Some state employee layoffs could start July 1 if legislators fail to pass budget

Some state employees began receiving notices Tuesday that they could be laid off in 30 days if state legislators fail to pass a budget.

Notices from the Minnesota Management and Budget office state that while "we expected the Legislature to agree to a biennial budget before July 1, we must follow the requirements of our labor contracts and complensation plans."

The notices address different classifications of state employees in the event of a shutdown.

"This past year has been unbelievably challenging, and I’m sorry that the budget situation at the Legislature causes additional stress and uncertainty," Gov. Tim Walz said in a separate letter. "I will continue to do everything I can to reach a balanced budget agreement in time to avert a shutdown."

Walz said he does "expect that the Legislature will agree to a budget soon."

A budget agreement came in too late to finish by the time the legislative session ended last month. This means the remaining work is expected to take place during a special session this month.

Lawmakers reach budget agreement, special session expected in June

Lawmakers have until June 30 to agree to a budget to avoid a shutdown.