New bill aims to ban sale of "flavored whippets"
The Minnesota Commerce Committee held a hearing for a new bill that would ban the sale of flavored nitrous oxide cannisters, also known as "whippets," on Tuesday.
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The Minnesota Commerce Committee held a hearing for a new bill that would ban the sale of flavored nitrous oxide cannisters, also known as "whippets," on Tuesday.
Minnesota has some of the most inclusive laws in the country to support undocumented residents. But on Monday, a House committee advanced an effort to remove undocumented immigrants from state-funded health care, scholarships and other programs.
WCCO's Esme Murphy spoke with Sen. Alice Mann on her bill that would ban cell phones in Minnesota schools.
Minnesotans are paying 50 cents more on large package deliveries thanks to a law change that took effect last summer — designed to raise more funding to support road and bridge repairs.
The future of what would be the largest expansion of gambling in decades is uncertain after a setback during a Senate committee on Thursday.
Sports betting supporters say they hit the jackpot. They claim every key player in the gaming industry is on board this session after years of trying to legalize gambling. But as Caroline Cummings reports, the plan allowing you to put money on your favorite team already hit a major roadblock today.
The new department would conduct inspections, evaluations and investigations of state agencies and programs to identify fraud, waste, abuse and inefficiencies in state government.
The proposal also came up in the 2022 legislative session. It didn't go anywhere that year, but it is a possibility this time around.
Minnesota lawmakers will get an update on the state's free school meals program Wednesday.
This proposal also came up in the 2022 legislative session.
Investigators say fraudsters have stolen hundreds of millions in taxpayer money across several state programs. Now, lawmakers across the political divide say they want to crack down on the crimes and prevent them from happening in the first place. As Caroline Cummings reports, that could mean a new watchdog agency in state government.
Fighting fraud will be front and center for lawmakers at the Minnesota State Capitol on Tuesday.
Fighting fraud will be front and center for lawmakers at the Minnesota Capitol.
A Senate proposal would ban all phones on school grounds for kids in Kindergarten through eighth grade, and ban phones for high school students in the classroom.
Minnesota State Sen. Nicole Mitchell is now facing a second charge in connection with a burglary at a Detroit Lakes home.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has a busy year ahead with the state legislature back in session, clashing with new federal policies ordered by President Trump and mulling over whether to run for a third term.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks with WCCO’s Esme Murphy about the state legislature, a new fraud investigations unit and clashing with new federal policies ordered by President Trump.
The stalemate in the Minnesota House that has paralyzed the chamber for weeks is poised to end Thursday, after leaders in both parties said they reached an agreement on how they will move forward with the legislative session.
After more than three weeks of Democrats boycotting the session amid that conflict over who should be in charge of the chamber, both parties say they came to a deal that ensures they can govern the rest of session and get a state budget passed for their constituents who sent them to the capitol in the first place.
The three-week-long stalemate at the Minnesota State Capitol appears to be over. DFL and Republican House leaders struck a deal that could get them back to working together as soon as Thursday.
The election was originally scheduled for Jan. 28 after the DFL winner in November's election didn't appeal the judge's ruling that he didn't live there and couldn't serve.
One proposal would require 24-hour notification of any violence, harassment or bullying to both the parents of the student harmed and the student who instigated it.
The Minnesota Republican Party launched a recall election effort this week targeting all House Democrats who are continuing to boycott session, which is now in its fourth week.
Minnesota Republicans want to boot out every House Democrat who's boycotted the session — now in its fourth week. The state party launched an effort to have recall elections for all 66 Democrats in the chamber. But as Caroline Cummings reports, that process is long and difficult.
Supporters say sports betting has its best chance ever of passing the Minnesota Legislature this session, but there is a big if.
Three people are dead after a house fire in a small western Wisconsin town early Saturday.
Scott Jensen says he is pivoting his aspirations for statewide office, dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and instead launching his campaign for state auditor.
Lindsey Vonn thanked a journalist who wished her well on social media a day after suffering a broken leg in a devastating crash at the Winter Olympics in Italy.
A judge at an asylum hearing on Friday granted the family of 5-year-old Liam Ramos a continuance, allowing them more time to make their case, according to the family's attorney.
People describing themselves as constitutional observers tell WCCO that in the past week, reports of ICE agents disguising themselves have flooded in from the Twin Cities Metro and rural areas of the state.
Scott Jensen says he is pivoting his aspirations for statewide office, dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and instead launching his campaign for state auditor.
