Wintry mix spreads across Minnesota

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There are just two weeks left in the Minnesota legislative session. On key issues, here's a look at what's done and what's still on the table at the state Capitol. 

. The legislation would prop up the individual insurance market by creating a reinsurance program to help insurers cover expensive medical claims. Lawmakers also adopted 25 percent discounts for many MNsure policy purchasers.

. Shopping for wine, beer and liquor on Sundays will be allowed in Minnesota starting in July.

High-level negotiations continue on the state budget.

Legislative leaders, key staff members and Gov. Mark Dayton met for several hours Friday and Saturday, trying to cut a deal on the total amount the state will spend over the next two years and on what types of things. They're also talking through a package of tax cuts, both in size and the recipients of that relief.

Dayton said Sunday the six-hours of deliberations Saturday were cordial and involved line-by-line discussions. Though he said the sides are still "a ways apart," he was optimistic about getting to an agreement. Top Republicans have also been upbeat.

Other unsettled issues at the Legislature include: 

. The issue is important because Minnesotans will soon need an ID that meets the federal standard to board a commercial flight. The main sticking point is unauthorized immigrants and whether the language of the bill should explicitly prohibit their ability to one day obtain drivers licenses. The House bill would make the existing rule that prohibits such licences a law. The Senate bill does not.

 They prohibit local governments from setting their own wage rules and sick time ordinances. Differing versions have passed the House and Senate. Dayton is getting pressure to veto any legislation that reaches him. 

. In March, gun rights supporters and gun control advocates debated two bills at the Capitol. One would eliminate the state's permit-to-carry requirement and the other would expand a person's right to use deadly force in self-defense. A pair of bills await House floor action; no Senate bills have advanced.

. The Minnesota House and Senate voted to ban state-funded abortions and to establish new licensing and inspection requirements for abortion clinics. Dayton has promised to veto both bills when they reach his desk. 

. Language requiring an opt-in for sharing information was left out of a compromise budget bill, but top lawmakers say it's still under consideration this year.

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Brian Bakst

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Deals have been reached on health insurance premium relief and Sunday liquor sales. But a major issue remains unresolved: the state budget.

The Minnesota Legislature has been in session now for a full four months, and there's just two weeks left. If you haven't been hanging on every twist and turn, don't worry.  MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke with Minnesota Public Radio News State Capitol reporter Brian Bakst to get a refresher on what's gotten done and what's still on the table.

2 weeks to go: What's done, what's still on the table at the state Capitol

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