Override: What does it mean?

I'm sure you know by now that the Legislature has voted to override Gov. Pawlenty's veto of a bill that spends $6.6 billion on transportation over the next ten years.

Clearly the override means that the gas tax, metro sales tax and license tab fees are going up. In exchange, there will be increased investment in roads, bridges and transit. But what does it mean for the future of the legislative session?

Can lawmakers and Governor Pawlenty put this behind them and work together to balance the budget?

Will Democrats and Republicans in the House put the vote behind them and work together or will the veto override showdown sour the atmosphere?

What’s next for the six Republicans who voted for the override? There’s word that some of their committee assignments and staff are being taken away. Some (see Ron Erhardt) already have challengers for the GOP endorsement. Are others to come? Does it matter?

What does this mean for the vulnerable DFLers in the Minnesota House? Are they more vulnerable in November because of this vote?

Discuss….

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