Pawlenty commissioner will jump back to private sector

06/07/2007

Associated Press
Last update: June 07, 2007


Department of Labor and Industry Commissioner Scott Brener is stepping down next month to take a job with an insurance company, Gov. Tim Pawlenty announced Thursday.

Brener has been in charge of the labor agency for most of the Republican governor's time in office. He previously worked under former Gov. Arne Carlson in various capacities.

He is resigning effective July 5 to become a vice president and general counsel for SFM Companies, a Minnesota-based insurance group.

The Department of Labor and Industry oversees workers' compensation system for the state, monitors compliance with workplace safety laws and regulates construction codes.

It has about 500 employees.

Pawlenty didn't immediately name a replacement.