The Next Round of Session Begins In... 

What will be taken from your wallet after the clock runs out?

Map of HD50A

May 6, 2009 Legislative Report #63

Proof Leadership Replacement Needed

As I scoured the media content today seeking relevant, real news, I stumbled across a *Start Tribune Article from Reporter Mark Brunswick, “Mulch ado about nothing? Dog bill gets long debate”. Though the content of this bill highlights the current insanity exibited by our elected leadership, I appreciate Mark’s willingness to report on a real story, Why is this bill even having a hearing.

In previous reports on our website here, I state we need legislative change in the capital. This bill, **HF 1306, introduced by Frank Hornstein (DFL) District: 60B, exposes the contempt elected leaders have for the OATH they took to uphold the constitution of Minnesota.

I contended during the 2008 campaign, the citizens of our state desperately want someone who truly represents sanity at the capital, someone actually upholding the constitution and Rule of Law. Thus the reason I continue campaigning and seek voter support in HD 50-A in 2010, and support financial from around the country. The position I take is nonpartisan as folks from all lifestyles recognize our state is out of control. An example is from a Democrat who commented on the *Star Tribune story

 I am an embarrassed DFLer; The idea for labeling the packaging should have brought to the venders of cocoa bean shells. We've got too many laws and too many bills any year and, frankly, too many pet dogs. As a DFLer, I am embarrassed by many of my Party's Representatives - the ones who supported this bill. May it be vetoed.

posted by Morecamb on May. 5, 09 at 10:43 PM | 

43 of 54 people liked this comment. Do you?     

*http://www.startribune.com/politics/state/44419057.html

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H1306.1.html&session=ls86

April 28, 2009: Legislative Report #62

Environmental Responsibility The Cloak For Dictatorship  

*HF #898 draft four, may sound like a great plan to folks concerned with our environment and Mother Earth. I also care about our environment, yet HF 898, authored by 13 democrats, Hornstein ; Liebling ; Brynaert ; Hansen ; Nelson ; Bigham ; Ruud ; Persell ; Tillberry ; Murphy, E. ; Kahn ; Hayden ; Newton  is not about environment. The bill, and please take the time to read this bill, is about controlled design of communities, restricting free choice of Americans, changing natural community development, controlling travel and freedom of movement, and placing unconstitutional powers of society into the hands of a small group of people.

HF #898 uses the environmental desire for responsibility of Mother Earth to camouflage State imperialistic efforts to desensitize adherence to our “Constitutional Rule of Law”. The result becomes an unbridled police state, dictating every aspect of individual’s lives, and suffocating liberty for the benefit of unaccountable powers. Every Pandora’s Box when opened provides unlimited justification for stealing liberty. Remember, when reading the bill, strikethrough intended to delete language and underline intended to be new law.

*https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0898.4.html&session=ls86

April 28, 2009: Legislative Report #61

Bills + The Constitution = Order 

As we conclude the 2009 session I realize how little effort our elected officials concern themselves with our state constitution. With all the bills introduced for a variety of justifications, we need change. Legitimate change to follow Constitutional Law not the flowery campaign change of the 2008 election. When elected in 2010, I intend introducing a bill requiring ever-proposed bill introduced by a legislator have a notation on where the bill originates the authority within our constitution. I would expect the concept meet resistance, which is where citizens engage legislative leaders to follow the rule of law. Fun and challenging times are waiting after the 2010 election.

April 27, 2009: Legislative Report #60

A Foolish February Forecast  

According to forecast annalists, the revised *Minnesota February forecast, page 34, an additional 48,000 Minnesota jobs are expected lost from 1/1/09 through the spring 2010. Minnesota lost **57,200 jobs in the first quarter in 2009. This means, to keep on track with the February 09 forecast, of having a $6,400,000,000.00 budget shortfall in 2010-2011, Minnesota has to regain 9,200 statewide jobs in April 2009, and maintain that employment level for the next 12 months. Conclusion; the February forecast could not possibly meet any resemblance of reality.  

Our leaders, during this 2009 session, continue at the State Capital making catastrophic funding decisions that could bankrupt the state based on the February forecast. Massive increases in taxes, government regulation, and intervention in the private sector, including historic expansion of state government, and billions in bonding. State legislators are a group, out of touch with reality, out of control and indifferent to the Minnesota Constitution.  

Elected leaders making decisions on a forecast just 2 months old and already horribly flawed. I am not a rocket scientist, I do not have a list of PhD’s, but I only needed an hour of time on the internet looking at statistics and documents on Minnesota state websites. The truth is available if our elected leaders would just look; apparently, they have no need to.

I see the disaster approaching, an inevitable economic train wreck. Yet our elected leaders, including Carolyn Laine, stand up and continue assuring Minnesota, they have the solutions. As I stated during the 2008 election, Minnesota budget is billions in the red. I further see an erosion of state revenue to the tune of 10-12 billion shortfalls in the November 2009 forecast.

*http://www.mmb.state.mn.us/doc/fu/09/complete-feb09.pdf  

**http://www.deed.state.mn.us/news/release/index.htm#LMI

April 24, 2009: Legislative Report #59 

Shifting 

As I continue, searching the bills introduced this legislative session, a trend emerges. I call the trend SHIFTING, when legislative leaders introduce a bill that strips resources, or funding from an existing government entity, reallocating said funds to another government entity. From the information I can gather, an example of this practice is *House File 2155, introduced by Representative Bob Gunther (R) District: 24A. The bill takes revenue generated from the state taxing of garbage services. Currently, the garbage tax revenue deposited into a fund called an environmental fund. 

Currently about $25,000,000.00 annually is siphoned by the state and placed into the general fund, never seen again for the purpose collected from you. The balance, about $50,000,000.00 annually, distributed between the county and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. This bill would divert any current funds directed to the PCA to the counties, helping counties balance projected shortfalls. 

