Minn. leaders expect to see a modest budget surplus Friday

State political leaders gearing up for a contentious budget battle at the Capitol next year expect a modest surplus to be reported Friday, when budget officials unveil their twice-yearly economic and budget forecast.

The budget number is a closely held secret until forecast day, but legislative leaders predict the surplus will likely be in the neighborhood of $729 million — the amount left on the bottom line after the last legislative session.

The report’s release sets the stage for a political clash over tax cuts, health care spending and a renewed push for road-and-bridge funding. With both chambers of the Legislature controlled by Republicans next year, some expect a GOP agenda to dominate much of the debate once legislators return to St. Paul in January. DFL Gov. Mark Dayton and DFL legislators will face stiff resistance for any new spending proposals, GOP legislators said.

http://www.startribune.com/legislative-leaders-expect-to-see-a-modest-budget-surplus/404167086/