A Statement from Governor Pawlenty on the Issue of a Special Legislative Session

A STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR PAWLENTY ON THE ISSUE OF A SPECIAL LEGISLATIVE SESSION-June 8, 2004

Saint Paul - The following is a statement from Governor Tim Pawlenty on today's developments concerning a special session:

"The Senate DFL Leadership appears to have reverted to failed negotiation proposals from three months ago. We were hoping for progress, but clearly it isn't happening.

As a result, we continue to suggest a special session dealing with only consensus items. We hope the Senate DFL could at least agree to that.

As for the important issue of a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman, I remain committed to this issue. I am proud to have been the co-author of our current statutory law that defines marriage in this manner.

Unfortunately, the Democrats in the Minnesota Senate refused to hear the issue on the Senate floor during the nearly 5 month legislative session that just ended. They continue to refuse to consider the issue as part of an agreed upon special session, as well. Be assured, I will not allow an attack on the definition of traditional marriage without demanding legislative action for a constitutional amendment at some point in the near future.