Dayton Seeks To End Special Session Speculation Next Week

ST. PAUL- Gov. Mark Dayton is giving lawmakers a deadline to decide on a special session.
The Democratic governor first floated the idea of extending unemployment benefits for laid-off steelworkers in November but not all legislators have signed off. Economic disparities for black residents and upgrades for driver's licenses are also on the docket.

Dayton said Thursday he's asked legislative leaders for a final decision by next Friday. Top House and Senate lawmakers plan to start wading through the issues on the agenda starting next week.

Dayton says a special session would need to happen by the third week of January. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk's spokeswoman says he supports a late January session. A spokeswoman for House Speaker Kurt Daudt did not immediately return an email seeking comment.