Since 1919, state law has limited where veterans' memorials funded by county boards could be located, restricting them to courthouse squares, public parks or cemeteries in the county seat.
But legislation that has unanimously passed the Minnesota House calls for expanding potential sites for the memorials.
Sponsored by Rep. Chris Swedzinski, R-Ghent, the legislation was suggested by American Legion Post 199 in Minneota, which has sought to create a memorial outside the Lyon County seat of Marshall with County Board assistance.
The bill now heads to the Senate, where it is sponsored by Sen. Gary Dahms, R-Redwood Falls.
Mark Brunswick @markabrunswick
Grand Marais
Isle Royale visitors might get another travel option
Minnesotans who want to travel to Lake Superior's Isle Royale may soon have an option other than a boat.
The National Park Service is considering authorizing Isle Royale Seaplanes to start air taxi service from Devil Track Lake near Grand Marais to the island in 2017 or 2018. The company already has a contract to fly people in from Houghton County, Mich.
The company now provides up to five flights a day with a maximum of 20 people entering and leaving Isle Royale.
The National Park Service would authorize a one- or two-year trial period from Grand Marais. It would include flight pattern and altitude restrictions, as well as sound monitoring.
