<div class="xtend">
         <div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.1.1"></a><var>1.1</var>A bill for an act<br />
            		
         </div><a id="pl.1.2"></a><var>1.2</var>relating to energy finance; appropriating money for activities of Departments <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.3"></a><var>1.3</var>of Commerce, Natural Resources, and Health, Pollution Control Agency, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.4"></a><var>1.4</var>Public Utilities Commission; providing for grants and fund transfers; modifying <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.5"></a><var>1.5</var>or adding provisions relating to financial institutions, investments of health <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.6"></a><var>1.6</var>savings accounts, mortgage originators, the Vehicle Protection Product Act, <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.7"></a><var>1.7</var>long-term care insurance, automobile insurance, an electronic licensing system <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.8"></a><var>1.8</var>and technology fees, allowable forms of collateral, securities regulation, charges <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.9"></a><var>1.9</var>billed by licensed health professionals, allocation of petroleum inspection fee <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.10"></a><var>1.10</var>for low-income weatherization assistance, delivery of home heating fuel, debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.11"></a><var>1.11</var>management services, the state energy city, energy savings, renewable energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.12"></a><var>1.12</var>research, a renewable hydrogen initiative, the Legislative Electric Energy Task <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.13"></a><var>1.13</var>Force, Clean Energy Resource Teams, landfill gas recovery, on-farm biogas <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.14"></a><var>1.14</var>recovery, nuisance liability of wind energy conversion systems, rural wind <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.15"></a><var>1.15</var>energy, petroleum violation escrow funds for K-12 school energy projects, <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.16"></a><var>1.16</var>renewable energy studies and reports, standards for hydrogen and fuel cells, <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.17"></a><var>1.17</var>hydrogen refueling stations, off-site renewable distributed generation, biofuel <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.18"></a><var>1.18</var>production permits, terrestrial and geologic carbon sequestration, dry cask <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.19"></a><var>1.19</var>storage at a nuclear power plant, utility charges and residential customers, the <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.20"></a><var>1.20</var>cold weather rule, a propane prepurchase program, and intervenor compensation <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.21"></a><var>1.21</var>for participants in proceedings before the Public Utilities Commission; requiring <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.22"></a><var>1.22</var>studies and reports; providing civil penalties; making technical and clarifying <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.23"></a><var>1.23</var>changes;amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 13.712, by adding <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.24"></a><var>1.24</var>a subdivision; 45.011, subdivision 1; 46.04, subdivision 1; 46.05; 46.131, <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.25"></a><var>1.25</var>subdivision 2; 47.19; 47.59, subdivision 6; 47.60, subdivision 2; 47.62, <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.26"></a><var>1.26</var>subdivision 1; 47.75, subdivision 1; 48.15, subdivision 4; 58.04, subdivisions <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.27"></a><var>1.27</var>1, 2; 58.05; 58.06, subdivision 2, by adding a subdivision; 58.08, subdivision <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.28"></a><var>1.28</var>3; 58.10, subdivision 1; 60K.55, subdivision 2; 65B.44, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.29"></a><var>1.29</var>5; 65B.47, subdivision 7; 65B.54, subdivision 1, by adding a subdivision; <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.30"></a><var>1.30</var>80A.28, subdivision 1; 80A.65, subdivision 1; 82.24, subdivisions 1, 4; 82B.09, <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.31"></a><var>1.31</var>subdivision 1; 116C.779, subdivision 2; 118A.03, subdivision 2; 148.102, by <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.32"></a><var>1.32</var>adding a subdivision; 216B.097, subdivisions 1, 3; 216B.098, subdivision 4; <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.33"></a><var>1.33</var>216B.16, subdivisions 10, 15; 216B.241, subdivision 6; 216B.812, subdivisions <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.34"></a><var>1.34</var>1, 2; 216C.051, subdivisions 2, 9; 216C.41, subdivisions 1, 2, 3; 239.101, <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.35"></a><var>1.35</var>subdivision 3; 325E.311, subdivision 6; 325N.01; 332.54, subdivision 7; <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.36"></a><var>1.36</var>proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 1; 16C; 45; 58; <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.37"></a><var>1.37</var>60K; 216B; 216C; 325E; 561; proposing coding for new law as Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.38"></a><var>1.38</var>Statutes, chapters 59C; 332A; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections <br />
         		<a id="pl.1.39"></a><var>1.39</var>46.043; 47.62, subdivision 5; 58.08, subdivision 1; 216B.095; 332.12; 332.13; <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.1"></a><var>2.1</var>332.14; 332.15; 332.16; 332.17; 332.18; 332.19; 332.20; 332.21; 332.22; <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.2"></a><var>2.2</var>332.23; 332.24; 332.25; 332.26; 332.27; 332.28; 332.29; Minnesota Rules, <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.3"></a><var>2.3</var>parts 7831.0100; 7831.0200; 7831.0300; 7831.0400; 7831.0500; 7831.0600; <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.4"></a><var>2.4</var>7831.0700; 7831.0800.<br />
         		<a id="pl.2.5"></a><var>2.5</var>BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.1.0.0"></a><div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.2.6"></a><var>2.6</var><b>ARTICLE 1</b><br />
            		
         </div>
         <div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.2.7"></a><var>2.7</var><b>ENERGY APPROPRIATIONS</b><br />
            		
         </div><br />
         		<a id="bill.1.1.0"></a><table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.8"></a><var>2.8</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="7" align="left" valign="bottom">Section 1. <b> SUMMARY OF APPROPRIATIONS.</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.2.9"></a><var>2.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The amounts shown in this section summarize direct appropriations, by fund, made <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.10"></a><var>2.10</var>in this article.<br />
         		
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.11"></a><var>2.11</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">2008<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">2009<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">Total<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.12"></a><var>2.12</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">General<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">51,752,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">33,518,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">85,270,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.13"></a><var>2.13</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Petroleum Tank Cleanup<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,084,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,084,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">2,168,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.14"></a><var>2.14</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Workers' Compensation<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">835,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">835,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,670,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.15"></a><var>2.15</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Special Revenue<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">5,600,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">4,600,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">10,200,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.16"></a><var>2.16</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Total<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">59,271,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">40,037,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">99,308,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><br />
         		<a id="bill.1.2.0"></a><table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.17"></a><var>2.17</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="7" align="left" valign="bottom">Sec. 2. <b>ENERGY FINANCE APPROPRIATIONS.</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.2.18"></a><var>2.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The sums shown in the columns marked "Appropriations" are appropriated to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.19"></a><var>2.19</var>agencies and for the purposes specified in this article. The appropriations are from the <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.20"></a><var>2.20</var>general fund, or another named fund, and are available for the fiscal years indicated <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.21"></a><var>2.21</var>for each purpose. The figures "2008" and "2009" used in this article mean that the <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.22"></a><var>2.22</var>appropriations listed under them are available for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.23"></a><var>2.23</var>June 30, 2009, respectively. "The first year" is fiscal year 2008. "The second year" is fiscal <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.24"></a><var>2.24</var>year 2009. "The biennium" is fiscal years 2008 and 2009. Appropriations for the fiscal <br />
         		<a id="pl.2.25"></a><var>2.25</var>year ending June 30, 2007, are effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.26"></a><var>2.26</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td colspan="4" align="center" valign="bottom">APPROPRIATIONS<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.27"></a><var>2.27</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td colspan="4" align="center" valign="bottom">Available for the Year<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.28"></a><var>2.28</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td colspan="4" align="center" valign="bottom">Ending June 30<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.29"></a><var>2.29</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">2008<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">2009<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><br />
         		<a id="bill.1.3.0"></a><table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.30"></a><var>2.30</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Sec. 3. <b>DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE.</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom"></td>
            </tr>
         </table>
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.31"></a><var>2.31</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Subdivision 1.<b>Total Appropriation</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">51,721,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">33,695,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table>
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.32"></a><var>2.32</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="center" valign="bottom">Appropriations by Fund<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.33"></a><var>2.33</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">2008<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">2009<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.34"></a><var>2.34</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">General<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">44,202,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">27,176,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.2.35"></a><var>2.35</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Petroleum Cleanup<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,084,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,084,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.1"></a><var>3.1</var><br />
                  		<a id="pl.3.2"></a><var>3.2</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Workers' <br />
                  		Compensation<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">835,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">835,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.3"></a><var>3.3</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Special Revenue<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">5,600,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">4,600,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.3.4"></a><var>3.4</var>The amounts that may be spent for each <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.5"></a><var>3.5</var>purpose are specified in the following <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.6"></a><var>3.6</var>subdivisions.<br />
         		
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.7"></a><var>3.7</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Subd. 2.<b>Financial Examinations</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">6,432,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">6,519,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table>
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.8"></a><var>3.8</var><br />
                  		<a id="pl.3.9"></a><var>3.9</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Subd. 3.<b>Petroleum Tank Release Cleanup </b><br />
                  		<b>Board</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,084,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,084,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.3.10"></a><var>3.10</var>This appropriation is from the petroleum <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.11"></a><var>3.11</var>tank release cleanup fund. <br />
         		
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.12"></a><var>3.12</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Subd. 4.<b>Administrative Services</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">4,477,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">4,540,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table>
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.13"></a><var>3.13</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Subd. 5.<b>Market Assurance</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">6,902,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">6,999,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table>
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.14"></a><var>3.14</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="center" valign="bottom">Appropriations by Fund<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.15"></a><var>3.15</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">General<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">6,067,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">6,164,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.16"></a><var>3.16</var><br />
                  		<a id="pl.3.17"></a><var>3.17</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Workers' <br />
                  		Compensation<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">835,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">835,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table>
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.18"></a><var>3.18</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Subd. 6.<b>Energy and Telecommunications</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">32,726,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">14,453,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table>
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.19"></a><var>3.19</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="center" valign="bottom">Appropriations by Fund<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.20"></a><var>3.20</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">General<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">27,226,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">9,953,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.3.21"></a><var>3.21</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="left" valign="bottom">Special Revenue<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">5,500,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">4,500,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.3.22"></a><var>3.22</var>$2,000,000 the first year and $2,000,000 the <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.23"></a><var>3.23</var>second year are for E85 cost-share grants. <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.24"></a><var>3.24</var>Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.25"></a><var>3.25</var>16A.28, this appropriation is available <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.26"></a><var>3.26</var>until expended. The base appropriation for <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.27"></a><var>3.27</var>these grants is $2,000,000 each year in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.28"></a><var>3.28</var>2010-2011 biennium. Funding for these <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.29"></a><var>3.29</var>grants ends June 30, 2011. Up to ten percent <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.30"></a><var>3.30</var>of the funds may be used for cost-share grants <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.31"></a><var>3.31</var>for pumps dispensing fuel that contains at <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.32"></a><var>3.32</var>least ten percent biodiesel fuel by volume.<br />
         		<a id="pl.3.33"></a><var>3.33</var>The utility subject to Minnesota Statutes, <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.34"></a><var>3.34</var>section 116C.779, shall transfer $2,500,000 <br />
         		<a id="pl.3.35"></a><var>3.35</var>in fiscal year 2008 and $2,500,000 in fiscal <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.1"></a><var>4.1</var>year 2009 to the Department of Commerce <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.2"></a><var>4.2</var>on a schedule to be determined by the <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.3"></a><var>4.3</var>commissioner of commerce. The funds must <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.4"></a><var>4.4</var>be deposited in the special revenue fund <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.5"></a><var>4.5</var>and are appropriated to the commissioner <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.6"></a><var>4.6</var>for grants to promote renewable energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.7"></a><var>4.7</var>projects and community energy outreach and <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.8"></a><var>4.8</var>assistance. Of the amounts identified:<br />
         		<a id="pl.4.9"></a><var>4.9</var>(1) $500,000 each year for capital grants for <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.10"></a><var>4.10</var>on-farm biogas recovery facilities; eligible <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.11"></a><var>4.11</var>projects will be selected in coordination <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.12"></a><var>4.12</var>with the Department of Agriculture and the <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.13"></a><var>4.13</var>Pollution Control Agency;<br />
         		<a id="pl.4.14"></a><var>4.14</var>(2) $500,000 each year to provide financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.15"></a><var>4.15</var>rebates to new solar electricity projects;<br />
         		<a id="pl.4.16"></a><var>4.16</var>(3) $500,000 each year for continued funding <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.17"></a><var>4.17</var>of community energy technical assistance <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.18"></a><var>4.18</var>and outreach on renewable energy and <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.19"></a><var>4.19</var>energy efficiency; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.4.20"></a><var>4.20</var>(4) $1,000,000 each year for technical <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.21"></a><var>4.21</var>analysis and demonstration funding for <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.22"></a><var>4.22</var>automotive technology projects, with a <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.23"></a><var>4.23</var>special focus on plug-in hybrid electric <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.24"></a><var>4.24</var>vehicles.<br />
         		<a id="pl.4.25"></a><var>4.25</var>The utility subject to Minnesota Statutes, <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.26"></a><var>4.26</var>section 116C.779, shall transfer $3,000,000 <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.27"></a><var>4.27</var>in fiscal year 2008 and $2,000,000 in fiscal <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.28"></a><var>4.28</var>year 2009 to the Department of Commerce <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.29"></a><var>4.29</var>on a schedule to be determined by the <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.30"></a><var>4.30</var>commissioner of commerce. The funds must <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.31"></a><var>4.31</var>be deposited in the special revenue fund and <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.32"></a><var>4.32</var>are appropriated to the commissioner for <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.33"></a><var>4.33</var>grants to provide competitive, cost-share <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.34"></a><var>4.34</var>grants to fund renewable energy research in <br />
         		<a id="pl.4.35"></a><var>4.35</var>Minnesota. These grants must be awarded <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.1"></a><var>5.1</var>by a three-member panel made up of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.2"></a><var>5.2</var>commissioners of commerce, pollution <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.3"></a><var>5.3</var>control, and agriculture, or their designees. <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.4"></a><var>5.4</var>Grant applications must be ranked and grants <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.5"></a><var>5.5</var>issued according to how well the applications <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.6"></a><var>5.6</var>meet state energy policy research goals <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.7"></a><var>5.7</var>established by the commissioners, the quality <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.8"></a><var>5.8</var>and experience of the research teams, the <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.9"></a><var>5.9</var>cross-interdisciplinary and cross-institutional <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.10"></a><var>5.10</var>nature of the research teams, and the ability <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.11"></a><var>5.11</var>of the research team to leverage nonstate <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.12"></a><var>5.12</var>funds.<br />
         		<a id="pl.5.13"></a><var>5.13</var>$3,000,000 the second year is for a grant to <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.14"></a><var>5.14</var>the Board of Regents of the University of <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.15"></a><var>5.15</var>Minnesota for the Initiative for Renewable <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.16"></a><var>5.16</var>Energy and the Environment. The grant <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.17"></a><var>5.17</var>is for the purposes set forth in Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.18"></a><var>5.18</var>Statutes, section 216B.241, subdivision 6. <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.19"></a><var>5.19</var>The appropriation is available until spent. <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.20"></a><var>5.20</var>The base budget for this grant to the Board <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.21"></a><var>5.21</var>of Regents of the University of Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.22"></a><var>5.22</var>for the Initiative for Renewable Energy and <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.23"></a><var>5.23</var>the Environment is $5,000,000 each year in <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.24"></a><var>5.24</var>the 2010-2011 fiscal biennium.<br />
         		<a id="pl.5.25"></a><var>5.25</var>As a condition of this grant, beginning in <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.26"></a><var>5.26</var>the 2010-2011 biennium, the Initiative for <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.27"></a><var>5.27</var>Renewable Energy and the Environment <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.28"></a><var>5.28</var>must set aside at least 15 percent of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.29"></a><var>5.29</var>funds received annually under the grant for <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.30"></a><var>5.30</var>qualified projects conducted at a rural campus <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.31"></a><var>5.31</var>or experiment station. Any amount of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.32"></a><var>5.32</var>set aside funds that has not been awarded to <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.33"></a><var>5.33</var>a rural campus or experiment station at the <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.34"></a><var>5.34</var>end of the fiscal year must revert back to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.5.35"></a><var>5.35</var>initiative for its exclusive use.<br />
         		<a id="pl.6.1"></a><var>6.1</var>$10,000,000 the first year is for the renewable <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.2"></a><var>6.2</var>hydrogen initiative in Minnesota Statutes, <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.3"></a><var>6.3</var>section 216B.813, to fund the competitive <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.4"></a><var>6.4</var>grant program included in that section. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.5"></a><var>6.5</var>commissioner may use up to two percent of <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.6"></a><var>6.6</var>the competitive grant program appropriation <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.7"></a><var>6.7</var>for grant administration and to develop and <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.8"></a><var>6.8</var>implement the renewable hydrogen road <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.9"></a><var>6.9</var>map. This is a onetime appropriation and is <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.10"></a><var>6.10</var>available until expended.<br />
         		<a id="pl.6.11"></a><var>6.11</var>$3,100,000 the first year is for deposit in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.12"></a><var>6.12</var>rural wind energy development revolving <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.13"></a><var>6.13</var>loan fund under Minnesota Statutes, section <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.14"></a><var>6.14</var>216C.39. This appropriation does not cancel. <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.15"></a><var>6.15</var>This is a onetime appropriation.<br />
         		<a id="pl.6.16"></a><var>6.16</var>$1,000,000 the first year and $1,000,000 the <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.17"></a><var>6.17</var>second year are for a grant to the Center for <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.18"></a><var>6.18</var>Rural Policy and Development for the rural <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.19"></a><var>6.19</var>wind energy development program in article <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.20"></a><var>6.20</var>3. This is a onetime appropriation and is <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.21"></a><var>6.21</var>available until expended.<br />
         		<a id="pl.6.22"></a><var>6.22</var>$50,000 the first year is a onetime <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.23"></a><var>6.23</var>appropriation for a comprehensive technical, <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.24"></a><var>6.24</var>economic, and environmental analysis of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.25"></a><var>6.25</var>benefits to be derived from greater use in this <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.26"></a><var>6.26</var>state of geothermal heat pump systems for <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.27"></a><var>6.27</var>heating and cooling air and heating water. <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.28"></a><var>6.28</var>The analysis must:<br />
         		<a id="pl.6.29"></a><var>6.29</var>(1) estimate the extent of geothermal heat <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.30"></a><var>6.30</var>pump systems currently installed in this state <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.31"></a><var>6.31</var>in residential, commercial, and institutional <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.32"></a><var>6.32</var>buildings;<br />
         		<a id="pl.6.33"></a><var>6.33</var>(2) estimate energy and economic savings of <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.34"></a><var>6.34</var>geothermal heat pump systems in comparison <br />
         		<a id="pl.6.35"></a><var>6.35</var>with fossil fuel-based heating and cooling <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.1"></a><var>7.1</var>systems, including electricity use, on a <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.2"></a><var>7.2</var>capital cost and life-cycle cost basis, for both <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.3"></a><var>7.3</var>newly constructed and retrofitted residential, <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.4"></a><var>7.4</var>commercial, and institutional buildings;<br />
         		<a id="pl.7.5"></a><var>7.5</var>(3) compare the emission of pollutants and <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.6"></a><var>7.6</var>greenhouse gases from geothermal heat <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.7"></a><var>7.7</var>pump systems and fossil fuel-based heating <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.8"></a><var>7.8</var>and cooling systems;<br />
         		<a id="pl.7.9"></a><var>7.9</var>(4) identify financial assistance available <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.10"></a><var>7.10</var>from state and federal sources and Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.11"></a><var>7.11</var>utilities to defray the costs of installing <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.12"></a><var>7.12</var>geothermal heat pump systems;<br />
         		<a id="pl.7.13"></a><var>7.13</var>(5) identify Minnesota firms currently <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.14"></a><var>7.14</var>manufacturing or installing the physical <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.15"></a><var>7.15</var>components of geothermal heat pump <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.16"></a><var>7.16</var>systems and estimate the economic <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.17"></a><var>7.17</var>development potential in this state if demand <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.18"></a><var>7.18</var>for such systems increases significantly;<br />
         		<a id="pl.7.19"></a><var>7.19</var>(6) identify the barriers to more widespread <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.20"></a><var>7.20</var>adoption of geothermal heat pump systems in <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.21"></a><var>7.21</var>this state and suggest strategies to overcome <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.22"></a><var>7.22</var>those barriers; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.7.23"></a><var>7.23</var>(7) make recommendations for legislative <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.24"></a><var>7.24</var>action.<br />
         		<a id="pl.7.25"></a><var>7.25</var>Not later than March 15, 2008, the <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.26"></a><var>7.26</var>commissioner shall submit the results of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.27"></a><var>7.27</var>analysis in a report to the chairs of the senate <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.28"></a><var>7.28</var>and house of representatives committees <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.29"></a><var>7.29</var>with primary jurisdiction over energy policy.<br />
         		<a id="pl.7.30"></a><var>7.30</var>$45,000 the first year is a onetime <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.31"></a><var>7.31</var>appropriation for a grant to Linden Hills <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.32"></a><var>7.32</var>Power and Light for preliminary engineering <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.33"></a><var>7.33</var>design work and other technical and legal <br />
         		<a id="pl.7.34"></a><var>7.34</var>services required for a community digester <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.1"></a><var>8.1</var>and neighborhood district heating and <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.2"></a><var>8.2</var>cooling system demonstration project in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.3"></a><var>8.3</var>Linden Hills neighborhood of Minneapolis. <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.4"></a><var>8.4</var>Funds may be expended upon a determination <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.5"></a><var>8.5</var>by the commissioner of commerce that the <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.6"></a><var>8.6</var>project is technically and economically <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.7"></a><var>8.7</var>feasible. A portion of the appropriation <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.8"></a><var>8.8</var>may be used to expand the scope of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.9"></a><var>8.9</var>project feasibility study to include portions <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.10"></a><var>8.10</var>of adjacent communities including St. Louis <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.11"></a><var>8.11</var>Park and Edina.<br />
         		<a id="pl.8.12"></a><var>8.12</var>$3,000,000 the first year is for the purpose <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.13"></a><var>8.13</var>of the propane prepurchase program under <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.14"></a><var>8.14</var>Minnesota Statutes, section 216B.0951. This <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.15"></a><var>8.15</var>is a onetime appropriation and is available <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.16"></a><var>8.16</var>for the biennium.<br />
         		<a id="pl.8.17"></a><var>8.17</var>$4,000,000 the first year is for a onetime <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.18"></a><var>8.18</var>grant to the St. Paul Port Authority for <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.19"></a><var>8.19</var>environmental review and permitting, <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.20"></a><var>8.20</var>preliminary engineering, and development of <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.21"></a><var>8.21</var>a steam-producing facility to be located in <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.22"></a><var>8.22</var>St. Paul using fuels consistent with eligible <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.23"></a><var>8.23</var>energy technologies as defined in Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.24"></a><var>8.24</var>Statutes, section 216B.1691.<br />
         		<a id="pl.8.25"></a><var>8.25</var>Grant funds for the project may only <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.26"></a><var>8.26</var>be expended when the commissioner of <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.27"></a><var>8.27</var>commerce has reviewed and approved a <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.28"></a><var>8.28</var>project plan that includes the following <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.29"></a><var>8.29</var>elements:<br />
         		<a id="pl.8.30"></a><var>8.30</var>(i) total project cost estimates;<br />
         		<a id="pl.8.31"></a><var>8.31</var>(ii) cost estimates for project design and <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.32"></a><var>8.32</var>engineering tasks;<br />
         		<a id="pl.8.33"></a><var>8.33</var>(iii) a preliminary plan for fuel source <br />
         		<a id="pl.8.34"></a><var>8.34</var>procurement from a renewable energy source <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.1"></a><var>9.1</var>as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.2"></a><var>9.2</var>216B.243, subdivision 3a; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.9.3"></a><var>9.3</var>(iv) a preliminary financing plan for the <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.4"></a><var>9.4</var>entire project.<br />
         		<a id="pl.9.5"></a><var>9.5</var>$150,000 the first year is appropriated to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.6"></a><var>9.6</var>commissioner of commerce for grants for <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.7"></a><var>9.7</var>demonstration projects of electric vehicles <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.8"></a><var>9.8</var>with advanced transmission technologies <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.9"></a><var>9.9</var>incorporating, if feasible, batteries, <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.10"></a><var>9.10</var>converters, and other components developed <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.11"></a><var>9.11</var>in Minnesota. Funds may be expended <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.12"></a><var>9.12</var>under the grants only if grantees enter into <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.13"></a><var>9.13</var>agreements specifying that commercial <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.14"></a><var>9.14</var>production of these vehicles and components <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.15"></a><var>9.15</var>will, to the extent possible, take place in <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.16"></a><var>9.16</var>Minnesota.<br />
         		
         <table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.9.17"></a><var>9.17</var><br />
                  		<a id="pl.9.18"></a><var>9.18</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Subd. 7.<b>Telecommunications Access </b><br />
                  		<b>Minnesota</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">100,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom"></td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">100,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.9.19"></a><var>9.19</var>$100,000 the first year and $100,000 <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.20"></a><var>9.20</var>the second year are appropriated to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.21"></a><var>9.21</var>commissioner of commerce for transfer <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.22"></a><var>9.22</var>to the commissioner of human services to <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.23"></a><var>9.23</var>supplement the ongoing operational expenses <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.24"></a><var>9.24</var>of the Minnesota Commission Serving <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.25"></a><var>9.25</var>Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing People. This <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.26"></a><var>9.26</var>appropriation is from the telecommunication <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.27"></a><var>9.27</var>access Minnesota fund, and is added to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.28"></a><var>9.28</var>commission's base.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.1.4.0"></a><table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.9.29"></a><var>9.29</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Sec. 4. <b>PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">5,315,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">5,342,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><br />
         		<a id="bill.1.5.0"></a><table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.9.30"></a><var>9.30</var><br />
                  		<a id="pl.9.31"></a><var>9.31</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Sec. 5. <b>DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL </b><br />
                  		<b>RESOURCES</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">535,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">0<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.9.32"></a><var>9.32</var>$475,000 the first year is a onetime <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.33"></a><var>9.33</var>appropriation for terrestrial and geologic <br />
         		<a id="pl.9.34"></a><var>9.34</var>carbon sequestration reports and studies in <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.1"></a><var>10.1</var>article 4. Of this amount, the commissioner <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.2"></a><var>10.2</var>shall make payments of $385,000 to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.3"></a><var>10.3</var>Board of Regents of the University of <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.4"></a><var>10.4</var>Minnesota for the purposes of terrestrial <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.5"></a><var>10.5</var>carbon sequestration activities, and $90,000 <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.6"></a><var>10.6</var>to the Minnesota Geological Survey for the <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.7"></a><var>10.7</var>purposes of geologic carbon sequestration <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.8"></a><var>10.8</var>assessment.<br />
         		<a id="pl.10.9"></a><var>10.9</var>$60,000 the first year is a onetime <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.10"></a><var>10.10</var>appropriation to the commissioner of natural <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.11"></a><var>10.11</var>resources to conduct a feasibility study <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.12"></a><var>10.12</var>in conjunction with U.S. Army Corps of <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.13"></a><var>10.13</var>Engineers on the foundation and hydraulics <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.14"></a><var>10.14</var>of the Rapidan Dam in Blue Earth County. <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.15"></a><var>10.15</var>This appropriation must be equally matched <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.16"></a><var>10.16</var>by Blue Earth County, and is available until <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.17"></a><var>10.17</var>expended.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.1.6.0"></a><table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.10.18"></a><var>10.18</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Sec. 6. <b>POLLUTION CONTROL AGENCY</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">700,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">0<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.10.19"></a><var>10.19</var>$400,000 the first year is a onetime <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.20"></a><var>10.20</var>appropriation for a grant to the Koochiching <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.21"></a><var>10.21</var>Economic Development Authority for <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.22"></a><var>10.22</var>a feasibility study for a plasma torch <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.23"></a><var>10.23</var>gasification facility that converts municipal <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.24"></a><var>10.24</var>solid waste into energy and slag.<br />
         		<a id="pl.10.25"></a><var>10.25</var>$300,000 the first year is for the biomass <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.26"></a><var>10.26</var>gasification facilities air emissions study for <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.27"></a><var>10.27</var>the purpose of fully characterizing the air <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.28"></a><var>10.28</var>emissions exerted from biomass gasification <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.29"></a><var>10.29</var>facilities across a range of feedstocks. This <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.30"></a><var>10.30</var>is a onetime appropriation.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.1.7.0"></a><table width="100%">
            <tr>
               <td><a id="pl.10.31"></a><var>10.31</var><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td colspan="3" align="left" valign="bottom">Sec. 7. <b>DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH</b><br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,000,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="center" valign="bottom">$<br />
                  		
               </td>
               <td align="right" valign="bottom">1,000,000<br />
                  		
               </td>
            </tr>
         </table><a id="pl.10.32"></a><var>10.32</var>$1,000,000 the first year and $1,000,000 <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.33"></a><var>10.33</var>the second year are appropriated to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.10.34"></a><var>10.34</var>commissioner of health for grants for lead <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.1"></a><var>11.1</var>environmental risk assessment conducted <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.2"></a><var>11.2</var>by local units of government, as required <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.3"></a><var>11.3</var>under Minnesota Statutes, section 144.9504, <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.4"></a><var>11.4</var>subdivision 2, and lead cleanup. Of <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.5"></a><var>11.5</var>these amounts, $500,000 the first year <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.6"></a><var>11.6</var>and $500,000 the second year must be <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.7"></a><var>11.7</var>awarded to the federally designated nonprofit <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.8"></a><var>11.8</var>organization operating the Clear Corps <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.9"></a><var>11.9</var>program. This is a onetime appropriation.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.0.0"></a><div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.11.10"></a><var>11.10</var><b>ARTICLE 2</b><br />
            		
         </div>
         <div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.11.11"></a><var>11.11</var><b>COMMERCE</b><br />
            		
