Governor signs bonding bill
Today, Governor Dayton signed the bonding bill into law. The legislation includes $64.1 million in state funding for the following University projects:
HEAPR - $50 million
Itasca Biological Station - $4.1 million
Combined Heat and Power Plant - $10 million
The University will begin work on these projects soon and 1,282 jobs will be created statewide as a result.
Legislature adjourns; 27 members retire
On Thursday, the legislature completed their work at the Capitol and adjourned from the 2012 legislative session. Twenty-seven legislators gave retirement speeches after adjournment - 14 House members and 13 Senate members. Nine House members will run for the Senate in the November election. Today, Representative Rukavina announced he will also retire.
The legislature will reconvene for the 2013 session on January 8. The main focus of the upcoming session will be the development of the 2014-15 biennial budget.
Legislature passes bonding bill, increases U funding by $25 million
This week, the Minnesota Legislature passed the 2012 bonding bill after increasing project funding for the University from previous versions of the bills in the House and Senate. Heeding the governor's threat to veto the bill if last week's proposed funding disparity between the U and MnSCU was not addressed, the House and Senate consequently increased the University's funding. The Government and Community Relations Office and University leadership worked with legislators to increase HEAPR funding by $10 million, as well as provide funding for the first phase of the Combined Heat and Power Plant. The University projects funded in the bill are as follows:
View the updated financial comparison.
The bonding bill, totaling $496 million for statewide projects, passed the House on a 99-32 vote on Monday night, and it later passed the Senate 45-22 after two amendments were adopted that were unrelated to the University. As a result, there are two versions of the bill. When the House convened on Tuesday afternoon, they accepted the Senate amendments and repassed the bill by a vote of 97-33. The bill is now on it's way to Governor Dayton, who is expected to sign it.
Governor Dayton signs higher education omnibus bill
On Wednesday afternoon, Governor Dayton signed the omnibus higher education into law. For more details on the impact of this legislation, read the House Research Summary or contact our office.
Governor forces legislature to increase the University's capital funding
At a news conference on Thursday, legislative leadership outlined three issues at the core of negotiations with the governor: taxes, Vikings stadium, and bonding, as well as their expected timeline for the remaining legislative days. The House planned to vote on the bonding bill after the news conference; however, the vote was delayed when the governor's office expressed concerns over the funding disparity between the U of M and MnSCU. Under last week's House bonding proposal, the state would provide $54 million in general obligation bond funding for the University and $106 million for MnSCU.
The Government and Community Relations Office and University leadership are in discussions with legislators and the Governor's office to ensure that the University's needs are addressed in the capital investment bill. The House plans to debate and vote on a bonding bill today and the Senate currently plans to vote on Tuesday. It is still uncertain whether or not the legislation will have the necessary sixty percent of the vote from both legislative bodies.
Final higher education omnibus bill passed by Senate and House
Today, the House and Senate both adopted and passed the conference committee report on SF 1573, the omnibus higher education bill. The Senate voted 50-13 in favor of the bill with much of the opposition centered on the student health care provision. The House voted 75-54 to pass the bill with opposition arising about the provision related to the Minnesota Board of Teaching assessing fees to students for testing. The bill now goes to Governor Dayton.
Below are the provisions included in the final bill that pertain to the University. For a description of all the bill provisions, visit read the House Research bill summary.
Student Health Care
This section states that a post secondary institution must grant a waiver from its required student health insurance plan coverage, if requested, and the student has health plan coverage from another source.
Student Immunizations
This section adds students that are enrolled only in online classes, or evening or weekend adult accelerated programs to the list of students that are not required to receive certain immunizations.
Course Schedules, Materials and Notices to Purchase Textbooks
These sections encourage the University of Minnesota to comply with new laws that request that course scheduling class material lists be available on the university's web site; and provisions that deal with textbooks, prices, and versions of previous editions which may be acceptable for student use.
College Savings Plan
This section makes a technical change to the College Savings Plan.
Mining, Metallurgical or Related Engineering Degree Program
This section reallocates a portion of the Permanent University Fund dollars to establish a mining, metallurgical or related engineering program through the University of Minnesota at Mesabi Range Community and Technical College, and for scholarships for students to attend.
Education Benefit Change for Spouse of Public Safety Officer Killed in the Line of Duty
These sections allow eligible spouses to access funds from this program for graduate education; prior to this change they were only eligible for undergraduate programs.
University of Minnesota Appropriation Transfer
This section states that the University of Minnesota must transfer $645,000 each year of the current biennium to the Hennepin County Medical Center for graduate family medicine education programs.
Teacher Performance Assessment Student Fee
This section provides for a report from the Minnesota Board of Teaching with recommendations for eliminating fees charged to students for the teacher performance assessment.
Liquor bill signed by Governor
Today, Governor Dayton signed the omnibus liquor bill, which allows alcoholic beverages to be sold at the TCF Bank Stadium both in the premium suites and in a separate area convenient for general ticketholders. The Board of Regents will examine the law change and determine how alcohol sales will be managed at TCF Bank Stadium.
