Some Minnesotans' criminal records to be wiped clean
State lawmakers and advocates are celebrating second chances for thousands of Minnesotans.
Minnesota Legislature
Gov. Walz makes state service jobs more accessible to Minnesotans
His office says the executive order will open more opportunities for people who want to work within state service.
Did DFL lawmakers move too quickly on some of last session's bills?
The legislature enacted a sweeping progressive agenda this spring, but now there are questions about whether the legislature went too fast and whether some of the bills, including legalized marijuana and school resource officers' use of force, need to be fixed.
New law aiming to crack down on catalytic converter thefts takes effect
Minnesota lawmakers passed a new law that creates penalties for unlawful sales and possession of catalytic converters.
Barack Obama, national media take note of Minnesota’s legislative session
Minnesota's recent legislative session is getting a lot of attention. While Minnesota Republicans aren't happy, many Democrats and Washington columnists say it proves why elections matter.
Minnesota lawmakers passed 40 climate initiatives in 2023 session
Supporters say Minnesota's climate action plan is a historic effort to reduce greenhouse gases and protect Minnesota from the impact of climate change for decades to come.
What you need to know about loan forgiveness for healthcare workers in Minnesota
What you need to know -- and who qualifies -- for loan forgiveness under the DFL's recently passed "Nurse and Patient Safety Act."
"Elections have consequences": Obama praises MN's 2023 session accomplishments
Obama posted a thread on Twitter Friday morning, recapping the many DFL-backed initiatives that were signed into law over the course of just a few months.
Gov. Walz uses first veto to halt rideshare wages bill
The legislation would have given Uber and Lyft drivers a pay increase and job protection. Walz issued an executive order Thursday creating a task force to issue recommendations for rideshare legislation next year.
Paid family and medical leave signed into law by Gov. Walz
The program will allow workers up to 12 weeks a year off with partial pay to care for a newborn or a sick family member, and up to 12 weeks to recover from their own serious illness.
Gov. Tim Walz, DFL leaders celebrate budget with "generational impact"
On the steps of the State Capitol, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz held a ceremony to celebrate signing the next state budget into law Wednesday morning.
How bills at the Minnesota Capitol will impact your budget
The Minnesota Legislature adjourned for the 2023 session Monday night, sending the $72 billion, two-year state budget to Gov. Tim Walz's desk for signature.
"My heart breaks for the patients of Minnesota": Nurses speak out as legislators scrap mandated staff levels
All session long, nurses and legislative supporters had championed the Keeping Nurses at the Bedside Act as a way of making sure all hospitals across the state could be staffed in a way that they say would provide the best care for patients.
Nurses union displeased by last-minute changes to nursing act
The nurses union was dealt a major blow in the final hours of the legislative session.
How legislature's moves will impact you
The bills passed by the DFL-controlled legislature feature targeted tax relief and one-time rebate checks, but also an onslaught on new tax increases.
Minnesota lawmakers wrap up historic 2023 legislative session
No matter if you're a Republican or Democrat, this session will be remembered for years to come.
2023 Minnesota legislative session ends. See what bills passed
The Minnesota Legislature wrapped up all of its work in the 2023 session on Monday. Here's some of what the bills lawmakers passed this year.
Legislative POCI Caucus celebrates session accomplishments
It is the final day of the Minnesota legislative session and it has already been historic. Monday leaders and members of the Minnesota House and Senate People of Color and Indigenous Caucus spoke about the accomplishments they made this year.
Session 2023: What still needs to be done in Minnesota before loomig deadline
Here's a look at what bills have passed the Minnesota Legislature -- and what else still needs to be done -- before the looming deadline at midnight.
What's left for lawmakers to do on last day of session
Monday is the final day of the Legislative Session, and a number of bills are still on the table.
What lawmakers passed during busy weekend at State Capitol
Monday is the last day of Minnesota's Legislative Session, and lawmakers were very busy over the weekend.
Minnesota lawmakers race to finish line with hours remaining in 2023 session
Minnesotans will see some money back this year, but they’ll pay a little more when shopping.
Interview: Gov. Walz speaks on historic legislative session
Gov. Tim Walz joins us in studio to talk about what's been passed and what's left ahead of the session's end.
