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ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — A combative Gov. Mark Dayton isn't backing away from a veto threat over an education bill that leaves out his preschool expansion plan, saying lawmakers should prepare for a special session.
Dayton drove home his point Sunday after meeting with Democratic and Republican legislative leaders about his demand they add money for half-day preschool for 4-year-olds statewide.
The regular session must end Monday and the Capitol renovation is encroaching on meeting space a day later. Dayton says lawmakers can meet outside in lawn chairs and under a tent if need be.
Dayton focused blame on majority House Republicans, although Senate Democrats are party to a deal that omitted the pre-kindergarten money. The Democratic governor says a special session would spotlight the choice between young learners and tax cuts given that lawmakers want to leave $1 billion to consider breaks next year.
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