 235, section 43; Laws 2014, chapter 240, section 26; 2014 H.F. No. 2180, section 11, if enacted; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 3; 5; 18B; 84; 85; 87A; 103G; 115E; 116J; 123A; 123B; 124D; 129C; 135A; 136A; 144; 144A; 145; 148; 168; 171; 197; 219; 268A; 299A; 347; 473; proposing coding for new law as Minnesota Statutes, chapters 12B; 256P; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2012, sections 115A.551, subdivision 2; 116J.997; 123B.71, subdivisions 1, 4; 256.969, subdivisions 2c, 8b, 9a, 9b, 11, 13, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 28; 256.9695, subdivisions 3, 4; 256D.06, subdivision 1b; 256D.08, subdivision 2; 256D.405, subdivisions 1a, 2; 256J.08, subdivisions 42, 55a, 82a; 256J.20; 256J.24, subdivision 9; 256J.32, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 5a, 6, 7, 7a, 8; Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, sections 256B.0625, subdivision 18f; 256J.08, subdivision 24; 256N.26, subdivision 7; Laws 2014, chapter 272, article 1, section 22; article 3, section 32.

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

ARTICLE 1

HIGHER EDUCATION

Section 1.

new text begin APPROPRIATIONS.new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are added to the appropriations in Laws 2013, chapter 99, article 1, unless otherwise specified, 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 year indicated for each purpose. The figure "2015" used in this article means that the appropriation listed under it is available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 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. 2.

new text begin OFFICE OF HIGHER EDUCATION new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin 750,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is for immediate transfer to College Possible for the purpose of expanding College Possible coaching and mentoring programs in Minnesota schools. The appropriation shall be used for: new text end

new text begin (1) increasing the number of low-income high school students served by College Possible by adding at least 150 students and partnering with at least three additional high schools in 2015; new text end

new text begin (2) expenses related to direct support for low-income high school students in after-school programming led by College Possible; and new text end

new text begin (3) coaching and support of low-income college students through the completion of their college degree. new text end

new text begin College Possible must, by February 1, 2015, report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees and divisions with jurisdiction over higher education and E-12 education on activities funded by this appropriation. The report must include, but is not limited to, information about the expansion of College Possible in Minnesota, the number of College Possible coaches hired, the expansion within existing partner high schools, the expansion of high school partnerships, the number of high school and college students served, the total hours of community service by high school and college students, and a list of communities and organizations benefitting from student service hours. new text end

new text begin This appropriation must not be used for the expansion and support of College Possible outside of Minnesota. new text end

new text begin This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

Sec. 3.

new text begin BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE MINNESOTA STATE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin 17,000,000 new text end

new text begin $17,000,000 in fiscal year 2015 is appropriated from the general fund to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities for compensation costs associated with the settlement of employment contracts for fiscal year 2014. The board's appropriation base is increased by $17,000,000 in fiscal years 2016 and 2017. new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA 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 4,500,000 new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Health Sciences Special new text end

new text begin 4,500,000 new text end

new text begin (a) This appropriation is from the general fund for the direct and indirect expenses of the collaborative partnership between the Univerity of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic for regenerative medicine research, clinical translation, and commercialization. In addition to representatives from the University of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic, the collaborative partnership must include representatives of private industry and others with expertise in regenerative medicine research, clinical translation, commercialization, and medical venture financing who are not affiliated with either the University of Minnesota or the Mayo Clinic. new text end

new text begin (b) By January 15 of each odd-numbered year beginning in 2017, the partnership must submit an independent financial audit to the chairs and ranking minority members of the committees of the house of representatives and senate having jurisdiction over higher education and economic development. The audit must include the names of all recipients of grants awarded by the partnership and their affiliation, if any, with the University of Minnesota or the Mayo Clinic. new text end

new text begin (c) The full amount of this appropriation is for the partnership and may not be used by the University of Minnesota for administrative or monitoring expenses. new text end

new text begin (d) For fiscal year 2016 and thereafter, the base for this program is $4,350,000. new text end

Sec. 5.

new text begin [5.41] STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS. 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 terms defined in this subdivision have the meanings given them. new text end

new text begin (b) "Postsecondary institution" means an institution that meets the eligibility requirements under section 136A.103 to participate in state financial aid programs. new text end

new text begin (c) "Program" means a study abroad program offered or approved for credit by a postsecondary institution in which program participants travel outside of the United States in connection with an educational experience. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Report. new text end

new text begin (a) A postsecondary institution, must file by November 1 of each year a report on its programs with the secretary of state. The report must contain the following information from the previous academic year, including summer terms: new text end

new text begin (1) deaths of program participants that occurred during program participation as a result of program participation; and new text end

new text begin (2) accidents and illnesses that occurred during program participation as a result of program participation and that required hospitalization. new text end

new text begin Information reported under clause (1) may be supplemented by a brief explanatory statement. new text end

new text begin (b) A postsecondary institution must report to the secretary of state annually by November 1 whether its program complies with health and safety standards set by the Forum on Education Abroad or a similar study abroad program standard setting agency. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Secretary of state; publication of program information. new text end

new text begin (a) The secretary of state must publish the reports required by subdivision 2, on its Web site in a format that facilitates identifying information related to a particular postsecondary institution. new text end

new text begin (b) The secretary of state shall publish on its Web site the best available information by country on sexual assaults and other criminal acts affecting study abroad program participants during program participation. This information shall not be limited to programs subject to this section. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Office of Higher Education. new text end

new text begin The secretary of state shall provide the information it posts on its Web site under subdivision 3 to the Office of Higher Education, in electronic format, at the time it posts the information. The Office of Higher Education shall post the information on its Web site and may otherwise distribute the information. In materials distributed or posted, the Office of Higher Education must reference this section. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Program material. new text end

new text begin A postsecondary institution must include in its written materials provided to prospective program participants a link to the secretary of state Web site stating that program health and safety information is available at the Web site. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective August 1, 2014, provided that the initial reports under subdivision 2 are due November 1, 2015. new text end

Sec. 6.

new text begin [135A.0431] MILITARY VETERANS; RESIDENT TUITION. new text end

new text begin (a) A person who is honorably discharged from the armed forces of the United States is entitled to the resident tuition rate at Minnesota public postsecondary institutions. new text end

new text begin (b) This section is in addition to any other statute, rule, or higher education institution regulation or policy providing eligibility for a resident tuition rate or its equivalent to a student. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective for academic terms beginning after August 1, 2014. new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 136A.01, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Responsibilities.

(a) The Minnesota Office of Higher Education is responsible for:

(1) necessary state level administration of financial aid programs, including accounting, auditing, and disbursing state and federal financial aid funds, and reporting on financial aid programs to the governor and the legislature;

(2) approval, registration, licensing, and financial aid eligibility of private collegiate and career schools, under sections 136A.61 to 136A.71 and chapter 141;

new text begin (3) determining whether to enter into an interstate reciprocity agreement regarding postsecondary distance education; new text end

deleted text begin (3)deleted text end new text begin (4)new text end negotiating and administering reciprocity agreements;

deleted text begin (4)deleted text end new text begin (5)new text end publishing and distributing financial aid information and materials, and other information and materials under section 136A.87, to students and parents;

deleted text begin (5)deleted text end new text begin (6)new text end collecting and maintaining student enrollment and financial aid data and reporting data on students and postsecondary institutions to develop and implement a process to measure and report on the effectiveness of postsecondary institutions;

deleted text begin (6)deleted text end new text begin (7)new text end administering the federal programs that affect students and institutions on a statewide basis; and

deleted text begin (7)deleted text end new text begin (8)new text end prescribing policies, procedures, and rules under chapter 14 necessary to administer the programs under its supervision.

(b) The office may match individual student data from the student record enrollment database with individual student financial aid data collected and maintained by the office in order to audit or evaluate federal or state supported education programs as permitted by United States Code, title 20, section 1232g(b)(3), and Code of Federal Regulations, title 34, section 99.35. The office shall not release data that personally identifies parents or students other than to employees and contractors of the office.

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 136A.1702, is amended to read:

136A.1702 LEGISLATIVE OVERSIGHT.

The office shall notify the chairs of the legislative committees with primary jurisdiction over higher education finance of any proposed material change to any of its student loan programsnew text begin , including loan refinancing under section 136A.1704, new text end prior to making the change.

Sec. 9.

new text begin [136A.1704] STUDENT LOAN REFINANCING. new text end

new text begin The office may refinance student and parent loans as provided by this section and on other terms and conditions the office prescribes. The office may establish credit requirements for borrowers and determine what types of student and parent loans will be eligible for refinancing. The refinanced loan need not have been made through a loan program administered by the office. Loans shall be made with available funds in the loan capital fund under section 136A.1785. The maximum amount of outstanding loans refinanced under this section may not exceed $100,000,000. The maximum loan under this section may not exceed $70,000. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment, provided no loans may be refinanced prior to June 1, 2015. new text end

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 136A.1785, is amended to read:

136A.1785 LOAN CAPITAL FUND.

The office may deposit and hold assets derived from the operation of its student loan programs new text begin and refinanced education loans new text end authorized by this chapter in a fund known as the loan capital fund. Assets in the loan capital fund are available to the office solely for carrying out the purposes and terms of sections 136A.15 to deleted text begin 136A.1703deleted text end new text begin 136A.1704new text end , including, but not limited to, making student loans authorized by this chapter, new text begin refinancing education loans authorized by this chapter, new text end paying administrative expenses associated with the operation of its student loan programs, repurchasing defaulted student loans, and paying expenses in connection with the issuance of revenue bonds authorized under this chapter. Assets in the loan capital fund may be invested as provided in sections 11A.24 and 136A.16, subdivision 8. All interest and earnings from the investment of the loan capital fund inure to the benefit of the fund and are deposited into the fund.

Sec. 11.

new text begin [136A.658] EXEMPTION; STATE AUTHORIZATION RECIPROCITY AGREEMENT SCHOOLS. new text end

new text begin (a) The office may participate in an interstate reciprocity agreement regarding postsecondary distance education if it determines that participation is in the best interest of Minnesota postsecondary students. new text end

new text begin (b) If the office decides to participate in an interstate reciprocity agreement, an institution that meets the following requirements is exempt from the provisions of sections 136A.61 to 136A.71: new text end

new text begin (1) the institution is situated in a state which is also participating in the interstate reciprocity agreement; new text end

new text begin (2) the institution has been approved to participate in the interstate reciprocity agreement by the institution's home state and other entities with oversight of the interstate reciprocity agreement; and new text end

new text begin (3) the institution has elected to participate in and operate in compliance with the terms of the interstate reciprocity agreement. new text end

Sec. 12.

new text begin MINNESOTA STATE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES BACCALAUREATE DEGREE COMPLETION PLAN. new text end

new text begin The Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities shall develop a plan to implement multi-campus articulation agreements that lead to baccalaureate degree completion upon earning the number of credits required for the degree minus 60 credits at a system university after transfer to the system university by a student with an associate in arts degree, associate of science degree, or an associate of fine arts (AFA) degree from a system college. The board shall assign the task of developing the plan to the appropriate committee formed under the board's "Charting the Future" initiative. The board shall report on this plan to the legislative committees with primary jurisdiction over higher education finance and policy by March 15, 2015. new text end

Sec. 13.

new text begin REPORT; OFFICE OF HIGHER EDUCATION. new text end

new text begin The Office of Higher Education shall, by February 1, 2015, report to the committees of the legislature with primary jurisdiction over higher education policy and finance, its plans and proposed terms and conditions for operating a student loan refinancing program under section 136A.1704, along with any recommended legislation. new text end

Sec. 14.

new text begin STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM; ASSESSMENT OF APPROPRIATE REGULATION. new text end

new text begin The Office of Higher Education shall, using existing staff and budget, assess the appropriate state regulation of postsecondary study abroad programs. The assessment must be based on a balanced approach of protecting the health and safety of program participants and maintaining the opportunity of students to study abroad. The office shall report the results of its assessment with any legislative recommendation by February 1, 2015, to the committees of the legislature with primary jurisdiction over higher education. new text end

Sec. 15.

new text begin UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA BASE ADJUSTMENT. new text end

new text begin For fiscal years 2016 to 2041, $3,500,000 is added to the base operations and maintenance appropriation to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota in Laws 2013, chapter 99, article 1, section 5. new text end

Sec. 16.

new text begin JAMES FORD BELL NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM AND PLANETARIUM. new text end

new text begin The Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota is requested to complete the design of and to construct, furnish, and equip a new James Ford Bell Natural History Museum and Planetarium on the St. Paul campus. new text end

ARTICLE 2

APPROPRIATIONS FOR DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, AND HOUSING FINANCE

Section 1.

new text begin APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns under "Appropriations" are added to or, if shown in parentheses, subtracted from the appropriations in Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, or other law to the specified agencies. 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. Appropriations for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, are effective the day following final enactment. Reductions may be taken in either fiscal year. 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. 2.

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 0 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 29,475,000 new text end
new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 28,175,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 1,300,000 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 0 new text end new text begin 27,225,000 new text end

new text begin (a)(1) $20,000,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for deposit in the border-to-border broadband fund account created under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.396, and may be used for the purposes provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.395, and as provided for under clause (2). This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

new text begin (2) Of the appropriation under clause (1), up to three percent is for: (i) costs incurred by the commissioner to administer Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.395; and (ii) one or more contracts with an independent organization that has extensive experience working with Minnesota broadband providers to continue to: new text end

new text begin (A) collect broadband deployment data from Minnesota providers, verify its accuracy through on-the-ground testing, and create state and county maps available to the public showing the availability of broadband service at various upload and download speeds throughout Minnesota, in order to measure progress in achieving the state's broadband goals established in Minnesota Statutes, section 237.012; new text end

new text begin (B) analyze the deployment data collected to help inform future investments in broadband infrastructure; and new text end

new text begin (C) conduct business and residential surveys that measure broadband adoption and use in the state. new text end

new text begin Data provided by a broadband provider to the contractor under this paragraph is nonpublic data under Minnesota Statutes, section 13.02, subdivision 9. Maps produced under this paragraph are public data under Minnesota Statutes, section 13.03. new text end

new text begin (b) $475,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for a grant to the Southwest Initiative Foundation for business revolving loans or other lending programs at below market interest rates. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (c) $475,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for a grant to the West Central Initiative Foundation for business revolving loans or other lending programs at below market interest rates. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (d) $475,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for a grant to the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation for business revolving loans or other lending programs at below market interest rates. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (e) $475,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for a grant to the Northwest Minnesota Foundation for business revolving loans or other lending programs at below market interest rates. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (f) $475,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for a grant to the Initiative Foundation for business revolving loans or other lending programs at below market interest rates. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (g) $475,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for a grant to the Northland Foundation for business revolving loans or other lending programs at below market interest rates. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (h) $650,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for a grant to the Urban Initiative Board under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 116M, for loans at below market interest rates, business technical assistance, or organizational capacity building. Funds available under this paragraph must be allocated as follows: (1) 50 percent of the funds must be allocated for projects in the counties of Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington; and (2) 50 percent of the funds must be allocated for projects in the counties of Anoka, Carver, Hennepin, and Scott. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (i) $500,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for grants to small business development centers under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.68. Funds made available under this paragraph may be used to match funds under the federal Small Business Development Center (SBDC) program under United States Code, title 15, section 648, to provide consulting and technical services, or to build additional SBDC network capacity to serve entrepreneurs and small businesses. The commissioner shall allocate funds equally among the nine regional centers and lead center. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (j) $400,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for the innovation voucher pilot program. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. Of this amount, up to five percent may be used for administration. Vouchers require a 50 percent match by recipients. new text end

new text begin (k) $475,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for the Minnesota Jobs Skills Partnership program under Minnesota Statutes, section 116L.02. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (l) $2,200,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for the greater Minnesota business development public infrastructure grant program under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.431, for grants to design, construct, prepare, and improve infrastructure for economic development. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

new text begin (m) $150,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for a grant to the city of Proctor to design and construct a sand and salt storage facility to prevent runoff into surface water. This appropriation is not available until the commissioner determines that at least an equal amount is committed to the project from nonstate sources. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Workforce Development new text end

new text begin 0 new text end new text begin 1,050,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $300,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the workforce development fund for workforce program outcome activities under Minnesota Statutes, section 116L.98. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (b) $250,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the workforce development fund for a grant to the Northwest Indian Opportunities Industrialization Center and may be used for a green jobs deconstruction pilot program in collaboration with a research institute and a nonprofit organization with experience developing deconstruction jobs, new products from reclaimed materials, and reuse of materials. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (c) $250,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the workforce development fund for a grant to the Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (d) $250,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the workforce development fund for a grant to Twin Cities RISE! to provide job training. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin General Support Services new text end

new text begin 0 new text end new text begin 500,000 new text end

new text begin $500,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for establishing and operating the interagency Olmstead Implementation Office. The base appropriation for the office is $875,000 each year for fiscal years 2016 and 2017. The state recognizes its obligations under Jensen, et al. v. Minnesota Department of Human Services, et al. During the 2015 legislative session, the legislature intends to review the funding levels provided for the Olmstead Implementation Office to ensure that amounts sufficient to comply with the obligations imposed by the court's order are appropriated in fiscal years 2016 and 2017. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Vocational Rehabilitation new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 700,000 new text end
new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 450,000 new text end
new text begin Workforce Development new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 250,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $250,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the workforce development fund for rate increases to providers of extended employment services for persons with severe disabilities under Minnesota Statutes, section 268A.15. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin (b) $450,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for grants to the eight Minnesota Centers for Independent Living. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Transfer new text end

new text begin The commissioner shall transfer $7,100,000 from the Minnesota minerals 21st century fund to the commissioner of the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board for a grant or forgivable loan to the city of Hoyt Lakes for building and municipal infrastructure in support of a biochemical manufacturing project to be located in the city. This transfer is available until June 30, 2018. new text end

Sec. 3.

new text begin DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin 250,000 new text end

new text begin For the purpose of establishing competency standards for programs in advanced manufacturing, health care services, information technology, and agriculture. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin (350,000) new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin $350,000 in fiscal year 2014 is a onetime reduction to the appropriation for the gold bullion dealer registration program. new text end

Sec. 5.

new text begin HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 2,200,000 new text end

new text begin $2,200,000 in fiscal year 2015 is from the general fund for up to two grants for housing projects, not to exceed $1,100,000 per grant or 50 percent of the total development costs of the housing project, whichever is less, in communities that have: new text end

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

new text begin (2) education and training centers for jobs in the natural resources or aviation maintenance fields, or other fields with anticipated significant job growth potential. new text end

new text begin Funds must be used for grants for housing projects with financial and in-kind contributions from nonagency resources that, when combined with a grant under this section, are sufficient to complete the housing project. This is a onetime appropriation. If funds remain uncommitted by the end of calendar year 2015, the agency may transfer the uncommitted funds to the economic development and housing challenge program under Minnesota Statutes, section 462A.33. new text end

Sec. 6.

Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, section 3, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Business and Community Development

53,642,000 45,407,000
Appropriations by Fund
General 52,942,000 44,707,000
Remediation 700,000 700,000

(a)(1) $15,000,000 each year is for the Minnesota investment fund under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.8731. new text begin Of this amount, the commissioner of employment and economic development may use up to three percent for administrative expenses and technology upgrades. new text end This appropriation is available until spent.

(2) Of the amount available under clause (1), up to $3,000,000 in fiscal year 2014 is for a loan to facilitate initial investment in the purchase and operation of a biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility. This loan is not subject to the loan limitations under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.8731, and shall be forgiven by the commissioner of employment and economic development upon verification of meeting performance goals. Purchases related to and for the purposes of this loan award must be made between January 1, 2013, and June 30, 2015. The amount under this clause is available until expended.

(3) Of the amount available under clause (1), up to $2,000,000 is available for subsequent investment in the biopharmaceutical facility project in clause (2). The amount under this clause is available until expended. Loan thresholds under clause (2) must be achieved and maintained to receive funding. Loans are not subject to the loan limitations under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.8731, and shall be forgiven by the commissioner of employment and economic development upon verification of meeting performance goals. Purchases related to and for the purposes of loan awards must be made during the biennium the loan was received.

(4) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility in this paragraph shall be deemed eligible for the Minnesota job creation fund under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.8748, by having at least $25,000,000 in capital investment and 190 retained employees.

(5) For purposes of clauses (1) to (4), "biopharmaceutical" and "biologics" are interchangeable and mean medical drugs or medicinal preparations produced using technology that uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives of living organisms, to make or modify products or processes for specific use. The medical drugs or medicinal preparations include but are not limited to proteins, antibodies, nucleic acids, and vaccines.

(b) $12,000,000 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. The base funding for this program shall be $12,500,000 each year in the fiscal year 2016-2017 biennium.

(c) $1,272,000 each year is from the general fund for contaminated site cleanup and development grants under Minnesota Statutes, sections 116J.551 to 116J.558. This appropriation is available until expended.

(d) $700,000 each year is 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.

(e) $1,425,000 the first year and $1,425,000 the second year are from the general fund for the business development competitive grant program. Of this amount, up to five percent is for administration and monitoring of the business development competitive grant program. All grant awards shall be for two consecutive years. Grants shall be awarded in the first year.

(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.

(g) $6,000,000 the first year is from the general fund for the redevelopment program under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.571. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until spent.

(h) $12,000 each year is from the general fund for a grant to the Upper Minnesota Film Office.

(i) $325,000 each year is from the general fund 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 to $50,000 is available on July 1 even if the required matching contribution has not been received by that date.

(j) $100,000 each year is for a grant to the Northern Lights International Music Festival.

(k) $5,000,000 each year is from the general fund for a grant to the Minnesota Film and TV Board for the film production jobs program under Minnesota Statutes, section 116U.26. This appropriation is available until expended. The base funding for this program shall be $1,500,000 each year in the fiscal year 2016-2017 biennium.

(l) $375,000 each year is from the general fund for a grant to Enterprise Minnesota, Inc., for the small business growth acceleration program under Minnesota Statutes, section 116O.115. This is a onetime appropriation.

(m) $160,000 each year is from the general fund for a grant to develop and implement a southern and southwestern Minnesota initiative foundation collaborative pilot project. Funds available under this paragraph must be used to support and develop entrepreneurs in diverse populations in southern and southwestern Minnesota. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until expended.

(n) $100,000 each year is from the general fund for the Center for Rural Policy and Development. This is a onetime appropriation.

(o) $250,000 each year is from the general fund for the Broadband Development Office.

(p) $250,000 the first year is from the general fund for a onetime grant to the St. Paul Planning and Economic Development Department for neighborhood stabilization use in NSP3.

(q) $1,235,000 the first year is from the general fund for a onetime grant to a city of the second class that is designated as an economically depressed area by the United States Department of Commerce. The appropriation is for economic development, redevelopment, and job creation programs and projects. This appropriation is available until expended.

(r) $875,000 each year is from the general fund for the Host Community Economic Development Program established in Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.548.

(s) $750,000 the first year is from the general fund for a onetime grant to the city of Morris for loans or grants to agricultural processing facilities for energy efficiency improvements. Funds available under this section shall be used to increase conservation and promote energy efficiency through retrofitting existing systems and installing new systems to recover waste heat from industrial processes and reuse energy. This appropriation is not available until the commissioner determines that deleted text begin at least $1,250,000deleted text end new text begin a match of $750,000new text end is committed to the project from nonpublic sources. This appropriation is available until expended.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective retroactively from July 1, 2013. new text end

Sec. 7.

Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, section 3, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Minnesota Trade Office

2,322,000 2,292,000

(a) $330,000 in fiscal year 2014 and $300,000 in fiscal year 2015 are for the STEP grants in Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.979. Of the fiscal year 2014 appropriation, $30,000 is new text begin available for expenditure until June 30, 2015, new text end for establishing trade, export, and cultural exchange relations between the state of Minnesota and east African nations.

(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.9781. Notwithstanding any other law, this provision does not expire.

(c) $270,000 each year is from the general fund for the expansion of Minnesota Trade Offices under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.978.

(d) $50,000 each year is from the general fund for the trade policy advisory group under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.9661.

(e) The commissioner of employment and economic development, in consultation with the commissioner of agriculture, shall identify and increase export opportunities for Minnesota agricultural products.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 8.

Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, section 3, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Vocational Rehabilitation

27,691,000 27,691,000
Appropriations by Fund
General 20,861,000 20,861,000
Workforce Development 6,830,000 6,830,000

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

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

(c) $5,745,000 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.15. The allocation of extended employment funds to Courage Center from July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013 must be contracted to Allina Health systems from July 1, 2013 to June 30, deleted text begin 2014deleted text end new text begin 2015new text end to provide extended employment services in accordance with Minnesota Rules, parts 3300.2005 to 3300.2055.

(d) $2,055,000 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. The base appropriation for this program is $1,555,000 each year in the fiscal year 2016-2017 biennium.

Sec. 9.

Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, section 4, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Total Appropriation

$ 58,748,000 $ 42,748,000

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

Unless otherwise specified, 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 begin The Housing Finance Agency must make continuous improvements to its ongoing efforts to reduce the racial and ethnic inequalities in homeownership rates and must seek opportunities to deploy increasing levels of resources toward these efforts. new text end

Sec. 10.

Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, section 4, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Challenge Program

19,203,000 9,203,000

(a) This appropriation is for the economic development and housing challenge program under Minnesota Statutes, section 462A.33. The agency must continue to strengthen its efforts to address the disparity rate between white households and indigenous American Indians and communities of color. 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.

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

(1)(i) low housing vacancy rates; and

(ii) cooperatively developed a plan that identifies current and future housing needs; and

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

(ii) evidence of anticipated job expansion; or

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

(c) Priority shall be given to programs and projects that are land trust programs and programs that work in coordination with a land trust program.

new text begin (d) Of this amount, $500,000 is for homeownership opportunities for families who have been evicted or been given notice of an eviction due to a disabled child in the home, including adjustments for the incremental increase in costs of addressing the unique housing needs of those households. Any funds not expended for this purpose may be returned to the challenge fund after October 31, 2014. new text end

deleted text begin (d)deleted text end new text begin (e)new text end The base funding for this program in the 2016-2017 biennium is $12,925,000 each year.

Sec. 11.

Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, section 5, is amended to read:

Sec. 5.

EXPLORE MINNESOTA TOURISM

$ 13,988,000 $ 13,988,000

new text begin (a) new text end 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.

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 begin (b) $100,000 of the second year appropriation is for a grant to the Mille Lacs Tourism Council to enhance marketing activities related to tourism promotion in the Mille Lacs Lake area. new text end

new text begin (c) $100,000 of the second year appropriation is for additional marketing activities. new text end

Sec. 12.

Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 1, section 13, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Telecommunications

1,949,000 2,249,000
Appropriations by Fund
General 1,009,000 1,009,000
Special Revenue 940,000 1,240,000

$940,000 in fiscal year 2014 and $1,240,000 in fiscal year 2015 are appropriated to the commissioner from the telecommunication access fund for the following transfers. This appropriation is added to the department's base.

(1) $500,000 in fiscal year 2014 and $800,000 in fiscal year 2015 to the commissioner of human services to supplement the ongoing operational expenses of the Commission of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard-of-Hearing Minnesotans;

(2) $290,000 in fiscal year 2014 and $290,000 in fiscal year 2015 to the chief information officer for the purpose of coordinating technology accessibility and usability; and

(3) $150,000 in fiscal year 2014 and $150,000 in fiscal year 2015 to the Legislative Coordinating Commission for captioning of legislative coveragenew text begin and for a consolidated access fund for other state agencies. These transfers are subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.281new text end .

