Business
Local, state and national business news from the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel.
New vehicles must average 40 mpg by 2026 under U.S. standards
Officials said that under the new standards, owners would save about $1,400 in gasoline costs during the lifetime of a 2029 model year vehicle.
U.S. added 431,000 jobs in March in sign of economic health
Last month’s job growth helped shrink the unemployment rate to 3.6%, just above the half-century low of 3.5% that was reached 2 years ago.
Are the whales leaving? Gulf of Maine research raises questions about new lobstering rules
The endangered North Atlantic right whale’s preferred food source is moving north, out of Maine waters. Lobstermen say the change warrants a second look at new fishing restrictions set to take effect May 1.
Fights over illegal fishing worldwide lead to armed conflict, deaths
An Associated Press review of conflict databases found in the past 5 years more than 360 instances of state authorities ramming or shooting at foreign fishing boats, sometimes leading to deaths.
Stocks end lower, ending market’s worst quarter in two years
Wall Street’s downbeat finish to March comes as investors try to navigate the market risks amid surging inflation and geopolitical instability.
Got a dime? Businesses seek U.S. Treasury’s help with coin shortage
A group of trade associations that represent individual businesses including banks, retail outlets, truck stops, grocery stores and more wants assistance convincing Americans to get coins back in circulation.
Seafood industry braces for losses of jobs, fish due to sanctions on Russia
In Maine, more than $50 million in seafood products from Russia passed through Portland in 2021, according to federal statistics.
President of workforce builder FocusMaine stepping down
Kimberly Hamilton, the organization’s inaugural president, is slated to leave her position on July 1.
State launches $16 million grant program for seafood dealers, processors
The program is a component of the governor’s Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan, investing federal American Rescue Plan Act funds in Maine people and businesses.