Dayton Hopeful Deals Can Be Reached As Session Nears End

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Mark Dayton says he's hopeful top state lawmakers can come together on key issues in the waning days of the legislative session even though a transportation funding package remains uncertain.

The Democratic governor, Republican House Speaker Kurt Daudt and Democratic Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk have been meeting in private to try for deals on tax cuts, public construction, a supplemental budget and transportation.

Dayton spoke on Minnesota Public Radio on Thursday. He said leaders are close enough to agreements on three major issues that he thinks they can be reached in time. But he says transportation proposals by House Republicans would not provide enough new revenue for repairs to roads and bridges.

The Legislature must adjourn by Monday.