Senate Begins Debate on Omnibus Supplmental Funding Bill

The Minnesota Senate began a marathon floor debate on the omnibus supplemental appropriations bill. The finance package adjusts state budgets in all areas and funds several new initiatives, including programs to improve school safety, combat opioid addiction, fix the state's auto licensing and registration system, fund efforts to reduce elder abuse, and support rural housing development.

Senate Finance Chair Julie Rosen, R-Vernon Center, said the bill is "a modest spending proposal that mirrors the modest budget surplus identified in the February forecast. Decisions were made on initiative and priorities accordingly." Rosen said the bill addresses critical issues, including addressing school safety, mental health improvement, fixing the state's auto licensing and registration system.

Senator John Marty, DFL - Roseville, criticized the bill for its wide-ranging scope covering many areas of state government. He said the constitution requires bills cover a single subject, and he offered a new title to the bill, "A bill for an act relating to practically anything and everything..."

Rosen defended the scope of the bill, explaining that it has been a standard procedure used in previous sessions.