2010 CD1 Convention Resolutions (draft)
MN 1st CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT REPUBLICANS
2010 RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE REPORT
Committee Members
Chris Kleinschmidt, Chair
Duane Quam
Resolution 1
PREAMBLE
The Republican Party of Minnesota believes that the primary purpose of all levels of government in this country–federal, state, and local–is to defend the life, liberty, and property of individuals from assault by enemies, foreign or domestic and that any other function governments can and do perform are, at their very best, subsidiary and, at their very worst, in direct opposition to this primary purpose.
SECTION 1 – Creating an Environment for Economic Prosperity: Controlling Taxes, Spending, and Regulation
Republicans believe that limited government is the best government and that free enterprise is the best path to prosperity for all Minnesotans. We support reducing taxes, spending and regulation to create business opportunities for our hard-working families and businesses. Therefore, we support:
Resolution 2
(A) Reducing the burden of existing taxation on our economy, supporting President Bush’s tax cuts and making those cuts permanent; abolishing federal and state capital gains taxes as well as taxes on marriage, sickness, death, inheritance, Social Security and veterans’ benefits and pensions, the Alternative Minimum Tax, and keeping internet access and sales free of taxation, and opposing the creation of a sales tax on clothing or additional food items.
Resolution 3
(C) Reforming our tax systems, including our complex state property tax system, abolishing the current IRS tax code and replacing it with a simpler, fairer tax system that favors a national sales tax or a flat tax the “fair tax.”
Resolution 4
(C) Reforming our tax systems, including our complex state property tax system, abolishing the current IRS tax code and replacing it with a simpler, fairer tax system that favors a national sales tax or a flat tax.
Resolution 5
(F) Very strongly, ceasing to charge Minnesota state sales tax on local government purchases.
Resolution 6
(I) A fair and honest competitive business environment and therefore we oppose corporate welfare and encourage vigorous enforcement of anti-trust laws.
Resolution 7
(K) Requiring that before any new government project or program is initiated, that its purpose, cost and anticipated life be set forth and that performance measurements–including a definition and criteria of success–be set, and that dismantling plans be established in case the project or program does not meet specifications.
Resolution 8
An annual audit of the Federal Reserve System.
Resolution 9
The requirement for full and complete annual audits of all US Federal Reserve Banks by one or more private Certified Public Accounting firms. This audit shall be carried out in strict compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Practices. The report of this audit, including all of the auditors comments and footnotes, shall be public record and be completed within 90 days of the Banks’ fiscal year end.
Resolution 10
Creation of a policy by the Minnesota State government to use constitutionally legal tender in conducting commerce. Whereas Article I Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution mandates fixed weights and measures to establish Truth in Commerce, and The Coinage Act of 1792 clearly defined “constitutional tender,” the U.S. Congress and the State of Minnesota are thus in violation.
Resolution 11
A return to a strict constitutional definition of “money” and that the transition toward this end be implemented as expeditiously as possible without creating economic chaos.
Resolution 12
Enforcing insurance requirements for motor vehicles in the State of Minnesota.
Resolution 13
Opposing the elimination of deductions for charitable contributions.
Resolution 14
That the State budget be balanced.
Resolution 15
Reinstatement of the State of Minnesota’s tax reciprocity agreement with Wisconsin.
Resolution 16
Billing the country of origin for all medical expenses for any illegal immigrants; and that upon completion of medical procedures, illegal immigrants then be immediately deported to their country of origin.
Resolution 17
Reversing the abolition of the harvest of horse meat for human consumption, and the consequent reinstatement of the operation of such facilities.
Resolution 18
Reopening equine slaughter plants in an effort to reestablish the crumbling horse industry; as listening to special interest groups in closing these plants has decimated the horse industry not only economically, but it has also caused horses to suffer from abuse and neglect when they would have otherwise been euthanized humanely.
Resolution 19
The production, by the United States, of energy in excess of its need to maintain self-sufficiency, so that it may be well-equipped to compete in the international marketplace.
Resolution 20
The allocation of local government aid toward that which it was originally intended: to cover state mandates, provide basic services, and to aid property-poor cities (and not so much property-rich cities).
Resolution 21
We support limiting welfare payments made to new Minnesota residents (Less than 5 years) to 90% of that amount they would receive from their previous state of residence or 75% of the current Minnesota level, whichever is lower.
Resolution 22
Repealing the “Restructuring/Quality Incentive Payments” law.
Resolution 23
The establishment of tax incentives for start-up manufacturing companies based in the United States for the purpose of creating more jobs.
Resolution 24
Providing incentives for businesses to keep manufacturing jobs in our country.
