| For Immediate Release | For more information contact: |
| February 14, 2002 | Jessie Roos (651-296-9719) |
"In my work as a Certified Public Accountant, on several occasions I've found American Legions or V.F.W.s who are having a hard time paying their utility bills," said Jacobson. "Under current law, they are unable to utilize the profits from charitable gambling to pay for utilities. My proposal changes that law, allowing these organizations to continue serving veterans and their communities."
Joining Jacobson in testifying in support of the bill were several members of the American Legion Post 513, located in New Brighton, Minn. Edwin Lindquist, the Post Adjutant, highlighted the fact that Legions and V.F.W.s throughout Minnesota are losing members at a rapid pace and are having a hard time keeping up with fixed costs. Pete Varhol, of Legion Post 513's Housing Committee, and Marvin Moe, the Post's Gambling Manager, also addressed the needs Minnesota American Legions face.
Jim Cornell, the Manager of Gaming Operations for Cornell, Kahler, Kosbab & Shidell, PLLP, indicated that this is a "feast or famine" issue for veteran's organizations that are really struggling to make ends meet.
"It will be impossible for veteran's organizations to keep their 'homes' up and running over the course of the next few years without additional funds," said Cornell. "All Legions and V.F.W.s are struggling on the general side of their operations and this is a great opportunity for the Legislature to help them out."
Jacobson's legislation, House File 3004, was introduced in the House last week and was referred to the House Government Operations and Veterans Affairs Committee, where it was passed onto the House floor on Wednesday night.
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The text of this news column, along with a headshot of Representative Jacobson, are available at www.house.mn/53B or by contacting Jessie Roos at 651-296-9719.