Minnesota Republican Erik Paulsen's bill exempting medical device manufacturers from a new health care tax has passed the House. But it may not get any farther. Democrats in the Senate are not likely to take up the measure. The White House says it will be vetoed if it gets to the president's desk.

Governor Mark Dayton intends to streamline the permitting process for future business projects. At the same time he wants to make sure the state keeps solid environmental protections.

The U.S. House is expected to vote Thursday on legislation to eliminate a 2.3 percent excise tax on medical devices, included in President Obama's health-reform law. The bill is proposed by Minnesota Republican Congressman Erik Paulsen. The Business Journal notes the tax, set to go into effect next year, would impact large companies like Fridley-based Medtronic Inc. and Little Canada-based St. Jude Medical Inc.