Magnuson warns about more budget cuts for courts

Chief Justice Magnuson
Chief Justice Eric Magnuson of the Minnesota Supreme Court.
MPR Photo/Bob Kelleher

The chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court says he's concerned that any additional budget cuts will hurt the state's courts.

Chief Justice Eric Magnuson spoke with reporters Tuesday after giving a speech to a group that calls for open government. Magnuson said the courts, like most other government agencies, have already seen significant budget cuts. He said any additional cuts this year would be a problem.

"We're running a really big engine right with almost no oil in the crankcase," said Magnuson. "Things are going to start to break down if we get a significant cut in this legislative session, or in the next biennium."

Magnuson, who is stepping down from the court in June, wouldn't comment on when the court will rule on a case that challenges Gov. Pawlenty's authority to unilaterally cut spending. The Supreme Court heard arguments in the case Monday.

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