$150K study could help Minn. benefit from ND oil

Minnesota lawmakers are considering a $150,000 study of the North Dakota oil boom's effects on the state.

The same study would examine ways Minnesota could take advantage of the boom and be more economically competitive.

The Minnesota Senate Tax Committee has laid over a proposal to pay for the research from the state's general fund for possible inclusion in a larger tax bill that might pass later this session.

Some Minnesota businesses already are benefiting from North Dakota's hot economy. Some companies are helping expand local infrastructures. Others are selling energy-industry items. Still more are providing drilling and safety equipment.

Twin Valley Democratic Sen. Kent Eken is sponsoring the bill because he wants to make sure Minnesota doesn't miss the boat.

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