Sec. 13.

new text begin EXTENDED EMPLOYMENT CARRYFORWARD. new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 268A.15, subdivision 8, appropriations from the general fund and workforce development fund in fiscal years 2014 and 2015 to the commissioner of employment and economic development for the purposes of Minnesota Statutes, sections 268A.13 and 268A.14, are available until June 30, 2015. new text end

Sec. 14.

new text begin ASSIGNED RISK TRANSFER. new text end

new text begin (a) By June 30, 2015, if the commissioner of commerce determines on the basis of an audit that there is an excess surplus in the assigned risk plan created under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.252, the commissioner of management and budget shall transfer the amount of the excess surplus, not to exceed $10,500,000, to the general fund. This transfer occurs prior to any transfer under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.251, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (1). This is a onetime transfer. new text end

new text begin (b) By June 30, 2015, and each year thereafter, if the commissioner of commerce determines on the basis of an audit that there is an excess surplus in the assigned risk plan created under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.252, the commissioner of management and budget shall transfer the amount of the excess surplus, not to exceed $4,820,000 each year, to the Minnesota minerals 21st century fund under Minnesota Statutes, section 116J.423. This transfer occurs prior to any transfer under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.251, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (1), but after the transfer authorized in paragraph (a). The total amount authorized for all transfers under this paragraph must not exceed $24,100,000. This paragraph expires the day following the transfer in which the total amount transferred under this paragraph to the Minnesota minerals 21st century fund equals $24,100,000. new text end

new text begin (c) By June 30, 2015, if the commissioner of commerce determines on the basis of an audit that there is an excess surplus in the assigned risk plan created under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.252, the commissioner of management and budget shall transfer the amount of the excess surplus, not to exceed $4,820,000, to the general fund. This transfer occurs prior to any transfer under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.251, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (1), but after any transfers authorized in paragraphs (a) and (b). If a transfer occurs under this paragraph, the amount transferred is appropriated from the general fund in fiscal year 2015 to the commissioner of labor and industry for the purposes of section 15. Both the transfer and appropriation under this paragraph are onetime. new text end

new text begin (d) By June 30, 2016, if the commissioner of commerce determines on the basis of an audit that there is an excess surplus in the assigned risk plan created under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.252, the commissioner of management and budget shall transfer the amount of the excess surplus, not to exceed $4,820,000, to the general fund. This transfer occurs prior to any transfer under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.251, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (1), but after the transfers authorized in paragraphs (a) and (b). If a transfer occurs under this paragraph, the amount transferred is appropriated from the general fund in fiscal year 2016 to the commissioner of labor and industry for the purposes of section 15. Both the transfer and appropriation under this paragraph are onetime. new text end

new text begin (e) Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.28, the commissioner of management and budget shall transfer to the assigned risk plan under Minnesota Statutes, section 79.252, any unencumbered or unexpended balance of the appropriations under paragraphs (c) and (d) remaining on June 30, 2017, or the date the commissioner of commerce determines that an excess surplus in the assigned risk plan does not exist, whichever occurs earlier. new text end

Sec. 15.

new text begin WORKERS' COMPENSATION SYSTEM REFORM; USE OF FUNDS. new text end

new text begin (a) The appropriations under section 14 to the commissioner of labor and industry are for reform of the workers' compensation system. Funds appropriated under section 14, paragraphs (c) and (d), may be expended by the commissioner only after the advisory council on workers' compensation created under Minnesota Statutes, section 175.007, has approved a new system including, but not limited to: a Medicare-based diagnosis-related group (MS-DRG) or similar system for payment of workers' compensation inpatient hospital services. Of the amount appropriated under section 14, paragraphs (c) and (d), up to $100,000 may be used by the commissioner to develop and implement the new system approved by the advisory council on workers' compensation. new text end

new text begin (b) Funds available for expenditure under paragraph (a) may be used by the commissioner for reimbursement of expenditures that are reasonable and necessary to defray the costs of the implementation by hospitals, insurers, and self-insured employers of the new system including, but not limited to: a Medicare-based diagnosis-related group (MS-DRG) or similar system for payment of workers' compensation inpatient hospital services, litigation expense reform, worker safety training, administrative costs, or other related system reform. new text end

new text begin (c) For the purposes of this section, reasonable and necessary system reform and implementation costs include, but are not limited to: new text end

new text begin (1) the cost of analyzing data to determine the anticipated costs and savings of implementing the new system; new text end

new text begin (2) the cost of analyzing system or organizational changes necessary for implementation; new text end

new text begin (3) the cost of determining how an organization would implement group or other software; new text end

new text begin (4) the cost of upgrading existing software or purchasing new software and other technology upgrades needed for implementation; new text end

new text begin (5) the cost of educating and training staff about the new system as applied to workers' compensation; and new text end

new text begin (6) the cost of integrating the new system with electronic billing and remittance systems. new text end

Sec. 16.

new text begin AFFORDABLE HOUSING PLAN; DISPARITIES REPORT. new text end

new text begin (a) The Housing Finance Agency shall provide the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over the agency with the draft and final versions of its affordable housing plan before and after it has been submitted to the agency board for consideration. new text end

new text begin (b) The Housing Finance Agency shall annually report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over the agency on the progress, if any, the agency has made in closing the racial disparity gap and low-income concentrated housing disparities. new text end

ARTICLE 3

JOBS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, ENERGY, AND LABOR

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 13.681, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Community energy efficiency and renewable energy loan. new text end

new text begin Energy usage data provided by an industrial, commercial, or health care facility customer for community energy efficiency and renewable energy loans are governed by section 216C.145, subdivision 3. new text end

Sec. 2.

new text begin [116J.394] DEFINITIONS. new text end

new text begin (a) For the purposes of sections 116J.394 to 116J.396, the following terms have the meanings given them. new text end

new text begin (b) "Broadband" or "broadband service" has the meaning given in section 116J.39, subdivision 1, paragraph (b). new text end

new text begin (c) "Broadband infrastructure" means networks of deployed telecommunications equipment and technologies necessary to provide high-speed Internet access and other advanced telecommunications services for end users. new text end

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

new text begin (e) "Last-mile infrastructure" means broadband infrastructure that serves as the final leg connecting the broadband service provider's network to the end-use customer's on-premises telecommunications equipment. new text end

new text begin (f) "Middle-mile infrastructure" means broadband infrastructure that links a broadband service provider's core network infrastructure to last-mile infrastructure. new text end

new text begin (g) "Political subdivision" means any county, city, town, school district, special district or other political subdivision, or public corporation. new text end

new text begin (h) "Underserved areas" means areas of Minnesota in which households or businesses lack access to wire-line broadband service at speeds that meet the state broadband goals of ten to 20 megabits per second download and five to ten megabits per second upload. new text end

new text begin (i) "Unserved areas" means areas of Minnesota in which households or businesses lack access to wire-line broadband service at speeds that meet a Federal Communications Commission threshold of four megabits per second download and one megabit per second upload. new text end

Sec. 3.

new text begin [116J.395] BORDER-TO-BORDER BROADBAND DEVELOPMENT GRANT PROGRAM. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Establishment. new text end

new text begin A grant program is established under the Department of Employment and Economic Development to award grants to eligible applicants in order to promote the expansion of access to broadband service in unserved or underserved areas of the state. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Eligible expenditures. new text end

new text begin Grants may be awarded under this section to fund the acquisition and installation of middle-mile and last-mile infrastructure that support broadband service scalable to speeds of at least 100 megabits per second download and 100 megabits per second upload. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Eligible applicants. new text end

new text begin Eligible applicants for grants awarded under this section include: new text end

new text begin (1) an incorporated business or a partnership; new text end

new text begin (2) a political subdivision; new text end

new text begin (3) an Indian tribe; new text end

new text begin (4) a Minnesota nonprofit organization organized under chapter 317A; new text end

new text begin (5) a Minnesota cooperative association organized under chapter 308A or 308B; and new text end

new text begin (6) a Minnesota limited liability corporation organized under chapter 322B for the purpose of expanding broadband access. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Application process. new text end

new text begin An eligible applicant must submit an application to the commissioner on a form prescribed by the commissioner. The commissioner shall develop administrative procedures governing the application and grant award process. The commissioner shall act as fiscal agent for the grant program and shall be responsible for receiving and reviewing grant applications and awarding grants under this section. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Application contents. new text end

new text begin An applicant for a grant under this section shall provide the following information on the application: new text end

new text begin (1) the location of the project; new text end

new text begin (2) the kind and amount of broadband infrastructure to be purchased for the project; new text end

new text begin (3) evidence regarding the unserved or underserved nature of the community in which the project is to be located; new text end

new text begin (4) the number of households passed that will have access to broadband service as a result of the project, or whose broadband service will be upgraded as a result of the project; new text end

new text begin (5) significant community institutions that will benefit from the proposed project; new text end

new text begin (6) evidence of community support for the project; new text end

new text begin (7) the total cost of the project; new text end

new text begin (8) sources of funding or in-kind contributions for the project that will supplement any grant award; and new text end

new text begin (9) any additional information requested by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Awarding grants. new text end

new text begin (a) In evaluating applications and awarding grants, the commissioner shall give priority to applications that are constructed in areas identified by the director of the Office of Broadband Development as unserved. new text end

new text begin (b) In evaluating applications and awarding grants, the commissioner may give priority to applications that: new text end

new text begin (1) are constructed in areas identified by the director of the Office of Broadband Development as underserved; new text end

new text begin (2) offer new or substantially upgraded broadband service to important community institutions including, but not limited to, libraries, educational institutions, public safety facilities, and healthcare facilities; new text end

new text begin (3) facilitate the use of telemedicine and electronic health records; new text end

new text begin (4) serve economically distressed areas of the state, as measured by indices of unemployment, poverty, or population loss that are significantly greater than the statewide average; new text end

new text begin (5) provide technical support and train residents, businesses, and institutions in the community served by the project to utilize broadband service; new text end

new text begin (6) include a component to actively promote the adoption of the newly available broadband services in the community; new text end

new text begin (7) provide evidence of strong support for the project from citizens, government, businesses, and institutions in the community; new text end

new text begin (8) provide access to broadband service to a greater number of unserved or underserved households and businesses; or new text end

new text begin (9) leverage greater amounts of funding for the project from other private and public sources. new text end

new text begin (c) The commissioner shall endeavor to award grants under this section to qualified applicants in all regions of the state. new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Limitation. new text end

new text begin (a) No grant awarded under this section may fund more than 50 percent of the total cost of a project. new text end

new text begin (b) Grants awarded to a single project under this section must not exceed $5,000,000. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin [116J.396] BORDER-TO-BORDER BROADBAND FUND. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Account established. new text end

new text begin The border-to-border broadband fund account is established as a separate account in the special revenue fund in the state treasury. The commissioner shall credit to the account appropriations and transfers to the account. Earnings, such as interest, dividends, and any other earnings arising from assets of the account, must be credited to the account. Funds remaining in the account at the end of a fiscal year are not canceled to the general fund, but remain in the account until expended. The commissioner shall manage the account. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Expenditures. new text end

new text begin Money in the account may be used only: new text end

new text begin (1) for grant awards made under section 116J.395, including costs incurred by the Department of Employment and Economic Development to administer that section; new text end

new text begin (2) to supplement revenues raised by bonds sold by local units of government for broadband infrastructure development; or new text end

new text begin (3) to contract for the collection of broadband deployment data from providers and the creation of maps showing the availability of broadband service. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Appropriation. new text end

new text begin Money in the account is appropriated to the commissioner for the purposes of subdivision 2. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116J.423, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Use of fund.

The commissioner shall use money in the fund to make loans or equity investments in mineral new text begin or taconite new text end processing facilities deleted text begin including, but not limited to, taconite processing, direct reduction processing, anddeleted text end new text begin ,new text end steel productionnew text begin facilities, facilities for the manufacturing of renewable energy products, or facilities for the manufacturing of biobased or biomass products, and that are located within the taconite relief tax area as defined under section 273.134new text end . The commissioner must, prior to making any loans or equity investments and after consultation with industry and public officials, develop a strategy for making loans and equity investments that assists the Minnesota mineral industry in becoming globally competitive. Money in the fund may also be used to pay for the costs of carrying out the commissioner's due diligence duties under this section.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116J.8731, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Grant limits.

A Minnesota investment fund grant may not be approved for an amount in excess of $1,000,000. This limit covers all money paid to complete the same project, whether paid to one or more grant recipients and whether paid in one or more fiscal years. A local community or recognized Indian tribal government may retain deleted text begin 20deleted text end new text begin 40new text end percent, but not more than $100,000new text begin ,new text end of a Minnesota investment fund grant when it is repaid to the local community or recognized Indian tribal government by the person or entity to which it was loaned by the local community or Indian tribal government. Money repaid to the state must be credited to a Minnesota investment revolving loan account in the state treasury. Funds in the account are appropriated to the commissioner and must be used in the same manner as are funds appropriated to the Minnesota investment fund. Funds repaid to the state through existing Minnesota investment fund agreements must be credited to the Minnesota investment revolving loan account effective July 1, 2005. A grant or loan may not be made to a person or entity for the operation or expansion of a casino or a store which is used solely or principally for retail sales. Persons or entities receiving grants or loans must pay each employee 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.

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116L.98, is amended to read:

116L.98 WORKFORCE PROGRAM OUTCOMES.

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Requirements. new text end

The commissioner shall develop and implement a deleted text begin set of standard approaches for assessing the outcomes of workforce programs under this chapter. The outcomes assessed must include, but are not limited to, periodic comparisons of workforce program participants and nonparticipantsdeleted text end new text begin uniform outcome measurement and reporting system for adult workforce-related programs funded in whole or in part by the workforce development fundnew text end .

deleted text begin The commissioner shall also monitor the activities and outcomes of programs and services funded by legislative appropriations and administered by the department on a pass-through basis and develop a consistent and equitable method of assessing recipients for the costs of its monitoring activities. deleted text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Definitions. new text end

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

new text begin (b) "Credential" means postsecondary degrees, diplomas, licenses, and certificates awarded in recognition of an individual's attainment of measurable technical or occupational skills necessary to obtain employment or advance with an occupation. This definition does not include certificates awarded by workforce investment boards or work-readiness certificates. new text end

new text begin (c) "Exit" means to have not received service under a workforce program for 90 consecutive calendar days. The exit date is the last date of service. new text end

new text begin (d) "Net impact" means the use of matched control groups and regression analysis to estimate the impacts attributable to program participation net of other factors, including observable personal characteristics and economic conditions. new text end

new text begin (e) "Pre-enrollment" means the period of time before an individual was enrolled in a workforce program. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Uniform outcome report card; reporting by commissioner. new text end

new text begin (a) By December 31 of each even-numbered year, the commissioner must report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the committees of the house of representatives and the senate having jurisdiction over economic development and workforce policy and finance the following information separately for each of the previous two fiscal or calendar years, for each program subject to the requirements of subdivision 1: new text end

new text begin (1) the total number of participants enrolled; new text end

new text begin (2) the median pre-enrollment wages based on participant wages for the second through the fifth calendar quarters immediately preceding the quarter of enrollment excluding those with zero income; new text end

new text begin (3) the total number of participants with zero income in the second through fifth calendar quarters immediately preceding the quarter of enrollment; new text end

new text begin (4) the total number of participants enrolled in training; new text end

new text begin (5) the total number of participants enrolled in training by occupational group; new text end

new text begin (6) the total number of participants that exited the program and the average enrollment duration of participants that have exited the program during the year; new text end

new text begin (7) the total number of exited participants who completed training; new text end

new text begin (8) the total number of exited participants who attained a credential; new text end

new text begin (9) the total number of participants employed during three consecutive quarters immediately following the quarter of exit, by industry; new text end

new text begin (10) the median wages of participants employed during three consecutive quarters immediately following the quarter of exit; new text end

new text begin (11) the total number of participants employed during eight consecutive quarters immediately following the quarter of exit, by industry; and new text end

new text begin (12) the median wages of participants employed during eight consecutive quarters immediately following the quarter of exit. new text end

new text begin (b) The report to the legislature must contain participant information by education level, race and ethnicity, gender, and geography, and a comparison of exited participants who completed training and those who did not. new text end

new text begin (c) The requirements of this section apply to programs administered directly by the commissioner or administered by other organizations under a grant made by the department. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Data to commissioner; uniform report card. new text end

new text begin (a) A recipient of a future or past grant or direct appropriation made by or through the department must report data to the commissioner by September 1 of each even-numbered year on each of the items in subdivision 3 for each program it administers except wages and number employed, which the department shall provide. The data must be in a format prescribed by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (b) Beginning July 1, 2014, the commissioner shall provide notice to grant applicants and recipients regarding the data collection and reporting requirements under this subdivision and must provide technical assistance to applicants and recipients to assist in complying with the requirements of this subdivision. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Information. new text end

new text begin The information collected and reported under subdivisions 3 and 4 shall be made available on the department's Web site. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Limitations on future appropriations. new text end

new text begin (a) A program that is a recipient of public funds and subject to the requirements of this section as of May 1, 2014, is not eligible for additional state appropriations for any fiscal year beginning after June 30, 2015, unless all of the reporting requirements under subdivision 4 have been satisfied. new text end

new text begin (b) A program with an initial request for funds on or after the effective date of this section may be considered for receipt of public funds for the first two fiscal years only if a plan that demonstrates how the data collection and reporting requirements under subdivision 4 will be met has been submitted and approved by the commissioner. Any subsequent request for funds after an initial request is subject to the requirements of paragraph (a). new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Workforce program net impact analysis. new text end

new text begin (a) By January 15, 2015, the commissioner must report to the committees of the house of representatives and the senate having jurisdiction over economic development and workforce policy and finance on the results of the net impact pilot project already underway as of the date of enactment of this section. new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner shall contract with an independent entity to conduct an ongoing net impact analysis of the programs included in the net impact pilot project under paragraph (a) and any other programs deemed appropriate by the commissioner. The net impact methodology used by the independent entity under this paragraph must be based on the methodology and evaluation design used in the net impact pilot project under paragraph (a). new text end

new text begin (c) By January 15, 2017, and every four years thereafter, the commissioner must report to the committees of the house of representatives and the senate having jurisdiction over economic development and workforce policy and finance the following information for each program subject to paragraph (b): new text end

new text begin (1) the net impact of workforce services on individual employment, earnings, and public benefit usage outcomes; and new text end

new text begin (2) a cost-benefit analysis for understanding the monetary impacts of workforce services from the participant and taxpayer points of view. new text end

new text begin The report under this paragraph must be made available to the public in an electronic format on the Department of Employment and Economic Development's Web site. new text end

new text begin (d) The department is authorized to create and maintain data-sharing agreements with other departments, including corrections, human services, and any other department that are necessary to complete the analysis. The department shall supply the information collected for use by the independent entity conducting net impact analysis pursuant to the data practices requirements under chapters 13, 13A, 13B, and 13C. new text end

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 179.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Receipt of gifts, money; appropriation. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner may apply for, accept, and disburse gifts, bequests, grants, or payments for services from the United States, the state, private foundations, or any other source. new text end

new text begin (b) Money received by the commissioner under this subdivision must be deposited in a separate account in the state treasury and invested by the State Board of Investment. The amount deposited, including investment earnings, is appropriated to the commissioner to carry out duties of the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (c) The commissioner must post and maintain, on the Bureau of Mediation Services Web site, a list of the sources of funds and amounts received under this subdivision. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 181A.07, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Approved training programs. new text end

new text begin The commissioner may grant exemptions from any provisions of sections 181A.01 to 181A.12 for minors participating in training programs approved by the commissioner; or students in a valid apprenticeship program taught by or required by a trade union, the commissioner of education, the commissioner of employment and economic development, the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, or the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota. new text end

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 216B.241, subdivision 1d, is amended to read:

Subd. 1d.

Technical assistance.

new text begin (a) new text end The commissioner shall evaluate energy conservation improvement programs on the basis of cost-effectiveness and the reliability of the technologies employed. The commissioner shall, by order, establish, maintain, and update energy-savings assumptions that must be used when filing energy conservation improvement programs. The commissioner shall establish an inventory of the most effective energy conservation programs, techniques, and technologies, and encourage all Minnesota utilities to implement them, where appropriate, in their service territories. The commissioner shall describe these programs in sufficient detail to provide a utility reasonable guidance concerning implementation. The commissioner shall prioritize the opportunities in order of potential energy savings and in order of cost-effectiveness. The commissioner may contract with a third party to carry out any of the commissioner's duties under this subdivision, and to obtain technical assistance to evaluate the effectiveness of any conservation improvement program. The commissioner may assess up to deleted text begin $800,000 annually until June 30, 2009, and $450,000deleted text end new text begin $850,000new text end annually deleted text begin thereafterdeleted text end for the purposes of this subdivision. The assessments must be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the energy and conservation account created under subdivision 2a. An assessment made under this subdivision is not subject to the cap on assessments provided by section 216B.62, or any other law.

new text begin (b) Of the assessment authorized under paragraph (a), the commissioner may expend up to $400,000 annually for the purpose of developing, operating, maintaining, and providing technical support for a uniform electronic data reporting and tracking system available to all utilities subject to this section, in order to enable accurate measurement of the cost and energy savings of the energy conservation improvements required by this section. This paragraph expires June 30, 2017, and may be used for no more than three annual assessments occurring prior to that date. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment and applies to assessments made after June 30, 2014. new text end

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 216C.145, is amended to read:

216C.145 deleted text begin MICROENERGYdeleted text end new text begin COMMUNITY ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY new text end LOAN PROGRAM.

Subdivision 1.

Definitions.

(a) The definitions in this subdivision apply to this section.

(b) "deleted text begin Small-scaledeleted text end new text begin Community energy efficiency and new text end renewable energy new text begin projectsnew text end " deleted text begin projects includedeleted text end new text begin meansnew text end solar thermal water heating, solar electric or photovoltaic equipment, small wind energy conversion systems of less than 250 kW, anaerobic digester gas systems, microhydro systems up to 100 kW, deleted text begin anddeleted text end heating and cooling applications using deleted text begin geothermal energydeleted text end new text begin solar thermal or ground source technology, and cost-effective energy efficiency projects installed in industrial, commercial or public buildings, or health care facilitiesnew text end .

new text begin (c) "Health care facilities" means a hospital licensed under sections 144.50 to 144.56, or a nursing home licensed under chapter 144A. new text end

new text begin (d) "Industrial customer" means a business that is classified under the North American Industrial Classification System under codes 21, 31 to 33, 48, 49, or 562. new text end

new text begin (e) "Small business" means a business that employs 50 or fewer employees. new text end

deleted text begin (c)deleted text end new text begin (f)new text end "Unit of local government" means any home rule charter or statutory city, county, commission, district, authority, or other political subdivision or instrumentality of this state, including a sanitary district, park district, the Metropolitan Council, a port authority, an economic development authority, or a housing and redevelopment authority.

Subd. 2.

Program established.

The commissioner of commerce shall develop, implement, and administer a deleted text begin microenergydeleted text end new text begin community energy efficiency and renewable energy new text end loan program under this section.

Subd. 3.

Loan purposes.

(a) The commissioner may issue low-interest, long-term loans to units of local government tonew text begin :new text end

new text begin (1) new text end finance community-owned or publicly owned deleted text begin small scaledeleted text end renewable energy systems or deleted text begin todeleted text end new text begin cost-effective energy efficiency improvements to public buildings; ornew text end

deleted text begin provide loans or other aids to small businesses to install deleted text end deleted text begin small-scaledeleted text end deleted text begin renewable deleted text end deleted text begin energy systemsdeleted text end

new text begin (2) provide loans or other aids to industrial or commercial businesses or health care facilities for cost-effective energy efficiency projects or to install renewable energy systemsnew text end .

(b) The commissioner may participate in loans made by the Housing Finance Agency to residential property owners, private developers, nonprofit organizations, or units of local government under sections 462A.05, subdivisions 14 and 18; and 462A.33 for the construction, purchase, or rehabilitation of residential housing to facilitate the installation of deleted text begin small-scaledeleted text end renewable energy systems in residential housing and cost-effective energy conservation improvements identified in an energy efficiency audit. The commissioner shall assist the Housing Finance Agency in assessing the technical qualifications of loan applicants.

new text begin (c) If an industrial, commercial, or health care facility customer seeks a loan under paragraph (a), clause (2), the commissioner may require an individual industrial, commercial, or health care facility customer to provide its energy usage data for the limited purpose of assessing the energy and cost savings of the project that is subject to the loan. Industrial, commercial, or health care facility customer's energy usage data may only be released upon the express, written consent of the individual industrial, commercial, or health care facility customer. The commissioner shall not require an industrial, commercial, or health care facility customer to provide energy usage data or aggregation of energy usage data that includes an industrial, commercial, or health care facility customer for any other loan under this section. Any individual industrial, commercial, or health care facility customer's energy usage data provided under this section shall be classified as nonpublic data as defined in section 13.02, subdivision 9. new text end

Subd. 4.

Technical standards.

The commissioner shall determine technical standards for deleted text begin small-scale renewable energy systemsdeleted text end new text begin community energy efficiency and renewable energy projects new text end to qualify for loans under this section.

Subd. 5.

Loan proposals.

(a) At least once a year, the commissioner shall publish in the State Register a request for proposals from units of local government for a loan under this section. Within 45 days after the deadline for receipt of proposals, the commissioner shall select proposals based on the following criteria:

(1) the reliability and cost-effectiveness of the renewable new text begin or energy efficiency new text end technology to be installed under the proposal;

(2) the extent to which the proposal effectively integrates with the conservation and energy efficiency programs new text begin or goals new text end of the energy utilities serving the proposer;

(3) the total life cycle energy use and greenhouse gas emissions reductions per dollar of installed cost;

(4) the diversity of the renewable energy new text begin or energy efficiency new text end technology installed under the proposal;

(5) the geographic distribution of projects throughout the state;

(6) the percentage of total project cost requested;

(7) the proposed security for payback of the loan; and

(8) other criteria the commissioner may determine to be necessary and appropriate.

Subd. 6.

Loan terms.

A loan under this section must be issued at the lowest interest rate required to recover principal and interest plus the costs of issuing the loan, and must be for a minimum of 15 years, unless the commissioner determines that a shorter loan period of no less than deleted text begin tendeleted text end new text begin five new text end years is necessary and feasible.

Subd. 7.

Account.

A deleted text begin microenergydeleted text end new text begin community energy efficiency and renewable energynew text end loan account is established in the state treasury. Money in the account consists of the proceeds of revenue bonds issued under section 216C.146, interest and other earnings on money in the account, money received in repayment of loans from the account, legislative appropriations, and money from any other source credited to the account.

Subd. 8.

Appropriation.

Money in the account is appropriated to the commissioner of commerce to make deleted text begin microenergydeleted text end new text begin community energy efficiency and renewable energynew text end loans under this section and to the commissioner of management and budget to pay debt service and other costs under section 216C.146. Payment of debt service costs and funding reserves take priority over use of money in the account for any other purpose.

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 216C.146, is amended to read:

216C.146 deleted text begin MICROENERGYdeleted text end new text begin COMMUNITY ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND RENEWABLE ENERGYnew text end LOAN REVENUE BONDS.

Subdivision 1.

Bonding authority; definition.

(a) The commissioner of management and budget, if requested by the commissioner of commerce, shall sell and issue state revenue bonds for the following purposes:

(1) to make deleted text begin microenergydeleted text end new text begin community energy efficiency and renewable energynew text end loans under section 216C.145;

(2) to pay the costs of issuance, debt service, new text begin including capitalized interest, new text end and bond insurance or other credit enhancements, deleted text begin anddeleted text end to fund reservesnew text begin , and make payments under other agreements entered into under subdivision 2, but excludes refunding bonds sold and issued under this subdivisionnew text end ; and

(3) to refund bonds issued under this section.

(b) The aggregate principal amount of bonds for the purposes of paragraph (a), clause (1), that may be outstanding at any time may not exceednew text begin $100,000,000, of which up tonew text end $20,000,000new text begin shall be reserved for community energy efficiency and renewable energy projects taking place in small businesses and public buildingsnew text end ; the principal amount of bonds that may be issued for the purposes of paragraph (a), clauses (2) and (3), is not limited.

(c) For the purpose of this section, "commissioner" means the commissioner of management and budget.

new text begin (d) Revenue bonds may be issued from time to time in one or more series on the terms and conditions the commissioner determines to be in the best interests of the state at any price or percentages of par value, but the term on any series of revenue bonds may not exceed 25 years. The revenue bonds of each issue and series thereof shall be dated and bear interest, and may be includable in or excludable from the gross income of the owners for federal income tax purposes. new text end

new text begin (e) Revenue bonds may be sold at either public or private sale. Any bid received may be rejected. new text end

new text begin (f) The revenue bonds are not subject to chapter 16C. new text end

new text begin (g) Notwithstanding any other law, revenue bonds issued under this section shall be fully negotiable. new text end

new text begin (h) Revenue bond terms must be no longer than the term of any corresponding loan made under section 216C.145. new text end

Subd. 2.

Procedure.

The commissioner may sell and issue the bonds on the terms and conditions the commissioner determines to be in the best interests of the state. The bonds may be sold at public or private sale. The commissioner may enter into any agreements or pledges the commissioner determines necessary or useful to sell the bonds that are not inconsistent with section 216C.145. Sections 16A.672 to 16A.675 apply to the bonds. The proceeds of the bonds issued under this section must be credited to the deleted text begin microenergydeleted text end new text begin community energy efficiency and renewable energynew text end loan account created under section 216C.145.

Subd. 3.

Revenue sources.

The debt service on the bonds is payable only from the following sources:

(1) revenue credited to the deleted text begin microenergydeleted text end new text begin community energy efficiency and renewable energynew text end loan account from the sources identified in section 216C.145 or from any other source; and

(2) other revenues pledged to the payment of the bondsnew text begin , including reserves established by a local government unitnew text end .

Subd. 4.

Refunding bonds.

The commissioner may issue bonds to refund outstanding bonds issued under subdivision 1, including the payment of any redemption premiums on the bonds and any interest accrued or to accrue to the first redemption date after delivery of the refunding bonds. The proceeds of the refunding bonds may, at the discretion of the commissioner, be applied to the purchases or payment at maturity of the bonds to be refunded, or the redemption of the outstanding bonds on the first redemption date after delivery of the refunding bonds and may, until so used, be placed in escrow to be applied to the purchase, retirement, or redemption. Refunding bonds issued under this subdivision must be issued and secured in the manner provided by the commissioner.

Subd. 5.

Not a general or moral obligation.

Bonds issued under this section are not public debt, and the full faith, credit, and taxing powers of the state are not pledged for their payment. The bonds may not be paid, directly in whole or in part from a tax of statewide application on any class of property, income, transaction, or privilege. Payment of the bonds is limited to the revenues explicitly authorized to be pledged under this section. The state neither makes nor has a moral obligation to pay the bonds if the pledged revenues and other legal security for them is insufficient.

Subd. 6.

Trustee.

The commissioner may contract with and appoint a trustee for bondholders. The trustee has the powers and authority vested in it by the commissioner under the bond and trust indentures.

Subd. 7.

Pledges.

A pledge made by the commissioner is valid and binding from the time the pledge is made. The money or property pledged and later received by the commissioner is immediately subject to the lien of the pledge without any physical delivery of the property or money or further act, and the lien of the pledge is valid and binding as against all parties having claims of any kind in tort, contract, or otherwise against the commissioner, whether or not those parties have notice of the lien or pledge. Neither the order nor any other instrument by which a pledge is created need be recorded.

Subd. 8.

Bonds; purchase and cancellation.

The commissioner, subject to agreements with bondholders that may then exist, may, out of any money available for the purpose, purchase bonds of the commissioner at a price not exceeding (1) if the bonds are then redeemable, the redemption price then applicable plus accrued interest to the next interest payment date thereon, or (2) if the bonds are not redeemable, the redemption price applicable on the first date after the purchase upon which the bonds become subject to redemption plus accrued interest to that date.

Subd. 9.

State pledge against impairment of contracts.

The state pledges and agrees with the holders of any bonds that the state will not limit or alter the rights vested in the commissioner to fulfill the terms of any agreements made with the bondholders, or in any way impair the rights and remedies of the holders until the bonds, together with interest on them, with interest on any unpaid installments of interest, and all costs and expenses in connection with any action or proceeding by or on behalf of the bondholders, are fully met and discharged. The commissioner may include this pledge and agreement of the state in any agreement with the holders of bonds issued under this section.

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Revenue bonds as legal investments. new text end

new text begin Any of the following entities may legally invest any sinking funds, money, or other funds belonging to them or under their control in any revenue bonds issued under this section: new text end

new text begin (1) the state, the investment board, public officers, municipal corporations, political subdivisions, and public bodies; new text end

new text begin (2) banks and bankers, savings and loan associations, credit unions, trust companies, savings banks and institutions, investment companies, insurance companies, insurance associations, and other persons carrying on a banking or insurance business; and new text end

new text begin (3) personal representatives, guardians, trustees, and other fiduciaries. new text end

new text begin Subd. 11. new text end

new text begin Waiver of immunity. new text end

new text begin The waiver of immunity by the state provided for by section 3.751, subdivision 1, shall be applicable to the revenue bonds and any ancillary contracts to which the commissioner is a party. new text end

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 268A.01, subdivision 14, is amended to read:

Subd. 14.

Affirmative business enterprise employment.

"Affirmative business enterprise employment" means employment which provides paid work on the premises of an affirmative business enterprise as certified by the commissioner.

Affirmative business enterprise employment is considered community employment for purposes of funding under Minnesota Rules, parts 3300.1000 to 3300.2055, provided that the wages for individuals reported must be at or above customary wages for the same employer. The employer must also provide one benefit package that is available to all employeesnew text begin at the specific site certified as an affirmative business enterprisenew text end .