         </div><br />
         		<a id="bill.2.1.0"></a><a id="pl.11.12"></a><var>11.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 13.712, is amended by adding a <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.13"></a><var>11.13</var>subdivision to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.11.14"></a><var>11.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Vehicle protection product warrantors.</b> Financial information provided <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.15"></a><var>11.15</var>to the commissioner of commerce by vehicle protection product warrantors is classified <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.16"></a><var>11.16</var>under section 59C.05, subdivision 3.<br />
         		<a id="pl.11.17"></a><var>11.17</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.2.0"></a><a id="pl.11.18"></a><var>11.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 45.011, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.11.19"></a><var>11.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Scope.</b> As used in chapters 45 to 83, 155A,  332, 332A, 345, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.20"></a><var>11.20</var>359, and sections 
         <statute_ref>325D.30</statute_ref> to 
         <statute_ref>325D.42</statute_ref>, 
         <statute_ref>326.83</statute_ref> to 
         <statute_ref>326.991</statute_ref>, and 
         <statute_ref>386.61</statute_ref> to 
         <statute_ref>386.78</statute_ref>, unless <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.21"></a><var>11.21</var>the context indicates otherwise, the terms defined in this section have the meanings given <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.22"></a><var>11.22</var>them. <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.23"></a><var>11.23</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.3.0"></a><a id="pl.11.24"></a><var>11.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 3. <b>[45.24] LICENSE TECHNOLOGY FEES.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.11.25"></a><var>11.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The commissioner may establish and maintain an electronic licensing database <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.26"></a><var>11.26</var>system for license origination, renewal, and tracking the completion of continuing <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.27"></a><var>11.27</var>education requirements by individual licensees who have continuing education <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.28"></a><var>11.28</var>requirements, and other related purposes.<br />
         		<a id="pl.11.29"></a><var>11.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The commissioner shall pay for the cost of operating and maintaining the <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.30"></a><var>11.30</var>electronic database system described in paragraph (a) through a technology surcharge <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.31"></a><var>11.31</var>imposed upon the fee for license origination and renewal, for individual licenses that <br />
         		<a id="pl.11.32"></a><var>11.32</var>require continuing education.<br />
         		<a id="pl.12.1"></a><var>12.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The surcharge permitted under paragraph (b) shall be up to $40 for each two-year <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.2"></a><var>12.2</var>licensing period, except as otherwise provided in paragraph (f), and shall be payable at the <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.3"></a><var>12.3</var>time of license origination and renewal.<br />
         		<a id="pl.12.4"></a><var>12.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) The Commerce Department technology account is hereby created as an account <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.5"></a><var>12.5</var>in the special revenue fund.<br />
         		<a id="pl.12.6"></a><var>12.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) The commissioner shall deposit the surcharge permitted under this section in <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.7"></a><var>12.7</var>the account created in paragraph (d), and funds in the account are appropriated to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.8"></a><var>12.8</var>commissioner in the amounts needed for purposes of this section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.12.9"></a><var>12.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) The commissioner shall temporarily reduce or suspend the surcharge as necessary <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.10"></a><var>12.10</var>if the balance in the account created in paragraph (d) exceeds $2,000,000 as of the end of <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.11"></a><var>12.11</var>any calendar year and shall increase or decrease the surcharge as necessary to keep the <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.12"></a><var>12.12</var>fund balance at an adequate level but not in excess of $2,000,000.<br />
         		<a id="pl.12.13"></a><var>12.13</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.4.0"></a><a id="pl.12.14"></a><var>12.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 46.04, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.12.15"></a><var>12.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>General.</b> The commissioner of commerce, referred to in chapters <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.16"></a><var>12.16</var>46 to 59A, and ~~sections~~ 
         <statute_ref>~~332.12~~</statute_ref> ~~to~~ 
         <statute_ref>~~332.29~~</statute_ref> chapter 332A, as the commissioner, is vested <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.17"></a><var>12.17</var>with all the powers, authority, and privileges which, prior to the enactment of Laws 1909, <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.18"></a><var>12.18</var>chapter 201, were conferred by law upon the public examiner, and shall take over all <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.19"></a><var>12.19</var>duties in relation to state banks, savings banks, trust companies, savings associations, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.20"></a><var>12.20</var>other financial institutions within the state which, prior to the enactment of chapter 201, <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.21"></a><var>12.21</var>were imposed upon the public examiner. The commissioner of commerce shall exercise <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.22"></a><var>12.22</var>a constant supervision, either personally or through the examiners herein provided for, <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.23"></a><var>12.23</var>over the books and affairs of all state banks, savings banks, trust companies, savings <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.24"></a><var>12.24</var>associations, credit unions, industrial loan and thrift companies, and other financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.25"></a><var>12.25</var>institutions doing business within this state; and shall, through examiners, examine each <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.26"></a><var>12.26</var>financial institution at least once every 24 calendar months. In satisfying this examination <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.27"></a><var>12.27</var>requirement, the commissioner may accept reports of examination prepared by a federal <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.28"></a><var>12.28</var>agency having comparable supervisory powers and examination procedures. With the <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.29"></a><var>12.29</var>exception of industrial loan and thrift companies which do not have deposit liabilities <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.30"></a><var>12.30</var>and licensed regulated lenders, it shall be the principal purpose of these examinations to <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.31"></a><var>12.31</var>inspect and verify the assets and liabilities of each and so far investigate the character <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.32"></a><var>12.32</var>and value of the assets of each institution as to determine with reasonable certainty that <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.33"></a><var>12.33</var>the values are correctly carried on its books. Assets and liabilities shall be verified in <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.34"></a><var>12.34</var>accordance with methods of procedure which the commissioner may determine to be <br />
         		<a id="pl.12.35"></a><var>12.35</var>adequate to carry out the intentions of this section. It shall be the further purpose of <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.1"></a><var>13.1</var>these examinations to assess the adequacy of capital protection and the capacity of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.2"></a><var>13.2</var>institution to meet usual and reasonably anticipated deposit withdrawals and other cash <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.3"></a><var>13.3</var>commitments without resorting to excessive borrowing or sale of assets at a significant <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.4"></a><var>13.4</var>loss, and to investigate each institution's compliance with applicable laws and rules. Based <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.5"></a><var>13.5</var>on the examination findings, the commissioner shall make a determination as to whether <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.6"></a><var>13.6</var>the institution is being operated in a safe and sound manner. None of the above provisions <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.7"></a><var>13.7</var>limits the commissioner in making additional examinations as deemed necessary or <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.8"></a><var>13.8</var>advisable. The commissioner shall investigate the methods of operation and conduct of <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.9"></a><var>13.9</var>these institutions and their systems of accounting, to ascertain whether these methods and <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.10"></a><var>13.10</var>systems are in accordance with law and sound banking principles. The commissioner may <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.11"></a><var>13.11</var>make requirements as to records as deemed necessary to facilitate the carrying out of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.12"></a><var>13.12</var>commissioner's duties and to properly protect the public interest. The commissioner may <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.13"></a><var>13.13</var>examine, or cause to be examined by these examiners, on oath, any officer, director, <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.14"></a><var>13.14</var>trustee, owner, agent, clerk, customer, or depositor of any financial institution touching <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.15"></a><var>13.15</var>the affairs and business thereof, and may issue, or cause to be issued by the examiners, <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.16"></a><var>13.16</var>subpoenas, and administer, or cause to be administered by the examiners, oaths. In <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.17"></a><var>13.17</var>case of any refusal to obey any subpoena issued under the commissioner's direction, <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.18"></a><var>13.18</var>the refusal may at once be reported to the district court of the district in which the bank <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.19"></a><var>13.19</var>or other financial institution is located, and this court shall enforce obedience to these <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.20"></a><var>13.20</var>subpoenas in the manner provided by law for enforcing obedience to subpoenas of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.21"></a><var>13.21</var>court. In all matters relating to official duties, the commissioner of commerce has the <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.22"></a><var>13.22</var>power possessed by courts of law to issue subpoenas and cause them to be served and <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.23"></a><var>13.23</var>enforced, and all officers, directors, trustees, and employees of state banks, savings banks, <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.24"></a><var>13.24</var>trust companies, savings associations, and other financial institutions within the state, <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.25"></a><var>13.25</var>and all persons having dealings with or knowledge of the affairs or methods of these <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.26"></a><var>13.26</var>institutions, shall afford reasonable facilities for these examinations, make returns and <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.27"></a><var>13.27</var>reports to the commissioner of commerce as the commissioner may require; attend and <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.28"></a><var>13.28</var>answer, under oath, the commissioner's lawful inquiries; produce and exhibit any books, <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.29"></a><var>13.29</var>accounts, documents, and property as the commissioner may desire to inspect, and in all <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.30"></a><var>13.30</var>things aid the commissioner in the performance of duties. <br />
         		<a id="pl.13.31"></a><var>13.31</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.5.0"></a><a id="pl.13.32"></a><var>13.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 46.05, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.13.33"></a><var>13.33</var><b>46.05 SUPERVISION OVER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.14.1"></a><var>14.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Every state bank, savings bank, trust company, savings association, debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.2"></a><var>14.2</var>management services provider, and other financial institutions shall be at all times under <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.3"></a><var>14.3</var>the supervision and subject to the control of the commissioner of commerce. If, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.4"></a><var>14.4</var>whenever in the performance of duties, the commissioner finds it necessary to make a <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.5"></a><var>14.5</var>special investigation of any financial institution under the commissioner's supervision, <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.6"></a><var>14.6</var>and other than a complete examination, the commissioner shall make a charge therefor to <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.7"></a><var>14.7</var>include only the necessary costs thereof. Such a fee shall be payable to the commissioner <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.8"></a><var>14.8</var>on the commissioner's making a request for payment.<br />
         		<a id="pl.14.9"></a><var>14.9</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.6.0"></a><a id="pl.14.10"></a><var>14.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 46.131, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.14.11"></a><var>14.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Assessment authority.</b> Each bank, trust company, savings bank, savings <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.12"></a><var>14.12</var>association, regulated lender, industrial loan and thrift company, credit union, motor <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.13"></a><var>14.13</var>vehicle sales finance company, debt ~~prorating agency~~ management services provider and <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.14"></a><var>14.14</var>insurance premium finance company organized under the laws of this state or required <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.15"></a><var>14.15</var>to be administered by the commissioner of commerce shall pay into the state treasury its <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.16"></a><var>14.16</var>proportionate share of the cost of maintaining the Department of Commerce.<br />
         		<a id="pl.14.17"></a><var>14.17</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.7.0"></a><a id="pl.14.18"></a><var>14.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 47.19, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.14.19"></a><var>14.19</var><b>47.19 CORPORATION MAY BE MEMBER OR STOCKHOLDER OF </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.14.20"></a><var>14.20</var><b>FEDERAL AGENCY.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.14.21"></a><var>14.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Any corporation is hereby empowered and authorized to become a member of, <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.22"></a><var>14.22</var>or stockholder in, any such agency, and to that end to purchase stock in, or securities <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.23"></a><var>14.23</var>of, or deposit money with, such agency and/or to comply with any other conditions of <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.24"></a><var>14.24</var>membership or credit; to borrow money from such agency upon such rates of interest, not <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.25"></a><var>14.25</var>exceeding the contract rate of interest in this state, and upon such terms and conditions <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.26"></a><var>14.26</var>as may be agreed upon by such corporation and such agency, for the purpose of making <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.27"></a><var>14.27</var>loans, paying withdrawals, paying maturities, paying debts, and for any other purpose not <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.28"></a><var>14.28</var>inconsistent with the objects of the corporation; provided, that the aggregate amount of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.29"></a><var>14.29</var>indebtedness, so incurred by such corporation, which shall be outstanding at any time shall <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.30"></a><var>14.30</var>not exceed ~~25~~ 35 percent of the then total assets of the corporation; to assign, pledge and <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.31"></a><var>14.31</var>hypothecate its bonds, mortgages or other assets; and, in case of savings associations, to <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.32"></a><var>14.32</var>repledge with such agency the shares of stock in such association which any owner thereof <br />
         		<a id="pl.14.33"></a><var>14.33</var>may have pledged as collateral security, without obtaining the consent thereunto of such <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.1"></a><var>15.1</var>owner, as security for the repayment of the indebtedness so created by such corporation <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.2"></a><var>15.2</var>and as evidenced by its note or other evidence of indebtedness given for such borrowed <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.3"></a><var>15.3</var>money; and to do any and all things which shall or may be necessary or convenient in <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.4"></a><var>15.4</var>order to comply with and to obtain the benefits of the provisions of any act of Congress <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.5"></a><var>15.5</var>creating such agency, or any amendments thereto.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.8.0"></a><a id="pl.15.6"></a><var>15.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 47.59, subdivision 6, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.7"></a><var>15.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Additional charges.</b> (a) For purposes of this subdivision, "financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.8"></a><var>15.8</var>institution" includes a person described in subdivision 4, paragraph (a). In addition to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.9"></a><var>15.9</var>finance charges permitted by this section, a financial institution may contract for and <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.10"></a><var>15.10</var>receive the following additional charges that may be included in the principal amount <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.11"></a><var>15.11</var>of the loan or credit sale unpaid balances:<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.12"></a><var>15.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) official fees and taxes;<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.13"></a><var>15.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) charges for insurance as described in paragraph (b);<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.14"></a><var>15.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) with respect to a loan or credit sale contract secured by real estate, the following <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.15"></a><var>15.15</var>"closing costs," if they are bona fide, reasonable in amount, and not for the purpose of <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.16"></a><var>15.16</var>circumvention or evasion of this section:<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.17"></a><var>15.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) fees or premiums for title examination, abstract of title, title insurance, surveys, <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.18"></a><var>15.18</var>or similar purposes;<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.19"></a><var>15.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) fees for preparation of a deed, mortgage, settlement statement, or other <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.20"></a><var>15.20</var>documents, if not paid to the financial institution;<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.21"></a><var>15.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) escrows for future payments of taxes, including assessments for improvements, <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.22"></a><var>15.22</var>insurance, and water, sewer, and land rents;<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.23"></a><var>15.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) fees for notarizing deeds and other documents;<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.24"></a><var>15.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(v) appraisal and credit report fees; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.25"></a><var>15.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(vi) fees for determining whether any portion of the property is located in a flood <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.26"></a><var>15.26</var>zone and fees for ongoing monitoring of the property to determine changes, if any, <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.27"></a><var>15.27</var>in flood zone status;<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.28"></a><var>15.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) a delinquency charge on a payment, including the minimum payment due in <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.29"></a><var>15.29</var>connection with open-end credit, not paid in full on or before the tenth day after its due <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.30"></a><var>15.30</var>date in an amount not to exceed five percent of the amount of the payment or $5.20, <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.31"></a><var>15.31</var>whichever is greater;<br />
         		<a id="pl.15.32"></a><var>15.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) for a returned check or returned automatic payment withdrawal request, an <br />
         		<a id="pl.15.33"></a><var>15.33</var>amount not in excess of the service charge limitation in section 
         <statute_ref>604.113, except that, on <br />
            		<a id="pl.15.34"></a><var>15.34</var>a loan transaction that is a consumer small loan as defined in section 47.60, subdivision <br />
            		<a id="pl.15.35"></a><var>15.35</var>1, paragraph (a), in which cash is advanced in exchange for a personal check, the civil <br />
            		<a id="pl.16.1"></a><var>16.1</var>penalty provisions of section 604.113, subdivision 2, paragraph (b), may not be demanded <br />
            		<a id="pl.16.2"></a><var>16.2</var>or assessed against the borrower
         </statute_ref>; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.3"></a><var>16.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) charges for other benefits, including insurance, conferred on the borrower that <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.4"></a><var>16.4</var>are of a type that is not for credit.<br />
         		<a id="pl.16.5"></a><var>16.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) An additional charge may be made for insurance written in connection with the <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.6"></a><var>16.6</var>loan or credit sale contract, which may be included in the principal amount of the loan or <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.7"></a><var>16.7</var>credit sale unpaid balances:<br />
         		<a id="pl.16.8"></a><var>16.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) with respect to insurance against loss of or damage to property, or against <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.9"></a><var>16.9</var>liability arising out of the ownership or use of property, if the financial institution furnishes <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.10"></a><var>16.10</var>a clear, conspicuous, and specific statement in writing to the borrower setting forth the <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.11"></a><var>16.11</var>cost of the insurance if obtained from or through the financial institution and stating that <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.12"></a><var>16.12</var>the borrower may choose the person through whom the insurance is to be obtained;<br />
         		<a id="pl.16.13"></a><var>16.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) with respect to credit insurance or mortgage insurance providing life, accident, <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.14"></a><var>16.14</var>health, or unemployment coverage, if the insurance coverage is not required by the <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.15"></a><var>16.15</var>financial institution, and this fact is clearly and conspicuously disclosed in writing to <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.16"></a><var>16.16</var>the borrower, and the borrower gives specific, dated, and separately signed affirmative <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.17"></a><var>16.17</var>written indication of the borrower's desire to do so after written disclosure to the borrower <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.18"></a><var>16.18</var>of the cost of the insurance; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.16.19"></a><var>16.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) with respect to the vendor's single interest insurance, but only (i) to the extent <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.20"></a><var>16.20</var>that the insurer has no right of subrogation against the borrower; and (ii) to the extent that <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.21"></a><var>16.21</var>the insurance does not duplicate the coverage of other insurance under which loss is <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.22"></a><var>16.22</var>payable to the financial institution as its interest may appear, against loss of or damage <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.23"></a><var>16.23</var>to property for which a separate charge is made to the borrower according to clause (1); <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.24"></a><var>16.24</var>and (iii) if a clear, conspicuous, and specific statement in writing is furnished by the <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.25"></a><var>16.25</var>financial institution to the borrower setting forth the cost of the insurance if obtained from <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.26"></a><var>16.26</var>or through the financial institution and stating that the borrower may choose the person <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.27"></a><var>16.27</var>through whom the insurance is to be obtained.<br />
         		<a id="pl.16.28"></a><var>16.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) In addition to the finance charges and other additional charges permitted by <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.29"></a><var>16.29</var>this section, a financial institution may contract for and receive the following additional <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.30"></a><var>16.30</var>charges in connection with open-end credit, which may be included in the principal <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.31"></a><var>16.31</var>amount of the loan or balance upon which the finance charge is computed:<br />
         		<a id="pl.16.32"></a><var>16.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) annual charges, not to exceed $50 per annum, payable in advance, for the <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.33"></a><var>16.33</var>privilege of opening and maintaining open-end credit;<br />
         		<a id="pl.16.34"></a><var>16.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) charges for the use of an automated teller machine;<br />
         		<a id="pl.16.35"></a><var>16.35</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) charges for any monthly or other periodic payment period in which the borrower <br />
         		<a id="pl.16.36"></a><var>16.36</var>has exceeded or, except for the financial institution's dishonor would have exceeded, <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.1"></a><var>17.1</var>the maximum approved credit limit, in an amount not in excess of the service charge <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.2"></a><var>17.2</var>permitted in section 
         <statute_ref>604.113</statute_ref>; <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.3"></a><var>17.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) charges for obtaining a cash advance in an amount not to exceed the service <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.4"></a><var>17.4</var>charge permitted in section 
         <statute_ref>604.113</statute_ref>; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.5"></a><var>17.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) charges for check and draft copies and for the replacement of lost or stolen <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.6"></a><var>17.6</var>credit cards.<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.7"></a><var>17.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) In addition to the finance charges and other additional charges permitted by this <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.8"></a><var>17.8</var>section, a financial institution may contract for and receive a onetime loan administrative <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.9"></a><var>17.9</var>fee not exceeding $25 in connection with closed-end credit, which may be included in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.10"></a><var>17.10</var>principal balance upon which the finance charge is computed. This paragraph applies only <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.11"></a><var>17.11</var>to closed-end credit in an original principal amount of $4,320 or less. The determination <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.12"></a><var>17.12</var>of an original principal amount must exclude the administrative fee contracted for and <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.13"></a><var>17.13</var>received according to this paragraph.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.9.0"></a><a id="pl.17.14"></a><var>17.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 9. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 47.60, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.15"></a><var>17.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Authorization, terms, conditions, and prohibitions.</b> (a) In lieu of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.16"></a><var>17.16</var>interest, finance charges, or fees in any other law, a consumer small loan lender may <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.17"></a><var>17.17</var>charge the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.18"></a><var>17.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) on any amount up to and including $50, a charge of $5.50 may be added;<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.19"></a><var>17.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) on amounts in excess of $50, but not more than $100, a charge may be added <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.20"></a><var>17.20</var>equal to ten percent of the loan proceeds plus a $5 administrative fee;<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.21"></a><var>17.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) on amounts in excess of $100, but not more than $250, a charge may be <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.22"></a><var>17.22</var>added equal to seven percent of the loan proceeds with a minimum of $10 plus a $5 <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.23"></a><var>17.23</var>administrative fee;<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.24"></a><var>17.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) for amounts in excess of $250 and not greater than the maximum in subdivision <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.25"></a><var>17.25</var>1, paragraph (a), a charge may be added equal to six percent of the loan proceeds with a <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.26"></a><var>17.26</var>minimum of $17.50 plus a $5 administrative fee.<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.27"></a><var>17.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The term of a loan made under this section shall be for no more than 30 calendar <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.28"></a><var>17.28</var>days.<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.29"></a><var>17.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) After maturity, the contract rate must not exceed 
         <statute_ref>2.75</statute_ref> percent per month of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.30"></a><var>17.30</var>remaining loan proceeds after the maturity date calculated at a rate of 1/30 of the monthly <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.31"></a><var>17.31</var>rate in the contract for each calendar day the balance is outstanding. <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.32"></a><var>17.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) No insurance charges or other charges must be permitted to be charged, collected, <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.33"></a><var>17.33</var>or imposed on a consumer small loan except as authorized in this section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.17.34"></a><var>17.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) On a loan transaction in which cash is advanced in exchange for a personal <br />
         		<a id="pl.17.35"></a><var>17.35</var>check, a return check charge may be charged as authorized by section 
         <statute_ref>604.113, subdivision <br />
            		<a id="pl.18.1"></a><var>18.1</var>2
         </statute_ref>, paragraph (a). The civil penalty provisions of section 604.113, subdivision 2, paragraph <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.2"></a><var>18.2</var>(b), may not be demanded or assessed against the borrower. <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.3"></a><var>18.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) A loan made under this section must not be repaid by the proceeds of another <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.4"></a><var>18.4</var>loan made under this section by the same lender or related interest. The proceeds from a <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.5"></a><var>18.5</var>loan made under this section must not be applied to another loan from the same lender or <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.6"></a><var>18.6</var>related interest. No loan to a single borrower made pursuant to this section shall be split or <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.7"></a><var>18.7</var>divided and no single borrower shall have outstanding more than one loan with the result <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.8"></a><var>18.8</var>of collecting a higher charge than permitted by this section or in an aggregate amount of <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.9"></a><var>18.9</var>principal exceed at any one time the maximum of $350.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.10.0"></a><a id="pl.18.10"></a><var>18.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 47.62, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.18.11"></a><var>18.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>General authority.</b> Any person may establish and maintain one <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.12"></a><var>18.12</var>or more electronic financial terminals. Any financial institution may provide for its <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.13"></a><var>18.13</var>customers the use of an electronic financial terminal by entering into an agreement with <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.14"></a><var>18.14</var>any person who has established and maintains one or more electronic financial terminals if <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.15"></a><var>18.15</var>that person authorizes use of the electronic financial terminal to all financial institutions <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.16"></a><var>18.16</var>on a nondiscriminatory basis pursuant to section 
         <statute_ref>47.64</statute_ref>. ~~Electronic financial terminals to~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.17"></a><var>18.17</var>~~be established and maintained in this state by financial institutions located in states other~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.18"></a><var>18.18</var>~~than Minnesota must file a notification to the commissioner as required in this section.~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.19"></a><var>18.19</var>~~The notification may be in the form lawfully required by the state regulator responsible~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.20"></a><var>18.20</var>~~for the examination and supervision of that financial institution. If there is no such~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.21"></a><var>18.21</var>~~requirement, then notification must be in the form required by this section for Minnesota~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.22"></a><var>18.22</var>~~financial institutions.~~ <br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.11.0"></a><a id="pl.18.23"></a><var>18.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 11. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 47.75, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.18.24"></a><var>18.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Retirement, health savings, and medical savings accounts.</b> (a) A <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.25"></a><var>18.25</var>commercial bank, savings bank, savings association, credit union, or industrial loan and <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.26"></a><var>18.26</var>thrift company may act as trustee or custodian:<br />
         		<a id="pl.18.27"></a><var>18.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) under the Federal Self-Employed Individual Tax Retirement Act of 1962, as <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.28"></a><var>18.28</var>amended;<br />
         		<a id="pl.18.29"></a><var>18.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) of a medical savings account under the Federal Health Insurance Portability and <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.30"></a><var>18.30</var>Accountability Act of 1996, as amended;<br />
         		<a id="pl.18.31"></a><var>18.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) of a health savings account under the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.32"></a><var>18.32</var>and Modernization Act of 2003, as amended; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.18.33"></a><var>18.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) under the Federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as <br />
         		<a id="pl.18.34"></a><var>18.34</var>amended.<br />
         		<a id="pl.19.1"></a><var>19.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The trustee or custodian may accept the trust funds if the funds are invested <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.2"></a><var>19.2</var>only in savings accounts or time deposits in the commercial bank, savings bank, savings <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.3"></a><var>19.3</var>association, credit union, or industrial loan and thrift company, except that health savings <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.4"></a><var>19.4</var>accounts may also be invested in transaction accounts. Health savings accounts invested in <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.5"></a><var>19.5</var>transaction accounts shall not be subject to the restrictions in section 48.512, subdivision <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.6"></a><var>19.6</var>3. All funds held in the fiduciary capacity may be commingled by the financial institution <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.7"></a><var>19.7</var>in the conduct of its business, but individual records shall be maintained by the fiduciary <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.8"></a><var>19.8</var>for each participant and shall show in detail all transactions engaged under authority <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.9"></a><var>19.9</var>of this subdivision.<br />
         		<a id="pl.19.10"></a><var>19.10</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b> This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.12.0"></a><a id="pl.19.11"></a><var>19.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 12. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 48.15, subdivision 4, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.19.12"></a><var>19.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Retirement, health savings, and medical savings accounts.</b> (a) A state <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.13"></a><var>19.13</var>bank may act as trustee or custodian:<br />
         		<a id="pl.19.14"></a><var>19.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) of a self-employed retirement plan under the Federal Self-Employed Individual <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.15"></a><var>19.15</var>Tax Retirement Act of 1962, as amended;<br />
         		<a id="pl.19.16"></a><var>19.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) of a medical savings account under the Federal Health Insurance Portability and <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.17"></a><var>19.17</var>Accountability Act of 1996, as amended;<br />
         		<a id="pl.19.18"></a><var>19.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) of a health savings account under the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.19"></a><var>19.19</var>and Modernization Act of 2003, as amended; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.19.20"></a><var>19.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) of an individual retirement account under the Federal Employee Retirement <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.21"></a><var>19.21</var>Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, if the bank's duties as trustee or custodian are <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.22"></a><var>19.22</var>essentially ministerial or custodial in nature and the funds are invested only (i) in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.23"></a><var>19.23</var>bank's own savings or time deposits, except that health savings accounts may also be <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.24"></a><var>19.24</var>invested in transaction accounts. Health savings accounts invested in transaction accounts <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.25"></a><var>19.25</var>shall not be subject to the restrictions in section 48.512, subdivision 3; or (ii) in any <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.26"></a><var>19.26</var>other assets at the direction of the customer if the bank does not exercise any investment <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.27"></a><var>19.27</var>discretion, invest the funds in collective investment funds administered by it, or provide <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.28"></a><var>19.28</var>any investment advice with respect to those account assets.<br />
         		<a id="pl.19.29"></a><var>19.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Affiliated discount brokers may be utilized by the bank acting as trustee or <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.30"></a><var>19.30</var>custodian for self-directed IRAs, if specifically authorized and directed in appropriate <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.31"></a><var>19.31</var>documents. The relationship between the affiliated broker and the bank must be fully <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.32"></a><var>19.32</var>disclosed. Brokerage commissions to be charged to the IRA by the affiliated broker should <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.33"></a><var>19.33</var>be accurately disclosed. Provisions should be made for disclosure of any changes in <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.34"></a><var>19.34</var>commission rates prior to their becoming effective. The affiliated broker may not provide <br />
         		<a id="pl.19.35"></a><var>19.35</var>investment advice to the customer.<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.1"></a><var>20.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) All funds held in the fiduciary capacity may be commingled by the financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.2"></a><var>20.2</var>institution in the conduct of its business, but individual records shall be maintained by <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.3"></a><var>20.3</var>the fiduciary for each participant and shall show in detail all transactions engaged under <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.4"></a><var>20.4</var>authority of this subdivision.<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.5"></a><var>20.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) The authority granted by this section is in addition to, and not limited by, section <br />
         		
