Governor Tim Walz (DFL) is welcoming lawmakers back to the State Capitol for the start of the 2024 session. The governor was out to make friends early on by handing out treats as they made their way into the chambers.
Issues being considered this session include wage and benefits for Lyft and Uber drivers, the Equal Rights Amendment and a potential ban on assault weapons in the state.
Governor Walz says his mission Monday was to show his support for both sides of the aisle.
"The legislature it's will, we'll work with them," says Walz. "My biggest focus is through these historic changes to make life better for Minnesotans. Need to continue to move forward at the State Capitol."
There's some early drama however.
Minnesota Republicans are taking issue with Democrats over a bill that got a hearing before the session started.
The End of Life Bill would allow doctors to help a patient end his or her life if they are suffering from a terminal illness.
Can tell you that we really haven't heard from Minnesotans, this being their top priority," says Republican House Minority Leader Lisa Demuth (Cold Spring). "Minnesotans are more concerned about fixes, that would be affording gas, knowing that the majority raised taxes on gas. Minnesotans are concerned about being safe in their communities."
Another controversial issue is the School Resource Officer Bill that caused a lot of trouble last year, with police departments and school district officials worried about the legal ramification of some of the language in the bill.
There's a hearing planned for Monday afternoon and there's been calls on both sides of the aisle to clarify the bill so law enforcement has a better understanding of what is allowed, or not allowed, under the new law.
See more of WCCO's legislative session preview here.
