ST. PAUL — Two Minnesota lawmakers cited for making out in a public park have apologized to the ranger whom they accused of lying about the incident.

The apologies Monday from Republican Reps. Tara Mack and Tim Kelly came after House Democrats called on them to apologize to the Dakota County park ranger who issued the Aug. 25 citation. Mack and Kelly had said the ranger’s account of their intimate encounter was a lie and initially vowed to file a complaint.

Democrats said their decision to pay fines was an admission of guilt.

Kelly and Mack apologized in separate statements Monday. Kelly says he’s disappointed in himself for how he handled his disagreement with the ranger.

The lawmakers have agreed to leave a House ethics panel pending a potential complaint against them.