A judge at an asylum hearing on Friday granted the family of 5-year-old Liam Ramos a continuance, allowing them more time to make their case, according to the family's attorney.
People describing themselves as constitutional observers tell WCCO that in the past week, reports of ICE agents disguising themselves have flooded in from the Twin Cities Metro and rural areas of the state.
Every parent will tell you, kids see everything, they hear everything and so there's no doubt little eyes and hearts are seeing and feeling the tension, especially of the last few weeks.
An early morning house fire killed one person and injured another Sunday in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, officials say.
Scott Jensen says he is pivoting his aspirations for statewide office, dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and instead launching his campaign for state auditor.
People describing themselves as constitutional observers tell WCCO that in the past week, reports of ICE agents disguising themselves have flooded in from the Twin Cities Metro and rural areas of the state.
Last month, congressional Republicans moved closer to lifting a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, pushing a resolution to end the moratorium through the House.
Several sheriff's offices in Minnesota have what's called a 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Different models allow departments to help enforce ICE operations and to serve warrants on people inside their jails. Crow Wing County has both.
Border czar Tom Homan says in the past month, 158 people have been arrested for impeding or assaulting federal officers, with 85 cases already accepted for prosecution.
Three people are dead after a house fire in a small western Wisconsin town early Saturday.
John Lauritsen shares the story behind a massive snow sculpture that's now become a winter destination.
A jury has found a Wisconsin man guilty of forging threats against President Donald Trump in an attempt to get a witness against him deported.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026.
Hundreds of schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin have closed or shifted to virtual learning on Friday amid dangerous cold.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations aren't only happening in the Twin Cities. Federal agents are also working in smaller towns, and in some, seeing similar resistance from the community.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
Minnesota's governor spoke out Sunday afternoon following the shooting death of Alex Pretti by federal immigration enforcement agents. "What's the plan, Donald Trump? What is the plan?" Walz said. "Fear, violence and chaos is what you wanted from us, and you clearly underestimated the people of this state and nation."
A marching protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minneapolis Friday afternoon happened as a widespread work stoppage across Minnesota, as organizers called for a day of no work, no school and no shopping.
"When you come to our church, you see Muslims, Christians, Catholics, atheists, LGBT community, everybody with one purpose: helping the neighbor, loving your neighbor as yourself," said Pastor Sergio Amezcua
Scott Jensen says he is pivoting his aspirations for statewide office, dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and instead launching his campaign for state auditor.
The Republican Party endorsing convention is in May, and Demuth has said that if she doesn't win the endorsement, she will drop out, but several candidates are expected to continue to the August primary.
The official DHS statistics, which had not been previously reported, provide the most detailed look yet into who ICE has arrested during the Trump administration's crackdown.
In a crowded field, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth had a very good caucus night; she won the straw poll by about 32%.
Last month, congressional Republicans moved closer to lifting a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, pushing a resolution to end the moratorium through the House.
Amid ongoing immigration operations in Minnesota, a local company is filling a desperate need for on-demand legal help.
Outside the governor's mansion in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Friday, demonstrators, including many students and teachers, pleaded for Gov. Tim Walz to enact an immediate eviction moratorium to help families impacted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement surge.
It's part of broader protests calling on the Minneapolis-based retailer to respond more directly to immigration enforcement.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
For Minister JaNae Bates Imari, Co-executive director of ISAIAH — a progressive, multi-faith non-profit — it's an idea that was set into motion weeks ago.
Minneapolis Police are investigating a fatal shooting that happened Friday evening. Police say officers responded to a crash near 33rd and Chicago Avenue around 8:25 p.m.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension says it "remains committed" to working with the FBI and the Department of Justice on finding a joint path forward in the investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti.
Border czar Tom Homan says in the past month, 158 people have been arrested for impeding or assaulting federal officers, with 85 cases already accepted for prosecution.
Lang posted a video to social media of him kicking the newly-installed sculpture that reads "prosecute ICE."
Investigators have no proof that the missing mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie is still alive but are holding out hope she is "still out there," the sheriff said.
Public health officials say a measles crisis has long been brewing in Minnesota.
Patients in Minnesota are canceling appointments and deferring critical health care needs because of fear of immigration enforcement as the federal crackdown continues, doctors say.
Children's Minnesota announced Tuesday it plans to pause some gender-affirming care for children amid "threats" from the federal government.
Nurses in Minneapolis doubted federal immigration officers' claims about a Mexican immigrant's severe injuries.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026.
Bad Bunny says he wants to bring his culture to his 2026 Super Bowl halftime show Sunday.