Confused, so are many others. What tangled webs our leadership has spun attempting to keep all the voices at the state capital appeased. Thus the need to replace most of our current leadership with folks willing to change the direction of Minnesota government, follow the constitution and keep government limited to her constitutional purpose. 

*https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2155.0.html&session=ls86

April 23, 2009: Legislative Report #58

2014 A Popular Year

A very disturbing trend is emerging in many bills introduced and or modified in the 2009 legislative session. Many appropriation bills, along with increased department funding bills, and bills expanding state government have an effective date of revenue year 2014 and later. My conclusion is, our current leadership, including Carolyn Laine, is intending to pass many laws in 2009 costing Billions of additional state tax increases after 2013. If the bills pass as written, Minnesotans are subject to untold, restrictions on personal liberties, and on the hook with billions of new taxes after 2013.  Even more insidious is how leadership incorporates bills together so no one legislature worries of being singled out for passing bad legislation. Carolyn Laine will come back to district 50-A, and boldly say she did her best. Following the status in Saint Paul is not doing her best; even greater concern is not voting with a “governance” stance of Constitutional Rule of Law.

April 23, 2009: Legislative Report #57 

Federalization Of State Education And Unconstitutional Vote 

I will make this report short and to the point on *House File #02. Two issues to report under this heading: 

ISSUE ONE  

Our legislative leadership is shafting local educational control. The text below is from House File 02, and subrogates to the federal government national achievement standards provided below. The federal government has no constitutional authority to make such demands on Minnesota. Our elected leadership is required under the federal and state constitutions to resist the federal control. 

Subd. 2. Federal expectations for student academic achievement. (a) Each school 42.22year, a school district must determine if the student achievement levels at each school site 42.23meet state and local federal expectations. If student achievement levels at a school site do 42.24not meet state and local federal expectations and the site has not made adequate yearly 42.25progress for two consecutive school years, beginning with the

2001-2002 school year,

42.26the district must work with the school site to adopt a plan to raise student achievement 42.27levels to meet state and local federal expectations. The commissioner of education shall 42.28establish student academic achievement levels to comply with this paragraph.

42.29(b) School sites identified as not meeting federal expectations must develop 42.30continuous improvement plans in order to meet state and local federal expectations for 42.31student academic achievement. The department, at a district's request, must assist the 42.32district and the school site in developing a plan to improve student achievement. The plan 42.33must include parental involvement components.

42.34(c) The commissioner must:

42.35(1) provide assistance to assist school sites and districts identified as not meeting 42.36federal expectations; and

43.1(2) provide technical assistance to schools that integrate student progress 43.2achievement measures under subdivision 3 in into the school continuous improvement 43.3plan.

43.4(d) The commissioner shall establish and maintain a continuous improvement Web 43.5site designed to make data on every school and district available to parents, teachers, 43.6administrators, community members, and the general public.

43.7    Subd. 3. Student progress assessment State growth target; other

state measures.

43.8(a) The state's educational assessment system component measuring individual students'

43.9educational progress must be growth is based, to the extent annual tests are administered, 43.10on indicators of achievement growth that show an individual student's prior achievement.

43.11Indicators of achievement and prior achievement must be based on highly reliable 43.12statewide or district wide assessments…… 

ISSUE TWO

Our elected leadership is required under the Minnesota Constitution to vote on one subject bill at a time. H.F. 02 is now a behemoth legal nightmare of multiple bills unrelated to **the “ONE SUBJECT” requirement of our state constitution. H.F. 2 should be voted down 134 to 0 just on constitutional grounds alone. How will our leadership vote, even of more concern how will Carolyn Laine vote on H.F. 2, for the rule of law and principle or convenience? 

Overview content of HF #02

H.F. No. 2, 2nd Engrossment - 86th Legislative Session (2009-2010) Posted on Apr 20, 2009 

1.1A bill for an act

1.2relating to education; providing for policy and funding for family, adult, and 1.3prekindergarten through grade 12 education including general education, 1.4education excellence, special programs, facilities and technology, libraries, 1.5nutrition, accounting, self-sufficiency and lifelong learning, state agencies, 1.6pupil transportation, school finance system changes, forecast adjustments, 1.7and technical corrections; providing for advisory groups; requiring reports; 1.8appropriating money; amending Minnesota Statutes 2008, sections 6.74; 16A.06,  

*https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0002.2.html&session=ls86  

**The Minnesota Constitution clearly states:

Article 4, Sec. 17, LAWS TO EMBRACE ONLY ONE SUBJECT. No law shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.

April 22, 2009: Legislative Report #56 

Baby DNA Warehouse bill passes Senate Committee

The text below provided by an email our campaign received from Citizens Council on Health Care. Many intrusive, unconstitutional actions are occurring in Minnesota, pushed by an out of control Minnesota Department of Health. Spend some time visiting CCHC on the web at http://www.cchconline.org/.  

Email received 4/1/09:

The Baby DNA Warehouse bill (SF 1478) passed in the same Senate health care committee where it was defeated on March 16 with the help of 50+ parents and children in the room. See WHO did it and what happened (below). No effective public notice was given for this hearing. An email was sent out 16 minutes before the Committee was scheduled to begin. No parents were in the room this time. SF 1478 eliminates the genetic privacy law for every citizen 12 and younger...and their parents. In other words, eventually all citizens will not be protected by the genetic privacy law's prohibition on government collection and use of genetic information. The bill is going to the Senate Judiciary Committee to discuss eliminating parent consent from law.  It's likely to happen on Tuesday at 3:00 p.m., but it could likewise be slipped in on Friday's hearing at 8:30 a.m. Please be prepared to come if you can, and let me know if you'll be there. We'll have stickers to wear and signs to hold. 

Twila Brase

President, CCHC

651-646-8935 

The bill passed on a roll call vote 8-3.

