Despite a big push from supporters, chances don’t look particularly good this legislative session for Minnesota legalizing recreational marijuana. Governor Tim Walz said last week it should happen “as fast as Minnesotans are comfortable we’re doing the right thing” — but Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka does not appear interested. The Republican from Nisswa says, […]
Backers ratchet up pressure for hands-free cell phone bill
Backers ratchet up their push at the State Capitol with hearings tomorrow (Tues) in the House and Wednesday in the Senate on prohibiting drivers from using cell phones while behind the wheel, except in hands-free mode. House sponsor, Minneapolis Democrat Frank Hornstein says, “We are united and determined to make 2019 the year that Minnesota becomes […]
Walz challenges Senate Repubs: Take a vote on gun sale criminal background checks
Governor Tim Walz this week challenged Senate Republicans on the issue of criminal background checks for gun sales. “Go ahead and have the vote and make it clear where you stand,” says Walz, “And go ahead and allow Minnesotans to see where you stand, because if you’re right on this, they’re certainly going to back […]
MN Atty Gen Ellison prepared to take legal action against federal gov’t over shutdown
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison says he’s been researching possible legal action against the federal government if the shutdown continues. “We’re prepared to take full use of the legal system to enforce the contracts and the commitments that the federal government has made,” he says. Ellison wouldn’t speculate about exactly what his office might do, […]
Argosy University files for receivership in federal court
State officials say the company that owns Argosy University, which has a campus in Eagan with about a thousand students, has filed for receivership in federal court. Higher Education Commissioner Dennis Olson says they don’t know at this time if Argosy University will remain in operation, but officials will work to prevent an abrupt closure […]
Army Corps extends public comment period on Enbridge request for Line 3 pipeline permit
The U-S Army Corps of Engineers is taking public comment for an additional month, through February 21st, on one of the permits Enbridge is requesting to upgrade its controversial Line 3 pipeline through northern Minnesota. Officials say they want to ensure interested parties have ample time to review the information and give them meaningful feedback. […]
MN Senate GOP leader open to “bridge” funding for SNAP during shutdown, if feds pay Minnesota back (AUDIO)
The Walz administration has put state lawmakers on notice that the legislature might have to provide “bridge” funding for the SNAP food stamp program to the tune of 40-plus million dollars a month, if the federal government shutdown doesn’t end soon. Senate Republican Majority Leader Paul Gazelka says he’s open to it — with one […]
SNAP (food stamp) February benefits will be 10 days early due to shutdown, March still up in the air
Minnesota officials say those on the SNAP (food stamp) program, because of the federal shutdown, will see February benefits loaded onto their E-B-T cards about 10 days early. State Human Services Commissioner Tony Lourey (LOR-ee) cautions, “The trouble for recipients is that typically a recipient of food supports runs out of those food supports after […]
MN Sec of State Simon optimistic after $6.6 million federal election security bill moves through key committee
A bill authorizing Minnesota access to $6.6 million in federal funds for election security today passed out of a key committee at the State Capitol. Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon says being without the money has made the state vulnerable and adds “Minnesota is now the only state out of all 50 states not […]
Coach Reeve saying little about reports that Maya Moore’s status with Lynx could be in doubt
Minnesota Lynx Coach Cheryl Reeve is saying little about media reports that Maya Moore’s status with the team could be in doubt. In a statement issued Thursday afternoon, Reeve would only say “We have been in close contact with Maya Moore and together, are deciding the best way to approach next season.” Moore could not […]