| | Tom Hanson joined Winthrop & Weinstine, P.A.’s legislative & regulatory practice after serving as the Commissioner of Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) from 2006 to 2010. Tom’s experience working in both the minority and majority at the legislature, including eight years in administration, four in government office and four running a state finance agency, gives him a unique perspective of the full spectrum of government activities.
He uses his thorough knowledge of legislative and regulatory law to advise clients of the firm in their dealings with federal, state and local government. As governments across the spectrum retrench from deficits and budget cuts, Tom will help businesses and other entities navigate the reform and regulatory processes. He aims both to help clients avoid being disadvantaged by changes, and also to make sure they have input into reforms at all levels of government. Tom is always looking for opportunities that will allow his clients to perform their business activities better. He enjoys working with clients to make Minnesota the best place to do business.
During Tom’s tenure at MMB, Minnesota retained its position in the elite tier of AAA rated states, maintaining that bond rating from two of the three bond rating agencies. He successfully merged the Departments of Finance and Employee Relations, creating MMB, and led the effort to replace Minnesota’s aging accounting and procurement technology system.
Prior to being appointed Commissioner, Tom served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Legislative and Cabinet Affairs for Governor Tim Pawlenty from 2003 to 2006. Before that he held several positions with the Minnesota House of Representatives including the position of Legislative Director to the Speaker of the House from 1999 to 2003. He also served in Moorhead, Minnesota and Washington D.C. from 1985 to 1991 on the staff of Congressman Arlan Stangeland (R, MN). |
