No Budget Talks In Minn. On Day 7 Of Shutdown

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The weeklong shutdown of Minnesota's government stems from a deep conflict about the state's tradition of generous public assistance programs.

Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton says the state's long practice of caring for the vulnerable is at risk in the budget dispute that led to the shutdown. Republicans who control the Legislature say that safety net has been fueled by high taxes that stifle job growth.

The two sides had no overall budget talks scheduled Thursday. Dayton and Republican legislative leaders met with others Thursday morning to discuss funding and policy for public schools, but House Speaker Kurt Zellers says they didn't discuss the overall budget picture.

The education meeting came a day after Dayton and top lawmakers met without making headway on resolving their long-running dispute over spending and taxes.

Even Dayton's allies agree the state spends generously. But they say that's led to decades of high test scores, strong incomes and a desirable quality of life. Republicans say the state can no longer afford to be known as a place where newcomers have fast, long-term access to a long menu of benefits.

Dayton's latest offer asks Republicans to choose between a temporary income tax hike for top earners or a $1-a-pack cigarette tax increase. They reject both options.

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