Sec. 14.

new text begin [268A.16] EMPLOYMENT SERVICES FOR PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF, DEAFBLIND, OR HARD-OF-HEARING. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing grants. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner shall develop and implement a specialized statewide grant program to provide long-term supported employment services for persons who are deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing. Programs and services eligible for grants under this section must: new text end

new text begin (1) assist persons who are deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing in retaining and advancing in employment; new text end

new text begin (2) provide services with staff who must possess fluency in all forms of manual communication, including American Sign Language; knowledge of hearing loss and psychosocial implications; sensitivity to cultural issues; familiarity with community services and communication strategies for people who are hard-of-hearing and do not sign; and awareness of adaptive technology options; new text end

new text begin (3) provide specialized employment support services for individuals who have a combined hearing and vision loss that address the individual's unique ongoing visual and auditory communication needs; and new text end

new text begin (4) involve clients in the planning, development, oversight, and delivery of long-term ongoing support services. new text end

new text begin (b) Priority for funding shall be given to organizations with experience in developing innovative employment support services for persons who are deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing. Each applicant for funds under this section shall submit an evaluation protocol as part of the grant application. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Employment services for transition-aged youth who are deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner shall develop statewide or regional grant programs to provide school-based communication, access, and employment services for youth who are deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing. Services must include staff who have the skills addressed in subdivision 1, clauses (2) and (3), and expertise in serving transition-aged youth. new text end

new text begin (b) Priority for funding shall be given to organizations with experience in providing innovative employment support services and readiness for postsecondary training for transition-aged youths who are deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing. Each applicant for funds under this section shall submit an evaluation protocol as part of the grant application. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Administration. new text end

new text begin Up to five percent of the biennial appropriation for the purpose of this section is available to the commissioner for administration of the program. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective upon enactment of a direct appropriation for grants under this section. new text end

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 298.28, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

City or town where quarried or produced.

(a) 4.5 cents per gross ton of merchantable iron ore concentrate, hereinafter referred to as "taxable ton," plus the amount provided in paragraph (c), must be allocated to the city or town in the county in which the lands from which taconite was mined or quarried were located or within which the concentrate was produced. If the mining, quarrying, and concentration, or different steps in either thereof are carried on in more than one taxing district, the commissioner shall apportion equitably the proceeds of the part of the tax going to cities and towns among such subdivisions upon the basis of attributing 50 percent of the proceeds of the tax to the operation of mining or quarrying the taconite, and the remainder to the concentrating plant and to the processes of concentration, and with respect to each thereof giving due consideration to the relative extent of such operations performed in each such taxing district. The commissioner's order making such apportionment shall be subject to review by the Tax Court at the instance of any of the interested taxing districts, in the same manner as other orders of the commissioner.

(b) Four cents per taxable ton shall be allocated to cities and organized townships affected by mining because their boundaries are within three miles of a taconite mine pit that has been actively mined in at least one of the prior three years. If a city or town is located near more than one mine meeting these criteria, the city or town is eligible to receive aid calculated from only the mine producing the largest taxable tonnage. When more than one municipality qualifies for aid based on one company's production, the aid must be apportioned among the municipalities in proportion to their populations. deleted text begin Ofdeleted text end The amounts distributed under this paragraph to each municipalitydeleted text begin , one-halfdeleted text end must be used for infrastructure improvement projectsdeleted text begin , and one-half must be used for projects in which two or more municipalities cooperate. Each municipality that receives a distribution under this paragraph must report annually to the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board and the commissioner of Iron Range resources and rehabilitation on the projects involving cooperation with other municipalitiesdeleted text end .

(c) The amount that would have been computed for the current year under Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 126C.21, subdivision 4, for a school district shall be distributed to the cities and townships within the school district in the proportion that their taxable net tax capacity within the school district bears to the taxable net tax capacity of the school district for property taxes payable in the year prior to distribution.

Sec. 16.

Laws 2013, chapter 143, article 11, section 10, is amended to read:

Sec. 10.

2013 DISTRIBUTION ONLY.

For the 2013 distribution, a special fund is established to receive 38.7 cents per ton of any excess of the balance remaining after distribution of amounts required under Minnesota Statutes, section 298.28, subdivision 6. The following amounts are allocated to St. Louis County acting as the fiscal agent for the recipients for the following specific purposes:

(1) 5.1 cents per ton to the city of Hibbing for improvements to the city's water supply system;

(2) 4.3 cents per ton to the city of Mountain Iron for the cost of moving utilities required as a result of actions undertaken by United States Steel Corporation;

(3) 2.5 cents per ton to the city of Biwabik for improvements to the city's water deleted text begin supply system, payable upon agreement with ArcelorMittal to satisfy water permit conditionsdeleted text end new text begin system to further the established collaborative efforts between the city of Biwabik, the city of Aurora, and surrounding communitiesnew text end ;

(4) 2 cents per ton to the city of Tower for the Tower Marina;

(5) 2.4 cents per ton to the city of Grand Rapids for an eco-friendly heat transfer system to replace aging effluent lines and for parking lot repaving;

(6) 2.4 cents per ton to the city of Two Harbors for wastewater treatment plant improvements;

(7) 0.9 cents per ton to the city of Ely for the sanitary sewer replacement project;

(8) 0.6 cents per ton to the town of Crystal Bay for debt service of the Claire Nelson Intermodal Transportation Center;

(9) 0.5 cents per ton to the Greenway Joint Recreation Board for the Coleraine hockey arena renovations;

(10) 1.2 cents per ton for the West Range Regional Fire Hall and Training Center to merge the existing fire services of Coleraine, Bovey, Taconite Marble, Calumet, and Greenway Township;

(11) 2.5 cents per ton to the city of Hibbing for the Memorial Building;

(12) 0.7 cents per ton to the city of Chisholm for public works infrastructure;

(13) 1.8 cents per ton to the Crane Lake Water and Sanitary District for sanitary sewer extension;

(14) 2.5 cents per ton for the city of Buhl for the roof on the Mesabi Academy;

(15) 1.2 cents per ton to the city of Gilbert for the New Jersey/Ohio Avenue project;

(16) deleted text begin 1.5deleted text end new text begin 2.0new text end cents per ton to the city of Cook for street improvements, business park infrastructure, and a maintenance garage;

deleted text begin (17) 0.5 cents per ton to the city of Cook for a water line project; deleted text end

deleted text begin (18)deleted text end new text begin (17)new text end 1.8 cents per ton to the city of Eveleth to be used for Jones Street reconstruction and the city auditorium;

deleted text begin (19)deleted text end new text begin (18)new text end 0.5 cents new text begin per tonnew text end for the city of Keewatin for an electrical substation and water line replacements;

deleted text begin (20)deleted text end new text begin (19)new text end 3.3 cents new text begin per tonnew text end for the city of Virginia for Fourth Street North infrastructure and Franklin Park improvement; and

deleted text begin (21)deleted text end new text begin (20)new text end 0.5 cents per ton to the city of Grand Rapids for an economic development project.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 17.

new text begin 2014 DISTRIBUTION ONLY. new text end

new text begin For the 2014 distribution, a special fund is established to receive 18.84 cents per ton of any excess of the balance remaining after distribution of amounts required under Minnesota Statutes, section 298.28, subdivision 6. The following amounts are allocated to St. Louis County acting as the fiscal agent for the recipients for the following specific purposes: new text end

new text begin (1) 1.3 cents per ton to the city of Silver Bay for a water project under Highway 61; new text end

new text begin (2) 0.5 cents per ton to the city of Grand Rapids for soil and landscape remediation at the Reif Center; new text end

new text begin (3) 0.65 cents per ton to the city of LaPrairie for sewer, water, and road improvements to accommodate business expansion in the city; new text end

new text begin (4) 0.78 cents per ton to the city of Cohasset for an infrastructure project; new text end

new text begin (5) 0.39 cents per ton to Balkan Township for a salt storage building and energy-efficient cold storage building; new text end

new text begin (6) 3.0 cents per ton to the city of McKinley to construct a water line from the city of Gilbert or the city of Biwabik to the city of McKinley's distribution center in order to secure a potable water source for the city, provided that the city of McKinley secures the remainder of the project costs from other sources, and expires three years following the date of distribution; new text end

new text begin (7) 6.5 cents per ton to the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board for township block grants to be distributed by the board; new text end

new text begin (8) 0.5 cents per ton to the city of Marble for a water main and looping project; new text end

new text begin (9) 0.65 cents per ton to the city of Nashwauk for an infrastructure project; new text end

new text begin (10) 0.35 cents per ton to the city of Babbitt for demolition of a public building; new text end

new text begin (11) 0.65 cents per ton to the city of Hoyt Lakes for a storm water project; new text end

new text begin (12) 0.65 cents per ton to the city of Aurora for an infrastructure project; new text end

new text begin (13) 0.65 cents per ton to the town of Silver Creek for an infrastructure project; new text end

new text begin (14) 0.5 cents per ton to the city of Calumet for an infrastructure project; new text end

new text begin (15) 0.5 cents per ton to Nashwauk Township for the Nashwauk town hall; new text end

new text begin (16) 0.5 cents per ton to the city of Biwabik for emergency repair of a wastewater treatment project; new text end

new text begin (17) 0.47 cents per ton to the city of Cuyuna for improvements to city properties and facilities, including construction, electrical, water, sewer, and site preparation; and new text end

new text begin (18) 0.3 cents per ton to Morse Township for a recreational trail. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective for the 2014 distribution, and all payments must be made separately and within ten days of the date of the August 2014 payment. new text end

Sec. 18.

new text begin CIP ELECTRONIC DATA REPORTING AND TRACKING SYSTEM; EVALUATION. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of commerce may utilize a stakeholder group to annually monitor the usability and product development of systems for electronic data reporting and tracking for the use of utilities under the conservation improvement plan program under Minnesota Statutes, section 216B.241. The initial group may be convened by November 1, 2014, and must, among others, include representatives from all sectors of the gas and electric utility industry and providers of energy conservation. new text end

Sec. 19.

new text begin INNOVATION VOUCHER PILOT PROGRAM. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of employment and economic development shall develop and implement an innovation voucher pilot program to provide financing to small businesses to purchase technical assistance and services from public higher education institutions and nonprofit entities to assist in the development or commercialization of innovative new products or services. new text end

new text begin (b) Funds available under this section may be used by a small business to access technical assistance and other services including, but not limited to: research, technical development, product development, commercialization, market development, technology exploration, and improved business practices including strategies to grow business and create operational efficiencies. new text end

new text begin (c) To be eligible for a voucher under this section, a business must enter into an agreement with the commissioner that includes: new text end

new text begin (1) a list of the technical assistance and services the business proposes to purchase and from whom the services will be purchased; and new text end

new text begin (2) deliverable outcomes in one of the following areas: new text end

new text begin (i) research and development; new text end

new text begin (ii) business model development; new text end

new text begin (iii) market feasibility; new text end

new text begin (iv) operations; or new text end

new text begin (v) other outcomes determined by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin As part of the agreement, the commissioner must approve the technical assistance and services to be purchased, and the entities from which the services or technical assistance will be purchased. new text end

new text begin (d) For the purposes of this section, a small business means a business with fewer than 40 employees. new text end

new text begin (e) A voucher award must not exceed $25,000 per business. new text end

new text begin (f) The commissioner must report to the chairs of the committees of the house of representatives and senate having jurisdiction over economic development and workforce policy and finance issues by December 1, 2014, on the vouchers awarded to date. new text end

Sec. 20.

new text begin COMMISSIONER'S ACCOUNTABILITY PLAN. new text end

new text begin By December 1, 2014, the commissioner shall report to the committees of the house of representatives and senate having jurisdiction over workforce development and economic development policy and finance issues, on the department's plan, and any request for funding, to design and implement a performance accountability outcome measurement system for programs under Minnesota Statutes, chapters 116J and 116L. new text end

Sec. 21.

new text begin COMPETENCY STANDARDS: ADVANCED MANUFACTURING, HEALTH CARE SERVICES, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, AND AGRICULTURE. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of labor and industry, in collaboration with the commissioner of employment and economic development, shall establish competency standards for programs in advanced manufacturing, health care services, information technology, and agriculture. This initiative shall be administered by the Department of Labor and Industry. In establishing the competency standards, the commissioner shall convene recognized industry experts, representative employers, higher education institutions, and representatives of labor to assist in defining credible competency standards acceptable to the advanced manufacturing, health care services, information technology, and agriculture industries. new text end

new text begin (b) The outcomes expected from the initiatives in this section include: new text end

new text begin (1) establishment of competency standards for entry level and at least two additional higher skill levels in each industry; new text end

new text begin (2) verification of competency standards and skill levels and their transferability by representatives of each respective industry; new text end

new text begin (3) models of ways for Minnesota educational institutions to engage in providing education and training to meet the competency standards established; and new text end

new text begin (4) participation from the identified industry sectors. new text end

new text begin (c) By January 15, 2015, the commissioner of labor and industry shall report to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over jobs on the progress and success, including outcomes, of the initiatives in this section and recommendations on occupations in which similar competency standards should be developed and implemented. new text end

Sec. 22.

new text begin AGRICULTURAL EMPLOYMENT; REPORT. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of labor and industry shall report by January 1, 2015, to the chairs and ranking minority members of the standing committees of the house of representatives and senate with jurisdiction over labor policy and finance issues on the number of agricultural employers who are using a 48 hour work week and the number of employees affected. The commissioner shall include recommendations for appropriate compensation for such agricultural employees. For the purposes of this section, "agriculture" has the meaning given in Minnesota Rules, part 5200.0260. new text end

Sec. 23.

new text begin REPEALER. new text end

new text begin Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 116J.997, new text end new text begin is repealed. new text end

ARTICLE 4

STATE DEPARTMENTS AND VETERANS

Section 1.

new text begin STATE DEPARTMENTS AND VETERANS APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are added to the appropriations in Laws 2013, chapter 142, article 1, 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 addition to the appropriation listed under them is available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, or June 30, 2015, respectively. Supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, are effective the day following final enactment. 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. 2.

new text begin STATE DEPARTMENTS AND VETERANS APPROPRIATIONS new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Legislative Coordinating Commission new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 380,000 new text end

new text begin $225,000 is for operating costs of the joint legislative offices. $150,000 each year is added to the base. new text end

new text begin $155,000 is for the Legislative Water Commission established in section 3. $145,000 each fiscal year is added to the base through fiscal year 2019. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Minnesota Housing Finance Agency new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 250,000 new text end

new text begin $250,000 is for at least five grants of up to $50,000 each to conduct a housing needs assessment for veterans in any community within the state. No more than five percent may be used by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency to administer these grants. The grants may be awarded to any government or nongovernmental organization. The assessment, which may be a study or a survey, may examine the need for scattered site housing for veterans and their families who are homeless or in danger of homelessness or for housing that addresses the health care needs of disabled or aging veterans. The assessment must be started by July 30, 2015, and completed by July 30, 2016. The commissioner of the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency must provide copies of any completed assessment to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over housing and veterans affairs no later than January 1, 2017. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Racing Commission new text end

new text begin 100,000 new text end new text begin 85,000 new text end

new text begin These appropriations are from the racing and card playing regulation accounts in the special revenue fund. These appropriations are onetime and are available in either year of the biennium. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Amateur Sports Commission new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 50,000 new text end

new text begin $50,000 is to develop a pilot program to prevent and reduce childhood obesity. This appropriation is onetime and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Minnesota Historical Society new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 25,000 new text end

new text begin $25,000 is for a grant to Farm America for repairs and maintenance of the Minnesota Agricultural Interpretive Center and for audit expenses. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Board of the Arts new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 750,000 new text end

new text begin $750,000 is appropriated from the arts and cultural heritage fund for arts education in partnership with the President's Turnaround Arts Initiative. This appropriation is contingent on Minnesota being designated a Turnaround site. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2015. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Minnesota Humanities Center new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 225,000 new text end

new text begin $125,000 is from the arts and cultural heritage fund for the Veterans' Voices program to educate and engage the community regarding veterans' contributions, knowledge, skills, and experiences. Of this amount, $25,000 is for transfer to the Association of Minnesota Public Education Radio Stations for statewide programming to promote the Veterans' Voices program. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $100,000 is from the arts and cultural heritage fund for professional development for kindergarten through grade 12 educators to better culturally engage their work with at-risk student populations. This may include new and original literature that addresses literacy of emerging cultural communities. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Department of Education new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 44,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Board of Accountancy new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 44,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape, Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 44,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 11. new text end

new text begin Board of Cosmetologist Examiners new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 20,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 12. new text end

new text begin Board of Barber Examiners new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 10,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 13. new text end

new text begin Board of Private Detectives new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 44,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 14. new text end

new text begin Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 15,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 15. new text end

new text begin Board of Dentistry new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 10,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 16. new text end

new text begin Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 10,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 17. new text end

new text begin Board of Marriage and Family Therapy new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 14,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 18. new text end

new text begin Board of Nursing Home Administrators new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 1,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 19. new text end

new text begin Board of Optometry new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 10,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 20. new text end

new text begin Board of Podiatric Medicine new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 10,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 21. new text end

new text begin Board of Social Work new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 3,000 new text end

new text begin This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund to implement expedited and temporary licensing provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 197.4552. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

Sec. 3.

new text begin [3.886] LEGISLATIVE WATER COMMISSION. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Establishment. new text end

new text begin A Legislative Water Commission is established. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Membership. new text end

new text begin (a) The Legislative Water Commission consists of 12 members appointed as follows: new text end

new text begin (1) six members of the senate, including three majority party members appointed by the majority leader and three minority party members appointed by the minority leader; and new text end

new text begin (2) six members of the house of representatives, including three majority party members appointed by the speaker of the house and three minority party members appointed by the minority leader. new text end

new text begin (b) Members serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and continue to serve until their successors are appointed or until a member is no longer a member of the legislative body that appointed the member to the commission. Vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as the original positions. Vacancies occurring on the commission do not affect the authority of the remaining members of the Legislative Water Commission to carry out the function of the commission. new text end

new text begin (c) Members shall elect a chair, vice chair, and other officers as determined by the commission. The chair may convene meetings as necessary to conduct the duties prescribed by this section. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Commission staffing. new text end

new text begin The Legislative Coordinating Commission must employ staff and contract with consultants as necessary to enable the Legislative Water Commission to carry out its duties and functions. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Powers and duties. new text end

new text begin (a) The Legislative Water Commission shall review water policy reports and recommendations of the Environmental Quality Board, the Board of Water and Soil Resources, the Pollution Control Agency, the Department of Natural Resources, the Metropolitan Council, and other water-related reports as may be required by law or the legislature. new text end

new text begin (b) The commission may conduct public hearings and otherwise secure data and comments. new text end

new text begin (c) The commission shall make recommendations as it deems proper to assist the legislature in formulating legislation. new text end

new text begin (d) Data or information compiled by the Legislative Water Commission or its subcommittees shall be made available to the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources, the Clean Water Council, and standing and interim committees of the legislature on request of the chair of the respective commission, council, or committee. new text end

new text begin (e) The commission shall coordinate with the Clean Water Council. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Compensation. new text end

new text begin Members of the commission may receive per diem and expense reimbursement incurred doing the work of the commission in the manner and amount prescribed for per diem and expense payments by the senate Committee on Rules and Administration and the house of representatives Committee on Rules and Legislative Administration. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Expiration. new text end

new text begin This section expires July 1, 2019. new text end

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, section 15A.082, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Creation.

A Compensation Council is created each odd-numbered year to assist the legislature in establishing the compensation of constitutional officers, deleted text begin members of the legislature,deleted text end justices of the Supreme Court, judges of the Court of Appeals and district court, and the heads of state and metropolitan agencies included in section 15A.0815.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, section 15A.082, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Submission of recommendations.

(a) By deleted text begin Marchdeleted text end new text begin Aprilnew text end 15 in each odd-numbered year, the Compensation Council shall submit to the speaker of the house and the president of the senate salary recommendations for constitutional officers, deleted text begin legislators,deleted text end justices of the Supreme Court, and judges of the Court of Appeals and district court. The recommended salary for each new text begin othernew text end office must take effect on the first Monday in January of the next odd-numbered year, with no more than one adjustment, to take effect on January 1 of the year after that. The salary recommendations for deleted text begin legislators,deleted text end judgesdeleted text begin ,deleted text end and constitutional officers take effect if an appropriation of money to pay the recommended salaries is enacted after the recommendations are submitted and before their effective date. Recommendations may be expressly modified or rejected. deleted text begin The salary recommendations for legislators are subject to additional terms that may be adopted according to section 3.099, subdivisions 1 and 3.deleted text end

(b) The council shall also submit to the speaker of the house and the president of the senate recommendations for the salary ranges of the heads of state and metropolitan agencies, to be effective retroactively from January 1 of that year if enacted into law. The recommendations shall include the appropriate group in section 15A.0815 to which each agency head should be assigned and the appropriate limitation on the maximum range of the salaries of the agency heads in each group, expressed as a percentage of the salary of the governor.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 15A.082, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Criteria.

In making compensation recommendations, the council shall consider the amount of compensation paid in government service and the private sector to persons with similar qualifications, the amount of compensation needed to attract and retain experienced and competent persons, and the ability of the state to pay the recommended compensation. deleted text begin In making recommendations for legislative compensation, the council shall also consider the average length of a legislative session, the amount of work required of legislators during interim periods, and opportunities to earn income from other sources without neglecting legislative duties.deleted text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 16C.16, subdivision 6a, is amended to read:

Subd. 6a.

Veteran-owned small businesses.

(a) Except when mandated by the federal government as a condition of receiving federal funds, the commissioner shall award up to a six percent preference, but no less than the percentage awarded to any other group under this section, in the amount bid on state procurement to certified small businesses that are majority-owned and operated bydeleted text begin :deleted text end new text begin veterans.new text end

deleted text begin (1) recently separated veterans who have served in active military service, at any time on or after September 11, 2001, and who have been discharged under honorable conditions from active service, as indicated by the person's United States Department of Defense form DD-214 or by the commissioner of veterans affairs; deleted text end

deleted text begin (2) veterans with service-connected disabilities, as determined at any time by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs; or deleted text end

deleted text begin (3) any other veteran-owned small businesses certified under section 16C.19, paragraph (d). deleted text end

(b) The purpose of this designation is to facilitate the transition of veterans from military to civilian life, and to help compensate veterans for their sacrifices, including but not limited to their sacrifice of health and time, to the state and nation during their military service, as well as to enhance economic development within Minnesota.

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 16C.19, is amended to read:

16C.19 ELIGIBILITY; RULES.

(a) A small business wishing to participate in the programs under section 16C.16, subdivisions 4 to 7, must be certified by the commissioner. The commissioner shall adopt by rule standards and procedures for certifying that deleted text begin small businesses,deleted text end small targeted group businesses, deleted text begin anddeleted text end small businesses located in economically disadvantaged areasnew text begin , and veteran-owned small businesses new text end are eligible to participate under the requirements of sections 16C.16 to 16C.21. The commissioner shall adopt by rule standards and procedures for hearing appeals and grievances and other rules necessary to carry out the duties set forth in sections 16C.16 to 16C.21.

(b) The commissioner may make rules which exclude or limit the participation of nonmanufacturing business, including third-party lessors, brokers, franchises, jobbers, manufacturers' representatives, and others from eligibility under sections 16C.16 to 16C.21.

(c) The commissioner may make rules that set time limits and other eligibility limits on business participation in programs under sections 16C.16 to 16C.21.

(d) Notwithstanding paragraph (c), for purposes of sections 16C.16 to 16C.21, a veteran-owned small business, the principal place of business of which is in Minnesota, is certified if it has been verified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as being either a veteran-owned small business or a service-disabled veteran-owned small business, in accordance with Public Law 109-461 and Code of Federal Regulations, title 38, part 74.

new text begin (e) Until rules are adopted pursuant to paragraph (a) for the purpose of certifying veteran-owned small businesses, the provisions of Minnesota Rules, part 1230.1700, may be read to include veteran-owned small businesses. In addition to the documentation required in Minnesota Rules, part 1230.1700, the veteran owner must have been discharged under honorable conditions from active service, as indicated by the veteran owner's most current United States Department of Defense form DD-214. new text end

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 122A.18, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 7c. new text end

new text begin Temporary military license. new text end

new text begin The Board of Teaching shall establish a temporary license in accordance with section 197.4552 for teaching. The fee for a temporary license under this subdivision shall be $87.90 for an online application or $86.40 for a paper application. new text end

Sec. 10.

new text begin [148.595] TEMPORARY MILITARY PERMIT; FEE. new text end

new text begin The Board of Optometry shall establish a temporary permit in accordance with section 197.4552. The fee for the temporary military permit is $250. new text end

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 148.624, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Temporary military permit. new text end

new text begin The board shall issue a temporary permit to members of the military in accordance with section 197.4552. The fee for the temporary permit is $250. new text end

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, section 148B.17, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Licensure and application fees.

Nonrefundable licensure and application fees established by the board shall not exceed the following amounts:

(1) application fee for national examination is $110;

(2) application fee for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) state examination is $110;

(3) initial LMFT license fee is prorated, but cannot exceed $125;

(4) annual renewal fee for LMFT license is $125;

(5) late fee for LMFT license renewal is $50;

(6) application fee for LMFT licensure by reciprocity is $220;

(7) fee for initial Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) license is $75;

(8) annual renewal fee for LAMFT license is $75;

(9) late fee for LAMFT renewal is $25;

(10) fee for reinstatement of license is $150; deleted text begin anddeleted text end

(11) fee for emeritus status is $125new text begin ; andnew text end

new text begin (12) fee for temporary license for members of the military is $100new text end .

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 148B.53, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Fee.

Nonrefundable fees are as follows:

(1) initial license application fee for licensed professional counseling (LPC) - $150;

(2) initial license fee for LPC - $250;

(3) annual active license renewal fee for LPC - $250 or equivalent;

(4) annual inactive license renewal fee for LPC - $125;

(5) initial license application fee for licensed professional clinical counseling (LPCC) - $150;

(6) initial license fee for LPCC - $250;

(7) annual active license renewal fee for LPCC - $250 or equivalent;

(8) annual inactive license renewal fee for LPCC - $125;

(9) license renewal late fee - $100 per month or portion thereof;

(10) copy of board order or stipulation - $10;

(11) certificate of good standing or license verification - $25;

(12) duplicate certificate fee - $25;

(13) professional firm renewal fee - $25;

(14) sponsor application for approval of a continuing education course - $60;

(15) initial registration fee - $50;

(16) annual registration renewal fee - $25; deleted text begin anddeleted text end

(17) approved supervisor application processing fee - $30new text begin ; andnew text end

new text begin (18) temporary license for members of the military - $250new text end .

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 150A.091, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 9c. new text end

new text begin Temporary permit. new text end

new text begin Applications for a temporary military permit in accordance with section 197.4552 shall submit a fee not to exceed the amount of $250. new text end

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 153.16, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Temporary military permit. new text end

new text begin The board shall establish a temporary permit in accordance with section 197.4552. The fee for the temporary military permit is $250. new text end

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 154.11, as amended by Laws 2013, chapter 85, article 5, section 12, is amended to read:

154.11 EXAMINATION OF NONRESIDENT BARBERS AND INSTRUCTORS OF BARBERING; TEMPORARY APPRENTICE PERMITSnew text begin ; TEMPORARY MILITARY LICENSE AND APPRENTICE PERMITSnew text end .

Subdivision 1.

Examination of nonresidents.

A person who meets all of the requirements for barber registration in sections 154.001, 154.002, 154.003, 154.01 to 154.161, 154.19 to 154.21, and 154.24 to 154.26 and either has a license, certificate of registration, or an equivalent as a practicing barber or instructor of barbering from another state or country which in the discretion of the board has substantially the same requirements for registering barbers and instructors of barbering as required by sections 154.001, 154.002, 154.003, 154.01 to 154.161, 154.19 to 154.21, and 154.24 to 154.26 or can prove by sworn affidavits practice as a barber or instructor of barbering in another state or country for at least five years immediately prior to making application in this state, shall, upon payment of the required fee, be issued a certificate of registration without examination.

Subd. 2.

Temporary apprentice permits for nonresidents.

Any person who qualifies for examination as a registered barber under this section may apply for a temporary apprentice permit which is effective no longer than six months. All persons holding a temporary apprentice permit are subject to all provisions of sections 154.001, 154.002, 154.003, 154.01 to 154.161, 154.19 to 154.21, and 154.24 to 154.26 and the rules adopted by the board under those sections concerning the conduct and obligations of registered apprentices.

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Temporary military license. new text end

new text begin The board shall establish a temporary license for barbers and master barbers and a temporary permit for apprentices in accordance with section 197.4552. The fee for a temporary license under this subdivision for a master barber is $85. The fee for a temporary license under this subdivision for a barber is $180. The fee for a temporary permit under this subdivision for an apprentice is $80. new text end

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 155A.27, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 5a. new text end

new text begin Temporary military license. new text end

new text begin The board shall establish temporary licenses for a cosmetologist, nail technician, and esthetician, in accordance with section 197.4552. The fee for a temporary license under this subdivision for a cosmetologist, nail technician, or esthetician is $100. new text end

Sec. 18.

new text begin [197.4552] EXPEDITED AND TEMPORARY LICENSING FOR FORMER AND CURRENT MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Expedited licensing processing. new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, each professional licensing board defined in section 214.01, subdivisions 2 and 3, shall establish a procedure to expedite the issuance of a license or certification to perform professional services regulated by each board to a qualified individual who is: new text end

new text begin (1) an active duty military member; new text end

new text begin (2) the spouse of an active duty military member; or new text end

new text begin (3) a veteran who has left service in the two years preceding the date of license or certification application, and has confirmation of an honorable or general discharge status. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Temporary licenses. new text end

new text begin (a) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, each professional licensing board defined in section 214.01, subdivisions 2 and 3, shall establish a procedure to issue a temporary license or certification to perform professional services regulated by each board to a qualified individual who is: new text end

new text begin (1) an active duty military member; new text end

new text begin (2) the spouse of an active duty military member; or new text end

new text begin (3) a veteran who has left service in the two years preceding the date of license or certification application, and has confirmation of an honorable or general discharge status. new text end

new text begin (b) A qualified individual under paragraph (a) must provide evidence of: new text end

new text begin (1) a current, valid license, certificate, or permit in another state without history of disciplinary action by a regulatory authority in the other state; and new text end

new text begin (2) a current criminal background study without a criminal conviction that is determined by the board to adversely affect the applicants' ability to become licensed. new text end

new text begin (c) A temporary license or certificate issued under this subdivision shall allow a qualified individual to perform regulated professional services for a limited length of time as determined by the licensing board. During the temporary license period, the individual shall complete the full application procedure as required by applicable law. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Rulemaking. new text end

new text begin Each licensing board may adopt rules to carry out the provisions of this section. new text end

Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326.04, as amended by Laws 2014, chapter 236, section 3, is amended to read:

326.04 BOARD ESTABLISHED.

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Board composition. new text end

To carry out the provisions of sections 326.02 to 326.15 there is hereby created a Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design consisting of 21 members, who shall be appointed by the governor. Three members shall be licensed architects, five members shall be licensed engineers, two members shall be licensed landscape architects, two members shall be licensed land surveyors, two members shall be certified interior designers, two members shall be licensed geoscientists, and five members shall be public members. Not more than one member of the board shall be from the same branch of the profession of engineering. Membership terms, compensation of members, removal of members, the filling of membership vacancies, and fiscal year and reporting requirements shall be as provided in sections 214.07 to 214.09. Members shall be limited to two terms. The provision of staff, administrative services and office space; the review and processing of complaints; the setting of board fees; and other provisions relating to board operations shall be as provided in chapter 214.