Resolution 25
Be it Resolved that the State of Minnesota reduce corporate income tax by 50%.
Resolution 26
The repeal the Federal Income Tax and the abolition of The Internal Revenue Service and replacing them with a system of lawful taxation as set in the Constitution.
Resolution 27
The reduction of the national debt and the maintenance of balanced budgets.
Resolution 28
No more bailouts.
Resolution 29
No deficit spending.
Resolution 30
Facilitating immigration for those skilled immigrants who wish to enter the country legally.
Resolution 31
A law stipulating that the constitutional power “to regulate commerce between states” shall not be extended beyond the regulation of the actual transfer of goods, services, and materials across state lines; it shall not apply to purported consequents or antecedents thereof.
Resolution 32
Reducing environmental regulation and the consequent wait time caused by environmental impact studies that hinder development projects.
Resolution 33
Returning unused TARP money and allocating it toward the reduction of the Federal budget deficit and/or federal debt.
Resolution 34
The implementation of a monetary system that promotes sound money, that does not monetize debt, and that does not destroy the savings of the American people.
Resolution 35
Changing MN Tax Laws to align with IRS code for Section 179 and Depreciation so that the need for two sets of bookkeeping records may be eliminated.
Resolution 36
That the state budget be capped at an amount not to exceed 98% of the average State Revenue from the previous two years.
Resolution 37
Amending the state constitution to require that the budget be set at no more than the income received in the previous budget cycle.
Resolution 38
That the $80 per day reimbursement for members of the State House of Representatives be reduced to $40 per day.
Resolution 39
Refusing the implementation of any “stimulus” funds for the purpose of constructing a rail line from Minneapolis to Chicago, as there is no apparent need, and public safety may be compromised. We request these funds be spent on existing roads and bridges.
Resolution 40
A federal mandate that all gasoline sold be composed of 15% ethanol.
Resolution 41
Relaxing the prerequisites for permitting the construction of nuclear power plants.
Resolution 42
That the United States build nuclear Power Plants again.
Resolution 43
The development of all domestic energy resources, including but not limited to petroleum, coal, natural gas and nuclear power.
Resolution 44
Legislation that would authorize a Racino at Canterbury Downs in Shakopee, Minnesota.
Resolution 45
Eliminating the self-employment tax for small businesses (those with fewer than 25 employees).
Resolution 46
Legislation requiring that, that prior to being eligible for any form of state medical coverage, recipients must have been a resident of the state for a minimum of 30 days.
Resolution 47
That no state or federal tax refund may exceed the amount of tax paid by the tax filer.
Resolution 48
That state contracts be open to any contractor who can fulfill the criteria of the contract and that state purchasing agents must adhere to contracts.
Resolution 49
That rural, out state Minnesota be exempt from having to pay the state prevailing wage that is currently required when doing rural county road & bridge construction, as well as any other contracted services.
Resolution 50
The passage of a “Spending Accountability Amendment” to the State Constitution of Minnesota, requiring that our state budgets be based on revenues collected during the previous biennium rather than on “projected future revenues.”
Resolution 51
Implementing stricter “Pay as You Go” legislation at all levels of government.
Resolution 52
No efforts to change the current health care system until the unfunded Obligation of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are under control.
SECTION 2 – Preserving Civil Rights
The Republican Party, the Party that abolished slavery, believes that the government should treat all of its citizens equally under the law. Therefore, we advocate:
Resolution 53
(A) Adopting policies that reflect that every innocent human being, born and unborn, has an inalienable right to life from conception to natural death. We thus seek the adoption of a Human Life Amendment to the United States Constitution, which would restore legal protection for the lives of human beings from conception to natural death.
Resolution 54
(B) Abortion without exception is wrong and should be opposed. We oppose partial birth abortions, saline abortions, and forced taxpayer funding of abortions or abortion providers. Abortions performed on minors without parental consent are wrong and should not be forced on the people of Minnesota by their government.
Resolution 55
(B) Abortion, without exception, is wrong and should be opposed. We oppose partial birth abortions and forced taxpayer funding of abortions or abortion providers. Abortions performed on minors without parental consent are wrong and should not be forced on the people of Minnesota by their government.
*inserted commas
Resolution 56
(C) Providing women considering abortions with information on alternatives to abortion as well as on the emotional and physical repercussions of abortion, including information on the pain felt by unborn babies, even at early stages in pregnancy. We also advocate legislation that would require anyone considering a tax-funded abortion to view a video of an abortion prior to the procedure.
Resolution 57
(J) State and federal prohibition of all human cloning, whether reproductive or so-called ‘therapeutic’ cloning, and the use of human embryos or embryonic stem cells should be prohibited.
