Typically the 2nd year of a legislative cycle is called the
bonding year. This is when the state approves a wide range of infrastructure projects that are paid for with bonds, sold on the markets. Bonding bills are also often referred to as "the state credit card". This funding can only be used for infrastructure projects such as buildings, roads and bridges,not for ongoing programming.
Passage of bonding bills requires two-thirds support in both bodies so there is a need for bipartisan support to get them through. Governor Dayton has submitted his proposal of projects - totaling nearly $1.5 billion. Many GOP legislators are wary of spending too much on bonding this year, so the balancing act becomes: how big can you make it in order to gain enough DFL votes, while also keeping enough GOP votes? The House and Senate will each release proposed bills later this session.
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