Minnesota News

MPR News is your go-to source for Minnesota news and stories.

From local stories from your Minnesota neighbors to breaking news updates across the state, we have you covered.

Red pine shoot moths leaving their mark across much of Minnesota
If you live near red pine trees — and in much of Minnesota, chances are you do — you may have noticed some dead, brown patches in the upper branches this summer. They're proof of a moth outbreak the likes of which the state hasn’t seen in more than 20 years.
Wild's Dumba speaks out against racial injustice as NHL resumes season
Minnesota’s Matt Dumba became the first NHL player to kneel during the U.S. national anthem when he did so before Saturday's opening playoff game. “Racism is everywhere, and we need to fight against it,” he said. “We will fight against injustice. … Hockey is a great game, but it could be a whole lot greater, and it starts with all of us.”
Opponents of statewide mask mandate rally at Minnesota Capitol
A week after Minnesota's face mask mandate took effect, opponents gathered on the grounds of the State Capitol on Saturday to criticize Gov. Tim Walz's executive order.
Aug. 1 update on COVID-19 in MN: August begins with more concerning virus trends
Minnesota enters another month of the coronavirus pandemic with cases and hospitalizations on the rise. The number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 in Minnesota rose to 317 in Saturday’s report — the highest level in more than a month.
End of federal $600 unemployment benefit leaves Minnesotans anxious
Tens of thousands of Minnesotans who have lost their jobs due to the coronavirus pandemic have relied on an extra $600 weekly unemployment payment from the federal government to make ends meet. But that extra cash benefit expires Friday.
Minneapolis limits bar service as people crowd too close together in some establishments
With COVID-19 cases on the rise in Minneapolis, Mayor Jacob Frey is imposing new restrictions on bars. The emergency order takes effect Saturday evening. It does not close the establishments entirely, but they’ll be table service only. Patrons will no longer be able to sit at the counter.
July 30 update on COVID-19 in MN: 745 new cases, 5 more deaths; Walz unveils schools plan
The newest numbers come as Gov. Tim Walz calls for returning to in-person classroom teaching but leaving it to districts to decide whether their school systems will start the year in buildings, online or some combination based on their local COVID-19 conditions.
July 29 update on COVID-19 in MN: As hospitalizations climb, a plea to 'do the right thing'
Ending the outbreak largely depends on individual Minnesotans acting responsibly, the state’s infectious disease director said Wednesday. Separately, Minneapolis said it will again shut down indoor bar service to check the spread.