>>Bonding Bill Concerns
(St. Paul, MN) — It’s crunch time at the Minnesota State Capitol as lawmakers face a fast-approaching May 18th deadline with a bonding bill still up in the air. Leaders, including Governor Walz, agree that an infrastructure package is a priority, but there’s a gap on how big it should be. Senate Capital Investment Chair Sandy Pappas says she’s concerned as time runs short, citing urgent needs such as water systems, roads, and lead pipe replacement. Her proposal comes in around $1.4 billion, while the governor’s plan is smaller, and Republicans fall somewhere in between. With little time left and no expectation of a special session, lawmakers say getting a deal done is critical.
>>Governor Walz Signs Bills to Improve Recovery After Traumatic Event
(St. Paul, MN) — Governor Walz has signed two new bills aimed at helping families recover after traumatic events, legislation supported by the son of former House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman. Hortman and her husband were killed in a politically motivated attack at their home last year. One of the new laws is designed to make it easier for families to navigate insurance claims following major incidents. Colin Hortman says it took months to repair his family’s home after the shooting was fully. The second measure requires law enforcement agencies to disclose what chemicals are used during emergency responses inside buildings, helping families better understand cleanup and safety concerns afterward.
>>Senator Klobuchar Co-Sponsors National Beef Month Resolution
(Washington, DC) – A resolution co-sponsored by U-S Senator Amy Klobuchar designates May 2026 as National Beef Month. Klobuchar says, “Minnesota cattle producers
are vital for our agricultural economy, putting food on the tables across our state and nationwide.” The Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association thanked Senators Klobuchar and Pete Ricketts of Nebraska for leading the resolution.
>>Rochester Business Owner Charged with Child Sex Abuse
(Rochester, MN) — A Rochester business owner is facing multiple charges after investigators say he recorded himself sexually assaulting victims inside his home. Authorities have charged Robert Dunham with false imprisonment and third-degree criminal sexual conduct. In a separate case, he’s also accused of sexually assaulting a minor and possessing child sexual abuse material. Dunham, who owns All Star Basements, was arrested Saturday and later released on $100,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court again on May 13th.
>>Hit and Run Driver Hits Boy on Bike in St. Cloud
(St. Cloud, MN) — A boy riding a bike was injured in a hit-and-run crash Tuesday night in St. Cloud. Police say around 9:50 p.m., they found the child hurt and the pickup involved had left the scene. Authorities say the driver, 36-year-old Winner Marube, later returned and admitted to hitting the boy. Officers believe alcohol played a role, and Marube was taken into custody and booked into the Stearns County Jail. The child was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
>>Minnesota Wild Hosting Game 3 Watch Outdoor Watch Party
(St. Paul, MN) – The Minnesota Wild is hosting a free watch party Saturday outside Grand Casino Arena for Game 3 of the second-round playoff series with Colorado. A large
video screen will be set up along West 7th Street between West Kellogg and 5th Street. The free event begins at 5 p-m Saturday and runs through the end of the game. Tickets are not required, but fans will have to pass through security to enter. The Wild trail the Avalanche two games to none in the best-of-seven series.