VOTING YES TO PASS THE BILL:

 Tell them what you think:  sen.firstname.lastname@senate.mn 

Committee Chair, Sen. John Marty (D-Roseville) - Must go to his website page Sen. Linda Berglin (D-Mpls) - Must go to her website page Sen. John Doll (D-Burnsville) Sen. Sharon Erickson-Ropes (D-Winona) Sen. Ann Lynch (D-Rochester) Sen. Yvonne Prettner Solon (D-Duluth) Sen. Patricia Torres Ray (D-Mpls) Sen. Tony Lourey (D-Kerrick) 

VOTING NO (against the bill):

Thank them: sen.firstname.lastname@senate.mn 

Sen. Michelle Fischbach (R-Paynesville)

Sen. David Hann (R-Eden Prairie)

Sen. Debbie Johnson (R-Ham Lake)

________________________________ 

WHAT HAPPENED

There were only 16 minutes of public notice on the baby DNA warehouse bill.   A 12:14 p.m. email was sent before the Senate Health, Housing, and Family Security Committee began at 12:30 p.m. As was reported to me, Sen. Tony Lourey (D-Kerrick) brought the bill up for reconsideration soon after the committee began. The author of the bill was not there, and at Sen. Fischbach's (R-Payneville) insistence, the hearing was delayed to wait for the author (Scheid-D) or co-author (Rosen-R) to arrive. I arrived shortly thereafter. Then the committee adjournment was delayed past 2:45 p.m. to wait for the author. The bill was finally heard at 3:05 once Sen. Scheid arrived. Sen. Scheid said she did not know the bill was coming up. Interestingly, the health department newborn genetic testing staff were not in the room. Perhaps they had been told there was no need for them to appear. There was in fact almost no one in the audience. I sat alone in three rows of chairs. Sen. Fischbach argued against moving forward due to being past the committee's time schedule and the controversial nature of the bill. Sen. Marty gave Sen. Lourey the opportunity to withdraw his move to reconsider the bill. Sen. Ann Lynch whispered in Lourey's ear. And then Sen. Lourey said, "My motion stands." Senator Ann Lynch (D-Rochester) then moved to amend the bill to make the language just like the Baby DNA Warehouse bill she carried last year - the one the Governor vetoed. Sen. Berglin argued in favor of the amendment saying that the original Scheid bill's requirement that DNA be destroyed after two years would make it a burden on parent to ask for the State to retain their child's DNA. No one mentioned the burden on the parents to have the State destroy their child's DNA today and into the future. 

Sen. Debbie Johnson tried to adjourn the meeting, but was voted down.

Sen. Hann argued against legalizing MDH illegal activities, and retaining blood samples without parent consent.

Sen. Fischbach argued that the entire proceedings were "inappropriate." 

But one DFL senator said, "Two years is too short of time" for the Department to have the newborn blood on file. 

The bill passed. See above. 

--CCHC--

April 22, 2009: Meeting With 50-A Representative 

On Friday April 24, 2009, I had the occasion to encounter Carolyn Laine at the state capital. Carolyn invited and I accepted an offer to tour Carolyn’s office in the State Office Building across the street from the Capital. 

During our travels together, Representative Phyllis Kahn (DFL) District:

59B joined us for a portion of our travel. We exchanged pleasant conversation, and enjoyed some political jostling. Carolyn Laine graciously answered my questions about her responsibilities, and protocol of holding office. She gave a thorough tour of her office including an introduction to her partisan staffer, who Carolyn shares with another DFL representative. In parting Carolyn’s staffer kindly said “Good luck” which I thankfully accepted, and Carolyn quickly said, “Do not wish Tim too much luck”. 

I want to thank publicly, Carolyn for extending her offer that day. Though we are, polar opposite on purpose of government, and legislative authority, I appreciated Carolyn Laine’s invitation.

April 21, 2009: Legislative Report #55

Just Two Bills Today 

On Tuesday April 21, 2009 Legislative leaders *introduced two bills page 3211, creeping the total this year to 2,344. Bill **HF2344 introduced by Robin Brown (DFL) District: 27A, Jeanne Poppe (DFL) District: 27B, Greg Davids (R) District: 31B directs revenue from the new ...arts and cultural heritage fund to the commissioner of education… 

I have issues with transferring funds directed to arts and the cultural community to education. I have constitutional issues with the clause …to defray the travel and attendance costs… The constitutional amendment funds are to provide additional resources to the arts and cultural community, not to subsidize visitor’s costs. I question the legality of introducing this bill on the House floor for consideration.  

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0421037.htm  

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2344.0.html&session=ls86

April 21, 2009: Founding Father Quotes 

Campaign Committee for Constitutional Republicans staff took some time looking up quotes for America past. Our country founding fathers were wise men, willing to put their all on the line to forge a new society in the new Americas. We share some of the quotes with you today, enjoy, and consider the wisdom, and understanding placed in the written word.

Benjamin Franklin, To Colleagues at the Constitutional Convention

“All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of superintending providence in our favor. To that kind providence, we owe this happy opportunity of consulting in peace on the means of establishing our future national felicity. In addition, have we now forgotten that powerful friend? Or do we imagine that we no longer need his assistance? I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth-that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the Ground without his Notice, is it probable that an Empire can rise without his Aid?"

 Alexander Hamilton, speech to the New York Ratifying Convention, June,1788

 “I am persuaded that a firm union is as necessary to perpetuate our liberties as it is to make us respectable; and experience will probably prove that the National Government will be as natural a guardian of our freedom as the State Legislatures.”

  John Adams, Thoughts on Government, 1776

 “A constitution founded on these principles introduces knowledge among the people, and inspires them with a conscious dignity becoming freemen; a general emulation takes place, which causes good humor, sociability, good manners, and good morals to be general. That elevation of sentiment inspired by such a government, makes the common people brave and enterprising. That ambition which is inspired by it makes them sober, industrious, and frugal.”

John Adams, letter to Abigail Adams, July 17, 1775

“But a Constitution of Government once changed from Freedom, can never be restored. Liberty, once lost, is lost forever.”

Thomas Jefferson, letter to Thomas Ritchie, December 25, 1820 

“A judiciary independent of a king or executive alone, is a good thing; but independence of the will of the nation is a solecism, at least in a republican government.” 

