Bipartisan Senate bill aims to invest $100 billion in technology RD

"A group of bipartisan, bicameral politicians have drafted a bill that would "dramatically" increase investment in tech research and development. The Endless Frontiers Act would commit $100 billion over five years toward research in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, robotics, automation and more. Another $10 billion would go towards creating regional technology hubs across the US."
— Christine Fisher (Engadget) (5/27) (Email)   (Pocket)

Investments in AI to Grow as COVID-19 Strikes Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chipset Market

"Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions are expected to contribute considerably while handling the COVID-19 outbreak and also address the subsequent emergence of challenges. The pandemic has prompted numerous pharmaceutical firms as well as healthcare establishments to boost their research and development (R&D) funding in AI. AI solutions help in e-learning, the demand for which is anticipated to skyrocket with the closure of various educational institutes like universities and schools. The technology also helps in offering remote assistance while preventing unnecessary travel, which is the main focus during the outbreak. The rising use of smartphones as well as smart devices also seems to be working favor of the artificial intelligence chip market all over the world."
— (Market Watch) (5/27) (Email)   (Pocket)

Tencent to invest $70 billion in 'new infrastructure'

"HONG KONG (Reuters) - Chinese tech giant Tencent Holdings (0700.HK) will invest 500 billion yuan ($70 billion) over the next five years in technology infrastructure including cloud computing, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, the company said Tuesday. "
— (Reuters) (5/26) (Email)   (Pocket)

Uber, Lyft drivers say N.Y.'s denial of unemployment benefits is unlawful

"The drivers and the New York Taxi Workers Alliance (TWA), which represents 23,000 drivers in New York City, filed a complaint in Brooklyn federal court on Monday saying the denial of benefits goes against the state Department of Labor’s own precedent finding that drivers for ride-hailing services are employees for the purposes of unemployment insurance. "
— (Reuters) (5/26) (Email)   (Pocket)

Analysis: Pennsylvania’s unemployment trust fund faces insolvency as pandemic continues

"In late April, Jerry Oleksiak, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, indicated federal financial assistance could be sought as the state’s unemployment trust continues to drain its balance to fulfill the rapid influx of claims. "
— (Washington Examiner) (5/27) (Email)   (Pocket)

A staggering number of laid-off workers are receiving MORE money from unemployment benefits than when they were employed

"As federal lawmakers debate another relief package for the coronavirus pandemic that’s put approximately 35 million out of work, a new study shows how generous (or not) the added unemployment benefits were in the initial stimulus bill addressing the crisis."
— (Market Watch) (5/26) (Email)   (Pocket)