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Temporary military certificate. new text end

new text begin The board shall establish a temporary military certificate in accordance with section 197.4552. new text end

Sec. 20.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326.10, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Temporary military license. new text end

new text begin The board shall establish a temporary license in accordance with section 197.4552 for the practice of architecture, professional engineering, geosciences, land surveying, landscape architecture, and interior design. The fee for the temporary license under this subdivision for the practice of architecture, professional engineering, geosciences, land surveying, landscape architecture, or interior design is $132. new text end

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326.3382, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Temporary military license. new text end

new text begin The board shall establish a temporary license to engage in the business of private detective or protective agent in accordance with section 197.4552. The fee for the temporary license under this subdivision for a private detective is $1,000. The fee for a temporary license under this subdivision for a protective agent is $800. new text end

Sec. 22.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 326A.04, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 1a. new text end

new text begin Temporary military certificate. new text end

new text begin The board shall establish a temporary military certificate in accordance with section 197.4552. new text end

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, section 326A.04, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Fee.

(a) The board shall charge a fee for each application for initial issuance or renewal of a certificate new text begin or temporary military certificate new text end under this section as provided in paragraph (b).new text begin The fee for the temporary military certificate is $100.new text end

(b) The board shall charge the following fees:

(1) initial issuance of certificate, $150;

(2) renewal of certificate with an active status, $100 per year;

(3) initial CPA firm permits, except for sole practitioners, $100;

(4) renewal of CPA firm permits, except for sole practitioners and those firms specified in clause (17), $35 per year;

(5) initial issuance and renewal of CPA firm permits for sole practitioners, except for those firms specified in clause (17), $35 per year;

(6) annual late processing delinquency fee for permit, certificate, or registration renewal applications not received prior to expiration date, $50;

(7) copies of records, per page, 25 cents;

(8) registration of noncertificate holders, nonlicensees, and nonregistrants in connection with renewal of firm permits, $45 per year;

(9) applications for reinstatement, $20;

(10) initial registration of a registered accounting practitioner, $50;

(11) initial registered accounting practitioner firm permits, $100;

(12) renewal of registered accounting practitioner firm permits, except for sole practitioners, $100 per year;

(13) renewal of registered accounting practitioner firm permits for sole practitioners, $35 per year;

(14) CPA examination application, $40;

(15) CPA examination, fee determined by third-party examination administrator;

(16) renewal of certificates with an inactive status, $25 per year; and

(17) renewal of CPA firm permits for firms that have one or more offices located in another state, $68 per year.

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 363A.44, subdivision 1, as added by Laws 2014, chapter 239, article 2, section 6, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Scope.

(a) No department, agency of the state, the Metropolitan Council, or an agency subject to section 473.143, subdivision 1, shall execute a contract new text begin for goods or services new text end or new text begin an new text end agreementnew text begin for goods or services new text end in excess of $500,000 with a business that has 40 or more full-time employees in this state or a state where the business has its primary place of business on a single day during the prior 12 months, unless the business has an equal pay certificate or it has certified in writing that it is exempt. A certificate is valid for four years.

(b) This section does not apply to a business with respect to a specific contract if the commissioner of administration determines that application of this section would cause undue hardship to the contracting entity. This section does not apply to a contract to provide goods and services to individuals under chapters 43A, 62A, 62C, 62D, 62E, 256B, 256I, 256L, and 268A, with a business that has a license, certification, registration, provider agreement, or provider enrollment contract that is prerequisite to providing those goods and services. This section does not apply to contracts entered into by the State Board of Investment for investment options under section 352.965, subdivision 4.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

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

Sec. 25.

new text begin LEGISLATIVE WATER COMMISSION INITIAL APPOINTMENTS AND FIRST MEETING. new text end

new text begin Initial appointments to the Legislative Water Commission established in section 3 must be made by September 1, 2014. The first meeting of the Legislative Water Commission shall be convened by the chair or a designee of the Legislative Coordinating Commission by October 15, 2014. The Legislative Water Commission shall select a chair from its membership at its first meeting. new text end

Sec. 26.

new text begin STUDY OF SPECIAL REVENUE ACCOUNT FOR CENTRAL ACCOMMODATION. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of management and budget, in consultation with the Commission of Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard-of-Hearing Minnesotans, must report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the senate Finance Committee, the house of representatives Ways and Means Committee, the house of representatives State Government Finance Committee, the senate State Departments and Veterans Budget Division, and the governor by January 5, 2015, on advantages and disadvantages of creating an account for the special revenue fund in the state treasury to pay for costs of providing accommodations to executive branch state employees with disabilities. The report must include: new text end

new text begin (1) a summary of money spent by executive branch state agencies in fiscal years 2012 and 2013 for providing accommodations to executive branch state employees, to the extent that such expenditures can be determined; and new text end

new text begin (2) recommendations for laws and policies needed to implement an account in the special revenue fund, if one is recommended under this section; or other recommendations related to best practices in provision of accommodations for employees with disabilities in the executive branch. new text end

ARTICLE 5

PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS APPROPRIATIONS

Section 1.

new text begin SUMMARY OF 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 -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 35,057,000 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 35,057,000 new text end
new text begin State Government Special Revenue new text end new text begin 12,361,000 new text end new text begin 6,865,000 new text end new text begin 19,226,000 new text end
new text begin Total new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 12,361,000 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 41,922,000 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 54,283,000 new text end

Sec. 2.

new text begin APPROPRIATIONS.new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are added to the appropriations in Laws 2013, chapter 86, article 1, 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 addition to the appropriation listed under them is available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, or June 30, 2015, respectively. Supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, are effective the day following final enactment. 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 PUBLIC SAFETY 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 12,361,000 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 8,638,000 new text end
new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 1,773,000 new text end
new text begin State Government Special Revenue new text end new text begin 12,361,000 new text end new text begin 6,865,000 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 Emergency Communication Networks new text end

new text begin 5,059,000 new text end new text begin 6,865,000 new text end

new text begin This onetime appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund for 911 emergency telecommunications services. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Office of Justice Programs new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 1,300,000 new text end

new text begin (a) $500,000 in fiscal year 2015 is for youth intervention programs under Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.73. The appropriation must be used to create new programs statewide in underserved areas and to help existing programs serve unmet needs in program communities. Of this amount, $100,000 in fiscal year 2015 is for a youth intervention program targeted toward East African youth. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until expended. new text end

new text begin (b) $500,000 in fiscal year 2015 is for a grant to provide emergency shelter programming for victims of domestic abuse and trafficking. The program shall provide shelter to East African women and children. The appropriation must be used for the operating expenses of a shelter. This is a onetime appropriation, and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

new text begin (c) $300,000 in fiscal year 2015 is for grants to sexual assault advocacy programs for sexual violence community prevention networks. For purposes of this section, "sexual assault" means a violation of Minnesota Statutes, sections 609.342 to 609.3453. $300,000 in each of fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is added to the base. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Fire Safety Account new text end

new text begin 1,300,000 new text end new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin $1,300,000 in fiscal year 2014 is from the fire safety account in the special revenue fund for activities and programs under Minnesota Statutes, section 299F.012. This is a onetime appropriation. By January 15, 2015, the commissioner shall report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over the fire safety account regarding the balances and uses of the account. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Criminal Apprehension new text end

new text begin $473,000 in fiscal year 2015 is to implement the expungement law changes in Laws 2014, chapter 246. The base for this activity shall be $583,000 in each of fiscal years 2016 and 2017. new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin CORRECTIONS 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 -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 30,139,000 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 Correctional Institutions new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 27,289,000 new text end

new text begin This includes a onetime appropriation of $11,089,000. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Community Services new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 1,950,000 new text end

new text begin $50,000 in fiscal year 2015 is a onetime appropriation to implement the victim notification provisions in article 6, sections 1, 2, and 5. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Operations Support new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 900,000 new text end

Sec. 5.

new text begin PEACE OFFICER STANDARDS AND TRAINING (POST) BOARD new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 50,000 new text end

new text begin $50,000 in fiscal year 2015 is for training state and local community safety personnel in the use of crisis de-escalation techniques for use with Minnesota veterans following their return from active military service in a combat zone. The director may consult with any other state or local governmental official or nongovernmental authority that the director determines to be relevant, to include postsecondary institutions, when selecting a service provider for this training. The training provider must have a demonstrated understanding of the transitions and challenges that veterans may experience during their re-entry into society following combat service. The training opportunities provided must be reasonably distributed statewide. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

Sec. 6.

new text begin HUMAN RIGHTS new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin 0 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 50,000 new text end

new text begin For outreach to the community regarding the role and duties of the Council on Black Minnesotans, the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans, the Chicano Latino Affairs Council, and the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

Sec. 7.

new text begin HUMAN SERVICES new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin 0 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 45,000 new text end

new text begin $45,000 in fiscal year 2015 is to implement the expungement law changes in Laws 2014, chapter 246. The base for this activity shall be $90,000 in each of fiscal years 2016 and 2017. new text end

Sec. 8.

Laws 2009, chapter 83, article 1, section 10, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Emergency Communication Networks

66,470,000 70,233,000

This appropriation is from the state government special revenue fund for 911 emergency telecommunications services.

(a) Public Safety Answering Points. $13,664,000 each year is to be distributed as provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 403.113, subdivision 2.

(b) Medical Resource Communication Centers. $683,000 each year is for grants to the Minnesota Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board for the Metro East and Metro West Medical Resource Communication Centers that were in operation before January 1, 2000.

(c) ARMER Debt Service. $17,557,000 the first year and $23,261,000 the second year are to the commissioner of finance to pay debt service on revenue bonds issued under Minnesota Statutes, section 403.275.

Any portion of this appropriation not needed to pay debt service in a fiscal year may be used by the commissioner of public safety to pay cash for any of the capital improvements for which bond proceeds were appropriated by Laws 2005, chapter 136, article 1, section 9, subdivision 8, or Laws 2007, chapter 54, article 1, section 10, subdivision 8.

(d) Metropolitan Council Debt Service. $1,410,000 each year is to the commissioner of finance for payment to the Metropolitan Council for debt service on bonds issued under Minnesota Statutes, section 403.27.

(e) ARMER State Backbone Operating Costs. $5,060,000 each year is to the commissioner of transportation for costs of maintaining and operating the statewide radio system backbone.

(f) ARMER Improvements. $1,000,000 each year is for the Statewide Radio Board for costs of design, construction, maintenance of, and improvements to those elements of the statewide public safety radio and communication system that support mutual aid communications and emergency medical services or provide enhancement of public safety communication interoperability.

(g) Next Generation 911. $3,431,000 the first year and $6,490,000 the second year are to replace the current system with the Next Generation Internet Protocol (IP) based network. new text begin This appropriation is available until expended. new text end The base level of funding for fiscal year 2012 shall be $2,965,000.

(h) Grants to Local Government. $5,000,000 the first year is for grants to local units of government to assist with the transition to the ARMER system. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2012.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective retroactively from June 29, 2011. new text end

Sec. 9.

Laws 2013, chapter 86, article 1, section 12, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Total Appropriation

$ 157,851,000 $ deleted text begin 161,191,000 deleted text end new text begin 161,911,000 new text end
Appropriations by Fund
2014 2015
General 82,213,000 82,772,000
Special Revenue 14,062,000 13,062,000
State Government Special Revenue 59,241,000 63,742,000
Environmental 69,000 69,000
Trunk Highway 2,266,000 2,266,000

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

Sec. 10.

Laws 2013, chapter 86, article 1, section 12, subdivision 3, as amended by Laws 2013, chapter 140, section 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Criminal Apprehension

47,588,000 47,197,000
Appropriations by Fund
General 42,315,000 42,924,000
Special Revenue 3,000,000 2,000,000
State Government Special Revenue 7,000 7,000
Trunk Highway 2,266,000 2,266,000
(a) DWI Lab Analysis; Trunk Highway Fund

Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 161.20, subdivision 3, $1,941,000 each year is from the trunk highway fund for laboratory analysis related to driving-while-impaired cases.

(b) Criminal History System

$50,000 the first year and $580,000 the second year from the general fund and, notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.705, subdivision 4, $3,000,000 the first year and $2,000,000 the second year from the vehicle services account in the special revenue fund are to replace the state criminal history system. This appropriation is available until expended. Of this amount, $2,980,000 the first year and $2,580,000 the second year are for a onetime transfer to the Office of Enterprise Technology for start-up costs. Service level agreements must document all project-related transfers under this paragraph. Ongoing operating and support costs for this system shall be identified and incorporated into future service level agreements.

The commissioner is authorized to use funds appropriated under this paragraph for the purposes specified in paragraph (c).

The general fund base for this program is $4,930,000 in fiscal year 2016 and $417,000 in fiscal year 2017.

(c) Criminal Reporting System

$1,360,000 the first year and $1,360,000 the second year from the general fund are to replace the state's crime reporting systemnew text begin and include one full-time equivalent business analystnew text end . This appropriation is available until expended. Of these amounts, $1,360,000 the first year and deleted text begin $1,360,000deleted text end new text begin $1,290,000new text end the second year are for a onetime transfer to the Office of Enterprise Technology for start-up costs. Service level agreements must document all project-related transfers under this paragraph. Ongoing operating and support costs for this system shall be identified and incorporated into future service level agreements.

The commissioner is authorized to use funds appropriated under this paragraph for the purposes specified in paragraph (b).

The base funding for this program is $1,360,000 in fiscal year 2016 and $380,000 in fiscal year 2017.

(d) Forensic Laboratory

$125,000 the first year and $125,000 the second year from the general fund and, notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 161.20, subdivision 3, $125,000 the first year and $125,000 the second year from the trunk highway fund are to replace forensic laboratory equipment at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

$200,000 the first year and $200,000 the second year from the general fund and, notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 161.20, subdivision 3, $200,000 the first year and $200,000 the second year from the trunk highway fund are to improve forensic laboratory staffing at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

(e) Livescan Fingerprinting

$310,000 the first year and $389,000 the second year from the general fund are to maintain Livescan fingerprinting machines.

(f) Report

If the vehicle services special revenue account accrues an unallocated balance in excess of 50 percent of the previous fiscal year's expenditures, the commissioner of public safety shall submit a report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over transportation and public safety policy and finance. The report must contain specific policy and legislative recommendations for reducing the fund balance and avoiding future excessive fund balances. The report is due within three months of the fund balance exceeding the threshold established in this paragraph.

Sec. 11.

Laws 2013, chapter 86, article 1, section 13, is amended to read:

Sec. 13.

PEACE OFFICER STANDARDS AND TRAINING (POST) BOARD

$ 3,870,000 $ 3,870,000

(a) Excess Amounts Transferred

This appropriation is from the peace officer training account in the special revenue fund. Any new receipts credited to that account in the first year in excess of $3,870,000 must be transferred and credited to the general fund. Any new receipts credited to that account in the second year in excess of $3,870,000 must be transferred and credited to the general fund.

(b) Peace Officer Training Reimbursements

$2,734,000 each year is for reimbursements to local governments for peace officer training costs.

(c) Training; Sexually Exploited and Trafficked Youth

Of the appropriation in paragraph (b), $100,000 the first year is for reimbursements to local governments for peace officer training costs on sexually exploited and trafficked youth, including effectively identifying sex trafficked victims and traffickers, investigation techniques, and assisting sexually exploited youth.new text begin These funds are available until June 30, 2016.new text end

Reimbursement shall be provided on a flat fee basis of $100 per diem per officer.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 12.

new text begin TRANSFER; EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT. new text end

new text begin On July 1, 2014, the commissioner of management and budget shall transfer $3,000,000 from the general fund to the disaster assistance contingency account created in article 7, section 4. new text end

ARTICLE 6

PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 13.84, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Disclosure.

Private or confidential court services data shall not be disclosed except:

(a) pursuant to section 13.05;

(b) pursuant to a statute specifically authorizing disclosure of court services data;

(c) with the written permission of the source of confidential data;

(d) to the court services department, parole or probation authority or state or local correctional agency or facility having statutorily granted supervision over the individual subject of the data;

(e) pursuant to subdivision 6; deleted text begin ordeleted text end

(f) pursuant to a valid court orderdeleted text begin .deleted text end new text begin ; ornew text end

new text begin (g) pursuant to section 611A.06, subdivision 3a. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective January 1, 2015. new text end

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 13.84, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Public benefit data.

(a) The responsible authority or its designee of a parole or probation authority or correctional agency may release private or confidential court services data related to:

(1) criminal acts to any law enforcement agency, if necessary for law enforcement purposes; and

(2) criminal acts or delinquent acts to the victims of criminal or delinquent acts to the extent that the data are necessary for the victim to assert the victim's legal right to restitution.

(b) A parole or probation authority, a correctional agency, or agencies that provide correctional services under contract to a correctional agency may release to a law enforcement agency the following data on defendants, parolees, or probationers: current address, dates of entrance to and departure from agency programs, and dates and times of any absences, both authorized and unauthorized, from a correctional program.

(c) The responsible authority or its designee of a juvenile correctional agency may release private or confidential court services data to a victim of a delinquent act to the extent the data are necessary to enable the victim to assert the victim's right to request notice of release under section 611A.06. The data that may be released include only the name, home address, and placement site of a juvenile who has been placed in a juvenile correctional facility as a result of a delinquent act.

new text begin (d) Upon the victim's written or electronic request and, if the victim and offender have been household or family members as defined in section 518B.01, subdivision 2, paragraph (b), the commissioner of corrections or the commissioner's designee may disclose to the victim of an offender convicted of a qualified domestic violence-related offense as defined in section 609.02, subdivision 16, notification of the city and five-digit zip code of the offender's residency upon or after release from a Department of Corrections facility, unless: new text end

new text begin (1) the offender is not under correctional supervision at the time of the victim's request; new text end

new text begin (2) the commissioner or the commissioner's designee does not have the city or zip code; or new text end

new text begin (3) the commissioner or the commissioner's designee reasonably believes that disclosure of the city or zip code of the offender's residency creates a risk to the victim, offender, or public safety. new text end

new text begin (e) Paragraph (d) applies only where the offender is serving a prison term for a qualified domestic violence-related offense committed against the victim seeking notification. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective January 1, 2015. new text end

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 260B.198, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Continuance.

new text begin (a) new text end When it is in the best interests of the child to do sonew text begin and not inimical to public safetynew text end and when the child has admitted the allegations contained in the petition before the judge or referee, or when a hearing has been held as provided for in section 260B.163 and the allegations contained in the petition have been duly proven but, in either case, before a finding of delinquency has been entered, the court may continue the case for a period not to exceed deleted text begin 90deleted text end new text begin 180new text end days on any one order. deleted text begin Such a continuance may be extended for one additional successive period not to exceed 90 days and only after the court has reviewed the case and entered its order for an additional continuance without a finding of delinquency.deleted text end new text begin The continuance may be extended for one additional successive period not to exceed 180 days, but only with the consent of the prosecutor and only after the court has reviewed the case and entered its order for the additional continuance without a finding of delinquency. new text end During deleted text begin thisdeleted text end new text begin anew text end continuance the court may enter an order in accordance with the provisions of subdivision 1, deleted text begin clause (1) or (2)deleted text end new text begin except clause (4)new text end , or enter an order to hold the child in detention for a period not to exceed 15 days on any one order for the purpose of completing any consideration, or any investigation or examination ordered in accordance with the provisions of section 260B.157.

new text begin (b) A prosecutor may appeal a continuance ordered in contravention of this subdivision.new text end This subdivision new text begin does not extend the court's jurisdiction under section 260B.193 and new text end does not apply to an extended jurisdiction juvenile proceeding.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective August 1, 2014, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date. new text end

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 299F.012, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Fire Service Advisory Committee.

new text begin (a) new text end The Fire Service Advisory Committee shall provide recommendations to the commissioner of public safety on fire service-related issues and shall consist of representatives of each of the following organizations: two appointed by the president of the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association, two appointed by the president of the Minnesota State Fire Department Association, two appointed by the president of the Minnesota Professional Fire Fighters, two appointed by the president of the League of Minnesota Cities, one appointed by the president of the Minnesota Association of Townships, one appointed by the president of the Insurance Federation of Minnesota, one appointed jointly by the presidents of the Minnesota Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators and the Fire Marshals Association of Minnesota, and the commissioner of public safety or the commissioner's designee. The commissioner of public safety must ensure that at least three of the members of the advisory committee work and reside in counties outside of the seven-county metropolitan area. The committee shall provide funding recommendations to the commissioner of public safety from the fire safety fund for the following purposes:

(1) for the Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education;

(2) for programs and staffing for the State Fire Marshal Division; and

(3) for fire-related regional response team programs and any other fire service programs that have the potential for statewide impact.

new text begin (b) The committee under paragraph (a) does not expire. new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 611A.06, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 3a. new text end

new text begin Offender location. new text end

new text begin (a) Upon the victim's written or electronic request and if the victim and offender have been household or family members as defined in section 518B.01, subdivision 2, paragraph (b), the commissioner of corrections or the commissioner's designee shall disclose to the victim of an offender convicted of a qualified domestic violence-related offense as defined in section 609.02, subdivision 16, notification of the city and five-digit zip code of the offender's residency upon release from a Department of Corrections facility, unless: new text end

new text begin (1) the offender is not under correctional supervision at the time of the victim's request; new text end

new text begin (2) the commissioner or the commissioner's designee does not have the city or zip code; or new text end

new text begin (3) the commissioner or the commissioner's designee reasonably believes that disclosure of the city or zip code of the offender's residency creates a risk to the victim, offender, or public safety. new text end

new text begin (b) All identifying information regarding the victim including, but not limited to, the notification provided by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee is classified as private data on individuals as defined in section 13.02, subdivision 12, and is accessible only to the victim. new text end

new text begin (c) This subdivision applies only where the offender is serving a prison term for a qualified domestic violence-related offense committed against the victim seeking notification. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective January 15, 2015. new text end

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 645.241, is amended to read:

645.241 PUNISHMENT FOR PROHIBITED ACTS.

new text begin (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), new text end when the performance of any act is prohibited by a statute, and no penalty for the violation of the same shall be imposed in any statute, the doing of such act shall be a misdemeanor.

new text begin (b) When the performance of any act is prohibited by a statute enacted or amended after September 1, 2014, and no penalty for the violation of the same shall be imposed in any statute, the doing of such act shall be a petty misdemeanor. new text end

Sec. 7.

Laws 2014, chapter 240, section 26, is amended to read:

Sec. 26.

REPEALER.

Laws 2012, chapter 235, section 11, is repealed.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

ARTICLE 7

DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR PUBLIC ENTITIES; FEDERAL AID GRANTED

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 5d. new text end

new text begin Local government. new text end

new text begin "Local government" has the meaning given in Code of Federal Regulations, title 44, section 206.2 (2012). new text end

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 6b. new text end

new text begin Nonfederal share. new text end

new text begin "Nonfederal share" has the meaning given in section 12A.02, subdivision 7. new text end

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12.221, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Subgrant agreementsnew text begin ; state sharenew text end .

new text begin (a) new text end The state director, serving as the governor's authorized representative, may enter into subgrant agreements with eligible applicants to provide federal and state financial assistance made available as a result of a disaster declaration.

new text begin (b) When state funds are used to provide the FEMA Public Assistance Program cost-share requirement for a local government, the state director must award a local government 100 percent of the nonfederal share of the local government's FEMA Public Assistance Program costs. new text end

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12.221, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Disaster assistance contingency account; appropriation. new text end

new text begin (a) A disaster assistance contingency account is created in the special revenue fund in the state treasury. Money in the disaster assistance contingency account is appropriated to the commissioner of public safety to provide: new text end

new text begin (1) cost-share for federal assistance under section 12A.15, subdivision 1; and new text end

new text begin (2) state public disaster assistance to eligible applicants under chapter 12B. new text end

new text begin (b) For appropriations under paragraph (a), clause (1), the amount appropriated is 100 percent of any nonfederal share for state agencies and local governments. Money appropriated under paragraph (a), clause (1), may be used to pay all or a portion of the nonfederal share for publicly owned capital improvement projects. new text end

new text begin (c) For appropriations under paragraph (a), clause (2), the amount appropriated is the amount required to pay eligible claims under chapter 12B, as certified by the commissioner of public safety. new text end

new text begin (d) By January 15 of each year, the commissioner of management and budget shall submit a report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives Ways and Means Committee and the senate Finance Committee detailing state disaster assistance appropriations and expenditures under this subdivision during the previous calendar year. new text end

new text begin (e) The governor's budget proposal submitted to the legislature under section 16A.11 must include recommended appropriations to the disaster assistance contingency account. The governor's appropriation recommendations must be informed by the commissioner of public safety's estimate of the amount of money that will be necessary to: new text end

new text begin (1) provide 100 percent of the nonfederal share for state agencies and local governments that will receive federal financial assistance from FEMA during the next biennium; and new text end

new text begin (2) fully pay all eligible claims under chapter 12B. new text end

new text begin (f) Notwithstanding section 16A.28: new text end

new text begin (1) funds appropriated or transferred to the disaster assistance contingency account do not lapse but remain in the account until appropriated; and new text end

new text begin (2) funds appropriated from the disaster assistance contingency account do not lapse and are available until expended. new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12A.02, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Appropriation.

"Appropriation" means an appropriation provided in law specifically to implement this chapternew text begin , including but not limited to a statutory appropriation to provide the required cost-share for federal disaster assistance under section 12.221new text end .

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12A.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Local government. new text end

new text begin "Local government" has the meaning given in section 12.03, subdivision 5d. new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12A.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Nonfederal share. new text end

new text begin "Nonfederal share" means that portion of total FEMA Public Assistance Program costs that is no more than 25 percent and is not eligible for FEMA reimbursement. new text end

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12A.03, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Nonduplication of federal assistance.

State assistance may not duplicate or supplement eligible FEMA Public Assistance Program assistance. For eligible Public Assistance Program costs, any state deleted text begin matchingdeleted text end new text begin cost-sharenew text end money made available for that assistance must be disbursed by the Department of Public Safety to a state agency, local deleted text begin political subdivision, Indian tribedeleted text end new text begin governmentnew text end , or other applicant. State assistance distributed by a state agency, other than the Department of Public Safety, to a deleted text begin political subdivisiondeleted text end new text begin local governmentnew text end or other applicant for disaster costs that are eligible for FEMA Public Assistance Program assistance constitutes an advance of funds. Such advances must be repaid to the applicable state agency when the applicant has received the FEMA Public Assistance Program assistance, and whatever state deleted text begin matchingdeleted text end new text begin cost-sharenew text end money may be made available for that assistance, from the Department of Public Safety.

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 12A.15, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

State deleted text begin matchdeleted text end new text begin cost-sharenew text end for federal assistance.

State appropriations may be used deleted text begin for payment of the state match for federal disaster assistancedeleted text end to new text begin pay 100 percent of the nonfederal share for new text end state agenciesdeleted text begin . If authorized in law, state appropriations may be used to pay all or a portion of the local share of the match for federal funds for political subdivisionsdeleted text end new text begin and local governmentsnew text end under section 12.221. An appropriation from the bond proceeds fund may be used deleted text begin to fund federal match obligationsdeleted text end new text begin as cost-share for federal disaster assistancenew text end for publicly owned capital improvement projects deleted text begin resulting from the receipt of federal disaster assistancedeleted text end .