House and Senate higher education bills pass
Last week, the House and Senate passed two versions of a higher education omnibus bill. In the Senate, an amendment was proposed to allow two students to be elected to the University's Board of Regents. This amendment previously failed in the Senate Higher Education Committee and did not pass on the Senate floor.
On Thursday, the House voted on their higher education bill. Higher Education Committee Chair Representative Nornes highlighted his bill, which includes several provisions relating to student health care, course materials, and a mining engineering program and forestry research. The bill was passed nearly unanimously, as amended.
A conference committee of five House and five Senate members will reconcile the differences between the versions. Senators Fischbach, Carlson, Miller, Robling, and Tomassoni have been assigned to the conference committee; the House will announce conferees tomorrow.
Alcohol in TCF Stadium
Both the House and Senate have passed the conference committee report of the omnibus liquor bill, which would allow alcoholic beverages to be sold at the TCF Bank Stadium both in the premium suites and in a separate area convenient for general ticketholders. The legislation now awaits action by Governor Dayton, who has indicated that he will sign it. Pending his approval, the Board of Regents will examine the law change and determine how alcohol sales will be managed at TCF Bank Stadium.
Capital investment
While the House and Senate Capital Investment Committees have released their versions of the 2012 bonding bill, no bonding bill has yet passed the House or Senate floors even though the Legislature aims to adjourn by the end of the week. House and Senate versions have been unable to attract enough votes to pass.
However, late on Friday, the House added $221 million to its version of the bill to finance the renovation of the State Capitol. This provision was added in effort to gain enough votes to pass the bill and begin formal negotiations in a conference committee.
President Kaler and the Office of Government And Community Relations continue to meet with legislators to reiterate the University's legislative priorities and needs as the legislature begins to approach the end of the 2012 session.
Roundtable on student loan debt
On Monday, President Kaler took part in a roundtable with Senator Al Franken, Governor Mark Dayton, Minnesota Officer of Higher Education Director Larry Pogemiller, and students from private and public schools in Minnesota to discuss college affordability and student loan debt. The roundtable took place at the U's Science Teaching and Student Services building. View the governor's comments in an MPR article.
Legislation awaits final steps as legislators recess
Last Thursday, legislators recessed for a weeklong spring break. Upon their return, they will be eager to finish their work and adjourn. However, plenty of bills still require action. Here are four bills before the legislature that would impact the University:
-- Higher education omnibus
Both versions of the higher education omnibus bill are waiting to be passed on the House and Senate floors. The versions are similar, but not identical. If the two bodies pass their individual bills, a conference committee will be formed to reconcile the differences.
-- Capital investment
The House and Senate bonding bills are also awaiting floor action in both bodies. Because these bills borrow money they need a super majority of 60% in order to pass; this may be a difficult threshold to achieve do given the political composition of the legislature. If the two bodies pass their individual bills, considerable compromise will be needed in conference committee to achieve final passage. Last week, President Kaler sent letters to legislative leadership and Capital Investment Committee chairs urging them to increase their investment in the University.
-- Alcohol in TCF Bank Stadium
Both the House and Senate passed versions of the omnibus liquor bill, which would allow alcoholic beverages to be sold at the TCF Bank Stadium both in the premium suites and in a separate area convenient for general ticketholders. Legislators will likely be selected next week for a conference committee to settle the minor differences between the two versions.
-- Vikings stadium
A bill proposing a new Vikings NFL stadium on the current Metrodome site continues to work its way through committee in the House. The bill, sponsored by Representative Lanning and Senator Rosen, suggests that the Vikings play home games at TCF Bank Stadium for a season while a new stadium is constructed. The bill seems to face an uphill battle, but remains a priority for Governor Dayton.
-- Invasive species research center
A bill that funds an invasive species research center at the University of Minnesota has passed both the House and Senate. The House version of the bill allocates $3.4 million for hiring new faculty and getting the center up and running, along with $1 million for capital costs. The Senate version has $2.8 million in operational dollars and $1 million for capital startup costs. The two versions now go to conference committee to work out the final bill.
-- IREE funding
The funding outlook for the Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment (IREE) continues to be grim at the legislature. Current legislation moving through the House and Senate redistributes Xcel Energy's Renewable Development Fund and eliminates current annual transfers to IREE. The legislation does allow higher education institutions to apply for grants around research and development of renewable energy, but would offer no certainty around any level of funding. This legislation has passed off of the Senate floor and is awaiting action by the House.
Legislature selects new regent
On Wednesday, April 4, a joint convention of the legislature elected Thomas Devine to the 2nd Congressional District seat on the University's Board of Regents. Regent Devine is a University graduate and a parent of a University freshman. He has served on the executive committee of the University's Greek Village student housing project. Regent Devine will serve out the remainder of former Regent Sviggum's term, which is scheduled to expire in 2017.
