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.
US unemployment claims drop to 385,000, another pandemic low
Unemployment benefit applications in the U.S. have dropped to 385,000, down 20,000 from the week before.
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.
Even as COVID-19 restrictions loosen, Minnesota DNR still seeing high interest in camping
Even as COVID-19 restrictions loosen up and more Minnesotans get vaccinated, the DNR is still seeing high interest in camping.
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.
After MN tourism revenue is cut in half in 2020, experts expect busy summer
After taking a hard hit in 2020, Minnesota's tourism industry is expecting a big comeback this summer.
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.
Biden says economic recovery a marathon, not a sprint amid weak jobs report
U.S. employers added just 266,000 jobs last month, sharply lower than in March and a sign that some businesses are struggling to find enough workers.
In new pandemic low, unemployment numbers fall to 498,000
The number of Americans seeking unemployment aid fell last week to 498,000, the lowest point since the viral pandemic struck 14 months ago and a sign of the job market’s growing strength as businesses reopen and consumers step up spending.
Demand for bicycles remains high after pandemic sparks renewed interest
Bike shop owners say the demand they have seen over the last year is unprecedented, and not showing any signs of letting up. That’s because, while the pandemic has forced many people indoors, it’s forced other to look for new ways to get outdoors.
Minnesota launches $375 million rent help program, finally
Minnesota housing officials have launched a $375 million federally-backed rental assistance program after several weeks of bureaucratic delays.
Unemployment claims fall to 553,000
The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits dropped by 13,000 last week to 553,000, the lowest level since the pandemic hit last March and another sign the economy is recovering from the coronavirus recession.