Resolution 58
(M) Requiring informed opt-in consent of parents for newborn genetic testing and for the Minnesota Department of Health to retain their children’s DNA. Enforcement of the Minnesota Genetic Privacy Law (1986), which requires written informed consent for the collection, storage, use, and dissemination of genetic information. We thus demand the destruction of any such information acquired since its enactment, as well as the prohibition of its uses.
Resolution 59
(M) Requiring informed opt-in consent of parents for newborn genetic testing and for the Minnesota Department of Health to retain their children’s DNA. Governor Pawlenty require the Minnesota Department of Health to destroy all genetic information unlawfully obtained and to comply with the written information parent consent requirements of the Minnesota Genetic Privacy Law.
Resolution 60
(W) Reaffirming a responsible, competent citizen’s right to self-defense through registration-free gun ownership and, a ‘must issue’ carry permit system, and the repeal of any law requiring a fee in order to obtain a permit. and We also are in favor of removing restrictions and liability in the face of attack.
Resolution 61
(Z) Supporting the right of employees to organize through secret ballot, to join a union or other association, and to not have dues used to support political candidates, and
requiring unions to receive written permission from their members before collecting funds for any political purpose.
Resolution 62
The Minnesota Legislature pass a ban on cruel saline abortions, in which a poisonous saline solution is used to burn to death an unborn child in the womb.
Resolution 63
The legislature pass a ban on cruel saline abortions, which burns and suffocates the unborn child in the womb.
Resolution 64
Overturning the Minnesota Doe v. Gomez decision, which declared an absolute right to abortion.
Resolution 65
Standing opposed to the Minnesota Supreme Court decision, Doe v. Gomez, which established an absolute “right” to abortion for any reason in the Minnesota Constitution.
Resolution 66
The assertion that abortion is not health care and oppose any health care legislation in which funding for abortion funding is included.
Resolution 67
That the law should protect live aborted babies and handicapped newborns from the harvesting of their organs and tissues for the purpose of transplantation or experimentation.
Resolution 68
That hospitals shall not be forced to provide abortions.
Resolution 69
That doctors, nurses, and other medical workers shall not be forced to be involved in doing abortions contrary to their consciences in order to maintain licenses to practice.
Resolution 70
Free health care workers from penalties or job loss due to conscientious objection to performing or assisting medical procedures such as abortion.
Resolution 71
Repeal of the 2008 Minnesota “Payment Restructuring/Quality Incentive Payments” legislation, which requires that physicians report performance data to the Department of Health.
Resolution 72
That persons who wish to protect and promote the right to life of the unborn will be protected from discrimination by law.
Resolution 73
The elimination of health coverage discrimination against people with preexisting conditions.
Resolution 74
Opposition to “hate crimes” laws, as they are a violation of the spirit of the constitutional prohibition on double jeopardy, are inimical to the basic liberty of the mind, and are inherently discriminatory in their application.
Resolution 75
Removing the restriction “on account of such person being an alien, or by reason of his color, or race,” from USC 18 242, which makes it a crime to misuse the law to subject persons to the deprivation of rights, privileges, and immunities secured or protected by the Constitution. This change would extend the protection of the Civil Rights Act to all persons.
Resolution 76
That the State of Minnesota continue to uphold the right of people to keep and bear arms–even as the Federal Government continues its attempts to violate that right–by the passage of a Firearms Freedom Act, similar to that which passed in Montana and subsequently several other states.
Resolution 77
Legislation that would eliminate any duty to flee where self-defense is required.
Resolution 78
Be it resolved that the term “unborn baby” be replaced by the term “pre-born baby” wherever it currently appears in the state party platform.
SECTION 3 – Educating our Children
Republicans believe that parents are responsible for their children’s education and that parents, teachers and local school boards can best make decisions about our children’s education. Therefore, we support:
Resolution 79
(B) A well-rounded knowledge-based curriculum to prepare our children to be good citizens and to compete in the rapidly evolving economy of the 21st century, and emphasizing traditional values of hard work, honesty, home and family, and respect for America’s religious and civic heritage, including the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution, and the founding fathers and their Christian faith.
Resolution 80
(N) Requiring that at least 70% of school district budgets be spent in the classroom.
Resolution 81
The idea that schools are meant to be academic in nature and to simply teach children–not to indoctrinate them or to impress upon them some politically correct point of view (such as all things to do with diversity). We further advocate that schools return to tried and true methods of educating where newer methods have failed; that they teach children to exercise problem solving skills rather than foster over-dependance on technologies; and that they recognize the importance of economics as an academic discipline.
Resolution 82
Basic economics being taught as part of the curriculum.
