Governor Dayton Ends Fight Over State Auditor Role, Issues Remain

Governor Mark Dayton announced Monday, June 8, that he is suspending his efforts to repeal the new law allowing county officials to choose private accounting firms for their budget audits. However, before he calls a special session, Dayton said he and the legislative leaders need to resolve three remaining issues.

One issue, Dayton explained, is funding programs that help employ Minnesotans with disabilities and help prevent people with mental illness from becoming homeless. Another issue, according to Dayton, is the protection of cost savings for energy customers who choose to use wind or solar energy to power their homes or businesses. The third issue Dayton underscored for resolution is the tightening of language that offers energy savings to the taconite and forest products industries in Northeastern Minnesota. Dayton expressed concern that the lower electric rates would apply to other businesses without regard to job retention or competitive needs.

Governor Dayton said he believes a special session could be called by the end of the week. He hopes the legislature is willing to include other issues, such as expanding broadband access; additional funding for housing offenders in the Minnesota Sex Offender Program; expanding rail safety projects; and allowing the city of Rochester to use local sales taxes to aid Mayo Clinic’s expansion project.