Minnesota Debates AI Legal Weed and Power Shutoffs

University Instructors Weigh In on AI in the Classroom

Generative AI is a topic of hot debate, especially for those in creative and academic fields. While the University of Minnesota has officially partnered with AI tools like NotebookLM and Google Gemini, individual instructors are navigating this new territory with caution and pragmatism.

According to a report from the Minnesota Daily, faculty members are struggling to define the role of AI in their classrooms. Rather than trying to ban it outright, many are adapting their approach. Jack Christian, an associate professor of first-year writing, states, "if I am actually grading an assignment, and I am pretty sure AI has been used, I still try to grade the assignment on its merits."

Nat Bennett, a senior lecturer at the Carlson School of Management, believes it's unrealistic to create an "artificial intelligence hermetically sealed chamber," given that students will encounter these tools in their future careers. He isn't overly concerned about cheating, noting that AI is currently "really good at C minus level writing."

Ultimately, the responsibility may lie with the students. As journalism senior lecturer Gayle Golden puts it, "it is up to the individual student to decide whether AI is deployed to make the ‘sail’ through college, or whether it’s deployed to help the student develop a critical mind." It's a pragmatic approach for overworked educators focusing on students who are genuinely engaged.

Navigating Free Expression After Charlie Kirk

In the wake of the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, the discourse around free expression has become tense. Here are three developments relevant to Minnesotans, presented with caution.

First, Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk founded, is proceeding with its "American Comeback Tour" event scheduled for next Monday at the University of Minnesota's Northrop auditorium. Commentator Michael Knowles is set to replace Kirk for a discussion on conservative values and a live Q&A session.

Second, State Sen. Nathan Wesenberg (R-Little Falls) has announced his intention to propose legislation that would use Legacy Amendment funds to erect a statue of Charlie Kirk on the U of M campus. According to his press release, Wesenberg says, "The statue will symbolize Minnesota's commitment to free expression and the principle that we resolve our differences with words, not force."

Finally, Turning Point USA's Professor Watchlist, a site that has been criticized for creating a hostile environment for academics, continues to list eight professors from the University of Minnesota, among others from institutions across the state.

Recreational Cannabis Sales Begin in Minnesota

Minnesota has officially entered the era of legal recreational cannabis sales. Medical marijuana providers are now permitted to sell to all adults. Green Goods began recreational sales at its eight locations on Tuesday, and RISE Dispensaries held grand openings for five of its locations on Wednesday.

Adding to the milestones, Legacy Cannabis in Duluth became the first state-licensed microbusiness to open its doors to recreational buyers. As expected, public excitement is high. Matthew LaFlex, an early customer at RISE’s Eagan store, told MPR News, “It's like one of those things I never thought was gonna happen in my state. So now that it's finally happening, I'm jumping for joy.”

However, this legal access comes at a premium. Axios Twin Cities reports that 3.5-gram containers of flower are priced between $40 and $50. After Minnesota's new cannabis tax, the final cost jumps to nearly $50 to $62. This is significantly higher than the illicit market, where a similar quantity can reportedly be purchased for under $30.

Xcel Energy Under Fire for Remote Power Shutoffs

Xcel Energy's recent adoption of smart meters, which allow for remote utility disconnections, has led to a dramatic increase in power shut-offs across Minnesota. A report from the Star Tribune reveals that while Xcel previously cut service to less than 10% of eligible customers, that figure has now surged to 29%.

This new efficiency has affected a record number of households, with 52,549 shut-offs last year. Compounding the issue, the average debt owed by past-due customers has nearly doubled since 2019, making it increasingly difficult for families to recover financially. A 2023 University of Minnesota study also found that households of color are three times more likely to experience a power shut-off, regardless of income.

While Xcel claims the remote system is safer and cheaper, these savings are not being passed on to consumers. On the contrary, the company has requested a rate increase from regulators. This comes as the company doubled its CEO's salary in 2023 and remains one of the most active lobbyists in the state.