Lawmakers consider return-to-work incentives - June 3, 2021

Coronavirus cases have reached their lowest point in the U.S. since the pandemic began, with a 30% drop in new cases over the past week alone. Public health experts say they anticipate more localized outbreaks in communities with lower vaccination rates. Covid-19 vaccines refused by a surprising number of hospital workers - USA Today Why experts say COVID-19 contact tracing may be more valuable than ever - ABC News @digiphile : In 2020, widespread mask usage, testing, & contact tracing helped limit spread of a novel airborne pathogen. In 2021, ventilation, shifting outdoors, limiting super-spreading events, rapid tests, & safe + effective vaccines will enable us to suppress it Jobless claims for the past week fell below 400,000, reaching another new low in the pandemic. While the numbers indicate the labor market is gaining steam, U.S. lawmakers are mulling ways to coax workers back into the labor force. Some options presented by representatives include hiring bonuses for workers and expanded tax credits for employers. Why some Chicago restaurant workers aren't coming back - Chicago Tribune @zachdcarter : A lot of what some business owners are calling a "labor shortage" isn't being driven by higher unemployment benefits or even low wages. A lot of people in different industries have just decided to change careers and lifestyles. Apple has asked its employees to return to the office three days per week starting in September. Most employees will have the option of working remotely on Wednesdays and Fridays following a message from CEO Tim Cook explaining that video conferencing does not provide the same kind of collaboration.  Exclusive: Amazon starts testing UK staff for coronavirus variants - Reuters Employers with a return to work date set - HR Executive @toddmeany : Plugged in: Are you back in the office? A Bloomberg survey found 39% of workers would considering quitting if employers weren't flexible about remote work. Among younger workers that figure was 49%. What has you