Minnesota GOP Ask Governor For Special Session

ST. PAUL (AP) - Top Republican lawmakers are urging Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton to call a special session to avoid a government shutdown, even though the two sides remain stalemated on the budget.

Dayton has sole power to convene a special session, but he has repeatedly said he won't do so until he and GOP lawmakers reach an overall budget deal.

House Speaker Kurt Zellers said Monday that it's time for Dayton to call the Legislature back. Senate Majority Leader Amy Koch says lawmakers could start by voting on budgets for roads and other consensus areas.

Spokeswoman Katie Tinucci says Dayton is waiting for Republicans to offer a compromise.

Much of state government will shut down starting July 1 if lawmakers and the governor don't pass a new state budget.