The 2009 Voting Record is now online! 
See how legislators performed at the State Capitol.  View their voting records and read a
behind-the-scenes account of which legislators were most active. 

To view the Minnesota Chamber's Voting Record - click here

• Education Reform – Alternative Teacher Licensure: During the 2009 session, the alternative teacher licensure bill passed the Senate with a strong bipartisan vote; however, it was defeated in the House because of gubernatorial politics.  The potential for Minnesota to receive a “Race to the Top” federal grant has put more focus on the issue in the interim.  Some believe the state is situated very well to be awarded a $400 million grant if it commits to passing a strong alternative teacher licensure bill.  Governor Pawlenty could also add to the education reform agenda with proposals later this fall. 

• Environmental Permitting: Streamlining, adding certainty and reducing the cost of the permitting process is important to economic development in the state.  Through policy development sessions and Grow Minnesota! visits we routinely hear of the problems associated with the state’s permitting process.  In general, what takes months in other states can take multiple years in Minnesota. 

• Health Care Reform: The potential impact of federal health care reform legislation on Minnesota keeps this topic on the Chamber’s priority list.  In addition, Governor Pawlenty is interested in taking another step on health care reform at the state level.  We have yet to see any specifics from his administration.  The Chamber will continue to monitor and support the implementation of the 2008 state health care reform bill as well. 

• Repealing the Nuclear Ban: During the 2009 session, the Chamber was 8 votes in the House shy of sending a bill to the Governor that contained the repeal of the ban on Public Utilities Commission consideration of proposals for new nuclear power plants in Minnesota.  The provision passed the Senate on a strong bipartisan vote. 

• Spending Reform: The spending reform policy will focus on budget process reform, enhancing productivity of state and local government, and reducing overhead costs. 

Budget Process Reform:  Change the way the state budgets to avoid over committing during times of surplus and prioritize government spending.
Productivity Enhancement:  Deliver government services at a lower cost per unit while maintaining or improving service levels.
Expense Reduction:  Reduce the overhead expenses of government, including recommendations on public employee benefits and compensation.