John Adams, Defense of the Constitutions, 1787

“Children should be educated and instructed in the principles of freedom.”  

Benjamin Franklin, from his writings, 1758

“He that goes a borrowing goes a sorrowing.”  

John Adams, Thoughts on Government, 1776

“Government is instituted for the common good; for the protection, safety, prosperity, and happiness of the people; and not for profit, honor, or private interest of any one man, family, or class of men; therefore, the people alone have an incontestable, unalienable, and indefeasible right to institute government; and to reform, alter, or totally change the same, when their protection, safety, prosperity, and happiness require it.”  

Thomas Jefferson, September 6, 1789

“But with respect to future debt; would it not be wise and just for that nation to declare in the constitution they are forming that neither the legislature, nor the nation itself can validly contract more debt, than they may pay within their own age, or within the term of 19 years.” 

Alexander Hamilton, Essay in the American Daily Advertiser, Aug 28, 1794 

“…it be asked, What is the most sacred duty and the greatest source of our security in a Republic? The answer would be, An inviolable respect for the Constitution and Laws — the first growing out of the last.... A sacred respect for the constitutional law is the vital principle, the sustaining energy of a free government.”  

Thomas Jefferson, Notes on the State of Virginia, Query 18, 1781

“And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are the gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with his wrath? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep for ever.”

April 20, 2009: Legislative Report #54 

End of Session Close? Just Two Bills 

No Monday April 20, 2009 the Minnesota House *introduced only two bills on page 3,095. I truly see the end of session, but not a minute to soon. Documenting the session today took 447 pages of print. Bill **HR 2340, introduced by Kent Eken (DFL) District: 02A, creates a new tax on long-term care recipients incomes. No rest for the aged in Minnesota.  

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/CCO/JOURNALS/2009-10/J0420036.htm 

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2340.0.html&session=ls86

April 20, 2009: English Style Spying In Our Back Yard? 

I apologize in advance for drifting across the pond (Atlantic) to make my point on this post. I did consider not making this report as others in Saint Paul, who read our website postings, may attempt to implement this story.

That said I came across an English story on police spying on general drivers in a community. The story is disturbing for Americans raised in relative freedom. But I warn you the liberties we Americans enjoy, disappear yearly as “We The People” continue living life, ignoring our constitutional obligations of keeping government in check. 

This story may not appear possible in America. Yet many surveillance methodologies implemented in England somehow migrate across the pond becoming standard practice in a community near you, justified by elected leaders as necessary for a civil society.  

Note the reasoning, justifications, and illogic promoted by the police officer to justify actions. Web Link:

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=708_1240014124

April 17, 2009: Legislative Report #53 

5 More Bills Today 

On Friday April 17, 2009 our elected leadership *introduced another group of bills on page 2,756, bringing Minnesota legislature to 2,328 bills for the year. One bill introduced is **HF 2327, introduced by Alice Hausman (DFL) District: 66B, which appropriates funds from the constitutional amendment passed last year. The bill provides $4,000,000.00 in new tax revenue from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund established by the constitutional amendment to Minnesota Public Radio. HF 2327 directs Minnesota Public Radio to spend the $4,000,000.00 “…for new regional and national programming…” Now some may call me nit picking, but I pose this question. How many Minnesotans voted for the constitutional amendment expecting Minnesota Public Radio to collect more funds to promote regional and national programming?  

I see no connection between Arts and Cultural Heritage and Minnesota Public radio national programming. I question the wisdom of Alice Hausman for introducing HF 2327. 

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0417035.htm   

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2327.0.html&session=ls86

April 16, 2009: Legislative Report #52 

32 Days Of Session Remaining, Another 5 Bills 

On Thursday April 16, 2009 Legislators introduces another *six bills on page 2565, bringing to 2,323 bills introduced so far this year. One Bill, **HF 2322, introduced by Tom Rukavina (DFL) District: 05A, creates a completely new state agency. When created the agency called Minnesota Venture Network Board, charged with creating Venture capital investment in Minnesota, by providing up to $50,000,000.00 a year in tax credits. The bill provides no state spending reductions to offset general fund revenue losses with this program. The result is a direct revenue loss to the state general fund, and Minnesota tax payers are taxed an additional $50,000,000.00 a year. 

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0416034.htm  

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2322.0.html&session=ls86

April 14, 2009: Legislative Report #51 

And Then There Are 13 

On Tuesday April 14, 2009, 13 additional bills *introduced in the Minnesota House, bringing the total to 2317 for the year. One bill **HF 2315, introduced by, Thomas Huntley (DFL) District: 07A, is intended to increase tax rates above inflation for Hospitals, Surgical Centers, Health Care Providers, and Wholesale Drug Providers, to support increases in Minnesota Care. The bill, as introduced, has no proposed new tax rate, leaving the new taxing structure unknown. 

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0414033.htm  

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2315.0.html&session=ls86 

Friday April 3, 2009: We Had Fun

On Thursday April 2, 2009 campaign members, Nick Quade, Mona Anderson, the candidate Tim and his lovely bride Nadine, joined other limited like-minded Minnesotans and attended a party. The Budget Hawks Jam & Bash at Trocaderos Nightclub in Minneapolis, donned guests like Sue Jeffers, Dorothy Fleming, Marty Seifert, Marianne Stebbins, and many others. A band entertained the crowd, as Tim and Nadine meet many new folks from around the area. Mona searched the group for campaign donations and Nick worked the crowd.

We do hope you can attend the next event.

Tim and National delegate, Cory Sax, to the 2008 Republican Party convention in Saint Paul, Minnesota

Nick Quade sharing great conversation with other guests.

Nick Quade and Nadine, Tim’s bride, sharing conversation and a booth at Trocaderos

April 10, 2009: Federal Spending And Budget Shortages

Courtney Schlisserman of *Bloomberg.com released a story today on federal spending and debt. I suggest you take some time, read the article, and savor how our federal leadership cherishes your earnings.  