         <statute_ref><a id="pl.20.6"></a><var>20.6</var>47.75
         </statute_ref>.<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.7"></a><var>20.7</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE. </b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.13.0"></a><a id="pl.20.8"></a><var>20.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 13. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 58.04, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.9"></a><var>20.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Residential mortgage originator licensing requirements.</b> (a) <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.10"></a><var>20.10</var>~~Beginning August 1, 1999,~~ No person shall act as a residential mortgage originator, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.11"></a><var>20.11</var>make residential mortgage loans without first obtaining a license from the commissioner <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.12"></a><var>20.12</var>according to the licensing procedures provided in this chapter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.13"></a><var>20.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A licensee must be either a partnership, limited liability partnership, association, <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.14"></a><var>20.14</var>limited liability company, corporation, or other form of business organization, and must <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.15"></a><var>20.15</var>have and maintain at all times one of the following: approval as a mortgagee by either the <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.16"></a><var>20.16</var>federal Department of Housing and Urban Development or the Federal National Mortgage <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.17"></a><var>20.17</var>Association; a minimum net worth, net of intangibles, of at least $250,000; or a surety bond <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.18"></a><var>20.18</var>or irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of $100,000. Net worth, net of intangibles, <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.19"></a><var>20.19</var>must be calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.20"></a><var>20.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The following persons are exempt from the residential mortgage originator <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.21"></a><var>20.21</var>licensing requirements:<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.22"></a><var>20.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(1) an employee of one mortgage originator licensee or one person holding a~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.23"></a><var>20.23</var>~~certificate of exemption;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.24"></a><var>20.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(2) a person licensed as a real estate broker under chapter 82 who is not licensed to~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.25"></a><var>20.25</var>~~another real estate broker;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.26"></a><var>20.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(3) an individual real estate licensee who is licensed to a real estate broker as~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.27"></a><var>20.27</var>~~described in clause (2) if:~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.28"></a><var>20.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(i) the individual licensee acts only under the name, authority, and supervision of the~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.29"></a><var>20.29</var>~~broker to whom the licensee is licensed;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.30"></a><var>20.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(ii) the broker to whom the licensee is licensed obtains a certificate of exemption~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.31"></a><var>20.31</var>~~according to section~~ 
         <statute_ref>~~58.05, subdivision 2~~</statute_ref>~~;~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.32"></a><var>20.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(iii) the broker does not collect an advance fee for its residential mortgage-related~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.33"></a><var>20.33</var>~~activities; and~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.20.34"></a><var>20.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(iv) the residential mortgage origination activities are incidental to the real estate~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.20.35"></a><var>20.35</var>~~licensee's primary activities as a real estate broker or salesperson;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.1"></a><var>21.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(4) an individual licensed as a property/casualty or life/health insurance agent under~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.2"></a><var>21.2</var>~~chapter 60K if:~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.3"></a><var>21.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(i) the insurance agent acts on behalf of only one residential mortgage originator,~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.4"></a><var>21.4</var>~~which is in compliance with chapter 58;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.5"></a><var>21.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(ii) the insurance agent has entered into a written contract with the mortgage~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.6"></a><var>21.6</var>~~originator under the terms of which the mortgage originator agrees to accept responsibility~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.7"></a><var>21.7</var>~~for the insurance agent's residential mortgage-related activities;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.8"></a><var>21.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(iii) the insurance agent obtains a certificate of exemption under section~~ 
         <statute_ref>~~58.05,~~ <br />
            		<a id="pl.21.9"></a><var>21.9</var>~~subdivision 2~~
         </statute_ref>~~; and~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.10"></a><var>21.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(iv) the insurance agent does not collect an advance fee for the insurance agent's~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.11"></a><var>21.11</var>~~residential mortgage-related activities;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.12"></a><var>21.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(5)~~ (1) a person who is not in the business of making residential mortgage loans and <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.13"></a><var>21.13</var>who makes no more than three such loans, with its own funds, during any 12-month period;<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.14"></a><var>21.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(6)~~ (2) a financial institution as defined in section 
         <statute_ref>58.02, subdivision 10</statute_ref>; <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.15"></a><var>21.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(7)~~ (3) an agency of the federal government, or of a state or municipal government;<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.16"></a><var>21.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(8)~~ (4) an employee or employer pension plan making loans only to its participants;<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.17"></a><var>21.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(9)~~ (5) a person acting in a fiduciary capacity, such as a trustee or receiver, as a result <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.18"></a><var>21.18</var>of a specific order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.19"></a><var>21.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(10)~~ (6) a person exempted by order of the commissioner.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.14.0"></a><a id="pl.21.20"></a><var>21.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 14. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 58.04, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.21"></a><var>21.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Residential mortgage servicer licensing requirements.</b> (a) ~~Beginning~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.22"></a><var>21.22</var>~~August 1, 1999,~~ No person shall engage in activities or practices that fall within the <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.23"></a><var>21.23</var>definition of "servicing a residential mortgage loan" under section 
         <statute_ref>58.02, subdivision <br />
            		<a id="pl.21.24"></a><var>21.24</var>22
         </statute_ref>, without first obtaining a license from the commissioner according to the licensing <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.25"></a><var>21.25</var>procedures provided in this chapter. <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.26"></a><var>21.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The following persons are exempt from the residential mortgage servicer <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.27"></a><var>21.27</var>licensing requirements:<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.28"></a><var>21.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) a person licensed as a residential mortgage originator;<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.29"></a><var>21.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(2) an employee of one licensee or one person holding a certificate of exemption~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.30"></a><var>21.30</var>~~based on an exemption under this subdivision;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.31"></a><var>21.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(3)~~ (2) a person servicing loans made with ~~its~~ the person's own funds, if no more <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.32"></a><var>21.32</var>than three such loans are made in any 12-month period;<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.33"></a><var>21.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(4)~~ (3) a financial institution as defined in section 
         <statute_ref>58.02, subdivision 10</statute_ref>; <br />
         		<a id="pl.21.34"></a><var>21.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(5)~~ (4) an agency of the federal government, or of a state or municipal government;<br />
         		<a id="pl.21.35"></a><var>21.35</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(6)~~ (5) an employee or employer pension plan making loans only to its participants;<br />
         		<a id="pl.22.1"></a><var>22.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(7)~~ (6) a person acting in a fiduciary capacity, such as a trustee or receiver, as a result <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.2"></a><var>22.2</var>of a specific order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.22.3"></a><var>22.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(8)~~ (7) a person exempted by order of the commissioner.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.15.0"></a><a id="pl.22.4"></a><var>22.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 15. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 58.05, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.22.5"></a><var>22.5</var><b>58.05 EXEMPTIONS FROM LICENSE.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.22.6"></a><var>22.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Exempt person.</b> An exempt person as defined by section 
         <statute_ref>58.04, <br />
            		<a id="pl.22.7"></a><var>22.7</var>subdivision 1
         </statute_ref>, paragraph ~~(b)~~ (c), and subdivision 2, paragraph (b), is exempt from the <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.8"></a><var>22.8</var>licensing requirements of this chapter, but is subject to all other provisions of this chapter. <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.9"></a><var>22.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Certificate of exemption.</b> A person must obtain a certificate of exemption <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.10"></a><var>22.10</var>from the commissioner to qualify as an exempt person under section 
         <statute_ref>58.04, subdivision <br />
            		<a id="pl.22.11"></a><var>22.11</var>1
         </statute_ref>, paragraph ~~(b)~~ (c), ~~as a real estate broker under clause (2), an insurance agent under~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.12"></a><var>22.12</var>~~clause (4),~~ a financial institution under clause ~~(6)~~ (2), or by order of the commissioner <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.13"></a><var>22.13</var>under clause ~~(10)~~ (6); or under section 
         <statute_ref>58.04, subdivision 2</statute_ref>, paragraph (b), as a financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.14"></a><var>22.14</var>institution under clause ~~(4)~~ (3), or by order of the commissioner under clause ~~(8)~~ (7). <br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.16.0"></a><a id="pl.22.15"></a><var>22.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 16. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 58.06, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.22.16"></a><var>22.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Application contents.</b> (a) The application must contain the name and <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.17"></a><var>22.17</var>complete business address or addresses of the license applicant. ~~If~~ The license applicant ~~is~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.18"></a><var>22.18</var>must be a partnership, limited liability partnership, association, limited liability company, <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.19"></a><var>22.19</var>corporation, or other form of business organization, and the application must contain the <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.20"></a><var>22.20</var>names and complete business addresses of each partner, member, director, and principal <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.21"></a><var>22.21</var>officer. The application must also include a description of the activities of the license <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.22"></a><var>22.22</var>applicant, in the detail and for the periods the commissioner may require.<br />
         		<a id="pl.22.23"></a><var>22.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) An applicant must submit one of the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.22.24"></a><var>22.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) evidence which shows, to the commissioner's satisfaction, that either the federal <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.25"></a><var>22.25</var>Department of Housing and Urban Development or the Federal National Mortgage <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.26"></a><var>22.26</var>Association has approved the applicant as a mortgagee;<br />
         		<a id="pl.22.27"></a><var>22.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) a surety bond or irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of not less than <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.28"></a><var>22.28</var>$100,000 in a form approved by the commissioner, issued by an insurance company <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.29"></a><var>22.29</var>or bank authorized to do so in this state. The bond or irrevocable letter of credit must <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.30"></a><var>22.30</var>be available for the recovery of expenses, fines, and fees levied by the commissioner <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.31"></a><var>22.31</var>under this chapter and for losses incurred by borrowers. The bond or letter of credit must <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.32"></a><var>22.32</var>be submitted with the license application, and evidence of continued coverage must be <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.33"></a><var>22.33</var>submitted with each renewal. Any change in the bond or letter of credit must be submitted <br />
         		<a id="pl.22.34"></a><var>22.34</var>for approval by the commissioner within ten days of its execution; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.1"></a><var>23.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) a copy of the applicant's most recent audited financial statement, including <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.2"></a><var>23.2</var>balance sheet, statement of income or loss, statements of changes in shareholder equity, <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.3"></a><var>23.3</var>and statement of changes in financial position. Financial statements must be as of a date <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.4"></a><var>23.4</var>within 12 months of the date of application.<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.5"></a><var>23.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The application must also include all of the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.6"></a><var>23.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(a)~~ (1) an affirmation under oath that the applicant:<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.7"></a><var>23.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(1) will maintain competent staff and adequate staffing levels, through direct~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.8"></a><var>23.8</var>~~employees or otherwise, to meet the requirements of this chapter;~~ (i) is in compliance <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.9"></a><var>23.9</var>with the requirements of section 58.125;<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.10"></a><var>23.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) will maintain a perpetual roster of individuals employed as residential mortgage <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.11"></a><var>23.11</var>originators, including employees and independent contractors, which includes the date that <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.12"></a><var>23.12</var>mandatory initial education was completed. In addition, the roster must be made available <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.13"></a><var>23.13</var>to the commissioner on demand, within three business days of the commissioner's request;<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.14"></a><var>23.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(2)~~ (iii) will advise the commissioner of any material changes to the information <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.15"></a><var>23.15</var>submitted in the most recent application within ten days of the change;<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.16"></a><var>23.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(3)~~ (iv) will advise the commissioner in writing immediately of any bankruptcy <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.17"></a><var>23.17</var>petitions filed against or by the applicant or licensee;<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.18"></a><var>23.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(4) is financially solvent;~~ (v) will maintain at all times either a net worth, net of <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.19"></a><var>23.19</var>intangibles, of at least $250,000 or a surety bond or irrevocable letter of credit in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.20"></a><var>23.20</var>amount of at least $100,000;<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.21"></a><var>23.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(5)~~ (vi) complies with federal and state tax laws; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.22"></a><var>23.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(6)~~ (vii) complies with sections 
         <statute_ref>345.31</statute_ref> to 
         <statute_ref>345.60</statute_ref>, the Minnesota unclaimed property <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.23"></a><var>23.23</var>law; ~~and~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.24"></a><var>23.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(7) is, or that a person in control of the license applicant is, at least 18 years of age;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.25"></a><var>23.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(b)~~ (2) information as to the mortgage lending, servicing, or brokering experience <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.26"></a><var>23.26</var>of the applicant and persons in control of the applicant;<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.27"></a><var>23.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(c)~~ (3) information as to criminal convictions, excluding traffic violations, of persons <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.28"></a><var>23.28</var>in control of the license applicant;<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.29"></a><var>23.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(d)~~ (4) whether a court of competent jurisdiction has found that the applicant or <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.30"></a><var>23.30</var>persons in control of the applicant have engaged in conduct evidencing gross negligence, <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.31"></a><var>23.31</var>fraud, misrepresentation, or deceit in performing an act for which a license is required <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.32"></a><var>23.32</var>under this chapter;<br />
         		<a id="pl.23.33"></a><var>23.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(e)~~ (5) whether the applicant or persons in control of the applicant have been the <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.34"></a><var>23.34</var>subject of: an order of suspension or revocation, cease and desist order, or injunctive <br />
         		<a id="pl.23.35"></a><var>23.35</var>order, or order barring involvement in an industry or profession issued by this or another <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.1"></a><var>24.1</var>state or federal regulatory agency or by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.2"></a><var>24.2</var>within the ten-year period immediately preceding submission of the application; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.3"></a><var>24.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(f)~~ (6) other information required by the commissioner.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.17.0"></a><a id="pl.24.4"></a><var>24.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 17. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 58.06, is amended by adding a subdivision <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.5"></a><var>24.5</var>to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.6"></a><var>24.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Waiver.</b> The commissioner may, for good cause shown, waive any <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.7"></a><var>24.7</var>requirement of this section with respect to any license application or to permit a license <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.8"></a><var>24.8</var>applicant to submit substituted information in its license application in lieu of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.9"></a><var>24.9</var>information required by this section.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.18.0"></a><a id="pl.24.10"></a><var>24.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 18. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 58.08, subdivision 3, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.11"></a><var>24.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Exemption.</b> ~~Subdivisions 1 and~~ Subdivision 2 ~~do~~ does not apply to <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.12"></a><var>24.12</var>mortgage originators or mortgage servicers who are approved as seller/servicers by the <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.13"></a><var>24.13</var>Federal National Mortgage Association or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.19.0"></a><a id="pl.24.14"></a><var>24.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 19. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 58.10, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.15"></a><var>24.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Amounts.</b> The following fees must be paid to the commissioner:<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.16"></a><var>24.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) for an initial residential mortgage originator license, ~~$850~~ $2,550, $50 of which <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.17"></a><var>24.17</var>is credited to the consumer education account in the special revenue fund;<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.18"></a><var>24.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) for a renewal license, ~~$450~~ $1,350, $50 of which is credited to the consumer <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.19"></a><var>24.19</var>education account in the special revenue fund;<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.20"></a><var>24.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) for an initial residential mortgage servicer's license, $1,000;<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.21"></a><var>24.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) for a renewal license, $500; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.24.22"></a><var>24.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) for a certificate of exemption, $100.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.20.0"></a><a id="pl.24.23"></a><var>24.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 20. <b>[58.115] EXAMINATIONS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.24.24"></a><var>24.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The commissioner has under this chapter the same powers with respect to <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.25"></a><var>24.25</var>examinations that the commissioner has under section 46.04, including the authority to <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.26"></a><var>24.26</var>charge for the direct costs of the examination, including travel and per diem expenses.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.21.0"></a><a id="pl.24.27"></a><var>24.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 21. <b>[58.126] EDUCATION REQUIREMENT.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.24.28"></a><var>24.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No individual shall engage in residential mortgage origination or make residential <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.29"></a><var>24.29</var>mortgage loans, whether as an employee or independent contractor, before the completion <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.30"></a><var>24.30</var>of 15 hours of educational training which has been approved by the commissioner, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.24.31"></a><var>24.31</var>covering state and federal laws concerning residential mortgage lending.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.22.0"></a><a id="pl.25.1"></a><var>25.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 22. <b>[59C.01] SHORT TITLE.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.25.2"></a><var>25.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This chapter may be cited as the Vehicle Protection Product Act.<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.3"></a><var>25.3</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.23.0"></a><a id="pl.25.4"></a><var>25.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 23. <b>[59C.02] DEFINITIONS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.25.5"></a><var>25.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Terms.</b> For purposes of this chapter, the terms defined in subdivisions <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.6"></a><var>25.6</var>2 to 11 have the meanings given them.<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.7"></a><var>25.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Administrator.</b> "Administrator" means a third party other than the <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.8"></a><var>25.8</var>warrantor who is designated by the warrantor to be responsible for the administration <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.9"></a><var>25.9</var>of vehicle protection product warranties.<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.10"></a><var>25.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Commissioner.</b> "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce.<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.11"></a><var>25.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Department.</b> "Department" means the Department of Commerce.<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.12"></a><var>25.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Incidental costs.</b> "Incidental costs" means expenses specified in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.13"></a><var>25.13</var>warranty incurred by the warranty holder related to the failure of the vehicle protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.14"></a><var>25.14</var>product to perform as provided in the warranty. Incidental costs may include, without <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.15"></a><var>25.15</var>limitation, insurance policy deductibles, rental vehicle charges, the difference between the <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.16"></a><var>25.16</var>actual value of the stolen vehicle at the time of theft and the cost of a replacement vehicle, <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.17"></a><var>25.17</var>sales taxes, registration fees, transaction fees, and mechanical inspection fees.<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.18"></a><var>25.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Service contract.</b> "Service contract" means a contract or agreement as <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.19"></a><var>25.19</var>regulated under chapter 59B.<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.20"></a><var>25.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 7. <b>Vehicle protection product.</b> "Vehicle protection product" means a vehicle <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.21"></a><var>25.21</var>protection device, system, or service that:<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.22"></a><var>25.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) is installed on or applied to a vehicle;<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.23"></a><var>25.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) is designed to prevent loss or damage to a vehicle from a specific cause; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.24"></a><var>25.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) includes a written warranty. <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.25"></a><var>25.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For purposes of this section, vehicle protection product includes, without limitation, <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.26"></a><var>25.26</var>alarm systems; body part marking products; steering locks; window etch products; pedal <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.27"></a><var>25.27</var>and ignition locks; fuel and ignition kill switches; and electronic, radio, and satellite <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.28"></a><var>25.28</var>tracking devices.<br />
         		<a id="pl.25.29"></a><var>25.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 8. <b>Vehicle protection product warranty or warranty.</b> "Vehicle protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.30"></a><var>25.30</var>product warranty" or "warranty" means, for the purposes of this chapter, a written <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.31"></a><var>25.31</var>agreement by a warrantor that provides if the vehicle protection product fails to prevent <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.32"></a><var>25.32</var>loss or damage to a vehicle from a specific cause, that the warranty holder must be <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.33"></a><var>25.33</var>paid specified incidental costs by the warrantor as a result of the failure of the vehicle <br />
         		<a id="pl.25.34"></a><var>25.34</var>protection product to perform pursuant to the terms of the warranty.<br />
         		<a id="pl.26.1"></a><var>26.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 9. <b>Vehicle protection product warrantor or warrantor.</b> "Vehicle protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.2"></a><var>26.2</var>product warrantor" or "warrantor," for the purposes of this chapter, means a person who is <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.3"></a><var>26.3</var>contractually obligated to the warranty holder under the terms of the vehicle protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.4"></a><var>26.4</var>product warranty agreement. Warrantor does not include an authorized insurer providing a <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.5"></a><var>26.5</var>warranty reimbursement insurance policy.<br />
         		<a id="pl.26.6"></a><var>26.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 10. <b>Warranty holder.</b> "Warranty holder," for the purposes of this chapter, <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.7"></a><var>26.7</var>means the person who purchases a vehicle protection product or who is a permitted <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.8"></a><var>26.8</var>transferee.<br />
         		<a id="pl.26.9"></a><var>26.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 11. <b>Warranty reimbursement insurance policy.</b> "Warranty reimbursement <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.10"></a><var>26.10</var>insurance policy" means a policy of insurance that is issued to the vehicle protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.11"></a><var>26.11</var>product warrantor to provide reimbursement to, or to pay on behalf of, the warrantor all <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.12"></a><var>26.12</var>covered contractual obligations incurred by the warrantor under the terms and conditions <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.13"></a><var>26.13</var>of the insured vehicle protection product warranties sold by the warrantor.<br />
         		<a id="pl.26.14"></a><var>26.14</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.24.0"></a><a id="pl.26.15"></a><var>26.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 24. <b>[59C.03] SCOPE AND EXEMPTIONS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.26.16"></a><var>26.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) No vehicle protection product may be sold or offered for sale in this state unless <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.17"></a><var>26.17</var>the seller, warrantor, and administrator, if any, comply with the provisions of this chapter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.26.18"></a><var>26.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Vehicle protection product warrantors and related vehicle protection product <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.19"></a><var>26.19</var>sellers and warranty administrators complying with this chapter are not required to comply <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.20"></a><var>26.20</var>with and are not subject to any other provision of chapters 59B to 72A, except that section <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.21"></a><var>26.21</var>72A.20, subdivision 38, shall apply to vehicle protection product warranties in the same <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.22"></a><var>26.22</var>manner it applies to service contracts.<br />
         		<a id="pl.26.23"></a><var>26.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Service contract providers who do not sell vehicle protection products are not <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.24"></a><var>26.24</var>subject to the requirements of this chapter and sales of vehicle protection products are <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.25"></a><var>26.25</var>exempt from the requirements of chapter 59B.<br />
         		<a id="pl.26.26"></a><var>26.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Warranties, indemnity agreements, and guarantees that are not provided as a part <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.27"></a><var>26.27</var>of a vehicle protection product are not subject to the provisions of this chapter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.26.28"></a><var>26.28</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.25.0"></a><a id="pl.26.29"></a><var>26.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 25. <b>[59C.04] REGISTRATION AND FILING REQUIREMENTS OF </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.26.30"></a><var>26.30</var><b>WARRANTORS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.26.31"></a><var>26.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>General requirement. </b>  A person may not operate as a warrantor or <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.32"></a><var>26.32</var>represent to the public that the person is a warrantor unless the person is registered with <br />
         		<a id="pl.26.33"></a><var>26.33</var>the department on a form prescribed by the commissioner.<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.1"></a><var>27.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Registration records.</b> A registrant shall file a warrantor registration <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.2"></a><var>27.2</var>record annually and shall update it within 30 days of any change. A registration record <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.3"></a><var>27.3</var>must contain the following information:<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.4"></a><var>27.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the warrantor's name, any fictitious names under which the warrantor does <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.5"></a><var>27.5</var>business in the state, principal office address, and telephone number;<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.6"></a><var>27.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the name and address of the warrantor's agent for service of process in the state if <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.7"></a><var>27.7</var>other than the warrantor;<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.8"></a><var>27.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the names of the warrantor's executive officer or officers directly responsible for <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.9"></a><var>27.9</var>the warrantor's vehicle protection product business;<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.10"></a><var>27.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the name, address, and telephone number of any administrators designated by <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.11"></a><var>27.11</var>the warrantor to be responsible for the administration of vehicle protection product <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.12"></a><var>27.12</var>warranties in this state;<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.13"></a><var>27.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) a copy of the warranty reimbursement insurance policy or policies or other <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.14"></a><var>27.14</var>financial information required by section 59C.05;<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.15"></a><var>27.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) a copy of each warranty the warrantor proposes to use in this state; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.16"></a><var>27.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) a statement indicating under which provision of section 59C.05 the warrantor <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.17"></a><var>27.17</var>qualifies to do business in this state as a warrantor.<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.18"></a><var>27.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Registration fee.</b> The commissioner may charge each registrant a <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.19"></a><var>27.19</var>reasonable fee to offset the cost of processing the registration and maintaining the records <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.20"></a><var>27.20</var>in an amount not to exceed $250 annually. The information in subdivision 2, clauses (1) <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.21"></a><var>27.21</var>and (2), must be made available to the public.<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.22"></a><var>27.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Renewal.</b> If a registrant fails to register by the renewal deadline, the <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.23"></a><var>27.23</var>commissioner shall give them written notice of the failure and the registrant will have 30 <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.24"></a><var>27.24</var>days to complete the renewal of the registration before the commissioner suspends the <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.25"></a><var>27.25</var>registration.<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.26"></a><var>27.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Exception. </b> An administrator or person who sells or solicits a sale of a <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.27"></a><var>27.27</var>vehicle protection product but who is not a warrantor shall not be required to register as a <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.28"></a><var>27.28</var>warrantor or be licensed under the insurance laws of this state to sell vehicle protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.29"></a><var>27.29</var>products.<br />
         		<a id="pl.27.30"></a><var>27.30</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.26.0"></a><a id="pl.27.31"></a><var>27.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 26. <b>[59C.05] FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.27.32"></a><var>27.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>General requirements.</b> No vehicle protection product may be sold, <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.33"></a><var>27.33</var>or offered for sale in this state unless the warrantor meets either the requirements of <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.34"></a><var>27.34</var>subdivision 2 or 3 in order to ensure adequate performance under the warranty. No other <br />
         		<a id="pl.27.35"></a><var>27.35</var>financial security requirements or financial standards for warrantors is required.<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.1"></a><var>28.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Warranty reimbursement insurance policy.</b> The vehicle protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.2"></a><var>28.2</var>product warrantor shall be insured under a warranty reimbursement insurance policy <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.3"></a><var>28.3</var>issued by an insurer authorized to do business in this state which provides that:<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.4"></a><var>28.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the insurer will pay to, or on behalf of the warrantor, 100 percent of all sums <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.5"></a><var>28.5</var>that the warrantor is legally obligated to pay according to the warrantor's contractual <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.6"></a><var>28.6</var>obligations under the warrantor's vehicle protection product warranty;<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.7"></a><var>28.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) a true and correct copy of the warranty reimbursement insurance policy has been <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.8"></a><var>28.8</var>filed with the commissioner by the warrantor; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.9"></a><var>28.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the policy contains the provision required in section 59C.06.<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.10"></a><var>28.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Network or stockholder's equity.</b> (1) The vehicle protection product <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.11"></a><var>28.11</var>warrantor, or its parent company in accordance with clause (2), shall maintain a net worth <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.12"></a><var>28.12</var>or stockholders' equity of $50,000,000; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.13"></a><var>28.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the warrantor shall provide the commissioner with a copy of the warrantor's or <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.14"></a><var>28.14</var>the warrantor's parent company's most recent Form 10-K or Form 20-F filed with the <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.15"></a><var>28.15</var>Securities and Exchange Commission within the last calendar year or, if the warrantor <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.16"></a><var>28.16</var>does not file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, a copy of the warrantor or <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.17"></a><var>28.17</var>the warrantor's parent company's audited financial statements that shows a net worth of <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.18"></a><var>28.18</var>the warrantor or its parent company of at least $50,000,000. If the warrantor's parent <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.19"></a><var>28.19</var>company's Form 10-K, Form 20-F, or audited financial statements are filed to meet <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.20"></a><var>28.20</var>the warrantor's financial stability requirement, then the parent company shall agree to <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.21"></a><var>28.21</var>guarantee the obligations of the warrantor relating to warranties issued by the warrantor in <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.22"></a><var>28.22</var>this state. The financial information provided to the commissioner under this paragraph <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.23"></a><var>28.23</var>is trade secret information for purposes of section 13.37.<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.24"></a><var>28.24</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.27.0"></a><a id="pl.28.25"></a><var>28.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 27. <b>[59C.06] WARRANTY REIMBURSEMENT POLICY </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.28.26"></a><var>28.26</var><b>REQUIREMENTS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.28.27"></a><var>28.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No warranty reimbursement insurance policy may be issued, sold, or offered for sale <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.28"></a><var>28.28</var>in this state unless the policy meets the following conditions:<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.29"></a><var>28.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the policy states that the issuer of the policy will reimburse, or pay on behalf of <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.30"></a><var>28.30</var>the vehicle protection product warrantor, all covered sums that the warrantor is legally <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.31"></a><var>28.31</var>obligated to pay, or will provide all service that the warrantor is legally obligated to <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.32"></a><var>28.32</var>perform according to the warrantor's contractual obligations under the provisions of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.33"></a><var>28.33</var>insured warranties sold by the warrantor;<br />
         		<a id="pl.28.34"></a><var>28.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the policy states that in the event payment due under the terms of the warranty is <br />
         		<a id="pl.28.35"></a><var>28.35</var>not provided by the warrantor within 60 days after proof of loss has been filed according <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.1"></a><var>29.1</var>to the terms of the warranty by the warranty holder, the warranty holder may file directly <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.2"></a><var>29.2</var>with the warranty reimbursement insurance company for reimbursement;<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.3"></a><var>29.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the policy provides that a warranty reimbursement insurance company that <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.4"></a><var>29.4</var>insures a warranty is deemed to have received payment of the premium if the warranty <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.5"></a><var>29.5</var>holder paid for the vehicle protection product and the insurer's liability under the policy <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.6"></a><var>29.6</var>shall not be reduced or relieved by a failure of the warrantor, for any reason, to report the <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.7"></a><var>29.7</var>issuance of a warranty to the insurer; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.8"></a><var>29.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the policy has the following provisions regarding cancellation of the policy:<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.9"></a><var>29.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the issuer of a reimbursement insurance policy shall not cancel the policy until a <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.10"></a><var>29.10</var>notice of cancellation in writing has been mailed or delivered to the commissioner and <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.11"></a><var>29.11</var>each insured warrantor;<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.12"></a><var>29.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) the cancellation of a reimbursement insurance policy shall not reduce the issuer's <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.13"></a><var>29.13</var>responsibility for vehicle protection products sold prior to the date of cancellation; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.14"></a><var>29.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) in the event an insurer cancels a policy that a warrantor has filed with the <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.15"></a><var>29.15</var>commissioner, the warrantor shall do either of the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.16"></a><var>29.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(A) file a copy of a new policy with the commissioner, before the termination of <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.17"></a><var>29.17</var>the prior policy, providing no lapse in coverage following the termination of the prior <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.18"></a><var>29.18</var>policy; or <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.19"></a><var>29.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(B) discontinue offering warranties as of the termination date of the policy until a <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.20"></a><var>29.20</var>new policy becomes effective and is accepted by the commissioner.<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.21"></a><var>29.21</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.28.0"></a><a id="pl.29.22"></a><var>29.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 28. <b>[59C.07] DISCLOSURE TO WARRANTY HOLDER.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.29.23"></a><var>29.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A vehicle protection product warranty must not be sold or offered for sale in this <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.24"></a><var>29.24</var>state unless the warranty:<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.25"></a><var>29.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) states, "The obligations of the warrantor to the warranty holder are guaranteed <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.26"></a><var>29.26</var>under a warranty reimbursement insurance policy" if the warrantor elects to meet its <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.27"></a><var>29.27</var>financial responsibility obligations under section 59C.05, subdivision 2, or states "The <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.28"></a><var>29.28</var>obligations of the warrantor under this warranty are backed by the full faith and credit <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.29"></a><var>29.29</var>of the warrantor" if the warrantor elects to meet its financial responsibility obligations <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.30"></a><var>29.30</var>under section 59C.05, subdivision 3;<br />
         		<a id="pl.29.31"></a><var>29.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) states that in the event a warranty holder must make a claim against a party other <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.32"></a><var>29.32</var>than the warranty reimbursement insurance policy issuer, the warranty holder is entitled to <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.33"></a><var>29.33</var>make a direct claim against the insurer upon the failure of the warrantor to pay any claim <br />
         		<a id="pl.29.34"></a><var>29.34</var>or meet any obligation under the terms of the warranty within 60 days after proof of loss <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.1"></a><var>30.1</var>has been filed with the warrantor, if the warrantor elects to meet its financial responsibility <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.2"></a><var>30.2</var>obligations under section 59C.05, subdivision 2;<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.3"></a><var>30.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) states the name and address of the issuer of the warranty reimbursement <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.4"></a><var>30.4</var>insurance policy, and this information need not be preprinted on the warranty form, but <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.5"></a><var>30.5</var>may be added to or stamped on the warranty, if the warrantor elects to meet its financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.6"></a><var>30.6</var>responsibility obligations under section 59C.05, subdivision 2;<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.7"></a><var>30.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) identifies the warrantor, the seller, and the warranty holder;<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.8"></a><var>30.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) sets forth the total purchase price and the terms under which it is to be paid, <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.9"></a><var>30.9</var>however, the purchase price is not required to be preprinted on the vehicle protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.10"></a><var>30.10</var>product warranty and may be negotiated with the consumer at the time of sale;<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.11"></a><var>30.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) sets forth the procedure for making a claim, including a telephone number;<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.12"></a><var>30.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) specifies the payments or performance to be provided under the warranty <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.13"></a><var>30.13</var>including payments for incidental costs expressed as either a fixed amount specified in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.14"></a><var>30.14</var>warranty or sales agreement or by the use of a formula itemizing specific incidental costs <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.15"></a><var>30.15</var>incurred by the warranty holder, the manner of calculation or determination of payments <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.16"></a><var>30.16</var>or performance, and any limitations, exceptions, or exclusions;<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.17"></a><var>30.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) sets forth all of the obligations and duties of the warranty holder such as the duty <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.18"></a><var>30.18</var>to protect against any further damage to the vehicle, the obligation to notify the warrantor <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.19"></a><var>30.19</var>in advance of any repair, or other similar requirements, if any;<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.20"></a><var>30.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) sets forth any terms, restrictions, or conditions governing transferability and <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.21"></a><var>30.21</var>cancellation of the warranty, if any; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.22"></a><var>30.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10) contains a disclosure that reads substantially as follows: "This agreement is a <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.23"></a><var>30.23</var>product warranty and is not insurance."<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.24"></a><var>30.24</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.29.0"></a><a id="pl.30.25"></a><var>30.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 29. <b>[59C.08] PROHIBITED ACTS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.30.26"></a><var>30.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Unless licensed as an insurance company, a vehicle protection product warrantor <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.27"></a><var>30.27</var>shall not use in its name, contracts, or literature, any of the words "insurance," "casualty," <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.28"></a><var>30.28</var>"surety," "mutual," or any other words descriptive of the insurance, casualty, or surety <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.29"></a><var>30.29</var>business or deceptively similar to the name or description of any insurance or surety <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.30"></a><var>30.30</var>corporation, or any other vehicle protection product warrantor. A warrantor may use the <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.31"></a><var>30.31</var>term "guaranty" or similar word in the warrantor's name.<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.32"></a><var>30.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A vehicle protection product seller or warrantor may not require as a condition of <br />
         		<a id="pl.30.33"></a><var>30.33</var>financing that a retail purchaser of a motor vehicle purchase a vehicle protection product.<br />
         		<a id="pl.30.34"></a><var>30.34</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.30.0"></a><a id="pl.31.1"></a><var>31.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 30. <b>[59C.09] RECORD KEEPING.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.31.2"></a><var>31.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) All vehicle protection product warrantors shall keep accurate accounts, books, <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.3"></a><var>31.3</var>and records concerning transactions regulated under this chapter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.31.4"></a><var>31.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A vehicle protection product warrantor's accounts, books, and records must <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.5"></a><var>31.5</var>include:<br />
         		<a id="pl.31.6"></a><var>31.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) copies of all vehicle protection product warranties;<br />
         		<a id="pl.31.7"></a><var>31.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the name and address of each warranty holder; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.31.8"></a><var>31.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the dates, amounts, and descriptions of all receipts, claims, and expenditures.<br />
         		<a id="pl.31.9"></a><var>31.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) A vehicle protection product warrantor shall retain all required accounts, books, <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.10"></a><var>31.10</var>and records pertaining to each warranty holder for at least two years after the specified <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.11"></a><var>31.11</var>period of coverage has expired. A warrantor discontinuing business in this state shall <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.12"></a><var>31.12</var>maintain its records until it furnishes the commissioner satisfactory proof that it has <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.13"></a><var>31.13</var>discharged all obligations to warranty holders in this state.<br />
         		<a id="pl.31.14"></a><var>31.14</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.31.0"></a><a id="pl.31.15"></a><var>31.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 31. <b>[59C.10] COMMISSIONER'S POWERS AND DUTIES.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.31.16"></a><var>31.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Examination and compliance powers.</b> The commissioner may <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.17"></a><var>31.17</var>conduct examinations of warrantors, administrators, or other persons to enforce this <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.18"></a><var>31.18</var>chapter and protect warranty holders in this state. Upon request of the commissioner, a <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.19"></a><var>31.19</var>warrantor shall make available to the commissioner all accounts, books, and records <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.20"></a><var>31.20</var>concerning vehicle protection products sold by the warrantor and transactions regulated <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.21"></a><var>31.21</var>under this chapter that are necessary to enable the commissioner to reasonably determine <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.22"></a><var>31.22</var>compliance or noncompliance with this chapter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.31.23"></a><var>31.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Enforcement authority.</b> The commissioner may take action that is <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.24"></a><var>31.24</var>necessary or appropriate to enforce the provisions of this chapter and the commissioner's <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.25"></a><var>31.25</var>rules and orders and to protect warranty holders in this state. The commissioner has the <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.26"></a><var>31.26</var>enforcement authority in chapter 45 available to enforce the provisions of the chapter and <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.27"></a><var>31.27</var>the rules adopted pursuant to it.<br />
         		<a id="pl.31.28"></a><var>31.28</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.32.0"></a><a id="pl.31.29"></a><var>31.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 32. <b>[59C.12] APPLICABILITY.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.31.30"></a><var>31.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This chapter applies to all vehicle protection products sold or offered for sale on <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.31"></a><var>31.31</var>or after the effective date of this chapter. The failure of any person to comply with this <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.32"></a><var>31.32</var>chapter before its effective date is not admissible in any court proceeding, administrative <br />
         		<a id="pl.31.33"></a><var>31.33</var>proceeding, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution proceeding and may not otherwise <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.1"></a><var>32.1</var>be used to prove that the action of any person or the affected vehicle protection product <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.2"></a><var>32.2</var>was unlawful or otherwise improper. The adoption of this chapter does not imply that <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.3"></a><var>32.3</var>a vehicle protection product warranty was insurance before the effective date of this <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.4"></a><var>32.4</var>chapter. Nothing in this section may be construed to require the application of the penalty <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.5"></a><var>32.5</var>provisions where this section is not applicable.<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.6"></a><var>32.6</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.33.0"></a><a id="pl.32.7"></a><var>32.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 33. <b>[60K.365] PRODUCER TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.32.8"></a><var>32.8</var><b>LONG-TERM CARE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM INSURANCE PRODUCTS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.32.9"></a><var>32.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) An individual may not sell, solicit, or negotiate long-term care insurance <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.10"></a><var>32.10</var>unless the individual is licensed as an insurance producer for accident and health or <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.11"></a><var>32.11</var>sickness insurance or life insurance and has completed an initial training course and <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.12"></a><var>32.12</var>ongoing training every 24 months thereafter. The training shall meet the requirements of <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.13"></a><var>32.13</var>paragraph (b).<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.14"></a><var>32.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The initial training course required by this subdivision shall be no less than <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.15"></a><var>32.15</var>eight hours and the ongoing training courses required by this subdivision shall be no less <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.16"></a><var>32.16</var>than four hours every 24 months. The courses shall be approved by the Department of <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.17"></a><var>32.17</var>Commerce and may be approved as continuing education courses under section 60K.56. <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.18"></a><var>32.18</var>The courses shall consist of topics related to long-term care insurance, long-term care <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.19"></a><var>32.19</var>services, and, if applicable, qualified state long-term care insurance partnership programs, <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.20"></a><var>32.20</var>including but not limited to:<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.21"></a><var>32.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) state and federal regulations and requirements and the relationship between <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.22"></a><var>32.22</var>qualified state long-term care insurance partnership programs and other public and private <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.23"></a><var>32.23</var>coverage of long-term care services, including Medicaid;<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.24"></a><var>32.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) available long-term care services and providers;<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.25"></a><var>32.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) changes or improvements in long-term care services or providers;<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.26"></a><var>32.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) alternatives to the purchase of private long-term care insurance;<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.27"></a><var>32.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) the effect of inflation on benefits and the importance of inflation protection; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.28"></a><var>32.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) consumer suitability standards and guidelines.<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.29"></a><var>32.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The training required by this subdivision shall not include training that is insurer or <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.30"></a><var>32.30</var>company product specific or that includes any sales or marketing information, materials, <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.31"></a><var>32.31</var>or training, other than those required by state or federal law.<br />
         		<a id="pl.32.32"></a><var>32.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Insurers shall obtain verification that a producer has received the training <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.33"></a><var>32.33</var>required by this subdivision before a producer is permitted to sell, solicit, or negotiate the <br />
         		<a id="pl.32.34"></a><var>32.34</var>insurer's long-term care insurance products. Insurers shall maintain records verifying <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.1"></a><var>33.1</var>that the producer has received the training contained in this subdivision and make that <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.2"></a><var>33.2</var>verification available to the commissioner upon request.<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.3"></a><var>33.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Currently licensed producers must complete the initial training course by January <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.4"></a><var>33.4</var>1, 2008.<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.5"></a><var>33.5</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.34.0"></a><a id="pl.33.6"></a><var>33.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 34. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 60K.55, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.7"></a><var>33.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Licensing fees.</b> (a) In addition to fees provided for examinations and the <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.8"></a><var>33.8</var>technology surcharge required under paragraph (d), each insurance producer licensed <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.9"></a><var>33.9</var>under this chapter shall pay to the commissioner a fee of:<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.10"></a><var>33.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) $50 for an initial life, accident and health, property, or casualty license issued to <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.11"></a><var>33.11</var>an individual insurance producer, and a fee of $50 for each renewal;<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.12"></a><var>33.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) $50 for an initial variable life and variable annuity license issued to an individual <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.13"></a><var>33.13</var>insurance producer, and a fee of $50 for each renewal;<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.14"></a><var>33.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) $50 for an initial personal lines license issued to an individual insurance <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.15"></a><var>33.15</var>producer, and a fee of $50 for each renewal;<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.16"></a><var>33.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) $50 for an initial limited lines license issued to an individual insurance producer, <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.17"></a><var>33.17</var>and a fee of $50 for each renewal;<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.18"></a><var>33.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) $200 for an initial license issued to a business entity, and a fee of $200 for each <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.19"></a><var>33.19</var>renewal; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.20"></a><var>33.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) $500 for an initial surplus lines license, and a fee of $500 for each renewal.<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.21"></a><var>33.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Initial licenses issued under this chapter are valid for a period not to exceed 24 <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.22"></a><var>33.22</var>months and expire on October 31 of the renewal year assigned by the commissioner. <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.23"></a><var>33.23</var>Each renewal insurance producer license is valid for a period of 24 months. Licensees <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.24"></a><var>33.24</var>who submit renewal applications postmarked or delivered on or before October 15 of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.25"></a><var>33.25</var>renewal year may continue to transact business whether or not the renewal license has been <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.26"></a><var>33.26</var>received by November 1. Licensees who submit applications postmarked or delivered <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.27"></a><var>33.27</var>after October 15 of the renewal year must not transact business after the expiration date <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.28"></a><var>33.28</var>of the license until the renewal license has been received.<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.29"></a><var>33.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) All fees are nonreturnable, except that an overpayment of any fee may be <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.30"></a><var>33.30</var>refunded upon proper application.<br />
         		<a id="pl.33.31"></a><var>33.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) In addition to the fees required under paragraph (a), individual insurance <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.32"></a><var>33.32</var>producers shall pay, for each initial license and renewal, a technology surcharge of up to <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.33"></a><var>33.33</var>$40 under section 45.24, unless the commissioner has adjusted the surcharge as permitted <br />
