Stories from January 16, 2024

Gov. Tim Walz has rolled out a $982 million infrastructure plan that would pay for state prison fixups and busway expansions. The bulk of the proposal is aimed at state buildings that have fallen into disrepair.
Second justice this month announces retirement from Minnesota Supreme Court
After eight years on Minnesota’s highest court, Justice Margaret Chutich said Tuesday that she will retire this summer. Her announcement comes five days after Justice Barry Anderson announced his intent to retire in May.
Minnesota finds increased health risk from ‘forever chemicals’
The Minnesota Department of Health has lowered the levels at which perfluorinated chemicals in drinking water pose a health risk. Officials said new research shows there is increased health risks from what are known as “forever chemicals.”
Bipartisan tax deal could expand Child Tax Credit and extend business tax breaks
The legislation expands a popular child tax credit and applies to families with multiple children. It also speeds up some tax breaks for research and development expensing for corporations.
'I'm not safe here': Schools ignore federal rules on restraint and seclusion
Federal officials have long warned that restraint and seclusion in schools can be dangerous and traumatizing for children, but school districts often fail to report incidents as required by law.
Ahead of legislative session, Walz pitches $982 million in public construction projects
The rollout sets the table for months of debate at the Capitol over a capital investment bill. Lawmakers said high inflation and tight budget forecasts led them to propose a slimmer proposal.
New Year's resolution? No thanks. Nora McInerny on ending the constant self-improvement cycle
We’re just over two weeks into the new year. It’s a time when ads promoting diet culture and self-improvement run wild across the internet. A time that tells you whoever, you are, you need to be better. Starting now.
No joke: Feds are banning humorous electronic messages on highways
Administration officials say electronic signs with obscure meanings, references to pop culture or those intended to be funny will be banned in 2026 because they can be misunderstood or distracting.
Walz to announce infrastructure plan for 2024
On Tuesday, Governor Tim Walz will lay out his administration’s infrastructure plan and bonding proposal ahead of the legislative session. The biggest item on the legislative agenda is approving a cash-and-borrowing package for a slate of state agency and local projects.
A brutally cold night in Iowa made for a low-turnout caucus. What's next for a shrinking Republican field?
The presidential nomination race is shifting ahead to New Hampshire after former President Donald Trump’s convincing win in Iowa Monday night. Minnesota voters will soon have their turn but there could be very few candidates still standing by the time Minnesota ballots get counted.
Minnesota equal rights amendment revamped to include protections for abortion, gender care
For years, supporters of the equal rights amendment have sought to include new protections in the Minnesota Constitution. With a new tweak, DFL leaders say this could be the year it moves to the ballot.
Getting to Green in Minnesota
The climate crisis means we all need to think in new ways about how we heat our homes, get around and a whole lot more. MPR News correspondents Dan Kraker and Kirsti Marohn guest host the first of three shows focused on what the energy transition could look like in Minnesota.
Fleury's milestone gives Wild another reason to celebrate the NHL's second-winningest goalie
Marc-Andre Fleury has 552 wins for second place on the NHL's career list. Minnesota Wild players rushed to the crease for a group hug with the 39-year-old goalie after their 5-0 victory over the New York Islanders that pushed him past Patrick Roy. 
Analysis: At halftime of the NBA season, the Thunder and Wolves should be feeling great
Being good at the halfway point of the NBA season guarantees absolutely nothing. A lot can and will change between now and April. That said, there are some surprises as this season hits halftime none are bigger than the success stories being crafted in Minnesota and Oklahoma City.
Our neighbors in Iowa cast the first votes in the presidential nominating contest last night. Former President Donald Trump easily won the Republican caucuses. Back in Minnesota, Gov. Tim Walz outlines his proposal Tuesday to fund public construction projects.
Emmy moments: 'Succession' succeeds, 'The Bear' eats it up, and a show wraps on time, thanks to Mom
The 75th Emmy Awards piled honors on three main shows Monday, while delivering a nostalgia-filled night with popular presenters and cast reunions. And somewhat surprisingly, the show ended on time — thanks to host Anthony Anderson and his secret weapon.
Fleury, Wild blank Islanders 5-0
Marc-Andre Fleury took sole possession of second place with his 552nd win in the NHL, posting his 74th career shutout as the Minnesota Wild beat the New York Islanders 5-0 on Monday.
War in Gaza is testing Israel's economy. A 2nd front against Hezbollah could break it
Israel's military has closed towns and workplaces near the Lebanon border and 60,000 residents have fled, freezing the regional economy. But a full-blown war with Hezbollah could affect all of Israel.
Zelenskyy takes center stage in Davos as he tries to rally support for Ukraine
Zelenskyy is headlining a frenzied first full day of the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in the Swiss resort, where officials from the U.S., EU, China and Middle East will also be prominent.