Minnesota Gov Walz, DFL Leaders Propose Oct 6 Special Session on Guns, School Safety Amid GOP Opposition

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and DFL legislative leaders have proposed a special session from October 6 to 12 focused on gun violence and school safety, including bans on assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and binary triggers, alongside funding for mental health and school security. The proposal, aiming to meet public demand for action following the Annunciation Catholic Church shooting, emphasizes bipartisan cooperation but has not been signed by Republican leaders, who accuse Democrats of excluding their input. DFL leaders express disappointment at the Republican resistance and stress the importance of addressing gun violence comprehensively to protect Minnesotans. The special session's agenda limits legislative debate to specific bills and appropriations, with a budget cap of $20 million per biennium and final language to be agreed upon by the governor and legislative leaders. Republicans have criticized the process for bypassing regular committee scrutiny and have proposed alternative parameters, which Democrats reportedly rejected. The political stalemate highlights deep divisions over gun policy despite public calls for effective measures to enhance public safety in Minnesota.