Reliable damage cost estimates for historic flooding is still weeks away.

In the past week state lawmakers have inched toward a special session to deal with flood damage in northeastern Minnesota, but the movement has been marked by repeated Republican objections to the size and specific details of the $190 million relief bill proposed by Gov. Mark Dayton’s administration.

Governor, legislative leaders want disaster-relief-only special session, but will they get it?

Gov. Mark Dayton said its unclear exactly when the special session will be held. He plans to send a request to President Barack Obama today for a disaster declaration, which will allow local governments to apply for federal aid for clean up and rebuilding.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty has called a special legislative session for October 18 to pass flood relief for 21 Minnesota counties that have been declared a federal disaster area. The Legislature will convene at 1 p.m. on Monday.

Despite what Gov. Tim Pawlenty and legislative leaders said several weeks ago would be a flood-only related special session, several DFL lawmakers are planning to introduce an anti-bullying measure when the bodies briefly reconvene.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty and legislators have tentatively agreed on an up to $80 million flood-relief package that they will take up in a special session.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty stood with legislative leaders this morning to announce details for a short special session to pass flood-relief legislation for southern Minnesota.