Governor Tim Walz and Democratic lawmakers are calling for public negotiations to try to break a stalemate with Republicans over an insulin assistance program. Walz said Monday, “I hope this is not the case, but it feels a bit like running out the clock ’til we get to the regular session.” The two sides reportedly agreed earlier that insulin manufacturers should participate, but Democratic Representative Michael Howard says in the latest closed-door meetings, “Some of the conversation does make we wonder if the Senate Republicans want to stick to those… principles.”
Republican Senator Eric Pratt responds earlier public hearings did not produce agreement but the current working group is “making good progress on key issues.” Pratt is calling for another closed-door meeting this week.