Jan 9th, 2009 · Georgetown, Ky., is home to Toyota's biggest plant outside of Japan. Southern state subsidies and a nonunion work force have contributed to Japanese carmakers' growth. But Toyota's sales are now down and a sudden collapse of the U.S. carmakers could hurt them, too.
Nov 10th, 2008 · China has launched an economic stimulus package worth nearly $600 billion, which includes more government investment in infrastructure, tax deductions for exporters, and bigger subsidies to the poor and farmers. Asian markets soared in response.
Jul 30th, 2008 · Negotiators at global trade talks in Geneva have failed to strike a deal to cut agricultural subsidies in Europe and the U.S. in exchange for a reduction of trade barriers in the developing world. Despite no deal, however, global trade has been expanding.
Jul 2nd, 2008 · Switzerland's health care system could be the perfect political compromise for the U.S. Those who can afford to buy insurance are required by law. For those who can't, the government provides subsidies. Swiss citizens, like Cecile Crettol-Rappaz, say they wouldn't trade it for any other system.
May 14th, 2008 · The U.S. House takes up the farm bill Wednesday. Two-thirds of the massive bill would pay for the nation's nutrition programs, including food stamps. Most of the rest of the legislation would provide subsidies for farmers and conservation programs that protect the land.
May 8th, 2008 · Congress has come up with a compromise farm bill that continues farm subsidies, despite record crop prices. It also increases spending on food stamps and other nutrition programs. President Bush has expressed displeasure, if not a veto threat, but sponsors think they could override a veto.
May 2nd, 2008 · Sen. Tom Harkin, Chairman of the Sen. Agriculture Committee, says the 2008 Farm Bill is essentially done and ready for a vote. The main sticking point iswhether millionaire farmers deserve farm subsidies.
Apr 20th, 2008 · Congress was supposed to have reached agreement on a new farm bill by now, and there's a lot more riding on it than crop subsidies. Advocates say poor people are in danger of going hungry while legislators bicker.