Minnesota state employee unions reach tentative contract agreements

The unions that represent thousands of Minnesota state employees say they have reached contract agreements that give workers 3 percent raises for each of the next two years.

The Minnesota Association of Professional Employees says it has made a tentative contract agreement with Gov. Mark Dayton's administration. The union represents 13,000 state employees.

Under the agreement, state workers will have to pay more in health care premiums, but the union says it feels the tentative contract is fair. Members will vote on the proposal within the next six weeks.

Another union that represents state workers -- the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 5 -- says its negotiating team unanimously recommends support for the proposed contract. AFSME delegates will vote on the agreement July 26.

The current contracts expire Sunday.