Business and Economic News

Congress seals agreement on $900 billion COVID relief bill
The agreement would establish a temporary $300 per week supplemental jobless benefit, and send $600 direct stimulus payments to most Americans. It also would provide a new round of subsidies for hard-hit businesses and money for schools, health care providers and renters facing eviction.
Want to move? Some cities will pay you $10,000 to relocate
$10,000 is a significant chunk of money. But is it enough to convince you to pick up and move to an entirely different part of the country? Some cities and regions in America's heartland are offering that sum — and more — to attract new residents.
Minnesota regulators on Saturday told three more establishments that they face 60-day liquor license suspensions for continuing indoor, in-person bar and restaurant service in violation of state pandemic rules.
Deal on Fed removes obstacle to agreement on COVID relief package
Top congressional lawmakers struck a late-night agreement on the last major obstacle to a COVID-19 economic relief package costing nearly $1 trillion, clearing the way for votes as early as Sunday.
Congress stuck, again, in quest to pass COVID relief
Congressional leaders returned to familiar ground Saturday, digging in on opposite sides of a stalemate over a coronavirus relief package they all say is badly needed to help struggling Americans.
AP: States spent more than $7 billion competing for supplies in early days of pandemic
The analysis shows how much states were spending during a chaotic spring when inadequate national stockpiles left states scrambling for hard-to-get supplies. Much of the buying happened outside normal competitive bidding procedures.
Minnesota moves ahead with 'clean car' rules
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency plans to publish a draft rule on Monday requiring carmakers to make more zero-emissions vehicles available for sale in the state. The goal is to reduce Minnesota’s greenhouse gas emissions, but auto dealers and some lawmakers argue it will drive up the cost of cars and trucks.
State cracking down on bars and restaurants opening against order
Bars and restaurants around Minnesota that opened in violation of Gov. Tim Walz’s order banning inside dining and drinking are finding out there is no negotiation around the restrictions. The attorney general’s office is contacting them one by one, threatening big fines and liquor license suspensions for noncompliance.
The rapidly changing world of podcasts
Why are podcasts so popular? What makes a good podcast? And can just anyone produce a hit? Guest host Chris Farrell talks with industry experts about the past, present and future of podcasts and podcasting.
Minnesota public safety officials have issued another liquor license suspension notice as more businesses are defying Gov. Tim Walz’s executive order barring indoor service at restaurants and bars to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.