February 29, 2016

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U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar highlights the importance of retail to Minnesota's communities in the introductory video to a series featuring Minnesota as part of the National Retail Federation's Retail Across America project.
ADA Update
St. Paul Landlord Wins Case Against Serial ADA Litigant

From the Star Tribune, Matt McKinney, February 25, 2016

"A federal judge has ruled in favor of a St. Paul landlord sued for alleged violations of the Americans With Disabilities Act, a decision seen as the first loss for a disability rights group that's filed more than 100 such lawsuits statewide while drawing the ire of chambers of commerce, some politicians and the disabled community itself.

The ruling against the Disability Support Alliance and its attorney, Paul Hansmeier, also says they must pay a portion of the costs incurred by the landlord, Heartwood Enterprises, in fighting the lawsuit.

"Ultimately, the judge agreed with our case that Heartwood Enterprises does not treat individuals with disabilities any different than those without and that Heartwood did not violate federal or state law," said Heartwood's attorney, Joseph M. Windler of Winthrop and Weinstine.

The suit was similar to others filed by the DSA in which a member of the group claimed to have visited a small business only to be thwarted by missing ramps, mislabeled parking spaces, narrow doorways or other barriers to access. Many of the businesses have also complained that they would fix the ADA violations if given the chance, but lawsuits were filed before they could address access shortcomings."
 
Product Regulation
MPCA Proposes Ban On Labeling Wipes 'Flushable'

From the St. Cloud Times, Kristi Marohn, February 23, 2016

"They're labeled "flushable," but once they're flushed, disposable wipes can cause big problems for city sewers.

City officials have complained for years that the sanitary wipes don't break down, but end up getting caught in pumps and clogging up wastewater treatment systems, leading to costly repairs.

Now the state Pollution Control Agency is proposing a ban on labeling such products sold in Minnesota as "flushable," "septic safe" or "sewer safe." The proposal also would require packaging to include a "Do not flush" message.

"While they may get flushed down through the toilet, they really aren't flushable, and they cause lot and lot of problems with the municipal wastewater system," said Rebecca Flood, assistant MPCA commissioner for water policy.

The number and popularity of disposable wipes has increased in recent years, as manufacturers advertise them as an essential and convenient product for every need, from cleaning to changing babies to removing makeup."
 
ORC
Popular Organized Retail Crime Conference Returns For Second Year August 16
 
Registration is open for the second annual Twin Cities Organized Retail Crime Association (TCORCA) Training & Conference to be held at the Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West in Plymouth, August 16-17, 2016.

Don't miss the premier training event for retail and financial investigators, prosecutors, crime analysts, crime prevention specialists, and law enforcement officers.
 
Budget Update
State Surplus Slips; Legislators Have $900 Million To Work With Beginning March 8

In a press release this past Friday, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) announced a new projected forecast budget surplus of $900 million for fiscal years 2016-2017. This $900 million forecast balance is down from the previous November forecast of $1.2 billion.

In an already short legislative session this year--with many interests competing for surplus dollars--this revised forecast will no doubt put even more pressure on the negotiations surrounding a transportation bill, a tax bill, and a bonding bill. MMB cited slower growth as the reason for the reduced forecast.

Click here for the entire MMB budget surplus summary to be released later this morning.

The State legislative session begins Tuesday, March 8.



Spotlight On Minnesota
Must-Watch Video Series Showcases Retail's Impact In Minnesota

Watch these five videos as a part of the National Retail Federation's Retail Across America series. Feel the pride!

1. Retail In Minnesota Is Connected! 
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2. It's True, There Is A Minnesota Nice 
3. Small Businesses: More Than A Place To Shop
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4. Handcrafted And Only In Minnesota!
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5. Minnesota Innovation: Retail Tech In Real Time
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Retail Across America
Win A $50 Gift Card - Use #loveMNretail

Watch the five videos then share your favorite moments or stories about retailers you love in Minnesota on social media with the hashtag #loveMNretail. You'll be placed in our drawing for a $50 gift card giveaway!

Gift card giveaway cut-off March 4 at noon.

Participants must use #loveMNretail to be entered in to the drawing. Gift card can be from any Minnesota Retailers Association member--winners choice! Family and friends eligible.
 
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Minnesota Retailers Associaiton
400 Robert Street North, suite 1540
St. Paul, MN 55101
Tel. (651) 227-6631 - mnretail.org - [email protected]