Blog Archive: May 2023

​​DVS multilingual virtual assistant answers questions for all Minnesotans

May 30

Somali community member Yasmin Aden saw her parents' eyes light up just weeks ago when they tried the new Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) virtual assistant for the first time. “I'm incredibly excited for the new virtual assistant because it's a step forward for digital equity...​

​​​​​​​Minnesota State Patrol fosters family’s ‘passion to serve’

May 25

When Tim Vaagenes stepped forward on Tuesday to accept his Minnesota State Patrol badge, the joy and pride his family felt was palpable. His wife, Trooper Sarah Vaagenes, pinned on the badge and the two shared a respectful handshake before breaking out into grins...

​​​​​​​DVS getting ready for Driver’s License for All

​May 22

Having a licensed driver can make or break a family's budget. The ability to drive legally can let you take a higher-paying job further away, open a bank account to avoid high check-cashing fees or buy car insurance. The staff in our Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division know how important those licenses can be. That's why they are already hard at work...

​Helping teens drive smart during season of prom, grad parties, summer fun

May 18

Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) coordinator Jessica Schleck isn't afraid to get a little silly if it means starting the right conversation. Schleck works with schools and student groups in Dodge County to remind students how to keep themselves and their friends safe behind the wheel...

​​​​‘Car seats are lifes​avers:’ Find a car seat installer to make sure your ​kids are safe

May 15

A properly installed car seat can be life or death for a child in a crash. “Car seats are lifesavers," said Sue Rasmussen of the St. Louis Park Fire Department. “Having a car seat that fits the child and is installed correctly is the key to their safety." Law enforcement agencies across the state will be doing extra seat belt and child restraint enforcement starting May 22 for the Click It or Ticket campaign...

​Minnesota State Patrol, partners crack down on street racing​​​​​

May 11

Earlier this year, a Minnesota State Patrol trooper watched as three vehicles slowed traffic on I-494, lined up, then raced at speeds of more than 100 mph down the interstate. Troopers stopped two of the three vehicles and cited two drivers for reckless driving...

​​​​​911 is calling. Will you answer?

May 8

The first, first responders don't fight fires, drive an ambulance or wear a badge. But they will be there to answer your call on one of your worst days. We are talking about 911 dispatchers, also known professionally as public safety telecommunicators. These are people with a desire to serve and improve their communities using their own unique skills...

​ ​​​​New MMIR logo brings renewed awareness and hope for the future

May 4

The staff in our Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Office have seen first-hand how the epidemic of violence against Indigenous people has devastated families in Minnesota. That's why we are pleased to unveil a new logo incorporating colors and imagery important to the Indigenous peoples of our state...

​​​​​OTS: Look before you lock to save your child’s life​

May 1

You would never forget your baby in the car. Would you? Mothers, fathers, caregivers — anyone is susceptible to forgetfulness. We live in a fast-paced society, and our routines are often upended at a moment's notice. It is during these moments of hurriedness and change in routine...

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​ More: April Blog Archive​​