Support the U Day
The annual, student-organized Support the U Rally Day was held at the Minnesota State Capitol on Friday, March 30. The systemwide event provided over 300 students the opportunity to support the U's 2012 bonding request. The rally featured remarks by President Kaler and Governor Dayton. Students held meetings with their elected officials and had lunch with President Kaler. More than 100 meetings took place between students and legislators. The students shared personal stories of why they value the U. They expressed support for the U's 2012 bonding request and asked their elected officials to do the same.
Support the U Day featured 'Discover the U' in the capitol rotunda. Exhibits showcased the American Indian Learning Resource Center, Professor Barry Kudrowitz and Toy and Product Design students, the Dairy Lab, the Center for Distributed Robotics, Engineers without Borders, the Immigration History Research Center, the Institute on the Environment, the Raptor Center, and the Center for Transportation Studies. Members of the legislature, legislative staff members, and representatives from the Minnesota Historical Society checked out the exhibits and learned more about the U!
Senate releases bonding bill
On Wednesday, the Senate Capital Investment Committee released its 2012 bonding bill recommendations. The Senate's bill ($496 million) is larger than the House's proposal, but well below the Governors' level of $760 million. The House and Senate have identical levels of support for the University. In a press release, President Kaler addresses the legislature's low level of support and stresses the critical need to fully fund the University's request.
View the comparison of the University, governor, House, and Senate proposals.
House and Senate pass similar higher education omnibus bills
Last week, the House and Senate Higher Education Committees met to craft their omnibus policy bills. Both bills include the following provisions:
The House bill includes a few additional provisions:
House releases bonding bill
On Monday, the House Capital Investment Committee released its 2012 bonding bill recommendations. The bill totals $280 million, $495 million less than the governor's proposal. The committee recommends $39.1 million for the University: $35 million for Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR) and $4.1 million for Itasca Facilities Improvements. The bill does not include funding for the Combined Heat and Power Plant, as included in the governor's proposal. View the comparison of the University, governor, and House proposals.
Governor's supplemental budget increases MERC funding
Governor Dayton unveiled his supplemental budget yesterday. His supplement budget calls for a $44 million increase in FY 2012-2013 general fund spending, offset by a $44 million increase in net revenues over the biennium.
Dayton is proposing raising these general fund revenues by reducing Foreign Operating Corporations tax loopholes and by collecting tax on online purchases used and consumed in Minnesota.
The governor recommends phasing in the restoration of Medical Education Research Costs (MERC) program funding, which compensates hospitals, clinics, and other providers for a portion of the cost of clinical training for health professional students and residents. The supplemental budget restores half of the program funding reduction in FY2013 and fully restores funding starting in FY2014.
Senate Capital Investment Committee tours Combined Heat and Power Plant site
On Friday, March 9, the Senate Capital Investment Committee visited the University's Twin Cities campus to tour the Old Main steam plant, the proposed future site of a combined heat and power plant. The University has requested $54 million in state bonding assistance to help construct the plant, which will provide critical additional energy capacity to the Twin Cities campus. Capital Investment Chair Dave Senjem requested a tour to learn more about this project as the committee considers which projects to include in its 2012 bonding bill.
Along the tour, the committee also inspected a lab in the Mechanical Engineering building to see how Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR) dollars would significantly improve buildings across the University system.
Center for research on aquatic invasive species
President Eric Kaler, Dean Levine, and Professor Peter Sorenson participated in a press conference on Thursday, March 8, to promote a bill introduced by Senator John Carlson. The bill would establish a center for research on aquatic invasive species at the University.
Later that afternoon, the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on the bill, which directs $2.8 million from various sources to create this new interdisciplinary center. Professor Sorensen testified about the need for a scientific approach to address invasive species. His hope is that a dedicated center will allow the University to develop tools for the state to control these issues. This legislation will be heard next in the Senate Finance Committee.
Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment
On March 8, the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications Committee held a hearing on Senator Rosen's bill to redistribute the Renewable Development Fund and eliminate $5 million each year in fund transfers to the Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment (IREE).
The bill was amended slightly and passed to the Senate Finance Committee. The University continues to work with Senator Rosen to find a way to preserve some funding for IREE.
Expanded waiver for mandatory health coverage
Also on March 8, the House Higher Education Committee heard a bill that would require an expanded waiver for mandatory health care coverage at the University. Representative Anderson introduced the bill on behalf of a constituent, a student in the College of Veterinary Medicine who had been denied a waiver for coverage provided through a professional association. After much discussion, the bill was laid over for possible inclusion in an omnibus committee bill. Since the hearing, the University has amended its waiver policy to accommodate the student's situation.
President Kaler testifies on paid leave and severance pay
On Tuesday, March 6, President Kaler was asked by the House Higher Education Committee to discuss recent separation and compensation agreements for senior administrators leaving the University. President Kaler assured legislators that he would rarely grant waivers to existing policies and pledged to consult the Board of Regents about any substantial deviations.