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 16A.28, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 9. new text end

new text begin Disaster assistance. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of management and budget must transfer the unexpended and unencumbered balance of a general fund disaster assistance appropriation that expires as provided under this section or as otherwise provided by law to the disaster assistance contingency account in section 12.221, subdivision 6. new text end

new text begin (b) Expired disaster assistance transferred to the disaster assistance contingency account is appropriated as provided under section 12.221, subdivision 6, regardless of the specific disaster event or purpose for which the expired disaster assistance was originally appropriated. new text end

new text begin (c) The commissioner must report each transfer to the chairs of the house of representatives Ways and Means Committee and the senate Finance Committee. new text end

new text begin (d) For the purposes of this subdivision, "disaster assistance appropriation" means an appropriation from the general fund to provide cost-share required for federal disaster assistance or to provide other state disaster assistance under chapter 12A or 12B. new text end

Sec. 11.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This article is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

ARTICLE 8

DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR PUBLIC ENTITIES; ABSENT FEDERAL AID

Section 1.

new text begin [12B.10] PUBLIC DISASTER ASSISTANCE; ABSENT FEDERAL AID. new text end

new text begin This chapter establishes a state public assistance program to provide cost-share assistance to local governments that sustain significant damage on a per capita basis but are not eligible for federal disaster assistance or corresponding state assistance under chapter 12A. new text end

Sec. 2.

new text begin [12B.15] DEFINITIONS. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Application. new text end

new text begin The definitions in this section apply to this chapter. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Applicant. new text end

new text begin "Applicant" means a local government that applies for state disaster assistance under this chapter. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Commissioner. new text end

new text begin "Commissioner" means the commissioner of public safety. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Director. new text end

new text begin "Director" means the director of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management in the Department of Public Safety. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Disaster. new text end

new text begin "Disaster" means any catastrophe, including but not limited to a tornado, storm, high water, wind-driven water, tidal wave, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, snowstorm, or drought or, regardless of cause, any fire, flood, or explosion. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin FEMA. new text end

new text begin "FEMA" means the Federal Emergency Management Agency. new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Incident period. new text end

new text begin "Incident period" means the time interval of a disaster as delineated by specific start and end dates. new text end

new text begin Subd. 8. new text end

new text begin Local government. new text end

new text begin "Local government" has the meaning given in section 12.03, subdivision 5d. new text end

Sec. 3.

new text begin [12B.25] ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA; CONSIDERATIONS. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Payment required; eligibility criteria. new text end

new text begin The director, serving as the governor's authorized representative, may enter into grant agreements with eligible applicants to provide state financial assistance made available as a result of a disaster that satisfies all of the following criteria: new text end

new text begin (1) the state or applicable local government declares a disaster or emergency during the incident period; new text end

new text begin (2) damages suffered and eligible costs incurred are the direct result of the disaster; new text end

new text begin (3) federal disaster assistance is not available to the applicant because the governor did not request a presidential declaration of major disaster, the president denied the governor's request, or the applicant is not eligible for federal disaster assistance because the state or county did not meet the per capita impact indicator under FEMA's Public Assistance Program; new text end

new text begin (4) the applicant incurred eligible damages that, on a per capita basis, equal or exceed 50 percent of the countywide per capita impact indicator under FEMA's Public Assistance Program; new text end

new text begin (5) the applicant assumes responsibility for 25 percent of the applicant's total eligible costs; and new text end

new text begin (6) the applicant satisfies all requirements in this chapter. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Considerations; other resources available. new text end

new text begin When evaluating applicant eligibility under subdivision 1, the director must consider: new text end

new text begin (1) the availability of other resources from federal, state, local, private, or other sources; and new text end

new text begin (2) the availability or existence of insurance. new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin [12B.30] ELIGIBLE COSTS. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Eligible costs. new text end

new text begin Costs eligible for payment under this chapter are those costs that would be eligible for federal financial assistance under FEMA's Public Assistance Program. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Ineligible costs. new text end

new text begin Ineligible costs are all costs not included in subdivision 1, including but not limited to: new text end

new text begin (1) ordinary operating expenses, including salaries and expenses of employees and public officials that are not directly related to the disaster response; new text end

new text begin (2) costs for which payment has been or will be received from any other funding source; new text end

new text begin (3) disaster-related costs that should, in the determination of the director, be covered and compensated by insurance; and new text end

new text begin (4) projects and claims totaling less than the minimum FEMA project threshold. new text end

Sec. 5.

new text begin [12B.35] APPLICANT'S SHARE. new text end

new text begin An applicant's share of eligible costs incurred must not be less than 25 percent. The substantiated value of donated materials, equipment, services, and labor may be used as all or part of the applicant's share of eligible costs, subject to the following: new text end

new text begin (1) all items and sources of donation must be indicated on the application and any supporting documentation submitted to the commissioner; new text end

new text begin (2) the rate for calculating the value of donated, nonprofessional labor is the prevailing federal minimum wage; new text end

new text begin (3) the value of donated equipment may not exceed the highway equipment rates approved by the commissioner of transportation; and new text end

new text begin (4) the value of donated materials and professional services must conform to market rates and be established by invoice. new text end

Sec. 6.

new text begin [12B.40] APPLICATION PROCESS. new text end

new text begin (a) The director must develop application materials and may update the materials as needed. Application materials must include instructions and requirements for assistance under this chapter. new text end

new text begin (b) An applicant has 30 days from the end of the incident period or the president's official denial of the governor's request for a declaration of a major disaster to provide the director with written notice of intent to apply. The director may deny an application due to a late notice of intent to apply. new text end

new text begin (c) Within 60 days after the end of the incident period or the president's official denial of the governor's request for a declaration of a major disaster, the applicant must submit a complete application to the director. A complete application includes the following: new text end

new text begin (1) the cause, location of damage, and incident period; new text end

new text begin (2) documentation of a local, tribal, county, or state disaster or emergency declaration in response to the disaster; new text end

new text begin (3) a description of damages, an initial damage assessment, and the amount of eligible costs incurred by the applicant; new text end

new text begin (4) a statement or evidence that the applicant has the ability to pay for at least 25 percent of total eligible costs incurred from the disaster; and new text end

new text begin (5) a statement or evidence that the local government has incurred damages equal to or exceeding 50 percent of the federal countywide threshold in effect during the incident period. new text end

new text begin (d) The director must review the application and supporting documentation for completeness and may return the application with a request for more detailed information. The director may consult with local public officials to ensure the application reflects the extent and magnitude of the damage and to reconcile any differences. The application is not complete until the director receives all requested information. new text end

new text begin (e) If the director returns an application with a request for more detailed information or for correction of deficiencies, the applicant must submit all required information within 30 days of the applicant's receipt of the director's request. The applicant's failure to provide the requested information in a timely manner without a reasonable explanation may be cause for denial of the application. new text end

new text begin (f) The director has no more than 60 days from the receipt of a complete application to approve or deny the application, or the application is deemed approved. If the director denies an application, the director must send a denial letter. If the director approves an application or the application is automatically deemed approved after 60 days, the director must notify the applicant of the steps necessary to obtain reimbursement of eligible costs, including submission of invoices or other documentation substantiating the costs submitted for reimbursement. new text end

Sec. 7.

new text begin [12B.45] CLAIMS PROCESS. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Claims; appeal. new text end

new text begin (a) An applicant must submit to the director completed claims for payment of actual and eligible costs on forms provided by the director. All eligible costs claimed for payment must be documented and consistent with the eligibility provisions of this chapter. new text end

new text begin (b) If the director denies an applicant's claim for payment, the applicant has 30 days from receipt of the director's determination to appeal in writing to the commissioner. The appeal must include the applicant's rationale for reversing the director's determination. The commissioner has 30 days from receipt of the appeal to uphold or modify the director's determination and formally respond to the applicant. If, within 30 days of receiving the commissioner's decision, the applicant notifies the commissioner that the applicant intends to contest the commissioner's decision, the Office of Administrative Hearings shall conduct a hearing under the contested case provisions of chapter 14. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Final inspection. new text end

new text begin Upon completion of all work by an applicant, the director may inspect all work claimed by the applicant. The applicant must provide the director with access to records pertaining to all claimed work and must permit the director to review all records relating to the work. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Closeout. new text end

new text begin The director must close out an applicant's disaster assistance application after all of the following occur: new text end

new text begin (1) eligible work is complete; new text end

new text begin (2) the applicant receives the final amount due or pays any amount owed under section 12B.50; and new text end

new text begin (3) any extant or scheduled audits are complete. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Audit. new text end

new text begin (a) An applicant must account for all funds received under this chapter in conformance with generally accepted accounting principles and practices. The applicant must maintain detailed records of expenditures to show that grants received under this chapter were used for the purpose for which the payment was made. The applicant must maintain records for five years and make the records available for inspection and audit by the director or the state auditor. The applicant must keep all financial records for five years after the final payment, including but not limited to all invoices and canceled checks or bank statements that support all eligible costs claimed by the applicant. new text end

new text begin (b) The director or state auditor may audit all applicant records pertaining to an application or payment under this chapter. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Reporting payments. new text end

new text begin The director must post on the division Web site a list of the recipients and amounts of the payments made under this chapter. new text end

Sec. 8.

new text begin [12B.50] FUNDING FROM OTHER SOURCES; REPAYMENT REQUIRED. new text end

new text begin If an applicant subsequently recovers eligible costs from another source after receiving payment under this chapter, the applicant must pay the commissioner an amount equal to the corresponding state funds received within 30 days. The commissioner must deposit any repayment in the disaster response contingency account in section 12.221, subdivision 6. new text end

Sec. 9.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This article is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

ARTICLE 9

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Section 1.

Laws 2010, chapter 189, section 15, subdivision 12, is amended to read:

Subd. 12.

Rochester Maintenance Facility

deleted text begin 26,430,000 deleted text end
new text begin 24,937,000 new text end

This appropriation is from the bond proceeds account in the trunk highway fund.

To prepare a site for and design, construct, furnish, and equip a new maintenance facility in Rochester.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 2.

Laws 2010, chapter 189, section 26, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Trunk highway fund bond proceeds account.

To provide the money appropriated in this act from the bond proceeds account in the trunk highway fund, the commissioner of management and budget shall sell and issue bonds of the state in an amount up to deleted text begin $32,945,000deleted text end new text begin $31,452,000 new text end in the manner, upon the terms, and with the effect prescribed by Minnesota Statutes, sections 167.50 to 167.52, and by the Minnesota Constitution, article XIV, section 11, at the times and in the amounts requested by the commissioner of transportation. The proceeds of the bonds, except accrued interest and any premium received from the sale of the bonds, must be credited to the bond proceeds account in the trunk highway fund.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 3.

Laws 2012, chapter 287, article 2, section 1, is amended to read:

Section 1.

ROCHESTER MAINTENANCE FACILITY.

deleted text begin $16,100,000deleted text end new text begin $17,593,000new text end is appropriated to the commissioner of transportation to design, construct, furnish, and equip the maintenance facility in Rochester and corresponding remodeling of the existing district headquarters building. This appropriation is from the bond proceeds account in the trunk highway fund.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 4.

Laws 2012, chapter 287, article 2, section 3, is amended to read:

Sec. 3.

TRUNK HIGHWAY FUND BOND PROCEEDS ACCOUNT.

To provide the money appropriated in this article from the bond proceeds account in the trunk highway fund, the commissioner of management and budget shall sell and issue bonds of the state in an amount up to deleted text begin $16,120,000deleted text end new text begin $17,613,000new text end in the manner, upon the terms, and with the effect prescribed by Minnesota Statutes, sections 167.50 to 167.52, and by the Minnesota Constitution, article XIV, section 11, at the times and in the amounts requested by the commissioner of transportation. The proceeds of the bonds, except accrued interest and any premium received from the sale of the bonds, must be credited to the bond proceeds account in the trunk highway fund.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 5.

Laws 2012, First Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 28, is amended to read:

Sec. 28.

TRANSFERS, REDUCTIONS, CANCELLATIONS, AND BOND SALE AUTHORIZATIONS REDUCED.

(a) The remaining balance of the appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 7, for the economic development and housing challenge program, estimated to be $450,000, is transferred to the general fund.

(b) The appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 5, for Minnesota investment fund grants pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.07, is reduced by $1,358,000.

(c) The appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 12, subdivision 2, for disaster enrollment impact aid pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.06, is reduced by $30,000.

(d) The appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 12, subdivision 3, for disaster relief facilities grants pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.06, is reduced by $392,000.

(e) The appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 12, subdivision 4, for disaster relief operating grants pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.06, is reduced by $2,000.

(f) The appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 12, subdivision 5, for pupil transportation aid pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.06, is reduced by $5,000.

(g) The appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 2, section 5, subdivision 3, for pupil transportation aid pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.06, is reduced by $271,000.

(h) The appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 13, for public health activities pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.08, is reduced by $103,000.

(i) deleted text begin $1,428,000deleted text end new text begin $534,000new text end of the appropriation in Laws 2007, First Special Session chapter 2, article 1, section 4, subdivision 3, for reconstruction and repair of trunk highways and trunk highway bridges is canceled. The bond sale authorization in Laws 2007, First Special Session chapter 2, article 1, section 15, subdivision 2, is reduced by deleted text begin $1,428,000deleted text end new text begin $534,000new text end .

(j) $5,680,000 of the appropriation in Laws 2007, First Special Session chapter 2, article 1, section 4, subdivision 4, as amended by Laws 2008, chapter 289, section 2, for grants to local governments for capital costs related to rehabilitation and replacement of local roads and bridges damaged or destroyed by flooding pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 174.50, is canceled. The bond sale authorization in Laws 2007, First Special Session chapter 2, article 1, section 15, subdivision 3, is reduced by $5,680,000.

(k) $2,133,000 of the appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 4, subdivision 3, for local road and bridge rehabilitation and replacement pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.16, subdivision 3, is canceled. The bond sale authorization in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 17, subdivision 2, is reduced by $2,133,000.

(l) The appropriation in Laws 2010, Second Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 4, subdivision 2, for state road infrastructure operations and maintenance pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 12A.16, subdivision 1, is reduced by $819,000.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 6.

Laws 2013, chapter 117, article 1, section 3, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Multimodal Systems

(a) Aeronautics

(1) Airport Development and Assistance deleted text begin 13,648,000 deleted text end
new text begin 14,648,000 new text end
deleted text begin 13,648,000 deleted text end
new text begin 16,648,000 new text end

This appropriation is from the state airports fund and must be spent according to Minnesota Statutes, section 360.305, subdivision 4.

The base appropriation for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is $14,298,000 for each year.

Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.28, subdivision 6, this appropriation is available for five years after appropriation. If the appropriation for either year is insufficient, the appropriation for the other year is available for it.

new text begin For the current biennium, the commissioner of transportation may establish different local contribution rates for airport projects than those established in Minnesota Statutes, section 360.305, subdivision 4. new text end

(2) Aviation Support and Services 6,386,000 6,386,000
Appropriations by Fund
Airports 5,286,000 5,286,000
Trunk Highway 1,100,000 1,100,000

$65,000 in each year is from the state airports fund for the Civil Air Patrol.

(b) Transit 17,226,000 deleted text begin 17,245,000 deleted text end
new text begin 23,777,000 new text end
Appropriations by Fund
General 16,451,000 deleted text begin 16,470,000 deleted text end
new text begin 23,002,000 new text end
Trunk Highway 775,000 775,000

$100,000 in each year is from the general fund for the administrative expenses of the Minnesota Council on Transportation Access under Minnesota Statutes, section 174.285.

$78,000 in each year is from the general fund for grants to greater Minnesota transit providers as reimbursement for the costs of providing fixed route public transit rides free of charge under Minnesota Statutes, section 174.24, subdivision 7, for veterans certified as disabled.

new text begin $32,000 in the second year is from the general fund for allocation to public transit systems under Minnesota Statutes, section 174.24, in amounts that reflect the respective foregone fare revenues from transit service under article 11, section 39. new text end

new text begin The base appropriation from the general fund for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is $17,245,000 in each year. new text end

(c) Passenger Rail 500,000 500,000

This appropriation is from the general fund for passenger rail system planning, alternatives analysis, environmental analysis, design, and preliminary engineering under Minnesota Statutes, sections 174.632 to 174.636.

(d) Freight 5,653,000 deleted text begin 5,153,000 deleted text end
new text begin 7,153,000 new text end
Appropriations by Fund
General 756,000 deleted text begin 256,000 deleted text end
new text begin 2,256,000 new text end
Trunk Highway 4,897,000 4,897,000

$500,000 in the first year is from the general fund to pay for the department's share of costs associated with the cleanup of contaminated state rail bank property. This appropriation is available until expended.

new text begin $2,000,000 in the second year is from the general fund for development and implementation of safety improvements at highway-rail grade crossings along rail corridors in which oil or other hazardous materials are transported. The commissioner shall identify highway-rail grade crossing locations and improvements in consultation with railroads and relevant road authorities. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until expended. new text end

(e) Safe Routes to School 250,000 deleted text begin 250,000 deleted text end
new text begin 500,000 new text end

This appropriation is from the general fund for non-infrastructure activities in the safe routes to school program under Minnesota Statutes, section 174.40, subdivision 7a.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 7.

Laws 2013, chapter 117, article 1, section 3, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

State Roads

(a) Operations and Maintenance deleted text begin 262,395,000 deleted text end
new text begin 297,395,000 new text end
deleted text begin 262,395,000 deleted text end
new text begin 280,395,000 new text end

new text begin $5,000,000 in each year is for accelerated replacement of snow plowing equipment. new text end

new text begin $10,000,000 in the first year is for expenses related to pavement repairs necessitated by the effects of the 2013-2014 winter season. new text end

new text begin The base appropriation for operations and maintenance for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is $267,395,000 in each year. new text end

(b) Program Planning and Delivery 206,795,000 deleted text begin 206,720,000 deleted text end
new text begin 209,840,000 new text end
Appropriations by Fund
2014 2015
H.U.T.D. 75,000 0
Trunk Highway 206,720,000 deleted text begin 206,720,000 deleted text end
new text begin 209,840,000 new text end

new text begin The base appropriation for program planning and delivery for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is $206,720,000 in each year. new text end

$250,000 in each year is for the department's administrative costs for creation and operation of the Joint Program Office for Economic Development and Alternative Finance, including costs of hiring a consultant and preparing required reports.

$130,000 in each year is available for administrative costs of the targeted group business program.

$266,000 in each year is available for grants to metropolitan planning organizations outside the seven-county metropolitan area.

$75,000 in each year is available for a transportation research contingent account to finance research projects that are reimbursable from the federal government or from other sources. If the appropriation for either year is insufficient, the appropriation for the other year is available for it.

$900,000 in each year is available for grants for transportation studies outside the metropolitan area to identify critical concerns, problems, and issues. These grants are available: (1) to regional development commissions; (2) in regions where no regional development commission is functioning, to joint powers boards established under agreement of two or more political subdivisions in the region to exercise the planning functions of a regional development commission; and (3) in regions where no regional development commission or joint powers board is functioning, to the department's district office for that region.

$75,000 in the first year is from the highway user tax distribution fund to the commissioner for a grant to the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota for WorkPlace Telework program congestion relief efforts consisting of maintenance of Web site tools and content. This is a onetime appropriation and is available in the second year.

new text begin $120,000 in the second year is from the trunk highway fund for the purpose of education and outreach related to highway work zone safety initiatives. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

(c) State Road Construction Activity
(1) Economic Recovery Funds - Federal Highway Aid 1,000,000 1,000,000

This appropriation is to complete projects using funds made available to the commissioner of transportation under title XII of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Public Law 111-5, and implemented under Minnesota Statutes, section 161.36, subdivision 7. The base appropriation is $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2016 and $0 in fiscal year 2017.

(2) State Road Construction deleted text begin 909,400,000 deleted text end
new text begin 929,900,000 new text end
deleted text begin 815,600,000 deleted text end
new text begin 862,105,000 new text end

It is estimated that these appropriations will be funded as follows:

Appropriations by Fund
Federal Highway Aid 489,200,000 482,200,000
Highway User Taxes deleted text begin 420,200,000 deleted text end
new text begin 440,700,000 new text end
deleted text begin 333,400,000 deleted text end
new text begin 379,905,000 new text end

The commissioner of transportation shall notify the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over transportation finance of any significant events that should cause these estimates to change.

This appropriation is for the actual construction, reconstruction, and improvement of trunk highways, including design-build contracts and consultant usage to support these activities. This includes the cost of actual payment to landowners for lands acquired for highway rights-of-way, payment to lessees, interest subsidies, and relocation expenses.

The base appropriation for state road construction for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is deleted text begin $645,000,000deleted text end new text begin $645,505,000new text end in each year.

$10,000,000 in each year is for the transportation economic development program under Minnesota Statutes, section 174.12.new text begin This appropriation is available until expended.new text end

The commissioner may expend up to one-half of one percent of the federal appropriations under this clause as grants to opportunity industrialization centers and other nonprofit job training centers for job training programs related to highway construction.

The commissioner may transfer up to $15,000,000 each year to the transportation revolving loan fund.

The commissioner may receive money covering other shares of the cost of partnership projects. These receipts are appropriated to the commissioner for these projects.

new text begin Notwithstanding subdivision 6 and the restrictions on the use of trunk highway funds in Minnesota Statutes, section 165.15, the commissioner may transfer up to $6,000,000 from the trunk highway fund under this appropriation to the Stillwater lift bridge endowment account under Minnesota Statutes, section 165.15. new text end

new text begin $6,500,000 in the first year and $25,000,000 in the second year are for the corridors of commerce program under Minnesota Statutes, section 161.088, and may include right-of-way acquisition for projects included in the program. The amount appropriated in the first year is for projects located outside of a metropolitan county, as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 473.121, subdivision 4. The commissioner may identify projects based on the most recent selection process or may perform a new selection. These are onetime appropriations and are available until expended. new text end

new text begin $14,000,000 in the first year and $21,000,000 in the second year are for the specific improvements to "Old Highway 14" described in the settlement agreement and release executed January 7, 2014, between the state and Steele and Waseca Counties. These are onetime appropriations and are available until expended. new text end

new text begin $505,000 in the second year is for costs of implementing highway work zone safety initiatives. The base appropriation for this purpose is $505,000 in each of fiscal years 2016 and 2017. new text end

(d) Highway Debt Service 158,417,000 189,821,000

$148,917,000 in the first year and $180,321,000 in the second year are for transfer to the state bond fund. If an appropriation is insufficient to make all transfers required in the year for which it is made, the commissioner of management and budget shall notify the senate Committee on Finance and the house of representatives Committee on Ways and Means of the amount of the deficiency and shall then transfer that amount under the statutory open appropriation. Any excess appropriation cancels to the trunk highway fund.

(e) Electronic Communications 5,171,000 5,171,000
Appropriations by Fund
General 3,000 3,000
Trunk Highway 5,168,000 5,168,000

The general fund appropriation is to equip and operate the Roosevelt signal tower for Lake of the Woods weather broadcasting.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 8.

Laws 2013, chapter 117, article 1, section 3, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Transfers

(a) With the approval of the commissioner of management and budget, the commissioner of transportation may transfer unencumbered balances among the appropriations from the trunk highway fund and the state airports fund made in this section. No transfer may be made from the appropriations for state road construction or for debt service. Transfers under this paragraph may not be made between funds. Transfers under this paragraph must be reported immediately to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over transportation finance.

(b) The commissioner shall transfer from the flexible highway account in the county state-aid highway fund: (1) $5,700,000 in the first year new text begin and $21,000,000 in the second year new text end to the trunk highway fund; (2) $13,000,000 in the first year to the municipal turnback account in the municipal state-aid street fund; (3) $10,000,000 in the second year to the municipal turnback account in the municipal state-aid street fund; and (4) the remainder in each year to the county turnback account in the county state-aid highway fund. The funds transferred are for highway turnback purposes as provided under Minnesota Statutes, section 161.081, subdivision 3.

Sec. 9.

Laws 2013, chapter 117, article 1, section 4, is amended to read:

Sec. 4.

METROPOLITAN COUNCIL

$ 107,889,000 $ deleted text begin 76,970,000 deleted text end
new text begin 79,804,000 new text end

This appropriation is from the general fund for transit system operations under Minnesota Statutes, sections 473.371 to 473.449.

The base appropriation for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is deleted text begin $76,686,000deleted text end new text begin $76,626,000new text end in each year.

$37,000,000 in the first year is for the Southwest Corridor light rail transit line from the Hiawatha light rail transit line in downtown Minneapolis to Eden Prairie, to be used for environmental studies, preliminary engineering, acquisition of real property, or interests in real property, and design. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until expended.

new text begin $500,000 in the second year is for transit shelter improvements under Minnesota Statutes, section 473.41. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $144,000 in the second year is for foregone fare revenues from transit service under article 11, section 39. The Metropolitan Council shall allocate a portion of the funds under this appropriation to transit providers receiving financial assistance under Minnesota Statutes, section 473.388, based on respective foregone fare revenues. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $250,000 in the second year is for allocation to replacement service providers operating under Minnesota Statutes, section 473.388. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $1,000,000 in the second year is for arterial bus rapid transit development, which may include, but is not limited to, design, engineering, construction, capital costs, technology, equipment, and rolling stock. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until expended. new text end

new text begin $1,000,000 in the second year is for design and construction of a bus rapid transit station on interstate 35W and Lake Street. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until expended. new text end

Sec. 10.

Laws 2013, chapter 117, article 1, section 5, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Administration and Related Services

(a) Office of Communications 504,000 504,000
Appropriations by Fund
General 111,000 111,000
Trunk Highway 393,000 393,000
(b) Public Safety Support 8,439,000 deleted text begin 8,439,000 deleted text end new text begin 8,499,000 new text end
Appropriations by Fund
General 3,467,000 deleted text begin 3,467,000 deleted text end new text begin 3,527,000 new text end
H.U.T.D. 1,366,000 1,366,000
Trunk Highway 3,606,000 3,606,000

$380,000 in each year is from the general fund for payment of public safety officer survivor benefits under Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.44. If the appropriation for either year is insufficient, the appropriation for the other year is available for it.

$1,367,000 in each year is from the general fund to be deposited in the public safety officer's benefit account. This money is available for reimbursements under Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.465.

$600,000 in each year is from the general fund and $100,000 in each year is from the trunk highway fund for soft body armor reimbursements under Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.38.

$792,000 in each year is from the general fund for transfer by the commissioner of management and budget to the trunk highway fund on December 31, 2013, and December 31, 2014, respectively, in order to reimburse the trunk highway fund for expenses not related to the fund. These represent amounts appropriated out of the trunk highway fund for general fund purposes in the administration and related services program.

$610,000 in each year is from the highway user tax distribution fund for transfer by the commissioner of management and budget to the trunk highway fund on December 31, 2013, and December 31, 2014, respectively, in order to reimburse the trunk highway fund for expenses not related to the fund. These represent amounts appropriated out of the trunk highway fund for highway user tax distribution fund purposes in the administration and related services program.

$716,000 in each year is from the highway user tax distribution fund for transfer by the commissioner of management and budget to the general fund on December 31, 2013, and December 31, 2014, respectively, in order to reimburse the general fund for expenses not related to the fund. These represent amounts appropriated out of the general fund for operation of the criminal justice data network related to driver and motor vehicle licensing.

Before January 15, 2015, the commissioner of public safety shall review the amounts and purposes of the transfers under this paragraph and shall recommend necessary changes to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over transportation finance.

new text begin $60,000 in the second year is from the general fund for light rail safety oversight under Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.017. The base appropriation from the general fund for this purpose in fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is $60,000 each year. new text end

(c) Technology and Support Service 3,685,000 3,685,000
Appropriations by Fund
General 1,322,000 1,322,000
H.U.T.D. 19,000 19,000
Trunk Highway 2,344,000 2,344,000

Sec. 11.

Laws 2013, chapter 117, article 1, section 5, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

State Patrol

(a) Patrolling Highways 72,522,000 deleted text begin 72,522,000 deleted text end
new text begin 78,471,000 new text end
Appropriations by Fund
General 37,000 37,000
H.U.T.D. 92,000 92,000
Trunk Highway 72,393,000 deleted text begin 72,393,000 deleted text end
new text begin 78,342,000 new text end

new text begin $5,949,000 in the second year is from the trunk highway fund to recruit, hire, train at the State Patrol Academy, equip, and provide salary for 48 troopers. new text end

new text begin The base appropriation from the trunk highway fund is $77,893,000 in each of fiscal years 2016 and 2017. new text end

(b) Commercial Vehicle Enforcement 7,796,000 7,796,000
(c) Capitol Security 4,355,000 deleted text begin 4,355,000 deleted text end new text begin 6,355,000 new text end

This appropriation is from the general fund.

$1,250,000 in deleted text begin each yeardeleted text end new text begin 2014 and $3,250,000 in 2015 and each subsequent year new text end is to implement the recommendations of the advisory committee on Capitol Area Security under Minnesota Statutes, section 299E.04, including the creation of an emergency manager position under Minnesota Statutes, section 299E.01, subdivision 2, and an increase in the number of State Patrol troopers and other security officers assigned to the Capitol complex.

The commissioner may not: (1) spend any money from the trunk highway fund for capitol security; or (2) permanently transfer any state trooper from the patrolling highways activity to capitol security.

The commissioner may not transfer any money appropriated to the commissioner under this section: (1) to capitol security; or (2) from capitol security.

(d) Vehicle Crimes Unit 693,000 693,000

This appropriation is from the highway user tax distribution fund.

This appropriation is to investigate: (1) registration tax and motor vehicle sales tax liabilities from individuals and businesses that currently do not pay all taxes owed; and (2) illegal or improper activity related to sale, transfer, titling, and registration of motor vehicles.

Sec. 12.

Laws 2013, chapter 117, article 1, section 5, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Driver and Vehicle Services

(a) Vehicle Services 27,909,000 deleted text begin 28,430,000deleted text end new text begin 28,453,000new text end
Appropriations by Fund
Special Revenue 19,673,000 deleted text begin 19,771,000 deleted text end new text begin 20,217,000 new text end
H.U.T.D. 8,236,000 8,236,000

The special revenue fund appropriation is from the vehicle services operating account.

$650,000 in each year is from the special revenue fund for seven additional positions to enhance customer service related to vehicle title issuance.

$521,000 in the second year is from the special revenue fund for the vehicle services portion of a new telephone system and is for transfer to the Office of Enterprise Technology for construction and development of the system. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until expended.

new text begin $23,000 in the second year is from the special revenue fund for expenses related to the task force on motor vehicle insurance coverage verification. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

The base appropriation from the special revenue fund is deleted text begin $27,909,000deleted text end new text begin $19,673,000 new text end for fiscal year 2016 and deleted text begin $27,909,000deleted text end new text begin $19,673,000 new text end for fiscal year 2017.

(b) Driver Services 28,749,000 deleted text begin 29,162,000 deleted text end new text begin 30,001,000 new text end
Appropriations by Fund
Special Revenue 28,748,000 deleted text begin 29,161,000 deleted text end new text begin 30,000,000 new text end
Trunk Highway 1,000 1,000

The special revenue fund appropriation is from the driver services operating account.

$71,000 in the second year is from the special revenue fund for one additional position related to facial recognition.

$279,000 in the second year is from the special revenue fund for the driver services portion of a new telephone system and is for transfer to the Office of Enterprise Technology for construction and development of the system. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until expended.

$37,000 in the first year and $33,000 in the second year are from the special revenue fund for one half-time position to assist with the Novice Driver Improvement Task Force under Minnesota Statutes, section 171.0701, subdivision 1a. The base appropriation for this position is $6,000 in fiscal year 2016 and $0 in fiscal year 2017.

$67,000 in the second year is from the special revenue fund for one new position to administer changes to the ignition interlock program. The base appropriation for this position in fiscal years 2016 and 2017 is $62,000 in each year.

new text begin $23,000 in the second year is from the special revenue fund for expenses related to the task force on motor vehicle insurance coverage verification. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $816,000 in the second year is from the special revenue fund for 12 new positions to implement improved driving skill examination scheduling. The base appropriation for these positions is $759,000 in fiscal year 2016 and $774,000 in fiscal year 2017. new text end

The base appropriation from the special revenue fund is deleted text begin $28,851,000deleted text end new text begin $29,609,000 new text end for fiscal year 2016 and deleted text begin $28,845,000deleted text end new text begin $29,618,000 new text end for fiscal year 2017.

