Mazorol Tweaking Definition of 'Student,' Lessening License Mandates

Editor's Note: The following legislative update comes from the office of Rep. Pat Mazorol (R-Bloomington). The views expressed are solely his and do not reflect those of Patch.

Dear Neighbors,

As the 2012 legislative session draws closer to adjournment, we in the Legislature remain committed to debating and enhancing legislation that promotes the quality of life that all Minnesotans deserve. Our legislative agenda this session has focused primarily on reform efforts that promote fiscal responsibility, job growth, quality education, and a transparent, accountable state government.

Over the course of the week, the House passed two of my bills that add to these legislative goals. On Monday, legislators unanimously approved the Uniform Electronic Legal Material Act (HF2527), which allows the Revisor of Statutes to make electronically and publicly available the Minnesota Constitution and state statutes, laws, and rules. This electronic collection will serve as the authentic and official record, rather than that which is currently provided on paper. The Minnesota Revisor, Michele Timmons, chairs the Uniform Laws Commission which helped to develop this legislation, and she supports the preservation and streamlining of our records in this manner.

Second, the House unanimously passed my legislation (HF2705) that would lessen regulations for closing agents by exempting licensure mandates for certain professionals. This is simply a reversion to original statute that did not require attorneys and other real estate professionals, who already abide by strict regulations, to require closing agent licensure. The Department of Commerce supports this legislation, as it saves on regulatory costs and makes conducting business in Minnesota less complex.

I have also had legislation incorporated in two larger bills. The Higher Education Omnibus Bill contains a provision that modernizes the definition of “student” for colleges and universities as they gather health immunity records. This bill, as supported by the Minnesota Department of Health, exempts online, evening, and weekend adult accelerated students from submitting these records.

In addition, the Transportation Omnibus Bill contains my legislation which calls for the Department of Public Safety to provide accident report information (such as destruction to highway guard rails during accidents) to MnDOT in order for the department to promptly request insurance collections. MnDOT fully supports this language.

In the coming weeks, I also look forward to debating a substantive bill that adds protections for Minnesota commerce in regard to debt settlement and management providers.

I am pleased that all bills referenced here, and all for which I have been chief author, have generated bi-partisan support.

As always, it is a pleasure and a privilege to serve as your state representative in St. Paul. Please feel free to contact my office at any time.

Sincerely,

Pat