Business and Economic News

OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma pleads guilty in criminal case
OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma has pleaded guilty to criminal charges and formally admitted its role in the opioid crisis. Tuesday's plea before a judge in Newark, N. J., is part of a larger settlement with the U.S Department of Justice that also includes resolving civil claims.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approves key Line 3 permit
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Monday approved one of the last remaining permits for Enbridge Energy's planned Line 3 crude oil pipeline replacement across northern Minnesota, bringing the project a step closer to construction.
Are Minnesota's new COVID-19 restrictions enough?
Two MPR News reporters brought us up to speed on how the state is responding to a staggering number of new cases each day as well as the rising death count.
Biden picks Janet Yellen to be Treasury Secretary in historic appointment
President-elect Joe Biden plans to nominate former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen to head the Treasury Department, a source close to the transition told NPR on Monday, marking the first time a woman would head the powerful agency.
Millions of Americans traveling for Thanksgiving, ignoring CDC advice
More than 3 million people went through TSA airport security checkpoints this weekend. That's the most air travelers in one weekend since March, when the pandemic began.
American Airlines reverses policy that imposed weight limit on wheelchairs
American Airlines reversed a recent policy that banned wheelchairs weighing more than 300 pounds, which includes many power wheelchairs, from some of its regional jets following an NPR report.
A medical haven for Latino immigrants in rural Minnesota
Latinos in the United States are more likely to work essential jobs during the pandemic and be exposed to the coronavirus. They are also three times more likely to die from COVID-19 than white Americans. A free clinic in central Minnesota is helping connect community members to quality health care.
A fall survey of ag lenders shows concern about farm income and debt levels, but most bankers expect credit will be available to farmers next year.
Small turkeys are in demand as Americans downsize at Thanksgiving
As families across the U.S. scale back on how they traditionally celebrate the holiday, it's been a challenge for turkey producers as they figure out how to adapt to the changing market.