PBS NewsHour - Making Sen$e

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 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

Since taking office in January, President Joe Biden has made a number of moves to change former President Trump's hardline immigration policies. But just last week, Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a tough message in Guatemala, telling its citizens not to come to the U.S. For the series "Making Sense," Paul Solman explores the economic debate around fully opening the country's borders. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With the pandemic raging and the nation's economy teetering, now might seem like a curious time to start a business. But is it? Paul Solman asks the question, and answers it. Transcript: PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Americans are living longer, with average life expectancy in the U.S. rising from age 71 in 1970 to age 79 last year, leading many to stay employed far past retirement age. Paul Solman reports on some of the oldest workers of all, and the lessons they can share, as part of our series, "Unfinished Business." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Millions of Americans have been crushed by the pandemic but older workers have faced both an economy with high levels of unemployment and a virus that puts them more at risk than younger people. And once they do lose a job it can be harder to find new ones, with many older workers simply giving up the search. Paul Solman reports as part of our series, "Unfinished Business." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The worsening pandemic continues to mean millions of Americans out of work. For older employees in particular, this kind of long-term unemployment can represent the end of a career -- especially when they may be facing age discrimination and bias. Economics correspondent Paul Solman looks at the problem as part of his series Unfinished Business. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The U.S. feels more deeply divided than it has in decades. According to social scientist Robert Putnam, the data backs up that assessment. Putnam, author of the seminal work on social capital and isolation "Bowling Alone," believes looking back to American history can help pave a new path to unity and equality. Paul Solman reports on Putnam's new book with Shaylyn Romney Garrett, "The Upswing." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

With large parts of the economy still sputtering under the weight of the coronavirus pandemic, many people are having to scale back. But some older Americans were already living a minimalist lifestyle on the road -- and some of them have leveraged their nomadic approach into income. Economics correspondent Paul Solman has their story as part of our Making Sense series on Unfinished Business. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The pandemic has spurred surges in camping and RV travel due to the need for social distancing and outdoor activity. But it's not all fun and vacations: one group of Americans adopted a self-sufficient and nomadic lifestyle long ago, living full-time in motor homes and working seasonal jobs to support themselves as they travel the United States. Paul Solman reports on retirement-age "workampers." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

COVID-19 vaccine development continues to be the subject of political jostling, with President Trump contradicting top U.S. health officials regarding timeline and efficacy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say they expect to distribute vaccines publicly at no cost to the patient. But what will the government pay, and how much could drug companies profit? Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

U.S. airlines are sending out warnings about huge financial losses and urgently requesting help. Tens of thousands of flights for the fall have been canceled, and change fees have been eliminated in order to attract travelers. Meanwhile, flight staff and security are being drawn into arguments with passengers who refuse to comply with mask mandates. Economics correspondent Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Throughout the Republican National Convention, supporters of President Trump have touted his economic record as a key reason they believe he should be reelected. But what would a second-term policy agenda look like for Trump, as the coronavirus pandemic continues to limit economic growth and threaten American jobs? Paul Solman reports on Trump's record so far and proposals for the future. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

With tens of millions of Americans reeling financially from the coronavirus pandemic, the future of the U.S. economy is on the minds of many. Both President Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden are seeking to convince voters they can revive the country. But what do their respective policies suggest? Paul Solman analyzes some of Biden's key economic proposals -- and how he would pay for them. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The antibiotics industry has suffered an alarming collapse that has become even more troubling as secondary bacterial infections threaten patients with COVID-19. Why has production of these vital medicines stagnated, and what can be done to address the problem? Economics correspondent Paul Solman reports on why lifesaving drugs don't necessarily translate to lucrative businesses. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

COVID-19 can be accompanied by secondary bacterial infections with deadly consequences. But the industry that researches and produces antibiotics to fight such illnesses has been upended -- and the pandemic is only making things worse. Now, medical experts worry about the long-term health implications of not having cutting-edge antibiotics in the pharmaceutical pipeline. Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

In the U.S., child care was expensive and difficult to obtain long before the pandemic. But coronavirus has closed schools, forced parents to work from home and shuttered some care facilities for good. With COVID-19 surging in much of the country, many parents may not be able to return to the workforce full-time. Paul Solman reports on the dilemma they face -- and its economic repercussions. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The coronavirus pandemic has shed new light on racial disparities in American health outcomes. Economic disadvantage is one reason Black people in the United States are on average less healthy than white people -- but there are other causes, including the ongoing stress of systemic racism. Paul Solman reports in the second of a two-part Race Matters series. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

African Americans face immense disparities across a broad range of categories, including economic. That history of disadvantage is making the current problems of COVID-19 even worse. Economics correspondent Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Long before the coronavirus pandemic, manufacturing in the U.S. was transformed -- and with it, daily life. Now COVID-19 is delivering a new blow to the industry. But some companies are pivoting to create the personal protective equipment that the U.S. had previously outsourced overseas. Paul Solman reports on how a family textile business nearly 200 years old is adapting to this latest challenge. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

