Disaster recovery workers cleaning up after major flooding in Michigan tested positive for the coronavirus. The outbreak shined a light on working conditions in the fast-growing industry.
Many retail and food workers are losing temporary wage bumps they got during the pandemic. Some say their work hazards are only increasing, while their wage is lower than unemployment benefits.
The number of jobless claims hit an all-time record, with 3.3 million claims in the last week alone. With so many people filing, there are glitches. Experts offer suggestions on how to get through.
As negotiations continue between the automaker and the union, workers express what motivates them to join the picket line. "One fight, we all fight," one worker says.
Bad food on top of a bad workday is ... bad. So some co-workers have created a bright spot — a good meal. And while the food is yummy, the care that goes into making a homemade lunch is even better.
Some workers say wages and living conditions have improved. Farms have also committed to providing five annual paid sick days, five paid vacation days and to meet housing health and safety standards.
Two-thirds of employed adults stand at work. Many also do physical labor. Among the most demanding occupations: construction, food service and farming.
Since 1998, Fair Trade USA has been certifying farms overseas that met its standards for workers and the environment. Now, the group is looking closer to home, starting with an Arizona organic farm.
In California, agriculture depends on immigrant labor. As Trump takes office, those involved in the state's huge farming industry are wondering how his hard-line stance will affect them.
In the South, unions have faced an especially tough battle. Still, organizers keep trying. United Auto Workers is trying to win a vote by workers at a factory in Piedmont, Ala., on Wednesday.
What role do immigrant workers play in today's labor force? And how do emotions about illegal immigration and competition for jobs shape workplaces? We talk to Brookings expert Audrey Singer about why America's labor market will become increasingly reliant on immigrants and their children..
