The Nebraska Legislature is considering a bill, LB 258, that would roll back an initiative to raise the state’s minimum wage. Business groups argue that the increase would create hardships for small companies. Ken Smith, the Economic Justice Director at Nebraska Appleseed, stated that the bill would make it harder for working families already struggling financially. The bill, sponsored by state Sen. Jane Raybould, would also create a lower minimum wage for 14 and 15-year-old workers. Three hundred Nebraska businesses approved the 2022 initiative to raise the minimum wage.
In Montana, a legislative committee is hearing a bill, SB 345, that would revise workers’ compensation laws. Opponents argue that the bill tips the scales against injured workers in favor of insurance companies. The bill would allow insurers to require independent medical examinations, even if out-of-state, potentially adding upfront costs for workers. According to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, about 23,000 people report injuries covered by workers’ comp policies in the state.
In South Dakota, Gov. Larry Rhoden is promoting economic opportunities, with a focus on the renewable-energy sector. The Clean Grid Alliance noted that the state ranks second nationally for wind energy generation, offering manufacturing jobs in the industry. The governor’s tour aimed to showcase development, workforce needs, and trade issues in the state.
A study by the Reshoring Institute indicates that Arkansas could see an influx of manufacturing jobs as companies consider bringing operations back to the U.S. The state’s low minimum wage is seen as cost-effective for companies requiring a large labor force. Supply-chain issues during the pandemic have prompted U.S. companies to explore reshoring options. Twenty states, including Arkansas, still pay the federal minimum wage of $7.25, making reshoring operations potentially more affordable for companies with labor-intensive processes.
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