St Paul Pioneer Press reports on legislative expectations for 2021…

From his perch as potential dealmaker in the Senate’s independent caucus, Bakk said he will push a public construction plan to pay for maintenance and repairs to state buildings. Such a “bonding bill,” which he said could easily top $250 million, might provide fertile ground for horse trading to resolve disagreements over budget priorities. Bakk also said he’ll push for a $120 million plan to improve broadband internet service for those with inadequate options for modern needs.

One wild card: How will the new Congress — and the new White House — approach COVID relief? If they enact additional large spending plans, the pressure will be off state lawmakers to act, although Gazelka is angling to have state lawmakers gain oversight of any such funds. But if Congress fails to act and Minnesotans in economically vulnerable areas continue to be hammered, the situation might change.

In the end, the basic dynamic of the session will probably be this: Democrats will be trying to enact changes, while Republicans will be trying to stop them.