The Minnesota Legislative Session reconvenes to pass a bonding bill on March 8th, and many are saying it will be a short session. But will the objectives of the minority caucuses in both houses prolong the session? Do the votes of the minority matter? In Minnesota a “super majority” is needed in both houses to pass a bonding bill, meaning the votes of the minority matter more than ever.
In interviews with Alpha News, it appeared that the objectives of both minority leaders could prolong session unless they find common ground. Both leaders would like to see tax reforms in the upcoming session, but Senate Minority Leader Senator David Hann would ideally like to see no session at all. The leaders disagreed on several objectives including higher education spending. House Minority Leader Representative Paul Thissen wants to push for campaign finance reform, legislative reform, and workforce causes.
Neither leader had heard whether or not a special session will be called prior to the regular session, but lawmakers will for sure be back in St Paul on March 8th. The length of time they will be meeting for will depend on a number of factors, including whether or not a deal can be struck between the different factions.
