Business and Economic News

MN industry leaders want more immigrant workers as restrictive policies loom
Industry leaders say immigrants are needed to grow Minnesota's economy and address a labor shortage. But calls for welcoming more immigrants come as the White House and others offer proposals for more restrictive immigrant policies.
Families clash over proposed hog farm in Zumbrota Township
People living near the proposed facility are worried about odors and levels of hydrogen sulfide, a gas from animal waste that can be harmful to health. Those proposing the facility say they meet state standards and have a right to expand their business.
Minnesota jobless rate up a tick in August; 6,600 jobs cut
Minnesota's unemployment rate nudged up to a seasonally adjusted 3.8 percent in August as employers trimmed jobs. The state's jobless rate remains significantly lower than the national rate.
Signs of economic progress for black Minnesotans, but wide poverty gaps remain
Median earnings rose at a double-digit rate last year and their poverty and unemployment rates seem to be on a long-term trend downward. But black Minnesotans continue to fare much worse economically than most other residents, especially whites.
Organic industry sues USDA to push for animal welfare rules
New rules -- such as giving chickens more space to roam -- were approved by the Obama administration, but put on hold under Trump. Now the organic industry is suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Target recalls nearly 180,000 dressers that can tip over
Target said it has received 12 reports of its Room Essentials four-drawer dressers falling over or collapsing. Two 3-year-old children were struck by a dresser, but no injuries have been reported.