Expect sharp debate on the Minnesota Senate floor today over a bill that backers say stops the imminent release of hundreds of sex offenders committed to the state Sex Offender Program in Saint Peter after serving their prison terms. In 2015 a federal judge ruled the program unconstitutional and ordered changes, but the federal appeals court reversed that ruling and the U-S Supreme Court refused to hear the case. State Senator Warren Limmer says that leaves in question whether sex offenders judged at high risk of re-offending might be released.
This afternoon in the Minnesota House, debate on a bill that would change the sulfate pollution standard for Minnesota waters, prompted by the push for copper-nickel mines in northern Minnesota. Lawmakers also expect this week details on Governor Mark Dayton’s proposed new rule on application of nitrogen fertilizer to farm fields. The House passed a bill to override it, which Dayton warned he’ll veto.