ST. PAUL, Minn. - With the memory of a 3-week government shutdown still stinging like an open wound, lawmakers will descend on St. Paul Tuesday for the start of the 2012 legislative session.
Lawmakers say they are committed to working together, and getting Minnesotans back to work.
A new Vikings stadium is expected to dominate this year's session. Governor Mark Dayton said Monday that, in order for a bill to pass this session, it has to be at the current Metrodome site. The Vikings have maintained that they prefer a site in Arden Hills.
The bonding bill, which funds public projects, is also a main focus. Governor Dayton has proposed borrowing $775 million to fund projects ranging from a new St. Paul Saints stadium to upgrades to
Nicollet Mall.
Republicans also look to bypass Governor Dayton by getting more constitutional amendments on the ballot in November. Voters will already vote on an amendment passed last session to define marriage as between a man and woman. Political expert David Schultz says he expects Republicans to push for other constitutional amendments, including one to require voters in Minnesota to show a photo ID when they vote.
The 2012 session must be wrapped up by April 30th.
(Copyright 2012 by KARE. All Rights Reserved.)