Unemployment claims fall to 684,000, fewest since start of pandemic

The number of people seeking unemployment benefits fell sharply last week to 684,000, the fewest since the pandemic erupted a year ago and a sign the economy is improving.

Wages are only up because the bottom half of workers lost their jobs

If one looks at the data for American wages in 2020, which shows that they grew historically fast, this fact may seem to be cause for celebration. But a closer look at the data paints yet another picture of stark inequality and of the "K-shaped recovery."

Stimulus checks: IRS says next batch of payments will be disbursed in coming days

Officials from the IRS and U.S. Treasury said Monday the next batch of COVID-19 stimulus payments will start hitting bank accounts later this week. Mailed checks will start going out as well.

Pending stimulus check? Here's when your money could be released

Many Americans already see the money in their bank account but they are not able to access it because it is 'pending.'

Minnesota students and businesses hopeful for prom, graduations this summer

The loosening of more COVID-19 restrictions in Minnesota comes at the perfect time for many high schoolers as they prepare for two big traditions.

Minnesota unemployment rate falls, but many leaving labor force

Minnesota’s unemployment rate is falling, although the state Department of Employment and Economic Development says the decline is due to people leaving the labor force. 

Layoffs ease as unemployment claims drop to 712,000

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 712,000, the lowest total since early November.

Stimulus passes Congress: Here's when you'll get $1,400

Congress passed the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 economic relief package Wednesday and President Joe Biden plans to sign it by week's end, providing $1,400 stimulus checks and an expansion of unemployment benefits.

House passes $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill, Biden expected to sign on Friday

The House passed the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill, which includes $1,400 stimulus checks for many Americans. The bill now goes to President Joe Biden’s desk to be signed into law in his first major legislative win.

House poised to vote on COVID-19 relief plan, $1,400 stimulus checks this week

The House is moving toward a final vote on the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief plan this week, which could send the bill to President Joe Biden’s desk to be signed into law before unemployment benefits expire.

Salvation Army launches 2 million pound food drive in Twin Cities

The Twin Cities Salvation Army announced it is holding a two million pound food drive from March 1-26 in an effort to aid families still struggling from the economic impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Senate approves $1.9T COVID-19 relief bill after all-night session

Senators worked through the night on the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 aid bill and have approved the package with a 50-49 vote. The bill is on track to pass in the House next week.