Department of Natural Resources employees that serve the public providing contact information the usual means of contact are not available requirement
Impact
If enacted, SF2906 would amend existing Minnesota statutes to create a formal requirement for DNR employees regarding public contact information. This change could lead to significant enhancements in how public services are delivered, allowing citizens greater access when faced with challenges in reaching governmental representatives. The provision aims to reduce the frustration of the public in seeking assistance from state agencies, particularly in vital areas concerning natural resources management and environmental matters.
Summary
SF2906 is a legislative proposal aimed at improving communication between employees of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the public. The bill mandates that when DNR employees who are responsible for serving the public cannot be reached by usual contact methods, they must provide alternative contact information either for themselves or another employee who can assist. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance accountability and transparency within state agencies, ensuring that the public can access necessary resources when standard communication channels fail.
Contention
The introduction of SF2906 may raise discussions regarding privacy and the boundaries of personal information disclosure. While the bill stipulates that no private contact information of employees should be required, debates may arise around what constitutes 'usual means of contact' and whether the stipulated alternative contacts sufficiently safeguard both employee privacy and public transparency. Furthermore, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of this mandate and the potential increase in administrative burdens on DNR employees.
Environment and natural resources trust fund recipients requirement that criminal background checks be performed on employees, volunteers and contractors that work with children establishment
Recipients of money appropriated from environment and natural resources trust fund required to perform criminal background checks on employees, volunteers, and contractors that work with children.
Board of Medical Practice membership modified, requirements for complaint review committee membership and processes established, requirements for information on provider profiles on Board of Medicine website established, requirements for posted information at points of patient contact established, audit required, and reports required.