Business and Economic News

Xcel Energy will ask state regulators to reconsider electric rate hike
Xcel says it will reevaluate its investments in the clean energy transition and is withdrawing a proposal to build a network of more than 700 electric vehicle charging stations.
Do Allina Health’s alleged billing practices violate MN law? The attorney general is looking into it
On Thursday, the New York Times published an investigation into Allina’s billing practices. The story alleges the company refused to provide certain types of care for patients with at least $4,500 in medical debt. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison asks those who’ve experienced “aggressive billing practices” at Allina Health to contact his office.
HyLife plant closes in Windom; company says new buyer doesn't intend to retain workers
More than 1,000 workers will lose their jobs in the plant closure, including half who are in the U.S. on work visas connected to employment at the company. The City of Windom and social service agencies are working to help employees.
State regulators approve 9 percent electric rate increase for Xcel Energy
Xcel has said it needs the increase to cover the costs of replacing an aging electrical system as it transitions to more renewable energy. But it comes at a time when many Minnesotans are struggling to pay their rising utility costs.
More than a thousand workers at the Windom hog slaughtering plant, Hylife, face their last day of work Friday. MPR News Host Cathy Wurzer talked with Gabby Nelson and Maria Guerrero, who are helping workers affected by the Windom Hylife plant layoffs.
Facebook, Instagram to block news stories in California if bill passes
From Australia to Canada, Big Tech has resisted lawmakers' efforts to force them to pay news publishers for carrying their articles. Now, that battle is playing out in California.