All federal spending, remaining constant for the balance of the 2009 federal budget, (ending 9/30/09) the debt reaches $1,913,600,000,000.00. Remember that in February 2008, Bush proposed the 2009 budget and congress signed it onto law last summer. The 2009 federal budget, originally projected a $407,000,000,000.00 shortfall, now appears a possible 450% jump to $1.9 trillion.

Obama and congress just proposed and passed the 2010 budget, beginning October 1, 2009. Our federal leadership admits an expected $1,400,000,000,000.00 shortfall for the 2010 budget. Who can even predict what the federal debt is when the 2010 budget books close on September 30, 2010. Congressional economic predictions seem short on accuracy.   

* http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=akztDjsPHynE&refer=home

April 9, 2009: House District 50-A Republican Convention

On April 4, 2009 the delegates for Republican House 50-A held their annual convention at the Fridley Community Center. 35 delegates voted to replace the existing leadership. The intent is working with 50-B to win the Senate seat 50, the 50-A and 50-B House seats. Plenty of folks stepped forward, nominated for positions, and in the end all participating had an experience and see working to make a stronger BPOU for the future. Several special speakers attended including Sue Jeffers from KTLK 1280 AM radio.

Newly elected HD50-A chair John Anderson and His Wife Anne

Left to Right: Greg Sloat, Chairman for Tim’s campaign, Dorothy Fleming, running for GOP state deputy chair, Mona Anderson fundraiser coordinator for Tim’s campaign.

Tim, with his lovely wife Nadine, and Dorothy Fleming.

April 8, 2009: Citizen Legislature You Decide 

I reviewed the current *makeup of our elected House leadership. The group is not reflective of the population in general. Our founding fathers intended to have a representative government, meaning a balance of leadership reflecting the state. 86% of the current legislators have a 4 year degree or higher. 52% have professional careers in four categories, education, law, business, and career legislators. In the last 8 years legislators with an education career increased 35%, from 20 to 27. 

The only requirements for being a state legislator:  

1.    Reside in a district for 6 months prior to the election.

2.    Be a Minnesota resident for 1 year

3.    Be 21 years old or older

4.    Be eligible to vote

2009 Minnesota Legislators profile 

Education          

High School                                         3 

Technical College                               6 

Some College                                     8 

4-Year Undergraduate Degree         40    

 Some Graduate Work                       18

 Graduate Degree                               56

 Other                                                    1

Occupation 

Educator                                 27

Attorney                                  17

Business                                14

Legislator                               10

Retired                                    7

Consultant                               5

Government                            6 

Real Estate                             1 

Communications                    3 

Trades                                     3 

Farming                                   5 

Homemaker                            2 

Healthcare                               3 

Social Services                      1 

Law Enforcement                   1 

Other                                        29 

The intent of this posting is not demeaning education or education legislators. The point is state representation is by “We The People”, not a specific group or type of citizen. The result of not having a balanced representative government is what Minnesota has today. Minnesota spends almost 50% of our budget on education. That fact, in and of its self, is not healthy for any state.  

Have you ever considered running for elected office, or know anyone who has? Our campaign is seeking folks considering state, county, and local offices. Get off the couch, shed some fluff activities in life, and participate in “We The Peoples” government. Minnesota needs a broad representative group of citizens working in elected leadership. Contact us today at the link provided to the left. We can provide connections with organizations willing to guide you through the process.

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/leginfo/ls86hseprofile.pdf

 April 7, 2009: Have you had enough yet? 

“We The People” have a constitutional obligation to keep our government in check. Many Americans have abdicated the obligation of keeping government in check for decades. We now have a state government functioning out of control with an attitude of Right and Privilege.  

The time is NOW to place controls on state government. Support our campaign for Minnesota House 50-A today. Navigate to the donate page on this website and contribute. Candidates cannot win an election without monetary support.  

In the next year, our campaign will post other like-minded candidates, from around the state, on this site with web links. Participate and get involved, even if you are not in a candidate’s district and unable to vote for them, you can always support a candidate through a generous gift.

April 7, 2009: Legislative Report #50 

Only 2,303, Are We Reaching Session End? 

Tuesday April 7, 2009 the Minnesota House met for the 32nd time. Seven bills introduced today totaling 2,303 bills for the year. One bill is **HF #2303, authored by Dave Olin (DFL) District: 01A, appropriates $200,000.00 from the BROKE general fund to create an online high school agricultural education program. Constitutionally Minnesota has an obligation to educate; I question the timing of appropriating additional state expenses requiring additional revenue generation. In addition, this program is college level materials provided free to high school students, when college students have out of pocket costs for similar courses. When is enough enough? 

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0407032.htm  

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2303.0.html&session=ls86

April 6, 2009: Legislative Report #49

How Winds Of Time Change A Political Position 

On March 23, 2009 Carolyn Laine, as author, introduced *HF #2046, the Hookah Bar Bill. Quite interesting, how the winds of time change a legislator’s position. During the 2008 campaign, Carolyn defended her position to ban smoking in Minnesota. Though supporting smoking shacks, Carolyn stood tall defending her voting record on the smoking ban. She campaigned on the need to eliminate smoking in Minnesota. I ask myself why Carolyn would change direction, in just four short months, on a position that violates her stated principles. Perhaps she is pandering to a special interest group. Perhaps Carolyn is seeking broader voter support for her re-election in 2010. On the other hand, perhaps she has recanted her position on eliminating smoking in Minnesota.

Carolyn Laine I ask you: “how is changing your stated position on an issue, a state wide smoking ban, showing any type of Governance ”. Which special interest group is next to get special support from Carolyn Laine? 

