Minnesota Senate Bill SF3100

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/22/23
• Refer: 3/22/23

Caption

Modifying the date on which the legislature must meet in odd number years and modifying the definition of legislative day

Impact

The amendments proposed in SF3100 also seek to redefine what constitutes a legislative day. According to the modifications, a legislative day would be recognized as any day when either house of the legislature convenes for certain critical activities, such as giving a bill a third reading, adopting procedural rules, or confirming gubernatorial appointments. By defining legislative days more clearly, the bill intends to enhance the procedural clarity within the legislative process, aligning more closely with constitutional requirements.

Summary

SF3100 is a legislative proposal aimed at modifying the schedule and operational definitions for the Minnesota Legislature. Specifically, the bill focuses on changing the date when the legislature must convene during odd-numbered years. It updates the existing statutes to ensure that the legislature meets on the first Tuesday after the first second Monday in January of each odd-numbered year, with provisions for special sessions called by the governor as necessary. This change potentially aims to align legislative sessions more closely with other governmental processes or needs.

Contention

While the text of the bill does not appear to indicate any explicit points of contention, such modifications to legislative scheduling can often lead to debates among lawmakers regarding procedural fairness, efficiency, and accessibility. Stakeholders may have differing views on whether changing the definition and schedule will improve legislative efficacy or hinder the ability of representatives to engage fully with their constituents and fellow lawmakers during critical periods. Overall, the bill represents a technical adjustment that may have broader implications depending on how it is implemented and perceived by members of the legislature.