Resolution 83
That any delayed school district payments have a mandated payback date.
Resolution 84
Charging an equal amount to the teacher’s union when contract negotiations go past deadline for teacher’s contract.
Resolution 85
Limiting the ratio of students to teachers to 18:1 in all elementary schools.
Resolution 86
We support taking the lottery money that goes to the DNR and applying it to education funding.
Resolution 87
That the State of Minnesota provide equal payments to school districts on a per pupil basis.
Resolution 88
The initiative to motivate parents to choose how their children are educated about sexual education and reproduction.
Resolution 89
Elimination of the current practice whereby each year, after January 15, state funds are withheld from a given school until only after the school board and teachers of that school have reached an agreement in salary negotiations.
SECTION 4 – Strengthening Families and Communities
The Republican Party recognizes the blessings that God has bestowed on this great Nation. We declare our faith in Him and ask His continued guidance as we work to preserve this government of “One Nation Under God”. We also recognize the sanctity of human life and marriage, and the central role of the traditional family in our society. Therefore, we believe that:
Resolution 90
(J) We should eliminate all state-sponsored gambling and oppose any expansion of gambling in Minnesota.
Resolution 91
(L) Programs that reduce health care costs by introducing genuine market competition into the system and eliminating state mandated coverage of various illnesses and conditions. We oppose all proposals for socialized (i.e., ‘single payer’) medicine, and support the repeal of Minnesota Care, and opposing programs that ration health care.
Resolution 92
(Q) All health care expenses should be fully tax deductible, whether purchased individually or by an employer, and health savings accounts should be expanded so that individuals can purchase and control their own health care without going through a third-party payer.
Resolution 93
(R) The 2008 Minnesota patient “Encounter Data” legislation, which requires insurance companies and other payers to report private patient data to the Department of Health without patient consent, should be repealed. Furthermore, Minnesota patient privacy laws should be strengthened to require informed, written,
voluntary consent for all disclosures of patient data.
Resolution 94
That all persons applying for state funded benefits have proof of U.S. Citizenship on all application forms.
Resolution 95
Our U.S. Constitution is in need of A Parental Rights Amendment; to permanently and explicitly secure the rights of parents to raise their children according to their conscience without national or international government intrusion or oversight.
Resolution 96
Adding the Parental Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Resolution 97
Be it resolved that we support the 9 principles of 12 values of the 9 12 project as listed here. The 9 Principles: America is good; I believe in God and He is the Center of my Life; I must always try to be a more honest person that I was yesterday; The family is sacred. My spouse and I are the ultimate authority, not the government; If you break the law you pay the penalty. Justice is blind and no one is above it; I have the right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, but there is not guarantee of equal results; I work hard for what I have and I will share it with who I want to, government can not force me to be charitable; It is not un-American for me to disagree with authority or to share my personal opinion; The government works for me. I do not answer to them, they answer to me. The 12 Values: Honesty, Reverence, Hope, Thrift, Humility, Charity, Sincerity, Moderation, Hard Work, Courage, Personal Responsibility, Friendship.
Resolution 98
English should be the official state language and all state forms should be presented in English only.
Resolution 99
Funding should be available for Doula Care for Birthing Women.
Resolution 100
We should support legislation on raising & feeding our livestock; and be particularly concerned about the media’s “anti-farm” activists.
Resolution 101
We ought to retain the blessing of liberty as secured to us by our founding fathers and expressed in our Constitution; we the people thus reject the imposition of a new, Washington controlled system of health care upon us.
Resolution 102
Minnesota should not abide by news laws set forth by the recent health care legislation and should opt-out of it.
Resolution 103
We should oppose a government government-mandated limitations on individuals paying for their own care.
Resolution 104
That the Minnesota Constitution be amended to include the “Freedom of Choice in Health Care Amendment”, which would affirm the freedom not to purchase health insurance.
Resolution 105
That the Minnesota Constitution be amended to include the “Freedom of Choice in Health Care Amendment”, which would affirm the freedom not to purchase health insurance and the freedom to pay directly for medical care.
Resolution 106
That health care should not be taken over by the government, but should rather be kept in the private sector.
Resolution 107
That we oppose a government takeover of our health care system and support that it remain a free enterprise.
Resolution 108
That the Republican Party support a state amendment to prohibit the Federal Government from imposing a tax or fine or penalty on individuals for not having health insurance and allow individuals states to regulate the health insurance industry within their individual state’s regulations.
Resolution 109
A reform of Medicare.
Resolution 110
We should pass legislation that would allow the carrying over of existing health insurance provisions from one employer to another.
Resolution 111
Health Savings Accounts and Flex Spending Accounts should not expire at the end of each year and that unused funds in such accounts may be carried over into the following year.