Sec. 13.

new text begin TRANSFER; RAILROAD AND PIPELINE SAFETY. new text end

new text begin On or before July 31, 2014, the commissioner of management and budget shall transfer $1,574,000 from the general fund to the railroad and pipeline safety account in the special revenue fund under Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.55. This is a onetime transfer. new text end

ARTICLE 10

RAILROAD AND PIPELINE SAFETY

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115E.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 6a. new text end

new text begin Incident commander. new text end

new text begin "Incident commander" means the official at the site of a discharge who has the responsibility for operations at the site, as established following National Incident Management System guidelines. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115E.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 7a. new text end

new text begin Listed sensitive area. new text end

new text begin "Listed sensitive area" means an area or location listed as an area of special economic or environmental importance in an Area Contingency Plan or a Sub-Area Contingency Plan prepared under the federal Clean Water Act, United States Code, title 33, section 1321(j)(4). new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115E.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 11d. new text end

new text begin Unit train. new text end

new text begin "Unit train" means a train with more than 25 tanker railcars carrying oil or hazardous substance cargo. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin [115E.042] PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE FOR CERTAIN RAILROADS. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Application. new text end

new text begin In addition to the requirements of section 115E.04, a person who owns or operates railroad car rolling stock transporting a unit train must comply with this section. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Training. new text end

new text begin (a) Each railroad must offer training to each fire department having jurisdiction along the route of unit trains. Initial training under this subdivision must be offered to each fire department by June 30, 2016, and refresher training must be offered to each fire department at least once every three years thereafter. new text end

new text begin (b) The training must address the general hazards of oil and hazardous substances, techniques to assess hazards to the environment and to the safety of responders and the public, factors an incident commander must consider in determining whether to attempt to suppress a fire or to evacuate the public and emergency responders from an area, and other strategies for initial response by local emergency responders. The training must include suggested protocol or practices for local responders to safely accomplish these tasks. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Coordination. new text end

new text begin Beginning June 30, 2015, each railroad must communicate at least annually with each county or city emergency manager, safety representatives of railroad employees governed by the Railway Labor Act, and a senior fire department officer of each fire department having jurisdiction along the route of a unit train, to ensure coordination of emergency response activities between the railroad and local responders. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Response capabilities; time limits. new text end

new text begin (a) Following confirmation of a discharge, a railroad must deliver and deploy sufficient equipment and trained personnel to contain and recover discharged oil or hazardous substances and to protect the environment and public safety. new text end

new text begin (b) Within one hour of confirmation of a discharge, a railroad must provide a qualified company employee to advise the incident commander. The employee may be made available by telephone, and must be authorized to deploy all necessary response resources of the railroad. new text end

new text begin (c) Within three hours of confirmation of a discharge, a railroad must be capable of delivering monitoring equipment and a trained operator to assist in protection of responder and public safety. A plan to ensure delivery of monitoring equipment and an operator to a discharge site must be provided each year to the commissioner of public safety. new text end

new text begin (d) Within three hours of confirmation of a discharge, a railroad must provide qualified personnel at a discharge site to assess the discharge and to advise the incident commander. new text end

new text begin (e) A railroad must be capable of deploying containment boom from land across sewer outfalls, creeks, ditches, and other places where oil or hazardous substances may drain, in order to contain leaked material before it reaches those resources. The arrangement to provide containment boom and staff may be made by: new text end

new text begin (1) training and caching equipment with local jurisdictions; new text end

new text begin (2) training and caching equipment with a fire mutual-aid group; new text end

new text begin (3) means of an industry cooperative or mutual-aid group; new text end

new text begin (4) deployment of a contractor; new text end

new text begin (5) deployment of a response organization under state contract; or new text end

new text begin (6) other dependable means acceptable to the Pollution Control Agency. new text end

new text begin (f) Each arrangement under paragraph (e) must be confirmed each year. Each arrangement must be tested by drill at least once every five years. new text end

new text begin (g) Within eight hours of confirmation of a discharge, a railroad must be capable of delivering and deploying containment boom, boats, oil recovery equipment, trained staff, and all other materials needed to provide: new text end

new text begin (1) on-site containment and recovery of a volume of oil equal to ten percent of the calculated worst case discharge at any location along the route; and new text end

new text begin (2) protection of listed sensitive areas and potable water intakes within one mile of a discharge site and within eight hours of water travel time downstream in any river or stream that the right-of-way intersects. new text end

new text begin (h) Within 60 hours of confirmation of a discharge, a railroad must be capable of delivering and deploying additional containment boom, boats, oil recovery equipment, trained staff, and all other materials needed to provide containment and recovery of a worst case discharge and to protect listed sensitive areas and potable water intakes at any location along the route. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Railroad drills. new text end

new text begin Each railroad must conduct at least one oil containment, recovery, and sensitive area protection drill every three years, at a location and time chosen by the Pollution Control Agency, and attended by safety representatives of railroad employees governed by the Railway Labor Act. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Prevention and response plans. new text end

new text begin (a) By June 30, 2015, a railroad shall submit the prevention and response plan required under section 115E.04, as necessary to comply with the requirements of this section, to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency on a form designated by the commissioner. new text end

new text begin (b) By June 30 of every third year following a plan submission under this subdivision, a railroad must update and resubmit the prevention and response plan to the commissioner. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin Subdivisions 1 to 3 and 6 are effective the day following final enactment. Subdivisions 4 and 5 are effective July 1, 2015. new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115E.08, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 3a. new text end

new text begin Railroad preparedness; pollution control. new text end

new text begin The Pollution Control Agency shall carry out environmental protection activities related to railroad discharge preparedness. Duties under this subdivision include, but are not limited to: new text end

new text begin (1) assisting local emergency managers and fire officials in understanding the hazards of oil and hazardous substances, as well as general strategies for containment and environmental protection; new text end

new text begin (2) assisting railroads to identify natural resources and sensitive areas, and to devise strategies to contain and recover oil and hazardous substances from land and waters along routes; new text end

new text begin (3) facilitating cooperation between railroads for mutual aid arrangements that provide training, staff, and equipment as required by this chapter; new text end

new text begin (4) participating in drills and training sessions; new text end

new text begin (5) reviewing each railroad's prevention and response plan for compliance with the requirements of this chapter, and assessing each railroad's readiness to protect the environment; new text end

new text begin (6) conducting inspections and drills as necessary to determine the railroad's compliance with the requirements of this chapter and ability to protect the environment; new text end

new text begin (7) conducting follow-up corrective action directives, orders, and enforcement as necessary based on a finding of inadequate environmental protection preparedness; and new text end

new text begin (8) soliciting involvement and advice concerning preparedness activities and requirements from safety representatives of railroad employees governed by the Railway Labor Act. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 115E.08, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 3b. new text end

new text begin Railroad and pipeline preparedness; public safety. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of public safety shall carry out public safety protection activities related to railroad and pipeline spill and discharge preparedness. Duties under this subdivision include, but are not limited to: new text end

new text begin (1) assisting local emergency managers and fire officials to understand the hazards of oil and hazardous substances, as well as general strategies for hazard identification, initial isolation, and other actions necessary to ensure public safety; new text end

new text begin (2) assisting railroads and pipeline companies to develop suggested protocols and practices for local first responder use in protecting the public's safety; new text end

new text begin (3) facilitating cooperation between railroads, pipeline companies, county and city emergency managers, and other public safety organizations; new text end

new text begin (4) participating in major exercises and training sessions; new text end

new text begin (5) assisting local units of government to incorporate railroad and pipeline hazard and response information into local emergency operations plans; new text end

new text begin (6) monitoring the public safety-related training and planning requirements of section 115E.03; and new text end

new text begin (7) referring noncompliance with section 115E.03 to the Pollution Control Agency. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 219.015, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

deleted text begin Positiondeleted text end new text begin Positionsnew text end established; duties.

new text begin (a) new text end The commissioner of transportation shall establish deleted text begin a position ofdeleted text end new text begin threenew text end state rail safety inspectornew text begin positionsnew text end in the Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations of the Minnesota Department of Transportation.new text begin On or after July 1, 2015, the commissioner may establish a fourth state rail safety inspector position following consultation with railroad companies.new text end The commissioner shall apply tonew text begin and enter into agreements withnew text end the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) of the United States Department of Transportation to participate in the federal State Rail Safety deleted text begin Partnershipdeleted text end new text begin Participationnew text end Program for training and certification of an inspector under authority of United States Code, title 49, sections 20103, 20105, 20106, and 20113, and Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 212.

deleted text begin Thedeleted text end new text begin (b) Anew text end state rail safety inspector shall inspect mainline track, secondary track, and yard and industry track; inspect railroad right-of-way, including adjacent or intersecting drainage, culverts, bridges, overhead structures, and traffic and other public crossings; inspect yards and physical plants; review and enforce safety requirements; review maintenance and repair records; and review railroad security measures.

new text begin (c) A state rail safety inspector may perform, but is not limited to, the duties described in the federal State Rail Safety Participation Program. An inspector may train, be certified, and participate in any of the federal State Rail Safety Participation Program disciplines, including: track, signal and train control, motive power and equipment, operating practices compliance, hazardous materials, and highway-rail grade crossings. new text end

new text begin (d)new text end To the extent delegatednew text begin by the Federal Railroad Administration and authorizednew text end by the commissioner, deleted text begin thedeleted text end new text begin annew text end inspector may issue citations for violations of this chapter, or to ensure railroad employee and public safety and welfare.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 219.015, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Railroad company assessment; account; appropriation.

new text begin (a) As provided in this subdivision, new text end the commissioner shall annually assess railroad companies that are (1) defined as common carriers under section 218.011deleted text begin ,deleted text end new text begin ;new text end (2) classified by federal law or regulation as Class I Railroadsnew text begin ,new text end deleted text begin ordeleted text end Class I Rail Carriers,new text begin Class II Railroads, or Class II Carriers;new text end and (3) operating in this statedeleted text begin ,deleted text end new text begin .new text end

new text begin (b) The assessment must benew text end by a division ofnew text begin state rail safety inspector program costs innew text end equal proportion between carriersnew text begin based on route miles operated in Minnesotanew text end , assessed in equal amounts for 365 days of the calendar year. The commissioner shall assess all start-up or re-establishment costs, deleted text begin anddeleted text end all related costs of initiating the state rail safety inspector program deleted text begin beginning July 1, 2008. Thedeleted text end new text begin , and ongoingnew text end state rail inspector duties deleted text begin must begin and be assessed on January 1, 2009deleted text end .

new text begin (c)new text end The assessments must be deposited in a special account in the special revenue fund, to be known as the state rail safety inspection account. Money in the account is appropriated to the commissioner deleted text begin and may be expended to cover the costs incurreddeleted text end for the establishment and ongoing responsibilities of the state rail safety inspectornew text begin programnew text end .

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 9.

new text begin [299A.55] RAILROAD AND PIPELINE SAFETY; OIL AND OTHER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. 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 them. new text end

new text begin (b) "Applicable rail carrier" means a railroad company that is subject to an assessment under section 219.015, subdivision 2. new text end

new text begin (c) "Hazardous substance" has the meaning given in section 115B.02, subdivision 8. new text end

new text begin (d) "Oil" has the meaning given in section 115E.01, subdivision 8. new text end

new text begin (e) "Pipeline company" means any individual, partnership, association, or public or private corporation who owns and operates pipeline facilities and is required to show specific preparedness under section 115E.03, subdivision 2. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Railroad and pipeline safety account. new text end

new text begin (a) A railroad and pipeline safety account is created in the special revenue fund. The account consists of funds collected under subdivision 4 and funds donated, allotted, transferred, or otherwise provided to the account. new text end

new text begin (b) $104,000 is annually appropriated from the railroad and pipeline safety account to the commissioner of the Pollution Control Agency for environmental protection activities related to railroad discharge preparedness under chapter 115E. new text end

new text begin (c) Following the appropriation in paragraph (b), the remaining money in the account is annually appropriated to the commissioner of public safety for the purposes specified in subdivision 3. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Allocation of funds. new text end

new text begin (a) Subject to funding appropriated for this subdivision, the commissioner shall provide funds for training and response preparedness related to (1) derailments, discharge incidents, or spills involving trains carrying oil or other hazardous substances, and (2) pipeline discharge incidents or spills involving oil or other hazardous substances. new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner shall allocate available funds as follows: new text end

new text begin (1) $100,000 annually for emergency response teams; and new text end

new text begin (2) the remaining amount to the Board of Firefighter Training and Education under section 299N.02 and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. new text end

new text begin (c) Prior to making allocations under paragraph (b), the commissioner shall consult with the Fire Service Advisory Committee under section 299F.012, subdivision 2. new text end

new text begin (d) The commissioner and the entities identified in paragraph (b), clause (2), shall prioritize uses of funds based on: new text end

new text begin (1) firefighter training needs; new text end

new text begin (2) community risk from discharge incidents or spills; new text end

new text begin (3) geographic balance; and new text end

new text begin (4) recommendations of the Fire Service Advisory Committee. new text end

new text begin (e) The following are permissible uses of funds provided under this subdivision: new text end

new text begin (1) training costs, which may include, but are not limited to, training curriculum, trainers, trainee overtime salary, other personnel overtime salary, and tuition; new text end

new text begin (2) costs of gear and equipment related to hazardous materials readiness, response, and management, which may include, but are not limited to, original purchase, maintenance, and replacement; new text end

new text begin (3) supplies related to the uses under clauses (1) and (2); and new text end

new text begin (4) emergency preparedness planning and coordination. new text end

new text begin (f) Notwithstanding paragraph (b), clause (2), from funds in the railroad and pipeline safety account provided for the purposes under this subdivision, the commissioner may retain a balance in the account for budgeting in subsequent fiscal years. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Assessments. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of public safety shall annually assess $2,500,000 to railroad and pipeline companies based on the formula specified in paragraph (b). The commissioner shall deposit funds collected under this subdivision in the railroad and pipeline safety account under subdivision 2. new text end

new text begin (b) The assessment for each railroad is 50 percent of the total annual assessment amount, divided in equal proportion between applicable rail carriers based on route miles operated in Minnesota. The assessment for each pipeline company is 50 percent of the total annual assessment amount, divided in equal proportion between companies based on the yearly aggregate gallons of oil and hazardous substance transported by pipeline in Minnesota. new text end

new text begin (c) The assessments under this subdivision expire July 1, 2017. new text end

Sec. 10.

new text begin IMPROVEMENTS STUDY ON GRADE CROSSINGS AND RAIL SAFETY FOR OIL AND OTHER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRANSPORTATION. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of transportation shall conduct a study on highway-rail grade crossing improvement for oil and other hazardous materials transported by rail, and on rail safety. At a minimum, the study must: new text end

new text begin (1) provide information that assists in risk management associated with transportation of oil and other hazardous materials by rail; new text end

new text begin (2) develop criteria to prioritize needs and improvements at highway-rail grade crossings; new text end

new text begin (3) consider alternatives for safety improvements, including but not limited to active warning devices such as gates and signals, closings, and grade separation; new text end

new text begin (4) provide findings and recommendations that serve to direct accelerated investments in highway-rail grade crossing safety improvements; and new text end

new text begin (5) analyze state inspection activities and staffing for track and hazardous materials under Minnesota Statutes, section 219.015. new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner shall submit an interim update on the study by August 31, 2014, and a final report by October 31, 2014, to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over transportation policy and finance. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 11.

new text begin REPORTS ON INCIDENT PREPAREDNESS FOR OIL TRANSPORTATION. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Report on response preparedness. new text end

new text begin By January 15, 2015, the commissioner of public safety shall submit a report on emergency response preparedness in the public and private sectors for incidents involving transportation of oil to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over transportation and public safety policy and finance. At a minimum, the report must: new text end

new text begin (1) summarize the preparedness and emergency response framework in the state; new text end

new text begin (2) provide an assessment of costs and needs of fire departments and other emergency first responders for training and equipment to respond to discharge or spill incidents involving transportation of oil; new text end

new text begin (3) develop a comprehensive public and private response capacity inventory that, to the extent feasible, includes statewide identification of major emergency response equipment, equipment staging locations, mutual aid agreements, and capacities across industries involved in transportation and storage of oil; new text end

new text begin (4) provide information and analysis that forms the basis for allocation of funds under Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.55; new text end

new text begin (5) develop benchmarks or assessment criteria for the evaluation under subdivision 2; new text end

new text begin (6) assist in long-range oil transportation incident preparedness planning; and new text end

new text begin (7) make recommendations for any legislative changes. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Evaluation of response preparedness and funding. new text end

new text begin By January 15, 2017, the commissioner of public safety shall submit an evaluation of safety preparedness and funding related to incidents involving transportation of oil to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over transportation and public safety policy and finance. At a minimum, the evaluation must: new text end

new text begin (1) provide an update to the report under subdivision 1 that identifies notable changes and provides updated information as appropriate; new text end

new text begin (2) evaluate the effectiveness of training and response preparedness activities under Minnesota Statutes, section 299A.55, using the criteria established under subdivision 1, clause (5); new text end

new text begin (3) identify current sources of funds, funding levels, and any unfunded needs for preparedness activities; new text end

new text begin (4) analyze equity in the distribution of funding sources for preparedness activities, which must include but is not limited to (i) examination of the public-private partnership financing model, and (ii) review of balance across industries involved in storage and distribution of oil; and new text end

new text begin (5) make recommendations for any programmatic or legislative changes. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

ARTICLE 11

TRANSPORTATION FINANCE PROVISIONS

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 161.14, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 78. new text end

new text begin Trooper Glen Skalman Memorial Highway. new text end

new text begin That segment of signed U.S. Highway 61 from the intersection with signed U.S. Highway 8 in Forest Lake to the intersection with 260th Street in Wyoming is designated as "Trooper Glen Skalman Memorial Highway." Subject to section 161.139, the commissioner shall adopt a suitable design to mark this highway and erect appropriate signs in the vicinity of the location where Trooper Skalman died. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 165.15, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Use of funds.

(a) Income derived from the investment of principal in the account may be used by the commissioner of transportation for operations and routine maintenance of the Stillwater lift bridgenew text begin , including bridge safety inspections and reactive repairsnew text end . No money from this account may be used for any purposes except those described in this section, and no money from this account may be transferred to any other account in the state treasury without specific legislative authorization. Any money transferred from the trunk highway fund may only be used for trunk highway purposes. For the purposes of this section:

(1) "Income" is the amount of interest on debt securities and dividends on equity securities. Any gains or losses from the sale of securities must be added to the principal of the account.

(2) "Routine maintenance" means activities that are predictable and repetitive, but not activities that would constitute major repairs or rehabilitation.

(b) Investment management fees incurred by the State Board of Investment are eligible expenses for reimbursement from the account.

(c) The commissioner of transportation has authority to approve or deny expenditures of funds in the account.

Sec. 3.

new text begin [168.1299] MINNESOTA GOLF PLATES. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Issuance. new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding section 168.1293, the commissioner shall issue special Minnesota golf plates or a single motorcycle plate to an applicant who: new text end

new text begin (1) is a registered owner of a passenger automobile, one-ton pickup truck, motorcycle, or recreational vehicle; new text end

new text begin (2) pays a fee of $10 and any other fees required by this chapter; new text end

new text begin (3) contributes a minimum of $30 annually after January 1, 2017, to the Minnesota Section PGA Foundation account; and new text end

new text begin (4) complies with this chapter and rules governing registration of motor vehicles and licensing of drivers. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Design. new text end

new text begin After consultation with the Minnesota Section PGA and the Minnesota Golf Association, the commissioner shall design the special plate. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Plates transfer. new text end

new text begin On payment of a fee of $5, plates issued under this section may be transferred to another passenger automobile, one-ton pickup truck, motorcycle, or other recreational vehicle registered to the individual to whom the special plates were issued. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Fees. new text end

new text begin Fees collected under subdivision 1, clause (2), and subdivision 3 are credited to the vehicle services operating account in the special revenue fund. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Contributions. new text end

new text begin Contributions collected under subdivision 1, clause (3), are credited first to the commissioner of public safety for the cost of administering the Minnesota Section PGA Foundation account, which is established in the special revenue fund. After the commissioner's administration costs are paid each year, remaining contributions are credited to the Minnesota Section PGA Foundation account. Money in the account is appropriated to the commissioner of public safety for distribution to the Minnesota Section PGA Foundation, to be used to enhance and promote the game of golf throughout Minnesota. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin Subdivisions 1 to 4 are effective January 1, 2015, for special Minnesota golf plates issued on or after that date. Subdivision 5 is effective January 1, 2017. new text end

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.011, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 95. new text end

new text begin Work zone. new text end

new text begin "Work zone" means a segment of street or highway for which: new text end

new text begin (1) a road authority or its agent is constructing, reconstructing, or maintaining the physical structure of the roadway, which may include, but is not limited to, shoulders, features adjacent to the roadway, and utilities and highway appurtenances, whether underground or overhead; and new text end

new text begin (2) any of the following applies: new text end

new text begin (i) official traffic-control devices that indicate the segment of street or highway under construction, reconstruction, or maintenance, are erected; new text end

new text begin (ii) one or more lanes of traffic are closed; new text end

new text begin (iii) a flagger under section 169.06, subdivision 4a, is present; new text end

new text begin (iv) a construction zone speed limit under section 169.14, subdivision 4, is established; or new text end

new text begin (v) a workers present speed limit under section 169.14, subdivision 5d, is in effect. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

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

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.06, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Obedience to traffic-control signal or deleted text begin flaggerdeleted text end new text begin authorized personsnew text end ; presumptions.

(a) The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any official traffic-control device applicable thereto placed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, unless otherwise directed by a police officer or by a flagger authorized under this subdivision, subject to the exceptions granted the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle in this chapter.

(b) No provision of this chapter for which official traffic-control devices are required shall be enforced against an alleged violator if at the time and place of the alleged violation an official device is not in proper position and sufficiently legible to be seen by an ordinarily observant person. Whenever a particular section does not state that official traffic-control devices are required, such section shall be effective even though no devices are erected or in place.

(c) Whenever official traffic-control devices are placed in position approximately conforming to the requirements of this chapter, such devices shall be presumed to have been so placed by the official act or direction of lawful authority, unless the contrary shall be established by competent evidence.

(d) Any official traffic-control device placed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter and purporting to conform to the lawful requirements pertaining to such devices shall be presumed to comply with the requirements of this chapter, unless the contrary shall be established by competent evidence.

(e) deleted text begin A flagger in a designated work zone may stop vehicles and hold vehicles in place until it is safe for the vehicles to proceed. A person operating a motor vehicle that has been stopped by a flagger in a designated work zone may proceed after stopping only on instruction by the flagger.deleted text end

deleted text begin (f)deleted text end An overdimensional load escort driver with a certificate issued under section 299D.085, while acting as a flagger escorting a legal overdimensional load, may stop vehicles and hold vehicles in place until it is safe for the vehicles to proceed. A person operating a motor vehicle that has been stopped by an escort driver acting as a flagger may proceed only on instruction by the flagger or a police officer.

deleted text begin (g)deleted text end new text begin (f)new text end A person may stop and hold vehicles in place until it is safe for the vehicles to proceed, if the person: (1) holds a motorcycle road guard certificate issued under section 171.60; (2) meets the safety and equipment standards for operating under the certificate; (3) is acting as a flagger escorting a motorcycle group ride; (4) has notified each statutory or home rule charter city through which the motorcycle group is proceeding; and (5) has obtained consent from the chief of police, or the chief's designee, of any city of the first class through which the group is proceeding. A flagger operating as provided under this paragraph may direct operators of motorcycles within a motorcycle group ride or other vehicle traffic, notwithstanding any contrary indication of a traffic-control device, including stop signs or traffic-control signals. A person operating a vehicle that has been stopped by a flagger under this paragraph may proceed only on instruction by the flagger or a police officer.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

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

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.06, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 4a. new text end

new text begin Obedience to work zone flagger; violation, penalty. new text end

new text begin (a) A flagger in a work zone may stop vehicles and hold vehicles in place until it is safe for the vehicles to proceed. A person operating a motor vehicle that has been stopped by a flagger in a work zone may proceed after stopping only on instruction by the flagger or a police officer. new text end

new text begin (b) A person convicted of operating a motor vehicle in violation of a speed limit in a work zone, or any other provision of this section while in a work zone, shall be required to pay a fine of $300. This fine is in addition to the surcharge under section 357.021, subdivision 6. new text end

new text begin (c) If a motor vehicle is operated in violation of paragraph (a), the owner of the vehicle, or for a leased motor vehicle the lessee of the vehicle, is guilty of a petty misdemeanor and is subject to a fine as provided in paragraph (b). The owner or lessee may not be fined under this paragraph if (1) another person is convicted for that violation, or (2) the motor vehicle was stolen at the time of the violation. This paragraph does not apply to a lessor of a motor vehicle if the lessor keeps a record of the name and address of the lessee. new text end

new text begin (d) Paragraph (c) does not prohibit or limit the prosecution of a motor vehicle operator for violating paragraph (a). new text end

new text begin (e) A violation under paragraph (c) does not constitute grounds for revocation or suspension of a driver's license. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective August 1, 2014, and applies to violations committed on or after that date. new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.14, subdivision 5d, is amended to read:

Subd. 5d.

Speed deleted text begin zoningdeleted text end new text begin limitnew text end in work zonedeleted text begin ; surchargedeleted text end new text begin when workers presentnew text end .

(a) new text begin Notwithstanding subdivision 2 and subject to subdivision 3, the speed limit on a road having an established speed limit of 50 miles per hour or greater is adjusted to 45 miles per hour in a work zone when (1) at least one lane or portion of a lane of traffic is closed in either direction, and (2) workers are present. A speed in excess of the adjusted speed limit is unlawful.new text end

new text begin (b) Paragraph (a) does not apply to a segment of road in which: new text end

new text begin (1) positive barriers are placed between workers and the traveled portion of the highway; new text end

new text begin (2) the work zone is in place for less than 24 hours; new text end

new text begin (3) a different speed limit for the work zone is determined by the road authority following an engineering and traffic investigation and based on accepted engineering practice; or new text end

new text begin (4) a different speed limit for the work zone is established by the road authority under paragraph (c). new text end

new text begin (c)new text end The commissioner, on trunk highways and temporary trunk highways, and local authorities, on streets and highways under their jurisdiction, may authorize the use of reduced maximum speed limits in deleted text begin highwaydeleted text end work zonesdeleted text begin . The commissioner or local authority is not required to conductdeleted text end new text begin when workers are present, without new text end an engineering and traffic investigation deleted text begin before authorizing a reduced speed limit in a highway work zonedeleted text end new text begin requirednew text end .new text begin The work zone speed limit must not reduce the speed limit on the affected street or highway by more than:new text end

deleted text begin (b) The minimum highway work zone speed limit is 20 miles per hour. The work zone speed limit must not reduce the established speed limit on the affected street or highway by more than 15 miles per hour, except that the highway work zone speed limit must not exceed 40 miles per hour. The commissioner or local authority shall post the limits of the work zone. Highway work zone speed limits are effective on erection of appropriate regulatory speed limit signs. The signs must be removed or covered when they are not required. A speed greater than the posted highway work zone speed limit is unlawful. deleted text end

deleted text begin (c) Notwithstanding paragraph (b), on divided highways the commissioner or local authority may establish a highway work zone speed limit that does not exceed 55 miles per hour. deleted text end

deleted text begin (d) Notwithstanding paragraph (b), on two-lane highways having one lane for each direction of travel with a posted speed limit of 60 miles per hour or greater, the commissioner or local authority may establish a highway work zone speed limit that does not exceed 40 miles per hour. deleted text end

deleted text begin (e) For purposes of this subdivision, "highway work zone" means a segment of highway or street where a road authority or its agent is constructing, reconstructing, or maintaining the physical structure of the roadway, its shoulders, or features adjacent to the roadway, including underground and overhead utilities and highway appurtenances, when workers are present. deleted text end

deleted text begin (f) Notwithstanding section 609.0331 or 609.101 or other law to the contrary, a person who violates a speed limit established under this subdivision, or who violates any other provision of this section while in a highway work zone, is assessed an additional surcharge equal to the amount of the fine imposed for the speed violation, but not less than $25. deleted text end

new text begin (1) 20 miles per hour on a street or highway having an established speed limit of 55 miles per hour or greater; and new text end

new text begin (2) 15 miles per hour on a street or highway having an established speed limit of 50 miles per hour or less. new text end

new text begin (d) A work zone speed limit under paragraph (c) is effective on erection of appropriate regulatory speed limit signs. The signs must be removed or covered when they are not required. A speed in excess of the posted work zone speed limit is unlawful. new text end

new text begin (e) For any speed limit under this subdivision, a road authority shall erect signs identifying the speed limit and indicating the beginning and end of the speed limit zone. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective August 1, 2014, and applies to violations committed on or after that date. new text end

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.14, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 6a. new text end

new text begin Work zone speed limit violations. new text end

new text begin A person convicted of operating a motor vehicle in violation of a speed limit in a work zone, or any other provision of this section while in a work zone, shall be required to pay a fine of $300. This fine is in addition to the surcharge under section 357.021, subdivision 6. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective August 1, 2014, and applies to violations committed on or after that date. new text end

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.305, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Entrance and exit; crossover; use regulations; signs; rules.

(a) No person shall drive a vehicle onto or from any controlled-access highway except at such entrances and exits as are established by public authority.

(b) When special crossovers between the main roadways of a controlled-access highway are provided for emergency vehicles or maintenance equipment and such crossovers are signed to prohibit "U" turns, it shall be unlawful for any vehicle, except an emergency vehicle, maintenance equipment, deleted text begin ordeleted text end construction equipment including contractor's and state-owned equipment when operating within a marked construction zone, new text begin or a vehicle operated by a commercial vehicle inspector of the Department of Public Safety, new text end to use such crossover. Vehicles owned and operated by elderly and needy persons under contract with the commissioner of transportation pursuant to section 160.282 for maintenance services on highway rest stop and tourist centers outside the seven-county metropolitan area as defined in section 473.121, may also use these crossovers while those persons are proceeding to or from work in the rest area or tourist center if authorized by the commissioner, and the vehicle carries on its roof a distinctive flag designed and issued by the commissioner. For the purposes of this clause "emergency vehicle" includes a tow truck or towing vehicle if it is on the way to the location of an accident or a disabled vehicle.

(c) The commissioner of transportation may by order, and any public authority may by ordinance, with respect to any controlled-access highway under their jurisdictions prohibit or regulate the use of any such highway by pedestrians, bicycles, or other nonmotorized traffic, or by motorized bicycles, or by any class or kind of traffic which is found to be incompatible with the normal and safe flow of traffic.

(d) The commissioner of transportation or the public authority adopting any such prohibitory rules shall erect and maintain official signs on the controlled-access highway on which such rules are applicable and when so erected no person shall disobey the restrictions stated on such signs.

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.826, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Expiration date. new text end

new text begin Upon request of the permit applicant, the expiration date for a permit issued under this section must be the same as the expiration date of the permitted vehicle's registration. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.8261, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Expiration date. new text end

new text begin Upon request of the permit applicant, the expiration date for a permit issued under this section must be the same as the expiration date of the permitted vehicle's registration. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.86, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Fees; proceeds deposited; appropriation.

The commissioner, with respect to highways under the commissioner's jurisdiction, may charge a fee for each permit issued. new text begin The fee for an annual permit that expires by law on the date of the vehicle registration expiration must be based on the proportion of the year that remains until the expiration date. new text end Unless otherwise specified, all fees for permits issued by the commissioner of transportation must be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the trunk highway fund. Except for those annual permits for which the permit fees are specified elsewhere in this chapter, the fees are:

(a) $15 for each single trip permit.

(b) $36 for each job permit. A job permit may be issued for like loads carried on a specific route for a period not to exceed two months. "Like loads" means loads of the same product, weight, and dimension.

(c) $60 for an annual permit to be issued for a period not to exceed 12 consecutive months. Annual permits may be issued for:

(1) motor vehicles used to alleviate a temporary crisis adversely affecting the safety or well-being of the public;

(2) motor vehicles that travel on interstate highways and carry loads authorized under subdivision 1a;

(3) motor vehicles operating with gross weights authorized under section 169.826, subdivision 1a;

(4) special pulpwood vehicles described in section 169.863;

(5) motor vehicles bearing snowplow blades not exceeding ten feet in width;

(6) noncommercial transportation of a boat by the owner or user of the boat;

(7) motor vehicles carrying bales of agricultural products authorized under section 169.862; and

(8) special milk-hauling vehicles authorized under section 169.867.

