Dayton Agrees To Meet On Cabinet Raises But Won't Testify

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Mark Dayton says he's willing to discuss raises he awarded state agency commissioners in a meeting with lawmakers that is open to the media, but he won't testify before a House panel.

Dayton declined an invitation to address the House State Government Finance Committee in an upcoming hearing about big raises for members of his cabinet. He said Tuesday he'd host a meeting if lawmakers wish. Governors seldom testify at legislative hearings.

Dayton bumped commissioner-level pay by a total of $928,000. Some commissioners received raises of more than $30,000. The Democratic governor said his goal was to make the positions more competitive with similar roles elsewhere.

Dayton argues some legislative aides have received big raises since Republicans took the majority, including House Speaker Kurt Daudt's top aide.