July 7 - Senate Special Session Sine Die

I thought I had missed the end of the special session when I traveled to Iceland to photograph the volcano. But the Senate had not adjourned sine die while the House adjourned sine die early on July 1 after passing the $52 billon state budget. The Senate had decided to wait for Gov. Tim Walz to sign the budget agreement and then take up the confirmation of commissioners. Senate members trickled into their chamber for the days floor session to approve two of Gov. Walz’s commissioners. However, DFL Minority Leader Susan Kent moved to adjourn sine die instead of taking any other commissioner votes. The motion to adjourn was in protest over the ousting of PCA commissioner Laura Bishop who resigned minutes before a committee hearing the day before and a sure rejection vote by the Senate. The Senate Republican majority approved the minority motion to adjourn sine die on a 42-18 vote. It was a most unusual ending to the special session.

Sen. Gary Dahms, left, Sen. David Senjem, center, and Sen. Steve Cwodzinski, right, talk prior to the start of the Senate’s floor session.

Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka moves a recess of the Senate to caucus with his Republican members.

Sen. Nick Frentz, right, talks with Gov. Tim Walz, left, after Gov. Walz addressed the Senate DFL caucus during a recess of the Senate.

Sen. John Marty, right, confers with Minority Leader Susan Kent as members debate Sen. Kent’s motion to adjourn sine die.

Senate Minority Leaders Susan Kent speaks to her motion to adjourn sine die and end the special session..

Sen. Torrey Westrom, left, and Sen. Bill Ingebrightsen, right, listen as Minority Leader Susan Kent speaks to her motion to adjourn sine die.

Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka meets with reporters in the well of the Senate.

Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka leaves the Senate chamber after meeting with reporters. The Senate voted 42-18 to adjourn sine die and end the special session.