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Trump-era Opportunity Zones meant to help low-income communities exploited by investors

2021/11/11

Former President Donald Trump's 2017 tax plan created Opportunity Zones -- a program of tax incentives to encourage investment in low-income communities. But as Paul Solman reports, that program has not necessarily spurred economic growth and jobs in distressed communities the way it had been envisioned. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

As housing costs boom, how home-buyers in one city search for affordability

2021/08/04

As the U.S. grapples with the coronavirus, housing costs are skyrocketing. According to the latest S&P Core Logic Case-Shiller index, home prices were up almost 17 percent over the last year -- and in many places, the jump was worse. Economics correspondent Paul Solman turns to potential home-buyers in Boise, Idaho, one of the many areas in the country that has seen a stark increase in prices. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

How a rise in remote employment may impact post-pandemic work life

2021/06/03

Unemployment claims dropped again Thursday, and this week may also bring a clearer picture of what's happening with the job market. As more Americans get vaccinated, workers and companies are figuring out what post-pandemic work life will look like -- and how it may change permanently. NewsHour's Paul Solman has the story as part of his series, "Making Sense." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The US has a 'thirst' for immigrant workers. Why do so many struggle to get legal status?

2021/05/20

President Joe Biden has said that changing immigration law remains an important piece of his agenda. But the path to new legislation is complex and hardly clear. One of the biggest flashpoints in this debate are questions about undocumented workers and their role in the economy. Paul Solman dives into those questions for his latest report for "Making Sense." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

A look into Amazon's employee conditions as the company pushes back against unionization

2021/03/29

For almost two months, Amazon workers have been voting on whether to unionize at one of the company's major warehouses in Alabama. The voting concludes today. Since Amazon is the second-largest private employer in the country, the stakes are high and the battle is being closely watched. Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The fate of bats is hanging in the balance. That could have very real consequences for us

2021/03/17

The World Health Organization is expected to release a report on its investigation into the origins of the novel coronavirus in the coming days. Among the many theories is the unproven belief that it was passed on from bats -- leading to much public fear of the mammals. But the growing threat to bats could mean bad news for us too. Special correspondent Catherine Rampell reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Millions of Americans saddled with student debt as debate continues over relief

2021/03/03

As Washington debates how to provide economic aid during the pandemic, many say one critical component should be part of future deals: forgiving student debt. But determining how much could or should be forgiven is a complicated question. Paul Solman looks at the pressure to make changes for our series, "Making Sense." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

With millions looking for work, stigmas create a dearth of skilled tradespeople

2021/02/18

Jobless claims were high again this past week with more than 860,000 people filing for unemployment benefits for the first time. Millions of people are still looking for work, but some employers say they can't find enough skilled workers for certain jobs. That is due in part, they say, because of stigmas that need to change. Paul Solman reports for our series "Work Shift." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

How unconventional trading led to turmoil on Wall Street

2021/02/03

In late January, a handful of unlikely Wall Street stocks began skyrocketing in value, which has led to big market volatility. The spike was driven by an unconventional group of traders who had banded together on a buying spree, determined to take on the market. Paul Solman reports as part of our economic series, "Making Sense." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Despite rising salaries, the skilled-labor shortage is getting worse

2021/01/28

There's a shortage of skilled tradespeople throughout the American economy, and it is a persistent problem that started well before the pandemic. But what's behind that gap and what can be done? Paul Solman reports for our series, "Work Shift", which focuses on navigating the job market in a post-COVID economy. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Trump leaves office facing mounting debt, devalued assets and scarcity of willing lenders

2021/01/22

One of the consequences of the chaos of the U.S. Capitol is a distancing of banks and other business from former President Trump. He now faces a delicate and difficult situation with his businesses, debt and taxes. Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Businesses begin backing away from Republicans after Capitol attack

2021/01/14

Since last week's riot at the Capitol, more and more companies are cutting ties with Donald Trump, and dozens of corporations suspended political contributions to the 147 members of Congress who refused to certify the election of Joe Biden. Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders