 Minnesota lawmakers will have a $1.4 billion budget surplus to spread around next year. It's an unexpected bit of good news for most state officials who weren't expecting such a sizable sum of extra cash. Much of that money comes from nearly $730 million that legislature left unspent this year due to stalled tax and transportation bills. Governor Mark Dayton and the Republicans who control the legislature in 2017 will set a two-year budget. The governor is urging financial restraint and says the extra cash is another reminder that the state is on firm financial footing after several decades of deficits. Republicans have said any extra money should go to tax cuts and credits. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.