6. State legislators plate is full

The 2012 Minnesota legislative session carries a lot of weight.

State lawmakers will be tasked with passing a bonding bill, making a decision about a Vikings stadium, further reducing the state’s spending and, for some, campaigning.

The state bonding bill could mean big things for Austin as the local Port Authority is requesting $13.5 million for an expansion of The Hormel Institute. Rep. Jeanne Poppe, DFL-Austin, said the bill could include flood mitigation funding for the area, as well.

Poppe said there has been talk among Republicans about trying to pass a constitutional amendment for the right to work, making Minnesota a non-union state.

“I think a much lesser priority is whether we go to the voters to add a constitutional amendment,” Poppe said.

She said she is hoping lawmakers will focus on the bonding bill and finding further ways to reduce government spending.