Business and Economic News

Lawmakers poised to miss deadline to block business tax hikes
A plan to plug a hole in the state’s unemployment fund is stalled and now appears unlikely to pass by a fast-approaching deadline of Tuesday. That could mean higher taxes on virtually all employers if the Legislature doesn’t find a workaround. 
War in Ukraine complicates war on climate change
Global leaders are calling for increased oil production outside of Russia at a time when scientists say the time to act on climate change is now.
As gas prices surge, here's how to get the most out of your tank
As U.S. gas prices hit record highs, it's an especially good time to improve your car's fuel economy. Keeping windows closed, avoiding high speeds and getting routine tuneups can all help.
Walz urges Congress to pause 18-cents-a-gallon gas tax
Gov. Tim Walz joined five other Democratic governors Tuesday in urging Congress to pause the 18.4-cents-a-gallon federal gasoline tax for the rest of the year to alleviate pump prices that exceed $4 per gallon.
President Joe Biden has announced that the U.S. will ban all Russian oil imports, toughening the toll on Russia’s economy in retaliation for its invasion of Ukraine. 
Threat of deadly virus keeps poultry farmers on edge
Turkey and chicken producers say they’ve adopted stricter biosecurity measures since 2015, when highly pathogenic avian influenza was responsible for 9 million bird deaths in Minnesota.
Minnesota lawmakers at odds over drought relief package
Minnesota farmers and ranchers still reeling from last summer's drought are asking the Legislature for urgency on relief, though lawmakers on either side of the aisle have yet to agree on what a final package should look like.