Tax bill with $3 billion in cuts on way to Gov. Walz; Separate bill will raise gas tax and impose new fee on deliveries
On the eve of the last day of session, Minnesota lawmakers sent a tax bill with $3 billion in cuts and a transportation funding package with a gas tax increase and a new retail delivery fee to Gov. Tim Walz's desk.
What legal recreational marijuana will look like Minnesota
The Senate signed off on a bill to legalize cannabis for adults 21 and older starting this summer. WCCO’s Caroline Cummings explains the long road to get here and what’s next for the historic change to the state’s drug policy.
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Latest News
Motorists viewing northern lights causing traffic problems in Chisago County
People flocking to see the northern lights have been causing issues on the road in Chisago County, according to the county sheriff.
Northern Lights in Minnesota: Dec. 1, 2023
For two nights in a row, the northern lights danced overhead in Minnesota and western Wisconsin, and WCCO viewers sent in their best photos.
Metro Transit to enforce fare payment, issue $35 citations starting Monday
Starting Monday, Metro Transit will start issuing citations and fining people who have not paid their fare.
Mild weekend with chances for light snowfall
A high pressure system will stick around for one more day, bringing a mix of sun and clouds to the state.
As girls high school hockey numbers drop, schools are joining forces
Even though Minnesota is the "State of Hockey," that state is struggling to keep girls interested in skating. As numbers drop, high schools are merging to stay alive.
Twin Cities News
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Motorists viewing northern lights causing traffic problems in Chisago County
People flocking to see the northern lights have been causing issues on the road in Chisago County, according to the county sheriff.
Northern Lights in Minnesota: Dec. 1, 2023
For two nights in a row, the northern lights danced overhead in Minnesota and western Wisconsin, and WCCO viewers sent in their best photos.
Metro Transit to enforce fare payment, issue $35 citations starting Monday
Starting Monday, Metro Transit will start issuing citations and fining people who have not paid their fare.
As girls high school hockey numbers drop, schools are joining forces
Even though Minnesota is the "State of Hockey," that state is struggling to keep girls interested in skating. As numbers drop, high schools are merging to stay alive.
Get to know the finalists behind Minnesota's new flag designs
Minnesota will soon have a new flag. Meet some of the designers behind the finalists.
Greater Minnesota News
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Motorists viewing northern lights causing traffic problems in Chisago County
People flocking to see the northern lights have been causing issues on the road in Chisago County, according to the county sheriff.
Northern Lights in Minnesota: Dec. 1, 2023
For two nights in a row, the northern lights danced overhead in Minnesota and western Wisconsin, and WCCO viewers sent in their best photos.
Get to know the finalists behind Minnesota's new flag designs
Minnesota will soon have a new flag. Meet some of the designers behind the finalists.
Forecasting atmospheric weather is tricky enough; predicting Northern Lights is that much harder
NOAA space-weather forecasters track coronal holes in an effort to forecast the solar wind, but those holes can interact in unpredictable ways. To make things even more complicated, the sun rotates every 27 days, turning the solar wind into a complex spiral of high and low speeds.
Kettle River councilmember claims city administrator changed ordinance just to fine her $6,000
A small Minnesota town is dealing with some big problems. A city councilwoman is threatening to press harassment charges against the city administrator.
Wisconsin News
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iPhone notification leads authorities to man killed in Wisconsin crash, sheriff says
Authorities in western Wisconsin say an iPhone crash notification led them to a deceased driver late Thursday night.
Former Wisconsin GOP Attorney General Brad Schimel is running for the state Supreme Court
Former Republican Attorney General Brad Schimel is running for the Wisconsin Supreme Court against incumbent Justice Ann Walsh Bradley in 2025.
Western Wisconsin barn fire kills 150+ animals, causes $225K in damage
More than 150 animals were killed in a blaze at a western Wisconsin barn Wednesday morning.
Official who posted "ballot selfie" in Wisconsin has felony charge dismissed
A local Wisconsin official who posted a selfie with his marked ballot on Facebook during the April 2022 election has had a felony charge against him dropped.
Report: Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers used alternate email under name of Hall of Fame pitcher
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers used an alternative state email account using the name of Hall of Fame Milwaukee Braves pitcher Warren Spahn.