During the pandemic, Americans have replaced dining out with take-out and delivery meals. As a result, more customers and restaurants are relying on apps like Grubhub and Uber Eats to transport food. But restaurants say the apps consume their profits, customers find delivery fees too high and drivers can't earn a living wage. So what is the business model's viability? Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The staggering number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits underscores just how many are struggling financially due to the pandemic. While the economic damage from shuttering businesses and staying home is undeniable, public health experts worry that the pressure to reopen will end up driving the spread of COVID-19. Paul Solman reports on weighing the economic and safety risks. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Shutting down the U.S. economy in an effort to control the coronavirus outbreak came at enormous cost to American businesses. But the damage borne by African American entrepreneurs has been especially significant. Paul Solman reports on how black business owners face additional challenges -- from racism among customers to a lack of financial support -- even when economic circumstances are strong. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Fears of the coronavirus pandemic and the sharp shifts by companies to allow employees to work from home could devastate the nation's office skyscrapers, some economists say. But real estate moguls say the office as we know it isn't dead yet. Economics correspondent Paul Solman explores how uncertainty is affecting the market. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Many Americans are working from home during the coronavirus pandemic, and it's unclear when people will or should return to the workplace. The shift toward more remote work could have significant repercussions for employees, companies and the marketplace. Economics correspondent Paul Solman explores these transformations -- and their advantages and drawbacks -- in a two-part series. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

For more than two months, the toll of unemployment in the U.S. has grown each week. The retail sector, which was already struggling before the pandemic, is among the hardest hit, with stores closed or at reduced capacity and consumers nervous about spending money. And many economists believe these lost jobs will not be returning anytime soon. Economics correspondent Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

As millions more Americans file for unemployment amid an economy crippled by COVID-19, many states are lifting restrictions and reopening businesses. But is that the correct approach to reviving the U.S. economy? Paul Solman talks to Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Romer about weighing costs and benefits and why "there are no good alternatives" to making COVID-19 testing ubiquitous in the U.S. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Consequences of the unemployment driven by the novel coronavirus pandemic will reverberate through the U.S. economy for months, if not years. One result: as millions of Americans lose their jobs, they are also losing their health care coverage -- and for many, there aren't affordable insurance alternatives available. Paul Solman reports on the connection between employment and health insurance. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The current economic crisis means rising demand for food stamps. While Congress has passed additional benefits for some recipients, a large percentage of the poorest households did not get an increase. Meanwhile, many people, from college students now at home to those at high-risk for COVID-19, are facing new complications in accessing their benefits. Economics correspondent Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

A new survey by the Pew Research Center finds 43 percent of U.S. adults say they or someone in their household has suffered a job loss or pay cut due to COVID-19. With such widespread impact, it will likely take years for the economy to rebound. But what will recovery even look like, as the pandemic exacerbates existing inequalities and vulnerabilities in American society? Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

One of the business sectors hit hardest by the novel coronavirus pandemic has been air travel. Passenger volume is down a stunning 96 percent in the U.S., while airline losses have topped $300 billion worldwide. Despite canceled flights, travelers are not easily able to get their money back. Meanwhile, pilots and other staff worry for their safety. Economics correspondent Paul Solman reports. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Many Americans affected by the coronavirus pandemic are struggling to pay their rent when they have lost income and haven't yet been able to secure unemployment money. Missed rent, in turn, adds up to landlords who can't pay their mortgages or property tax. And then cities and states will struggle to provide the basic services that tax payments fund. Paul Solman reports on this "looming cascade." PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

A sector of the economy that is being hit especially hard amid the coronavirus pandemic is the restaurant industry. In normal times, Americans were spending roughly as much money on dining out as they were at grocery stores. With restaurants now closed, more than 3 millions jobs have been lost nationwide. Paul Solman reports on the impact on establishments in the Washington, D.C., metro area. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The coronavirus pandemic is causing immense economic damage. The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits has surged as businesses nationwide close down and are forced to lay off workers. Has the country ever experienced anything like this? Paul Solman talks to Harvard University economist Ken Rogoff, whose book "This Time is Different" examines the history of financial crises. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The fallout from the 2008 global financial crisis revealed that some of the world's most powerful banks were involved in reckless financial dealings. Germany's Deutsche Bank took a particularly aggressive approach -- the consequences of which are still playing out now, more than a decade later. Paul Solman talks to The New York Times' David Enrich, who has written a new book on the subject. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Many Americans plan to save for retirement in their 50s. But what happens if you're laid off at that age instead? According to researchers, the situation is common, and older workers have a harder time finding a new job -- especially one that pays their previous salary. Economics correspondent Paul Solman talks to 59-year-old Jaye Crist, who works three jobs for 70 percent of his former income. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Economist Robert Frank studies peer pressure and how its power can be leveraged for good. In his new book, "Under the Influence: Putting Peer Pressure to Work," Frank explains the idea of "behavioral contagion," which he says can drive people to do what's right. Paul Solman talks to Frank about applications for fighting climate change and real-life examples in Frank's hometown of Ithaca, New York. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Organized labor in the American workforce has declined since the 1980s, with many unions struggling to attract workers as companies voice opposition to them. But in Las Vegas, one union has broken through to much of the city's hospitality sector -- and done so by involving its membership in all of its operations. Paul Solman reports on how this new model of organization is driving results. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Collectively, Americans owe nearly a trillion dollars of medical debt, and Congress is trying to figure out a policy response. But in the meantime, economics correspondent Paul Solman reports on an unusual non-profit's effort to relieve the burden of medical debt for those in need. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Fifty-five years after co-founding the rock band The Who, Pete Townshend is still at it. The lead lyricist and guitarist says he actually doesn't enjoy performing but views it as an "easy" job necessary to finance his lifestyle and support his family and staff. Economics correspondent Paul Solman sits down with Townshend to discuss aging, surviving child abuse and art's ability to inspire hope. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders