Gazelka Frustrated

State Senator Paul Gazelka says he is frustrated a budget deal was not reached between the Governor and Republican legislative leaders to avoid a shutdown.

The Brainerd Republican says he does not know how long the shutdown will last, but is optimistic it will be settled within 30 days.  He says union contracts will be impacted after mid month, and the governor will be hearing from them.

The Health and Social Services portion of the budget has created the biggest area of disagreement.  The Governor wants to raise taxes on the wealthiest Minnesotans to avoid harsh impacts on students and vulnerable adults. 

The Republicans say no new taxes of any kind, and suggest a longer waiting period for those moving to Minnesota requesting welfare benefits, and block grants to welfare agencies requiring them to find a more efficient way to spend it.