Renowned comedian Dave Chappelle is set to return to the Twin Cities later this month to perform and "show a stand with a community at the center of events that should unite all Americans," show organizers said Monday.
Complete closure of the performing arts center in Washington, D.C., will start on July 4, Mr. Trump said. It's not yet clear how extensive the changes to the building might be.
Music's biggest night returned Sunday with the 68th annual Grammy Awards. Here is how to watch and stream and what to know.
In 1971, Demond Wilson appeared on an episode of "All in the Family," a role that led him to land a lead part in "Sanford and Son."
Lindsey Vonn thanked a journalist who wished her well on social media a day after suffering a broken leg in a devastating crash at the Winter Olympics in Italy.
David "Diggy" Coit scored 20 of his 28 in the final 13-plus minutes, including the game's final seven points, to help Maryland beat Minnesota 67-62.
Kawhi Leonard had 41 points and eight rebounds and the Los Angeles Clippers beat the slumping Minnesota Timberwolves 115-96 on Sunday.
Team USA defended its Olympic figure skating team event gold medal on Sunday after Ilia "Quad God" ushered the team to victory at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
The Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots Sunday to win the 2026 Super Bowl.
The Republican Party endorsing convention is in May, and Demuth has said that if she doesn't win the endorsement, she will drop out, but several candidates are expected to continue to the August primary.
In a crowded field, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth had a very good caucus night; she won the straw poll by about 32%.
The state of Minnesota is vowing to continue the legal battle after it and 12 cities were denied a temporary restraining order that would have shut down Operation Metro Surge.
The state of Minnesota is vowing to continue the legal battle after it and 12 cities, including St Paul and Minneapolis, were denied a temporary restraining order that would have shut down Operation Metro Surge.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
John Lauritsen shares the story behind a massive snow sculpture that's now become a winter destination.
Northland Arboretum was built half a century ago on top of what was once a city dump. But over time, nature carved its own path with a little help from a Zamboni.
St. James is a smaller town with a main street and a railroad running though. But inside a local building, the main street and the railroad are even smaller.
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
Holiday lights are on full display across the state right now, and just south of the Twin Cities you'll find a Christmas light show that's been around for more than half a century.
According to the Police Executive Research Firm, 82% of police departments in the United States equip officers with body cameras. That number comes from 2023, meaning it could be even higher by now.
With the new $2,600 stipend, DHS said the cost of a single self-deportation is $5,100. That's significantly less than the cost to arrest, detain and deport an undocumented immigrant, which DHS said costs more than $18,000.
It might be hard to believe, but it's gotten warmer outside over the past few days. The temperature is creeping above zero during the day, but the wind chill remains dangerously low. So, how is wind chill calculated?
Minnesota gun rights are in the spotlight after U.S. Border Patrol agents shot and killed a lawful gun carrier over the weekend.
It's a saying Minnesotans and Wisconsinites know well: "There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing." The problem is that even proper clothing might not be enough to withstand the bitter chill headed for the bold north.
Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.
A look at the newest addition to the polar bear population at St. Paul, Minnesota's Como Zoo.
From food shelves to school programs, our team is proud to serve where it matters most.
The Minnesota State Fair has unveiled its new food, drinks and vendors for 2025.
A suspect was taken into custody after an attack on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder on June 1 in which there were 15 people and a dog who were victims. The suspect threw Molotov cocktails that burned some of the victims, who were part of a march for Israeli hostages.
Monday is the warmest day of the week, with light rain possibly mixing with snow Monday evening across central Minnesota, WCCO meteorologist Joseph Dames reports.
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
Monday will be the warmest day of the week, with light rain possibly mixing with snow Monday evening across central Minnesota.
The Twin Cities will be very above average all week, with highs generally in the 40s — 30s on Tuesday and Wednesday — and lows in the 20s.
Highs will reach the 40s in the Twin Cities on Monday, and some precipitation is possible in the evening.
Ashley Klatte-Olson, with Ruthie's House Vintage, shares a preview of what you could find in a vintage store.
Anthony Tucker, with Hoop Habits, shares some advice.
Monday is the warmest day of the week, with light rain possibly mixing with snow Monday evening across central Minnesota, WCCO meteorologist Joseph Dames reports.
A judge at an asylum hearing on Friday granted the family of 5-year-old Liam Ramos a continuance, allowing them more time to make their case, according to the family's attorney.
An update on Minnesota's paid leave program, authorities continue to search for clues related to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie and more.