Minnesota senator burglary trial update; Sartell City Council member charged with driving while intoxicated

In this episode of Minnesota Today, hosts Emily Reese and Kristi Morone deliver significant news surrounding a local senator's legal troubles and recent developments in state legislation that impacts healthcare costs. Here's a breakdown of the major topics discussed.

Senator Nicole Mitchell's Burglary Trial Update

Rescheduled Trial Date

• Background: DFL Senator Nicole Mitchell has been entangled in a burglary trial following her arrest in April at her stepmother's home. The charges stem from allegations of stealing items belonging to her late father.
• Current Status: The trial, initially set to begin today, has been postponed to June 16. A motion by the defense team highlighted Minnesota law that protects legislators from being compelled into trials during a legislative session.
• Mitchell's Position: Senator Mitchell maintains her innocence, describing the incident as a misunderstanding, adding an element of personal and political drama amid the continuous power struggles at the Capitol between the DFL and GOP.

Healthcare Update: Insulin Cost Cap

Major Settlement Announcement

• New Legislation: Attorney General Keith Ellison announced a settlement resulting in a cap on the cost of insulin at $35 per month for all major providers in Minnesota, including Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk.
• Impact on Residents: This significant change is expected to save Minnesotans thousands annually on insulin, addressing urgent concerns over unaffordable healthcare costs.
• Background of the Lawsuit: The lawsuit that led to this settlement, filed against insulin manufacturers in 2018, claimed these companies were artificially inflating drug prices. With this settlement, the price cap will remain effective for the next five years.

Sartell City Council Member Charged with DUI

Recent Incident Involving Rustin Dieters

• Details of the Arrest: Rustin Dieters, recently sworn into office as a Sartell City Council member, was charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). His vehicle was pulled over after it was observed crossing lane lines multiple times.
• Findings: Upon being stopped, Dieters exhibited signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. A preliminary breath test showed a blood alcohol content of 0.13, above Minnesota's legal limit.
• Legal Ramifications: He faces charges of refusing to take an official breath test, categorized as a gross misdemeanor, and another for driving under the influence.

Weather Outlook

Upcoming Snowfall in Northern Minnesota

• Weather Forecast: Minnesota is bracing for snow as two clipper systems are expected to hit the northern part of the state. Preliminary forecasts project various amounts of snowfall, including:
  • Up to 1 inch in Duluth
  • 1 to 3 inches for cities like Hibbing
  • 3 to 6 inches possible in parts of the Arrowhead region, notably Gram-Ray and Graham Portage.
• Central and Southern Minnesota: These areas are likely to remain dry, with more precipitation forecasted in the coming weekend.

Sports Highlights

Local Teams in Action

• Minnesota Wild: The Wild secured a victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, winning 4 to 2. They are set to play the Maple Leafs next.
• Minnesota Frost: This team achieved a strong win against the Boston Fleet, defeating them 5 to 2, and will host the Toronto Sceptors shortly.
• Gophers Basketball: The women's team triumphed over Wisconsin and prepares to face USC, while the men’s team is gearing up for a clash against the eighth-ranked Michigan State.

Tonight's Weather Forecast

• Conditions: Expect increasing clouds tonight with lows ranging from 20 to 25 degrees. Cooler temperatures are anticipated along Lake Superior.
• Tomorrow's Outlook: Partly sunny skies with potential snow in the northern regions, and highs in the 30s to 40s across the state.

Conclusion

This episode of Minnesota Today provides crucial updates on local legislation affecting healthcare and highlights incidents involving public officials that raise questions about accountability and governance. With developments in weather patterns and local sports, it captures the broader dynamic of life in Minnesota today.