Today in Minot

At a time when political fights make the biggest headlines, a group of Minnesota lawmakers is quietly trying something different—talking, listening, and even singing karaoke together. The Civility Caucus, a bipartisan effort to build relationships across party lines, believes that personal connections make governing more effective. In a divided legislature, their work may not grab attention, but it could be the key to breaking gridlock. As big policy battles loom, these lawmakers are betting that mutual respect can still get things done. Get the full story from Minnesota Public Radio.

After a decade in business, Proof Artisan Distillers has plenty to celebrate—but also plenty to navigate. While the Fargo-based distillery prides itself on using local ingredients, its bottles come from elsewhere, and ongoing supply chain uncertainty has made sourcing them a challenge. Meanwhile, shifting alcohol trends have pushed Proof to adapt, including partnerships like its collaboration with heavy metal band Motörhead. For founder Joel Kath, the key lesson is clear: success in spirits isn’t just about distilling—it’s about smart branding and staying ahead of the curve.

Editors Note: Why does this matter in Minot? We share a steady diet of small scale economic development that’s quietly at work in North Dakota. It’ starts as tiny businesses that find success through local niches and savvy leadership. This is the model of economic development Minot and North Dakota needs to pursue. Swinging for grand slams and multinational value added food producers is an all or nothing wager. When it comes to how local economies develop, small ball produces better, more sustainable results.

North Dakota lawmakers have decided to keep their time in session limited—for now. A proposal to expand the Legislature’s meeting days from 80 to 100 per biennium failed in the House, falling short by six votes. The change would have required voter approval, but opposition in committee and on the floor kept it from advancing. Meanwhile, a separate bill that would shift the state to annual legislative sessions without increasing total meeting days is still in play, awaiting a Senate hearing. Grant Coursey with the Bismarck Tribune has the full story. Bill details are below.

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Minot State University is bucking the trend of declining college enrollments, marking its third consecutive year of growth. With 67 new students this semester—ranging from transfer students to local high school graduates—MSU continues to attract more learners. School officials credit the expansion of academic programs and affordability as key factors in its steady rise. KX News has the story that includes a quote from director of enrollment services, Michelle Sayler.

State funding for Prairie Public Broadcasting remains uncertain after the North Dakota Senate rejected a bill banning public dollars for the network. While the vote spared Prairie Public from an outright funding ban, some lawmakers still want to cut its support through the state budget process. Supporters argue the network provides valuable local programming, emergency communication infrastructure, and educational content. With millions in planned upgrades ahead, Prairie Public leaders warn that losing state funds won’t shut them down—but it could mean less local programming for North Dakotans.

After nearly a century, Dickinson Public Schools is retiring its longtime “Midgets” mascot, a decision aimed at fostering inclusivity and avoiding legal risks. While the name’s exact origins remain debated, concerns over its impact on students and potential civil rights challenges prompted district leaders to act. The transition will be phased in alongside planned renovations to minimize costs, and the community will help choose a new mascot. For many, this marks the end of a tradition—but also the beginning of a new chapter for Dickinson High School.

James Miller with the Dickinson Press has the full story.

North Dakota’s top young innovators put their skills to the test at Bismarck State College, where 140 students from 16 schools competed in the Technology Student Association State Conference. From coding and drone navigation to structural design, these students tackled real-world challenges with precision and creativity—all for a shot at the national stage in Nashville. A surprise visit from Governor Kelly Armstrong added to the energy. The event wraps up today. KX News has the full story.

Who should decide how public education dollars are spent—the government or parents? That question took center stage in Bismarck as lawmakers debated a bill that would direct $40 million in state funds toward private school tuition. Supporters call it a victory for school choice, giving families more options. Critics argue it violates the state constitution and diverts money from public schools. After hours of testimony, the Senate Education Committee made no decision, leaving the future of the bill—and the broader debate—uncertain.

Kjersti Maday with Inforum has the latest news on HB1540; SB 2400 touches the same topic and has a hearing today.

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North Dakota lawmakers are testing the limits—term limits, that is. Just two years after voters approved an eight-year cap on legislative service, the Senate has narrowly advanced a resolution that could double that limit to 16 years. Supporters call it a practical update, while opponents argue it undermines the will of the voters. With nearly half of sitting legislators set to term out by 2028, the stakes are high. Now, the House must decide whether to send this question back to the ballot.

Peyton Haug with Inforum.com has the full story on SCR 4008, the bill that’s moving forward. SCR 4028 and HCR 3034 both touched the topic but have failed.

Egg prices in the U.S. have soared, and the government is searching for solutions. Just across the border, Canada seems to have cracked the code—its egg supply remains steady and affordable. The difference? Smaller farms, a tightly managed supply system, and fewer free-range birds exposed to avian flu. Meanwhile, the U.S. industry, built for volume and efficiency, has left itself vulnerable to sudden disruptions. With Easter approaching and demand rising, policymakers are eyeing Canada’s model—or at least its eggs—for relief.

Minot Mayor Tom Ross is under investigation, but details remain undisclosed. The inquiry began in late January, and city officials have cited state law in withholding records until mid-April. Meanwhile, Minot representatives recently supported legislation that would have restricted public access to personnel records, though the bill failed in the Senate. City Manager Harold Stewart denies any connection between the two matters. Rob Port with Inforum provides more context on the developing story.