NEW YORK (AP) — The Federal Reserve wraps up its latest policy meeting today, and investors are looking for clues as to when the central bank might start raising interest rates. The Fed is winding down its $4 trillion bond-buying program. But with the global economy showing signs of weakness, there are heightened concerns about whether the U.S. economy is strong enough to sustain growth without that support.
BEIJING (AP) — The World Bank says China’s economic growth could decline to close to 7 percent next year but Beijing should focus on pushing ahead with market-oriented reforms instead of trying to stick to official growth targets.The bank says China needs to overhaul its labor and real estate markets and its state-dominated financial system to achieve stronger growth long-term.
WOODLAND, Calif. (AP) — California’s deepening drought is shrinking its rice crop, and that’s bad news for farmers, migratory birds and sushi lovers.The state’s $5 billion rice industry exports to more than 100 countries and specializes in premium grains used in risotto, paella and sushi. But this year rice farmers only planted 420,000 acres — 25 percent less than last year — because of water restrictions.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Medicaid chiefs from several states are urging Congress to stem the cost of revolutionary new drugs for hepatitis C, cancer, and other diseases. In a letter to key congressional committees, the National Association of Medicaid Directors says lawmakers should consider everything from outright price controls on manufacturers to federal help for states trying to pay for the new medications.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A Florida craft beer bar is suing the state over its ban on half-gallon, refillable beer jugs known as growlers.The lawsuit was filed in federal court yesterday and names the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.The Crafted Keg in Stuart said a state law that allows unlimited fills of quart-sized and gallon growlers but not a half-gallon jug is hurting its business.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
