Minnesota Now with Nina Moini

Minnesota Now: July 7, 2026

Nina Moini from Minnesota Now
Nina Moini.
Chris McDuffie for MPR News

It has been six months since the state rolled out paid family leave. And there are new numbers on how many people are taking advantage of the program.

Plus, there are newly unsealed documents in a DOJ investigation into the local response to Operation Metro Surge.

More kids are turning to AI companions, and the University of Minnesota is looking into why and what impact that could have on mental health and more.

Plus, a north Minneapolis public housing development is under scrutiny over deteriorating conditions.

We'll get the latest on tornado damage in northwest Minnesota.

And, the World Cup has brought a business boom for local bars and breweries. We'll check in with one soccer bar that's been hosting watch parties.

Our Minnesota Music Minute was “Radio” by Laura Hugo, and our Song of the Day was "Mona Lisa” by Nat King Cole.

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.

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