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Friday, June 9, 2023

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Former President Donald J. Trump first ever to face federal charges in 7 count indictment; the Supreme Court strikes down Alabama's Congressional Maps; Canadian wildfires affect the health of humans and wildlife.

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The Supreme Court upholds a key provision of the Voting Rights Act over Alabama redistricting, smoky skies could spell EPA trouble for some states, and President Biden calls on Congress to pass LGBTQ+ protections.

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Rural communities launch projects with funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a study says rural transgender adults feel less supported than those in urban areas, and a summer road trip could mean majestic scenic byways or a sprinkling of donut shops.

Minnesota

Connexus Energy operates a 'solar meadow' at its headquarters in Ramsey, Minn. (Photo courtesy of Fresh Energy)

Friday, June 9, 2023

Summer's In Bloom, Including 'Solar Meadows' in MN

By Elizabeth Hewitt for Reasons to be Cheerful.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Minnesota News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Net…

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The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says its new study into the economics of removing PFAS

Thursday, June 8, 2023

New Study Puts Price Tag on PFAS Removal from MN Water Systems

As more research emerges about the chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, government agencies are faced with the task of figuring …

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Organizations tracking a new U.S. strategy to build peace in countries prone to conflict say it is designed to remove longstanding obstacles to stability, such as women not being allowed to participate in their local economy. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Global Fragility Act Turns U.S. Peacekeeping Approach on Its Head

Minnesotans and the rest of the U.S. population sometimes feel the ripple effects of instability in other parts of the world, and humanitarian groups …

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Four years ago, Minnesota approved what was described as one of the toughest wage-theft laws in the country. But some construction union leaders say the practice is still prevalent within the industry. (Adobe Stock)
MN Adds Extra Wage Theft Protection for Construction Workers

As the summer construction season ramps up, the industry is preparing for new requirements under a pending Minnesota law change. In recent years…

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This spring, Minnesota joined the nearly two dozen other states that have legalized recreational marijuana use in some form. (Adobe Stock)
Newly Signed MN Marijuana Law to 'Wipe Away' Minor Offenses

Two months from today, Minnesota will begin the process of removing low-level marijuana convictions for those who have them on their criminal records…

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For years, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program has been quickly targeted for cuts when Congress is at odds over spending priorities. (Adobe Stock)
MN Hunger Relief Leader: SNAP Threats Off Mark

Whether it's the recent debt ceiling negotiations or the Farm Bill debate, a key federal food assistance program is again at the mercy of budget …

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As workers try to move forward from the pandemic's aftereffects, labor leaders, including the Minnesota Association of Professional Employees, say protections and stronger benefits should help get their careers back on track. (Adobe Stock)
MN Session Produced 'Under-the-Radar' Victories for Workers

Minnesota legislators adopted a lot of major policies in this year's session, including actions to support workers in many different fields. State …

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Community Action Agencies provide services that go beyond energy assistance and home weatherization. Many offer job training programs that take into account the barriers low-income individuals face in advancing in the workplace. (Adobe Stock)
With New Partners, MN's Poverty-Fighting Offices Expand Financial Reach

May is Community Action Month, and Minnesota agencies that help address poverty say demand for services isn't going away. To help clients thrive…

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In addition to shielding waterways from harmful sources, a new Minnesota environmental spending bill includes funding for planting trees and other efforts to accelerate carbon sequestration. (Adobe Stock)
MN Goes Big on Committing Funds to Protect Natural Resources

From protecting and studying waterways to addressing chronic wasting disease, conservation voices say there are a lot of important items in …

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Beyond wellness checks and important screenings, health experts recommend women take personal time to reflect or relax to keep the stress from building up. (Adobe Stock)
Women's Health Month: Adding Personal Wellness to Your To-Do List

As Women's Health Month continues, experts in Minnesota and elsewhere are reminding women to prioritize their well-being. The Centers for Disease …

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Over the next budget years, state aid for Minnesota public schools will increase to more than $23 billion. (Adobe Stock)
Budget Stability, Flexibility Among Highlights of MN School Funding Plan

Many Minnesota school districts say they have been walking a financial tightrope, but leaders appear to be encouraged by the new education funding …

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As the nation grapples with mass shooting events around the country, statehouses are under pressure to adopt gun restrictions with such laws unlikely to pass a divided Congress. (Adobe Stock)
Evidence Touted as MN Moves to Adopt Gun-Safety Laws

Minnesota appears to be on the verge of adopting new gun-safety laws. Some of the common talking points have come up in debate, but groups demanding …

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