(d) $120 for an oversize annual permit to be issued for a period not to exceed 12 consecutive months. Annual permits may be issued for:

(1) mobile cranes;

(2) construction equipment, machinery, and supplies;

(3) manufactured homes and manufactured storage buildings;

(4) implements of husbandry;

(5) double-deck buses;

(6) commercial boat hauling and transporting waterfront structures, including, but not limited to, portable boat docks and boat lifts;

(7) three-vehicle combinations consisting of two empty, newly manufactured trailers for cargo, horses, or livestock, not to exceed 28-1/2 feet per trailer; provided, however, the permit allows the vehicles to be moved from a trailer manufacturer to a trailer dealer only while operating on twin-trailer routes designated under section 169.81, subdivision 3, paragraph (c); and

(8) vehicles operating on that portion of marked Trunk Highway 36 described in section 169.81, subdivision 3, paragraph (e).

(e) For vehicles that have axle weights exceeding the weight limitations of sections 169.823 to 169.829, an additional cost added to the fees listed above. However, this paragraph applies to any vehicle described in section 168.013, subdivision 3, paragraph (b), but only when the vehicle exceeds its gross weight allowance set forth in that paragraph, and then the additional cost is for all weight, including the allowance weight, in excess of the permitted maximum axle weight. The additional cost is equal to the product of the distance traveled times the sum of the overweight axle group cost factors shown in the following chart:

Overweight Axle Group Cost Factors
Weight (pounds) Cost Per Mile For Each Group Of:
exceeding weight limitations on axles Two consecutive axles spaced within 8 feet or less Three consecutive axles spaced within 9 feet or less Four consecutive axles spaced within 14 feet or less
0-2,000 .12 .05 .04
2,001-4,000 .14 .06 .05
4,001-6,000 .18 .07 .06
6,001-8,000 .21 .09 .07
8,001-10,000 .26 .10 .08
10,001-12,000 .30 .12 .09
12,001-14,000 Not permitted .14 .11
14,001-16,000 Not permitted .17 .12
16,001-18,000 Not permitted .19 .15
18,001-20,000 Not permitted Not permitted .16
20,001-22,000 Not permitted Not permitted .20

The amounts added are rounded to the nearest cent for each axle or axle group. The additional cost does not apply to paragraph (c), clauses (1) and (3).

For a vehicle found to exceed the appropriate maximum permitted weight, a cost-per-mile fee of 22 cents per ton, or fraction of a ton, over the permitted maximum weight is imposed in addition to the normal permit fee. Miles must be calculated based on the distance already traveled in the state plus the distance from the point of detection to a transportation loading site or unloading site within the state or to the point of exit from the state.

(f) As an alternative to paragraph (e), an annual permit may be issued for overweight, or oversize and overweight, mobile cranes; construction equipment, machinery, and supplies; implements of husbandry; and commercial boat hauling. The fees for the permit are as follows:

Gross Weight (pounds) of Vehicle Annual Permit Fee
90,000 or less $200
90,001 - 100,000 $300
100,001 - 110,000 $400
110,001 - 120,000 $500
120,001 - 130,000 $600
130,001 - 140,000 $700
140,001 - 145,000 $800
145,001 - 155,000 $900

If the gross weight of the vehicle is more than 155,000 pounds the permit fee is determined under paragraph (e).

(g) For vehicles which exceed the width limitations set forth in section 169.80 by more than 72 inches, an additional cost equal to $120 added to the amount in paragraph (a) when the permit is issued while seasonal load restrictions pursuant to section 169.87 are in effect.

(h) $85 for an annual permit to be issued for a period not to exceed 12 months, for refuse-compactor vehicles that carry a gross weight of not more than: 22,000 pounds on a single rear axle; 38,000 pounds on a tandem rear axle; or, subject to section 169.828, subdivision 2, 46,000 pounds on a tridem rear axle. A permit issued for up to 46,000 pounds on a tridem rear axle must limit the gross vehicle weight to not more than 62,000 pounds.

(i) $300 for a motor vehicle described in section 169.8261. The fee under this paragraph must be deposited as follows:

(1) the first $50,000 in each fiscal year must be deposited in the trunk highway fund for costs related to administering the permit program and inspecting and posting bridges; and

(2) all remaining money in each fiscal year must be deposited in the bridge inspection and signing account as provided under subdivision 5b.

(j) Beginning August 1, 2006, $200 for an annual permit for a vehicle operating under authority of section 169.824, subdivision 2, paragraph (a), clause (2).

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.863, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Expiration date. new text end

new text begin Upon request of the permit applicant, the expiration date for a permit issued under this section must be the same as the expiration date of the permitted vehicle's registration. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.865, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Six-axle vehicles.

(a) A road authority may issue an annual permit authorizing a vehicle or combination of vehicles with a total of six or more axles to haul raw or unprocessed agricultural products and be operated with a gross vehicle weight of up to:

(1) 90,000 pounds; and

(2) 99,000 pounds during the period set by the commissioner under section 169.826, subdivision 1.

(b) Notwithstanding subdivision 3, paragraph (a), clause (4), a vehicle or combination of vehicles operated under this subdivision and transporting only sealed intermodal containers may be operated on an interstate highway if allowed by the United States Department of Transportation.

(c) The fee for a permit issued under this subdivision is $300new text begin , or a proportional amount as provided in section 169.86, subdivision 5new text end .

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.865, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Seven-axle vehicles.

(a) A road authority may issue an annual permit authorizing a vehicle or combination of vehicles with a total of seven or more axles to haul raw or unprocessed agricultural products and be operated with a gross vehicle weight of up to:

(1) 97,000 pounds; and

(2) 99,000 pounds during the period set by the commissioner under section 169.826, subdivision 1.

(b) Drivers of vehicles operating under this subdivision must comply with driver qualification requirements adopted under section 221.0314, subdivisions 2 to 5, and Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, parts 40 and 382.

(c) The fee for a permit issued under this subdivision is $500new text begin , or a proportional amount as provided in section 169.86, subdivision 5new text end .

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.865, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Expiration date. new text end

new text begin Upon request of the permit applicant, the expiration date for a permit issued under this section must be the same as the expiration date of the permitted vehicle's registration. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.866, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Permit fee; appropriation.

Vehicle permits issued under subdivision 1 must be annual permits. The fee is $850 for each vehiclenew text begin , or a proportional amount as provided in section 169.86, subdivision 5,new text end and must be deposited in the trunk highway fund. An amount sufficient to administer the permit program is appropriated from the trunk highway fund to the commissioner for the costs of administering the permit program.

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 169.866, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Expiration date. new text end

new text begin Upon request of the permit applicant, the expiration date for a permit issued under this section must be the same as the expiration date of the permitted vehicle's registration. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective November 30, 2016, and applies to permits issued on and after that date. new text end

Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 171.02, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Motorized bicycle.

(a) A motorized bicycle may not be operated on any public roadway by any person who does not possess a valid driver's license, unless the person has obtained a motorized bicycle operator's permit or motorized bicycle instruction permit from the commissioner of public safety. The operator's permit may be issued to any person who has attained the age of 15 years and who has passed the examination prescribed by the commissioner. The instruction permit may be issued to any person who has attained the age of 15 years and who has successfully completed an approved safety course and passed the written portion of the examination prescribed by the commissioner.

(b) This course must consist of, but is not limited to, a basic understanding of:

(1) motorized bicycles and their limitations;

(2) motorized bicycle laws and rules;

(3) safe operating practices and basic operating techniques;

(4) helmets and protective clothing;

(5) motorized bicycle traffic strategies; and

(6) effects of alcohol and drugs on motorized bicycle operators.

(c) The commissioner may adopt rules prescribing the content of the safety course, examination, and the information to be contained on the permits. A person operating a motorized bicycle under a motorized bicycle permit is subject to the restrictions imposed by section 169.974, subdivision 2, on operation of a motorcycle under a two-wheel instruction permit.

(d) The fees for motorized bicycle operator's permits are as follows:

deleted text begin (1) deleted text end deleted text begin Examination and operator's permit, valid for one year deleted text end deleted text begin $ deleted text end deleted text begin 6.75 deleted text end
deleted text begin (2) deleted text end deleted text begin Duplicate deleted text end deleted text begin $ deleted text end deleted text begin 3.75 deleted text end
deleted text begin (3) deleted text end new text begin (1) new text end deleted text begin Renewaldeleted text end new text begin Motorized bicycle operator'snew text end permit before age 21 and valid until age 21 $ 9.75
deleted text begin (4) deleted text end new text begin (2) new text end Renewal permit age 21 or older and valid for four years $ 15.75
deleted text begin (5) deleted text end new text begin (3) new text end Duplicate of any renewal permit $ 5.25
deleted text begin (6) deleted text end new text begin (4) new text end Written examination and instruction permit, valid for 30 days $ 6.75

Sec. 20.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 171.06, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Fees.

(a) The fees for a license and Minnesota identification card are as follows:

Classified Driver's License D-$17.25 C-$21.25 B-$28.25 A-$36.25
Classified Under-21 D.L. D-$17.25 C-$21.25 B-$28.25 A-$16.25
Enhanced Driver's License D-$32.25 C-$36.25 B-$43.25 A-$51.25
Instruction Permit $5.25
Enhanced Instruction Permit $20.25
new text begin Commercial Learner's Permit new text end new text begin $2.50 new text end
Provisional License $8.25
Enhanced Provisional License $23.25
Duplicate License or duplicate identification card $6.75
Enhanced Duplicate License or enhanced duplicate identification card $21.75
Minnesota identification card or Under-21 Minnesota identification card, other than duplicate, except as otherwise provided in section 171.07, subdivisions 3 and 3a $11.25
Enhanced Minnesota identification card $26.25

In addition to each fee required in this paragraph, the commissioner shall collect a surcharge of: (1) $1.75 until June 30, 2012; and (2) $1.00 from July 1, 2012, to June 30, 2016. Surcharges collected under this paragraph must be credited to the driver and vehicle services technology account in the special revenue fund under section 299A.705.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), an individual who holds a provisional license and has a driving record free of (1) convictions for a violation of section 169A.20, 169A.33, 169A.35, or sections 169A.50 to 169A.53, (2) convictions for crash-related moving violations, and (3) convictions for moving violations that are not crash related, shall have a $3.50 credit toward the fee for any classified under-21 driver's license. "Moving violation" has the meaning given it in section 171.04, subdivision 1.

(c) In addition to the driver's license fee required under paragraph (a), the commissioner shall collect an additional $4 processing fee from each new applicant or individual renewing a license with a school bus endorsement to cover the costs for processing an applicant's initial and biennial physical examination certificate. The department shall not charge these applicants any other fee to receive or renew the endorsement.

(d) In addition to the fee required under paragraph (a), a driver's license agent may charge and retain a filing fee as provided under section 171.061, subdivision 4.

(e) In addition to the fee required under paragraph (a), the commissioner shall charge a filing fee at the same amount as a driver's license agent under section 171.061, subdivision 4. Revenue collected under this paragraph must be deposited in the driver services operating account.

(f) An application for a Minnesota identification card, instruction permit, provisional license, or driver's license, including an application for renewal, must contain a provision that allows the applicant to add to the fee under paragraph (a), a $2 donation for the purposes of public information and education on anatomical gifts under section 171.075.

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 171.13, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Examination subjects and locations; provisions for color blindness, disabled veterans.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the commissioner shall examine each applicant for a driver's license by such agency as the commissioner directs. This examination must include:

(1) a test of the applicant's eyesight;

(2) a test of the applicant's ability to read and understand highway signs regulating, warning, and directing traffic;

(3) a test of the applicant's knowledge of (i) traffic laws; (ii) the effects of alcohol and drugs on a driver's ability to operate a motor vehicle safely and legally, and of the legal penalties and financial consequences resulting from violations of laws prohibiting the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; (iii) railroad grade crossing safety; (iv) slow-moving vehicle safety; (v) laws relating to pupil transportation safety, including the significance of school bus lights, signals, stop arm, and passing a school bus; (vi) traffic laws related to bicycles; and (vii) the circumstances and dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning;

(4) an actual demonstration of ability to exercise ordinary and reasonable control in the operation of a motor vehicle; and

(5) other physical and mental examinations as the commissioner finds necessary to determine the applicant's fitness to operate a motor vehicle safely upon the highways.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), no driver's license may be denied an applicant on the exclusive grounds that the applicant's eyesight is deficient in color perception. War veterans operating motor vehicles especially equipped for disabled persons, if otherwise entitled to a license, must be granted such license.

(c) The commissioner shall make provision for giving the examinations under this subdivision either in the county where the applicant resides or at a place adjacent thereto reasonably convenient to the applicant.

new text begin (d) The commissioner shall ensure that an applicant is able to obtain an appointment for an examination to demonstrate ability under paragraph (a), clause (4), within 14 days of the applicant's request if, under the applicable statutes and rules of the commissioner, the applicant is eligible to take the examination. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective May 1, 2015. new text end

Sec. 22.

new text begin [171.161] COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE; FEDERAL CONFORMITY. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Conformity with federal law. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of public safety shall ensure the programs and policies related to commercial drivers' licensure and the operation of commercial motor vehicles in Minnesota conform with the requirements of Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 383. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Conflicts. new text end

new text begin To the extent a requirement of sections 171.162 to 171.169, or any other state or local law, conflicts with a provision of Code of Federal Regulations, title 49, part 383, the federal provision prevails. new text end

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 174.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 10. new text end

new text begin Products and services; billing. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of transportation may bill operations units of the department for costs of centrally managed products or services that benefit multiple operations units. These costs may include equipment acquisition and rental, labor, materials, and other costs determined by the commissioner. Receipts must be credited to the special products and services account, which is established in the trunk highway fund, and are appropriated to the commissioner to pay the costs for which the billings are made. new text end

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, section 174.12, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Transportation economic development accounts.

(a) A transportation economic development account is established in the special revenue fund under the budgetary jurisdiction of the legislative committees having jurisdiction over transportation finance. Money in the account may be expended only as appropriated by law. The account may not contain money transferred or otherwise provided from the trunk highway fund.

(b) A transportation economic development account is established in the trunk highway fund. The account consists of funds donated, allotted, transferred, or otherwise provided to the account. Money in the account may be used only for trunk highway purposes. All funds in the account deleted text begin available prior to August 1, 2013,deleted text end are available until expended.

Sec. 25.

Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, section 174.42, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Funding requirement.

In each federal fiscal year, the commissioner shall obtain a total amount in federal authorizations for reimbursement on transportation alternatives projects that is equal to or greater than the annual average of federal authorizations on transportation alternatives projects calculated over deleted text begin the preceding fourdeleted text end federal fiscal yearsnew text begin 2010 to 2012new text end .

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment and applies to authorizations for federal fiscal year 2015 and subsequent federal fiscal years. new text end

Sec. 26.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 174.56, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Report required.

(a) The commissioner of transportation shall submit a report by December 15 of each year on (1) the status of major highway projects completed during the previous two years or under construction or planned during the year of the report and for the ensuing 15 years, deleted text begin anddeleted text end (2) trunk highway fund expendituresnew text begin , and (3) beginning with the report due in 2016, efficiencies achieved during the previous two fiscal yearsnew text end .

(b) For purposes of this section, a "major highway project" is a highway project that has a total cost for all segments that the commissioner estimates at the time of the report to be at least (1) $15,000,000 in the metropolitan highway construction district, or (2) $5,000,000 in any nonmetropolitan highway construction district.

Sec. 27.

new text begin [219.375] RAILROAD YARD LIGHTING. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Lighting status reports submitted by railroad common carriers. new text end

new text begin By January 15 of each year, each Class I and Class II railroad common carrier that operates one or more railroad yards in this state, where, between sunset and sunrise, cars or locomotives are frequently switched, repaired, or inspected, or where trains are assembled and disassembled, shall submit to the commissioner of transportation a plan that: new text end

new text begin (1) identifies all railroad yards operated by the railroad where the described work is frequently accomplished between sunset and sunrise; new text end

new text begin (2) describes the nature and placement of lighting equipment currently in use in the yard and the maintenance status and practices regarding this equipment; new text end

new text begin (3) states whether the lighting meets or exceeds guidelines for illumination established by the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association; new text end

new text begin (4) describes whether existing lighting is installed and operated in a manner consistent with energy conservation, glare reduction, minimization of light pollution, and preservation of the natural night environment; and new text end

new text begin (5) identifies plans and timelines to bring into compliance railroad yards that do not utilize and maintain lighting equipment that meets or exceeds the standards and guidelines under clauses (3) and (4), or states any reason why the standards and guidelines should not apply. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Maintenance of lighting equipment. new text end

new text begin A railroad common carrier that is required to file a report under subdivision 1 shall maintain all railroad yard lighting equipment in good working order and shall repair or replace any malfunctioning equipment within 48 hours after the malfunction has been reported to the carrier. Repairs must be made in compliance with, or to exceed the standards in, the Minnesota Electrical Code and chapter 326B. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Lighting status reports submitted by worker representative. new text end

new text begin By January 15 of each year, the union representative of the workers at each railroad yard required to submit a report under subdivision 1 shall submit to the commissioner of transportation a report that: new text end

new text begin (1) describes the nature and placement of lighting equipment currently in use in the yard and maintenance status and practices regarding the equipment; new text end

new text begin (2) describes the level of maintenance of lighting equipment and the carrier's promptness in responding to reports of lighting malfunction; new text end

new text begin (3) states whether the available lighting is adequate to provide safe working conditions for crews working at night; and new text end

new text begin (4) describes changes in the lighting equipment and its adequacy that have occurred since the last previous worker representative report. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Commissioner response. new text end

new text begin The commissioner shall review the reports submitted under subdivisions 1 and 3. The commissioner shall investigate any discrepancies between lighting status reports submitted under subdivisions 1 and 3, and shall report findings to the affected yard's owner and worker representative. The commissioner shall annually advise the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate committees and divisions with jurisdiction over transportation budget and policy as to the content of the reports submitted, discrepancies investigated, the progress achieved by the railroad common carriers towards achieving the standards and guidelines under clauses (3) and (4), and any recommendations for legislation to achieve compliance with the standards and guidelines within a reasonable period of time. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Required lighting. new text end

new text begin By December 31, 2015, a railroad common carrier shall establish lighting that meets the standards and guidelines under subdivision 1, clauses (3) and (4), at each railroad yard where: new text end

new text begin (1) between sunset and sunrise: new text end

new text begin (i) locomotives, or railcars carrying placarded hazardous materials, are frequently switched, repaired, or inspected; or new text end

new text begin (ii) trains with more than 25 tanker railcars carrying placarded hazardous materials are assembled and disassembled; and new text end

new text begin (2) the yard is located within two miles of a petroleum refinery having a crude oil production capacity of 150,000 or more barrels per day. new text end

Sec. 28.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 222.50, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Expenditures.

(a) The commissioner may expend money from the rail service improvement account for the following purposes:

(1) to make transfers as provided under section 222.57 or to pay interest adjustments on loans guaranteed under the state rail user and rail carrier loan guarantee program;

(2) to pay a portion of the costs of capital improvement projects designed to improve rail service of a rail user or a rail carrier;

(3) to pay a portion of the costs of rehabilitation projects designed to improve rail service of a rail user or a rail carrier;

(4) to acquire, maintain, manage, and dispose of railroad right-of-way pursuant to the state rail bank program;

(5) to provide for aerial photography survey of proposed and abandoned railroad tracks for the purpose of recording and reestablishing by analytical triangulation the existing alignment of the inplace track;

(6) to pay a portion of the costs of acquiring a rail line by a regional railroad authority established pursuant to chapter 398A;

(7) to pay the state matching portion of federal grants for rail-highway grade crossing improvement projects; deleted text begin anddeleted text end

(8)new text begin for expenditures made before July 1, 2017, to pay the state matching portion of grants under the federal Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) program of the United States Department of Transportation; andnew text end

new text begin (9)new text end to fund rail planning studies.

(b) All money derived by the commissioner from the disposition of railroad right-of-way or of any other property acquired pursuant to sections 222.46 to 222.62 shall be deposited in the rail service improvement account.

Sec. 29.

Minnesota Statutes 2013 Supplement, section 297A.815, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Motor vehicle lease sales tax revenue.

(a) For purposes of this subdivision, "net revenue" means an amount equal todeleted text begin :deleted text end

deleted text begin (1)deleted text end the revenues, including interest and penalties, collected under this section, during the fiscal year; less

deleted text begin (2) in fiscal year 2011, $30,100,000; in fiscal year 2012, $31,100,000; and in fiscal year 2013 and following fiscal years,deleted text end $32,000,000new text begin in each fiscal yearnew text end .

(b) On or before June 30 of each fiscal year, the commissioner of revenue shall estimate the amount of the deleted text begin revenues and subtraction under paragraph (a)deleted text end new text begin net revenue new text end for the current fiscal year.

(c) On or after July 1 of the subsequent fiscal year, the commissioner of management and budget shall transfer the net revenue as estimated in paragraph (b) from the general fund, as follows:

(1) $9,000,000 annually until January 1, deleted text begin 2016deleted text end new text begin 2015new text end , and 50 percent annually thereafter to the county state-aid highway fund. Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the commissioner of transportation shall allocate the funds transferred under this clause to the counties in the metropolitan area, as defined in section 473.121, subdivision 4, excluding the counties of Hennepin and Ramsey, so that each county shall receive of such amount the percentage that its population, as defined in section 477A.011, subdivision 3, estimated or established by July 15 of the year prior to the current calendar year, bears to the total population of the counties receiving funds under this clause; and

(2) the remainder to the greater Minnesota transit account.

Sec. 30.

new text begin [299A.017] STATE SAFETY OVERSIGHT. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Office created. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of public safety shall establish an Office of State Safety Oversight in the Department of Public Safety for safety oversight of rail fixed guideway public transportation systems within the state. The commissioner shall designate a director of the office. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Authority. new text end

new text begin The director shall implement and has regulatory authority to enforce the requirements for the state set forth in United States Code, title 49, sections 5329 and 5330, federal regulations adopted pursuant to those sections, and successor or supplemental requirements. new text end

Sec. 31.

new text begin [473.4056] LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT VEHICLE DESIGN. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Adoption of standards. new text end

new text begin (a) By January 1, 2015, the Metropolitan Council shall adopt and may thereafter amend standards for the design of light rail vehicles that are reasonably necessary to provide access for, and to protect the health and safety of, persons who use the service. All light rail transit vehicles procured on and after January 1, 2015, must conform to the standards then in effect. new text end

new text begin (b) The Transportation Accessibility Advisory Committee must review the standards and all subsequent amendments before the Metropolitan Council adopts them. new text end

new text begin (c) The Metropolitan Council shall post adopted standards, including amendments, on its Web site. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Minimum standards. new text end

new text begin Standards adopted under this section must include, but are not limited to: new text end

new text begin (1) two dedicated spaces for wheelchair users in each car; new text end

new text begin (2) seating for a companion adjacent to at least two wheelchair-dedicated spaces; and new text end

new text begin (3) further specifications that meet or exceed the standards established in the Americans with Disabilities Act. new text end

Sec. 32.

new text begin [473.41] TRANSIT SHELTERS AND STOPS. 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) "Transit authority" means: new text end

new text begin (1) a statutory or home rule charter city, with respect to rights-of-way at bus stop and train stop locations, transit shelters, and transit passenger seating facilities owned by the city or established pursuant to a vendor contract with the city; new text end

new text begin (2) the Metropolitan Council, with respect to transit shelters and transit passenger seating facilities owned by the council or established pursuant to a vendor contract with the council; or new text end

new text begin (3) a replacement service provider under section 473.388, with respect to rights-of-way at bus stop and train stop locations, transit shelters, and transit passenger seating facilities owned by the provider or established pursuant to a vendor contract with the provider. new text end

new text begin (c) "Transit shelter" means a wholly or partially enclosed structure provided for public use as a waiting area in conjunction with light rail transit, bus rapid transit, or regular route transit. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Design. new text end

new text begin (a) A transit authority shall establish design specifications for establishment and replacement of its transit shelters, which must include: new text end

new text begin (1) engineering standards, as appropriate; new text end

new text begin (2) maximization of protection from the wind, snow, and other elements; new text end

new text begin (3) to the extent feasible, inclusion of warming capability at each shelter in which there is a proportionally high number of transit service passenger boardings; and new text end

new text begin (4) full accessibility for the elderly and persons with disabilities. new text end

new text begin (b) The council shall consult with the Transportation Accessibility Advisory Committee. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Maintenance. new text end

new text begin A transit authority shall ensure transit shelters are maintained in good working order and are accessible to all users of the transit system. This requirement includes but is not limited to: new text end

new text begin (1) keeping transit shelters reasonably clean and free from graffiti; and new text end

new text begin (2) removing snow and ice in a manner that provides accessibility for the elderly and persons with disabilities to be able to enter and exit transit shelters, and board and exit trains at each stop. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 33.

new text begin TRANSPORTATION EFFICIENCIES. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of transportation shall include in the report under Minnesota Statutes, section 174.56, due by December 15, 2015, information on efficiencies implemented in fiscal year 2015 in planning and project management and delivery, along with an explanation of the efficiencies employed to achieve the savings and the methodology used in the calculations. The level of savings achieved must equal, in comparison with the total state road construction budget for that year, a minimum of five percent in fiscal year 2015. The report must identify the projects that have been advanced or completed due to the implementation of efficiency measures. new text end

Sec. 34.

new text begin WATERCRAFT DECONTAMINATION SITES; REST AREAS. new text end

new text begin Where feasible with existing resources, the commissioners of natural resources and transportation shall cooperate in an effort to use rest areas as sites for watercraft decontamination and other activities to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 35.

new text begin HIGHWAY 14 TURNBACK. new text end

new text begin (a) Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, sections 161.081, subdivision 3, and 161.16, or any other law to the contrary, the commissioner of transportation may: new text end

new text begin (1) by temporary order, take over the road described as "Old Highway 14" in the settlement agreement and release executed January 7, 2014, between the state and Waseca and Steele Counties; and new text end

new text begin (2) upon completion of the work described in the settlement agreement, release "Old Highway 14" back to Steele and Waseca Counties. new text end

new text begin (b) Upon completion of the work described in the settlement agreement between the state and Waseca and Steele Counties, the counties shall accept responsibility for the road described in the agreement as "Old Highway 14." new text end

Sec. 36.

new text begin EVALUATION OF CERTAIN TRUNK HIGHWAY SPEED LIMITS. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Engineering and traffic investigations. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of transportation shall perform engineering and traffic investigations on trunk highway segments that are two-lane, two-way roadways with a posted speed limit of 55 miles per hour. On determining upon the basis of the investigation that the 55 miles per hour speed limit can be reasonably and safely increased under the conditions found to exist on any of the trunk highway segments examined, the commissioner may designate an increased limit applicable to those segments and erect appropriate signs designating the speed limit. The new speed limit shall be effective when the signs are erected. Of all the roadways to be studied under this section, approximately one-fifth must be subject to investigation each year until the statewide study is complete in 2019. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Report. new text end

new text begin By January 15 annually, the commissioner shall provide to the chairs and ranking minority members of the senate and house of representatives committees with jurisdiction over transportation policy and finance a list of trunk highways or segments of trunk highways that were subject to an engineering and safety investigation in the previous calendar year, specifying in each case the applicable speed limits before and after the investigation. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment and expires on the earlier of January 15, 2019, or the date the final report is submitted to the legislative committees under this section. new text end

Sec. 37.

new text begin TASK FORCE ON MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE COVERAGE VERIFICATION. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Establishment. new text end

new text begin The task force on motor vehicle insurance coverage verification is established to review and evaluate approaches to insurance coverage verification and recommend legislation to create and fund a program in this state. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Membership; meetings; staff. new text end

new text begin (a) The task force shall be composed of 13 members, who must be appointed by July 1, 2014, and who serve at the pleasure of their appointing authorities: new text end

new text begin (1) the commissioner of public safety or a designee; new text end

new text begin (2) the commissioner of commerce or a designee; new text end

new text begin (3) two members of the house of representatives, one appointed by the speaker of the house and one appointed by the minority leader; new text end

new text begin (4) two members of the senate, one appointed by the Subcommittee on Committees of the Committee on Rules and Administration and one appointed by the minority leader; new text end

new text begin (5) a representative of Minnesota Deputy Registrars Association; new text end

new text begin (6) a representative of AAA Minnesota; new text end

new text begin (7) a representative of AARP Minnesota; new text end

new text begin (8) a representative of the Insurance Federation of Minnesota; new text end

new text begin (9) a representative of the Minnesota Bankers Association; new text end

new text begin (10) a representative of the Minnesota Bar Association; and new text end

new text begin (11) a representative of the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association. new text end

new text begin (b) Compensation and expense reimbursement must be as provided under Minnesota Statutes, section 15.059, subdivision 3, to members of the task force. new text end

new text begin (c) The commissioner of public safety shall convene the task force by August 1, 2014, and shall appoint a chair from the membership of the task force. Staffing and technical assistance must be provided by the Department of Public Safety. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Duties. new text end

new text begin The task force shall review and evaluate programs established in other states as well as programs proposed by third parties, identify one or more programs recommended for implementation in this state, and, as to the recommended programs, adopt findings concerning: new text end

new text begin (1) comparative costs of programs; new text end

new text begin (2) implementation considerations, and in particular, identifying the appropriate supervising agency and assessing compatibility with existing and planned computer systems; new text end

new text begin (3) effectiveness in verifying existence of motor vehicle insurance coverage; new text end

new text begin (4) identification of categories of authorized users; new text end

new text begin (5) simplicity of access and use for authorized users; new text end

new text begin (6) data privacy considerations; new text end

new text begin (7) data retention policies; and new text end

new text begin (8) statutory changes necessary for implementation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Report. new text end

new text begin By February 1, 2015, the task force must submit to the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate committees and divisions with primary jurisdiction over commerce and transportation its written recommendations, including any draft legislation necessary to implement the recommendations. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Sunset. new text end

new text begin The task force shall sunset the day after submitting the report under subdivision 4, or February 2, 2015, whichever is earlier. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment. new text end

Sec. 38.

