Business and Economic News

Pandemic pay panel inches toward agreement
Weeks behind schedule, a panel is moving slowly toward agreement on which Minnesota essential workers should be rewarded for duty during the pandemic. The deal isn't done and the package is tangled up in other COVID-19 politics. But those involved in talks hope checks can go out before the year ends. 
small change: Money Stories from the Neighborhood
MPR News host Angela Davis talks with Chris Farrell and Twila Dang about season two of their podcast … small change: Money Stories from the Neighborhood. 
Retail jobs are treated as a temporary bridge to something better. But why?
At any moment, some 15 million Americans work in retail. Many stay for years. Now companies face a labor crunch, and workers wish these jobs were designed as durable careers.
Cash bonuses and free lunches: No end in sight to labor shortage
Businesses continue to struggle to fill open positions, and many have had to scale back because they can't find enough workers. Despite hiring bonuses and the end of enhanced unemployment benefits, the labor shortage that preceded the pandemic is not letting up.
Minnesota DNR launches new hearing process for PolyMet mine
Minnesota regulators have launched a court-ordered process for assessing the risks to clean water from waste from the proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota.
How apples became a symbol of Minnesota
Whether you prefer Honeycrisp, Haralsons or SweeTango, apples are a symbol of autumn in Minnesota. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with an apple breeder, an orchard owner and a chef about breeding, growing and eating the iconic fruit.
Walz proposes drought relief for farmers
Gov. Tim Walz has announced his plan to help farmers who were hurt by this year's drought. He wants it passed in a special session sometime next month.
As mountain biking booms in Minnesota, pro builders help meet the demand for trails
Minnesota is in the midst of a mountain bike trail-building boom. In just the past few years, more than 100 miles of single-track trails have been built in the northeastern corner of the state. And as the trail mileage has grown, so have the number of niche companies that have sprouted up to build them.