Minnesota Today 11/17/25
Here are some of the top regional news stories from Minnesota for Monday, November 17, 2025
1. Food shelves brace despite shutdown ending
ECHO Food Shelf and other food-pantries statewide are preparing for a surge in need heading into the holidays, even though the federal government shutdown has ended. Nonprofit leaders say that volunteer support — not just monetary donations — is critically needed. MPR News
Why it matters: The shutdown had interrupted many programs and it may take some time for assistance to fully stabilize — meaning food-shelves are likely to face increased demand just as holiday pressures mount.
2. Wintry mix moving in — rain / snow watch
Parts of Minnesota are under a weather watch as a slushy mix of rain and snow moves in Monday night into Tuesday morning. CBS News+2FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul+2
Tip: If you’re traveling or commuting in southern Minnesota or near the Twin Cities tonight, give yourself extra time, check roads, and watch for changing conditions.
3. Major disagreement at University of Minnesota over health-care deal
The university’s Board of Regents has passed a resolution expressing serious concerns with the deal struck between University of Minnesota Physicians (UMP) and Fairview Health Services. They argue it was negotiated without sufficient faculty input and could hamper the university’s teaching, research, and statewide community outreach functions. Star Tribune
Takeaway: This could have long-term implications for healthcare delivery, medical education, and research funding in Minnesota.
4. New digital-privacy law changes holiday-shopping dynamics
A new Minnesota digital privacy law is influencing how retailers target shoppers and how consumers should approach online holiday deals and ads.
Consumer alert: Keep an eye on how your data is used by advertisers and make sure you understand how the new protections might affect promotions and tracking.
5. Legislative turnover heats up
In 2025, the state legislature experienced six special elections, due to resignations, controversies and unexpected deaths, leaving full membership rare for much of the year.
Political angle: Ongoing turnover can affect how smoothly legislation is passed and may shift power dynamics ahead of the 2026 election cycle.