>>Budget Forecast Shows Current $2.5 Billion Surplus, $2.99 Billion Deficit in 2028-29
(St. Paul, MN) — State officials are predicting a surplus of nearly 2.5 billion dollars in the current biennium and a 2.96 billion-dollar deficit for the 2028-29 budget. The Minnesota Management and Budget Office says a better-than-expected fiscal year close and higher near-term revenue collections, partially offset by increased spending estimates, result in a projected surplus. But higher health care costs and slow economic growth drive an increased structural imbalance in a couple of years.
>>Duluth Police Arrest Suspect Wanted for Murders in Atlanta
(Duluth, MN) — A 20-year-old man with an extensive criminal history is in custody following a search warrant in Duluth on Wednesday. Police say Kmauri Burnett was arrested after officers seized three firearms, 60 grams of fentanyl, nearly $1,750 in cash, and other evidence of drug sales from his home. Burnett faces pending drug and gun charges and was wanted in Atlanta, Georgia, for two murders and a carjacking. Authorities called the arrest a safe and successful operation.
>>AG Ellison Announces Refunds for Woodbury Dental Arts Patients
(St. Paul, MN) — Attorney General Keith Ellison says his office has settled with Woodbury Dental Arts, allowing former patients to claim refunds for services they paid for but never received. The clinic abruptly closed in March 2024, leaving hundreds with unfinished treatments and unpaid bills. Refunds will come from the state’s new Consumer Protection Restitution Account, created to help victims when companies go bankrupt. Patients will receive notices soon and must submit claims within 60 days with proof of payment. Former owner Marko Kamel has surrendered his dental license and cannot reapply for 10 years.
>>GOP Senator Rasmusson Supports Investigation into Fraud and Alleged Ties to Terror Group
(Fergus Falls, MN) – State Senator Jordan Rasmusson supports the U.S. Treasury secretary’s investigation into fraud and claims that the stolen money is going to terrorists in Somalia. The Fergus Falls Republican says, “We need to know, and Minnesotans are demanding to know where their hard-earned tax dollars are going. And I’m very concerned about the possibility and the potential of those dollars going directly or indirectly funding Al-Shabaab and other bad actors in East Africa.” The Al-Shabaab allegations are based on a report in the City Journal, the flagship magazine of the conservative think-tank the Manhattan Institute. Governor Walz said this week he welcomes the investigation, but not if it targets just one part of our community.
>>Rochester NAACP Stands With Minnesota Somali Community
(Rochester, MN) — The Rochester Branch of the NAACP is denouncing the Trump Administration’s negative comments targeting Minnesota’s Somali population. The president of the civil rights group, Dr. Wal Elegbede released a statement that said leadership should be about uplifting people, not tearing down communities. The action comes following an ICE operation in the Twin Cities targeting illegal Somali immigrants. Doctor Elegbede adds that he’s calling on elected officials, organizations, and all Rochester residents to rally behind Minnesota Somalians. A rally is set for Sunday at 125 Live.
