In the late hours of Sunday night, the legislative session came to a close. About 30 minutes before adjournment, Senate Democrats brought forward a mega-omnibus tax bill comprised of 8 other unassociated omnibus bills and several other unrelated individual provisions. The Senate President did not entertain debate or questions from Republican senators.

Senator Eric Pratt (R-Prior Lake) released the following statement in response:

“Minnesotans sent every one of us to the Capitol to be their voice – they expect the legislature to thoroughly debate things that will directly impact families, communities, and small businesses. Senate Democrats blocked every Senator from doing that job. Their actions undermined the democratic process and failed Minnesota.

In the last 30 minutes of Session, we were asked to vote on a 1400+ page bill that we had not seen. It was not made available to us in any way, and Republicans were ignored when we raised concerns. Senate Democrats hold a one-seat majority, which means their actions disenfranchised 49% of Minnesotans. 

Their antics undermined the integrity of the institution and signaled a fundamental breakdown in the democratic process. This is no way to govern, and Minnesota deserves better. They must be held accountable for the egregious abuse of power that was on full display in those final minutes of session.”