Vikings’ Bill Nearing Debut At Minn. Capitol?

ST. PAUL (AP) - A Republican lawmaker who plans to sponsor Minnesota Vikings stadium legislation says most pieces of the bill are in place.

But Sen. Julie Rosen said Tuesday she hadn't settled on a day to introduce the bill nor would she discuss aspects of it ahead of time.

Stadium talk is increasing at Minnesota's Capitol. Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton mentioned the stadium push at a labor union rally. He told reporters later that a stadium financing plan is "a separate consideration" from debate over a state budget deficit, and the two discussions could occur simultaneously.

He says a stadium could help an ailing construction sector. To pay for it, Dayton says he would consider surcharges on stadium tickets, merchandise and concessions. He also raised the idea of hotel and car rental charges.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)