Business and Economic News

Trump food aid cuts eliminate key income source from some smaller Minnesota farms
The Trump administration slashed funding for a program that helps feed school children and the food insecure this spring, and it’s affecting not only those in need but also those who grow that food, leaving some farmers without a critical source of income.
Researchers say the true cost of prisons and jails is higher than many realize
A new report tries to capture the true cost of incarceration to families of people behind bars. It found it costs them around $350 billion every year – almost four times the government’s estimate for the cost of incarceration.
Hundreds of sheep helping keep prairie plants in check at Xcel’s Sherco solar project
Xcel Energy is managing vegetation at its Sherco Solar project by using sheep to graze beneath the solar panels. It’s an example of agrivoltaics, a growing practice of pairing renewable energy with agriculture that provides mutual benefits. 
 American Public Media to sell popular Brains On! podcast, eliminate jobs
American Public Media, an affiliate of MPR News, said Monday it was in active talks to sell the Brains On! Universe, an award-winning science podcast for children and young adults. The sale will cut 15 positions.
What’s next for remote and hybrid work?
Starting this week, Minnesota state employees who had been working remotely are required to return to the office. Private employers are also dialing back on remote work policies. MPR News host Angela Davis dives into the pros, cons and future of remote and hybrid jobs.
Minnesota public TV station leads fight against Trump executive order to defund public media
Joining a PBS lawsuit on Friday, Lakeland PBS said the White House is threatening its ability to serve its audience of 490,000 people across northern and central Minnesota.
Trump holding Pennsylvania rally to promote deal for Japan-based Nippon to ‘partner’ with U.S. Steel
President Donald Trump is holding a rally in Pennsylvania on Friday to celebrate a details-to-come deal for Japan-based Nippon Steel to invest in U.S. Steel. He says the plan will keep the iconic American steelmaker under U.S. control.
Federal workers keep America’s farms healthy. What now under Trump?
More than a thousand people who worked to keep American agriculture free of pests and disease have left the federal workforce in President Trump’s massive government downsizing.
Friction builds between Walz, public sector unions on multiple fronts
Democratic Gov. Tim Walz has been an unflinching ally to public employee unions through most of his political tenure. These days, their alliance is a little rocky to say the least.