*https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2046.0.html&session=ls86

April 6, 2009: Legislative Report #48 

PCR and Your Tax Dollars 

I researched Carolyn Laine’s campaign *reports for the 2008 election. According, to the campaign filing Carolyn Laine legally received state funding support through the PCR program to help fund her campaign. On page, #13 of the link below Minnesota Department of Revenue sent Carolyn Laine 2 payment as follows: 

9/1/2008                     $6,364.62  

12/1/2008                     $165.77 

TOTAL PAYMENT   $6,530.39 

Tax dollars taken from the general fund, to support Carolyn Laine’s 2008 campaign. On page #2 of the campaign report, Carolyn’s campaign balance as of 12/31/08 registered at $12,686.33.  Carolyn Laine continues holding ALL $6,530.39 tax dollars in her account for an election that ended 153 days ago. With a state projected shortfall of $6,400,000,000.00 holding onto state funds in a private account reflects poor governance and judgment. Money better spent serving the citizens of Minnesota and not holdup in a 2008 campaign war chest. 

In 2008, I did not participate in the PCR program. In 2010 election, I again am not accepting PCR funds. Standing on principle is true governance, not hording unused taxpayer’s dollars in a private account. 

*http://www.cfbreport.state.mn.us/pdfStorage/2008/CampFin/YE/16374.pdf

April 6, 2009: Legislative Report #47 

The Nanny State 

On Monday April 6, 2009, Joe Atkins, (DFL) District: 39B introduced *bill #2296. The bill strips parent control of providing for their children under 16 related to tanning booth usage. The existing law, provided below, acknowledges constitutional parental rights. Joe Atkins intends to remove a parent’s right under our constitution to parent.  

Minnesota Statute 325H.08 CONSENT REQUIRED 

Before allowing the initial exposure at a tanning facility of a person under the age of 16, the owner or operator shall witness the person's parent's or legal guardian's signing and dating of the warning statement required under section 325H.06. History: 1993 c 316 s 8

*https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2296.0.html&session=ls86 

April 6, 2009: Legislative Report #46 

How Can Legislators Create More Work? 

On Monday April 6, 2009 our elected leaders introduced 19 new bills bringing the new bill total for legislative year 2009 to 2,296. An example of the bills introduced today is **Bill 2278, authored by Joe Atkins (DFL) District: 39B. The bill provides for increased fines of commercial vehicles caught overweight on Minnesota roads. The penalty increases are from 70% to 500%. Good luck Minnesota, retaining commercial traffic and business.  

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0406031.htm  

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2278.0.html&session=ls86

April 2, 2009: Legislative Report #45 

Only 7 New Bills? 

On Thursday April 2, 2009, the *Minnesota House introduced seven new bills. Perhaps the flood of new regulation proposed to suppress the constituents of the state may end. Of the last group of submissions is **bill 2274, authored by John Lesch (DFL) District: 66A, Phyllis Kahn (DFL) District: 59B, Morrie Lanning (R) District: 09A. The bill creates new law under the tax code providing up to $1,000,000.00 in annual tax credits. The film and movie industry are the qualifying entities for this credit. I find four glaring reasons to reject HF 2274. 

1.    “We The People” have to replace the lost revenue through increases in our taxes.

2.    The bill creates a special protected group, with privileges unique to film and movies.

3.    The state priority is to balance a budget shortfall of $6.4 billion. Not reduce state revenue and not cut equivalent spending.

4.    Neither the film nor the movie industries are in the constitution as state obligations to secure special privileges.

 *http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0402029.htm 

 **https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2274.0.html&session=ls86

April 1, 2009: Legislative Report #44 

Moreover, And Today There Are 25

With 46 days, remaining in the current Legislative session, and another25 bills introduced, bringing the total for the year to 2,269. Have you contacted your legislative representative to share your opinion? Click the “links” tab to the left and under “government websites”, you can locate the Minnesota House and Senate. You are paying for all the cost of government. Take advantage of the state appropriations taken from your family budget,  and let State Capital leadership know who you are.

An example of today’s bills;  

HF *2246 authored by, Roger Reinert (DFL) District: 07B, takes $500,000.00 per year from the newly created constitutional Parks and Trails fund, and then provides grants to twin cities units of government. The funds are for new or improving existing dog parks. So now, all the out-state folks in Minnesota can come to the twin cities and walk your dog in our new parks. Sounds like a great investment for out state taxpayers:-). 

*https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2246.0.html&session=ls86 

March 30, 2009 Legislative Report #43

The bills Just Keep Coming  

$6.4 billion budget deficit, who has time to deal with that? On Monday, March 30, 2009, with only 49 days in session, our leadership introduced 40 additional *bills bringing this session total to 2,243. Reason indicates the end of session is the only way to end bill introduction. 

An example of the latest round of constitutional violations of our elected legislature is Bill #2242. In general, the state would give local law enforcement authority to enforce environmental violations, and on the spot seizure of the violators off road vehicle. The existing law and a section of proposed addition are below. Using the words “careless and reckless”, how vague can an enforcement tool be.

2008 Minnesota Statutes 84.773 sub 2, (2)

…carelessly upset the natural and ecological balance of a wetland or public waters wetland; or…

part of the new bill #2242:

…and the person recklessly upsets the natural and ecological balance of a wetland or public waters wetland…

Before you go off road any more, have a lawyer, the EPA regulations manual, one environmentalist, a survey crew, and a DNR representative. You have no need to worry about a Minnesota mosquito sucking the blood out of you ~ the Minnesota Legislature is fully intending to. Perhaps we all sell our off road vehicles or vacation in another state.

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0330027.htm

March 30, 2009 In The News

Federal Stimulus Package and Lobbyist 

As our campaign continues, monitoring the $800,000,000,000.00 Federal Stimulus Package one consistent event seems prevalent, lobbyists influence. 

The stimulus package developed over just a couple weeks, prior to submission to congress, had very little if any details, just general principles. During this stage, lobbyist influenced the types of spending within the bill, cable access, student loans, electric transportation, and education and so on.  