February budget forecast projects $323 million surplus
On Wednesday, February 29, the Minnesota Management & Budget commissioner released the February budget forecast, which predicts a $323 million surplus for the current biennium. State law requires the surplus to be used to replenish the state's budget reserves and then begin to repay recent K-12 education funding shifts. The forecast documents note that even after this repayment the state still owes $2.4 billion toward repaying the school shift.
The forecast also shows a projected deficit of $1.1 billion for fiscal years 2014-15. This is a slight improvement from the November forecast, which showed a $1.3 billion deficit for the next biennium.
Greater Minnesota internship program
On Thursday, March 1, the House Taxes Committee discussed a bill that would provide a tax credit to businesses that hire students for internships to spur employment opportunities in Greater Minnesota. The Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities testified in favor of the bill and argued that this appropriation would decrease the workforce gap between Greater Minnesota and the Metro Area by securing ample job opportunities for Minnesota students across the state. However, several representatives expressed concern regarding the lack of student desire to intern in Greater Minnesota and the tedious labor this tax credit would impose for businesses. The bill was laid on the table.
The companion to this bill in Senate also received a hearing and was passed onto the Senate Committee on Taxes.
House Higher Education hears bills, passes bonding recommendations
On Tuesday, February 28, the House Higher Education Committee considered two bills: one relating to disclosure of course material and the establishment of a MnSCU textbook task force; and one regarding the Permanent University Fund, supporting a mining engineering program and forestry research.
Vice President Robert Jones testified on behalf of the latter bill, stating that the University would remain neutral on the bill until completing further investigation into the viability of an engineering program at one of the University's campuses.
Both bills were laid over for possible inclusion into an omnibus higher education policy bill at a later date.
The committee also passed a resolution on their bonding recommendations onto the Capital Investment Committee.
Vikings proposal suggests one season at TCF stadium
Early last week, Governor Dayton, legislators, the City of Minneapolis, and the Minnesota Vikings announced an agreement on the construction and financing of a new NFL stadium. On Monday, March 12, Senator Rosen introduced legislation reflecting the agreement. The House and Senate are expected to hold committee hearings on the bill while waiting for a majority of the Minneapolis City Council to approve the proposal. This timeline suggests that the Vikings would have to play their home games at TCF Bank Stadium for one season.
House Capital Investment Committee reviews University's capital request
On Wednesday, February 22, President Kaler presented the University's capital request to the House Capital Investment Committee. At the hearing, which was the last of four University capital request presentations to the Legislature, the president provided a brief background of the University's process of determining its legislative request and explained how each of the five projects contribute to the mission of the University.
Also presenting on behalf of the University were College of Biological Sciences undergraduate student Chris Tastad, mechanical engineering professor Dr. Carolyn Hayes, College of Science and Engineering graduate student David Bennett, and College of Liberal Arts undergraduate Marissa Kramer. The committee asked a variety of questions about the University ranging from enrollment to research funding.
Greater Minnesota internship program
On Tuesday, February 21, the House Higher Education Committee considered a bill that would provide a tax credit to businesses in greater Minnesota who hire students for internships and require higher education institutions to provide students with credit for these internships. The legislation states the purpose of the bill is to "employ and provide valuable experience to Minnesota students; and foster long-term relationships between the students and greater Minnesota employers." This bill was initiated by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities and, if implemented, would be administered by the Office of Higher Education. The bill passed out of the committee and was referred to the Tax Committee.
IREE funding revisited
On Thursday, February 23, the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications Committee met for a second hearing regarding the distribution of the Renewable Development Fund (RDF). The committee discussed Senator Julie Rosen's draft legislation, which would eliminate the funding that IREE received from the RDF.
Steve Kelley, senior fellow and director of the Center for Science, Technology, and Public Policy, testified on the importance of the IREE funding to support competitive University grants. Kelley emphasized the high quality of the peer review process that IREE has established for selecting grant proposals. Jon Foley, director of the Institute on the Environment, testified about the critical role that RDF funding plays in renewable energy research at the University of Minnesota.
New legislative district maps unveiled
On Tuesday, February 21, a court-appointed panel released new congressional and legislative district maps for the November 2012 general election. The court appoint the panel to draw the district boundaries after Governor Dayton and the Legislature were unable to compromise on a redistricting plan last session. Over the past several decades, the courts have stepped in to decide the district lines due to the executive and legislative branches not reaching an agreement.
With all 201 Minnesota state legislators up for reelection in November, the new legislative maps will likely trigger members to start the campaign season early. Some new districts pair incumbents of opposing parties against each other, while some pair incumbents of the same party. Additionally, both the House and Senate have a number of open seats. These open seats are sure to be hotly contested as new candidates enter the races and paired incumbents seek new districts.
Legislature reviews University's capital request
On Wednesday, President Kaler presented the University's capital request to the Senate Capital Investment Committee. The president provided a brief background of the University's process of determining its legislative request, and explained how each of the five projects contribute to the mission of the University.
Also presenting on behalf of the University were College of Biological Sciences undergraduate student Chris Tastad, mechanical engineering professor Carolyn Hayes, graduate student David Bennett, and UMD American Indian studies undergraduate Michael Hartley. Due to time constraints, no questions or discussion followed the testimony.
