The state's two largest public employees unions today (MONDAY) overwhelmingly rejected contract proposals that state negotiators have previously called their last, best offers. The votes authorize a strike, but union leaders say they'll delay setting a strike date in order to return to the bargaining table. State officials, however, say there isn't much time left to reach a negotiated deal. Minnesota Public Radio's Michael Khoo joins us now from the Capitol. Michael, how does the strike vote change the dynamics? KHOO: The vote certainly gives union leaders a mandate to return to the state and ask for more -- mainly in the way of health benefits. And the margins were impressive. For the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Council 6, just over 80 percent of those voting cast a "no" vote. AFSCME represents 17,000 mainly clerical, custodial, and maintenance workers who would be eligible to strike. The Minnesota Association of Professional Employees represents 11,000 technicians and skilled specialists. Of those who voted, two-thirds voted "no." AFSCME executive director Peter Benner says the rejections send a clear message. BENNER: We are prepared to strike if we need to. But our first goal is to try to see if we can get the state back to the table and discuss this. KHOO: They hope to resume those discussions sometime this week.