Today, Governor Mark Dayton vetoed four lawsuit reform bills passed by the Legislature this week. The four bills—SF 149, SF 373, SF 429, and SF 530—would change how Minnesotans are able to sue corporations and businesses. All four bills were passed by the Senate last year. They were passed in the House last week and re-passed by the Senate on Wednesday.

Gov. Dayton had harsh words for the Republican-led Legislature saying the bills represent “legislative meddling” and accused GOPers of favoring their friends in business over other Minnesotans. Republicans argued the bills would improve the business climate in the state. In a letter to Senator Fischbach (R-Paynesville), President of the Senate, Dayton said the bills would not create jobs but would “set a dangerous precedent”. The Governor said Friday that characterizing the package of tort reform bills as job creators was laughable. “Calling a crow a swan doesn’t make it one,” he said.

Republicans were disappointed with the Governor’s vetoes. Speaker of the House Kurt Zellers (R-Maple Grove) said the Governor owes Minnesota business leaders an apology. “Let’s get to work and let’s do the right thing for Minnesota,” said Senate Majority Leader David Senjem (R-Rochester).

Please see article below.