Earlier this month, President Kaler presented the University's capital request to the Senate and House higher education committees. He will appear before the House Capital Investment Committee on Wednesday, which will be the final legislative hearing on the University's capital request..
It is expected that the Senate and House higher education committees will make a formal recommendation on both the University's and MnSCU's capital requests to the respective capital investment committees of both the House and Senate.
View the slideshow presentation.
President Kaler presents his strategic vision for the University
In a presentation to both the House and Senate higher education committees, President Kaler stressed his commitment to the excellence of academic programs and research, access to the University for all qualified Minnesota students, and the economic impact the University has on the state. Following his remarks, the president answered questions from legislators on issues from tuition to the need for research on how to control aquatic invasive species.
Also presenting on behalf of the University was Professor Chris Cramer from the Department of Chemistry and Katie Miron, an undergraduate in the College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences. Professor Cramer highlighted the role of a strong research University to prepare students to successfully enter the workforce. Ms. Miron told the committee how financial aid has allowed her to pursue her dream of becoming an agriculture educator.
View the slideshow presentation and President Kaler's testimony.
Decade of Discovery
The Decade of Discovery initiative, a partnership between the University and Mayo Clinic, was given an informational hearing in the House Health and Human Services Finance Committee on Wednesday. Decade of Discovery's goal is preventing, treating, and ultimately curing diabetes. David Etzwiler, executive director of Decade of Discovery, provided testimony about the work of this collaboration and its impact on Minnesota. Vice president and Medical School dean Aaron Friedman and Dr. Jeanette Ziegenfuss of the Mayo Clinic joined him.
Senate reviews Renewable Development Fund
The Senate Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications Committee held a hearing on the Renewable Development Fund on Thursday, February 16. The committee is currently reviewing and reconsidering how this money is spent. A portion of the fund supports the Institute on Renewable Energy and the Environment (IREE) research and demonstration activities. At the hearing, Richard Hemmingsen, managing director at IREE, testified about the renewable energy research happening at the University as a result of this funding.
President Kaler and deans host agriculture reception for legislative leaders
President Kaler, Dean Allen Levine, Dean Beverly Durgan, and Dean Trevor Ames hosted members of the House and Senate agriculture committees as well as members from the higher education committees at Eastcliff on Monday, February 13. The reception was attended by 34 legislators and four members of the Board of Regents.
President Kaler reinforced the University of Minnesota's commitment to agriculture and the U's unique position to serve Minnesota as the state's only land grant and research university.
Senate recommends Pogemiller as director of the Office of Higher Education
On Wednesday, February 8, the Senate Higher Education Committee unanimously voted to accept Governor Dayton's appointment of Larry Pogemiller to serve as director of the Office of Higher Education. During the confirmation hearing, Director Pogemiller focused on the role of the Office of Higher Education and fielded a variety of legislators' questions.
Earlier that week, President Kaler hosted a dinner at Eastcliff to welcome Director Pogemiller to his new role. The dinner was attended by a variety of facult, and staff, and provided a forum to exchange higher education priorities for both organizations.
2012 Legislative Briefing
Each year, the University's Legislative Briefing offers supporters from around the state a chance to hear about the University's priorities at the Capitol just as the legislative session is ramping up. A record crowd of some 550 attendees packed the McNamara Alumni Center on February 1 to hear President Kaler talk about the U's request for this session. Another 100 tuned in to a live webcast of the event.
President Kaler encouraged the audience to share their own stories about why the U matters and to "aggressively communicate with our legislators and our governor about the importance of our capital request this session." The focus was on the critical importance of each person sharing their stories of how the University of Minnesota has shaped their lives. The last portion of the Legislative Briefing offered a social media tutorial on advocating for the University.
State of the State
Governor Mark Dayton delivered his State of the State Address to a joint meeting of the House and Senate. President Kaler was an invited guest of the governor and was mentioned in the governor's speech. Dayton implored the Legislature to support the state's public higher education systems in order to educate Minnesotans for the jobs of the future.
House and Senate announce legislation deadlines
The House and Senate announced the following committee deadlines for the 2012 session:
March 16: All policy bills must be on the general register, ready for a final floor vote, in at least one of the bodies.
March 23: All policy bills must be on the general register, ready for a final floor vote in both bodies.
March 30: Committees must pass major appropriation and finance bills.
These deadlines do not apply to the committees on capital investment, ways and means, finance, taxes, or rules and administration.
Senate elects Senjem as majority leader; Koch joins higher ed committee
On Tuesday, January 24, the House and Senate convened for the 2012 legislative session. In the Senate, legislators elected David Senjem to replace former Majority Leader Amy Koch. Senator Senjem will continue to chair the Senate Capital Investment Committee in addition to his leadership responsibilities. Senator Koch was reassigned several committees, including higher education.
