Business and Economic News

Twin Cities shops, workplaces go dog-friendly, but not everyone digs it
Retailers and companies that have gone dog-friendly say the move has helped recruit workers and lure new customers. They also acknowledge it's opened the door to some messy situations.
Family-run Iron Range furnace company hopes clean design will pay off
Lamppa Manufacturing makes the cleanest-burning wood furnace in the country. And it's preparing for a big expansion, just as the federal government is about to tighten its regulations on wood heaters. The new rules could give Lamppa a leg up on its competition -- but only if the EPA leaves them in place.
Not just airplanes: Why the government often lets industry regulate itself
A number of government agencies work closely with the industries they are charged with regulating. The issue surfaced after Boeing's 737 Max planes had to be grounded by the FAA.
Orange cone season nears: MnDOT unveils 2019 road, bridge projects
State officials on Thursday detailed 221 road and bridge projects across Minnesota this year, including work on Interstate 35W in the Twin Cities and along Interstate 94 in central Minnesota.
Target raises its minimum wage to $13 from $12
The Minneapolis-based retailer announced in 2017 a plan to raise its starting hourly wages for workers to $15 by the end of 2020.
South Dakota veterinary program aims to fill rural shortage
South Dakota State University is creating a new veterinary program with the University of Minnesota to address a shortage of rural care in the region.
Why do many say this is a bad time for farmers? Between the tariffs and the recent floods, how is the local farm economy doing?
Paying student athletes: A renewed debate as the Final Four comes to Minnesota
Brackets have been busted, friends and families divided and billions of dollars invested as the Final Four arrives in Minneapolis. As March Madness reaches its climax, are student-athletes being compensated enough?
Michael Lind on immigration and 'the new class war'
Michael Lind believes that our immigration policy debate is shaped by America's disparities in class, wealth and power.
Nice Ride bikes to return to Minneapolis, but not St. Paul
Nice Ride says it's expanding its service in Minneapolis, with more bike parking hubs and stations, pedal assist electric bikes and a new reduced fare membership program. However, it won't be in St. Paul at all.