Resolution 112
Health care providers ought to be required to publish their prices.
Resolution 113
That the State of Minnesota maintain the levels of local government aid to cities and municipalities.
Resolution 114
Eliminate funding to any organization such as Community Organizations International (formerly ACORN).
Resolution 115
That no money shall be given to any Minnesota branch of Community Organizations International (formerly ACORN) of MN or any of its affiliates.
Resolution 116
Prohibiting “Organize for America” and similar taxpayer funded manipulation of our youth’s ideology.
Resolution 117
We favor all stimulus dollars for Minnesota be spent on repairing our worst roads while event centers, trails, museums, etc. will have to wait for a better economy.
Resolution 118
The elimination of private insurance.
SECTION 5 – Protecting the Public’s Safety
Republicans believe that the most fundamental function of government is to keep our property and us secure. Therefore, we support:
Resolution 119
(D) That as a condition of parole, an inmate must have participated in Adult Basic Education, if the inmate does not already have a high school diploma or GED.
Resolution 120
(I) That police, in the course of their regular duties, will be instructed not to ignore immigration status of non-citizens when said status is not in good standing with relevant requirements as required by law. Furthermore, we oppose the establishment of sanctuary cities for illegal aliens and thus believe that such cities should be denied government aid.
Resolution 121
The concept commonly known as the “castle doctrine,” which holds that a person’s home is one’s “castle” and that he/she has the right to defend it and themselves.
Resolution 122
Prohibiting Mexican trucks from traveling on US highways until such trucks and their drivers are in compliance with the same laws and regulations as required of US drivers and trucks.
Resolution 123
Inspecting all trucks entering the United States from Mexico for illegal drugs or immigrants to help win the border war on drugs.
SECTION 6 – Strengthening the Rule of Law
Republicans believe that our legal system has been subject to abuse in the form of frivolous lawsuits; excessive numbers of lawsuits; and lawsuits that are intended to advance a political agenda, rather than adjudicate real controversies. Therefore, we support:
Resolution 124
(G) Removing the word “incumbent” after judicial candidates’ names on the ballots.
Resolution 125
That the Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United .States that does not apply equally to the senators and/or representatives; and Congress shall make no law that applies to the senators and/or representatives that does not apply equally to the citizens of the United States.
Resolution 126
The idea that elected officials must abide by the same laws that citizens are bound to.
Resolution 127
That all legislation passed applies to all federal officials.
Resolution 128
That Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the senators and/or representatives; and Congress shall make no law that applies to the senators and/or representatives that does not apply equally to the citizens of the United States.
Resolution 129
The adoption of an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that requires all members of Congress and all other elected officials be subject to the same healthcare, laws, rules, ordinances, mandates, and regulations that they force on the citizens.
Resolution 130
The following measures be effected: Congress shall receive no special health care coverage over and above the same health care system they vote in for the American Citizens; Congress will not vote themselves a pay raise but their pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%; Congress will collect a salary while serving in office, but will receive no pay when they are out of office; Congress will not have provided for themselves a retirement plan or pension but instead will participate in the Social Security system; all of Congress’ retirement/pension funds will move into the Social Security system as of 1/1/11; all contracts with past and present Congress will be null and void effective 1/1/11.
Resolution 131
Disallowing elected officials to accrue retirement pay for their service.
Resolution 132
That an an elected person takes the Oath of Office, their oath shall be taken upon the Bible, as an act of faith in God and that all people including Government are under His authority.
Resolution 133
Reforms that would eliminate lengthy delays in trial procedures.
Resolution 134
That the Secretary of State shall independently verify that the candidates for the offices of President and Vice President qualify for the office in accordance to the requirements set forth n the U.S. Constitution and that candidates shall not be placed on the ballot if not so certified by the Secretary of State.
Resolution 135
That persons elected to federal office be investigated for the purposes of confirming whether they were eligible for election to that office.
Resolution 136
Enforcement of Article 2 Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution, which requires that a name not be placed on any state presidential ballot unless that person has met all eligibility requirements.
Resolution 137
That any elected state or federal official who has failed to pay his or her taxes on time, without having been granted an extension, be immediately removed from office.
Resolution 138
Encouraging the U.S. Congress to exercise its constitutional authority under Article 3, Section 2, Clause 2.
Resolution 139
The assertion that the federal government may not, whether under color of law or name of office, enact or enforce any law, act, decision, or ruling beyond the express powers delegated to it by the several states via the Constitution.
Resolution 140
That election ballots designate party affiliation of any candidates for judge.
Resolution 141
That ballots of voters registered on election day shall be set aside and not counted until registration is verified and found to be in compliance with all voting regulations.
