Facing a staggering wealth gap, California suggests increasing union participation among low-wage workers, noting that a union membership reduces working poverty better than a college degree. But getting more workers to vote on unions will require businesses and unions to compromise. Recent efforts have stalled but the stakes are higher than ever as a court overturns Prop. 22 and the Teamsters begin to campaign at Amazon warehouses across the state.
Grace Gedye
Posted inEnvironment
How much do wildfires really cost California’s economy?
A preliminary estimate shows that the Caldor fire cost tens of millions in lost economic activity. Wildfires, and the economic disruption they cause, have a large economic impact. But right now, California has a mostly incomplete picture of how much fires cost the state each year.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
Three key takeaways about broadband and California’s digital divide
Stakeholders across California participated in a moderated discussion about the state’s digital divide and its effect on small business.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
Yoga classes, therapy and 401(k)s: California businesses beefing up benefits to attract workers
California businesses are responding to a labor shortage with social media pleas, hiring incentives, bonuses and new benefits. So far, workers, particularly in the service industry, are seeing wages rise.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
‘Is something around the corner?’ Small businesses reopen to find new challenges
California’s economy is no longer at its nadir. But small businesses are still working to get back to normal, and are struggling with hiring, childcare for their workforce and the uncertainty of future outbreaks.