ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota legislators are arriving at a self-imposed budget deadline.

Friday was the day the Republicans who lead the Legislature wanted all budget bills to move through finance-oriented committees. Some committees are bumping up against the deadline.

The budget-setting task is made more difficult this year by a projected $5 billion deficit for the next two years. Republicans say they set early deadlines to avoid the typical end-of-session logjam.

Democrats have been critical of what they see as a rushed process on decisions of consequence.

The real backdrop for getting a budget done on time is months off. Session is due to end by May 23 and the next fiscal year begins July 1.

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