Minnesota adds 14,800 jobs in May after end of COVID-19 restrictions

The unemployment rate in Minnesota was down to 4 percent in May after the state added thousands of leisure and hospitality jobs following the dropping of COVID-19 restrictions statewide.

Minnesota lawmakers reach deal to end eviction moratorium

Lawmakers in the House and Senate Housing Committee reached a deal Monday to end the current eviction moratorium in Minnesota. 

2020 teen summer employment was lowest since Great Recession

The number of teens who were able to get jobs during the summer of 2020 saw its lowest level since the Great Recession in 2008.

US weekly unemployment claims fall to 376,000, sixth straight drop

The number of Americans claiming unemployment benefits fell for the sixth straight week as the U.S. economy reopens rapidly from pandemic woes.

US economy shows growth despite lacking enough workers, supplies

Barely more than a year after the coronavirus caused the steepest economic fall and job losses on record, the speed of the rebound has been so unexpectedly swift that many companies can’t fill jobs or acquire enough supplies to meet a pent-up burst of customer demand.

May jobs report: US adds modest 559,000 jobs amid hiring struggles

U.S. employers in May added 559,000 jobs, which was better than April but still a sign that many companies are struggling to find enough workers.

Minnesota businesses fully reopen Friday, but where are the workers?

Minnesota's remaining COVID-19 capacity limits and distancing requirements ended Friday, allowing businesses to fully reopen. With pandemic-weary customers hungry to dine out again, restaurants are desperate for workers because 100,000 Minnesotans left the labor force in 2020 and haven't returned.

US unemployment claims fall to 406,000, a new pandemic low

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits dropped last week to 406,000, a new pandemic low and evidence that the job market is strengthening.

Federal government paid out thousands in PPP loan to fake orange grove in Minnesota

Minnesota doesn't seem like the most hospitable spot for an orange farm. But federal authorities paid out thousands to a fraudulent PPP loan to “Shaila Big Fresh Oranges” in Mantorville.

Diapers, toilet paper, other consumer goods to cost more starting in June

The prices of many everyday items will start to rise beginning next month as the country’s economy eases its way out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Xcel Energy launches forgiveness program for those behind on bills

Xcel Energy launched a new program that provides up to 75% past-due forgiveness for those behind on energy bills due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minnesota rent relief delayed, questions raised about vendor

One month after the program launch and landlords are still waiting on checks from Minnesota's massive rent relief program.

US achieves another pandemic low with 444,000 new unemployment claims

The number of Americans seeking unemployment aid fell last week to 444,000, a new pandemic low and a sign that the job market keeps strengthening as consumers spend freely again, viral infections drop and business restrictions ease.

Unemployment claims fall to 473,000, another pandemic low

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 473,000, a new pandemic low and the latest evidence that fewer employers are cutting jobs as consumers ramp up spending and more businesses reopen.

Chamber of Commerce calls for end to enhanced jobless aid

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is calling for Washington to immediately stop paying out-of-work Americans an extra $300 a week in unemployment benefits, saying the boost in government aid is giving some recipients less incentive to look for work.