Center for invasive species research proposed to Lessard-Sams council
On Thursday, January 25, Dr. Peter Sorensen, a University professor, proposed his plan for a center dedicated to developing and implementing new technologies to permanently control aquatic invasive species to the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council. Dr. Sorensen stressed the need for a scientifically based effort to save Minnesota's lakes and rivers from these highly destructive species. Dr. Sorensen emphasized that all species have weaknesses and research can provide the solutions to protect Minnesota waters.
The council was receptive to Dr. Sorensen's message and acknowledged the need for such a center in the state; however members expressed reluctance to commit dollars from the Outdoor Heritage Fund. The University will continue to work with legislators to explore other funding sources.
Higher Education Director Pogemiller appears before House committee
The House Higher Education Committee held a hearing on Thursday, January 25, to hear an agency overview from the newly-appointed Office of Higher Education (OHE) Director and former Senator Larry Pogemiller. Director Pogemiller began with a presentation of the statutory mandated duties of his office, as well as the key findings of Minnesota Measures: 2011 Report on Higher Education Performance. Director Pogemiller continued on to speak about the several challenges and opportunities for higher education and Governor Dayton's vision for Minnesota's higher education system. He reported that the governor believes there is an agenda for higher education that all can agree on and he is excited to be working with new administrations at both the University and MnSCU.
In his presentation, Director Pogemiller emphasized the need for partnerships and collaborations to address three key trends in Minnesota higher education: accessibility and cost, increased pressure for measurable results, and the impending demographic trends that are indicating a shrinking pool of high school graduates.
2012 Legislative Briefing
The University of Minnesota will hold its annual Legislative Briefing at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1, at the McNamara Alumni Center, 200 Oak Street Southeast, Minneapolis. Registration and dinner begin at 5:00 p.m. The Legislative Briefing brings together alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of the University to rally behind the U's legislative priorities. The event will include remarks from University President Eric Kaler. Participants will be encouraged to increase their grassroots advocacy efforts on behalf of the U throughout the legislative session. New this year, attendees will engage in advocacy through social media. University students from around the state will interact with event attendees and share advocacy methods via Facebook, Twitter and through the Support the U website.
Governor recommends capital investment projects
This morning, Governor Dayton released his capital bonding bill proposal at a press conference at the Capitol. Among $775 million worth of projects, Governor Dayton included for the University of Minnesota $20 million for Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR), $54 million for the Combined Heat and Power Plant, and $4.06 million for Itasca Facilities Improvements. This proposal marks a significantly lower than requested HEAPR funding level of $90 million, and excludes two projects entirely, Eddy Hall and Space Optimization, and the American Indian Learning Resource Center. See a list of the governor's recommendations.
In a press release, Vice President for University Services Kathleen O'Brien said, "While Governor Dayton's bonding recommendations for the University of Minnesota fall short of our request, University of Minnesota leadership looks forward to working with him and the Legislature on funding important building and infrastructure projects that will create jobs and enhance the educational experience for University of Minnesota students."
DFLers Dziedzic and Allen win special elections
Last week, Kari Dziedzic and Susan Allen were elected to the legislature by Minneapolis voters. Dziedzic will replace newly appointed Higher Education Director Larry Pogemiller in Senate District 59, which includes the University's Minneapolis campus. Allen will serve District 61B, a seat vacated by Jeff Hayden upon his election to the Minnesota Senate.
November budget forecast projects $876 million surplus
Today, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) released the state's November budget forecast, and to everyone's surprise it projected an $876 million surplus for the 2012-13 biennium. This is good news, since many anticipated a projected shortfall. State law requires that this surplus be added to the state's cash flow account and budget reserves, although there will be pressure on elected officials to reverse the K-12 education funding shifts and provide property tax relief.
The surplus is also good news for the University, in that it marks the first time in many years that we will likely not face additional budget cuts in the current biennium. Also, a balanced budget will allow legislators to focus on passing a capital investment bill when they convene on January 24. However, there remains a projected $1.3 billion deficit for the 2014-15 biennium. Legislators will wait for the next budget forecast in February to take any action.
Visit MMB's website for more information on the state's economy and the budget forecast.
Senate Capital Investment Committee tours capital request projects
The Senate Capital Investment Committee began their statewide tour of proposed capital investment projects in northeastern Minnesota earlier this month. The committee visited UMD, and Chancellor Black gave a presentation on the American Indian Learning Resource Center. This week, the committee traveled to northwestern Minnesota and received a presentation from Professor Dave Biesboer on the Itasca research station facilities improvement project. The committee also stopped at UMC to tour the campus and review HEAPR requests.
Legislative advocacy events
2012 Legislative Briefing
Wednesday, February 1, 6-7:30 p.m.
McNamara Alumni Center
The University's kickoff to the legislative session, attracting hundreds of University advocates, faculty, staff, students, and alumni. The evening features a reception and dinner. University officials introduce the University's legislative agenda and discuss the political landscape.
Register to attend the 2012 University of Minnesota Legislative Briefing.