What we are noticing from news reports is a continued pattern of lobby influence. After passage of the Stimulus bill, units of the federal government, authorized to distribute or spend the taxpayers dollars, with the help of lobbyists, began their work. The first activity for each government agency is make rules, layers of administration, establish qualification requirements, service standards, and specifications for grant recipients. Lobbyist appear being the primary group, establishing specifications for stimulus spending, which government departments in turn write into the qualification requirements for stimulus bidders.

 An example is two quotes from a *Bloomberg article: 

“The companies have remained noncommittal as they lobby to shape rules for the grants.”

“The $7.2 billion is intended to bring fast Internet service to “un-served” areas that don’t have it and other regions the government deems “underserved,” according to the stimulus measure. The Commerce Department’s, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, will disburse $4.7 billion and the Agriculture Department $2.5 billion. Both agencies must decide what “underserved” means before awarding any grants. “

In conclusion, “We The People” and our great grandchildren are on the hook for supporting special interest groups. In turn, they benefit by being the sole qualifying bidder for stimulus grants.  

*http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601109&sid=aXx.QVEa9vpM&refer=home

March 26, 2009: Legislative Report #42

52 Day Remaining Of Session

Today, Thursday March 26, 2009, with just 52 days left in the 2009, legislative session House Representatives introduced another 29 bills, bringing the total this year at 2,202. Perhaps “We The People” should spend the last week of session at the capital watching how our elected leaders handle the self imposed work load. 

http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0326026.htm

March 25, 2009: Legislative Report #41

Appropriations Spending 

Currently we have *550 bills listed under the title of “appropriations”. Overwhelming is the descriptive word, as you scroll down the list of proposed spending. I just listed the first few bills below. I question anyone ability to fully and appropriately review the meaning, content, and effect of each 550 bills.  

**Bill #2170

Creates a completely new state agency

Cost for 2010 and 2011 $6,500,000.00 from the “BROKE” general fund

***Bill #2168

Bonding program for Leach Lake Tribal College

Cost $4,000,000.00 plus interest over unspecified period

****Bill #2161

Creates a completely new state agency

Cost $15,000,000.00 from the federal stimulus package

*Number of bills

**https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2170.0.html&session=ls86

***https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2168.0.html&session=ls86

****https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H2161.0.html&session=ls86

March 25, 2009: Legislative Report #40

Doing The Business Of Legislating  

With the introduction of another 50 bills today, Minnesota has a staggering 2172 bills on the business agenda. No longer is the possibility our representatives fulfill their oath to uphold the Minnesota Constitution and deal properly with 2172 bills and balance a budget having a projected shortfall of $6,400,000,000.00.  

The clock on our website is fast approaching the zero hour. With 53 days remaining, what little reason and logic has existed in Saint Paul, will now vanish. Pressures to pass legislation, special interest group influence and the clock all reduce adherence to the Constitution and representation of “We The People”.

March 24, 2009: Legislative Report #39 

Just Keep Introducing Bills, No One Will Notice 

On Tuesday March 24, 2009 another 45 bills introduced bringing the total to 2121 for the year 2009. All I can do today is just shake my head in disbelief. I look forward to the good citizens of 50-A sending me to the State Capital in 2010, bringing some reason, logic, common sense, and the Constitution to Saint Paul.  

http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0324024.htm

March 23, 2009 Legislative Report #38 

More and More bills, Mom Should Be Proud of Minnesota

On Monday March 23, 2009, Legislative Representative Leaders introduced a whopping 117 new bills bringing the total introduced this year to over two thousand at 2076. Just remember this year session must adjourn in a short 56 days. In the first weeks of the legislature this year I asked the House office in charge of bills “how many bills should we expect be introduced this year?” I received the calm reply of 1400 to 1500 or so. To date we are 34% over that expectation, and still no place near solving our budget shortfall. 

http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0323023.htm

March 23, 2009 Legislative Report #37 

New Introduced Bills, Our Kids Will Be Proud Of Us

On Thursday March 19, 2009, the elected leaders in Saint Paul introduced another 71 bills, raising the total introduced this year to 1959. Does anyone in Saint Paul have any shame yet?

http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0319022.htm

March 23, 2009 Legislative Report #36

 Typical Committee Meeting

 We are providing below the intended meeting schedule for a typical committee at the capital today. The committee is “State and Local Government Operations Reform, Technology and Elections”. The committee has access to room #200 until 10:30, thus providing 2 hours at most for this committee to deal with 5 bills. The subjects for consideration are, intrusive travel reductions for citizens to reduce Green House Gases, additional laws on shoreline property, various changes in hunting regulations, creating metropolitan dog parks by using the new Parks and Trails constitutional amendment funds, and technical changes to current law.

The meeting today scheduled to reviewed, considered, debated; hear public input, take professional testimony, consider bill enactment changes to existing law, and the effect the bills have on every aspect of Minnesota. A short 24 minutes per bill allowed today by this committee to consider all the mentioned activities.

This type of *scheduling happens daily at the capital. Even more concerting is the increased load of bill consideration for committee hearings as the legislative deadlines approach. The schedules established cannot provide for doing the “Peoples Business” and keeping to the oath of our State Constitution. 

TUESDAY, March 24, 2009

8:30 AM

State and Local Government Operations Reform, Technology and Elections

Room: 200 State Office Building

Chair: Rep. Gene Pelowski

Agenda:

HF898

(Hornstein) Greenhouse gas reduction goals and strategies added to various state and metropolitan programs and plans, goals establish for per capita reduction in vehicle miles traveled to reduce greenhouse gasses, and money transferred.

HF1182

(Bly) Public service corporation exemptions repealed.

HF519

(Nelson) Nonconforming lots in shore land areas regulated.

HF297    

(Hansen) Twin Cities metropolitan area regional dog park and matching grant program created, and money appropriated.

Pending action in the Local Government Division:

HF1238    

(Dill) Refund provisions modified, definitions modified, publication requirements modified, restrictions in migratory feeding and resting areas modified, local law exemptions provided, wild animal and fish taking, possession, and licensing requirements provided, and certain fees authorized.

