Small-government-minded Minnesotans may soon find out how miserable life will be when the Gopher State becomes a government-free zone.

People aren’t easily cured of their delusions, so rather than learn the lesson that government actually does serve a useful purpose, those still chanting Reagan’s government-is-the-problem mantra probably will just blame the side they’re not on for what’s about to happen.

Regardless, it’s likely to get ugly and messy.

From the St. Paul Pioneer Press:

CLOSED OR SUSPENDED:

46 state boards and agencies, with minimal staffing at 29 others. Departments with the most staff kept on duty would include Human Services, Corrections, Public Safety and Veterans Affairs.

State funding for many nonprofits including some child care assistance programs. A court-appointed referee will decide whether some social service programs will continue.

Most highway and other state-funded construction projects. Private contracts may have to lay off workers. Emergency highway repairs will continue.

–State parks and tourism office.

–State lottery.

–Many licensing boards for occupations from physical therapy to private detectives.

–Minnesota Zoo, though some staff would care for animals.

–Various state licensing offices, such as for driver’s licenses and car registration.

–Employment centers.

Plus my girlfriend, Tammy Nelson, a long-time public servant with the state Department of Revenue, is about to be laid off. So I’d like to issue a very personal thanks to everyone involved–regardless of party or ideology–for mucking up her finances and screwing with our summer plans.