2012 Support the U Day
April 18, 2012
Minnesota State Capitol
Organized by students throughout the University system. An opportunity for University advocates to mobilize and meet with their elected officials at the Capitol in Saint Paul. The day features a rally in the Capitol rotunda, as well as lunch with elected officials.
Details and registration information forthcoming.
Minnesota Management and Budget commissioner tours 2012 capital request projects
On Tuesday, Commissioner Jim Schowalter and Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) staff visited the University to review the 2012 capital request. This agency is responsible for producing the governor's capital investment proposal and various state financial reports. In addition to hearing a presentation by Vice President Richard Pfutzenreuter and other University staff, the group toured Eddy Hall and viewed the Old Main steam plant.
In past years, the House and Senate Capital Investment Committee members toured the state to visit all project requests. This year, however, the members plan on restricting tours to a few projects due to limited committee budgets. To address this change, Office of Government and Community Relations staff has been meeting with individual members of the committees to discuss the University's request.
| State Share | University Share | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| HEAPR * | $90.0 | -- | $90.0 |
| Old Main Utility Building Renovation | $54.0 | $27.0 | $81.0 |
| Itasca Facilities Improvements * | $4.1 | $2.0 | $6.1 |
| Eddy Hall and Space Optimization | $14.0 | $7.0 | $21.0 |
| American Indian Learning Resource Center * | $7.4 | $3.7 | $11.0 |
| Total | $169.5 | $37.7 | $209.2 |
| * Denotes projects previously brought before the Board of Regents and the legislature. Dollars are in millions and totals are accurate but do not tally with column entires due to rounding. |
|||
The Senate Capital Investment Committee leadership will travel to Duluth on Wednesday to hear about the UMD's American Indian Resource Center and other projects from the city of Duluth.
Senate Transportation Committee learns about 35W bridge research
On Tuesday, the Senate Transportation Committee visited the University's Twin Cities campus to hear presentations from Professor Catherine French and Professor Art Schultz on monitoring bridges through imbedded sensors. The committee learned about the University's research on the new 35W bridge and other work across the state. These presentations prepared the committee for its onsite tour, later in the day, of the new 35W bridge.
State Budget Forecast to be released December 1
Minnesota Management and Budget will be releasing their state budget forecast on December 1. The governor uses the forecast to assemble his supplemental budget proposal for the upcoming legislative session. All indications are that this forecast will show another significant shortfall in revenue for the state, spurring a heated discussion on how to balance the budget. Legislators will likely wait to take action on the budget until the February forecast is released.
Pogemiller leaves Senate for Office of Higher Education
After 30 years in the Minnesota Legislature, Senator Larry Pogemiller was appointed director of the Office of Higher Education by Governor Dayton last week. Pogemiller, a University graduate, represented Senate District 59, which includes the University's Minneapolis campus. A special election for the Senate seat will be held in January.
DFLers Chris Eaton and Jeff Hayden win Senate special elections
This month, Chris Eaton, a Brooklyn Center registered nurse, defeated Republican Cory Jensen in a special election. Eaton received 61 percent of the vote. She replaces former Senator Linda Scheid, who passed away this summer from cancer.
In Minneapolis District 61, Representative Jeff Hayden won the seat vacated by former Senator Linda Berglin. Hayden, with 68 percent of the vote, defeated Green Party candidate Farheen Hakeem. A special election will be held for the open House seat. Hayden occupied the seat for two terms.
Special session adjourns, Governor Dayton signs all bills
Early this morning, the legislature concluded their work, passing twelve budget bills, and adjourned the special session. Governor Dayton signed all twelve bills, effectively ending the state government shutdown. Following statute, the distribution of state funds will resume tomorrow.
View the passed budget bills.
Higher education omnibus bill passes
Last night, the higher education omnibus bill passed the House 71-57 and by a much closer margin in the Senate with 35-29. This bill sets the University's funding for each year of the biennium at $545.3 million. For more details on the provisions in this bill, read yesterday's state relations update.
University receives $88.8 million in capital investment bill
As part of his budget agreement with legislative leaders, Governor Dayton required the legislature to pass a capital investment bill totaling no less than $500 million. Three University projects were included in this capital investment bill (PDF):
Although the University is grateful for Governor Dayton's insistence on a capital investment bill as part of a budget agreement, we are disappointed the legislature did not include two additional requested projects, the Itasca facilities improvements and the American Indian Learning Resource Center at UMD.
Health and human services reductions affect the University
The final agreement for health and human services contained the governor's original budget request for Medical Education and Research Costs (MERC). This includes a 50 percent reduction in payments to the MERC fund for each year of the 2012-13 biennium. In the 2014-15 biennium, half of these cuts would be returned to MERC, leaving a 25 percent total reduction. The University's health professional programs' affiliated training sites represent approximately 63 percent of the total MERC fund distributions, making this a significant reduction for the University.
