This bill introduces a series of amendments to Minnesota Statutes aimed at enhancing state government operations, employee benefits, and accountability measures. Key provisions include the designation of the giant beaver as the official state fossil and Ursa Minor as the official state constellation. It establishes a Special Reviews Division within the Office of the Legislative Auditor to improve oversight and accountability, modifies the process for contesting data accuracy, and introduces new provisions for sharing data related to fraud in public programs. Additionally, the bill expands whistleblower protections for public employees, modifies eligibility for state employee group insurance, and creates the State Agency Value Initiative (SAVI) program to encourage cost-saving measures within state agencies.

The bill also addresses state employee benefits by allowing the donation of vacation time among employees and establishing a long-term care insurance program. It modifies the eligibility criteria for state-paid benefits, clarifies employee discipline procedures, and introduces a model ordinance for outdoor lighting to reduce light pollution. Furthermore, it revives the Legislative COVID-19 Response Commission and establishes a Driver and Vehicle Systems Oversight Committee to ensure accountability in managing vehicle registration systems. Overall, the bill aims to streamline government operations, enhance transparency, and improve employee benefits while ensuring effective use of public resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 16B.328, 16B.055, 16B.335, 16B.48, 16B.54, 16C.137, 4A.07
1st Engrossment: 3.303, 3.305, 3.971, 11A.24, 13.04, 14.48, 14.62, 15A.082, 16A.28, 16B.055, 16B.335, 16B.48, 16B.54, 16B.97, 16B.98, 16B.981, 16B.991, 16C.05, 16C.137, 16C.16, 16D.09, 43A.27, 151.741, 181.931, 181.932, 471.6985, 16B.45, 43A.01, 43A.02, 43A.04, 43A.05, 43A.08, 43A.11, 43A.121, 43A.15, 43A.17, 43A.18, 43A.181, 43A.1815, 43A.19, 43A.23, 43A.24, 43A.33, 43A.346, 43A.36, 43A.421