Minnesota Faces Special Session as Budget Deadline Looms

Minnesota lawmakers are facing the likelihood of a special session to finalize the state’s two-year budget, as negotiations between Governor Tim Walz, the DFL-controlled Senate, and a tied House have stalled just days before the May 19 deadline. Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy and House DFL Leader Melissa Hortman both indicated that a special session is almost inevitable, reflecting recent legislative gridlock. The failure to reach a budget deal could result in extra taxpayer costs and raises the risk of a government shutdown if no budget is passed by July 1. Ongoing wildfires in northern Minnesota are putting additional pressure on state resources and legislative timelines. Similarly, Rhode Island lawmakers may call a special session in the fall due to unpredictable federal funding, with leaders warning of possible tax hikes or program cuts. These developments underscore the increasing difficulty legislatures face in passing budgets on time amid political divisions and external crises.