LAWMAKERS PREDICT SESSION ACTIVITY

Minnesota Senate District 4 lawmakers predicted the legislative session that begins next week will concentrate on money and the apparent lack of it to spend. Last November's economic forecast indicated a $373-Million shortfall in tax revenue. State ecnomist Tom Stinson said this week he expects the forecast later this month to be worse. Bemidji State Senator Mary Olson said the economy and education will be the top issues during the upcoming bonding session. She told the Lake Country Echo that her party's version of the bonding bill will try to stimulate the economy. Olson said rather than call it a bonding bill, DFLers will call it a jobs bill. Walker State Representative Larry Howes said the budget will be on lawmakers minds and no doubt the minds of voters as well. Howes said the nation is not technically in a recession, and if people see a bargain and don't spend the money, a recession will happen. The second half of the legislative session begins on Tuesday, February 12th.