Social Issues

Biden administration says fentanyl-xylazine cocktail is a deadly national threat
The White House says drug deaths linked to a mix of synthetic drugs including fentanyl and xylazine — also known as tranq — are a major public health threat. The drug cocktail is spreading fast.
Marijuana bill within sight of up-or-down votes at Minnesota Capitol
The bill to make marijuana legal is down to its final few committees ahead of pivotal votes in the Minnesota Legislature. Those floor debates could happen yet this month, although more negotiations lie ahead. 
Researchers reveal U’s painful past with Minnesota’s Indigenous people
A massive new report details the University of Minnesota’s long history of mistreating the state’s Native people and lays out recommendations, including “perpetual reparations,” to improve relations between the U and Minnesota’s 11 tribal nations. 
The Dalai Lama apologizes for asking a young boy to suck his tongue
The 87-year-old Buddhist high priest says he “regrets” kissing a young boy on the lips and asking him to "suck my tongue." A video capturing the incident went viral on social media, sparking outrage.
Some ‘cautiously hopeful’ state oversight will lead to changes in Minneapolis police
A court-enforceable agreement between the city of Minneapolis and the state requires ambitious changes to how the Minneapolis Police Department functions. But achieving the goals of the agreement is going to require courageous leadership from elected officials and committed engagement from the public.
Minnesota may soon OK free menstrual products in schools. These teens led the way
High school students pressed lawmakers for years to act, detailing the practical indignities of dealing with periods at school. With a bill poised to pass the Legislature this year, the teens say they’ve learned lessons on power, persistence and making change.