Minnesota GOP leaders: Tax deal could have been struck

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota legislative Republicans say a set of controversial new taxes could have been repealed if lawmakers searched hard enough for savings in the state budget.

The minority caucus leaders disputed Wednesday that they held out for too much in negotiations over a special session that will now be limited to approving aid for storm damage. High-level discussions over repealing some new taxes, particularly one on farm equipment repairs, fell apart.

Republican Rep. Kurt Daudt says he had doubts about a pot of money Democrats pinpointed to pay for the repeal. Republicans wanted a broader slate of eliminated taxes but that debate will now wait until next year’s regular session.

Democrats say it was up to Republicans to propose budget alternatives. The GOP leaders say reduced spending is the answer.