The Mayo Clinic proposal for government help toward a major expansion in Rochester has eased past its first of many committee stops in the state Legislature.  The House Jobs and Economic Development Committee heaped praise on the concept before endorsing the bill Thursday.
 
Mayo says it will invest billions in a substantial development plan if the state commits to defraying some public infrastructure costs.  And Representative Greg Davids says the expansion should have a positive impact on Winona State University which offers nursing programs and other programs in Rochester.
      
Mayo officials propose diverting a slice of future tax revenue to pay for more than $500 million in upgrade costs. Officials insist the money wouldn't directly feed construction at the clinic itself.