         		<a id="pl.33.34"></a><var>33.34</var>under that section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.1"></a><var>34.1</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective October 1, 2007.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.35.0"></a><a id="pl.34.2"></a><var>34.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 35. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 65B.44, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.3"></a><var>34.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Medical expense benefits.</b> (a) Medical expense benefits shall reimburse <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.4"></a><var>34.4</var>all reasonable expenses for necessary:<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.5"></a><var>34.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) medical, surgical, x-ray, optical, dental, chiropractic, and rehabilitative services, <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.6"></a><var>34.6</var>including prosthetic devices and items that provide relief from any injury;<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.7"></a><var>34.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) prescription drugs;<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.8"></a><var>34.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) ambulance and all other transportation expenses incurred in traveling to receive <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.9"></a><var>34.9</var>other covered medical expense benefits;<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.10"></a><var>34.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) sign interpreting and language translation services, other than such services <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.11"></a><var>34.11</var>provided by a family member of the patient, related to the receipt of medical, surgical, <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.12"></a><var>34.12</var>x-ray, optical, dental, chiropractic, hospital, extended care, nursing, and rehabilitative <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.13"></a><var>34.13</var>services; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.14"></a><var>34.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) hospital, extended care, and nursing services.<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.15"></a><var>34.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Hospital room and board benefits may be limited, except for intensive care <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.16"></a><var>34.16</var>facilities, to the regular daily semiprivate room rates customarily charged by the institution <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.17"></a><var>34.17</var>in which the recipient of benefits is confined.<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.18"></a><var>34.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Such benefits shall also include necessary remedial treatment and services <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.19"></a><var>34.19</var>recognized and permitted under the laws of this state for an injured person who relies <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.20"></a><var>34.20</var>upon spiritual means through prayer alone for healing in accordance with that person's <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.21"></a><var>34.21</var>religious beliefs.<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.22"></a><var>34.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Medical expense loss includes medical expenses accrued prior to the death of a <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.23"></a><var>34.23</var>person notwithstanding the fact that benefits are paid or payable to the decedent's survivors.<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.24"></a><var>34.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) Medical expense benefits for rehabilitative services shall be subject to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.25"></a><var>34.25</var>provisions of section 
         <statute_ref>65B.45</statute_ref>. <br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.36.0"></a><a id="pl.34.26"></a><var>34.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 36. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 65B.44, subdivision 3, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.34.27"></a><var>34.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Disability and income loss benefits.</b> Disability and income loss benefits <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.28"></a><var>34.28</var>shall provide compensation for 85 percent of the injured person's loss of present and future <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.29"></a><var>34.29</var>gross income from inability to work proximately caused by the nonfatal injury subject <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.30"></a><var>34.30</var>to a maximum of ~~$250~~ $500 per week. Loss of income includes the costs incurred by a <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.31"></a><var>34.31</var>self-employed person to hire substitute employees to perform tasks which are necessary to <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.32"></a><var>34.32</var>maintain the income of the injured person, which are normally performed by the injured <br />
         		<a id="pl.34.33"></a><var>34.33</var>person, and which cannot be performed because of the injury.<br />
         		<a id="pl.35.1"></a><var>35.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If the injured person is unemployed at the time of injury and is receiving or is <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.2"></a><var>35.2</var>eligible to receive unemployment benefits under chapter 268, but the injured person loses <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.3"></a><var>35.3</var>eligibility for those benefits because of inability to work caused by the injury, disability <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.4"></a><var>35.4</var>and income loss benefits shall provide compensation for the lost benefits in an amount <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.5"></a><var>35.5</var>equal to the unemployment benefits which otherwise would have been payable, subject to <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.6"></a><var>35.6</var>a maximum of ~~$250~~ $500 per week.<br />
         		<a id="pl.35.7"></a><var>35.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Compensation under this subdivision shall be reduced by any income from substitute <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.8"></a><var>35.8</var>work actually performed by the injured person or by income the injured person would <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.9"></a><var>35.9</var>have earned in available appropriate substitute work which the injured person was capable <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.10"></a><var>35.10</var>of performing but unreasonably failed to undertake.<br />
         		<a id="pl.35.11"></a><var>35.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For the purposes of this section "inability to work" means disability which prevents <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.12"></a><var>35.12</var>the injured person from engaging in any substantial gainful occupation or employment <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.13"></a><var>35.13</var>on a regular basis, for wage or profit, for which the injured person is or may by training <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.14"></a><var>35.14</var>become reasonably qualified. If the injured person returns to employment and is unable by <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.15"></a><var>35.15</var>reason of the injury to work continuously, compensation for lost income shall be reduced <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.16"></a><var>35.16</var>by the income received while the injured person is actually able to work. The weekly <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.17"></a><var>35.17</var>maximums may not be prorated to arrive at a daily maximum, even if the injured person <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.18"></a><var>35.18</var>does not incur loss of income for a full week.<br />
         		<a id="pl.35.19"></a><var>35.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For the purposes of this section, an injured person who is "unable by reason of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.20"></a><var>35.20</var>injury to work continuously" includes, but is not limited to, a person who misses time <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.21"></a><var>35.21</var>from work, including reasonable travel time, and loses income, vacation, or sick leave <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.22"></a><var>35.22</var>benefits, to obtain medical treatment for an injury arising out of the maintenance or use <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.23"></a><var>35.23</var>of a motor vehicle.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.37.0"></a><a id="pl.35.24"></a><var>35.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 37. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 65B.44, subdivision 4, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.35.25"></a><var>35.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Funeral and burial expenses.</b> Funeral and burial benefits shall be <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.26"></a><var>35.26</var>reasonable expenses not in excess of ~~$2,000~~ $5,000, including expenses for cremation or <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.27"></a><var>35.27</var>delivery under the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (1987), sections 
         <statute_ref>525.921</statute_ref> to 
         <statute_ref>525.9224</statute_ref>. <br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.38.0"></a><a id="pl.35.28"></a><var>35.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 38. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 65B.44, subdivision 5, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.35.29"></a><var>35.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Replacement service and loss.</b> Replacement service loss benefits shall <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.30"></a><var>35.30</var>reimburse all expenses reasonably incurred by or on behalf of the nonfatally injured <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.31"></a><var>35.31</var>person in obtaining usual and necessary substitute services in lieu of those that, had the <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.32"></a><var>35.32</var>injured person not been injured, the injured person would have performed not for income <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.33"></a><var>35.33</var>but for direct personal benefit or for the benefit of the injured person's household; if <br />
         		<a id="pl.35.34"></a><var>35.34</var>the nonfatally injured person normally, as a full time responsibility, provides care and <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.1"></a><var>36.1</var>maintenance of a home with or without children, the benefit to be provided under this <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.2"></a><var>36.2</var>subdivision shall be the reasonable value of such care and maintenance or the reasonable <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.3"></a><var>36.3</var>expenses incurred in obtaining usual and necessary substitute care and maintenance of <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.4"></a><var>36.4</var>the home, whichever is greater. These benefits shall be subject to a maximum of ~~$200~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.5"></a><var>36.5</var>$600 per week. All replacement services loss sustained on the date of injury and the first <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.6"></a><var>36.6</var>seven days thereafter is excluded in calculating replacement services loss.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.39.0"></a><a id="pl.36.7"></a><var>36.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 39. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 65B.47, subdivision 7, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.36.8"></a><var>36.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 7. <b>Adding policies together.</b> Unless a policyholder makes a specific election <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.9"></a><var>36.9</var>not to have two or more policies added together the limit of liability for basic economic <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.10"></a><var>36.10</var>loss benefits for two or more motor vehicles ~~may not~~ must be added together to determine <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.11"></a><var>36.11</var>the limit of insurance coverage available to an injured person for any one accident. An <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.12"></a><var>36.12</var>insurer shall notify policyholders that they may elect not to have two or more policies <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.13"></a><var>36.13</var>added together.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.40.0"></a><a id="pl.36.14"></a><var>36.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 40. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 65B.54, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.36.15"></a><var>36.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Payment of basic economic loss benefits.</b> Basic economic loss <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.16"></a><var>36.16</var>benefits are payable monthly as loss accrues. Loss accrues not when injury occurs, but as <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.17"></a><var>36.17</var>income loss, replacement services loss, survivor's economic loss, survivor's replacement <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.18"></a><var>36.18</var>services loss, or medical or funeral expense is incurred. Benefits are overdue if not <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.19"></a><var>36.19</var>paid within 30 days after the reparation obligor receives reasonable proof of the fact <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.20"></a><var>36.20</var>and amount of loss realized, unless the reparation obligor elects to accumulate claims <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.21"></a><var>36.21</var>for periods not exceeding 31 days and pays them within 15 days after the period of <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.22"></a><var>36.22</var>accumulation. However, if the insurer notifies the insured that it is denying benefits, the <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.23"></a><var>36.23</var>insured need not continue to provide the insurer with proof of the bills, losses, or expenses. <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.24"></a><var>36.24</var>If reasonable proof is supplied as to only part of a claim, and the part totals $100 or more, <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.25"></a><var>36.25</var>the part is overdue if not paid within the time provided by this section. Medical or funeral <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.26"></a><var>36.26</var>expense benefits may be paid by the reparation obligor directly to persons supplying <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.27"></a><var>36.27</var>products, services, or accommodations to the claimant.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.41.0"></a><a id="pl.36.28"></a><var>36.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 41. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 65B.54, is amended by adding a subdivision <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.29"></a><var>36.29</var>to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.36.30"></a><var>36.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Unethical practices.</b> (a) A licensed health care provider shall not initiate <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.31"></a><var>36.31</var>direct contact, in person, over the telephone, or by other electronic means, with any person <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.32"></a><var>36.32</var>who has suffered an injury arising out of the maintenance or use of an automobile, for the <br />
         		<a id="pl.36.33"></a><var>36.33</var>purpose of influencing that person to receive treatment or to purchase any good or item <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.1"></a><var>37.1</var>from the licensee or anyone associated with the licensee. This subdivision prohibits such <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.2"></a><var>37.2</var>direct contact whether initiated by the licensee individually or on behalf of the licensee by <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.3"></a><var>37.3</var>any employee, independent contractor, agent, or third party. This subdivision does not <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.4"></a><var>37.4</var>apply when an injured person voluntarily initiates contact with a licensee.<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.5"></a><var>37.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) This subdivision does not prohibit licensees from mailing advertising literature <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.6"></a><var>37.6</var>directly to such persons, so long as:<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.7"></a><var>37.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the word "ADVERTISEMENT" appears clearly and conspicuously at the <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.8"></a><var>37.8</var>beginning of the written materials;<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.9"></a><var>37.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the name of the individual licensee appears clearly and conspicuously within <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.10"></a><var>37.10</var>the written materials;<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.11"></a><var>37.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the licensee is clearly identified as a licensed health care provider within the <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.12"></a><var>37.12</var>written materials; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.13"></a><var>37.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the licensee does not initiate, individually or through any employee, independent <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.14"></a><var>37.14</var>contractor, agent, or third party, direct contact with the person after the written materials <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.15"></a><var>37.15</var>are sent.<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.16"></a><var>37.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) This subdivision does not apply to:<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.17"></a><var>37.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) advertising that does not involve direct contact with specific prospective patients, <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.18"></a><var>37.18</var>in public media such as telephone directories, professional directories, ads in newspapers <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.19"></a><var>37.19</var>and other periodicals, radio or television ads, Web sites, billboards, or similar media; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.20"></a><var>37.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) general marketing practices such as giving lectures; participating in special <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.21"></a><var>37.21</var>events, trade shows, or meetings of organizations; or making presentations relative to <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.22"></a><var>37.22</var>the benefits of chiropractic treatment; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.23"></a><var>37.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) contact with friends or relatives, or statements made in a social setting.<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.24"></a><var>37.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) A violation of this subdivision is grounds for the licensing authority to take <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.25"></a><var>37.25</var>disciplinary action against the licensee, including revocation in appropriate cases.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.42.0"></a><a id="pl.37.26"></a><var>37.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 42. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 80A.28, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.27"></a><var>37.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Registration or notice filing fee.</b> (a) There shall be a filing fee of <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.28"></a><var>37.28</var>$100 for every application for registration or notice filing. There shall be an additional fee <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.29"></a><var>37.29</var>of one-tenth of one percent of the maximum aggregate offering price at which the securities <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.30"></a><var>37.30</var>are to be offered in this state, and the maximum combined fees shall not exceed $300.<br />
         		<a id="pl.37.31"></a><var>37.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) When an application for registration is withdrawn before the effective date or a <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.32"></a><var>37.32</var>preeffective stop order is entered under section 
         <statute_ref>80A.13, subdivision 1</statute_ref>, all but the $100 <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.33"></a><var>37.33</var>filing fee shall be returned. If an application to register securities is denied, the total of all <br />
         		<a id="pl.37.34"></a><var>37.34</var>fees received shall be retained. <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.1"></a><var>38.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Where a filing is made in connection with a federal covered security under <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.2"></a><var>38.2</var>section 18(b)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, there is a fee of $100 for every initial filing. <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.3"></a><var>38.3</var>If the filing is made in connection with redeemable securities issued by an open end <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.4"></a><var>38.4</var>management company or unit investment trust, as defined in the Investment Company Act <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.5"></a><var>38.5</var>of 1940, there is an additional annual fee of 1/20 of one percent of the maximum aggregate <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.6"></a><var>38.6</var>offering price at which the securities are to be offered in this state during the notice filing <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.7"></a><var>38.7</var>period. The fee must be paid at the time of the initial filing and thereafter in connection <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.8"></a><var>38.8</var>with each renewal no later than July 1 of each year and must be sufficient to cover the <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.9"></a><var>38.9</var>shares the issuer expects to sell in this state over the next 12 months. If during a current <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.10"></a><var>38.10</var>notice filing the issuer determines it is likely to sell shares in excess of the shares for <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.11"></a><var>38.11</var>which fees have been paid to the commissioner, the issuer shall submit an amended notice <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.12"></a><var>38.12</var>filing to the commissioner under section 
         <statute_ref>80A.122, subdivision 1</statute_ref>, clause (3), together with <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.13"></a><var>38.13</var>a fee of 1/20 of one percent of the maximum aggregate offering price of the additional <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.14"></a><var>38.14</var>shares. Shares for which a fee has been paid, but which have not been sold at the time <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.15"></a><var>38.15</var>of expiration of the notice filing, may not be sold unless an additional fee to cover the <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.16"></a><var>38.16</var>shares has been paid to the commissioner as provided in this section and section 
         <statute_ref>80A.122, <br />
            		<a id="pl.38.17"></a><var>38.17</var>subdivision 4a
         </statute_ref>. If the filing is made in connection with redeemable securities issued by <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.18"></a><var>38.18</var>such a company or trust, there is no maximum fee for securities filings made according to <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.19"></a><var>38.19</var>this paragraph. If the filing is made in connection with any other federal covered security <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.20"></a><var>38.20</var>under Section 18(b)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, there is an additional fee of one-tenth <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.21"></a><var>38.21</var>of one percent of the maximum aggregate offering price at which the securities are to be <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.22"></a><var>38.22</var>offered in this state, and the combined fees shall not exceed $300. Beginning with fiscal <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.23"></a><var>38.23</var>year 2001 and continuing each fiscal year thereafter, as of the last day of each fiscal year, <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.24"></a><var>38.24</var>the commissioner shall determine the total amount of all fees that were collected under <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.25"></a><var>38.25</var>this paragraph in connection with any filings made for that fiscal year for securities of an <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.26"></a><var>38.26</var>open-end investment company on behalf of a security that is a federal covered security <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.27"></a><var>38.27</var>pursuant to section 18(b)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933. ~~To the extent the total fees~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.28"></a><var>38.28</var>~~collected by the commissioner in connection with these filings exceed $25,000,000 in a~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.29"></a><var>38.29</var>~~fiscal year, the commissioner shall refund, on a pro rata basis, to all persons who paid any~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.30"></a><var>38.30</var>~~fees for that fiscal year, the amount of fees collected by the commissioner in excess of~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.31"></a><var>38.31</var>~~$25,000,000.~~ No individual refund is required of amounts of $100 or less for a fiscal year. <br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.43.0"></a><a id="pl.38.32"></a><var>38.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 43. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 80A.65, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.38.33"></a><var>38.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Registration or notice filing fee.</b> (a) There shall be a filing fee of <br />
         		<a id="pl.38.34"></a><var>38.34</var>$100 for every application for registration or notice filing.  There shall be an additional fee <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.1"></a><var>39.1</var>of one-tenth of one percent of the maximum aggregate offering price at which the securities <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.2"></a><var>39.2</var>are to be offered in this state, and the maximum combined fees shall not exceed $300.<br />
         		<a id="pl.39.3"></a><var>39.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) When an application for registration is withdrawn before the effective date <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.4"></a><var>39.4</var>or a preeffective stop order is entered under section 80A.54, all but the $100 filing fee <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.5"></a><var>39.5</var>shall be returned.  If an application to register securities is denied, the total of all fees <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.6"></a><var>39.6</var>received shall be retained.<br />
         		<a id="pl.39.7"></a><var>39.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Where a filing is made in connection with a federal covered security under <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.8"></a><var>39.8</var>section 18(b)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, there is a fee of $100 for every initial filing. <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.9"></a><var>39.9</var>If the filing is made in connection with redeemable securities issued by an open end <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.10"></a><var>39.10</var>management company or unit investment trust, as defined in the Investment Company Act <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.11"></a><var>39.11</var>of 1940, there is an additional annual fee of 1/20 of one percent of the maximum aggregate <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.12"></a><var>39.12</var>offering price at which the securities are to be offered in this state during the notice filing <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.13"></a><var>39.13</var>period.  The fee must be paid at the time of the initial filing and thereafter in connection <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.14"></a><var>39.14</var>with each renewal no later than July 1 of each year and must be sufficient to cover the <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.15"></a><var>39.15</var>shares the issuer expects to sell in this state over the next 12 months.  If during a current <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.16"></a><var>39.16</var>notice filing the issuer determines it is likely to sell shares in excess of the shares for which <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.17"></a><var>39.17</var>fees have been paid to the administrator, the issuer shall submit an amended notice filing <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.18"></a><var>39.18</var>to the administrator under section 80A.50, together with a fee of 1/20 of one percent of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.19"></a><var>39.19</var>maximum aggregate offering price of the additional shares.  Shares for which a fee has <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.20"></a><var>39.20</var>been paid, but which have not been sold at the time of expiration of the notice filing, may <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.21"></a><var>39.21</var>not be sold unless an additional fee to cover the shares has been paid to the administrator <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.22"></a><var>39.22</var>as provided in this section and section 80A.50.  If the filing is made in connection with <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.23"></a><var>39.23</var>redeemable securities issued by such a company or trust, there is no maximum fee for <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.24"></a><var>39.24</var>securities filings made according to this paragraph.  If the filing is made in connection <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.25"></a><var>39.25</var>with any other federal covered security under Section 18(b)(2) of the Securities Act of <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.26"></a><var>39.26</var>1933, there is an additional fee of one-tenth of one percent of the maximum aggregate <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.27"></a><var>39.27</var>offering price at which the securities are to be offered in this state, and the combined fees <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.28"></a><var>39.28</var>shall not exceed $300.  ~~Beginning with fiscal year 2001 and continuing each fiscal year~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.29"></a><var>39.29</var>~~thereafter, as of the last day of each fiscal year, the administrator shall determine the total~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.30"></a><var>39.30</var>~~amount of all fees that were collected under this paragraph in connection with any filings~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.31"></a><var>39.31</var>~~made for that fiscal year for securities of an open-end investment company on behalf of a~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.32"></a><var>39.32</var>~~security that is a federal covered security pursuant to section 18(b)(2) of the Securities~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.33"></a><var>39.33</var>~~Act of 1933.  To the extent the total fees collected by the administrator in connection~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.34"></a><var>39.34</var>~~with these filings exceed $25,000,000 in a fiscal year, the administrator shall refund, on~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.39.35"></a><var>39.35</var>~~a pro rata basis, to all persons who paid any fees for that fiscal year, the amount of fees~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.1"></a><var>40.1</var>~~collected by the administrator in excess of $25,000,000.~~  No individual refund is required <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.2"></a><var>40.2</var>of amounts of $100 or less for a fiscal year.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.44.0"></a><a id="pl.40.3"></a><var>40.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 44. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 82.24, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.4"></a><var>40.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Amounts.</b> The following fees shall be paid to the commissioner:<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.5"></a><var>40.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) a fee of $150 for each initial individual broker's license, and a fee of $100 for <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.6"></a><var>40.6</var>each renewal thereof;<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.7"></a><var>40.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) a fee of $70 for each initial salesperson's license, and a fee of $40 for each <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.8"></a><var>40.8</var>renewal thereof;<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.9"></a><var>40.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) a fee of $85 for each initial real estate closing agent license, and a fee of $60 <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.10"></a><var>40.10</var>for each renewal thereof;<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.11"></a><var>40.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) a fee of $150 for each initial corporate, limited liability company, or partnership <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.12"></a><var>40.12</var>license, and a fee of $100 for each renewal thereof;<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.13"></a><var>40.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) a fee for payment to the education, research and recovery fund in accordance <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.14"></a><var>40.14</var>with section 
         <statute_ref>82.43</statute_ref>; <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.15"></a><var>40.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) a fee of $20 for each transfer;<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.16"></a><var>40.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) a fee of $50 for license reinstatement; ~~and~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.17"></a><var>40.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) a fee of $20 for reactivating a corporate, limited liability company, or partnership <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.18"></a><var>40.18</var>license without land; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.19"></a><var>40.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) in addition to the fees required under this subdivision, individual licensees under <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.20"></a><var>40.20</var>clauses (a) and (b) shall pay, for each initial license and renewal, a technology surcharge <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.21"></a><var>40.21</var>of up to $40 under section 45.24, unless the commissioner has adjusted the surcharge <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.22"></a><var>40.22</var>as permitted under that section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.23"></a><var>40.23</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.45.0"></a><a id="pl.40.24"></a><var>40.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 45. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 82.24, subdivision 4, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.25"></a><var>40.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Deposit of fees.</b> Unless otherwise provided by this chapter, all fees <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.26"></a><var>40.26</var>collected under this chapter shall be deposited in the state treasury. The technology <br />
         		<a id="pl.40.27"></a><var>40.27</var>surcharge shall be deposited as required under section 45.24.<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.28"></a><var>40.28</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.46.0"></a><a id="pl.40.29"></a><var>40.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 46. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 82B.09, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.30"></a><var>40.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Amounts.</b> (a) The following fees must be paid to the commissioner:<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.31"></a><var>40.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) $150 for each initial individual real estate appraiser's license; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.40.32"></a><var>40.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) $100 for each renewal.<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.1"></a><var>41.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) In addition to the fees required under this subdivision, individual real estate <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.2"></a><var>41.2</var>appraisers shall pay a technology surcharge of up to $40 under section 45.24, unless the <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.3"></a><var>41.3</var>commissioner has adjusted the surcharge as permitted under that section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.4"></a><var>41.4</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.47.0"></a><a id="pl.41.5"></a><var>41.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 47. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 118A.03, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.6"></a><var>41.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>In lieu of surety bond.</b> The following are the allowable forms of collateral <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.7"></a><var>41.7</var>in lieu of a corporate surety bond:<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.8"></a><var>41.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) United States government Treasury bills, Treasury notes, Treasury bonds;<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.9"></a><var>41.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) issues of United States government agencies and instrumentalities as quoted by a <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.10"></a><var>41.10</var>recognized industry quotation service available to the government entity;<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.11"></a><var>41.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) general obligation securities of any state or local government with taxing powers <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.12"></a><var>41.12</var>which is rated "A" or better by a national bond rating service, or revenue obligation <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.13"></a><var>41.13</var>securities of any state or local government with taxing powers which is rated "AA" or <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.14"></a><var>41.14</var>better by a national bond rating service;<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.15"></a><var>41.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) ~~unrated~~ general obligation securities of a local government with taxing powers <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.16"></a><var>41.16</var>may be pledged as collateral against funds deposited by that same local government entity;<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.17"></a><var>41.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) irrevocable standby letters of credit issued by Federal Home Loan Banks to a <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.18"></a><var>41.18</var>municipality accompanied by written evidence that the bank's public debt is rated "AA" or <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.19"></a><var>41.19</var>better by Moody's Investors Service, Inc., or Standard &amp; Poor's Corporation; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.20"></a><var>41.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) time deposits that are fully insured by any federal agency.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.48.0"></a><a id="pl.41.21"></a><var>41.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 48. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.102, is amended by adding a subdivision <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.22"></a><var>41.22</var>to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.23"></a><var>41.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3a. <b>Reparation obligors.</b> A reparation obligor as defined in section 65B.43, <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.24"></a><var>41.24</var>subdivision 9, may submit any relevant information to the board in any case in which <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.25"></a><var>41.25</var>the reparation obligor has reason to believe that charges being billed by a licensee are <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.26"></a><var>41.26</var>fraudulent, unreasonable, or inconsistent with treatment actually received by the injured <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.27"></a><var>41.27</var>party involved.<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.28"></a><var>41.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A reparation obligor that makes a report under this section shall provide the board <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.29"></a><var>41.29</var>with any additional information, related to the reported activities, requested by the board.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.49.0"></a><a id="pl.41.30"></a><var>41.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 49. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 239.101, subdivision 3, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.41.31"></a><var>41.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Petroleum inspection fee.</b> (a) An inspection fee is imposed (1) on <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.32"></a><var>41.32</var>petroleum products when received by the first licensed distributor, and (2) on petroleum <br />
         		<a id="pl.41.33"></a><var>41.33</var>products received and held for sale or use by any person when the petroleum products <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.1"></a><var>42.1</var>have not previously been received by a licensed distributor. The petroleum inspection <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.2"></a><var>42.2</var>fee is $1 for every 1,000 gallons received. The commissioner of revenue shall collect <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.3"></a><var>42.3</var>the fee. The revenue from 81 cents of the fee is appropriated to the commissioner of <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.4"></a><var>42.4</var>commerce for the cost of operations of the Division of Weights and Measures, petroleum <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.5"></a><var>42.5</var>supply monitoring, and ~~the oil burner retrofit program~~ to make grants to providers of <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.6"></a><var>42.6</var>low-income weatherization services to install renewable energy equipment in households <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.7"></a><var>42.7</var>that are eligible for weatherization assistance under Minnesota's weatherization assistance <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.8"></a><var>42.8</var>program state plan. The remainder of the fee must be deposited in the general fund.<br />
         		<a id="pl.42.9"></a><var>42.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The commissioner of revenue shall credit a person for inspection fees previously <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.10"></a><var>42.10</var>paid in error or for any material exported or sold for export from the state upon filing of a <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.11"></a><var>42.11</var>report as prescribed by the commissioner of revenue.<br />
         		<a id="pl.42.12"></a><var>42.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The commissioner of revenue may collect the inspection fee along with any <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.13"></a><var>42.13</var>taxes due under chapter 296A.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.50.0"></a><a id="pl.42.14"></a><var>42.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 50. <b>[325E.027] DISCRIMINATION PROHIBITION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.42.15"></a><var>42.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) No dealer or distributor of liquid propane gas or number 1 or number 2 fuel oil <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.16"></a><var>42.16</var>who has signed a low-income home energy assistance program vendor agreement with the <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.17"></a><var>42.17</var>department of commerce may refuse to deliver liquid propane gas or number 1 or number <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.18"></a><var>42.18</var>2 fuel oil to any person located within the dealer's or distributor's normal delivery area <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.19"></a><var>42.19</var>who receives direct grants under the low-income home energy assistance program if:<br />
         		<a id="pl.42.20"></a><var>42.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the person has requested delivery;<br />
         		<a id="pl.42.21"></a><var>42.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the dealer or distributor has product available;<br />
         		<a id="pl.42.22"></a><var>42.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the person requesting delivery is capable of making full payment at the time of <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.23"></a><var>42.23</var>delivery; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.42.24"></a><var>42.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the person is not in arrears regarding any previous fuel purchase from that dealer <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.25"></a><var>42.25</var>or distributor.<br />
         		<a id="pl.42.26"></a><var>42.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A dealer or distributor making delivery to a person receiving direct grants <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.27"></a><var>42.27</var>under the low-income home energy assistance program may not charge that person any <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.28"></a><var>42.28</var>additional costs or fees that would not be charged to any other customer and must make <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.29"></a><var>42.29</var>available to that person any discount program on the same basis as the dealer or distributor <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.30"></a><var>42.30</var>makes available to any other customer.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.51.0"></a><a id="pl.42.31"></a><var>42.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 51. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 325E.311, subdivision 6, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.42.32"></a><var>42.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Telephone solicitation.</b> "Telephone solicitation" means any voice <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.33"></a><var>42.33</var>communication over a telephone line for the purpose of encouraging the purchase or <br />
         		<a id="pl.42.34"></a><var>42.34</var>rental of, or investment in, property, goods, or services, whether the communication is <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.1"></a><var>43.1</var>made by a live operator, through the use of an automatic dialing-announcing device as <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.2"></a><var>43.2</var>defined in section 
         <statute_ref>325E.26, subdivision 2</statute_ref>, or by other means. Telephone solicitation <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.3"></a><var>43.3</var>does not include communications:<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.4"></a><var>43.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) to any residential subscriber with that subscriber's prior express invitation or <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.5"></a><var>43.5</var>permission; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.6"></a><var>43.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) by or on behalf of any person or entity with whom a residential subscriber has a <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.7"></a><var>43.7</var>prior or current business or personal relationship.<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.8"></a><var>43.8</var>Telephone solicitation also does not include communications if the caller is identified by a <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.9"></a><var>43.9</var>caller identification service and the call is:<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.10"></a><var>43.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) by or on behalf of an organization that is identified as a nonprofit organization <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.11"></a><var>43.11</var>under state or federal law, unless the organization is a debt management services provider <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.12"></a><var>43.12</var>defined in section 332A.02;<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.13"></a><var>43.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) by a person soliciting without the intent to complete, and who does not in <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.14"></a><var>43.14</var>fact complete, the sales presentation during the call, but who will complete the sales <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.15"></a><var>43.15</var>presentation at a later face-to-face meeting between the solicitor who makes the call <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.16"></a><var>43.16</var>and the prospective purchaser; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.17"></a><var>43.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) by a political party as defined under section 
         <statute_ref>200.02, subdivision 6</statute_ref>.<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.18"></a><var>43.18</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.52.0"></a><a id="pl.43.19"></a><var>43.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 52. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 325N.01, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.20"></a><var>43.20</var><b>325N.01 DEFINITIONS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.43.21"></a><var>43.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The definitions in paragraphs (a) to (h) apply to sections 
         <statute_ref>325N.01</statute_ref> to 
         <statute_ref>325N.09</statute_ref>. <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.22"></a><var>43.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) "Foreclosure consultant" means any person who, directly or indirectly, makes <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.23"></a><var>43.23</var>any solicitation, representation, or offer to any owner to perform for compensation or <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.24"></a><var>43.24</var>who, for compensation, performs any service which the person in any manner represents <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.25"></a><var>43.25</var>will in any manner do any of the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.26"></a><var>43.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) stop or postpone the foreclosure sale;<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.27"></a><var>43.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) obtain any forbearance from any beneficiary or mortgagee;<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.28"></a><var>43.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) assist the owner to exercise the right of reinstatement provided in section 
         <statute_ref>580.30</statute_ref>; <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.29"></a><var>43.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) obtain any extension of the period within which the owner may reinstate the <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.30"></a><var>43.30</var>owner's obligation;<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.31"></a><var>43.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) obtain any waiver of an acceleration clause contained in any promissory note or <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.32"></a><var>43.32</var>contract secured by a mortgage on a residence in foreclosure or contained in the mortgage;<br />
         		<a id="pl.43.33"></a><var>43.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) assist the owner in foreclosure or loan default to obtain a loan or advance <br />
         		<a id="pl.43.34"></a><var>43.34</var>of funds;<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.1"></a><var>44.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) avoid or ameliorate the impairment of the owner's credit resulting from the <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.2"></a><var>44.2</var>recording of a notice of default or the conduct of a foreclosure sale; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.3"></a><var>44.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) save the owner's residence from foreclosure.<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.4"></a><var>44.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A foreclosure consultant does not include any of the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.5"></a><var>44.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) a person licensed to practice law in this state when the person renders service <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.6"></a><var>44.6</var>in the course of his or her practice as an attorney-at-law;<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.7"></a><var>44.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) a person licensed as a debt ~~prorater under sections~~ 
         <statute_ref>~~332.12~~</statute_ref> ~~to~~ 
         <statute_ref>~~332.29~~</statute_ref> management <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.8"></a><var>44.8</var>services provider under chapter 332A, when the person is acting as a debt ~~prorater~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.9"></a><var>44.9</var>management services provider as defined in ~~these sections~~ that chapter; <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.10"></a><var>44.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) a person licensed as a real estate broker or salesperson under chapter 82 when the <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.11"></a><var>44.11</var>person engages in acts whose performance requires licensure under that chapter unless the <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.12"></a><var>44.12</var>person is engaged in offering services designed to, or purportedly designed to, enable the <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.13"></a><var>44.13</var>owner to retain possession of the residence in foreclosure;<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.14"></a><var>44.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) a person licensed as an accountant under chapter 326A when the person is acting <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.15"></a><var>44.15</var>in any capacity for which the person is licensed under those provisions;<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.16"></a><var>44.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) a person or the person's authorized agent acting under the express authority <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.17"></a><var>44.17</var>or written approval of the Department of Housing and Urban Development or other <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.18"></a><var>44.18</var>department or agency of the United States or this state to provide services;<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.19"></a><var>44.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) a person who holds or is owed an obligation secured by a lien on any residence <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.20"></a><var>44.20</var>in foreclosure when the person performs services in connection with this obligation or lien <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.21"></a><var>44.21</var>if the obligation or lien did not arise as the result of or as part of a proposed foreclosure <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.22"></a><var>44.22</var>reconveyance;<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.23"></a><var>44.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) any person or entity doing business under any law of this state, or of the United <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.24"></a><var>44.24</var>States relating to banks, trust companies, savings and loan associations, industrial loan and <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.25"></a><var>44.25</var>thrift companies, regulated lenders, credit unions, insurance companies, or a mortgagee <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.26"></a><var>44.26</var>which is a United States Department of Housing and Urban Development approved <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.27"></a><var>44.27</var>mortgagee and any subsidiary or affiliate of these persons or entities, and any agent or <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.28"></a><var>44.28</var>employee of these persons or entities while engaged in the business of these persons <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.29"></a><var>44.29</var>or entities;<br />
         		<a id="pl.44.30"></a><var>44.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) a person licensed as a residential mortgage originator or servicer pursuant to <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.31"></a><var>44.31</var>chapter 58, when acting under the authority of that license or a foreclosure purchaser as <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.32"></a><var>44.32</var>defined in section 
         <statute_ref>325N.10</statute_ref>; <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.33"></a><var>44.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) a nonprofit agency or organization that offers counseling or advice to an owner <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.34"></a><var>44.34</var>of a home in foreclosure or loan default if they do not contract for services with for-profit <br />
         		<a id="pl.44.35"></a><var>44.35</var>lenders or foreclosure purchasers; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.1"></a><var>45.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10) a judgment creditor of the owner, to the extent that the judgment creditor's claim <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.2"></a><var>45.2</var>accrued prior to the personal service of the foreclosure notice required by section 
         <statute_ref>580.03</statute_ref>, <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.3"></a><var>45.3</var>but excluding a person who purchased the claim after such personal service. <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.4"></a><var>45.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) "Foreclosure reconveyance" means a transaction involving:<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.5"></a><var>45.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the transfer of title to real property by a foreclosed homeowner during a <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.6"></a><var>45.6</var>foreclosure proceeding, either by transfer of interest from the foreclosed homeowner or <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.7"></a><var>45.7</var>by creation of a mortgage or other lien or encumbrance during the foreclosure process <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.8"></a><var>45.8</var>that allows the acquirer to obtain title to the property by redeeming the property as <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.9"></a><var>45.9</var>a junior lienholder; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.10"></a><var>45.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the subsequent conveyance, or promise of a subsequent conveyance, of an interest <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.11"></a><var>45.11</var>back to the foreclosed homeowner by the acquirer or a person acting in participation with <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.12"></a><var>45.12</var>the acquirer that allows the foreclosed homeowner to possess the real property following <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.13"></a><var>45.13</var>the completion of the foreclosure proceeding, which interest includes, but is not limited to, <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.14"></a><var>45.14</var>an interest in a contract for deed, purchase agreement, option to purchase, or lease.<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.15"></a><var>45.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) "Person" means any individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.16"></a><var>45.16</var>company, association, or other group, however organized.<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.17"></a><var>45.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) "Service" means and includes, but is not limited to, any of the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.18"></a><var>45.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) debt, budget, or financial counseling of any type;<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.19"></a><var>45.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) receiving money for the purpose of distributing it to creditors in payment or <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.20"></a><var>45.20</var>partial payment of any obligation secured by a lien on a residence in foreclosure;<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.21"></a><var>45.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) contacting creditors on behalf of an owner of a residence in foreclosure;<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.22"></a><var>45.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) arranging or attempting to arrange for an extension of the period within which <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.23"></a><var>45.23</var>the owner of a residence in foreclosure may cure the owner's default and reinstate his or <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.24"></a><var>45.24</var>her obligation pursuant to section 
         <statute_ref>580.30</statute_ref>; <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.25"></a><var>45.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) arranging or attempting to arrange for any delay or postponement of the time of <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.26"></a><var>45.26</var>sale of the residence in foreclosure;<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.27"></a><var>45.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) advising the filing of any document or assisting in any manner in the preparation <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.28"></a><var>45.28</var>of any document for filing with any bankruptcy court; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.29"></a><var>45.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) giving any advice, explanation, or instruction to an owner of a residence in <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.30"></a><var>45.30</var>foreclosure, which in any manner relates to the cure of a default in or the reinstatement <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.31"></a><var>45.31</var>of an obligation secured by a lien on the residence in foreclosure, the full satisfaction of <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.32"></a><var>45.32</var>that obligation, or the postponement or avoidance of a sale of a residence in foreclosure, <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.33"></a><var>45.33</var>pursuant to a power of sale contained in any mortgage.<br />
         		<a id="pl.45.34"></a><var>45.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) "Residence in foreclosure" means residential real property consisting of one to <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.35"></a><var>45.35</var>four family dwelling units, one of which the owner occupies as his or her principal place <br />
         		<a id="pl.45.36"></a><var>45.36</var>of residence, and against which there is an outstanding notice of pendency of foreclosure, <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.1"></a><var>46.1</var>recorded pursuant to section 
         <statute_ref>580.032</statute_ref>, or against which a summons and complaint has <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.2"></a><var>46.2</var>been served under chapter 581. <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.3"></a><var>46.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) "Owner" means the record owner of the residential real property in foreclosure at <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.4"></a><var>46.4</var>the time the notice of pendency was recorded, or the summons and complaint served.<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.5"></a><var>46.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) "Contract" means any agreement, or any term in any agreement, between <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.6"></a><var>46.6</var>a foreclosure consultant and an owner for the rendition of any service as defined in <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.7"></a><var>46.7</var>paragraph (e).<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.8"></a><var>46.8</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.53.0"></a><a id="pl.46.9"></a><var>46.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 53. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 332.54, subdivision 7, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.10"></a><var>46.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 7. <b>Fees.</b> The fee for a credit services organization's registration is ~~$100~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.11"></a><var>46.11</var>$1,000 for issuance or renewal for each location of business.<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.12"></a><var>46.12</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICATION.</b>This section is effective July 1, 2007, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.13"></a><var>46.13</var>applies to registrations issued or renewed on or after that date.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.54.0"></a><a id="pl.46.14"></a><var>46.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 54. <b>[332A.02] DEFINITIONS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.46.15"></a><var>46.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Scope.</b> Unless a different meaning is clearly indicated by the context, <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.16"></a><var>46.16</var>for the purposes of this chapter the terms defined in this section have the meanings given <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.17"></a><var>46.17</var>them.<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.18"></a><var>46.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Accreditation.</b> "Accreditation" means certification as an accredited <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.19"></a><var>46.19</var>credit counseling provider by the International Standards Organization or the Council on <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.20"></a><var>46.20</var>Accreditation.<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.21"></a><var>46.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Attorney general.</b> "Attorney general" means the attorney general of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.22"></a><var>46.22</var>state of Minnesota.<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.23"></a><var>46.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Commissioner.</b> "Commissioner" means commissioner of commerce.<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.24"></a><var>46.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Controlling or affiliated party.</b> "Controlling or affiliated party" means <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.25"></a><var>46.25</var>any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.26"></a><var>46.26</var>with another person.<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.27"></a><var>46.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Debt management services agreement.</b> "Debt management services <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.28"></a><var>46.28</var>agreement" means the written contract between the debt management services provider <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.29"></a><var>46.29</var>and the debtor.<br />
         		<a id="pl.46.30"></a><var>46.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 7. <b>Debt management services plan.</b> "Debt management services plan" <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.31"></a><var>46.31</var>means the debtor's individualized package of debt management services set forth in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.46.32"></a><var>46.32</var>debt management services agreement.<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.1"></a><var>47.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 8. <b>Debt management services provider.</b> "Debt management services <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.2"></a><var>47.2</var>provider" means any person offering or providing debt management services to a debtor <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.3"></a><var>47.3</var>domiciled in this state, regardless of whether or not a fee is charged for the services and <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.4"></a><var>47.4</var>regardless of whether the person maintains a physical presence in the state. This term does <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.5"></a><var>47.5</var>not include services performed by the following when engaged in the regular course of <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.6"></a><var>47.6</var>their respective businesses and professions:<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.7"></a><var>47.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) attorneys at law, escrow agents, accountants, broker-dealers in securities;<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.8"></a><var>47.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) state or national banks, trust companies, savings associations, title insurance <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.9"></a><var>47.9</var>companies, insurance companies, and all other lending institutions duly authorized to <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.10"></a><var>47.10</var>transact business in Minnesota, provided no fee is charged for the service;<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.11"></a><var>47.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) persons who, as employees on a regular salary or wage of an employer not <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.12"></a><var>47.12</var>engaged in the business of debt management, perform credit services for their employer;<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.13"></a><var>47.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) public officers acting in their official capacities and persons acting as a debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.14"></a><var>47.14</var>management services provider pursuant to court order;<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.15"></a><var>47.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) any person while performing services incidental to the dissolution, winding up, <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.16"></a><var>47.16</var>or liquidation of a partnership, corporation, or other business enterprise;<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.17"></a><var>47.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) the state, its political subdivisions, public agencies, and their employees;<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.18"></a><var>47.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) credit unions and collection agencies, provided no fee is charged for the service;<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.19"></a><var>47.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) "qualified organizations" designated as representative payees for purposes of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.20"></a><var>47.20</var>Social Security and Supplemental Security Income Representative Payee System and the <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.21"></a><var>47.21</var>federal Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990, Public Law 101-508; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.22"></a><var>47.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) accelerated mortgage payment providers. "Accelerated mortgage payment <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.23"></a><var>47.23</var>providers" are persons who, after satisfying the requirements of sections 332.30 to <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.24"></a><var>47.24</var>332.303, receive funds to make mortgage payments to a lender or lenders, on behalf <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.25"></a><var>47.25</var>of mortgagors, in order to exceed regularly scheduled minimum payment obligations <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.26"></a><var>47.26</var>under the terms of the indebtedness. The term does not include: (i) persons or entities <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.27"></a><var>47.27</var>described in clauses (1) to (8); (ii) mortgage lenders or servicers, industrial loan and <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.28"></a><var>47.28</var>thrift companies, or regulated lenders under chapter 56; or (iii) persons authorized to <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.29"></a><var>47.29</var>make loans under section 47.20, subdivision 1. For purposes of this clause and sections <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.30"></a><var>47.30</var>332.30 to 332.303, "lender" means the original lender or that lender's assignee, whichever <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.31"></a><var>47.31</var>is the current mortgage holder.<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.32"></a><var>47.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 9. <b>Debt management services.</b> "Debt management services" means the <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.33"></a><var>47.33</var>provision of any one or more of the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.47.34"></a><var>47.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) managing the financial affairs of an individual by distributing income or money <br />
         		<a id="pl.47.35"></a><var>47.35</var>to the individual's creditors; <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.1"></a><var>48.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) receiving funds for the purpose of distributing the funds among creditors in <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.2"></a><var>48.2</var>payment or partial payment of obligations of a debtor; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.48.3"></a><var>48.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) settling, adjusting, prorating, pooling, or liquidating the indebtedness of a debtor. <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.4"></a><var>48.4</var>Any person so engaged or holding out as so engaged is deemed to be engaged in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.5"></a><var>48.5</var>provision of debt management services regardless of whether or not a fee is charged for <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.6"></a><var>48.6</var>such services.<br />
         		<a id="pl.48.7"></a><var>48.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 10. <b>Debtor.</b> "Debtor" means the person for whom the debt prorating service <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.8"></a><var>48.8</var>is performed.<br />
         		<a id="pl.48.9"></a><var>48.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 11. <b>Person.</b> "Person" means any individual, firm, partnership, association, <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.10"></a><var>48.10</var>or corporation.<br />
         		<a id="pl.48.11"></a><var>48.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 12. <b>Registrant.</b> "Registrant" means any person registered by the <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.12"></a><var>48.12</var>commissioner pursuant to this chapter and, where used in conjunction with an act or <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.13"></a><var>48.13</var>omission required or prohibited by this chapter, shall mean any person performing debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.14"></a><var>48.14</var>management services.<br />
