Minnesota Vikings Stadium Debate Likely Headed For Special Session

When the Minnesota Legislature ends its 2011 session on Monday, the Minnesota Vikings will almost certainly not have a new stadium deal in place. However, the Associated Press is reporting a Vikings stadium bill is likely destined for a special session.

The Vikings stadium issue has been put on the back burner due to the state's massive budget deficit. Right now, there's about a $1.8 billion gap in how to resolve that deficit.

Governor Mark Dayton can call a special session and force legislators to stay as long as it takes to get the work done.

The Vikings have offered to contribute $407 million to a $1 billion stadium project in Arden Hills. The team is hoping the state will pick-up $300 million of the project's cost.  

The Minnesota Legislature has until midnight Monday to work out a budget and stadium deal. A special session will be called if they fail to meet that deadline.

The Minnesota Vikings Metrodome lease is set to run out at the end of the 2011 season.