Minn. Lawmakers Enter Homestretch Of 2013 Session

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Minnesota lawmakers are bearing down for the legislative session's homestretch.

Monday marks one week until the mandatory adjournment deadline. Much is left to do.

The House and Senate still need to pass compromise bills to comprise the state's next two year budget. Along the way, they are likely to pass tax increases on top earners and smokers. An alcohol tax increase is also in play as are revisions to the state sales tax.

On the spending side, the budget is likely to feature new dollars for education, including funds to help schools provide all-day kindergarten statewide.

The week was to start with another high-profile issue at the forefront. The Senate was voting Monday on whether to send a bill legalizing gay marriage to a supportive Gov. Mark Dayton.

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