On Friday, January 27, 2012 the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits and the Minnesota Council on Foundations hosted the 2012 Session Line Up, speakers included Governor Mark Dayton, Representative Paul Thissen, Representative Kurt Zellers, Senator John Marty and Senator David Senjem. Although this is a bonding year and not a budget year there are a number of important issues being brought up. The State currently has an $876 million dollar surplus and although this sounds promising, if not budgeted correctly in can lead to over-spending and shortfalls in the coming years. The theme of creating jobs and a strong middle-class seemed to run through the morning. The difference appears to be in the way that one believes these can be achieved. Is it through supporting small businesses to create more jobs or through creating a competent and educated workforce and addressing barriers to employment?
The important thing about this year is that a number of constitutional amendments are being proposed.
What is a constitutional amendment??

  • First legislature passes an act proposing to change the constitution
  • The change is posed in a question on the ballot for the legislative session
  • 2/3 of voters have to vote yes for the amendment to be approved

The tricky part about a constitutional amendment is the Governor does not need to sign off on the amendment and the Governor cannot veto the amendment. For more information check out How a Constitutional Amendment Is Proposed and Ratified.
The issue of voter photo ID was brought up on a number of occasions. This would require each registered voted to present a MN driver’s license, MN-issued photo ID card or a new voter photo ID. Although these cards would be issued for free there may be a cost associated with providing to correct documentation (such as a birth certificate or marriage license) to issue this card. Cost doesn’t appear to be the only barrier. Transportation to the license center may also pose some issues for residents. It may also be difficult for our clients to obtain these cards because of mental health, developmental disabilities, age, and socioeconomic class.
See Governor Dayton’s response on MPR.
Overall a number of Nonprofits and Foundations spoke about issues that they would like to see on the forefront of this legislative session.