For the second day in a row, Senate Republicans took steps to continue funding government operations in the event of an impending shutdown. For the second day in a row, the DFL majority prevented this common sense measure. Minnesotans are once again left in a precarious position with only four days left before the constitutionally mandated budget deadline.

Senate Republicans moved today to avoid a costly government shutdown and fund state government at the current level while budget negotiations continue between Gov. Dayton and legislative leaders. With no agreement reached and only five days remaining until the constitutional deadline, it is unlikely an agreement will be reached in time to enact a budget.

Sen. Sean Nienow moved for immediate consideration of SF 2144 to fund state government at current levels in order to avoid a state government shutdown. The bill was introduced and referred to the State and Local Government Committee.

“Republicans do not want the people of Minnesota to suffer through another government shutdown,” said Sen. Nienow. “This bill will take the political pressure off the negotiators and keep government running while our leaders work out the best deal possible for the State of Minnesota.”

“It was troubling to read Senate Majority Leader Bakk’s comments in the paper today about how a shutdown will affect Republicans and Democrats in the elections,” added Senate Minority Leader David Hann. “We should be looking out for the people of Minnesota and not concerned with the political ramifications of our actions.”