The bill also eliminated the direct grant payments to the University's Academic Health Center (AHC), the University's Dental School, and the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview. The cut for these direct payments totals $5.35 million. These funds had been used to fund various activities within the AHC, including the dental clinics in Hibbing and Willmar, Area Health Education Center programs throughout the state, and to supplement funding for the Community-University Health Care Center in Minneapolis. We will begin working with our partners in health education to put in place a plan to deal with these reductions, which could have a huge impact on the training of health professionals.
Environment legislation funds eleven University research projects
The environment and natural resources budget bill that was also signed this morning gives $4.247 million in research projects through the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund. The Trust Fund is combination of contributions and investment income, including proceeds from the Minnesota State Lottery. Early in the legislative session, there was a fair amount of controversy about the process the legislature was using to determine which projects would be funded and the role the citizens commission recommendations in this process.
For a list of the eleven projects, view the spreadsheet (PDF).
Governor Dayton calls special session
This morning, Governor Dayton issued a proclamation that calls the Minnesota Legislature into a special session at 3 p.m. today. He did so after signing an agreement with legislative leaders detailing the terms of the special session, which is set to last two days in order to pass twelve bills pertaining to the state's budget. The agreement between the governor and legislative leaders prohibits amendments to the twelve agreed upon bills and prohibits votes on any additional bills. Read the proclamation and agreement (PDF).
Higher education omnibus finance bill
The governor and legislative leaders have agreed to increase higher education funding by $60 million from the omnibus higher education bill that was vetoed in May. Of that $60 million, the University of Minnesota will receive $50 million. This reduces the University's cut in the first year of the biennium by $25 million. Consequently, the University's funding for each year of the biennium will be set at $545.3 million.
The bill requires 1 percent of the 2013 University appropriation be withheld until three of the five performance measures are met and reported to the legislature. In addition, the bill encourages the University to offer a guaranteed tuition plan for undergraduates for four years. The eligibility age for the senior citizens to attend the University at a reduced cost has been lowered from 66 to 62.
The bill repeals two requirements that had been applied to the University and MnSCU:
Finally, two policy provisions that were included in the bill vetoed in May have also been removed:
Read the full higher education omnibus finance bill.
Not all twelve bills have been made been public at this time. A few of these bills, including health and human services, are expected to also impact the University.
President Kaler responds to higher education agreement
In a University news release this afternoon, President Kaler said, "I am grateful for Governor Dayton's leadership in supporting the university and legislative leadership's willingness to reduce the proposed cuts. This helps protect our critical mission of groundbreaking research as Minnesota's only public land-grant university." President Kaler has been interviewed by MinnPost, MPR, and the Minnesota Daily regarding the impacts of this legislation on the University. Read the full news release.
Board of Regents Approves 2012 Preliminary Capital Request
On Thursday, the Board of Regents reviewed and approved the University's 2012 Preliminary State Capital Request to the Minnesota Legislature. The request is composed of seven projects, four projects previously approved by the Board and three new projects, totaling $459,965,000. The request asks the State of Minnesota to contribute $293,310,000, while the University would pay for the remaining $166,655,000. Below is the cost breakdown by project:
| State Share | University Share | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| HEAPR * | $60,000 | $60,000 | |
| Ambulatory Care Clinic | $100,000 | $100,000 | $200,000 |
| American Indian Learning Resource Center * | $7,350 | $3,675 | $11,025 |
| Eddy Hall and Space Optimization | $14,000 | $7,000 | $21,000 |
| Old Main Utility Building Renovation | $54,000 | $27,000 | $81,000 |
| Physics and Nanotechnology * | $53,900 | $26,950 | $80,850 |
| ROC: Itasca Facilities Improvements * | $4,060 | $2,030 | $6,090 |
| Total | $293,310 | $166,655 | $459,965 |
| * Denotes projects previously brought before the Board of Regents and the legislature All costs are in thousands of dollars |
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For a more detailed description of the seven projects, please view the presentation given at last week's Board meeting.
The approval of the preliminary capital request by the Board of Regents is the first of many steps in the capital request process. Each even-numbered year, the University makes a capital request to the legislature for building and infrastructure projects. These projects stem from strategic plans and facility condition assessments, driven by the academic mission of the University. It is important to note that this request is preliminary and may be subject to change. It will come before the Board again in the fall for final approval. It is necessary, however, to identify project priorities at this time in order to submit the preliminary request to the State and gain support at the legislature well in advance of 2012 legislative session.
As mentioned earlier, the Board has previously approved many projects included in this request. In 2010, both the Itasca facilities improvements and the American Indian Learning Resource Center projects were funded by the legislature but vetoed by Governor Pawlenty. The Physics and Nanotechnology project received a portion of the requested funding in 2010, for planning purposes only.
Although 2011 was a budget year, these projects were submitted again this past legislative session in anticipation of a potential capital investment bill. It is still possible that the legislature will pass a capital investment bill as part of a budget agreement with the governor in a special session. If that happens, the University's 2012 capital request will be revised accordingly.
Although a budget agreement at the Capitol remains out of sight, our office continues to monitor the negotiations between the governor and legislative leadership, and meet with legislators in their districts to discuss University priorities.
