House DFL leader also downgrades governor's budget proposal

House Majority Leader Tony Sertich, DFL-Chisholm, today (May 11)
called the items Gov. Tim Pawlenty included in his letter to
legislative leaders "a compromise in words only.?

by T.W. Budig
ECM Capitol Reporter

House Majority Leader Tony Sertich, DFL-Chisholm, today (May 11)
called the items Gov. Tim Pawlenty included in his letter to
legislative leaders "a compromise in words only.?

He opined the governor failed to address key factors in the state budget.
The DFL House intended to pass all of its budget bills by tomorrow, the latest Wednesday, he said.
"I'm not sure the governor is going to veto any of the bills,? said Sertich.

Sertich indicated that a step forward in talks with the governor
would be a proposal from Pawlenty to cut the state budget even deeper.

The leader also indicated that the House is flexible in terms of
gathering new revenue ? fee increases, for instance, could be one route.

"I think it's a sign of a lack of compromise,? said Sertich of a special session, if one comes to pass.

Sertich left it to the public to assign the blame, if they want, for a special session if one comes.