         		<a id="pl.48.15"></a><var>48.15</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.55.0"></a><a id="pl.48.16"></a><var>48.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 55. <b>[332A.03] REQUIREMENT OF REGISTRATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.48.17"></a><var>48.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On or after August 1, 2007, it is unlawful for any person, whether or not located in <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.18"></a><var>48.18</var>this state, to operate as a debt management services provider or provide debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.19"></a><var>48.19</var>services, including but not limited to offering, advertising, or executing or causing to <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.20"></a><var>48.20</var>be executed any debt management services or debt management services agreement, <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.21"></a><var>48.21</var>except as authorized by law without first becoming registered as provided in this <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.22"></a><var>48.22</var>chapter. A person who possesses a valid license as a debt prorater that was issued by the <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.23"></a><var>48.23</var>commissioner before August 1, 2007, is deemed to be registered as a debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.24"></a><var>48.24</var>services provider until the date the debt prorater license expires, at which time the licensee <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.25"></a><var>48.25</var>must obtain a renewal as a debt management services provider in compliance with this <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.26"></a><var>48.26</var>chapter. Debt proraters who were not required to be licensed as debt proraters before <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.27"></a><var>48.27</var>August 1, 2007, may continue to provide debt management services without complying <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.28"></a><var>48.28</var>with this chapter to those debtors who entered into a contract to participate in a debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.29"></a><var>48.29</var>management plan before August 1, 2007, except that the debt prorater must comply with <br />
         		<a id="pl.48.30"></a><var>48.30</var>section 332A.13, subdivision 2.<br />
         		<a id="pl.48.31"></a><var>48.31</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.56.0"></a><a id="pl.48.32"></a><var>48.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 56. <b>[332A.04] REGISTRATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.49.1"></a><var>49.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Form.</b> Application for registration to operate as a debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.2"></a><var>49.2</var>services provider in this state must be made in writing to the commissioner, under oath, in <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.3"></a><var>49.3</var>the form prescribed by the commissioner, and must contain:<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.4"></a><var>49.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the full name of each principal of the entity applying;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.5"></a><var>49.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the address, which must not be a post office box, and the telephone number and, <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.6"></a><var>49.6</var>if applicable, e-mail address, of the applicant;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.7"></a><var>49.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) identification of the trust account required under section 332A.13;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.8"></a><var>49.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) consent to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.9"></a><var>49.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) the name and address of the registered agent authorized to accept service of <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.10"></a><var>49.10</var>process on behalf of the applicant or appointment of the commissioner as the applicant's <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.11"></a><var>49.11</var>agent for purposes of accepting service of process;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.12"></a><var>49.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) disclosure of:<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.13"></a><var>49.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) whether any controlling or affiliated party has ever been convicted of a crime <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.14"></a><var>49.14</var>or found civilly liable for an offense involving moral turpitude, including forgery, <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.15"></a><var>49.15</var>embezzlement, obtaining money under false pretenses, larceny, extortion, conspiracy to <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.16"></a><var>49.16</var>defraud, or any other similar offense or violation, or any violation of a federal or state law <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.17"></a><var>49.17</var>or regulation in connection with activities relating to the rendition of debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.18"></a><var>49.18</var>services or involving any consumer fraud, false advertising, deceptive trade practices, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.19"></a><var>49.19</var>similar consumer protection law;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.20"></a><var>49.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) any judgments, private or public litigation, tax liens, written complaints, <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.21"></a><var>49.21</var>administrative actions, or investigations by any government agency against the applicant <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.22"></a><var>49.22</var>or any officer, director, manager, or shareholder owning more than five percent interest <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.23"></a><var>49.23</var>in the applicant, unresolved or otherwise, filed or otherwise commenced within the <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.24"></a><var>49.24</var>preceding ten years;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.25"></a><var>49.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) whether the applicant or any person employed by the applicant has had a record <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.26"></a><var>49.26</var>of having defaulted in the payment of money collected for others, including the discharge <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.27"></a><var>49.27</var>of debts through bankruptcy proceedings; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.28"></a><var>49.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) whether the applicant's license or registration to provide debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.29"></a><var>49.29</var>services in any other state has ever been revoked or suspended;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.30"></a><var>49.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) a copy of the applicant's standard debt management services agreement that the <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.31"></a><var>49.31</var>applicant intends to execute with debtors;<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.32"></a><var>49.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) proof of accreditation of:<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.33"></a><var>49.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the debt management services provider; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.34"></a><var>49.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) all individuals employed by, under contract with, or otherwise agents of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.49.35"></a><var>49.35</var>provider who offer to provide or provide debt management services; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.49.36"></a><var>49.36</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) any other information and material as the commissioner may require.<br />
         		<a id="pl.50.1"></a><var>50.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Term and scope of registration.</b> The registration must remain in full <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.2"></a><var>50.2</var>force and effect for one calendar year or until it is surrendered by the licensee or revoked <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.3"></a><var>50.3</var>or suspended by the commissioner. The registration is limited solely to the business <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.4"></a><var>50.4</var>of providing debt management services.<br />
         		<a id="pl.50.5"></a><var>50.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Fees.</b> The registration application must be accompanied by payment of <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.6"></a><var>50.6</var>$1,000 as a registration fee.<br />
         		<a id="pl.50.7"></a><var>50.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Bond.</b> The registration application must be accompanied by payment of <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.8"></a><var>50.8</var>the premium for a surety bond in which the applicant shall be the obligor, in a sum to be <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.9"></a><var>50.9</var>determined by the commissioner but not less than $5,000, and in which an insurance <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.10"></a><var>50.10</var>company, which is duly authorized by the state of Minnesota to transact the business of <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.11"></a><var>50.11</var>fidelity and surety insurance, shall be a surety. However, the commissioner may accept <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.12"></a><var>50.12</var>a deposit in cash, or securities that may legally be purchased by savings banks or for <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.13"></a><var>50.13</var>trust funds of an aggregate market value equal to the bond requirement, in lieu of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.14"></a><var>50.14</var>surety bond. The cash or securities must be deposited with the commissioner of finance. <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.15"></a><var>50.15</var>The commissioner may also require a fidelity bond in an appropriate amount covering <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.16"></a><var>50.16</var>employees of any applicant. Each branch office or additional place of business of an <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.17"></a><var>50.17</var>applicant must be bonded as provided in this subdivision. In determining the bond amount <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.18"></a><var>50.18</var>necessary for the maintenance of any office, whether it is a surety bond, fidelity bond, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.19"></a><var>50.19</var>both, the commissioner shall consider the financial responsibility, experience, character, <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.20"></a><var>50.20</var>and general fitness of the debt management services provider and its operators and owners; <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.21"></a><var>50.21</var>the volume of business handled or proposed to be handled; the location of the office <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.22"></a><var>50.22</var>and the geographical area served or proposed to be served; and other information the <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.23"></a><var>50.23</var>commissioner may deem pertinent based upon past performance, previous examinations, <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.24"></a><var>50.24</var>annual reports, and manner of business conducted in other states.<br />
         		<a id="pl.50.25"></a><var>50.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Condition of bond.</b>  The bond must run to the state of Minnesota for the <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.26"></a><var>50.26</var>use of the state and of any person or persons who may have a cause of action against the <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.27"></a><var>50.27</var>obligor arising out of the obligor's activities as a debt management services provider to <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.28"></a><var>50.28</var>a debtor domiciled in this state. The bond must be conditioned that the obligor will not <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.29"></a><var>50.29</var>commit any fraudulent act and will faithfully conform to and abide by the provisions of <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.30"></a><var>50.30</var>this chapter and of all rules lawfully made by the commissioner under this chapter and <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.31"></a><var>50.31</var>pay to the state and to any such person or persons any and all money that may become <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.32"></a><var>50.32</var>due or owing to the state or to such person or persons from the obligor under and by <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.33"></a><var>50.33</var>virtue of this chapter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.50.34"></a><var>50.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Right of action on bond.</b> If the registrant has failed to account to a debtor <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.35"></a><var>50.35</var>or distribute to the debtor's creditors the amounts required by this chapter and the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.50.36"></a><var>50.36</var>management services agreement between the debtor and registrant, the debtor or the <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.1"></a><var>51.1</var>debtor's legal representative or receiver, the commissioner, or the attorney general, shall <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.2"></a><var>51.2</var>have, in addition to all other legal remedies, a right of action in the name of the debtor <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.3"></a><var>51.3</var>on the bond or the security given under this section, for loss suffered by the debtor, not <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.4"></a><var>51.4</var>exceeding the face amount of the bond or security, and without the necessity of joining <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.5"></a><var>51.5</var>the registrant in the suit or action.<br />
         		<a id="pl.51.6"></a><var>51.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 7. <b>Registrant list.</b> The commissioner must maintain a list of registered debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.7"></a><var>51.7</var>management services providers. The list must be made available to the public in written <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.8"></a><var>51.8</var>form upon request and on the Department of Commerce Web site.<br />
         		<a id="pl.51.9"></a><var>51.9</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.57.0"></a><a id="pl.51.10"></a><var>51.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 57. <b>[332A.05] NONASSIGNMENT OF REGISTRATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.51.11"></a><var>51.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A registration must not be transferred or assigned without the consent of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.12"></a><var>51.12</var>commissioner.<br />
         		<a id="pl.51.13"></a><var>51.13</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.58.0"></a><a id="pl.51.14"></a><var>51.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 58. <b>[332A.06] RENEWAL OF REGISTRATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.51.15"></a><var>51.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each year, each registrant under the provisions of this chapter must, not more than <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.16"></a><var>51.16</var>60 nor less than 30 days before its registration is to expire, apply to the commissioner for <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.17"></a><var>51.17</var>renewal of its registration on a form prescribed by the commissioner. The application must <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.18"></a><var>51.18</var>be signed by the registrant under penalty of perjury, contain current information on all <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.19"></a><var>51.19</var>matters required in the original application, and be accompanied by a payment of $250. <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.20"></a><var>51.20</var>The registrant must maintain a continuous surety bond that satisfies the requirements of <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.21"></a><var>51.21</var>section 332A.04, subdivision 4, provided that the commissioner may require a different <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.22"></a><var>51.22</var>amount that is at least equal to the largest amount that has accrued in the registrant's trust <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.23"></a><var>51.23</var>account during the previous year. The renewal is effective for one year.<br />
         		<a id="pl.51.24"></a><var>51.24</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.59.0"></a><a id="pl.51.25"></a><var>51.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 59. <b>[332A.07] OTHER DUTIES OF REGISTRANT.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.51.26"></a><var>51.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Requirement to update information.</b> A registrant must update any <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.27"></a><var>51.27</var>information required by this chapter provided in its original or renewal application not <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.28"></a><var>51.28</var>later than 90 days after the date the events precipitating the update occurred.<br />
         		<a id="pl.51.29"></a><var>51.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Inspection of debtor of registration.</b> Each registrant must maintain a <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.30"></a><var>51.30</var>copy of its registration in its files. The registrant must allow a debtor, upon request, to <br />
         		<a id="pl.51.31"></a><var>51.31</var>inspect the registration.<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.1"></a><var>52.1</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.60.0"></a><a id="pl.52.2"></a><var>52.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 60. <b>[332A.08] DENIAL OF REGISTRATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.52.3"></a><var>52.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The commissioner, with notice to the applicant by certified mail sent to the address <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.4"></a><var>52.4</var>listed on the application, may deny an application for a registration upon finding that <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.5"></a><var>52.5</var>the applicant:<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.6"></a><var>52.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) has submitted an application required under section 332A.04 that contains <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.7"></a><var>52.7</var>incorrect, misleading, incomplete, or materially untrue information. An application is <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.8"></a><var>52.8</var>incomplete if it does not include all the information required in section 332A.04;<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.9"></a><var>52.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) has failed to pay any fee or pay or maintain any bond required by this chapter, <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.10"></a><var>52.10</var>or failed to comply with any order, decision, or finding of the commissioner made under <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.11"></a><var>52.11</var>and within the authority of this chapter;<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.12"></a><var>52.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) has violated any provision of this chapter or any rule or direction lawfully made <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.13"></a><var>52.13</var>by the commissioner under and within the authority of this chapter;<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.14"></a><var>52.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) or any controlling or affiliated party has ever been convicted of a crime or found <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.15"></a><var>52.15</var>civilly liable for an offense involving moral turpitude, including forgery, embezzlement, <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.16"></a><var>52.16</var>obtaining money under false pretenses, larceny, extortion, conspiracy to defraud, or any <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.17"></a><var>52.17</var>other similar offense or violation, or any violation of a federal or state law or regulation <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.18"></a><var>52.18</var>in connection with activities relating to the rendition of debt management services or <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.19"></a><var>52.19</var>any consumer fraud, false advertising, deceptive trade practices, or similar consumer <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.20"></a><var>52.20</var>protection law;<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.21"></a><var>52.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) has had a registration or license previously revoked or suspended in this state or <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.22"></a><var>52.22</var>any other state or the applicant or licensee has been permanently or temporarily enjoined <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.23"></a><var>52.23</var>by any court of competent jurisdiction from engaging in or continuing any conduct or <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.24"></a><var>52.24</var>practice involving any aspect of the debt management services provider business; or <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.25"></a><var>52.25</var>any controlling or affiliated party has been an officer, director, manager, or shareholder <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.26"></a><var>52.26</var>owning more than a ten percent interest in a debt management services provider whose <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.27"></a><var>52.27</var>registration has previously been revoked or suspended in this state or any other state, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.28"></a><var>52.28</var>who has been permanently or temporarily enjoined by any court of competent jurisdiction <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.29"></a><var>52.29</var>from engaging in or continuing any conduct or practice involving any aspect of the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.30"></a><var>52.30</var>management services provider business;<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.31"></a><var>52.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) has made any false statement or representation to the commissioner;<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.32"></a><var>52.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) is insolvent;<br />
         		<a id="pl.52.33"></a><var>52.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) refuses to fully comply with an investigation or examination of the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.52.34"></a><var>52.34</var>management services provider by the commissioner;<br />
         		<a id="pl.53.1"></a><var>53.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) has improperly withheld, misappropriated, or converted any money or properties <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.2"></a><var>53.2</var>received in the course of doing business;<br />
         		<a id="pl.53.3"></a><var>53.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10) has failed to have a trust account with an actual cash balance equal to or greater <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.4"></a><var>53.4</var>than the sum of the escrow balances of each debtor's account;<br />
         		<a id="pl.53.5"></a><var>53.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(11) has defaulted in making payments to creditors on behalf of debtors as required <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.6"></a><var>53.6</var>by agreements between the provider and debtor; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.53.7"></a><var>53.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(12) has used fraudulent, coercive, or dishonest practices, or demonstrated <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.8"></a><var>53.8</var>incompetence, untrustworthiness, or financial irresponsibility in this state or elsewhere.<br />
         		<a id="pl.53.9"></a><var>53.9</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.61.0"></a><a id="pl.53.10"></a><var>53.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 61. <b>[332A.09] SUSPENDING, REVOKING, OR REFUSING TO RENEW </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.53.11"></a><var>53.11</var><b>REGISTRATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.53.12"></a><var>53.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Procedure.</b> The commissioner may revoke, suspend, or refuse <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.13"></a><var>53.13</var>to renew any registration issued under this chapter, or may levy a civil penalty under <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.14"></a><var>53.14</var>section 45.027, or any combination of actions, if the debt management services provider <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.15"></a><var>53.15</var>or any controlling or affiliated person has committed any act or omission for which the <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.16"></a><var>53.16</var>commissioner could have refused to issue an initial registration or renew an existing <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.17"></a><var>53.17</var>registration. Revocation of or refusal to renew a registration must be upon notice and <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.18"></a><var>53.18</var>hearing as prescribed in the Administrative Procedure Act, sections 14.57 to 14.69. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.19"></a><var>53.19</var>notice must set a time for hearing before the commissioner not less than 20 nor more than <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.20"></a><var>53.20</var>30 days after service of the notice, provided the registrant may waive the 20-day minimum. <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.21"></a><var>53.21</var>The commissioner may, in the notice, suspend the registration for a period not to exceed 60 <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.22"></a><var>53.22</var>days. Unless the notice states that the registration is suspended, pending the determination <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.23"></a><var>53.23</var>of the main issue, the registrant may continue to transact business until the final decision of <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.24"></a><var>53.24</var>the commissioner. If the registration is suspended, the commissioner shall hold a hearing <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.25"></a><var>53.25</var>and render a final determination within ten days of a request by the registrant. If the <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.26"></a><var>53.26</var>commissioner fails to do so, the suspension shall terminate and be of no force or effect.<br />
         		<a id="pl.53.27"></a><var>53.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Notification of interested persons.</b> After the notice and hearing required <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.28"></a><var>53.28</var>in subdivision 1, upon issuing an order suspending or revoking a registration or refusing to <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.29"></a><var>53.29</var>renew a registration, the commissioner may notify all individuals who have contracts with <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.30"></a><var>53.30</var>the affected registrant and all creditors who have agreed to a debt management services <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.31"></a><var>53.31</var>plan that the registration has been revoked and that the order is subject to appeal.<br />
         		<a id="pl.53.32"></a><var>53.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Receiver for funds of sanctioned registrant.</b> When an order is issued <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.33"></a><var>53.33</var>revoking or refusing to renew a registration, the commissioner may apply for, and the <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.34"></a><var>53.34</var>district court must appoint, a receiver to temporarily or permanently receive the assets of <br />
         		<a id="pl.53.35"></a><var>53.35</var>the registrant pending a final determination of the validity of the order.<br />
         		<a id="pl.54.1"></a><var>54.1</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.62.0"></a><a id="pl.54.2"></a><var>54.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 62. <b>[332A.10] WRITTEN DEBT MANAGEMENT SERVICES </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.54.3"></a><var>54.3</var><b>AGREEMENT.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.54.4"></a><var>54.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Written agreement required.</b> A debt management services provider <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.5"></a><var>54.5</var>may not perform any debt management services or receive any money related to a debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.6"></a><var>54.6</var>management plan until the provider has obtained a debt management services agreement <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.7"></a><var>54.7</var>that contains all  terms of the agreement between the debt management services provider <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.8"></a><var>54.8</var>and the debtor. A debt management services agreement must be in writing, dated, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.9"></a><var>54.9</var>signed by the debt management services provider and the debtor. The registrant must <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.10"></a><var>54.10</var>furnish the debtor with a copy of the signed contract upon execution.<br />
         		<a id="pl.54.11"></a><var>54.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Actions prior to written agreement.</b> No person may provide debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.12"></a><var>54.12</var>management services for a debtor unless the person first has:<br />
         		<a id="pl.54.13"></a><var>54.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) provided the debtor individualized counseling and educational information <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.14"></a><var>54.14</var>that, at a minimum, addresses managing household finances, managing credit and debt, <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.15"></a><var>54.15</var>budgeting, and personal savings strategies;<br />
         		<a id="pl.54.16"></a><var>54.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) prepared in writing and provided to the debtor, in a form that the debtor may <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.17"></a><var>54.17</var>keep, an individualized financial analysis and a proposed debt management plan listing the <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.18"></a><var>54.18</var>debtor's known debts with specific recommendations regarding actions the debtor should <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.19"></a><var>54.19</var>take to reduce or eliminate the amount of the debts, including written disclosure that <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.20"></a><var>54.20</var>debt management services are not suitable for all debtors and that there are other ways, <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.21"></a><var>54.21</var>including bankruptcy, to deal with indebtedness;<br />
         		<a id="pl.54.22"></a><var>54.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) made a determination supported by an individualized financial analysis that the <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.23"></a><var>54.23</var>debtor can reasonably meet the requirements of the proposed debt management plan <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.24"></a><var>54.24</var>and that there is a net tangible benefit to the debtor of entering into the proposed debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.25"></a><var>54.25</var>management plan; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.54.26"></a><var>54.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) prepared, in a form the debtor may keep, a written list identifying all known <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.27"></a><var>54.27</var>creditors of the debtor that the provider reasonably expects to participate in the plan <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.28"></a><var>54.28</var>and the creditors, including secured creditors, that the provider reasonably expects not <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.29"></a><var>54.29</var>to participate.<br />
         		<a id="pl.54.30"></a><var>54.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Required terms.</b> (a) Each debt management services agreement must <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.31"></a><var>54.31</var>contain the following terms, which must be disclosed prominently and clearly in bold print <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.32"></a><var>54.32</var>on the front page of the agreement, segregated by bold lines from all other information on <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.33"></a><var>54.33</var>the page:<br />
         		<a id="pl.54.34"></a><var>54.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the fee amount to be paid by the debtor and whether the initial fee amount is <br />
         		<a id="pl.54.35"></a><var>54.35</var>refundable or nonrefundable;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.1"></a><var>55.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the monthly fee amount or percentage to be paid by the debtor; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.2"></a><var>55.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the total amount of fees reasonably anticipated to be paid by the debtor over <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.3"></a><var>55.3</var>the term of the agreement.<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.4"></a><var>55.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Each debt management services agreement must also contain the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.5"></a><var>55.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) a disclosure that if the amount of debt owed is increased by interest, late fees, <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.6"></a><var>55.6</var>over the limit fees, and other amounts imposed by the creditors, the length of the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.7"></a><var>55.7</var>management services agreement will be extended and remain in force and that the total <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.8"></a><var>55.8</var>dollar charges agreed upon may increase at the rate agreed upon in the original contract <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.9"></a><var>55.9</var>agreement;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.10"></a><var>55.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) a prominent statement describing the terms upon which the debtor may cancel <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.11"></a><var>55.11</var>the contract as set forth in section 332A.11;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.12"></a><var>55.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) a detailed description of all services to be performed by the debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.13"></a><var>55.13</var>services provider for the debtor;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.14"></a><var>55.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the debt management services provider's refund policy; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.15"></a><var>55.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) the debt management services provider's principal business address and the name <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.16"></a><var>55.16</var>and address of its agent in this state authorized to receive service of process.<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.17"></a><var>55.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Prohibited terms.</b> The following terms shall not be included in the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.18"></a><var>55.18</var>management services agreement:<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.19"></a><var>55.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) a hold harmless clause;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.20"></a><var>55.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) a confession of judgment, or a power of attorney to confess judgment against the <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.21"></a><var>55.21</var>debtor or appear as the debtor in any judicial proceeding;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.22"></a><var>55.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) a waiver of the right to a jury trial, if applicable, in any action brought by <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.23"></a><var>55.23</var>or against a debtor;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.24"></a><var>55.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) an assignment of or an order for payment of wages or other compensation for <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.25"></a><var>55.25</var>services;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.26"></a><var>55.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) a provision in which the debtor agrees not to assert any claim or defense arising <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.27"></a><var>55.27</var>out of the debt management services agreement;<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.28"></a><var>55.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) a waiver of any provision of this chapter or a release of any obligation required <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.29"></a><var>55.29</var>to be performed on the part of the debt management services provider; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.30"></a><var>55.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) a mandatory arbitration clause.<br />
         		<a id="pl.55.31"></a><var>55.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>New debt management services agreements; modification of existing </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.55.32"></a><var>55.32</var><b>agreements.</b> (a) Separate and additional debt management services agreements that <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.33"></a><var>55.33</var>comply with this chapter may be entered into by the debt management services provider <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.34"></a><var>55.34</var>and the debtor provided that no additional initial fee may be charged by the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.55.35"></a><var>55.35</var>management services provider.<br />
         		<a id="pl.56.1"></a><var>56.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Any modification of an existing debt management services agreement, including <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.2"></a><var>56.2</var>any increase in the number or amount of debts included in the debt management service, <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.3"></a><var>56.3</var>must be in writing and signed by both parties. No fees, charges, or other consideration <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.4"></a><var>56.4</var>may be demanded from the debtor for the modification, other than an increase in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.5"></a><var>56.5</var>amount of the monthly maintenance fee established in the original debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.6"></a><var>56.6</var>services agreement.<br />
         		<a id="pl.56.7"></a><var>56.7</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.63.0"></a><a id="pl.56.8"></a><var>56.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 63. <b>[332A.11] RIGHT TO CANCEL.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.56.9"></a><var>56.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Debtor's right to cancel.</b> A debtor has the right to cancel the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.10"></a><var>56.10</var>management services agreement without cause at any time upon ten days' written notice to <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.11"></a><var>56.11</var>the debt management services provider. In the event of cancellation, the debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.12"></a><var>56.12</var>services provider must, within ten days of the cancellation, notify the debtor's creditors of <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.13"></a><var>56.13</var>the cancellation and provide a refund of all unexpended funds paid by or for the debtor to <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.14"></a><var>56.14</var>the debt management services provider.<br />
         		<a id="pl.56.15"></a><var>56.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Notice of debtor's right to cancel.</b> A debt management services <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.16"></a><var>56.16</var>agreement must contain, on its face, in an easily readable typeface immediately adjacent <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.17"></a><var>56.17</var>to the space for signature by the debtor, the following notice: "Right To Cancel: You have <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.18"></a><var>56.18</var>the right to cancel this contract at any time on ten days' written notice." <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.19"></a><var>56.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Automatic termination.</b> Upon the payment of all listed debts and <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.20"></a><var>56.20</var>fees, the debt management services agreement must automatically terminate, and all <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.21"></a><var>56.21</var>unexpended funds paid by or for the debtor to the debt management services provider <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.22"></a><var>56.22</var>must be immediately returned to the debtor.<br />
         		<a id="pl.56.23"></a><var>56.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Debt management services provider's right to cancel.</b> A debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.24"></a><var>56.24</var>management services provider may cancel a debt management services agreement <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.25"></a><var>56.25</var>with good cause upon 30 days' written notice to the debtor. Within ten days after the <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.26"></a><var>56.26</var>cancellation, the debt management services provider must: (1) notify the debtor's creditors <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.27"></a><var>56.27</var>of the cancellation; and (2) return to the debtor all unexpended funds paid by or for the <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.28"></a><var>56.28</var>debtor.<br />
         		<a id="pl.56.29"></a><var>56.29</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.64.0"></a><a id="pl.56.30"></a><var>56.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 64. <b>[332A.12] BOOKS, RECORDS, AND INFORMATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.56.31"></a><var>56.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Records retention.</b> Every registrant must keep, and use in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.32"></a><var>56.32</var>registrant's business, such books, accounts, and records, including electronic records, as <br />
         		<a id="pl.56.33"></a><var>56.33</var>will enable the commissioner to determine whether the registrant is complying with this <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.1"></a><var>57.1</var>chapter and of the rules, orders, and directives adopted by the commissioner under this <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.2"></a><var>57.2</var>chapter. Every registrant must preserve such books, accounts, and records for at least six <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.3"></a><var>57.3</var>years after making the final entry on any transaction recorded therein. Examinations of <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.4"></a><var>57.4</var>the books, records, and method of operations conducted under the supervision of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.5"></a><var>57.5</var>commissioner shall be done at the cost of the registrant. The cost must be assessed as <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.6"></a><var>57.6</var>determined under section 46.131.<br />
         		<a id="pl.57.7"></a><var>57.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Statements to debtors.</b> Each registrant must maintain and must make <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.8"></a><var>57.8</var>available records and accounts that will enable each debtor to ascertain the amounts <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.9"></a><var>57.9</var>paid to the creditors of the debtor. A statement showing amounts received from the <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.10"></a><var>57.10</var>debtor, disbursements to each creditor, amounts which any creditor has agreed to accept <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.11"></a><var>57.11</var>as payment in full for any debt owed the creditor by the debtor, charges deducted by <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.12"></a><var>57.12</var>the registrant, and such other information as the commissioner may prescribe, must be <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.13"></a><var>57.13</var>furnished by the registrant to the debtor at least monthly and, in addition, upon any <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.14"></a><var>57.14</var>cancellation or termination of the contract. In addition to the statements required by this <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.15"></a><var>57.15</var>subdivision, each debtor must have reasonable access, without cost, by electronic or other <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.16"></a><var>57.16</var>means, to information in the registrant's files applicable to the debtor. These statements, <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.17"></a><var>57.17</var>records, and accounts must otherwise remain confidential except for duly authorized state <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.18"></a><var>57.18</var>and government officials, the commissioner, the attorney general, the debtor, and the <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.19"></a><var>57.19</var>debtor's representative and designees. Each registrant must prepare and retain in the file of <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.20"></a><var>57.20</var>each debtor a written analysis of the debtor's income and expenses to substantiate that the <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.21"></a><var>57.21</var>plan of payment is feasible and practicable.<br />
         		<a id="pl.57.22"></a><var>57.22</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.65.0"></a><a id="pl.57.23"></a><var>57.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 65. <b>[332A.13] FEES, PAYMENTS, AND CONSENT OF CREDITORS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.57.24"></a><var>57.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Origination fee; credit background report cost.</b> The registrant <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.25"></a><var>57.25</var>may charge a nonrefundable origination fee of not more than $50, which may be retained <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.26"></a><var>57.26</var>by the registrant from the initial amount paid by the debtor to the registrant. <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.27"></a><var>57.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Monthly maintenance fee.</b> The registrant may charge a periodic fee for <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.28"></a><var>57.28</var>account maintenance or other purposes, but only if the fee is reasonable for the services <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.29"></a><var>57.29</var>provided and does exceed the lesser of 15 percent of the monthly payment amount or $75.<br />
         		<a id="pl.57.30"></a><var>57.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Additional fees unauthorized.</b> A registrant may not impose any fee or <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.31"></a><var>57.31</var>other charge or receive any funds or other payment other than the initial fee or monthly <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.32"></a><var>57.32</var>maintenance fee authorized by this section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.57.33"></a><var>57.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Amount of periodic payments retained.</b> The registrant may retain as <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.34"></a><var>57.34</var>payment for the fees authorized by this section no more than 15 percent of any periodic <br />
         		<a id="pl.57.35"></a><var>57.35</var>payment made to the registrant by the debtor. The remaining 85 percent must be disbursed <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.1"></a><var>58.1</var>to listed creditors under and in accordance with the debt management services agreement. <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.2"></a><var>58.2</var>No fees or charges may be received or retained by the registrant for any handling of <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.3"></a><var>58.3</var>recurring payments. Recurring payments include current rent, mortgage, utility, telephone, <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.4"></a><var>58.4</var>maintenance as defined in section 518.27, child support, insurance premiums, and such <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.5"></a><var>58.5</var>other payments as the commissioner may by rule prescribe.<br />
         		<a id="pl.58.6"></a><var>58.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Advance payments.</b> No fees or charges may be received or retained for <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.7"></a><var>58.7</var>any payments by the debtor made more than the following number of days in advance <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.8"></a><var>58.8</var>of the date specified in the debt management services agreement on which they are due: <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.9"></a><var>58.9</var>(1) 42 days in the case of contracts requiring monthly payments; (2) 15 days in the case <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.10"></a><var>58.10</var>of agreements requiring biweekly payments; or (3) seven days in the case of agreements <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.11"></a><var>58.11</var>requiring weekly payments. For those agreements which do not require payments in <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.12"></a><var>58.12</var>specified amounts, a payment is deemed an advance payment to the extent it exceeds <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.13"></a><var>58.13</var>twice the average regular payment previously made by the debtor under that contract. This <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.14"></a><var>58.14</var>subdivision does not apply when the debtor intends to use the advance payments to satisfy <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.15"></a><var>58.15</var>future payment of obligations due within 30 days under the contract. This subdivision <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.16"></a><var>58.16</var>supersedes any inconsistent provision of this chapter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.58.17"></a><var>58.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Consent of creditors.</b> A registrant must actively seek to obtain the consent <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.18"></a><var>58.18</var>of all creditors to the debt management services plan set forth in the debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.19"></a><var>58.19</var>services agreement. Consent by a creditor may be express and in writing, or may be <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.20"></a><var>58.20</var>evidenced by acceptance of a payment made under the debt management services plan <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.21"></a><var>58.21</var>set forth in the contract. The registrant must notify the debtor within ten days after any <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.22"></a><var>58.22</var>failure to obtain the required consent and of the debtor's right to cancel without penalty. <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.23"></a><var>58.23</var>The notice must be in a form as the commissioner shall prescribe. Nothing contained in <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.24"></a><var>58.24</var>this section is deemed to require the return of any origination fee and any fees earned by <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.25"></a><var>58.25</var>the registrant prior to cancellation or default.<br />
         		<a id="pl.58.26"></a><var>58.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 7. <b>Withdrawal of creditor.</b> Whenever a creditor withdraws from a debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.27"></a><var>58.27</var>management services plan, or refuses to participate in a debt management services plan, <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.28"></a><var>58.28</var>the registrant must promptly notify the debtor of the withdrawal or refusal. In no case <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.29"></a><var>58.29</var>may this notice be provided more than 15 days after the debt management services plan <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.30"></a><var>58.30</var>learns of the creditor's decision to withdraw from or refuse to participate in a plan. This <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.31"></a><var>58.31</var>notice must include the identity of the creditor withdrawing from the plan, the amount of <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.32"></a><var>58.32</var>the monthly payment to that creditor, and the right of the debtor to cancel the agreement <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.33"></a><var>58.33</var>under section 332A.11.<br />
         		<a id="pl.58.34"></a><var>58.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 8. <b>Payments held in trust.</b> The registrant must maintain a separate trust <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.35"></a><var>58.35</var>account and deposit in the account all payments received from the moment that they are <br />
         		<a id="pl.58.36"></a><var>58.36</var>received, except that the registrant may commingle the payment with the registrant's <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.1"></a><var>59.1</var>own property or funds, but only to the extent necessary to ensure the maintenance of a <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.2"></a><var>59.2</var>minimum balance if the financial institution at which the trust account is held requires <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.3"></a><var>59.3</var>a minimum balance to avoid the assessment of fees or penalties for failure to maintain <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.4"></a><var>59.4</var>a minimum balance. All disbursements, whether to the debtor or to the creditors of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.5"></a><var>59.5</var>debtor, or to the registrant, must be made from such account.<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.6"></a><var>59.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 9. <b>Timely payment of creditors.</b> The registrant must disburse any funds <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.7"></a><var>59.7</var>paid by or on behalf of a debtor to creditors of the consumer within 42 days after receipt <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.8"></a><var>59.8</var>of the funds, or earlier if necessary to comply with the due date in the contract between <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.9"></a><var>59.9</var>the debtor and the creditor, unless the reasonable payment of one or more of the debtor's <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.10"></a><var>59.10</var>obligations requires that the funds be held for a longer period so as to accumulate a sum <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.11"></a><var>59.11</var>certain, or where the debtor's payment is returned for insufficient funds or other reason <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.12"></a><var>59.12</var>that makes the withholding of such payments in the net interest of the debtor.<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.13"></a><var>59.13</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.66.0"></a><a id="pl.59.14"></a><var>59.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 66. <b>[332A.14] PROHIBITIONS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.59.15"></a><var>59.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A registrant shall not:<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.16"></a><var>59.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) purchase from a creditor any obligation of a debtor;<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.17"></a><var>59.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) use, threaten to use, seek to have used, or seek to have threatened the use of any <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.18"></a><var>59.18</var>legal process, including but not limited to garnishment and repossession of personal <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.19"></a><var>59.19</var>property, against any debtor while the debt management services agreement between the <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.20"></a><var>59.20</var>registrant and the debtor remains executory;<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.21"></a><var>59.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) advise a debtor to stop paying a creditor until a debt management services plan is <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.22"></a><var>59.22</var>in place;<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.23"></a><var>59.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) require as a condition of performing debt management services the purchase of <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.24"></a><var>59.24</var>any services, stock, insurance, commodity, or other property or any interest therein either <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.25"></a><var>59.25</var>by the debtor or the registrant;<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.26"></a><var>59.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) compromise any debts unless the prior written approval of the debtor has been <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.27"></a><var>59.27</var>obtained to such compromise and unless such compromise inures solely to the benefit <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.28"></a><var>59.28</var>of the debtor;<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.29"></a><var>59.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) receive from any debtor as security or in payment of any fee a promissory note <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.30"></a><var>59.30</var>or other promise to pay or any mortgage or other security, whether as to real or personal <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.31"></a><var>59.31</var>property;<br />
         		<a id="pl.59.32"></a><var>59.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) lend money or provide credit to any debtor if any interest or fee is charged, <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.33"></a><var>59.33</var>or directly or indirectly collect any fee for referring, advising, procuring, arranging, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.34"></a><var>59.34</var>assisting a consumer in obtaining any extension of credit or other debtor service from a <br />
         		<a id="pl.59.35"></a><var>59.35</var>lender or services provider;<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.1"></a><var>60.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) structure a debt management services agreement that would result in negative <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.2"></a><var>60.2</var>amortization of any debt in the plan;<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.3"></a><var>60.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) engage in any unfair, deceptive, or unconscionable act or practice in connection <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.4"></a><var>60.4</var>with any service provided to any debtor;<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.5"></a><var>60.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10) offer, pay, or give any material cash fee, gift, bonus, premium, reward, or other <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.6"></a><var>60.6</var>compensation to any person for referring any prospective customer to the registrant or for <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.7"></a><var>60.7</var>enrolling a debtor in a debt management services plan, or provide any other incentives <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.8"></a><var>60.8</var>for employees or agents of the debt management services provider to induce debtors to <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.9"></a><var>60.9</var>enter into a debt management plan;<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.10"></a><var>60.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(11) receive any cash, fee, gift, bonus, premium, reward, or other compensation <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.11"></a><var>60.11</var>from any person other than the debtor or a person on the debtor's behalf in connection <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.12"></a><var>60.12</var>with activities as a registrant, provided that this paragraph does not apply to a registrant <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.13"></a><var>60.13</var>which is a bona fide nonprofit corporation duly organized under chapter 317A or under <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.14"></a><var>60.14</var>the similar laws of another state;<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.15"></a><var>60.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(12) enter into a contract with a debtor unless a thorough written budget analysis <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.16"></a><var>60.16</var>indicates that the debtor can reasonably meet the requirements of the financial adjustment <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.17"></a><var>60.17</var>plan and will be benefited by the plan;<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.18"></a><var>60.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(13) in any way charge or purport to charge or provide any debtor credit insurance in <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.19"></a><var>60.19</var>conjunction with any contract or agreement involved in the debt management services <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.20"></a><var>60.20</var>plan;<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.21"></a><var>60.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(14) operate or employ a person who is an employee or owner of a collection agency <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.22"></a><var>60.22</var>or process-serving business; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.23"></a><var>60.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(15) require or attempt to require payment of a sum that the registrant states, <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.24"></a><var>60.24</var>discloses, or advertises to be a voluntary contribution from the debtor.<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.25"></a><var>60.25</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.67.0"></a><a id="pl.60.26"></a><var>60.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 67. <b>[332A.16] ADVERTISEMENT OF DEBT MANAGEMENT SERVICES </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.60.27"></a><var>60.27</var><b>PLANS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.60.28"></a><var>60.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No debt management services provider may make false, deceptive, or misleading <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.29"></a><var>60.29</var>statements or omissions about the rates, terms, or conditions of an actual or proposed <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.30"></a><var>60.30</var>debt management services plan or its debt management services, or create the likelihood <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.31"></a><var>60.31</var>of consumer confusion or misunderstanding regarding its services, including but not <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.32"></a><var>60.32</var>limited to the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.60.33"></a><var>60.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) represent that the debt management services provider is a nonprofit, not-for-profit, <br />
         		<a id="pl.60.34"></a><var>60.34</var>or has similar status or characteristics if some or all of the debt management services will <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.1"></a><var>61.1</var>be provided by a for-profit company that is a controlling or affiliated party to the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.2"></a><var>61.2</var>management services provider; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.3"></a><var>61.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) make any communication that gives the impression that the debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.4"></a><var>61.4</var>services provider is acting on behalf of a government agency.<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.5"></a><var>61.5</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.68.0"></a><a id="pl.61.6"></a><var>61.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 68. <b>[332A.17] DEBT MANAGEMENT SERVICES AGREEMENT </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.61.7"></a><var>61.7</var><b>RESCISSION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.61.8"></a><var>61.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Any debtor has the right to rescind any debt management services agreement with <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.9"></a><var>61.9</var>a debt management services provider that commits a material violation of this chapter. <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.10"></a><var>61.10</var>On rescission, all fees paid to the debt management services provider or any other person <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.11"></a><var>61.11</var>other than creditors of the debtor must be returned to the debtor entering into the debt <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.12"></a><var>61.12</var>management services agreement within ten days of rescission of the debt management <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.13"></a><var>61.13</var>services agreement.<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.14"></a><var>61.14</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.69.0"></a><a id="pl.61.15"></a><var>61.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 69. <b>[332A.18] ENFORCEMENT; REMEDIES.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.61.16"></a><var>61.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Violation a deceptive practice.</b> A violation of any of the provisions <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.17"></a><var>61.17</var>of this chapter is considered an unfair or deceptive trade practice under section 8.31, <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.18"></a><var>61.18</var>subdivision 1. A private right of action under section 8.31 by an aggrieved debtor is in <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.19"></a><var>61.19</var>the public interest.<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.20"></a><var>61.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Private right of action.</b> (a) A debt management services provider who <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.21"></a><var>61.21</var>fails to comply with any of the provisions of this chapter is liable under this section in <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.22"></a><var>61.22</var>an individual action for the sum of: (i) actual, incidental, and consequential damages <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.23"></a><var>61.23</var>sustained by the debtor as a result of the failure; and (ii) statutory damages of up to $1,000.<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.24"></a><var>61.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A debt management services provider who fails to comply with any of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.25"></a><var>61.25</var>provisions of this chapter is liable under this section in a class action for the sum of: (i) the <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.26"></a><var>61.26</var>amount that each named plaintiff could recover under paragraph (a), clause (i); and (ii) <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.27"></a><var>61.27</var>such amount as the court may allow for all other class members.<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.28"></a><var>61.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) In determining the amount of statutory damages, the court shall consider, among <br />
         		<a id="pl.61.29"></a><var>61.29</var>other relevant factors:<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.30"></a><var>61.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the frequency, nature, and persistence of noncompliance;<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.31"></a><var>61.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the extent to which the noncompliance was intentional; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.61.32"></a><var>61.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) in the case of a class action, the number of debtors adversely affected.<br />
         		<a id="pl.62.1"></a><var>62.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) A plaintiff or class successful in a legal or equitable action under this section is <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.2"></a><var>62.2</var>entitled to the costs of the action, plus reasonable attorney fees.<br />
         		<a id="pl.62.3"></a><var>62.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Injunctive relief.</b> A debtor may sue a debt management services provider <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.4"></a><var>62.4</var>for temporary or permanent injunctive or other appropriate equitable relief to prevent <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.5"></a><var>62.5</var>violations of any provision of this chapter. A court must grant injunctive relief on a <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.6"></a><var>62.6</var>showing that the debt management services provider has violated any provision of this <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.7"></a><var>62.7</var>chapter, or in the case of a temporary injunction, on a showing that the debtor is likely to <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.8"></a><var>62.8</var>prevail on allegations that the debt management services provider violated  any provision <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.9"></a><var>62.9</var>of this chapter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.62.10"></a><var>62.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Remedies cumulative.</b> The remedies provided in this section are <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.11"></a><var>62.11</var>cumulative and do not restrict any remedy that is otherwise available. The provisions <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.12"></a><var>62.12</var>of this chapter are not exclusive and are in addition to any other requirements, rights, <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.13"></a><var>62.13</var>remedies, and penalties provided by law.<br />
         		<a id="pl.62.14"></a><var>62.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Public enforcement.</b> The attorney general shall enforce this chapter <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.15"></a><var>62.15</var>under section 8.31.<br />
         		<a id="pl.62.16"></a><var>62.16</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.70.0"></a><a id="pl.62.17"></a><var>62.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 70. <b>[332A.19] INVESTIGATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.62.18"></a><var>62.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The commissioner may examine the books and records of every registrant and of <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.19"></a><var>62.19</var>any person engaged in the business of providing debt management services as defined in <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.20"></a><var>62.20</var>section 332A.02 at any reasonable time. The commissioner once during any calendar year <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.21"></a><var>62.21</var>may require the submission of an audit prepared by a certified public accountant of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.22"></a><var>62.22</var>books and records of each registrant. If the registrant has, within one year previous to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.23"></a><var>62.23</var>commissioner's demand, had an audit prepared for some other purpose, this audit may be <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.24"></a><var>62.24</var>submitted to satisfy the requirement of this section. The commissioner may investigate <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.25"></a><var>62.25</var>any complaint concerning violations of this chapter and may require the attendance and <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.26"></a><var>62.26</var>sworn testimony of witnesses and the production of documents.<br />
         		<a id="pl.62.27"></a><var>62.27</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.71.0"></a><a id="pl.62.28"></a><var>62.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 71. <b>LICENSE RENEWAL EXTENSION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.62.29"></a><var>62.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The July 31, 2007, renewal date for mortgage originators is extended to October 30, <br />
         		<a id="pl.62.30"></a><var>62.30</var>2007, because of the changes to the licensing requirements made by this article.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.2.72.0"></a><a id="pl.62.31"></a><var>62.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 72. <b> REPEALER.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.63.1"></a><var>63.1</var>(a) Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 46.043; 47.62, subdivision 5; and 58.08, <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.2"></a><var>63.2</var>subdivision 1, are repealed.<br />
         		<a id="pl.63.3"></a><var>63.3</var>(b) Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 332.12; 332.13; 332.14; 332.15; 332.16; <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.4"></a><var>63.4</var>332.17; 332.18; 332.19; 332.20; 332.21; 332.22; 332.23; 332.24; 332.25; 332.26; 332.27; <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.5"></a><var>63.5</var>332.28; and 332.29, are repealed effective January 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.0.0"></a><div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.63.6"></a><var>63.6</var><b>ARTICLE 3</b><br />
            		
