Thissen: DFL Would Supply Votes For Mega-Transportation Plan
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The top Minnesota House Democrat says it will take a long-term transportation funding plan with new revenue to win support from his side of the political aisle.
Rep. Paul Thissen told reporters Friday that an initial proposal majority House Republicans have put on the table is "not adequate" for addressing the state's road, bridge and mass transit needs. House GOP leaders have said their four-year, $750 million proposal is just a starting point.
Senate Democrats, meanwhile, propose adding between $800 million and $1.1 billion to the system each year with an array of new taxes and fees.
Thissen says minority House Democrats would supply "proportionate" votes for a comprehensive, statewide plan that most likely includes new taxes. But that would also require more than six Republicans to sign on.
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