Dayton, Lawmakers Expected To Decide On Special Session This Week

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Governor Mark Dayton and Minnesota lawmakers are expected to decide this week whether to call a special session.

They want to extend jobless benefits for workers on the Iron Range.

In 2015, about 2,000 steelworkers were laid off during some point. Since that time, about 670 mining-related workers have seen their unemployment benefits expire. That number is expected to exceed 1,000 by the time lawmakers convene in March.

Senator Amy Klobuchar said the layoffs are due to the over-production of steel in countries like China and Australia.

As of now, there is no sign the mines will open again soon.