Resolution 142
That the executive order of President Obama to give unprecedented authority to INTERPOL be challenged, and that its authority be to returned to its limited privileges established in 1983 by President Reagan.
Resolution 143
That we affirm that no treaty with any country or entity shall supersede the U.S. Constitution.
Resolution 144
That the U.S. Government adopt legislation that limits the amount of malpractice suits against medical providers so as to lower health care and insurance costs.
Resolution 145
Meaningful tort reform be adopted to lower malpractice insurance rates, which thus would reduce the prevalence of the practice of defensive medicine.
Resolution 146
Limitations on punitive damage awards (those in addition to compensatory damage awards) in civil cases where liability has been determined. This includes, but is not limited to, cases involving medical malpractice.
Resolution 147
Oppose prolonged military action broad without a Congressional declaration of war in keeping with the constitutional separation of powers.
Resolution 148
Reduction of federal power over states.
Resolution 149
Federal government has no say as to who gets private sector air time.
Resolution 150
Favoring the separation of powers, whereby judges do not have the power to preempt the governor’s decisions.
Resolution 151
That the rulings, opinions, records, backgrounds of judicial candidates be published and be made available to the public prior to and on election day.
Resolution 152
That our state shall not be dictated to by the federal government and, thus, it should reject the new federal health care legislation.
Resolution 153
That the citizens of Minnesota favor the reassertion of the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, reserving the right to decline federal legislation, regulations, or mandates not authorized under the Constitution.
Resolution 154
Making all public labor unions illegal.
Resolution 155
The practice of subligation in cases only where insurance companies pay a corresponding proportion of the attorney fees accrued by their client.
Resolution 156
That a child born to an illegal alien should not automatically be considered and American citizen.
SECTION 7 – Enjoying and Protecting Our Natural Resources
The Republican Party believes that proper stewardship of our natural resources and agricultural lands will best be achieved through sound science and adherence to constitutionally guaranteed property rights. Therefore, we support:
Resolution 157
J. Eliminating government subsidies of ethanol production and opposing government mandates for ethanol in gasoline.
Resolution 158
Continued subsidies for biofuels (ethanol, biodiesel, etc.) and increased mandates for their use; we also support additional progress on other biofuels programs.
Resolution 159
Protecting our environment without the burden of any additional limitations or taxes on energy use, such as “Cap and Trade.”
Resolution 160
Opposing “cap and trade” laws.
Resolution 161
Preservation of the right to hunt and fish.
Resolution 162
Pursuing the use of waterpower at the Mississippi dams for the generation of electricity to service a tier or two of counties bordering the river.
Resolution 163
Opposing government mandates and subsidies for bio-diesel, windpower, and solar
Resolution 164
That MN State Parks should be free of charge for use by Girls Scouts and Boy Scouts and similar youth organizations, as this would further encourage young people to love and preserve our state parks.
Resolution 165
That no land is to be purchased by the DNR using bonding. (We are already paying 3/8% dedicated sales tax.)
Resolution 166
The Repeal of the Next Generation Energy Act of 2007, which requires 25% of energy in Minnesota come from renewable resources by 2025.
Resolution 167
That the EPA should not be allowed to enforce policies that conflict with legislative rule.
Resolution 168
That all agricultural regulations be based on sound scientific evidence.
Resolution 169
Encouraging Congress to amend the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act in order to limit the power of the EPA to impair farmers’ ability to make a living
Resolution 170
Taking away the EPA’s power to effectively legislate by regulation.
Resolution 171
Opposing EPA classification of carbon dioxide as a pollutant.
Resolution 172
The abolition of the the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) should it restrict the production of carbon dioxide in any manner.
Resolution 173
Opposing the expansion of ethanol production in Minnesota since it is energy neutral, producing about the same amount of energy its production consumes.
Resolution 174
Requiring nuclear waste to be stored in the purpose-built and paid for structure at Nevada’s Yucca Mountain, as nuclear waste needs to be stored away from our water supplies.
Resolution 175
That the nuclear waste at Prairies Island should be moved, as there is a fault line along the Mississippi River, and the waste should be stored in a safe site away from our water supplies.
Resolution 176
That Minnesota citizens not have to spend one more dime on the theory of human-caused global warming and/or climate change until it has been thoroughly and openly from debated.
Resolution 177
Be it resolved that we support using all energy resources without subsidizing any and getting government out of the way of energy use.
Resolution 178
That bounties be paid for purpose of controlling the growing coyote population, as it has multiplied to the extent that they are preying upon small farm animals and wildlife.
