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Rideshare increases signed into law in Minnesota | Mississippi

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www.thecentersquare.com – By Carly Moran | The Center Square – 2024-05-31 09:00:00

(The Center Square) –Uber or Lyft rides in Minnesota might get more expensive.

Gov. Tim Walz recently signed into law a bill that would require all rideshare drivers to be paid $1.28 per mile, and $0.31 per minute of travel. All drivers must be compensated at minimum $5 per trip.

While the bill is meant to better compensate drivers, a similar plan in Seattle showed troubles for some small businesses. In January, the Seattle City Council voted into effect a $0.74 per mile, $0.44 per minute wage for delivery drivers. This equated to at least $26.40 per hour, higher than the $19.97 city minimum wage. 

After just a month, local Indian takeout restaurant SpiceWaala reported a 30% decrease in sales from the same time in 2023. A $9 chicken tikka kathi roll now costs $19 on DoorDash before tip.

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan expressed no concern, touting at the bill signing that it’s a step toward fair wages.

“Uber and Lyft are vital services that Minnesotans across the state rely on every day,” Flanagan said. “Rideshares get people to doctor’s appointments, work, and school and are a vital stopgap for those who lack other forms of transportation. Those providing these services deserve fair wages and protections.”

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News from the South - Texas News Feed

Abbott directs state agencies to divest from investments originating from China | Texas

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www.thecentersquare.com – By Bethany Blankley | The Center Square contributor – 2024-11-21 19:24:00

SUMMARY: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has issued multiple directives to prepare for the upcoming legislative session focusing on threats from China. One executive order aims to protect Texans of Chinese descent from CCP operatives, while another orders state agencies to prepare for potential attacks on critical infrastructure. Abbott emphasized the need for divestment from Chinese investments due to financial risks associated with CCP aggression. He called for immediate evaluation and divestment of state funds in China, fostering collaboration with other governors to encourage investment alternatives. These measures follow discussions by a select committee exploring foreign threats to Texas’ economy and security.

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News from the South - Georgia News Feed

Study: AI and data centers could drive cost of energy up by 70% over 10 years | Virginia

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www.thecentersquare.com – By Morgan Sweeney | The Center Square – 2024-11-21 19:07:00

SUMMARY: A report by the Jack Kemp Foundation warns that average American energy bills could rise by 25% to 70% over the next decade due to soaring energy demands driven by AI, hyperscale data centers, and advanced manufacturing. The surge is straining the U.S. power grid, leading to significant price increases in capacity markets. Dominion Energy disputes these findings, predicting only a 2.5% annual increase in Virginia. The report argues for policy changes, including charging data centers more for energy and halting subsidies for their construction to alleviate the burden on consumers. Recommendations also include implementing minimum take clauses for utility contracts.

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News from the South - Florida News Feed

St. Petersburg City Council votes to repair Tropicana Field’s roof | Florida

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www.thecentersquare.com – By Steve Wilson | The Center Square – 2024-11-21 17:01:00

SUMMARY: The St. Petersburg City Council approved spending $55 million to repair Tropicana Field, including $26.3 million for roof replacement, after Hurricane Milton damaged it in October. Insurance and FEMA funds will cover some costs. However, Rays co-President Brian Auld doubts the repairs will be ready by 2026. The council delayed a vote on $333.5 million in bonds for a new $1.2 billion stadium, scheduled for 2028. The Rays argue the delay jeopardizes the project, having already spent $50 million. The team will play next season at George Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, paying $15 million to the Yankees.

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