new text begin COMMUNITY DESTINATION SIGN PILOT PROGRAM. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Definition. 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) "City" means the city of Two Harbors. new text end

new text begin (c) "General retail services" means a business that sells goods or services (1) at retail and directly to an end-use consumer, and (2) that are of interest to tourists or the traveling public. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Pilot program established. new text end

new text begin (a) In consultation with the city of Two Harbors, the commissioner of transportation shall establish a community destination sign pilot program for wayfinding within the city to destinations or attractions of interest to the traveling public. new text end

new text begin (b) For purposes of Minnesota Statutes, chapter 173, signs under the pilot program are official signs. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Signage, design. new text end

new text begin (a) The pilot program must include as eligible attractions and destinations: new text end

new text begin (1) minor traffic generators; and new text end

new text begin (2) general retail services, specified by business name, that are identified in a community wayfinding program established by the city. new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner of transportation, in coordination with the city, may establish sign design specifications for signs under the pilot program. Design specifications must allow for placement of: new text end

new text begin (1) a city name and city logo or symbol; and new text end

new text begin (2) up to five attractions or destinations on a community destination sign assembly. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Program costs. new text end

new text begin The city shall pay costs of design, construction, erection, and maintenance of the signs and sign assemblies under the pilot program. The commissioner shall not impose fees for the pilot program. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Pilot program evaluation. new text end

new text begin In coordination with the city, the commissioner of transportation shall evaluate effectiveness of the pilot program under this section, which must include analysis of traffic safety impacts, utility to motorists and tourists, costs and expenditures, extent of community support, and pilot program termination or continuation. By January 15, 2021, the commissioner shall submit a report on the evaluation to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over transportation policy and finance. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Expiration. new text end

new text begin The pilot program under this section expires January 1, 2022. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day after the governing body of the city of Two Harbors and its chief clerical officer timely complete their compliance with Minnesota Statutes, section 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3. new text end

Sec. 39.

new text begin TRANSIT SERVICE ON ELECTION DAY. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Operating assistance recipients. new text end

new text begin An eligible recipient of operating assistance under Minnesota Statutes, section 174.24, who contracts or has contracted to provide fixed route public transit shall provide fixed route public transit service free of charge on a day a state general election is held. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Metropolitan Council. new text end

new text begin (a) The Metropolitan Council shall provide regular route transit, as defined under Minnesota Statutes, section 473.385, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), free of charge on a day a state general election is held. new text end

new text begin (b) The requirements under this subdivision apply to operators of regular route transit (1) receiving financial assistance under Minnesota Statutes, section 473.388, or (2) operating under Minnesota Statutes, section 473.405, subdivision 12. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective July 1, 2014, and expires November 5, 2014. new text end

ARTICLE 12

AGRICULTURE, ENVIRONMENT, AND NATURAL RESOURCES APPROPRIATIONS

Section 1.

new text begin SUMMARY OF 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 -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 10,756,000 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 10,756,000 new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 650,000 new text end new text begin 650,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 900,000 new text end new text begin 900,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 2,412,000 new text end new text begin 2,412,000 new text end
new text begin Environment and Natural Resources Trust new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 490,000 new text end new text begin 490,000 new text end
new text begin Parks and Trails new text end new text begin 530,000 new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 530,000 new text end
new text begin Environmental new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 4,000,000 new text end new text begin 4,000,000 new text end
new text begin Total new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 530,000 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 19,208,000 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 19,738,000 new text end

Sec. 2.

new text begin APPROPRIATIONS. new text end

new text begin The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are added to the appropriations in Laws 2013, chapter 114, or 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 year indicated for each purpose. The figures "2014" and "2015" used in this article means that the addition to the appropriations listed under them are available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, or June 30, 2015, respectively. Appropriations for fiscal year 2014 are effective the day following final enactment. 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 AGRICULTURE. new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 2,750,000 new text end

new text begin $2,000,000 in 2015 is for a grant to Second Harvest Heartland on behalf of the six Feeding America food banks that serve Minnesota to compensate agricultural producers and processors for costs incurred to harvest and package for transfer surplus fruits, vegetables, or other agricultural commodities that would otherwise go unharvested or be discarded. Surplus commodities must be distributed statewide to food shelves and other charitable organizations that are eligible to receive food from the food banks. Surplus food acquired under this appropriation must be from Minnesota producers and processors. Second Harvest Heartland must report when required by, and in the form prescribed by, the commissioner. For fiscal year 2015, Second Harvest Heartland may use up to 11 percent of any grant received for administrative expenses. For fiscal years 2016 and 2017, Second Harvest Heartland may use up to five percent of any grant received for administrative expenses. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

new text begin The commissioner shall examine how other states are implementing the industrial hemp research authority provided in Public Law 113-79 and gauge the interest of Minnesota higher education institutions. No later than January 15, 2015, the commissioner must report the information and items for legislative consideration to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over agriculture policy and finance. new text end

new text begin $350,000 in 2015 is for an increase in retail food handler inspections. new text end

new text begin $200,000 in 2015 is added to the appropriation in Laws 2013, chapter 114, article 1, section 3, subdivision 4, for distribution to the state's county fairs. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $200,000 in 2015 is for a grant as determined by the commissioner to a public higher education institution to research porcine epidemic diarrhea virus. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

Sec. 4.

new text begin BOARD OF ANIMAL HEALTH new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin 310,000 new text end

new text begin $310,000 in 2015 is to administer the dog and cat breeder licensing and inspection program. The base in fiscal year 2016 is $426,000 and the base in fiscal year 2017 is $435,000. new text end

Sec. 5.

new text begin POLLUTION CONTROL AGENCY new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 4,650,000 new text end
new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin Remediation new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 650,000 new text end
new text begin Environmental new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 4,000,000 new text end

new text begin $650,000 in 2015 from the remediation fund for additional staff and administrative expenses to manage and oversee investigation and mitigation efforts at superfund sites. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin The agency shall compile information on the presence of plastic microbeads in the state's waters and their potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems and human health, in consultation with the University of Minnesota. No later than December 15, 2014, the commissioner must present the information to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources policy and finance and make recommendations. new text end

new text begin $4,000,000 in 2015 is from the environmental fund for the purposes of Minnesota Statutes, section 115A.557, subdivision 2. $3,000,000 per year from the environmental fund is added to the base. new text end

Sec. 6.

new text begin NATURAL RESOURCES 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 530,000 new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 5,862,000 new text end
new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 3,000,000 new text end
new text begin Game and Fish new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 2,412,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 450,000 new text end
new text begin Parks and Trails new text end new text begin 530,000 new text end new text begin -0- 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 Lands and Minerals new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 1,000,000 new text end

new text begin $1,000,000 in 2015 is for meeting the state's fiduciary duty to Minnesota children with regard to school trust land. By January 15, 2015, the commissioner, in consultation with the commissioner of education, shall submit a report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the senate and house of representatives committees with jurisdiction over natural resources and education policy and finance on the intended use of these funds. The legislature must approve expenditures of these funds by law. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Ecological and Water Resources new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 50,000 new text end

new text begin $50,000 in 2015 is for a study of the effects of the Lake Emily dam in Crow Wing County on water clarity and water levels in Lake Emily, Lake Mary, and the Little Pine River. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Parks and Trails Management new text end

new text begin 530,000 new text end new text begin 2,400,000 new text end
new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 1,950,000 new text end
new text begin Natural Resources new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 450,000 new text end
new text begin Parks and Trails new text end new text begin 530,000 new text end new text begin -0- new text end

new text begin $1,600,000 in 2015 is for the improvement, maintenance, and conditions of facilities and infrastructure in state parks for safety and general use. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $450,000 in 2015 is from the natural resources fund for state trail, park, and recreation area operations. This appropriation is from the revenue deposited in the natural resources fund under Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94, paragraph (e), clause (2). This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $200,000 in 2014 is from the parks and trails fund for the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission to develop a statewide system plan for regional parks and trails outside the seven-county metropolitan area. This is a onetime appropriation and is subject to the availability of appropriations in Laws 2013, chapter 137, article 3, section 2, subdivision 2. new text end

new text begin $330,000 in 2014 is from the parks and trails fund for a grant to St. Louis and Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority for planning, engineering, right-of-way acquisition, or construction of portions of the Mesabi Trail in the corridor from Giants Ridge to Tower. This is a onetime appropriation and is subject to the availability of appropriations in Laws 2013, chapter 137, article 3, section 2, subdivision 2. new text end

new text begin $350,000 in 2015 is for the development of the segment of the Willard Munger Trail system that originates in Chisago County and extends into Hinckley in Pine County, to be named the James L. Oberstar Trail. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until spent. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Fish and Wildlife Management new text end

new text begin -0- new text end new text begin 2,412,000 new text end

new text begin $3,000 in 2015 is from the heritage enhancement account in the game and fish fund for a report on aquatic plant management permitting policies for the management of narrow-leaved and hybrid cattail in a range of basin types across the state. The report shall be submitted to the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources by December 15, 2014, and include recommendations for any necessary changes in statutes, rules, or permitting procedures. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $9,000 in 2015 is from the game and fish fund for the commissioner, in consultation with interested parties, agencies, and other states, to develop a detailed restoration plan to recover the historical native population of bobwhite quail in Minnesota for its ecological and recreational benefits to the citizens of the state. The commissioner shall conduct public meetings in developing the plan. No later than January 15, 2015, the commissioner must report on the plan's progress to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources policy and finance. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $2,000,000 in 2015 is from the game and fish fund for shooting sports facility grants under Minnesota Statutes, section 87A.10. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

new text begin $400,000 in 2015 is from the heritage enhancement account in the game and fish fund for grants to local chapters of Let's Go Fishing of Minnesota to provide community outreach to senior citizens, youth, and veterans and for the costs associated with establishing and recruiting new chapters. The grants must be matched with cash or in-kind contributions from nonstate sources. Of this amount, $25,000 is for Asian Outdoor Heritage for youth fishing recruitment efforts and outreach in the metropolitan area. The commissioner shall establish a grant application process that includes a standard for ownership of equipment purchased under the grant program and contract requirements that cover the disposition of purchased equipment if the grantee no longer exists. Any equipment purchased with state grant money must be specified on the grant application and approved by the commissioner. The commissioner may spend up to three percent of the appropriation to administer the grant. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2016. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Parks and trails fund cancellation new text end

new text begin The appropriation for $530,000 from the parks and trails fund for trail improvements on the Duluth Cross City West Trail and the Superior Hiking Trail in St. Louis County in Laws 2013, chapter 137, article 3, section 3, paragraph (c), clause (12), is canceled. new text end

Sec. 7.

new text begin METROPOLITAN COUNCIL new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 525,000 new text end

new text begin $450,000 in 2015 is from the natural resources fund for metropolitan area regional parks and trails maintenance and operations. This appropriation is from the revenue deposited in the natural resources fund under Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94, paragraph (e), clause (3). This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

new text begin $75,000 in 2015 is for a grant to the city of Shoreview for a feasibility study regarding the lowering of the water level of Turtle Lake and the possible effects of an augmentation of the lake. This is a onetime appropriation. new text end

Sec. 8.

new text begin UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 4,890,000 new text end
new text begin Appropriations by Fund new text end
new text begin General new text end new text begin 4,400,000 new text end
new text begin Environment and Natural Resources Trust new text end new text begin 490,000 new text end

new text begin $3,400,000 in 2015 is from the general fund for the Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center requested under this act, including a director, graduate students, and necessary supplies. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2022. new text end

new text begin $490,000 in 2015 is from the environment and natural resources trust fund for the Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center requested under this act, including a director, graduate students, and necessary supplies. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2022. new text end

new text begin $970,000 from the environment and natural resources trust fund appropriated in Laws 2011, First Special Session chapter 2, article 3, section 2, subdivision 9, paragraph (d), Reinvest in Minnesota Wetlands Reserve Acquisition and Restoration Program Partnership, is transferred to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota for the Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center requested under this act, including a director, graduate students, and necessary supplies and is available until June 30, 2022. new text end

new text begin $1,000,000 in 2015 is for the Forever Green Agricultural Initiative and to protect the state's natural resources while increasing efficiency, profitability, and productivity of Minnesota farmers by incorporating perennial and winter annual crops into existing agricultural practices. By January 15, 2015, as a condition of this appropriation, the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota shall submit a report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate policy and finance committees with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources and agriculture on the activities and outcomes of the Forever Green Agricultural Initiative. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2017. new text end

Sec. 9.

new text begin ADMINISTRATION new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 185,000 new text end

new text begin $185,000 in 2015 is for activities and the administrative expenses of the school trust lands director and additional staff, under Minnesota Statutes, section 127A.353. new text end

Sec. 10.

new text begin LEGISLATIVE COORDINATING COMMISSION new text end

new text begin $ new text end new text begin -0- new text end new text begin $ new text end new text begin 15,000 new text end

new text begin $15,000 in 2015 is for the administrative expenses of the Permanent School Fund Commission under Minnesota Statutes, section 127A.30, and for compensation and expense reimbursement of commission members. new text end

Sec. 11.

Laws 2013, chapter 114, article 3, section 3, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Remediation Fund

The commissioner shall transfer up to deleted text begin $46,000,000deleted text end new text begin $47,150,000new text end from the environmental fund to the remediation fund for the purposes of the remediation fund under Minnesota Statutes, section 116.155, subdivision 2.

Sec. 12.

Laws 2013, chapter 114, article 3, section 4, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Ecological and Water Resources

27,182,000 deleted text begin 31,582,000 deleted text end
new text begin 31,603,000 new text end
Appropriations by Fund
General 12,117,000 deleted text begin 16,817,000 deleted text end
new text begin 16,838,000 new text end
Natural Resources 11,002,000 10,702,000
Game and Fish 4,063,000 4,063,000

$3,542,000 the first year and $3,242,000 the second year are from the invasive species account in the natural resources fund and $2,906,000 the first year and $3,206,000 the second year are from the general fund for management, public awareness, assessment and monitoring research, and water access inspection to prevent the spread of invasive species; management of invasive plants in public waters; and management of terrestrial invasive species on state-administered lands.

$5,000,000 the first year and $5,000,000 the second year are from the water management account in the natural resources fund for only the purposes specified in Minnesota Statutes, section 103G.27, subdivision 2.

$103,000 the first year and deleted text begin $103,000deleted text end new text begin $124,000new text end the second year are for a grant to the Mississippi Headwaters Board for up to 50 percent of the cost of implementing the comprehensive plan for the upper Mississippi within areas under the board's jurisdiction.new text begin The base for this grant in fiscal year 2016 and later is $103,000. By January 15, 2015, the board shall submit a report detailing the results achieved with the fiscal year 2014 appropriation and the anticipated results that will be achieved with the fiscal year 2015 appropriation to the commissioner and the chairs and ranking minority members of the senate and house of representatives committees and divisions with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources policy and finance.new text end

$10,000 the first year and $10,000 the second year are for payment to the Leech Lake Band of Chippewa Indians to implement the band's portion of the comprehensive plan for the upper Mississippi.

$264,000 the first year and $264,000 the second year are for grants for up to 50 percent of the cost of implementation of the Red River mediation agreement. The commissioner shall submit a report to the chairs of the legislative committees having primary jurisdiction over environment and natural resources policy and finance on the accomplishments achieved with the grants by January 15, 2015.

$1,643,000 the first year and $1,643,000 the second year are from the heritage enhancement account in the game and fish fund for only the purposes specified in Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.94, paragraph (e), clause (1).

$1,223,000 the first year and $1,223,000 the second year are from the nongame wildlife management account in the natural resources fund for the purpose of nongame wildlife management. Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 290.431, $100,000 the first year and $100,000 the second year may be used for nongame wildlife information, education, and promotion.

$1,600,000 the first year and $6,000,000 the second year are from the general fund for the following activities:

(1) increased financial reimbursement and technical support to soil and water conservation districts or other local units of government for groundwater level monitoring;

(2) additional surface water monitoring and analysis, including installation of monitoring gauges;

(3) additional groundwater analysis to assist with water appropriation permitting decisions;

(4) additional permit application review incorporating surface water and groundwater technical analysis;

(5) enhancement of precipitation data and analysis to improve the use of irrigation;

(6) enhanced information technology, including electronic permitting and integrated data systems; and

(7) increased compliance and monitoring.

Of this amount, $600,000 the first year is for silica sand rulemaking and is available until spent.

The commissioner, in cooperation with the commissioner of agriculture, shall enforce compliance with aquatic plant management requirements regulating the control of aquatic plants with pesticides and removal of aquatic plants by mechanical means under Minnesota Statutes, section 103G.615.

ARTICLE 13

AGRICULTURE, ENVIRONMENT, AND NATURAL RESOURCES FISCAL IMPLEMENTATION PROVISIONS

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 13.643, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Animal premises data.

(a) The following data collected and maintained by the Board of Animal Health related to registration and identification of premises and animals under chapter 35, are classified as private or nonpublic:

(1) the names and addresses;

(2) the location of the premises where animals are kept; and

(3) the identification number of the premises or the animal.

new text begin (b) Except as provided in section 347.58, subdivision 5, data collected and maintained by the Board of Animal Health under sections 347.57 to 347.64 are classified as private or nonpublic. new text end

deleted text begin (b)deleted text end new text begin (c)new text end The Board of Animal Health may disclose data collected under paragraph (a)new text begin or (b)new text end to any person, agency, or to the public if the board determines that the access will aid in the law enforcement process or the protection of public or animal health or safety.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 16A.125, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Forest trust lands.

(a) The term "state forest trust fund lands" as used in this subdivision, means public land in trust under the Constitution set apart as "forest lands under the authority of the commissioner" of natural resources as defined by section 89.001, subdivision 13.

(b) The commissioner of management and budget shall credit the revenue from the forest trust fund lands to the forest suspense account. The account must specify the trust funds interested in the lands and the respective receipts of the lands.

(c) After a fiscal year, the commissioner of management and budget shall certify the costs incurred for forestry during that year under appropriations for the improvement, administration, and management of state forest trust fund lands and construction and improvement of forest roads to enhance the forest value of the lands. The certificate must specify the trust funds interested in the lands. After presentation to the Legislative Permanent School Fund Commission, the commissioner of natural resources shall supply the commissioner of management and budget with the information needed for the certificate. The certificate shall include an analysis that compares costs certified under this section with costs incurred on other public and private lands with similar land assets.

(d) After a fiscal year, the commissioner shall distribute the receipts credited to the suspense account during that fiscal year as follows:

(1) the amount of the certified costs incurred by the state for forest management, forest improvement, and road improvement during the fiscal year shall be transferred to the forest management investment account established under section 89.039;

(2) new text begin the amount of costs incurred by the Legislative Permanent School Fund Commission under section 127A.30, and by the school trust lands director under section 127A.353, shall be transferred to the general fund;new text end

new text begin (3) new text end the balance of the certified costs incurred by the state during the fiscal year shall be transferred to the general fund; and

deleted text begin (3)deleted text end new text begin (4)new text end the balance of the receipts shall then be returned prorated to the trust funds in proportion to their respective interests in the lands which produced the receipts.

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 1c. new text end

new text begin Apiary. new text end

new text begin "Apiary" means a place where a collection of one or more hives or colonies of bees or the nuclei of bees are kept. new text end

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 2a. new text end

new text begin Bee. new text end

new text begin "Bee" means any stage of the common honeybee, Apis mellifera (L). new text end

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 2b. new text end

new text begin Bee owner. new text end

new text begin "Bee owner" means a person who owns an apiary. new text end

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 4c. new text end

new text begin Colony. new text end

new text begin "Colony" means the aggregate of worker bees, drones, the queen, and developing young bees living together as a family unit in a hive or other dwelling. new text end

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 11a. new text end

new text begin Hive. new text end

new text begin "Hive" means a frame hive, box hive, box, barrel, log gum, skep, or any other receptacle or container, natural or artificial, or any part of one, which is used as domicile for bees. new text end

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 20a. new text end

new text begin Pollinator. new text end

new text begin "Pollinator" means an insect that pollinates flowers. new text end

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Pollinator enforcement. new text end

new text begin The commissioner may take enforcement action under chapter 18D for a violation of this chapter, or any rule adopted under this chapter, that results in harm to pollinators, including but not limited to applying a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with the pesticide product's label or labeling and resulting in pollinator death or willfully applying pesticide in a manner inconsistent with the pesticide product's label or labeling. The commissioner must deposit any penalty collected under this subdivision in the pesticide regulatory account in section 18B.05. new text end

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 18B.04, is amended to read:

18B.04 PESTICIDE IMPACT ON ENVIRONMENT.

new text begin (a) new text end The commissioner shall:

(1) determine the impact of pesticides on the environment, including the impacts on surface water and groundwater in this state;

(2) develop best management practices involving pesticide distribution, storage, handling, use, and disposal; and

(3) cooperate with and assist other state agencies and local governments to protect public healthnew text begin , pollinators,new text end and the environment from harmful exposure to pesticides.

new text begin (b) The commissioner may assemble a group of experts under section 16C.10, subdivision 2, to consult in the investigation of pollinator deaths or illnesses. The group of experts may include representatives from local, state, and federal agencies; academia, including the University of Minnesota; the state pollinator bank; or other professionals as deemed necessary by the commissioner. The amount necessary for the purposes of this paragraph, not to exceed $100,000 per fiscal year, is appropriated from the pesticide regulatory account in section 18B.05. new text end

Sec. 11.

new text begin [18B.055] COMPENSATION FOR BEES KILLED BY PESTICIDE; APPROPRIATION. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Compensation required. new text end

new text begin (a) The commissioner of agriculture must compensate a person for an acute pesticide poisoning resulting in the death of bees or loss of bee colonies owned by the person, provided: new text end

new text begin (1) the person who applied the pesticide cannot be determined; new text end

new text begin (2) the person who applied the pesticide did so in a manner consistent with the pesticide product's label or labeling; or new text end

new text begin (3) the person who applied the pesticide did so in a manner inconsistent with the pesticide product's label or labeling. new text end

new text begin (b) Except as provided in this section, the bee owner is entitled to the fair market value of the dead bees and bee colonies losses as determined by the commissioner upon recommendation by academic experts and bee keepers. In any fiscal year, a bee owner must not be compensated for a claim that is less than $100 or compensated more than $20,000 for all eligible claims. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Applicator responsible. new text end

new text begin In the event a person applies a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with the pesticide product's label or labeling requirements as approved by the commissioner and is determined to have caused the acute pesticide poisoning of bees, resulting in death or loss of a bee colony kept for commercial purposes, then the person so identified must bear the responsibility of restitution for the value of the bees to the owner. In these cases the commissioner must not provide compensation as provided in this section. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Claim form. new text end

new text begin The bee owner must file a claim on forms provided by the commissioner and available on the Department of Agriculture's Web site. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Determination. new text end

new text begin The commissioner must determine whether the death of the bees or loss of bee colonies was caused by an acute pesticide poisoning, whether the pesticide applicator can be determined, and whether the pesticide applicator applied the pesticide product in a manner consistent with the pesticide product's label or labeling. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Payments; denial of compensation. new text end

new text begin (a) If the commissioner determines the bee death or loss of bee colony was caused by an acute pesticide poisoning and either the pesticide applicator cannot be determined or the pesticide applicator applied the pesticide product in a manner consistent with the pesticide product's label or labeling, the commissioner may award compensation from the pesticide regulatory account. If the pesticide applicator can be determined and the applicator applied the pesticide product in a manner inconsistent with the product's label or labeling, the commissioner may collect a penalty from the pesticide applicator sufficient to compensate the bee owner for the fair market value of the dead bees and bee colonies losses, and must award the money to the bee owner. new text end

new text begin (b) If the commissioner denies compensation claimed by a bee owner under this section, the commissioner must issue a written decision based upon the available evidence. The decision must include specification of the facts upon which the decision is based and the conclusions on the material issues of the claim. The commissioner must mail a copy of the decision to the bee owner. new text end

new text begin (c) A decision to deny compensation claimed under this section is not subject to the contested case review procedures of chapter 14, but may be reviewed upon a trial de novo in a court in the county where the loss occurred. The decision of the court may be appealed as in other civil cases. Review in court may be obtained by filing a petition for review with the administrator of the court within 60 days following receipt of a decision under this section. Upon the filing of a petition, the administrator must mail a copy to the commissioner and set a time for hearing within 90 days of the filing. new text end

new text begin Subd. 6. new text end

new text begin Deduction from payment. new text end

new text begin The commissioner must reduce payments made under this section by any compensation received by the bee owner for dead bees and bee colonies losses as proceeds from an insurance policy or from another source. new text end

new text begin Subd. 7. new text end

new text begin Appropriation. new text end

new text begin The amount necessary to pay claims under this section, not to exceed $150,000 per fiscal year, is appropriated from the pesticide regulatory account in section 18B.05. new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective July 1, 2014, and applies to bee kills and bee colony losses attributable to acute pesticide poisoning that occur on or after that date. new text end

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 84.788, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Exemptions.

Registration is not required for off-highway motorcycles:

(1) owned and used by the United States, an Indian tribal government, the state, another state, or a political subdivision;

(2) registered in another state or country that have not been within this state for more than 30 consecutive days;deleted text begin ordeleted text end

(3) registered under chapter 168, when operated on forest roads to gain access to a state forest campgroundnew text begin ;new text end

new text begin (4) used exclusively in organized track racing events; new text end

new text begin (5) operated on state or grant-in-aid trails by a nonresident possessing a nonresident off-highway motorcycle state trail pass; or new text end

new text begin (6) operated by a person participating in an event for which the commissioner has issued a special use permitnew text end .

Sec. 13.

new text begin [84.7945] NONRESIDENT OFF-HIGHWAY MOTORCYCLE STATE TRAIL PASS. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Pass required; fee. new text end

new text begin (a) A tribal member exempt from registration under section 84.788, subdivision 2, clause (2), or a nonresident, may not operate an off-highway motorcycle on a state or grant-in-aid off-highway motorcycle trail unless the operator carries a valid nonresident off-highway motorcycle state trail pass in immediate possession. The pass must be available for inspection by a peace officer, a conservation officer, or an employee designated under section 84.0835. new text end

new text begin (b) The commissioner of natural resources shall issue a pass upon application and payment of a $20 fee. The pass is valid from January 1 through December 31. Fees collected under this section, except for the issuing fee for licensing agents, shall be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the off-highway motorcycle account in the natural resources fund and, except for the electronic licensing system commission established by the commissioner under section 84.027, subdivision 15, must be used for grants-in-aid to counties and municipalities for off-highway motorcycle organizations to construct and maintain off-highway motorcycle trails and use areas. new text end

new text begin (c) A nonresident off-highway motorcycle state trail pass is not required for: new text end

new text begin (1) an off-highway motorcycle that is owned and used by the United States, another state, or a political subdivision thereof that is exempt from registration under section 84.788, subdivision 2; new text end

new text begin (2) a person operating an off-highway motorcycle only on the portion of a trail that is owned by the person or the person's spouse, child, or parent; or new text end

new text begin (3) a nonresident operating an off-highway motorcycle that is registered according to section 84.788. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin License agents. new text end

new text begin The commissioner may appoint agents to issue and sell nonresident off-highway motorcycle state trail passes. The commissioner may revoke the appointment of an agent at any time. The commissioner may adopt additional rules as provided in section 97A.485, subdivision 11. An agent shall observe all rules adopted by the commissioner for accounting and handling of passes pursuant to section 97A.485, subdivision 11. An agent shall promptly deposit and remit all money received from the sale of the passes, exclusive of the issuing fee, to the commissioner. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Issuance of passes. new text end

new text begin The commissioner and agents shall issue and sell nonresident off-highway motorcycle state trail passes. The commissioner shall also make the passes available through the electronic licensing system established under section 84.027, subdivision 15. new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Agent's fee. new text end

new text begin In addition to the fee for a pass, an issuing fee of $1 per pass shall be charged. The issuing fee may be retained by the seller of the pass. Issuing fees for passes issued by the commissioner shall be deposited in the off-highway motorcycle account in the natural resources fund and retained for the operation of the electronic licensing system. new text end

new text begin Subd. 5. new text end

new text begin Duplicate passes. new text end

new text begin The commissioner and agents shall issue a duplicate pass to persons whose pass is lost or destroyed using the process established under section 97A.405, subdivision 3, and rules adopted thereunder. The fee for a duplicate nonresident off-highway motorcycle state trail pass is $2, with an issuing fee of 50 cents. new text end

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85.053, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Requirement.

Except as provided in section 85.054, a motor vehicle may not enter a state park, state recreation area, or state wayside over 50 acres in area, without a state park permit issued under this sectionnew text begin or a state parks and trails plate issued under section 168.1295new text end . Except for vehicles permitted under subdivisions 7, paragraph (a), clause (2), and 8, the state park permit must be affixed to the lower right corner windshield of the motor vehicle and must be completely affixed by its own adhesive to the windshield, or the commissioner may, by written order, provide an alternative means to display and validate state park permits.

Sec. 15.

new text begin [85.056] STATE PARKS AND TRAILS DONATION ACCOUNT. new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Establishment. new text end

new text begin The state parks and trails donation account is established as a separate account in the natural resources fund. The account shall be administered by the commissioner of natural resources as provided in this section. new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Funding sources. new text end

new text begin The state parks and trails donation account shall consist of contributions made under section 168.1295 and other contributions. The contributions may be made in cash, property, land, or interests in land. new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Uses. new text end

new text begin Money in the account is appropriated to the commissioner of natural resources to operate and maintain the state parks and trails system. new text end

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85.34, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Disposition of proceeds.

(a) All revenue derived from the lease of the Fort Snelling upper bluff, with the exception of payment for costs of the water line as described in subdivision 6, shall be deposited in the natural resources fund and credited to a state park account.new text begin Interest earned on the money in the account accrues to the account.new text end

(b) Revenue and expenses from the upper bluff shall be tracked separately within the account. Money in the account derived from the leasing or operation of the property described in subdivision 1 deleted text begin may bedeleted text end new text begin isnew text end appropriated new text begin annually to the commissioner new text end for the payment of expenses attributable to the leasingnew text begin , development,new text end and operation of the property described in subdivision 1, including, but not limited to, the maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation of historic buildings and landscapes.

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2012, section 85A.02, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Zoological Garden.

The board shall acquire, construct, equip, operate and maintain the Minnesota Zoological Garden at a site in Dakota County legally described in Laws 1975, chapter 382, section 12. The Zoological Garden shall consist of adequate facilities and structures for the collection, habitation, preservation, care, exhibition, examination or study of wild and domestic animals, including, but not limited to mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles, crustaceans and mollusks. The board may provide such lands, buildings and equipment as it deems necessary for parking, transportation, entertainment, education or instruction of the public in connection with such Zoological Garden.new text begin The Zoological Garden is an official pollinator bank for the state of Minnesota. For purposes of this subdivision, "pollinator bank" means a program to avert the extinction of pollinator species by cultivating insurance breeding populations.new text end

Sec. 18.

new text begin [87A.10] TRAP SHOOTING SPORTS FACILITY GRANTS. new text end

new text begin The commissioner of natural resources shall administer a program to provide cost-share grants to local recreational shooting clubs for up to 50 percent of the costs of developing or rehabilitating trap shooting sports facilities for pu