ST. PAUL, Minn. (KFGO/WCCO) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has proposed a special session to address gun violence.
The governor, along with Democratic leaders, is putting out a detailed plan for how to do that – but they don’t have Republican support yet.
The special session would be held on Monday Oct. 6 at the State Capitol.
“This proposal meets the expectations that Minnesotans have for their elected leaders – that we respond to threats to public safety and take direct action on guns,” said Walz. “We will not let this issue simply go away. Our offer addresses mental health, school safety, support for law enforcement, and most importantly, common sense gun laws.”
Democratic leaders have signed on to the proposal, but – as of yet – no Republican leaders have done so.
Walz says the activity of the special session will be confined to certain policies including an assault weapon and high capacity magazine ban, a ban on binary triggers as well as plans to eliminate the ghost gun loophole. It also invests money in school security and mental health resources which is something that Republican leaders had wanted, even as they’ve been resistant to the bans proposed by Walz.
“In the wake of an unspeakable tragedy, DFL leaders have come to the table with a substantial list of proposals to make Minnesota a safer place,” said Senate Democratic Leader Erin Murphy. “I’m disappointed Republicans refuse to address the issue of gun violence in any real way. Minnesotans want a comprehensive approach, which should include funding for school safety and mental health access, as well as taking action to limit the easy access to weapons of war on our streets. We are ready to make significant progress, but cannot do that without Republicans showing courage on this issue. Parents from Annunciation, other schools, and Minnesotans around the state are demanding that we do something, and so far only one side is listening to them.”
Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson and House Speaker Lisa Demuth have yet to sign the agreement. Johnson released a statement after the Walz announcement.
“If Governor Walz wants a special session, which only he can do, Senate Republicans will be there to do the important work to keep our kids and communities safe,” says Johnson. “Minnesotans deserve better than slogans and press conferences, they need solutions. Democrats and Governor Walz are avoiding the regular committee process that invites public scrutiny and stakeholder input. Only through the full legislative process can Minnesotans truly have a voice and a seat at the table, ensuring their will and not backroom deals, shapes our public policy.”
Republican leaders have scheduled a press conference for 1:30 p.m. Wednesday.
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