Here are the top five stories you need to know today, as found on InForum:
Starting this week, students in Fargo Public Schools will have access to free lunch and breakfast thanks to a new program aimed at fighting childhood hunger. The program is open to all students regardless of family income.
"We're excited about this opportunity," said Superintendent Dr. Rupak Gandhi in a statement. "We believe that by providing access to nutritious meals, we can help our students be better prepared for learning."
A broken rail caused delays and cancellations for Amtrak passengers traveling between St. Paul and Chicago yesterday afternoon. According to Amtrak officials, crews were able to make repairs overnight and trains are running normally again today.
No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled yesterday that local governments cannot impose property taxes on nonprofit organizations if those organizations use their properties for "specified concepts."
This ruling comes after several years of legal battles between the city of St. Paul and two churches who claimed they should be tax-exempt because they used their properties for religious purposes.
Speaking of "specified concepts," it turns out they're not just important for tax exemptions but also when it comes to writing legislation in North Dakota.
Yesterday, Republican lawmakers introduced a bill that would require any proposed legislation containing "specified concepts" - like critical race theory or gender identity - be clearly defined within the text of the bill itself.
Critics say this move could limit discussion around complex issues while supporters argue it's necessary for transparency in government.
Good news: North Dakota saw fewer deaths from COVID-19 last week than any other week since October!
According to the state health department, there were 10 COVID-19 deaths reported in North Dakota last week. While any loss of life is tragic, this decrease is a positive sign that vaccinations and other mitigation efforts are paying off.