Legal Fight Over Senate Building Takes New Turn

ST. PAUL (AP) - A legal fight threatening to hold up construction of a new building for Minnesota state senators has taken a new turn.

A former state lawmaker suing to block the building failed Tuesday to meet a deadline for posting an $11 million surety bond. That bond would protect taxpayers from losses from delays if ex-Rep. Jim Knoblach doesn't prevail. The Court of Appeals intends to dismiss the case without a financial guarantee.

Knoblach's attorney, Erick Kaardal, told The Associated Press that he will file an appeal with the state Supreme Court on Wednesday.

Officials hope to break ground in July across from the Capitol. The building is projected to cost $90 million, with taxpayers covering all but $13 million.

The lawsuit is the last barrier to construction.