Resolution 179
That the money dedicated to the Outdoor Heritage Fund from revenue collected under the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment to the Constitution of the State of Minnesota be spent only to increase and/or improve wildlife habitat according to the language defining “restore, protect and enhance” set forth by the Lasard-Samms Outdoor Heritage Council. As such, revenue dedicated to the fund would be spent only as voters intended and thus could not be used to finance non-environmental projects.
Resolution 180
Repeal of the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment to the Constitution of the State of Minnesota.
SECTION 8 – Making Government Smaller and Better
Republicans want government to be honest, efficient and responsive to individual concerns. Therefore, we advocate:
Resolution 181
(J) That a non-partisan commission be created by law to ensure [f]air redistricting without gerrymandering and with Senate District that do not cross congressional district boundaries.
Resolution 182
(L) Adopting an initiative and referendum law that would allow the citizens of Minnesota to vote on important issues.
Resolution 183
(M) Eliminating the practice of vouching for individuals at polling places, requiring that voters be registered at least 30 days prior to an election, requiring that voters present a valid proof of U.S. Citizenship and state residency via a photo ID, at the time of registration and when voting, and that all Minnesota counties adhere to a uniform system of voter registration.
Resolution 184
(P) Making English the official language in Minnesota and the United States of America and that all state forms should be in English only.
Resolution 185
Limiting salaries and benefits for all governmental jobs to no more than that of an equivalent private position.
Resolution 186
Lower salaries for government officials and employees.
Resolution 187
That government manage its workers based on performance and implement a mandatory year by year dismissal of the substandard workers, based on formal appraisals. We believe that, through this forced pruning, government workers will be refreshed and motivated while poor performers will be removed from the rolls. This should be implemented at the Federal and State levels.
Resolution 188
Thoughtful government financial decisions in which budgets are managed according to priorities, rather than “across-the-board” cuts.
Resolution 189
Fiscal responsibility in state spending by assigning first priority to basic government services and responsibilities such as schools, public safety, court systems, roads, and other basic public infrastructure. Non-critical projects should be secondary priorities only as the budgets allow.
Resolution 190
Be it resolved that we require our federal government to allow businesses to fail and to follow bankruptcy laws: Secured creditors, whose claims are protected by specific assets or collateral, such as real estate, are paid first; Unsecured creditors, which often include bank lenders, bondholders and suppliers, are next in line; Stockholders, who have purchased a portion of the company, are paid last if there is money available after the secured and unsecured creditors’ claims’ have been paid.
Resolution 191
The dismemberment of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) entity, enabling the autonomy of the individual member institutions.
Resolution 192
That a constitutional amendment be introduced to limit U.S. Senators to two elected terms, U.S. Representatives be limited to six elected terms.
Resolution 193
The adoption of a constitutional amendment be that would impose a 6-year (OR at the most 12-year) term limit on representatives and senators.
Resolution 194
Support term limits for members of the Minnesota legislature.
Resolution 195
Instituting term limits for all elected federal and state offices not to exceed two consecutive terms.
Resolution 196
The passage of legislation that prohibits the use of tax dollars to hire lobbyists and that prohibits governments or government agencies to pay dues or fees to organizations that lobby or hire lobbyists.
Resolution 197
That Congress shall make no Law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the senators or representatives, and Congress shall grant no privilege that applies to the senators or representatives that does not apply equally the citizens of the United States.
Resolution 198
Be it moved the Congress members eliminate junkets to other countries.
Resolution 199
That Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) be put back to Public Referendum.
Resolution 200
A focus of Mn/DOT’s mission to strict transportation needs that serve taxpayers 12 months of the year and, consequently, limiting recreation reserves to under 2% of the biannual budget.
Resolution 201
All government regulations are required to go through a cost benefit analysis prior to enactment.
Resolution 202
Each bill that comes before the U.S. Congress must specify where the U.S. Constitution authorizes such action.
Resolution 203
That any regional railroad authority be comprised of commissioners appointed by local townships, rather than the County Board of Commissioners.
Resolution 204
A legislative resolution that calls for the Federal and State governments to respect the states’ respective powers, as enumerated in the Constitution.
Resolution 205
Severely limit the “Presidential Directive” authority.
Resolution 206
The pension plan for members of Congress shall be pro-rated according to the number of terms served.
Resolution 207
Be it hereby resolved that absentee ballots need to be distributed in sufficient time to be returned from remote and overseas locations.
Resolution 208
Clarify and implement rules for absentee voting.
Resolution 209
Early voting should be allowed only for those voters who would not be physically able to vote on Election Day.
Resolution 210
For the purposes of promoting accurate election poll results, that one election judge representing each political party on the ballot initial all necessary election documents; and that at least two election judges, who may not share party affiliation, accompany the ballots to election headquarters.
