House Passes Bill to Extend Benefits for Iron Range Workers

ST. PAUL - The Minnesota House of Representatives has passed a measure that would extend unemployment benefits for laid-off Iron Range workers, but relief is not coming just yet.

The bill that passed on a 104-25 vote includes tax breaks for the state's businesses, further prolonging a debate between the Republican-controlled House and the Democratic majority in the Senate.

Republicans say tax credits for businesses that pay into the state's unemployment fund are needed quickly. Democrats say they agree but argue they should not be tethered to unemployment benefits.

A final compromise will likely be ironed out in a joint committee of both chambers.

Gov. Mark Dayton said earlier this week he will begrudgingly sign a bill that reaches his desk as long as it includes 26 weeks of additional benefits.