Dayton says he's awaiting budget bills
Minnesota News-- Republicans who took control of the Minnesota Legislature in last year’s election constantly have said they are moving quicker than previous lawmakers. And while they did pass initial budget bills earlier than normal, the question now is when there will be a deal with Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton.
By: Don Davis, Pierce County Herald
ST. PAUL - Republicans who took control of the Minnesota Legislature in last year’s election constantly have said they are moving quicker than previous lawmakers.
And while they did pass initial budget bills earlier than normal, the question now is when there will be a deal with Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton.
“I don’t have them,” the governor said Friday about spending bills that are being negotiated between the House and Senate.
“I’m available,” he said.
Dayton refuses to negotiate with legislative leaders until they work out differences between House and Senate budget plans.
The governor reminded reporters that he unveiled his budget proposal on Feb. 15. “Where’s theirs?”
“We all share the same constitutional obligation,” he reminded lawmakers about balancing the state budget.
Dayton’s stance befuddles Republicans.
“We are looking for some agreement, we are looking for some engagement,” Senate Majority Leader Amy Koch, R-Buffalo, said. “What we really need is for the governor to get engaged.”
Even as they ask Dayton to talk budget specifics, House and Senate leaders have not told their budget negotiators how much they can spend in each area of state government. Until then, negotiators cannot wrap up their bills.
Rep. Mary Liz Holberg, R-Lakeville, said that she and other legislative leaders are waiting for Dayton to set those budget targets, but they likely will come in the coming days even if Dayton does not get involved.
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