January 7, 2009: Legislative Report #4

Spending Reductions, not on opening session.

I attended the opening session of Minnesota House on January 6, 2009. Pomp and tradition abounded today along with House opening business.  

Included in the House business today was the adoption of temporary rules. Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Delano) stepped up and proposed an amendment to the rules. The proposal would reduce per diem and housing allowances for House members to the 2005-2006 support levels. A somewhat heated exchange followed between Mr. Emmer and House Majority Leader Tony Sertich (DFL-Chisholm). On the first day of session, Mr. Emmer wanting to show the public that the Minnesota House has a commitment to and leadership by a simple reduction of their per diem compensation. Mr. Sertich felt the legislature must consider ideas.