Resolution 211
Cease congressional retirement funding other than Social Security so that legislators will be more compelled to return to private sector work.
Resolution 212
Amending the U.S. Constitution in order to set term limits for members of Congress to no more than two 6-year terms for senators and no more than six 2-year terms for members of the House of Representatives.
Resolution 213
Be it hereby resolved that we encourage term limits on Representatives in State and Federal and government.
Resolution 214
That Federal and State government freeze legislators budgets and salaries for a minimum of two years.
Resolution 215
Limiting legislative staff and their salary to only what is reasonably needed and to limiting the expense allowance of legislator’s to realistic expenses.
Resolution 216
That all federal officials who retire or fail re-election are required to comply with FEC financial reporting requirements for 5 years after they leave office.
Resolution 217
Ceasing the practice of granting per diem allowances to elected officials for duties performed during extended legislative sessions.
Resolution 218
The passage of a state law under which donations to any political candidates running in the state of Minnesota and/or state level political parties in Minnesota may be accepted only from residents of and/or corporations incorporated in the State of Minnesota.
Resolution 219
That elected representatives should be allowed to vote the opinion of their constituents and not have repercussions from their party.
SECTION 9 — Defending America at Home and Abroad
Republicans believe that peace is best maintained by having a strong national defense, securing our own borders, and by encouraging all peoples to seek freedom, democracy and free enterprise.. Therefore, we support:
Resolution 220
(N) Efforts to become less dependent on foreign oil including the development, promotion, and conservation of all available fuel sources such as nuclear power and opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and other domestic sources to oil drilling.
Resolution 221
(P) Rescinding the permanent most favored nation status for China and urging its expulsion from the WTO until it ceases its abuse of human, civil, and religious rights, including its persecution of religious believers.
Resolution 222
(T) Ending United States participation in the United Nations.
Resolution 223
That there be electronic internet access to all state businesses for the purpose of verifying legal status of job of applicants and/or current employees, as such verification is required by the U.S. Immigration laws.
Resolution 224
Rewriting immigration laws so that they are current and sensible and would include ending the practice of granting emergency immigration status.
Resolution 225
The continuation of the “don’t ask, don’t tell” military service policy.
Resolution 226
Opposing any foreign control of US natural resources or wilderness areas, including the UN Heritage Program, which would erode US sovereignty over those resources or areas.
Resolution 227
Legislation providing that the State of Minnesota divest itself from all Israel bond investments.
Resolution 228
We support the United States Energy Independence Act, which would require that we become energy independent within 15 years.
Resolution 229
We support decrease and eventual elimination of purchasing energy resources from potential enemies.
Resolution 230
Foreign individuals who commit terrorists acts against the US be tried in military tribunals and not the federal judicial system.
Resolution 231
All enemy combatants must be tried in military tribunals.
Resolution 232
Keeping the federal prison in Guantanamo Bay open, not transferring terrorist suspects to domestic prisons, and trying the occupants in military court.
Resolution 233
That all enemy combatants, foreign or domestic, be tried in military court, and shall not be afforded any constitutional rights afforded to U.S. Citizens.
Resolution 234
That terrorists be tried in military courts rather than in civilian courts, as military courts will process terrorists quickly and decisively, saving taxpayer dollars.
Resolution 235
That non-citizen terrorists should be tried in military courts.
Resolution 236
That only U.S. Citizens are guaranteed constitutional rights.
Resolution 237
Maintaining the current policy of “Don’t ask, don’t tell” in the Armed Forces.
Resolution 238
All retired military members’ benefits be exempt from state income taxes.
Resolution 239
That the Victory Gardens again be promoted.
COMMENDATORY
Since its inception, our party has embraced core American principles and chosen extraordinary leaders. Those leaders – like Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, and Ronald Reagan – not only embodied the very best in Republican values, but also led America to new triumphs of peace, prosperity, achievement and spirituality. Today we are blessed with a new generation of American and Minnesota leaders who proudly carry on those Republican traditions. Therefore, we commend:
Resolution 240
(D) Governor Tim Pawlenty for his hard work during the past year, his visits to this area, and for his efforts at holding down taxes at this crucial time in our history, and for holding the Minnesota state budget in check.
Resolution 241
(D) Governor Tim Pawlenty for his hard work during the past year, his visits to this area and for his efforts at holding down taxes at this crucial time in our history for holding the Minnesota state budget in check.
Resolution 242
(F) PARTY UNITY – We support efforts to make the Republican Party an inclusive, majority party without compromising our values, principles, and ideals as put forth in our Republican Party of MN Standing Platform.