Jessie Van Berkel
Reporter
Social ServicesShe has worked for the paper since 2014, primarily covering state government and politics. She has also reported on the city of St. Paul and the Twin Cities’ southern suburbs.
Jessie previously wrote for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, The Post-Crescent, The Seattle Times, The Oregonian and MinnPost. She graduated from the University of Minnesota. Outside of work, she can usually be found planning her next trip, outdoor adventure or cooking project.
Latest from Jessie Van Berkel
News & Politics
Abrupt closure of one of Minnesota’s largest peer recovery providers leaves hundreds in limbo
The state has been investigating substance use disorder service provider Kyros amid billing fraud allegations. Other recovery organizations are scrambling to help its vulnerable clients and staff.
September 28, 2024
News & Politics
Many people in jail have an opioid addiction, but less than half of jails offer medication, study shows
Minnesota is seeking a Medicaid waiver to help cover incarcerated people’s health care, including substance use treatment, and has a new workgroup focused on the problem.
September 25, 2024
Politics
Minnesota Medicaid fraud investigators examining more autism service providers
The state is looking into 29 providers of early intervention services, up from 15 investigations in July. State officials say they are considering additional oversight.
September 18, 2024
News & Politics
Facing death, Duluth woman discovers Medicaid services bill comes due posthumously
The government uses the property of some people receiving long-term services and supports under Medical Assistance to recover costs after they die. Minnesota collected $61 million last year through estate recovery and liens.
September 15, 2024
News & Politics
Minnesota needs to help older adults live well. Is a Department on Aging the answer?
Advocates say the state needs to do more to plan for and support a fast-growing population of older residents. Lawmakers are considering a new state agency.
August 29, 2024
Politics
Minnesota re-examines guardianships: ‘They took away her rights’
Court-appointed guardians are calling the shots for a growing number of aging Minnesotans. The controversial role is in the spotlight as the Legislative Auditor’s Office and a new task force look into changes.
August 24, 2024
News & Politics
Meet the Walzes: Wife Gwen, two kids round out Minnesota’s first family
The governor’s wife, Gwen Walz, is also a former teacher and has been an advocate for criminal justice, education and gun control during Walz’s time at the Capitol. They have two kids, Hope and Gus.
August 22, 2024
News & Politics
Minnesota delays overhaul of child-care licensing rules after backlash
Care providers feared the regulations could lead to closures. DHS is holding off for a year on proposing new standards to lawmakers as it gathers feedback.
August 13, 2024
News & Politics
Minnesota needs to help older adults live well. Is a Department on Aging the answer?
Advocates say the state needs to do more to plan for and support a fast-growing population of older residents. Lawmakers are considering a new state agency.
August 29, 2024
Politics
Minnesota re-examines guardianships: ‘They took away her rights’
Court-appointed guardians are calling the shots for a growing number of aging Minnesotans. The controversial role is in the spotlight as the Legislative Auditor’s Office and a new task force look into changes.
August 24, 2024
News & Politics
Meet the Walzes: Wife Gwen, two kids round out Minnesota’s first family
The governor’s wife, Gwen Walz, is also a former teacher and has been an advocate for criminal justice, education and gun control during Walz’s time at the Capitol. They have two kids, Hope and Gus.
August 22, 2024
News & Politics
Minnesota delays overhaul of child-care licensing rules after backlash
Care providers feared the regulations could lead to closures. DHS is holding off for a year on proposing new standards to lawmakers as it gathers feedback.
August 13, 2024