Community Journalism
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Chance north Minneapolis encounter leads to new family, outlook on life for young boy
Tyrone Fischer has a new mom and a new outlook on life after a chance encounter five years ago in a street in north Minneapolis.
This Nordic drive-thru in western Minnesota is a popular spot for lefse
We've all been through the coffee and fast-food drive-thrus, but they have nothing on this Evansville business. In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen takes us to a drive-through that's as Nordic as it gets.
New Fort Snelling exhibit showcases Minnesota's diverse history
A two-year rehabilitation and improvement project features a final piece — a new exhibit called "Many Voices, Many Stories, One Place."
Smith Foundry president believes pollution concerns will be cleared up after more EPA testing
The president admits when they took over, there were problems with record keeping and some equipment not working properly, and points to a misinterpretation of their reports.
"Be a Santa to a Senior" program aims to make sure no one is left forgotten this holiday season
The program allows shoppers to brighten the holiday for those in need by picking up personalized gifts for older adults, who they adopt through displays at local stores.
Politics
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Get to know the finalists behind Minnesota's new flag designs
Minnesota will soon have a new flag. Meet some of the designers behind the finalists.
Kettle River councilmember claims city administrator changed ordinance just to fine her $6,000
A small Minnesota town is dealing with some big problems. A city councilwoman is threatening to press harassment charges against the city administrator.
Here's the new flag design Minnesotans want, according to a ranked-choice poll
A new ranked choice poll shows the flag that Minnesotans would pick to represent their state.
Reps. Emmer, Finstad & Fischbach vote against expelling Rep. George Santos
Three Minnesota Democrats voted to remove Santos — Reps. Angie Craig, Betty McCollum, and Ilhan Omar — but the fourth Democrat, Rep. Dean Phillips, did not vote in Friday's proceedings.
U.S. appeals court: Trump not immune from civil lawsuits over Jan. 6 attack
A group of congressional Democrats and veteran Capitol Police officers are seeking civil damages for the harms they allege they suffered because of the Capitol riot.
Consumer News
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Report: Inflation impacting Minnesotans more than national average
New numbers from the federal government show the average American needs nearly $11,500 in additional funds just to maintain the same standard of living they enjoyed in 2021.
This Nordic drive-thru in western Minnesota is a popular spot for lefse
We've all been through the coffee and fast-food drive-thrus, but they have nothing on this Evansville business. In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen takes us to a drive-through that's as Nordic as it gets.
When will MSP get renewable aviation fuel, which could cut emissions by 80% or more?
Sustainable aviation fuel is a combination of cooking oil, non-food crops, solid waste and industrial waste gasses from processes like steel making. The beauty is it can be used in existing planes and we can transport it through existing pipelines.
Thousands of syringes containing "vaginal tightening gel" seized at MSP Airport, CBP says
CBP officials say the individually wrapped pink packages have an estimated resale value of more than $19,000.
Tips for protecting your packages from porch pirates this holiday season
More than 71 million Americans are expected to shop Cyber Monday sales according to the National Retail Federation. That means millions of packages delivered to homes across the country and millions of targets for porch pirates.
Crime News
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Who is John Turscak, man accused of stabbing Derek Chauvin 22 times?
The inmate who allegedly stabbed Derek Chauvin in federal prison last week was identified as John Turscak, according to new charges filed on Friday.
Kettle River councilmember claims city administrator changed ordinance just to fine her $6,000
A small Minnesota town is dealing with some big problems. A city councilwoman is threatening to press harassment charges against the city administrator.
Did the embarrassment of home foreclosure lead to murder?
Prosecutors say a man staged his wife's death 24 hours before they were expected to be evicted from their home to save himself from shame.
Derek Chauvin was stabbed 22 times in federal prison attack, charges say
The U.S. Attorney's Office identified the alleged perpetrator as 52-year-old John Turscak. He now faces charges of attempted murder, assault with intent to commit murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
LA officials believe serial killer targeting homeless; 3 dead in 3 days
The LAPD is searching for suspect in at least 3 killings of homeless people in the city of Los Angeles.
Health News
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COVID levels rise by 50% in Minnesota compared to pre-Thanksgiving levels
New wastewater data from the University of Minnesota shows an uptick in COVID-19 cases statewide.