 * http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/scheduleall.asp    

Bill #297

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=ceH0297.1.html&session=ls86 

Bill #519 

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=ceH0519.1.html&session=ls86

Bill #898 

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=ceH0519.1.html&session=ls86

Bill #1182 

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H1182.0.html&session=ls86  

Bill #1238 

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=ceH1238.1.html&session=ls86

March 23, 2009: Legislative Report # 35

Light Rail Forced on Minnesota 

A little research in Minnesota Legislatures website show 10 bills for light rail projects introduced so far in 2009. The bills include at least $26,500,000.00 of debt bonding to pay for studies on building the rail corridors in Minnesota.  

I have multiple problems with the bills bring introduced, they include: 

1. A presumption of profitable rider ship over decades

2. A presumption of affordability to fund the construction

3. We have a responsibility to fully fund and maintain existing road systems

4. The expectation of Federal Revenue increases to fund such transportation expansion and maintenance into future decades

5. The bills borrow funds with interest over many years to pay for studies

Any legislative representative who plans state spending past 2009, with the expectation of continued federal dollars is wholly misjudging the reality of our economy. Thoughtful legislative leadership would strongly consider the stability of future federal payments in relation to Minnesota revenue.  

I am opposed to every bill introduced below, not because the concept may be a reasonable plan for the Metro Area, because reasonable economic considerations prohibit any investment past our existing transportation system. Minnesota has no business investing in new transportation toys, when the existing infrastructure continues crumbling around us. 

HF 48: Hastings and Red Wing $2,000,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0048.0.html&session=ls86

HF 124: Rochester, $500,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0124.0.html&session=ls86

HF 259: Chicago, $10,000,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0259.0.html&session=ls86

HF 263: Minneapolis to Saint Paul $8,500,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0263.0.html&session=ls86

HF 307: Northfield, No funds appropriated yet

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0307.0.html&session=ls86

HF 637: Maple Grove $500,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0637.0.html&session=ls86

HF 828: Rosemount $4,000,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0828.0.html&session=ls86

HF 833: Hinckley $1,000,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0833.0.html&session=ls86

HF 1210: Little Crow Transit Way Willmar $500,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H1210.0.html&session=ls86

HF 1799: Mankato $500,000.00 bond

https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H1799.0.html&session=ls86

March 22, 2009: In The News

Our Fourth Gun Show This Year 

Campaign Committee for Constitutional Republicans participated in the Minnesota State Fair, *Minnesota Weapons Collectors Association, gun show over the March 21 weekend. We handed out 2500 business cards, made plenty of new friends, had many meaningful conversations, and received four requests for assistance from show visitors on running for office in 2010.

We look forward to 2010 spring, gun show season, and participating again.

Featured above is Wes Wiggins, campaign transportation coordinator, at the CCCR table, looking for Gun Show visitors to talk with.

*http://mwca.org/

March 22, 2009 Legislative Report #34

Stealing From Our Pockets 

1997 Minnesota placed a levy on property to fund *programs under **TBRA or LHIA. The funds raise $1.5 million a year to cleanup neighborhoods and fund low-income housing projects.

Using the power of the Metro Council, ***bill1955 ****proposes to steal up to 75% of the above mentioned account revenues for years 2009, 2010, 2011, to pay projected operating deficits for the transit, Para transit, light rail and commuter rail services. Additionally the Met Council misrepresents the total number of year's redirection of such funds are occurring on their website.  

Additionally HF#1955 steals up to 75% of the *****Right-of-Way Loan Acquisition Fund. The funds designed to quickly respond to real estate market activities and purchase property using best practices for future trunk Highway construction. Gutting the Right-of Way Acquisition Fund will cost Minnesota Millions in additional taxes and future land costs to fund Trunk Highway projects for decades.  

Even more insidious is the revenue redirection in Bill #1955. Minnesota will, now subsidize Mass transit programs covered by last year's multi billion-dollar gas tax increases by stealing from Highway funding programs.  

Just consider all the bills introduced in 2009 so far. The games played, deception, redirecting of dedicated funding programs and revenues, all attempting to cover a budget debt of $6,400,000,000.00. The actions of this bill are nothing short of criminal. "We The People" must stop the insane activities at the legislature. Replacement of elected leadership has to occur in 2010, we have little to no governance.

*https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/statutes/?id=473.254

**http://www.metrocouncil.org/services/livcomm.htm 

***https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H1955.0.html&session=ls86  

****http://www.metrocouncil.org/grants/tbra/TBRASpring09Funding.htm 

*****https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/statutes/?id=473.167 

March 18th, 2009: Legislative update #33

Smoking in Your Car 

A couple days ago, I had an opportunity meeting with a current Minnesota Republican Senator. Our conversation covered the issue of smoking in Minnesota. House file *#379 is intended to criminalize smoking in your personal vehicle. As with so many other quote, “great Ideas” like criminalizing seatbelt usage over time, this bill removes further personal liberties. State Constitution provides NO authority for HF #379 introduction for consideration. Without liberty minded, constitutional, legislative representatives like me, criminalization of your personal choice to smoke in a private setting is inevitable. 

The Senator also mentioned to me having discussions with colleagues on enforcing the concept of a smoking ban in automobiles. Talk at the capital is to use the Photo Cop intersection system. The idea is photograph people smoking in their automobiles with or without children, as they pass intersections, then issue a ticket similar to running a red light.  

*https://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/bldbill.php?bill=H0379.0.html&session=ls86

March 18th, 2009 Legislative Report #32

Even More Bills 

Today our representatives introduced another *67 bills, bringing the total of new bills for 2009 to 1888. Just how many bills support a balanced budget? 

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0318021.pdf

March 16th, 2009 Legislative Report #31

More Bills 

Today our elected leaders introduced another *115 bills today, bringing the total introduced this year so far to 1820. Does anyone see a pattern here, when the house holds a session? I really am running out of words. 

*http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/cco/journals/2009-10/J0316020.pdf

January 6, 2009: Election Results 2008