>>Minnesota House Passes AI “Nudification” Bill, But Debate Continues
(St. Paul, MN) — The Minnesota House has overwhelmingly passed new legislation aimed at cracking down on the growing problem of AI-generated nude images, often referred to as “nudification” technology. However, even supporters of the bill acknowledge that more work may be needed before it becomes law. The measure, led by DFL Representative Jess Hanson, seeks to ban tools that allow users to create deepfake nude images of individuals without their consent, an issue that has increasingly raised concerns about privacy and digital abuse. Hanson emphasized that the bill targets the source of the problem: the creation of the images themselves. “The creation of the content is the root. We do go after perpetrators, but unfortunately, even the law is not strong enough to catch a lot of them.” The bill passed the House with strong bipartisan support, 132-1. The lone dissent came from Republican Representative Drew Roach of Farmington, who argued the legislation does not go far enough to address the issue fully. Roach pointed to a potential loophole in the bill that he believes could limit its effectiveness.
>>Elections Bill Passes Senate
(St. Paul, MN) – The Minnesota Senate has passed a multi-tier bill to make elections in Minnesota even safer. The Elections Policy Bill contains provisions that strengthen protections against election intimidation and interference and update candidate address privacy and security measures. There’s even a section of the bill that ensures that presidential candidates meet eligibility requirements. Republicans tried to pass an amendment that would have required voters to have an enhanced ID or a passport to vote, but the Democrats blocked that. The bill passed the Senate 34-33.
>>Farmington Man Indicted on First-Degree Murder Charges in Christmas Eve Shooting
(Hastings, MN) — A Farmington man is now facing first-degree murder charges for the Christmas Eve shooting of the mother of his two children in Castle Rock Township. A Dakota County grand jury indicted 30-year-old Demarco Jones on multiple counts in the death of 26-year-old Tatianna Ehnes-Giles. He was initially charged with second-degree murder. Deputies found Ehnes-Giles dead of a head injury in a bedroom. Jones had blood on his hands and head and told officers the gun was “in the room.” He remains in the Dakota County jail.
>>Thousands of Riders Hit the Road for Spring Flood Run
(St. Paul, MN) — Thousands of motorcyclists are expected to take part in the annual Spring Flood Run, happening today through Sunday, marking the unofficial start of Minnesota’s motorcycle season. State Motorcycle Safety Specialist Jay Bock encourages riders to plan ahead and ride responsibly, especially during large group rides.
“Be prepared for the group ride. Get an idea of what the plan is, where the stops are going to be,” Bock said. “Be prepared for the weather — hot, cold, rain, whatever it happens to be — and be mindful of the skill levels of the other riders in your group. Everybody has a much different place in their skill set.” The route takes riders through scenic stretches of the Mississippi and St. Croix River valleys, traveling between the Twin Cities metro area and Winona.
>>Shaping the Future of Mille Lacs Lake/Public Input Wanted
(Aitkin, MN) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking public input on fisheries management for Mille Lacs Lake. Anglers, residents, and other stakeholders are invited to share their perspectives on current management practices and help shape the lake’s future. An in-person meeting will take place on Thursday evening before the fishing opener, May 7th, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Hazelton Town Hall in Aitkin. During the session, DNR staff will cover: The current status of the fishery, background on the creel survey program, species population modeling, and how fishing regulations are developed. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and provide input that will directly inform future management decisions for Mille Lacs Lake.
>>Plant It Forward: Minnesota Marks 150 Years of Arbor Day
(St. Paul, MN) — Minnesota celebrates the 150th anniversary of Arbor Day today(Fri), a tradition it embraced in 1876 as one of the nation’s earliest adopters. What began as a single day has grown into Arbor Month throughout May, a statewide celebration established in 1978. The Minnesota DNR invites residents to “Plant It Forward” by planting, caring for, and appreciating trees in their communities. “Trees support more than just our landscapes,” said Rachael Dvoracek, community forestry project specialist. “They help cool our communities, clean the air, and create places where people feel connected. When Minnesotans plant and care for trees, they’re making an investment that benefits their communities for generations.”
