Minn. lawmakers take 2010 session to limit
Published 8:09 am Sunday, May 16, 2010
The Minnesota Legislature has sent Gov. Tim Pawlenty a $3 billion deficit fix without his agreement.
The bill passed the Senate 46-21 after clearing the House 82-49 early Sunday.
The Republican governor is expected to veto the bill because it includes a controversial health care initiative for the poor relying on federal money and federal Medicaid rules.
Pawlenty and lawmakers are up against a midnight deadline for final action.
If there is no budget deal, they face the prospect of a special session and an unprecedented cash crunch for Minnesota.
Democratic House Majority Leader Tony Sertich (SIR’-tich) says legislative leaders are open to more negotiations with Pawlenty.