BCA takes over maintenance of breathalyzer machines after errors deem tests invalid

Minnesota and its Jewish community watched from afar Monday the return of 20 surviving hostages to their families in Israel. Hamas released the 20 who had been held in captivity in Gaza for over two years. Israel freed nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees in return.

The state’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is taking over the maintenance of breathalyzer machines from local police departments after calibration errors rendered hundreds of alcohol tests legally invalid.

The Crosby Fire was reported 70 percent contained Monday. The size of the fire is around 300 acres, and it started when lightning struck in the area last Wednesday on a remote ridge within George H. Crosby Manitou State Park. Firefighters spent the day checking containment lines and mopping up hot spots.

Officials at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport expect a busy week as families travel for the annual MEA school break. But the government shutdown could cause delays. Airports have reported understaffing in TSA lines as some agents stay home, instead of working without pay. MSP officials are advising travelers to keep an eye on delays and conditions at their destination airports.

Another prominent Democrat in the Minnesota Legislature has announced he will retire at the end of his term. Sen. Jim Carlson says he will step down next year after nearly 20 years in the Legislature. Carlson chairs the Senate Elections Committee and has represented Eagan and nearby suburbs for five terms. Sen. Ann Rest of New Hope previously announced she will step down after 40 years at the Capitol.

Go deeper with the latest edition of the Minnesota Today newsletter.

Hundreds of DWI cases in doubt after breathalyzer goof

North Shore wildfire now 70% contained. Hiking trail remains closed

MEA school break crowds take off at MSP, with shutdown looming over air travel

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