A look inside the United States' first-ever certified "Blue Zone" located in Minnesota
Living to 100 may seem like a major feat, but there are communities around the world where it's common — they're called "Blue Zones."
Diabetes drugs' major side effect, weight loss, drives demand
The ads for diabetes drugs are impossible to escape. Their side effect of major weight loss continues to make them surge in popularity. In Talking Points, Esme Murphy dives into the other side effects and the staggering out-of-pocket costs.
Protein bars recalled after hairnet and shrink wrap found in products
Recalled Burn Boot Camp snacks were sold at locations run by gym franchises throughout the U.S.
Hennepin Healthcare nurses vote "no confidence" in CEO ahead of 2024 budget decision
The Hennepin Healthcare board of directors tells us they were able to minimize the negative impacts of benefit changes, and will continue to offer competitive pay and pension plans, stating they currently have a 90% retention rate.
Entertainment News
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Shane MacGowan, longtime frontman of The Pogues, dies at 65
Singer-songwriter Shane MacGowan, the longtime front-man of The Pogues, died at the age of 65 surrounded by loved ones in Ireland, his family said.
Taylor Swift was Spotify's most-streamed artist in 2023
Taylor Swift was the most-streamed artist globally in 2023, according to Spotify Wrapped. Here's how you can find who you spent the most time with this year.
Sever's Holiday Light Show returns to Shakopee
A holiday tradition is once again shining brightly in Shakopee.
"Late Show" episodes canceled as Stephen Colbert recovers from surgery
Late night host Stephen Colbert is recovering from surgery for a ruptured appendix, he said on Monday.
Daryl Hall gets restraining order against John Oates
The pair made up the pop rock duo Hall & Oates, and put out 18 studio albums together.
Sports News
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As girls high school hockey numbers drop, schools are joining forces
Even though Minnesota is the "State of Hockey," that state is struggling to keep girls interested in skating. As numbers drop, high schools are merging to stay alive.
Airboat rescues Centennial Sports Arena's ice after ammonia leak
Deputies used an unlikely tool inside a Twin Cities sports arena Thursday to mitigate a dangerous ammonia leak.
Connor Dewar has 3 goals and an assist to Wild rout Predators 6-1
Connor Dewar had a hat trick and added an assist, Filip Gustavsson made 26 saves and the Minnesota Wild routed Nashville 6-1 on Thursday night to end the Predators' winning streak at six games.
Marc-André Fleury's mask featuring Native art raises more than $35,000 at auction
Fleury wore the mask during warmups at the Wild's Native American Heritage Night, defying the NHL's restriction on specialty jerseys, masks, stickers and decals for theme nights.
Mason Garcia returns to hockey rink less than 2 weeks after traumatic brain injury
"I'm still me. I'm still the same person. My life is just going to look a little differently," Mason Garcia said.
Talking Points
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Diabetes drugs' major side effect, weight loss, drives demand
The ads for diabetes drugs are impossible to escape. Their side effect of major weight loss continues to make them surge in popularity. In Talking Points, Esme Murphy dives into the other side effects and the staggering out-of-pocket costs.
Talking Points preview: Weight loss driving demand for diabetes drugs
Esme Murphy explores how the out of pocket costs for these drugs is leaving some people broke.
Talking Points: Diabetes drugs' major side effect, weight loss, drives demand (part 3)
The ads for diabetes drugs are impossible to escape, as their side effect of major weight loss continues to make them surge in popularity. Earlier this year, WCCO spoke with Laura Collins. Her insurance covered her Wegovy from the start. She is maintaining her 100-pound weight loss, and she isn't going broke doing it.
Talking Points: Diabetes drugs' major side effect, weight loss, drives demand (part 2)
The ads for diabetes drugs are impossible to escape, as their side effect of major weight loss continues to make them surge in popularity. Wegovy and Mounjaro have been approved by the FDA for weight loss. This distinction could be key for insurance companies that currently do not cover these drugs, forcing patients like Lori Rock to look to coupons to cover the cost.