         </div>
         <div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.63.7"></a><var>63.7</var><b>ENERGY</b><br />
            		
         </div><br />
         		<a id="bill.3.1.0"></a><a id="pl.63.8"></a><var>63.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Section 1. <b>[1.1499] STATE ENERGY CITY.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.63.9"></a><var>63.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The city of Elk River is designated as the state energy city.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.2.0"></a><a id="pl.63.10"></a><var>63.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 2. <b>[16C.141] EMPLOYEE SUGGESTIONS; ENERGY SAVINGS </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.63.11"></a><var>63.11</var><b>INCENTIVE PROGRAM.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.63.12"></a><var>63.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Creation of program.</b> The commissioner of administration must <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.13"></a><var>63.13</var>implement a program using best practices and develop policies under which state <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.14"></a><var>63.14</var>employees may receive cash awards for making suggestions that result in documented cost <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.15"></a><var>63.15</var>savings to state agencies from reduced energy usage in state-owned buildings. The cash <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.16"></a><var>63.16</var>awards must be an amount equal to half the amount of the energy costs saved by agencies <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.17"></a><var>63.17</var>in the year immediately following the implementation of the employee suggestion, up to <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.18"></a><var>63.18</var>$1,000 per suggestion. The program must include methods for documenting submission <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.19"></a><var>63.19</var>of suggestions and for documenting savings achieved as a result of these suggestions.<br />
         		<a id="pl.63.20"></a><var>63.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Funding.</b> To the extent necessary to fund the program under this section, <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.21"></a><var>63.21</var>the commissioner of administration, with approval of the commissioner of finance, may <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.22"></a><var>63.22</var>transfer a portion of the documented cost savings resulting from a suggestion under this <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.23"></a><var>63.23</var>section from the general services revolving fund to an energy savings reward account. <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.24"></a><var>63.24</var>Money in the energy savings reward account is appropriated to the commissioner for <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.25"></a><var>63.25</var>purposes of making cash rewards and paying the commissioner's incentive program <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.26"></a><var>63.26</var>developments costs and administrative expenses under this section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.63.27"></a><var>63.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Report to legislature.</b> The commissioner of administration shall report to <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.28"></a><var>63.28</var>the chairs of the senate and house of representatives committees with jurisdiction over <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.29"></a><var>63.29</var>energy policy by January 1, 2008, on the development of the incentive program, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.30"></a><var>63.30</var>by January 15 each year thereafter on the implementation of this section, including the <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.31"></a><var>63.31</var>ideas submitted and energy savings realized.<br />
         		<a id="pl.63.32"></a><var>63.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.</b> This section does not apply to <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.33"></a><var>63.33</var>the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, except to the extent the Board of Trustees <br />
         		<a id="pl.63.34"></a><var>63.34</var>of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities provides that the section does apply.<br />
         		<a id="pl.64.1"></a><var>64.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Repeal.</b> This section is repealed July 1, 2009.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.3.0"></a><a id="pl.64.2"></a><var>64.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 116C.779, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.64.3"></a><var>64.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Renewable energy production incentive.</b> (a) Until January 1, 2018, up to <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.4"></a><var>64.4</var>~~$10,900,000~~ $11,400,000 annually must be allocated from available funds in the account <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.5"></a><var>64.5</var>to fund renewable energy production incentives. $9,400,000 of this annual amount is for <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.6"></a><var>64.6</var>incentives for up to 200 megawatts of electricity generated by wind energy conversion <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.7"></a><var>64.7</var>systems that are eligible for the incentives under section 
         <statute_ref>216C.41</statute_ref>. ~~The balance of this~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.8"></a><var>64.8</var>~~amount,~~ Up to ~~$1,500,000~~ $1,000,000 annually~~,~~ may be used for production incentives for <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.9"></a><var>64.9</var>on-farm biogas recovery facilities and landfill gas recovery facilities that are eligible for <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.10"></a><var>64.10</var>the incentive under section 
         <statute_ref>216C.41</statute_ref> or for production incentives for other renewables, to <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.11"></a><var>64.11</var>be provided in the same manner as under section 
         <statute_ref>216C.41</statute_ref>. Of this amount, no more than <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.12"></a><var>64.12</var>$500,000 may be used for production incentives for landfill gas recovery facilities. Up <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.13"></a><var>64.13</var>to $1,000,000 may be used for grants for qualified on-farm biogas recovery facilities as <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.14"></a><var>64.14</var>provided in section 216C.42. Any portion of the ~~$10,900,000~~ $11,400,000 not expended <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.15"></a><var>64.15</var>in any calendar year for the incentive is available for other spending purposes under this <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.16"></a><var>64.16</var>section. This subdivision does not create an obligation to contribute funds to the account.<br />
         		<a id="pl.64.17"></a><var>64.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The Department of Commerce shall determine eligibility of projects under <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.18"></a><var>64.18</var>section 
         <statute_ref>216C.41</statute_ref> for the purposes of this subdivision. At least quarterly, the Department of <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.19"></a><var>64.19</var>Commerce shall notify the public utility of the name and address of each eligible project <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.20"></a><var>64.20</var>owner and the amount due to each project under section 
         <statute_ref>216C.41</statute_ref>. The public utility shall <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.21"></a><var>64.21</var>make payments within 15 working days after receipt of notification of payments due.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.4.0"></a><a id="pl.64.22"></a><var>64.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.241, subdivision 6, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.64.23"></a><var>64.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Renewable energy research.</b> (a) A public utility that owns a nuclear <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.24"></a><var>64.24</var>generation facility in the state shall spend five percent of the total amount that utility <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.25"></a><var>64.25</var>is required to spend under this section to support basic and applied research and <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.26"></a><var>64.26</var>demonstration activities at the University of Minnesota Initiative for Renewable Energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.27"></a><var>64.27</var>and the Environment for the development of renewable energy sources and technologies. <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.28"></a><var>64.28</var>The utility shall transfer the required amount to the University of Minnesota on or before <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.29"></a><var>64.29</var>July 1 of each year and that annual amount shall be deducted from the amount of money the <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.30"></a><var>64.30</var>utility is required to spend under this section. The University of Minnesota shall transfer <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.31"></a><var>64.31</var>at least ten percent of these funds to at least one rural campus or experiment station.<br />
         		<a id="pl.64.32"></a><var>64.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) ~~Research~~ Activities funded under this subdivision ~~shall~~ may include, but are <br />
         		<a id="pl.64.33"></a><var>64.33</var>not limited to:<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.1"></a><var>65.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(1) development of environmentally sound production, distribution, and use of~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.2"></a><var>65.2</var>~~energy, chemicals, and materials from renewable sources;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.3"></a><var>65.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(2) processing and utilization of agricultural and forestry plant products and other~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.4"></a><var>65.4</var>~~bio-based, renewable sources as a substitute for fossil-fuel-based energy, chemicals, and~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.5"></a><var>65.5</var>~~materials using a variety of means including biocatalysis, biorefining, and fermentation;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.6"></a><var>65.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(3) conversion of state wind resources to hydrogen for energy storage and~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.7"></a><var>65.7</var>~~transportation to areas of energy demand;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.8"></a><var>65.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(4) improvements in scalable hydrogen fuel cell technologies; and~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.9"></a><var>65.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(5) production of hydrogen from bio-based, renewable sources; and sequestration~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.10"></a><var>65.10</var>~~of carbon.~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.11"></a><var>65.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) environmentally sound production of energy from a renewable energy source <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.12"></a><var>65.12</var>including biomass; <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.13"></a><var>65.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) environmentally sound production of hydrogen from biomass and any other <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.14"></a><var>65.14</var>renewable energy source for energy storage and energy utilization; <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.15"></a><var>65.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) development of energy conservation and efficient energy utilization technologies; <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.16"></a><var>65.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) energy storage technologies; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.17"></a><var>65.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) analysis of policy options to facilitate adoption of technologies that use or <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.18"></a><var>65.18</var>produce  a  renewable energy source. <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.19"></a><var>65.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Notwithstanding other law to the contrary, the utility may, but is not required to, <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.20"></a><var>65.20</var>spend more than two percent of its gross operating revenues from service provided in this <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.21"></a><var>65.21</var>state under this section or section 
         <statute_ref>216B.2411</statute_ref>. <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.22"></a><var>65.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) For the purposes of this subdivision:<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.23"></a><var>65.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) "renewable energy source: means hydro, wind, solar, biomass and geothermal <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.24"></a><var>65.24</var>energy, and microorganisms used as an energy source; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.25"></a><var>65.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) "biomass" means plant and animal material, agricultural and forest residues, <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.26"></a><var>65.26</var>mixed municipal solid waste, and sludge from wastewater treatment.<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.27"></a><var>65.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) This subdivision expires June 30, ~~2008~~ 2010.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.5.0"></a><a id="pl.65.28"></a><var>65.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.812, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.65.29"></a><var>65.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Early purchase and deployment of</b><b> renewable</b><b> hydrogen, fuel </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.65.30"></a><var>65.30</var><b>cells, and related technologies by the state.</b> (a) The Department of Commerce, in <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.31"></a><var>65.31</var>~~conjunction~~ coordination with the Department of Administration and the Pollution Control <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.32"></a><var>65.32</var>Agency, shall identify opportunities for ~~demonstrating the use of~~ deploying renewable <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.33"></a><var>65.33</var>hydrogen, fuel cells, and related technologies within state-owned facilities, vehicle fleets, <br />
         		<a id="pl.65.34"></a><var>65.34</var>and operations in ways that demonstrate their commercial performance and economics.<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.1"></a><var>66.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The Department of Commerce shall recommend to the Department of <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.2"></a><var>66.2</var>Administration~~, when feasible,~~ the purchase and ~~demonstration~~ deployment of hydrogen, <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.3"></a><var>66.3</var>fuel cells, and related technologies, when feasible,  in ways that strategically contribute <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.4"></a><var>66.4</var>to realizing Minnesota's hydrogen economy goal as set forth in section 
         <statute_ref>216B.8109</statute_ref>, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.5"></a><var>66.5</var>which contribute to the following nonexclusive list of objectives:<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.6"></a><var>66.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) provide needed performance data to the marketplace;<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.7"></a><var>66.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) identify code and regulatory issues to be resolved;<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.8"></a><var>66.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) foster economic development and job creation in the state;<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.9"></a><var>66.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) raise public awareness of renewable hydrogen, fuel cells, and related <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.10"></a><var>66.10</var>technologies; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.11"></a><var>66.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants.<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.12"></a><var>66.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The Department of Commerce and the Pollution Control Agency shall also <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.13"></a><var>66.13</var>recommend to the Department of Administration changes to the state's procurement <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.14"></a><var>66.14</var>guidelines and contracts in order to facilitate the purchase and deployment of cost-effective <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.15"></a><var>66.15</var>renewable hydrogen, fuel cells, and related technologies by all levels of government.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.6.0"></a><a id="pl.66.16"></a><var>66.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.812, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.17"></a><var>66.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Pilot projects.</b> (a) In consultation with appropriate representatives from <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.18"></a><var>66.18</var>state agencies, local governments, universities, businesses, and other interested parties, <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.19"></a><var>66.19</var>the Department of Commerce shall report back to the legislature by November 1, 2005, <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.20"></a><var>66.20</var>and every two years thereafter, with a slate of proposed pilot projects that contribute to <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.21"></a><var>66.21</var>realizing Minnesota's hydrogen economy goal as set forth in section 
         <statute_ref>216B.8109</statute_ref>. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.22"></a><var>66.22</var>Department of Commerce must consider the following nonexclusive list of priorities in <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.23"></a><var>66.23</var>developing the proposed slate of pilot projects:<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.24"></a><var>66.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) ~~demonstrate~~ deploy "bridge" technologies such as hybrid-electric, off-road, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.25"></a><var>66.25</var>fleet vehicles running on hydrogen or fuels blended with hydrogen;<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.26"></a><var>66.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) ~~develop~~ lead to cost-competitive, on-site renewable hydrogen production <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.27"></a><var>66.27</var>technologies;<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.28"></a><var>66.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) demonstrate nonvehicle applications for hydrogen;<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.29"></a><var>66.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) improve the cost and efficiency of hydrogen from renewable energy sources; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.30"></a><var>66.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) improve the cost and efficiency of hydrogen production using direct solar energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.31"></a><var>66.31</var>without electricity generation as an intermediate step.<br />
         		<a id="pl.66.32"></a><var>66.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) For ~~all demonstrations~~ deployment projects that do not involve a demonstration <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.33"></a><var>66.33</var>component, individual system components of the technology ~~must~~ should, if feasible, meet <br />
         		<a id="pl.66.34"></a><var>66.34</var>commercial performance standards and systems modeling must be completed to predict <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.1"></a><var>67.1</var>commercial performance, risk, and synergies. In addition, the proposed pilots should meet <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.2"></a><var>67.2</var>as many of the following criteria as possible:<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.3"></a><var>67.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) advance energy security;<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.4"></a><var>67.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) capitalize on the state's native resources;<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.5"></a><var>67.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) result in economically competitive infrastructure being put in place;<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.6"></a><var>67.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) be located where it will link well with existing and related projects and be <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.7"></a><var>67.7</var>accessible to the public, now or in the future;<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.8"></a><var>67.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) demonstrate multiple, integrated aspects of renewable hydrogen infrastructure;<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.9"></a><var>67.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) include an explicit public education and awareness component;<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.10"></a><var>67.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) be scalable to respond to changing circumstances and market demands;<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.11"></a><var>67.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) draw on firms and expertise within the state where possible;<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.12"></a><var>67.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) include an assessment of its economic, environmental, and social impact; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.13"></a><var>67.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10) serve other needs beyond hydrogen development.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.7.0"></a><a id="pl.67.14"></a><var>67.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 7. <b>[216B.813] MINNESOTA RENEWABLE HYDROGEN INITIATIVE.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.67.15"></a><var>67.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Road map.</b> The Department of Commerce shall coordinate and <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.16"></a><var>67.16</var>administer directly or by contract the Minnesota renewable hydrogen initiative. If the <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.17"></a><var>67.17</var>department decides to contract for its duties under this section, it must contract with a <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.18"></a><var>67.18</var>nonpartisan, nonprofit organization within the state to develop the road map. The initiative <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.19"></a><var>67.19</var>may be run as a public-private partnership representing business, academic, governmental, <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.20"></a><var>67.20</var>and nongovernmental organizations. The initiative must oversee the development and <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.21"></a><var>67.21</var>implementation of a renewable hydrogen road map, including appropriate technology <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.22"></a><var>67.22</var>deployments, that achieve the hydrogen goal of section 216B.013. The road map should <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.23"></a><var>67.23</var>be compatible with the United States Department of Energy's National Hydrogen Energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.24"></a><var>67.24</var>Roadmap and be based on an assessment of marketplace economics and the state's <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.25"></a><var>67.25</var>opportunities in hydrogen, fuel cells, and related technologies, so as to capitalize on <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.26"></a><var>67.26</var>strengths. The road map should establish a vision, goals, general timeline, strategies for <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.27"></a><var>67.27</var>working with industry, and measurable milestones for achieving the state's renewable <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.28"></a><var>67.28</var>hydrogen goal. The road map should describe how renewable hydrogen and fuel cells fit <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.29"></a><var>67.29</var>in Minnesota's overall energy system, and should help foster a consistent, predictable, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.30"></a><var>67.30</var>prudent investment environment. The department must report to the legislature on the <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.31"></a><var>67.31</var>progress in implementing the road map by November 1 of each odd-numbered year.<br />
         		<a id="pl.67.32"></a><var>67.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Grants.</b> (a) The commissioner of commerce shall operate a competitive <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.33"></a><var>67.33</var>grant program for projects to assist the state in attaining its renewable hydrogen energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.34"></a><var>67.34</var>goals. The commissioner of commerce shall assemble an advisory committee made up of <br />
         		<a id="pl.67.35"></a><var>67.35</var>industry, university, government, and nongovernment organizations to:<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.1"></a><var>68.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) help identify the most promising technology deployment projects for public <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.2"></a><var>68.2</var>investment;<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.3"></a><var>68.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) advise on the technical specifications for those projects; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.4"></a><var>68.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) make recommendations on project grants.<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.5"></a><var>68.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The commissioner shall give preference to project concepts included in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.6"></a><var>68.6</var>department's most recent biennial report: Strategic Demonstration Projects to Accelerate <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.7"></a><var>68.7</var>the Commercialization of Renewable Hydrogen and Related Technologies in Minnesota. <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.8"></a><var>68.8</var>Projects eligible for funding must combine one or more of the hydrogen production <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.9"></a><var>68.9</var>options listed in the department's report with an end use that has significant commercial <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.10"></a><var>68.10</var>potential, preferably high visibility, and relies on fuel cells or related technologies. Each <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.11"></a><var>68.11</var>funded technology deployment must include an explicit education and awareness-raising <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.12"></a><var>68.12</var>component, be compatible with the renewable hydrogen deployment criteria defined in <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.13"></a><var>68.13</var>section 216B.812, and receive 50 percent of its total cost from nonstate sources. The 50 <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.14"></a><var>68.14</var>percent requirement does not apply for recipients that are public institutions.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.8.0"></a><a id="pl.68.15"></a><var>68.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216C.051, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.16"></a><var>68.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Establishment.</b> (a) There is established a Legislative Electric Energy Task <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.17"></a><var>68.17</var>Force to study future electric energy sources and costs and to make recommendations <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.18"></a><var>68.18</var>for legislation for an environmentally and economically sustainable and advantageous <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.19"></a><var>68.19</var>electric energy supply.<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.20"></a><var>68.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The task force consists of:<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.21"></a><var>68.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) ten members of the house of representatives including the chairs of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.22"></a><var>68.22</var>Environment and Natural Resources Committee and ~~Regulated Industries Subcommittee~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.23"></a><var>68.23</var>the Energy Finance and Policy Division and eight members to be appointed by the speaker <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.24"></a><var>68.24</var>of the house, four of whom must be from the minority caucus; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.25"></a><var>68.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) ten members of the senate including the chairs of the Environment, Energy and <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.26"></a><var>68.26</var>Natural Resources Budget Division and ~~Jobs,~~ Energy, ~~and Community Development~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.27"></a><var>68.27</var>Utilities, Technology and Communications committees and eight members to be appointed <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.28"></a><var>68.28</var>by the Subcommittee on Committees, four of whom must be from the minority caucus.<br />
         		<a id="pl.68.29"></a><var>68.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The task force may employ staff, contract for consulting services, and may <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.30"></a><var>68.30</var>reimburse the expenses of persons requested to assist it in its duties other than state <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.31"></a><var>68.31</var>employees or employees of electric utilities. The director of the Legislative Coordinating <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.32"></a><var>68.32</var>Commission shall assist the task force in administrative matters. The task force shall <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.33"></a><var>68.33</var>elect cochairs, one member of the house and one member of the senate from among the <br />
         		<a id="pl.68.34"></a><var>68.34</var>committee and subcommittee chairs named to the committee. The task force members <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.1"></a><var>69.1</var>from the house shall elect the house cochair, and the task force members from the senate <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.2"></a><var>69.2</var>shall elect the senate cochair.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.9.0"></a><a id="pl.69.3"></a><var>69.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 9. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216C.051, subdivision 9, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.69.4"></a><var>69.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 9. <b>Expiration.</b> This section is repealed June 30, ~~2007~~ 2008.<br />
         		<a id="pl.69.5"></a><var>69.5</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.10.0"></a><a id="pl.69.6"></a><var>69.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 10. <b>[216C.385] CLEAN ENERGY RESOURCE TEAMS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.69.7"></a><var>69.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Findings.</b> The legislature finds that community-based energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.8"></a><var>69.8</var>programs are an effective means of implementing improved energy practices including <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.9"></a><var>69.9</var>conservation, greater efficiency in energy use, and the production and use of renewable <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.10"></a><var>69.10</var>resources such as wind, solar, biomass, and biofuels. Further, community-based energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.11"></a><var>69.11</var>programs are found to be a public purpose for which public money may be spent.<br />
         		<a id="pl.69.12"></a><var>69.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Mission, organization, and membership.</b> The Clean Energy Resource <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.13"></a><var>69.13</var>Teams (CERT's) project is an innovative state, university, and nonprofit partnership that <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.14"></a><var>69.14</var>serves as a catalyst for community energy planning and projects. The mission of CERT's <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.15"></a><var>69.15</var>is to give citizens a voice in the energy planning process by connecting them with the <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.16"></a><var>69.16</var>necessary technical resources to identify and implement community-scale renewable <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.17"></a><var>69.17</var>energy and energy efficiency projects. In 2003, the Department of Commerce designated <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.18"></a><var>69.18</var>the CERT's project as a statewide collaborative venture and recognized six regional teams <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.19"></a><var>69.19</var>based on their geography: Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.20"></a><var>69.20</var>West-Central. Membership of CERT's may include but is not limited to representatives <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.21"></a><var>69.21</var>of utilities; federal, state, and local governments; small business; labor; senior citizens; <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.22"></a><var>69.22</var>academia; and other interested parties. The Department of Commerce may certify <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.23"></a><var>69.23</var>additional Clean Energy Resource Teams by regional geography, including teams in <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.24"></a><var>69.24</var>the Twin Cities metropolitan area.<br />
         		<a id="pl.69.25"></a><var>69.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Powers and duties.</b> In order to develop and implement community-based <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.26"></a><var>69.26</var>energy programs, a Clean Energy Resource Team may:<br />
         		<a id="pl.69.27"></a><var>69.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) analyze social and economic impacts caused by energy expenditures;<br />
         		<a id="pl.69.28"></a><var>69.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) analyze regional renewable and energy efficiency resources and opportunities;<br />
         		<a id="pl.69.29"></a><var>69.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) link community members and community energy projects to the knowledge <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.30"></a><var>69.30</var>and capabilities of the University of Minnesota, the State Energy Office, nonprofit <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.31"></a><var>69.31</var>organizations, and regional community members, among others;<br />
         		<a id="pl.69.32"></a><var>69.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) plan, set priorities for, provide technical assistance to, and catalyze local energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.33"></a><var>69.33</var>efficiency and renewable energy projects that help to meet state energy policy goals and <br />
         		<a id="pl.69.34"></a><var>69.34</var>maximize local economic development opportunities;<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.1"></a><var>70.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) provide a broad-based resource and communications network that links local, <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.2"></a><var>70.2</var>county, and regional energy efficiency and renewable energy project efforts around the <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.3"></a><var>70.3</var>state (both interregional and intraregional);<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.4"></a><var>70.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) seek, accept, and disburse grants and other aids from public or private sources <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.5"></a><var>70.5</var>for purposes authorized in this subdivision;<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.6"></a><var>70.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) provides a convening and networking function within CERT's regions to facilitate <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.7"></a><var>70.7</var>education, knowledge formation, and project replication; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.8"></a><var>70.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) exercise other powers and duties imposed on it by statute, charter, or ordinance.<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.9"></a><var>70.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Department assistance.</b> The commissioner, via the Clean Energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.10"></a><var>70.10</var>Resource Teams, may provide professional, technical, organizational, and financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.11"></a><var>70.11</var>assistance to regions and communities to develop and implement community energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.12"></a><var>70.12</var>programs and projects, within available resources.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.11.0"></a><a id="pl.70.13"></a><var>70.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 11. <b>[216C.39] RURAL WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT REVOLVING </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.70.14"></a><var>70.14</var><b>LOAN FUND.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.70.15"></a><var>70.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Establishment.</b> A rural wind energy development revolving loan <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.16"></a><var>70.16</var>fund is established as an account in the special revenue fund in the state treasury. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.17"></a><var>70.17</var>commissioner of finance shall credit to the account the amounts authorized under this <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.18"></a><var>70.18</var>section and appropriations and transfers to the account. Earnings, such as interest, <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.19"></a><var>70.19</var>dividends, and any other earnings arising from fund assets, must be credited to the account.<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.20"></a><var>70.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Purpose.</b> The rural wind energy development revolving loan fund <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.21"></a><var>70.21</var>is created to provide financial assistance, through partnership with local owners and <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.22"></a><var>70.22</var>communities, in developing community wind energy projects that meet the specifications <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.23"></a><var>70.23</var>of section 216B.1612, subdivision 2, paragraph (f).<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.24"></a><var>70.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Expenditures.</b> Money in the fund is appropriated to the commissioner <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.25"></a><var>70.25</var>of commerce, and may be used to make loans to qualifying owners of wind energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.26"></a><var>70.26</var>projects, as defined in section 216B.1612, subdivision 2, paragraph (f), to assist in funding <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.27"></a><var>70.27</var>wind studies and transmission interconnection studies. The loans must be structured for <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.28"></a><var>70.28</var>repayment within 30 days after the project begins commercial operations or two years <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.29"></a><var>70.29</var>from the date the loan is issued, whichever is sooner.<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.30"></a><var>70.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Limitations.</b> A loan may not be approved for an amount exceeding <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.31"></a><var>70.31</var>$100,000. This limit applies to all money loaned to a single project or single entity, <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.32"></a><var>70.32</var>whether paid to one or more qualifying owners and whether paid in one or more fiscal <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.33"></a><var>70.33</var>years.<br />
         		<a id="pl.70.34"></a><var>70.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Administration; eligible projects.</b> (a) Applications for a loan under <br />
         		<a id="pl.70.35"></a><var>70.35</var>this section must be made in a manner and on forms prescribed by the commissioner. <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.1"></a><var>71.1</var>Loans to eligible projects must be made in the order in which complete applications are <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.2"></a><var>71.2</var>received by the commissioner. Loan funds must be disbursed to an applicant within ten <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.3"></a><var>71.3</var>days of submission of a payment request by the applicant that demonstrates a payment <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.4"></a><var>71.4</var>due to the Midwest Independent System Operator. Interest payable on the loan amount <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.5"></a><var>71.5</var>may not exceed 1.5 percent per annum.<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.6"></a><var>71.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A project is eligible for a loan under this program if:<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.7"></a><var>71.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the project has completed an adequate interconnection feasibility study that <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.8"></a><var>71.8</var>indicates the project may be interconnected with system upgrades of less than ten percent <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.9"></a><var>71.9</var>of the estimated project costs;<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.10"></a><var>71.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the project has a signed power purchase agreement with an electric utility or <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.11"></a><var>71.11</var>provides evidence that the project is under serious consideration for such an agreement by <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.12"></a><var>71.12</var>an electric utility;<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.13"></a><var>71.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the ownership and structure of the project allows it to qualify as a <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.14"></a><var>71.14</var>community-based energy development (C-BED) project under section 216B.1612, and the <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.15"></a><var>71.15</var>developer commits to obtaining and maintaining C-BED status; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.16"></a><var>71.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the commissioner has determined that sufficient funds are available to make a <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.17"></a><var>71.17</var>loan to the project.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.12.0"></a><a id="pl.71.18"></a><var>71.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 12. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216C.41, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.19"></a><var>71.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Definitions.</b> (a) Unless otherwise provided, the definitions in this <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.20"></a><var>71.20</var>subdivision apply to this section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.21"></a><var>71.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) "Qualified hydroelectric facility" means a hydroelectric generating facility in <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.22"></a><var>71.22</var>this state that:<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.23"></a><var>71.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) is located at the site of a dam, if the dam was in existence as of March 31, <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.24"></a><var>71.24</var>1994; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.25"></a><var>71.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) begins generating electricity after July 1, 1994, or generates electricity after <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.26"></a><var>71.26</var>substantial refurbishing of a facility that begins after July 1, 2001.<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.27"></a><var>71.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) "Qualified wind energy conversion facility" means a wind energy conversion <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.28"></a><var>71.28</var>system in this state that:<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.29"></a><var>71.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) produces two megawatts or less of electricity as measured by nameplate rating <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.30"></a><var>71.30</var>and begins generating electricity after December 31, 1996, and before July 1, 1999;<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.31"></a><var>71.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) begins generating electricity after June 30, 1999, produces two megawatts or <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.32"></a><var>71.32</var>less of electricity as measured by nameplate rating, and is:<br />
         		<a id="pl.71.33"></a><var>71.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) owned by a resident of Minnesota or an entity that is organized under the laws <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.34"></a><var>71.34</var>of this state, is not prohibited from owning agricultural land under section 
         <statute_ref>500.24</statute_ref>, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.71.35"></a><var>71.35</var>owns the land where the facility is sited;<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.1"></a><var>72.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) owned by a Minnesota small business as defined in section 
         <statute_ref>645.445</statute_ref>;<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.2"></a><var>72.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) owned by a Minnesota nonprofit organization;<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.3"></a><var>72.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) owned by a tribal council if the facility is located within the boundaries of <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.4"></a><var>72.4</var>the reservation;<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.5"></a><var>72.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(v) owned by a Minnesota municipal utility or a Minnesota cooperative electric <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.6"></a><var>72.6</var>association; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.7"></a><var>72.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(vi) owned by a Minnesota political subdivision or local government, including, <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.8"></a><var>72.8</var>but not limited to, a county, statutory or home rule charter city, town, school district, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.9"></a><var>72.9</var>any other local or regional governmental organization such as a board, commission, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.10"></a><var>72.10</var>association; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.11"></a><var>72.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) begins generating electricity after June 30, 1999, produces seven megawatts or <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.12"></a><var>72.12</var>less of electricity as measured by nameplate rating, and:<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.13"></a><var>72.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) is owned by a cooperative organized under chapter 308A other than a Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.14"></a><var>72.14</var>cooperative electric association; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.15"></a><var>72.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) all shares and membership in the cooperative are held by an entity that is not <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.16"></a><var>72.16</var>prohibited from owning agricultural land under section 
         <statute_ref>500.24</statute_ref>.<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.17"></a><var>72.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) "Qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility" means an anaerobic digester system <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.18"></a><var>72.18</var>that:<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.19"></a><var>72.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) is located at the site of an agricultural operation; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.20"></a><var>72.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) is owned by an entity that is not prohibited from owning agricultural land under <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.21"></a><var>72.21</var>section 
         <statute_ref>500.24</statute_ref> and that owns or rents the land where the facility is located.<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.22"></a><var>72.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) "Anaerobic digester system" means a system of components that processes <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.23"></a><var>72.23</var>animal waste based on the absence of oxygen and produces gas used to generate electricity.<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.24"></a><var>72.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) "Qualified landfill gas recovery facility" means a landfill that is operating or <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.25"></a><var>72.25</var>closed, that generates gas from the decomposition of organic matter, and that installs a <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.26"></a><var>72.26</var>system to collect the gas after July 1, 2007.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.13.0"></a><a id="pl.72.27"></a><var>72.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 13. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216C.41, subdivision 2, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.72.28"></a><var>72.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Incentive payment; appropriation.</b> (a) Incentive payments must be made <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.29"></a><var>72.29</var>according to this section to (1) a qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility, (2) the owner <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.30"></a><var>72.30</var>or operator of a qualified hydropower facility or qualified wind energy conversion facility <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.31"></a><var>72.31</var>for electric energy generated and sold by the facility, (3) a publicly owned hydropower <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.32"></a><var>72.32</var>facility for electric energy that is generated by the facility and used by the owner of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.33"></a><var>72.33</var>facility outside the facility, ~~or~~ (4) the owner of a publicly owned dam that is in need of <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.34"></a><var>72.34</var>substantial repair, for electric energy that is generated by a hydropower facility at the <br />
         		<a id="pl.72.35"></a><var>72.35</var>dam and the annual incentive payments will be used to fund the structural repairs and <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.1"></a><var>73.1</var>replacement of structural components of the dam, or to retire debt incurred to fund those <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.2"></a><var>73.2</var>repairs, or (5) a qualified landfill gas recovery facility.<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.3"></a><var>73.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Payment may only be made upon receipt by the commissioner of commerce of <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.4"></a><var>73.4</var>an incentive payment application that establishes that the applicant is eligible to receive an <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.5"></a><var>73.5</var>incentive payment and that satisfies other requirements the commissioner deems necessary. <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.6"></a><var>73.6</var>The application must be in a form and submitted at a time the commissioner establishes.<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.7"></a><var>73.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) There is annually appropriated from the renewable development account <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.8"></a><var>73.8</var>under section 
         <statute_ref>116C.779</statute_ref> to the commissioner of commerce sums sufficient to make the <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.9"></a><var>73.9</var>payments required under this section, in addition to the amounts funded by the renewable <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.10"></a><var>73.10</var>development account as specified in subdivision 5a.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.14.0"></a><a id="pl.73.11"></a><var>73.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 14. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216C.41, subdivision 3, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.12"></a><var>73.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Eligibility window.</b> Payments may be made under this section only for:<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.13"></a><var>73.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) electricity generated from:<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.14"></a><var>73.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) ~~from~~ a qualified hydroelectric facility that is operational and generating <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.15"></a><var>73.15</var>electricity before December 31, 2009;<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.16"></a><var>73.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) ~~from~~ a qualified wind energy conversion facility that is operational and <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.17"></a><var>73.17</var>generating electricity before January 1, 2008; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.18"></a><var>73.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) ~~from~~ a qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility from July 1, 2001, through <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.19"></a><var>73.19</var>December 31, 2017; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.20"></a><var>73.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) gas generated from: <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.21"></a><var>73.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) a qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility from July 1, 2007, through December <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.22"></a><var>73.22</var>31, 2017; or <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.23"></a><var>73.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) a qualified landfill gas recovery facility from July 1, 2007, through December <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.24"></a><var>73.24</var>31, 2017.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.15.0"></a><a id="pl.73.25"></a><var>73.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 15. <b>[216C.42] ON-FARM BIOGAS RECOVERY GRANTS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.73.26"></a><var>73.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Definitions.</b> For the purpose of this section, the following terms <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.27"></a><var>73.27</var>have the meanings given.<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.28"></a><var>73.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) "Qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility" means an anaerobic digester system <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.29"></a><var>73.29</var>that:<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.30"></a><var>73.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) is located at the site of an agricultural operation;<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.31"></a><var>73.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) is owned by an entity that is not prohibited from owning agricultural land under <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.32"></a><var>73.32</var>section 500.24 and that owns or rents the land where the facility is located; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.73.33"></a><var>73.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) is owned by a qualified owner as defined in section 216B.1612, subdivision 2, <br />
         		<a id="pl.73.34"></a><var>73.34</var>paragraph (c).<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.1"></a><var>74.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) "Anaerobic digester system" means a system of components that processes <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.2"></a><var>74.2</var>animal waste based on the absence of oxygen and produces gas.<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.3"></a><var>74.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of agriculture.<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.4"></a><var>74.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Eligibility.</b> Subject to the availability of funds, the commissioner must <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.5"></a><var>74.5</var>approve grants to a qualified owner of a qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility for the <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.6"></a><var>74.6</var>total installed costs of capital investments associated with the facility, up to a maximum of <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.7"></a><var>74.7</var>$500,000.<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.8"></a><var>74.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Application.</b> Application for a grant under this section must be made by a <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.9"></a><var>74.9</var>qualified owner to the commissioner on a form the commissioner prescribes by rule. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.10"></a><var>74.10</var>commissioner must review each application to determine:<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.11"></a><var>74.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) whether the application is complete;<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.12"></a><var>74.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) whether the information, calculations, and estimates contained in the application <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.13"></a><var>74.13</var>are appropriate, accurate, and reasonable;<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.14"></a><var>74.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) whether the project is eligible for a grant;<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.15"></a><var>74.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the amount of the grant for which the project is eligible; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.16"></a><var>74.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) other funding sources the owner proposes to use to finance the project in addition <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.17"></a><var>74.17</var>to a grant authorized by this section. <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.18"></a><var>74.18</var>An applicant may submit only one grant application each year under this section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.19"></a><var>74.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Additional information.</b> During application review, the commissioner <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.20"></a><var>74.20</var>may request additional information about a proposed project, including information on <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.21"></a><var>74.21</var>project cost. Failure to provide information requested disqualifies a grant application.<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.22"></a><var>74.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Public accessibility of grant application data.</b> Data contained in an <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.23"></a><var>74.23</var>application submitted to the commissioner for a grant under this section, including <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.24"></a><var>74.24</var>supporting technical documentation, is classified as public data not on individuals under <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.25"></a><var>74.25</var>section 13.02, subdivision 14.<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.26"></a><var>74.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Rules.</b> The commissioner must adopt rules necessary to implement this <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.27"></a><var>74.27</var>section. The rules must contain at a minimum:<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.28"></a><var>74.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) standards for project eligibility;<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.29"></a><var>74.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) criteria for reviewing grant applications; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.30"></a><var>74.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) procedures and guidelines for program monitoring and evaluation.<br />
         		<a id="pl.74.31"></a><var>74.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 7. <b>Right of first refusal.</b> A utility that provides electric service at retail in <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.32"></a><var>74.32</var>the area where the qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility is located has the right of <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.33"></a><var>74.33</var>first refusal for any gas produced by a qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility that has <br />
         		<a id="pl.74.34"></a><var>74.34</var>received a grant under this section. A utility's right of first refusal expires if:<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.1"></a><var>75.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) within 45 days after the qualified owner files an incentive payment application <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.2"></a><var>75.2</var>with the commissioner, the utility fails to send a letter of intent to the qualified owner <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.3"></a><var>75.3</var>indicating the utility's willingness to negotiate a purchase agreement; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.4"></a><var>75.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the parties enter negotiations but fail to reach agreement within 120 days after <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.5"></a><var>75.5</var>the qualified owner files an incentive payment application with the commissioner.<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.6"></a><var>75.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 8. <b>Eligibility toward renewable energy objective.</b> Any gas generated by <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.7"></a><var>75.7</var>a qualified on-farm biogas recovery facility awarded a grant under this section that is <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.8"></a><var>75.8</var>purchased by a utility may be counted toward the utility's renewable energy objective <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.9"></a><var>75.9</var>under section 216B.1691, subdivision 2.<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.10"></a><var>75.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 9. <b>Appropriation.</b> Up to $1,000,000 is appropriated annually from the <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.11"></a><var>75.11</var>renewable development account through fiscal year 2015 to the commissioner of <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.12"></a><var>75.12</var>agriculture for the purpose of providing grants to qualified on-farm biogas recovery <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.13"></a><var>75.13</var>facilities.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.16.0"></a><a id="pl.75.14"></a><var>75.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 16. <b>[561.20] NUISANCE LIABILITY OF WIND ENERGY CONVERSION </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.75.15"></a><var>75.15</var><b>SYSTEMS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.75.16"></a><var>75.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Definition.</b> For the purposes of this section, "wind energy conversion <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.17"></a><var>75.17</var>system" has the meaning given in section 216C.06.<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.18"></a><var>75.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Wind energy conversion system not a nuisance.</b>  (a) A wind energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.19"></a><var>75.19</var>conversion system is not and does not become a private or public nuisance after two years <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.20"></a><var>75.20</var>from the date it begins generating electricity as a matter of law if the system:<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.21"></a><var>75.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) complies with all applicable federal, state, or county laws, regulations, rules, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.22"></a><var>75.22</var>ordinances and any permits issued for it; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.23"></a><var>75.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) operates according to generally accepted practices.<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.24"></a><var>75.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) For a period of two years from the date it begins generating electricity, there is <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.25"></a><var>75.25</var>a rebuttable presumption that a wind energy conversion system in compliance with the <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.26"></a><var>75.26</var>requirements of paragraph (a) is not a public or private nuisance.<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.27"></a><var>75.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) This subdivision does not apply:<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.28"></a><var>75.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) to any prosecution for the crime of public nuisance as provided in section <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.29"></a><var>75.29</var>609.74 or to an action by a public authority to abate a particular condition that is a public <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.30"></a><var>75.30</var>nuisance; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.31"></a><var>75.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) to any enforcement action brought by a local unit of government related to <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.32"></a><var>75.32</var>zoning under chapter 394 or 462.<br />
         		<a id="pl.75.33"></a><var>75.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Existing contracts.</b> This section must not be construed to invalidate any <br />
         		<a id="pl.75.34"></a><var>75.34</var>contracts or commitments made before the effective date of this section.<br />
         		<a id="pl.76.1"></a><var>76.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Severability.</b> If a provision of this section, or application thereof to any <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.2"></a><var>76.2</var>person or set of circumstances, is held invalid or unconstitutional, the invalidity does not <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.3"></a><var>76.3</var>affect other  provisions or applications of this section that can be given effect without the <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.4"></a><var>76.4</var>invalid provision  or application. To that end, the provisions of this section are declared to <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.5"></a><var>76.5</var>be severable.<br />
         		<a id="pl.76.6"></a><var>76.6</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.17.0"></a><a id="pl.76.7"></a><var>76.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 17. <b>PETROLEUM VIOLATION ESCROW FUNDS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.76.8"></a><var>76.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Petroleum violation escrow funds appropriated to the commissioner of commerce <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.9"></a><var>76.9</var>by  Laws 1988, chapter 686, article 1, section 38, for state energy loan programs for <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.10"></a><var>76.10</var>schools,  hospitals, and public buildings must be used for grants to kindergarten through <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.11"></a><var>76.11</var>grade 12 schools to develop energy conservation or renewable energy projects. A grant <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.12"></a><var>76.12</var>may not exceed $500,000. The commissioner must endeavor to award grants throughout <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.13"></a><var>76.13</var>the regions of the state. No more than one grant may be awarded in a county, unless an <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.14"></a><var>76.14</var>insufficient number of applications is received from schools located in other counties to <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.15"></a><var>76.15</var>exhaust available funds.<br />
         		<a id="pl.76.16"></a><var>76.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The commissioner of commerce must petition the federal Department of Energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.17"></a><var>76.17</var>for a waiver from any federal regulation that limits the proportion of federal funds <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.18"></a><var>76.18</var>expended on state energy programs that may be spent on energy efficiency.<br />
         		<a id="pl.76.19"></a><var>76.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) For purposes of this subdivision, "renewable energy" means wind, solar, <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.20"></a><var>76.20</var>hydroelectric with a capacity of less than 60 megawatts, geothermal, hydrogen, fuel cells <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.21"></a><var>76.21</var>made from renewable resources, herbaceous crops, agricultural crops, agricultural waste, <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.22"></a><var>76.22</var>and aquatic plant matter.<br />
         		<a id="pl.76.23"></a><var>76.23</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day after the commissioner of <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.24"></a><var>76.24</var>commerce receives the waiver described in paragraph (b).<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.18.0"></a><a id="pl.76.25"></a><var>76.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 18. <b>RURAL WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.76.26"></a><var>76.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The Center for Rural Policy and Development shall make a grant to a nonprofit <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.27"></a><var>76.27</var>organization with experience dealing with energy and community wind issues to design <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.28"></a><var>76.28</var>and implement a rural wind energy development assistance program. The program must <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.29"></a><var>76.29</var>be designed to maximize rural economic development and stabilize rural community <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.30"></a><var>76.30</var>institutions, including hospitals and schools, by increasing the income of local residents <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.31"></a><var>76.31</var>and increasing local tax revenues. The grant may be disbursed in two installments. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.32"></a><var>76.32</var>program must provide assistance to rural entities seeking to develop wind generation <br />
         		<a id="pl.76.33"></a><var>76.33</var>projects that meet the specifications of Minnesota Statutes, section 216B.1612, subdivision <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.1"></a><var>77.1</var>2, paragraph (f), and to sell the electricity the projects produce. Among other strategies, <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.2"></a><var>77.2</var>the program may consider aggregating rural entities and others into groups with the size <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.3"></a><var>77.3</var>and market power necessary to plan and develop significant rural wind energy projects.<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.4"></a><var>77.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The program must provide assistance that includes, but is not limited to:<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.5"></a><var>77.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) providing legal, engineering, and financial services;<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.6"></a><var>77.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) identifying target communities with favorable wind resources, community <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.7"></a><var>77.7</var>interest, and local political support;<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.8"></a><var>77.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) providing assistance to reserve, obtain, and ensure the maintenance over time of <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.9"></a><var>77.9</var>wind turbines;<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.10"></a><var>77.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) creating market opportunities for utilities to meet their renewable energy standard <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.11"></a><var>77.11</var>obligations through purchases from rural community wind projects;<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.12"></a><var>77.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) assisting in negotiating fair power purchase agreements;<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.13"></a><var>77.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) facilitating transmission interconnection and delivery of energy from community <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.14"></a><var>77.14</var>wind projects; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.15"></a><var>77.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) lowering the market risk facing potential wind investors by supporting all phases <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.16"></a><var>77.16</var>of project development.<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.17"></a><var>77.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The grantee must demonstrate an ability to sustain program functions with ongoing <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.18"></a><var>77.18</var>revenue from sources other than state funding and shall provide a 35 percent grant match. <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.19"></a><var>77.19</var>The grant must be awarded on a competitive basis. The center must use best practices <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.20"></a><var>77.20</var>regarding grant management functions, including selection and monitoring of the grantee, <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.21"></a><var>77.21</var>compliance review, and financial oversight. Grant management fees are limited to 2.5 <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.22"></a><var>77.22</var>percent of the grant.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.19.0"></a><a id="pl.77.23"></a><var>77.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 19. <b>UNIFORM CODES AND STANDARDS FOR HYDROGEN, FUEL </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.77.24"></a><var>77.24</var><b>CELLS, AND RELATED TECHNOLOGIES; RECOMMENDATIONS AND </b><br />
         		<a id="pl.77.25"></a><var>77.25</var><b>REPORT.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.77.26"></a><var>77.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) The commissioner of labor and industry, in consultation with the Department of <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.27"></a><var>77.27</var>Commerce and other relevant public and private interests, shall develop recommendations <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.28"></a><var>77.28</var>regarding the adoption of uniform codes and standards for hydrogen infrastructure, fuel <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.29"></a><var>77.29</var>cells, and related technologies, and report those recommendations to the legislature by <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.30"></a><var>77.30</var>December 31, 2008.<br />
         		<a id="pl.77.31"></a><var>77.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The goal of the recommendations is to have all regulatory jurisdictions in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.32"></a><var>77.32</var>state have the same safety standards with regard to the production, storage, transportation, <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.33"></a><var>77.33</var>distribution, and use of hydrogen, fuel cells, and related technologies. The commissioner's <br />
         		<a id="pl.77.34"></a><var>77.34</var>recommendations must, without limitation, include:<br />
         		<a id="pl.78.1"></a><var>78.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) codes and standards that already exist for hydrogen, fuel cells, and related <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.2"></a><var>78.2</var>technologies, and how the state should formalize their use;<br />
         		<a id="pl.78.3"></a><var>78.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) codes and standards still under development by various official standard-making <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.4"></a><var>78.4</var>bodies;<br />
         		<a id="pl.78.5"></a><var>78.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) gaps between existing codes and standards, those under development, and those <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.6"></a><var>78.6</var>that may still be needed but are not yet being developed;<br />
         		<a id="pl.78.7"></a><var>78.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the need for, and estimated cost of, additional education and training for <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.8"></a><var>78.8</var>emergency management and code officials;<br />
         		<a id="pl.78.9"></a><var>78.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) any changes needed to environmental and other permitting processes to <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.10"></a><var>78.10</var>accommodate the commercialization of hydrogen, fuel cells, and related technologies; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.78.11"></a><var>78.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) recommendations on appropriate codes and standards for educational and <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.12"></a><var>78.12</var>research institutions.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.20.0"></a><a id="pl.78.13"></a><var>78.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 20. <b>HYDROGEN REFUELING STATION GRANTS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.78.14"></a><var>78.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to the purposes specified in Laws 2005, chapter 97, article 13, section <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.15"></a><var>78.15</var>4, for which the commissioner of commerce may make grants, the commissioner may <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.16"></a><var>78.16</var>make grants under that law for the purpose of developing, deploying, and encouraging <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.17"></a><var>78.17</var>commercially promising renewable hydrogen production systems and hydrogen end <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.18"></a><var>78.18</var>uses in partnership with industry. The authority of the commissioner to make grants <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.19"></a><var>78.19</var>and assessments under Laws 2005, chapter 97, article 13, section 4, continues until the <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.20"></a><var>78.20</var>authorized grants and assessments are made.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.3.21.0"></a><a id="pl.78.21"></a><var>78.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 21. <b>OFF-SITE RENEWABLE DISTRIBUTED GENERATION.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.78.22"></a><var>78.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The commissioner of commerce shall convene a broad group of interested <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.23"></a><var>78.23</var>stakeholders to evaluate the feasibility and potential for the interconnection and parallel <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.24"></a><var>78.24</var>operation of off-site renewable distributed generation in a manner consistent with <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.25"></a><var>78.25</var>Minnesota Statutes, sections 216B.37 to 216B.43, and shall issue recommendations to <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.26"></a><var>78.26</var>the chairs of the house of representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.27"></a><var>78.27</var>energy issues by February 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.4.0.0"></a><div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.78.28"></a><var>78.28</var><b>ARTICLE 4</b><br />
            		
