'08 LEGISLATURE STARTS 2ND WEEK

Minnesota Democrat leaders are claiming a quick and successful first week for the legislative session. Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher said the much-needed Transportation Bill is being heard in committees and moving along well. This year's version includes a gas tax hike, a metro-area sales tax increase and an increase in some car license tab fees. Last year's version was vetoed because it raised too many taxes. House Majority Leader Tony Sertich said its been a good week with a successful start. The Legacy Bill could lead to a constitutional amendment that would raise the state sales tax by nearly .5%. The money could then be applied for in grant form, cleared by conservation or arts advisory boards and then appropriated by the legislature.