Minnesota’s Economic News — W/E 11/26/21

State and local taxes and spending

Star Tribune: Minnesota’s economic forecast coming after higher-than-predicted tax collections

The Neighbor: New Minnesota budget expands low-cost child care

Fox 9: Gov. Walz announces $160M in funding for child care assistance

KNSI: State Tax Collections Higher Than Expected

Waseca County News: Public comment reveals split between residents’ views on city taxes

Labor market

Bemidji Now: Unemployment numbers dropping, labor force smaller than it was pre-pandemic

Sahan Journal: Employers are offering raises, bonuses and training. In the midst of a surge in COVID-19 cases, Minnesota still needs tens of thousands more health care workers

St. Cloud Times: It’s time to listen and develop new tools to address labor crisis

Pioneer Press: First look at St. Paul’s $15 minimum wage: Some restaurants were shedding jobs before it took effect

Hometown Focus: Unemployment rate reaches pre-pandemic levels in Minnesota

Economic growth

Star Tribune: Entrepreneurs defy historic crisis with mighty resolve

Bemidji Pioneer: Could labor shortage stymie billions in new Minnesota infrastructure work?

Marshall Independent: Survey: COVID impact on manufacturing may be worse this year

Governing Magazine: Why the ‘Old North’ States Have Been Economic Laggards

Economic development

Minn Post: Officials say a shortage of housing, not jobs, is crimping economic development in Greater Minnesota