Repubs, Dems trying to get deal on police reforms, bonding bill before special session begins Mon

A core group of Republican and Democratic lawmakers is at the State Capitol this weekend, trying to reach a deal on police reforms and a bonding bill before this year’s second special session begins Monday. Democrats want much more wide-ranging police reform measures than Republicans, and one of the lead negotiators said Friday night he was uncertain whether the two sides can get agreement before the special session begins. And House Republican leaders have said they won’t help pass a bonding bill for state public works projects unless Governor Tim Walz relinquishes his COVID emergency authority. Senate Democratic leaders meanwhile say *they* won’t help pass a bonding bill unless Republicans agree to significant police reform.