         </div>
         <div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.78.29"></a><var>78.29</var><b>ENVIRONMENT</b><br />
            		
         </div><br />
         		<a id="bill.4.1.0"></a><a id="pl.78.30"></a><var>78.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Section 1. <b>BIOFUEL PERMITTING REPORT.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.78.31"></a><var>78.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By January 15, 2008, the Pollution Control Agency, the commissioner of natural <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.32"></a><var>78.32</var>resources, and the Environmental Quality Board shall report to the house of representatives <br />
         		<a id="pl.78.33"></a><var>78.33</var>and senate committees and divisions with jurisdiction over agriculture and environment <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.1"></a><var>79.1</var>policy and budget on the process to issue permits for biofuel production facilities. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.2"></a><var>79.2</var>report shall include:<br />
         		<a id="pl.79.3"></a><var>79.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) information on the timing of the permits and measures taken to improve the <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.4"></a><var>79.4</var>timing of the permitting process;<br />
         		<a id="pl.79.5"></a><var>79.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) recommended changes to statutes, rules, or procedures to improve the biofuel <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.6"></a><var>79.6</var>facility permitting process and reduce the groundwater needed for production; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.79.7"></a><var>79.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) other information or analysis that may be helpful in understanding or improving <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.8"></a><var>79.8</var>the biofuel production facility permitting process.<br />
         		<a id="pl.79.9"></a><var>79.9</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.4.2.0"></a><a id="pl.79.10"></a><var>79.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 2. <b>DEFINITIONS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.79.11"></a><var>79.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Terrestrial carbon sequestration.</b> "Terrestrial carbon sequestration" <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.12"></a><var>79.12</var>means the long-term storage of carbon in soil and vegetation to prevent its collection in <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.13"></a><var>79.13</var>the atmosphere as carbon dioxide.<br />
         		<a id="pl.79.14"></a><var>79.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Geologic carbon sequestration.</b> "Geologic carbon sequestration" means <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.15"></a><var>79.15</var>injecting carbon dioxide into underground geologic formations where it can be stored for <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.16"></a><var>79.16</var>long periods of time to prevent its escape to the atmosphere.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.4.3.0"></a><a id="pl.79.17"></a><var>79.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 3. <b>TERRESTRIAL CARBON SEQUESTRATION ACTIVITIES.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.79.18"></a><var>79.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Study; scope.</b> The Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.19"></a><var>79.19</var>is requested to conduct a study assessing the potential capacity for carbon sequestration in <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.20"></a><var>79.20</var>Minnesota's terrestrial systems. The study must: <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.21"></a><var>79.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) conduct a statewide inventory and construct a database of lands across several <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.22"></a><var>79.22</var>land types, such as forests, agricultural lands, peatlands, and wetlands, that have the <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.23"></a><var>79.23</var>potential to sequester significant quantities of carbon and of lands that currently contain <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.24"></a><var>79.24</var>large stocks of carbon that are at risk of being emitted to the atmosphere as a result of <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.25"></a><var>79.25</var>changes in land use and climate; <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.26"></a><var>79.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) quantify the ability of various land use practices, such as the growth of different <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.27"></a><var>79.27</var>species of crops, grasses, and trees, to sequester carbon and their impacts on other <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.28"></a><var>79.28</var>ecological services of value, including air and water quality, biodiversity, and wildlife <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.29"></a><var>79.29</var>habitat; <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.30"></a><var>79.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) identify a network of benchmark monitoring sites to measure the impact of <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.31"></a><var>79.31</var>long-term, large-scale factors, such as changes in climate, carbon dioxide levels, and land <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.32"></a><var>79.32</var>use, on the terrestrial carbon sequestration capacity of various land types, to improve <br />
         		<a id="pl.79.33"></a><var>79.33</var>understanding of carbon-terrestrial interactions and dynamics; <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.1"></a><var>80.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) identify long-term demonstration projects to measure the impact of deliberate <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.2"></a><var>80.2</var>sequestration practices, including the establishment of biofuel production systems, on <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.3"></a><var>80.3</var>forest, agricultural, wetland, and prairie ecosystems; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.4"></a><var>80.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) evaluate current state policies and programs that affect the levels of terrestrial <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.5"></a><var>80.5</var>sequestration on public and private lands and identify gaps and recommend policy changes <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.6"></a><var>80.6</var>to increase sequestration rates.<br />
         		<a id="pl.80.7"></a><var>80.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Coordination of terrestrial carbon sequestration activities.</b> Planning <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.8"></a><var>80.8</var>and implementation of the study described in subdivision 1 will be coordinated by <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.9"></a><var>80.9</var>the Minnesota Terrestrial Carbon Sequestration Initiative, a task force consisting of <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.10"></a><var>80.10</var>representatives from the University of Minnesota, the Department of Agriculture, the <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.11"></a><var>80.11</var>Board of Water and Soil Resources, the Department of Commerce, the Department <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.12"></a><var>80.12</var>of Natural Resources, and the Pollution Control Agency and agricultural, forestry, <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.13"></a><var>80.13</var>conservation, and business stakeholders. <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.14"></a><var>80.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Contracting.</b> The University of Minnesota may contract with another <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.15"></a><var>80.15</var>party to perform any of the tasks listed in subdivision 1.<br />
         		<a id="pl.80.16"></a><var>80.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Report.</b> The commissioner of natural resources must submit a report <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.17"></a><var>80.17</var>with the results of the study to the senate and house of representatives committees with <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.18"></a><var>80.18</var>jurisdiction over environmental and energy policies no later than February 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.4.4.0"></a><a id="pl.80.19"></a><var>80.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 4. <b>GEOLOGIC CARBON SEQUESTRATION ASSESSMENT.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.80.20"></a><var>80.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Study; scope.</b> (a) The Minnesota Geological Survey shall conduct <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.21"></a><var>80.21</var>a study assessing the potential capacity for geologic carbon sequestration in the <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.22"></a><var>80.22</var>Midcontinent Rift system in Minnesota. The study must assess the potential of porous <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.23"></a><var>80.23</var>and permeable sandstone layers deeper than one kilometer below the surface that are <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.24"></a><var>80.24</var>capped by less permeable shale and must identify potential risks to carbon storage, such <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.25"></a><var>80.25</var>as areas of low permeability in injection zones, low storage capacity, and potential seal <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.26"></a><var>80.26</var>failure. The study must identify the most promising formations and geographic areas for <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.27"></a><var>80.27</var>physical analysis of carbon sequestration potential. The study must review geologic <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.28"></a><var>80.28</var>maps, published reports and surveys, and any relevant unpublished raw data with respect <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.29"></a><var>80.29</var>to attributes that are pertinent for the long-term sequestration of carbon in geologic <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.30"></a><var>80.30</var>formations, in particular, those that bear on formation injectivity, capacity, and seal <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.31"></a><var>80.31</var>effectiveness. The study must examine the following characteristics of key sedimentary <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.32"></a><var>80.32</var>units within the Midcontinent Rift system in Minnesota:<br />
         		<a id="pl.80.33"></a><var>80.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) likely depth, temperature, and pressure; <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.34"></a><var>80.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) physical properties, including the ability to contain and transmit fluids; <br />
         		<a id="pl.80.35"></a><var>80.35</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the type of rocks present; <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.1"></a><var>81.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) structure and geometry, including folds and faults; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.2"></a><var>81.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) hydrogeology, including water chemistry and water flow.<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.3"></a><var>81.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The commissioner of natural resources, in consultation with the Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.4"></a><var>81.4</var>Geological Survey, shall contract for a study to estimate the properties of the Midcontinent <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.5"></a><var>81.5</var>Rift system in Minnesota, as described in paragraph (a), clauses (1) to (5), through the <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.6"></a><var>81.6</var>use of computer models developed for similar geologic formations located outside of <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.7"></a><var>81.7</var>Minnesota which have been studied in greater detail.<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.8"></a><var>81.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Consultation.</b> The Minnesota Geological Survey shall consult with the <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.9"></a><var>81.9</var>Minnesota Mineral Coordinating Committee, established in Minnesota Statutes, section <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.10"></a><var>81.10</var>93.0015, in planning and implementing the study design.<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.11"></a><var>81.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Report.</b> The commissioner of natural resources must submit a report <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.12"></a><var>81.12</var>with the results of the study to the senate and house of representatives committees with <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.13"></a><var>81.13</var>jurisdiction over environmental and energy policies no later than February 1, 2008.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.4.5.0"></a><a id="pl.81.14"></a><var>81.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 5. <b>STAY EXTENDED; DRY CASK STORAGE AT MONTICELLO.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.81.15"></a><var>81.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The stay of a Public Utilities Commission decision to approve an application for <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.16"></a><var>81.16</var>a certificate of need for additional dry cask storage at the Monticello nuclear power <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.17"></a><var>81.17</var>generating facility, imposed under Minnesota Statutes, section 116C.83, subdivision 3, <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.18"></a><var>81.18</var>is extended until June 1, 2008.<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.19"></a><var>81.19</var><b>EFFECTIVE DATE.</b>This section is effective the day following final enactment.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.0.0"></a><div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.81.20"></a><var>81.20</var><b>ARTICLE 5</b><br />
            		
         </div>
         <div class="xtend_ce"><a id="pl.81.21"></a><var>81.21</var><b>HEATING ASSISTANCE AND UTILITIES</b><br />
            		
