A CDC recommendation for at-risk workers, concerns about an impending shortage in federal funds, construction industry challenges, and an upcoming panel on the future of the defense industry are among the top business news items this morning.
National
Centers for Disease Control Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky is recommending that COVID-19 booster shots be offered to health care workers and others whose jobs put them at higher risk of infection. A CDC panel previously rejected this idea, saying boosters should only be offered to older residents, including those in nursing homes and with underlying health conditions.
An analysis from the Bipartisan Policy Council concludes that the federal government could run out of cash as early as Oct. 15. The report comes as Congress debates whether to lift the debt limit and economists warn of major economic disruptions if a default occurs.
Business trends
A poll from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce finds major challenges in the construction industry as more than nine in 10 report difficulty in finding skilled workers, including 55 percent saying they are experiencing high levels of difficulty. A record high 93 percent are facing shortages in at least one material.
Connecticut
The World Affairs Council of Connecticut will host a panel next week on the future of the defense industry. The Oct. 1 event will look at emerging technologies and military modernization efforts in areas such as space, cyberspace, and artificial intelligence.
