As things begin to wind down at the Capitol, crunch time begins with some of the bills that are very important to schools. Scott Croonquist, executive director of the Association of Metropolitan School Districts shared the following in his AMSD Update this afternoon.
The conference committee on HF 2244, the Permanent School Fund legislation, met last night and again at 7:30 this morning. They will be reconvening at 3:30 this afternoon. Last night, legislative staff reviewed the two bills and the committee took testimony from MDE Deputy Commissioner Jesse Montano, MDE Government Affairs Assistant Director Daron Korte and DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr. This morning they began to explore potential compromises between the two bills and addressing concerns outlined by the administration. You can access the side-by-side comparison
Communications to the conference committee members and the Governor expressing a sense of urgency to pass legislation reforming the oversight of the School Trust Lands would be very helpful. It is critical that legislation pass this year. There will be a tremendous turnover in legislators next year with all of the retirements, etc. and we don't want to have to start all over again next year on this important reform effort.
Suggested Communication to Governor Dayton & Committee Members
I am a concerned citizen and parent and wish to communicate my support for the bills which would allow for the implementation of a formal administration/management team for the school land trusts (HF 2244). These lands should be properly administered and managed to provide the best possible results for Minnesota students.
An independent board of directors, made up of experts in all areas, will best be able to fulfill the duties of a trustee.
At a time when finances are tight for many, the ability to increase revenue for Minnesota students is the right thing to do.
Thank you,
Rep. Denise Dittrich, DFL-Champlin, saw her quest for school trust land reform reach a new height today (March 19) when the House passed reform legislation she has long advocated for. (Photo by T.W. Budig)
If you are interested in becoming more involved with the Legislative Action Coalition (LAC), please contact us by phone at 763-504-4087 or email Kimberley_Lewis@rdale.org