         </div><br />
         		<a id="bill.5.1.0"></a><a id="pl.81.22"></a><var>81.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Section 1. <b>[216B.091] MONTHLY REPORTS.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.81.23"></a><var>81.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) Each public utility must report the following data on residential customers to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.24"></a><var>81.24</var>commission monthly, in a format determined by the commission:<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.25"></a><var>81.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) number of customers;<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.26"></a><var>81.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) number and total amount of accounts past due;<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.27"></a><var>81.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) average customer past due amount;<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.28"></a><var>81.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) total revenue received from the low-income home energy assistance program and <br />
         		<a id="pl.81.29"></a><var>81.29</var>other sources contributing to the bills of low-income persons;<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.30"></a><var>81.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) average monthly bill;<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.31"></a><var>81.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) total sales revenue;<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.32"></a><var>81.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) total write-offs due to uncollectible bills;<br />
         		<a id="pl.81.33"></a><var>81.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) number of disconnection notices mailed;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.1"></a><var>82.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) number of accounts disconnected for nonpayment;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.2"></a><var>82.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10) number of accounts reconnected to service; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.3"></a><var>82.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(11) number of accounts that remain disconnected, grouped by the duration of <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.4"></a><var>82.4</var>disconnection, as follows:  <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.5"></a><var>82.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) 1-30 days; <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.6"></a><var>82.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) 31-60 days; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.7"></a><var>82.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) more than 60 days.<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.8"></a><var>82.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Monthly reports for October through April must also include the following data:<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.9"></a><var>82.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) number of cold weather protection requests;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.10"></a><var>82.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) number of payment arrangement requests received and granted;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.11"></a><var>82.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) number of right to appeal notices mailed to customers;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.12"></a><var>82.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) number of reconnect request appeals withdrawn;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.13"></a><var>82.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) number of occupied heat-affected accounts disconnected for 24 hours or more <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.14"></a><var>82.14</var>for electric and natural gas service separately;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.15"></a><var>82.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) number of occupied non-heat-affected accounts disconnected for 24 hours or <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.16"></a><var>82.16</var>more for electric and gas service separately;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.17"></a><var>82.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) number of customers granted cold weather rule protection;<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.18"></a><var>82.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) number of customers disconnected who did not request cold weather rule <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.19"></a><var>82.19</var>protection; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.20"></a><var>82.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) number of customers disconnected who requested cold weather rule protection.<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.21"></a><var>82.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The data reported under paragraphs (a) and (b) is presumed to be accurate upon <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.22"></a><var>82.22</var>submission and must be made available through the commission's electronic filing system.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.2.0"></a><a id="pl.82.23"></a><var>82.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 2. <b>[216B.0951] PROPANE PREPURCHASE PROGRAM.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.82.24"></a><var>82.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Establishment.</b> The commissioner of commerce shall operate, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.25"></a><var>82.25</var>contract to operate, a propane fuel prepurchase fuel program. The commissioner may <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.26"></a><var>82.26</var>contract at any time of the year to purchase the lesser of one-third of the liquid propane <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.27"></a><var>82.27</var>fuel consumed by low-income home energy assistance program recipients during the <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.28"></a><var>82.28</var>previous heating season or the amount that can be purchased with available funds. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.29"></a><var>82.29</var>propane fuel prepurchase program must be available statewide through each local agency <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.30"></a><var>82.30</var>that administers the energy assistance program. The commissioner may decide to limit or <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.31"></a><var>82.31</var>not engage in prepurchasing if the commissioner finds that there is a reasonable likelihood <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.32"></a><var>82.32</var>that prepurchasing will not provide fuel-cost savings.<br />
         		<a id="pl.82.33"></a><var>82.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Hedge account.</b> The commissioner may establish a hedge account with <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.34"></a><var>82.34</var>realized program savings due to prepurchasing. The account must be used to compensate <br />
         		<a id="pl.82.35"></a><var>82.35</var>program recipients an amount up to the difference in cost for fuel provided to the recipient <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.1"></a><var>83.1</var>if winter-delivered fuel prices are lower than the prepurchase or summer-fill price. No <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.2"></a><var>83.2</var>more than ten percent of the aggregate prepurchase program savings may be used to <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.3"></a><var>83.3</var>establish the hedge account.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.4"></a><var>83.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Report.</b> The Department of Commerce shall issue a report by June 30, <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.5"></a><var>83.5</var>2008, made available electronically on its Web site and in print upon request, that contains <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.6"></a><var>83.6</var>the following information:<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.7"></a><var>83.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the cost per gallon of prepurchased fuel;<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.8"></a><var>83.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the total gallons of fuel prepurchased;<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.9"></a><var>83.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the average cost of propane each month between October and the following April;<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.10"></a><var>83.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the number of energy assistance program households receiving prepurchased <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.11"></a><var>83.11</var>fuel; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.12"></a><var>83.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) the average savings accruing or benefit increase provided to energy assistance <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.13"></a><var>83.13</var>households.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.3.0"></a><a id="pl.83.14"></a><var>83.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 3. <b>[216B.096] COLD WEATHER RULE; PUBLIC UTILITIES.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.83.15"></a><var>83.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Scope.</b>  This section applies only to residential customers of a <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.16"></a><var>83.16</var>public utility.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.17"></a><var>83.17</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Definitions.</b> (a) The terms used in this section have the meanings given <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.18"></a><var>83.18</var>them in this subdivision.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.19"></a><var>83.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) "Cold weather period" means the period from October 15 through April 15 of <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.20"></a><var>83.20</var>the following year.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.21"></a><var>83.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) "Customer" means a residential customer of a utility.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.22"></a><var>83.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) "Customer's income" means the actual monthly income of the customer or the <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.23"></a><var>83.23</var>average monthly income of the customer computed on a calendar year basis, whichever is <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.24"></a><var>83.24</var>less, and does not include any amount received for energy assistance.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.25"></a><var>83.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) "Disconnection" means the involuntary loss of utility heating service as a result <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.26"></a><var>83.26</var>of a physical act by a utility to discontinue service. Disconnection includes installation of <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.27"></a><var>83.27</var>a service or load limiter or any device that limits or interrupts utility service in any way.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.28"></a><var>83.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) "Household income" means the combined income, as defined in section 290A.03, <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.29"></a><var>83.29</var>subdivision 3, of all residents of the customer's household, computed on an annual basis. <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.30"></a><var>83.30</var>Household income does not include any amount received for energy assistance.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.31"></a><var>83.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) "Reasonably timely payment" means payment within seven calendar days of <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.32"></a><var>83.32</var>agreed-upon due dates.<br />
         		<a id="pl.83.33"></a><var>83.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) "Reconnection" means the restoration of utility heating service after it has been <br />
         		<a id="pl.83.34"></a><var>83.34</var>disconnected.<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.1"></a><var>84.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) "Third party notice"  means a commission-approved notice containing, at a <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.2"></a><var>84.2</var>minimum, the following information:<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.3"></a><var>84.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) a statement that the utility will send a copy of any future notice of proposed <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.4"></a><var>84.4</var>disconnection of utility heating service to a third party designated by the residential <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.5"></a><var>84.5</var>customer;<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.6"></a><var>84.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) instructions on how to request this service; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.7"></a><var>84.7</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) a statement that the residential customer should contact the person the customer <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.8"></a><var>84.8</var>intends to designate as the third party contact before providing the utility with the party's <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.9"></a><var>84.9</var>name.<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.10"></a><var>84.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) "Utility" means a public utility as defined in section 216B.02.<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.11"></a><var>84.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) "Utility heating service" means natural gas or electricity used as a  primary <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.12"></a><var>84.12</var>heating source, including electricity service necessary to operate gas heating equipment.<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.13"></a><var>84.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(l) "Working days" means Mondays through Fridays, excluding legal holidays.<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.14"></a><var>84.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Utility obligations before cold weather period.</b> (a) Each year, between <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.15"></a><var>84.15</var>September 1 and October 15, each utility must notify all customers of the provisions of <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.16"></a><var>84.16</var>this section. Notice must also be provided to all new residential customers when service is <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.17"></a><var>84.17</var>initiated. Notice must, at a minimum, include:<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.18"></a><var>84.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) an explanation of the customer's rights and responsibilities under subdivision 5;<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.19"></a><var>84.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) an explanation of no-cost and low-cost methods to reduce the consumption <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.20"></a><var>84.20</var>of energy; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.21"></a><var>84.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) a third party notice.<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.22"></a><var>84.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Also, each year, between September 1 and October 15, each utility must attempt <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.23"></a><var>84.23</var>to contact, establish a payment agreement, and reconnect utility heating service to all <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.24"></a><var>84.24</var>customers who were disconnected after the preceding heating season. A record must be <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.25"></a><var>84.25</var>made of all contacts and attempted contacts.<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.26"></a><var>84.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Notice before disconnection during cold weather period.</b> Before <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.27"></a><var>84.27</var>disconnecting utility heating service during the cold weather period, a utility must provide <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.28"></a><var>84.28</var>notice to a customer, in easy-to-understand language, that contains the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.29"></a><var>84.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the date of the scheduled disconnection;<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.30"></a><var>84.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the amount due;<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.31"></a><var>84.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) ways to avoid disconnection;<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.32"></a><var>84.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) information regarding payment agreements;<br />
         		<a id="pl.84.33"></a><var>84.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) a statement explaining the customer's rights and responsibilities, including the <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.34"></a><var>84.34</var>right to appeal a determination by the utility that the customer is not eligible for protection <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.35"></a><var>84.35</var>and the right to request commission intervention if the utility and customer cannot arrive <br />
         		<a id="pl.84.36"></a><var>84.36</var>at a mutually acceptable payment agreement;<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.1"></a><var>85.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) a list of local energy assistance and weatherization providers in each county <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.2"></a><var>85.2</var>served by the utility; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.3"></a><var>85.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) a third party notice.<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.4"></a><var>85.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 5. <b>Cold weather rule.</b> (a) During the cold weather period, a utility may <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.5"></a><var>85.5</var>not disconnect and must reconnect a customer whose household income is at or below <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.6"></a><var>85.6</var>50 percent of the state median income if the customer enters into and makes reasonably <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.7"></a><var>85.7</var>timely payments under a mutually acceptable payment agreement with the utility that is <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.8"></a><var>85.8</var>based on the financial resources and circumstances of the household; provided that, a <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.9"></a><var>85.9</var>utility may not require a customer to pay  more than ten percent of the customer's income <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.10"></a><var>85.10</var>toward current and past utility bills for utility heating service. <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.11"></a><var>85.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A utility may accept more than ten percent of the household income as the <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.12"></a><var>85.12</var>payment arrangement amount if agreed to by the customer.<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.13"></a><var>85.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The customer or a designated third party may request a modification of the terms <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.14"></a><var>85.14</var>of a payment agreement previously entered into if the customer's financial circumstances <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.15"></a><var>85.15</var>have changed or the customer is unable to make reasonably timely payments. The utility <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.16"></a><var>85.16</var>may refer to commission staff a customer who requests more than two modifications of a <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.17"></a><var>85.17</var>payment agreement during a single cold weather rule period if no payments have been <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.18"></a><var>85.18</var>made.<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.19"></a><var>85.19</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) The payment agreement terminates at the expiration of the cold weather period <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.20"></a><var>85.20</var>unless a longer period is mutually agreed to by the customer and the utility.<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.21"></a><var>85.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 6. <b>Verification of income.</b> (a) In verifying a customer's household income, <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.22"></a><var>85.22</var>a utility may:<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.23"></a><var>85.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) accept the signed statement of a customer that the customer is income eligible;<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.24"></a><var>85.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) obtain income verification from a local energy assistance provider or a <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.25"></a><var>85.25</var>government agency;<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.26"></a><var>85.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) consider one or more of the following:<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.27"></a><var>85.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) the most recent income tax return filed by members of the customer's household;<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.28"></a><var>85.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(ii) for each employed member of the customer's household, paycheck stubs for the <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.29"></a><var>85.29</var>last two months or a written statement from the employer reporting wages earned during <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.30"></a><var>85.30</var>the preceding two months;<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.31"></a><var>85.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iii) a customer's Medicaid card, documentation that the customer receives food <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.32"></a><var>85.32</var>stamps, or a food support eligibility document;<br />
         		<a id="pl.85.33"></a><var>85.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(iv) documentation that the customer receives a pension from the Department of <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.34"></a><var>85.34</var>Human Services, the Social Security Administration, the Veteran's Administration, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.85.35"></a><var>85.35</var>other pension provider;<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.1"></a><var>86.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(v) a letter showing the customer's dismissal from a job or other documentation of <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.2"></a><var>86.2</var>unemployment; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.3"></a><var>86.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(vi) other documentation that supports the customer's declaration of income <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.4"></a><var>86.4</var>eligibility.<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.5"></a><var>86.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A customer who receives energy assistance benefits under any federal, state, <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.6"></a><var>86.6</var>or county government programs in which eligibility is defined as household income at <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.7"></a><var>86.7</var>or below 50 percent of state median income is deemed to be automatically eligible for <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.8"></a><var>86.8</var>protection under this section and no other verification of income may be required.<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.9"></a><var>86.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 7. <b>Prohibitions and requirements.</b> During the cold weather period:<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.10"></a><var>86.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) A utility may not charge a deposit or delinquency charge to a customer who has <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.11"></a><var>86.11</var>entered into a payment agreement or a customer who has appealed to the commission <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.12"></a><var>86.12</var>under subdivision 8.<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.13"></a><var>86.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A utility may not disconnect service during the following periods:<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.14"></a><var>86.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) during the pendency of any appeal under subdivision 8;<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.15"></a><var>86.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) earlier than ten working days after a utility has deposited in first class mail, <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.16"></a><var>86.16</var>or seven working days after a utility has personally served, the notice required under <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.17"></a><var>86.17</var>subdivision 4 to a customer in an occupied dwelling;<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.18"></a><var>86.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) earlier than ten working days after the utility has deposited in first class mail <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.19"></a><var>86.19</var>the notice required under subdivision 4 to the recorded billing address of the customer, <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.20"></a><var>86.20</var>if the utility has reasonably determined from an on-site inspection that the dwelling <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.21"></a><var>86.21</var>is unoccupied;<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.22"></a><var>86.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) on a Friday, unless the utility makes personal contact with, and offers a payment <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.23"></a><var>86.23</var>agreement to, the customer;<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.24"></a><var>86.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) on a Saturday, Sunday, holiday, or the day before a holiday;<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.25"></a><var>86.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) when utility offices are closed;<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.26"></a><var>86.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) when no utility personnel are available to resolve disputes, enter into payment <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.27"></a><var>86.27</var>agreements, accept payments, and reconnect service; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.28"></a><var>86.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) when commission offices are closed.<br />
         		<a id="pl.86.29"></a><var>86.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) Also, a utility may not discontinue service until the utility investigates whether <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.30"></a><var>86.30</var>the dwelling is actually occupied. At a minimum, the investigation must include one visit <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.31"></a><var>86.31</var>by the utility to the dwelling during normal working hours. If no contact is made and <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.32"></a><var>86.32</var>there is reason to believe that the dwelling is occupied, the utility must attempt a second <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.33"></a><var>86.33</var>contact during nonbusiness hours. If personal contact is made, the utility representative <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.34"></a><var>86.34</var>must provide notice required under subdivision 4 and, if the utility representative is not <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.35"></a><var>86.35</var>authorized to enter into a payment agreement, the telephone number the customer can call <br />
         		<a id="pl.86.36"></a><var>86.36</var>to establish a payment agreement.<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.1"></a><var>87.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Each utility must reconnect utility service if, following disconnection, the <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.2"></a><var>87.2</var>dwelling is found to be occupied and the customer agrees to enter into a payment <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.3"></a><var>87.3</var>agreement or appeals to the commission because the customer and the utility are unable to <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.4"></a><var>87.4</var>agree on a payment agreement.<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.5"></a><var>87.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 8. <b>Disputes; customer appeals.</b> (a) A utility must provide the customer <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.6"></a><var>87.6</var>and any designated third party with a commission-approved written notice of the right <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.7"></a><var>87.7</var>to appeal:<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.8"></a><var>87.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) upon a utility determination that the customer's household income is more than <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.9"></a><var>87.9</var>50 percent of state median household income; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.10"></a><var>87.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) when the utility and customer are unable to agree on the establishment or <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.11"></a><var>87.11</var>modification of a payment agreement.<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.12"></a><var>87.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A customer's appeal must be filed with the commission no later than seven <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.13"></a><var>87.13</var>working days after the customer's receipt of a personally served disconnection notice, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.14"></a><var>87.14</var>within ten working days after the utility has deposited a first class mail notice. If no <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.15"></a><var>87.15</var>disconnection notice has been issued, an appeal may be filed at any time.<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.16"></a><var>87.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The commission must determine all customer appeals on an informal basis, <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.17"></a><var>87.17</var>within 30 calendar days of receipt of a customer's written appeal. In making its <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.18"></a><var>87.18</var>determination, the commission must consider one or more of the factors in subdivision 6, <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.19"></a><var>87.19</var>paragraph (a), clauses (2) and (3).<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.20"></a><var>87.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Notwithstanding any other law, following an appeals decision adverse to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.21"></a><var>87.21</var>customer, a utility may not disconnect utility heating service for seven working days <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.22"></a><var>87.22</var>after the utility has personally served a disconnection notice, or for ten working days <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.23"></a><var>87.23</var>after the utility has deposited a first class mail notice. The notice must contain, in <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.24"></a><var>87.24</var>easy-to-understand language, the date on or after which disconnection will occur, the <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.25"></a><var>87.25</var>reason for disconnection, and ways to avoid disconnection.<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.26"></a><var>87.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 9. <b>Utility appeals.</b> A utility may file an appeal of the commission's informal <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.27"></a><var>87.27</var>determination under subdivision 8 within 14 working days after it is issued. An appeal <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.28"></a><var>87.28</var>must be in writing, on forms prescribed by the commission. A copy of the appeal and a <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.29"></a><var>87.29</var>commission-approved letter explaining that the customer may have service disconnected <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.30"></a><var>87.30</var>must be mailed by the utility to the local human services or social services agency and <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.31"></a><var>87.31</var>the local energy assistance provider on the same day as the utility mails its appeal to <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.32"></a><var>87.32</var>the commission.<br />
         		<a id="pl.87.33"></a><var>87.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 10. <b>Reporting.</b> Annually on November 1, a utility must file with the <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.34"></a><var>87.34</var>commission a report specifying the number of utility heating service customers whose <br />
         		<a id="pl.87.35"></a><var>87.35</var>service is disconnected or remains disconnected as of October 1 and October 15. If <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.1"></a><var>88.1</var>customers remain disconnected on October 15, a utility must file a report each week <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.2"></a><var>88.2</var>between November 1 and the end of the cold weather period specifying:<br />
         		<a id="pl.88.3"></a><var>88.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the number of utility heating service customers that are or remain disconnected <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.4"></a><var>88.4</var>from service; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.88.5"></a><var>88.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the number of utility heating service customers that are reconnected to service <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.6"></a><var>88.6</var>each week. The utility may discontinue weekly reporting if the number of utility heating <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.7"></a><var>88.7</var>service customers that are or remain disconnected reaches zero before the end of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.8"></a><var>88.8</var>cold weather period.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.4.0"></a><a id="pl.88.9"></a><var>88.9</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.097, subdivision 1, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.88.10"></a><var>88.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Application; notice to residential customer.</b> (a) A municipal utility <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.11"></a><var>88.11</var>or a cooperative electric association must not disconnect and must reconnect the utility <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.12"></a><var>88.12</var>service of a residential customer during the period between October 15 and April 15 if <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.13"></a><var>88.13</var>the disconnection affects the primary heat source for the residential unit ~~when~~ and all of <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.14"></a><var>88.14</var>the following conditions are met:<br />
         		<a id="pl.88.15"></a><var>88.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) ~~the customer has declared inability to pay on forms provided by the utility. For~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.16"></a><var>88.16</var>~~the purposes of this clause, a customer that is receiving energy assistance is deemed~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.17"></a><var>88.17</var>~~to have demonstrated an inability to pay;~~<br />
         		<a id="pl.88.18"></a><var>88.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(2)~~ The household income of the customer is ~~less than~~ at or below 50 percent of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.19"></a><var>88.19</var>state median household income~~;~~. A municipal utility or cooperative electric association <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.20"></a><var>88.20</var>utility may (i) verify income on forms it provides or (ii) obtain<br />
         		<a id="pl.88.21"></a><var>88.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(3)~~ verification of income ~~may be conducted by~~ from the local energy assistance <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.22"></a><var>88.22</var>provider ~~or the utility, unless the~~. A customer is deemed ~~automatically eligible for~~ to meet <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.23"></a><var>88.23</var>the income requirements of this clause ~~protection against disconnection as a recipient of~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.24"></a><var>88.24</var>if the customer receives  any form of public assistance, including energy assistance, that <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.25"></a><var>88.25</var>uses an income eligibility ~~in an amount~~ threshold set at or below ~~the income eligibility in~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.26"></a><var>88.26</var>~~clause (2);~~ 50 percent of the state median household income.<br />
         		<a id="pl.88.27"></a><var>88.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(4)~~ (2) A customer ~~whose account is current for the billing period immediately prior~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.28"></a><var>88.28</var>~~to October 15 or who, at any time,~~ enters into and makes reasonably timely payments <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.29"></a><var>88.29</var>under a payment ~~schedule~~ agreement that considers the financial resources of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.30"></a><var>88.30</var>household ~~and is reasonably current with payments under the schedule; and~~.<br />
         		<a id="pl.88.31"></a><var>88.31</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;~~(5) the~~ (3) A customer receives referrals to energy assistance ~~programs~~, <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.32"></a><var>88.32</var>weatherization, conservation, or other programs likely to reduce the customer's energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.88.33"></a><var>88.33</var>bills.<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.1"></a><var>89.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) A municipal utility or a cooperative electric association must, between August <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.2"></a><var>89.2</var>15 and October 15 ~~of~~ each year, notify all residential customers of the provisions of this <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.3"></a><var>89.3</var>section.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.5.0"></a><a id="pl.89.4"></a><var>89.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.097, subdivision 3, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.5"></a><var>89.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 3. <b>Restrictions if disconnection necessary.</b> (a) If a residential customer must <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.6"></a><var>89.6</var>be involuntarily disconnected between October 15 and April 15 for failure to comply with <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.7"></a><var>89.7</var>~~the provisions of~~ subdivision 1, the disconnection must not occur:<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.8"></a><var>89.8</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) on a Friday ~~or on the day before a holiday~~, unless the customer declines to enter <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.9"></a><var>89.9</var>into a payment agreement offered that day in person or via personal contact by telephone <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.10"></a><var>89.10</var>by a municipal utility or cooperative electric association;<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.11"></a><var>89.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) on a weekend, holiday, or the day before a holiday;<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.12"></a><var>89.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) when utility offices are closed; or<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.13"></a><var>89.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) after the close of business on a day when disconnection is permitted, unless <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.14"></a><var>89.14</var>a field representative of a municipal utility or cooperative electric association who is <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.15"></a><var>89.15</var>authorized to enter into a payment agreement, accept payment, and continue service, <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.16"></a><var>89.16</var>offers a payment agreement to the customer. <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.17"></a><var>89.17</var>Further, the disconnection must not occur until at least 20 days after the notice required <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.18"></a><var>89.18</var>in subdivision 2 has been mailed to the customer or 15 days after the notice has been <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.19"></a><var>89.19</var>personally delivered to the customer.<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.20"></a><var>89.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) If a customer does not respond to a disconnection notice, the customer must <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.21"></a><var>89.21</var>not be disconnected until the utility investigates whether the residential unit is actually <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.22"></a><var>89.22</var>occupied. If the unit is found to be occupied, the utility must immediately inform the <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.23"></a><var>89.23</var>occupant of the provisions of this section. If the unit is unoccupied, the utility must give <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.24"></a><var>89.24</var>seven days' written notice of the proposed disconnection to the local energy assistance <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.25"></a><var>89.25</var>provider before making a disconnection.<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.26"></a><var>89.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) If, prior to disconnection, a customer appeals a notice of involuntary <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.27"></a><var>89.27</var>disconnection, as provided by the utility's established appeal procedure, the utility must <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.28"></a><var>89.28</var>not disconnect until the appeal is resolved.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.6.0"></a><a id="pl.89.29"></a><var>89.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.098, subdivision 4, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.89.30"></a><var>89.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 4. <b>Undercharges.</b> (a) A utility shall offer a payment agreement to customers <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.31"></a><var>89.31</var>who have been undercharged if no culpable conduct by the customer or resident of <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.32"></a><var>89.32</var>the customer's household caused the undercharge. The agreement must cover a period <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.33"></a><var>89.33</var>equal to the time over which the undercharge occurred or a different time period that is <br />
         		<a id="pl.89.34"></a><var>89.34</var>mutually agreeable to the customer and the utility, except that the duration of a payment <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.1"></a><var>90.1</var>agreement offered by a utility to a customer whose household income is at or below 50 <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.2"></a><var>90.2</var>percent of state median household income must consider the financial circumstances of <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.3"></a><var>90.3</var>the customer's household. <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.4"></a><var>90.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) No interest or delinquency fee may be charged ~~under this~~ as part of an <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.5"></a><var>90.5</var>undercharge agreement under this subdivision.<br />
         		<a id="pl.90.6"></a><var>90.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) If a customer inquiry or complaint results in the utility's discovery of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.7"></a><var>90.7</var>undercharge, the utility may bill for undercharges incurred after the date of the inquiry <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.8"></a><var>90.8</var>or complaint only if the utility began investigating the inquiry or complaint within a <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.9"></a><var>90.9</var>reasonable time after when it was made.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.7.0"></a><a id="pl.90.10"></a><var>90.10</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.16, subdivision 10, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.90.11"></a><var>90.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 10. <b>Intervenor </b>~~<b>payment</b>~~<b> compensation</b><b>.</b> (a) An organization or individual <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.12"></a><var>90.12</var>granted formal intervenor status by the commission is eligible to receive compensation.<br />
         		<a id="pl.90.13"></a><var>90.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) The commission may order a utility to ~~pay all or a portion of a party's intervention~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.14"></a><var>90.14</var> compensate all or part of an eligible intervenor's reasonable costs ~~not to exceed $20,000~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.15"></a><var>90.15</var>~~per intervenor in any proceeding~~ of participation in a general rate case that comes before <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.16"></a><var>90.16</var>the commission  when the commission finds that the intervenor has materially assisted <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.17"></a><var>90.17</var>the commission's deliberation ~~and the intervenor has insufficient financial resources to~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.18"></a><var>90.18</var>~~afford the costs of intervention~~ and when a lack of compensation would present financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.19"></a><var>90.19</var>hardship to the intervenor. Compensation may not exceed $50,000 for a single intervenor <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.20"></a><var>90.20</var>in any proceeding. For the purpose of this subdivision, "materially assisted" means that <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.21"></a><var>90.21</var>the intervenor's participation and presentation was useful and seriously considered, or <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.22"></a><var>90.22</var>otherwise substantially contributed to the commission's deliberations in the proceeding. <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.23"></a><var>90.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) In determining whether an intervenor has materially assisted the commission's <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.24"></a><var>90.24</var>deliberation, the commission must consider, at a minimum, whether: <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.25"></a><var>90.25</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the intervenor represented an interest that would not otherwise have been <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.26"></a><var>90.26</var>adequately represented; <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.27"></a><var>90.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the evidence or arguments presented or the positions taken by the intervenor <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.28"></a><var>90.28</var>were an important factor in producing a fair decision; <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.29"></a><var>90.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the intervenor's position promoted a public purpose or policy; <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.30"></a><var>90.30</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) the evidence presented, arguments made, issues raised, or positions taken by the <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.31"></a><var>90.31</var>intervenor would not have been a part of the record without the intervenor's participation; <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.32"></a><var>90.32</var>and <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.33"></a><var>90.33</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) the administrative law judge or the commission adopted, in whole or in part, a <br />
         		<a id="pl.90.34"></a><var>90.34</var>position advocated by the intervenor. <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.1"></a><var>91.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) In determining whether the absence of compensation would present financial <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.2"></a><var>91.2</var>hardship to the intervenor, the commission must consider: <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.3"></a><var>91.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) whether the costs presented in the intervenor's claim reflect reasonable fees for <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.4"></a><var>91.4</var>attorneys and expert witnesses and other reasonable costs; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.5"></a><var>91.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) the ratio between the costs of intervention and the intervenor's unrestricted funds.<br />
         		<a id="pl.91.6"></a><var>91.6</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e) An intervenor seeking compensation must file a request and an affidavit of service <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.7"></a><var>91.7</var>with the commission, and serve a copy of the request on each party to the proceeding. <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.8"></a><var>91.8</var>The request must be filed 30 days after the later of (1) the expiration of the period within <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.9"></a><var>91.9</var>which a petition for rehearing, amendment, vacation, reconsideration, or reargument must <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.10"></a><var>91.10</var>be filed or (2) the date the commission issues an order following rehearing, amendment, <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.11"></a><var>91.11</var>vacation, reconsideration, or reargument.<br />
         		<a id="pl.91.12"></a><var>91.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(f) The compensation request must include: <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.13"></a><var>91.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) the name and address of the intervenor or representative of the nonprofit <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.14"></a><var>91.14</var>organization the intervenor is representing; <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.15"></a><var>91.15</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) if necessary, proof of the organization's nonprofit, tax-exempt status; <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.16"></a><var>91.16</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) the name and docket number of the proceeding for which compensation is <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.17"></a><var>91.17</var>requested; <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.18"></a><var>91.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) a list of actual annual revenues and expenses of the organization the intervenor is <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.19"></a><var>91.19</var>representing for the preceding year and projected revenues, revenue sources, and expenses <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.20"></a><var>91.20</var>for the current year; <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.21"></a><var>91.21</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) the organization's balance sheet for the preceding year and a current monthly <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.22"></a><var>91.22</var>balance sheet; <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.23"></a><var>91.23</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) an itemization of intervenor costs and the total compensation request; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.91.24"></a><var>91.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) a narrative explaining why additional organizational funds cannot be devoted <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.25"></a><var>91.25</var>to the intervention.<br />
         		<a id="pl.91.26"></a><var>91.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(g) Within 30 days after service of the request for compensation, a party may file <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.27"></a><var>91.27</var>a response, together with an affidavit of service, with the commission. A copy of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.28"></a><var>91.28</var>response must be served on the intervenor and all other parties to the proceeding. <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.29"></a><var>91.29</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(h) Within 15 days after the response is filed, the intervenor may file a reply with <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.30"></a><var>91.30</var>the commission. A copy of the reply and an affidavit of service must be served on all <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.31"></a><var>91.31</var>other parties to the proceeding. <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.32"></a><var>91.32</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(i) If additional costs are incurred as a result of additional proceedings following <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.33"></a><var>91.33</var>the commission's initial order, the intervenor may file an amended request within 30 <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.34"></a><var>91.34</var>days after the commission issues an amended order. Paragraphs (e) to (h) apply to an <br />
         		<a id="pl.91.35"></a><var>91.35</var>amended request. <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.1"></a><var>92.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(j) The commission must issue a decision on intervenor compensation within 60 <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.2"></a><var>92.2</var>days of a filing by an intervenor. <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.3"></a><var>92.3</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(k) A party may request reconsideration of the commission's compensation decision <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.4"></a><var>92.4</var>within 30 days of the decision. <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.5"></a><var>92.5</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(l) If the commission issues an order requiring payment of intervenor compensation, <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.6"></a><var>92.6</var>the utility that was the subject of the proceeding must pay the compensation to the <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.7"></a><var>92.7</var>intervenor, and file with the commission proof of payment, within 30 days after the later <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.8"></a><var>92.8</var>of (1) the expiration of the period within which a petition for reconsideration of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.9"></a><var>92.9</var>commission's compensation decision must be filed or (2) the date the commission issues <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.10"></a><var>92.10</var>an order following reconsideration of its order on intervenor compensation.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.8.0"></a><a id="pl.92.11"></a><var>92.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.16, subdivision 15, is amended to read:<br />
         		<a id="pl.92.12"></a><var>92.12</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 15. <b>Low-income</b><b> affordability</b><b> programs.</b> (a) The commission ~~may~~ must <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.13"></a><var>92.13</var>consider ability to pay as a factor in setting utility rates and may establish affordability <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.14"></a><var>92.14</var>programs for low-income residential ratepayers in order to ensure affordable, reliable, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.15"></a><var>92.15</var>continuous service to low-income utility customers. By September 1, 2007, a public <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.16"></a><var>92.16</var>utility serving low-income residential ratepayers who use natural gas for heating must <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.17"></a><var>92.17</var>file an affordability program with the commission. For purposes of this subdivision, <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.18"></a><var>92.18</var>"low-income residential ratepayers" means ratepayers who receive energy assistance from <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.19"></a><var>92.19</var>the low-income home energy assistance program (LIHEAP).<br />
         		<a id="pl.92.20"></a><var>92.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) ~~The purpose of the low-income programs is to~~ Any affordability program the <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.21"></a><var>92.21</var>commission orders a utility to implement must:<br />
         		<a id="pl.92.22"></a><var>92.22</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) lower the percentage of income that participating low-income households devote <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.23"></a><var>92.23</var>to energy bills~~, to~~;<br />
         		<a id="pl.92.24"></a><var>92.24</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) increase participating customer payments~~, and to~~ over time by increasing the <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.25"></a><var>92.25</var>frequency of payments;<br />
         		<a id="pl.92.26"></a><var>92.26</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) decrease or eliminate participating customer arrears;<br />
         		<a id="pl.92.27"></a><var>92.27</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) lower the utility costs associated with customer account collection activities; and <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.28"></a><var>92.28</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) coordinate the program with other available low-income bill payment assistance <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.29"></a><var>92.29</var>and conservation resources. <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.30"></a><var>92.30</var>In ordering ~~low-income~~ affordability programs, the commission may require public <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.31"></a><var>92.31</var>utilities to file program evaluations~~, including the coordination of other available~~ <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.32"></a><var>92.32</var>~~low-income bill payment and conservation resources and~~ that measure the effect of the <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.33"></a><var>92.33</var>affordability program on:<br />
         		<a id="pl.92.34"></a><var>92.34</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) ~~reducing~~ the percentage of income that participating households devote to energy <br />
         		<a id="pl.92.35"></a><var>92.35</var>bills;<br />
         		<a id="pl.93.1"></a><var>93.1</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) service disconnections; and<br />
         		<a id="pl.93.2"></a><var>93.2</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) frequency of customer ~~payment behavior~~ payments, utility collection costs, <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.3"></a><var>93.3</var>arrearages, and bad debt.<br />
         		<a id="pl.93.4"></a><var>93.4</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) The commission must issue orders necessary to implement, administer, and <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.5"></a><var>93.5</var>evaluate affordability programs, and to allow a utility to recover program costs, including <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.6"></a><var>93.6</var>administrative costs, on a timely basis. The commission may not allow a utility to recover <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.7"></a><var>93.7</var>administrative costs, excluding start-up costs, in excess of five percent of total program <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.8"></a><var>93.8</var>costs, or program evaluation costs in excess of two percent of total program costs. The <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.9"></a><var>93.9</var>commission must permit deferred accounting, with carrying costs, for recovery of program <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.10"></a><var>93.10</var>costs incurred during the period between general rate cases.<br />
         		<a id="pl.93.11"></a><var>93.11</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) Public utilities may use information collected or created for the purpose of <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.12"></a><var>93.12</var>administering energy assistance to administer affordability programs.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.9.0"></a><a id="pl.93.13"></a><var>93.13</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 9. <b>RULES; INSTRUCTION TO COMMISSION AND REVISOR.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.93.14"></a><var>93.14</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subdivision 1. <b>Public Utilities Commission.</b> The commission must amend <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.15"></a><var>93.15</var>Minnesota Rules, chapters 7820 and 7831, to conform with the provisions of Minnesota <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.16"></a><var>93.16</var>Statutes, section 216B.096, as authorized under Minnesota Statutes, section 14.388, <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.17"></a><var>93.17</var>subdivision 1, clause (3).<br />
         		<a id="pl.93.18"></a><var>93.18</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Subd. 2. <b>Revisor of statutes.</b> The revisor of statutes shall change the reference from <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.19"></a><var>93.19</var>"216B.095" to "216B.096" wherever found in Minnesota Rules, chapter 7820.<br />
         		<br />
         		<a id="bill.5.10.0"></a><a id="pl.93.20"></a><var>93.20</var>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sec. 10. <b> REPEALER.</b><br />
         		<a id="pl.93.21"></a><var>93.21</var>(a) Minnesota Rules, parts 7831.0100; 7831.0200; 7831.0300; 7831.0400; <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.22"></a><var>93.22</var>7831.0500; 7831.0600; 7831.0700; and 7831.0800, are repealed as they pertain to a <br />
         		<a id="pl.93.23"></a><var>93.23</var>general rate case for a gas or electric utility held before the commission.<br />
         		<a id="pl.93.24"></a><var>93.24</var>(b) Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 216B.095, is repealed.<br />
         		
      </div>