Talking Points: Diabetes drugs' major side effect, weight loss, drives demand (part 1)
The ads for diabetes drugs are impossible to escape, as their side effect of major weight loss continues to make them surge in popularity. Murphy spoke with Dr. Michael Miedema, a preventative cardiologist at Allina, about a new study that found Wegovy reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by 20%.
Finding Minnesota
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This Nordic drive-thru in western Minnesota is a popular spot for lefse
We've all been through the coffee and fast-food drive-thrus, but they have nothing on this Evansville business. In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen takes us to a drive-through that's as Nordic as it gets.
"The Mary Tyler Moore Show" continues to leave its mark on Minneapolis half a century later
In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen shows us how an iconic show from the 70s put Minneapolis on the map, and why this year marks a special anniversary in the show's history.
Finding Minnesota: For 4 decades, Dennis Foy has painted commemorative Vikings game footballs
For nearly 40 years, Dennis Foy has been on the receiving end of footballs from the Vikings. They send him dozens each season along with emails about whose name they want on the game ball, and what they want it to say.
Jasper man's old-school windmill collection draws visitors from across the country
In 1999, Terry Rodman built a windmill for his wife, from scratch. Then, to balance things out, he put up a farm windmill — and people around Jasper, took notice.
Mother-daughter duo turns 98-year-old Mobil station into Airbnb
Peterson, Minnesota in Fillmore County is known for bluffs, bike trails and a nearly 100-year-old gas station that now serves a new purpose.
Good Question
More Good Question
Is a dessert bar a cookie?
Heather Brown confers with some culinary experts to find the definitive answer!
Could November's minimal snow total impact December's output? Good Question.
The fluffy four-tenths of an inch that fell last Saturday kept the Twin Cities from notching a record of a snowless November.
Why do we eat turkey on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving gained popularity in the 1800s, eventually becoming a national holiday with cookbooks and newspapers touting recipes.
What is radon? And how does it get into our homes?
A potentially life-threatening gas enters Minnesota homes at higher rates than other states.
Why do people mix up names?
Have you ever called someone the wrong name, or maybe you list off each of your kids before you get to the right one? We've all done it. So, why do we mix up names? Good Question.
Latest Galleries
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Northern Lights in Minnesota: Dec. 1, 2023
For two nights in a row, the northern lights danced overhead in Minnesota and western Wisconsin, and WCCO viewers sent in their best photos.
Northern Lights over Minnesota and Wisconsin: Nov. 30, 2023
Some WCCO viewers shared marvelous photos of Thursday night's northern lights.
Items sold at "The Fashion of Prince" auction
Here's a look at some of the hot items on auction at "The Fashion of Prince."
Minnesota state flag and seal submissions: The good, the bad, and the loony
Minnesota leaders tasked the state's residents with helping to reimagine the state's flag and emblem. The citizenry has delivered, with designs running the gamut of reverent to just plain ridiculous.
Halloween NICU Babies
Lots of people will be out in costumes on Tuesday night, but these babies who are dressed up in the NICU might be the cutest of them all.
Weather
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Mild weekend with chances for light snowfall
A high pressure system will stick around for one more day, bringing a mix of sun and clouds to the state.
What is Next Weather?
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.
NEXT Weather: Morning report on Dec. 2, 2023
It’ll be a mild weekend, but still some chances for snow.
NEXT Weather: 10 p.m. forecast from Dec. 1, 2023
WCCO meteorologist Chris Shaffer has your latest forecast...and the next week will be surprisingly warm! Temps will hang in the 40s.
NEXT Weather: 6 p.m. forecast from Dec. 1, 2023
WCCO meteorologist Chris Shaffer has your latest forecast...and the next week will be surprisingly warm! Temps will hang in the 40s.
Latest Videos
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Latest Videos
WCCO digital headlines: Morning of Dec. 2, 2023
Here are your latest headlines from WCCO.com.
4 things to do today: Dec. 2, 2023
Here are four things you can do today.
Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus hosts holiday performance
For over four decades this group has become engrained in the Twin Cities cultural scene. Click here for more.
My Very Own Bed helps kids get a good night rest
Having a bed to sleep on at night is so important for kids as they grow and develop, which is why My Very Own Bed gives new beds to kids who need them. Click here for more.
NEXT Weather: Morning report on Dec. 2, 2023
It’ll be a mild weekend, but still some chances for snow.