Bob CollinsThe most interesting bills at the Capitol are the ones that have little chance of passage this year. Here’s the Fab Five from today’s filings:
Lower drinking age
Rep. Phyllis Kahn, who in the past has proposed lowering the voting age to 16, has filed legislation lowering the drinking age to 18 at bars and restaurants. She would allow 16 years olds to drink in the company of their parents. (See bill)
Property tax discount
Would you pay your entire year’s property tax if you got a 2 percent discount? Rep. Paul Kohls’ bill would provides such a discount. (See bill)
Majority vote
This could also be called the “Keep the Independence Party from ever Winning an Election Act of 2009.” Rep. Kent Eken’s bill would require candidates in elections for governor, executive branch, judge, senator or representative get the majority of votes in the election. The stronger a third party becomes in Minnesota, the more a provision like this would be employed. (Read bill)
Is the legislative employee carbon footprint that big?
Rep. Denny McNamara’s bill allows legislative employees to work from home for up to 20 percent of the days when the Legislature is not in session or allow them to work four 10-hour days instead. (See bill)
What part of the 2nd Amendment don’t you get?
Rep. Larry Howes is proposing an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution:
The right of a citizen to keep and bear arms for the defense and security of the person, family, or home or for lawful hunting, recreation, or marksmanship training is fundamental and shall not be abridged.
Didn’t the U.S. Supreme Court just clarify that the 2nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution pretty well covers this? (See bill)
