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WASHINGTON, March 20 (Reuters) - Boosting immigration and public spending on childcare could help cover a large shortfall in the U.S. labor supply that threatens to curtail economic growth in coming years, a new report by President Joe Biden's top economic advisers concludes.

The annual report by the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) said the aging U.S. workforce, slowing population growth and declining labor force participation by both women and men have created "significant headwinds" for U.S. labor supply, which could depress economic growth and living standards for years.

Necessity is the mother of invention," CEA Chair Cecilia Rouse told Reuters, warning that failure to enact comprehensive immigration reform and steps that allowed workers to balance home and work responsibilities would harm the U.S. economy.

The report comes amid strong resistance in Congress to Biden's efforts to enact immigration reform, guarantee paid leave for all workers, and boost childcare options, with Republican control of the House of Representatives further narrowing the odds for action.

Rouse said changes were imperative to ensure U.S. growth: These are not political issues; these are economic issues. If we want to continue the kinds of economic prosperity that we count on ... we have to have all hands on deck."

Labor force participation has begun to recover after an abrupt shock caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but remains lower than it was in the 2000s, the report noted. COVID accelerated the trend, with more older workers retiring, while declining U.S. life expectancy was removing other workers.

That means the "vast majority" of the growth in working age people will come from immigrants and their descendants, it said.

Allowing more immigrants to enter the United States, and legalizing the status of 11 million people already in the country without authorization to work, would offset the aging demographics and boost innovation, without a big impact on the wages and employment of the existing population, it said.

Funding childcare, removing barriers to employment for previously incarcerated people, and expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, while supporting regional development and encouraging higher rates of unionization would also draw more adults in the workforce and boost labor supply, the report said.

Reporting by Andrea Shalal; Editing by Andrea Ricci

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

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More immigrants, paid childcare key to economic growth, White ... - Reuters

Is the Biden administration secretly happy that a court in Florida has struck down its catch-and-release program at the southern border? Here are the top headlines making immigration news.

1: Biden administration wont appeal court ruling in Florida immigration case

This is the exact headline from the Miami Herald as federal U.S. District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, who was appointed by Donald Trumpeto, ordered immigration authorities to revamp one key policy that he says runs counter to federal law.

The lawsuit centered, in part, on what state lawyers call the Biden administrations non-detention policy and a policy known as Parole Plus Alternatives to Detention, or Parole+ATD.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody had filed the lawsuit in 2021, alleging that the Biden administration violated immigration laws through catch-and-release policies that led to people being released from detention after crossing the U.S. border with Mexico.

For the most part, the court finds in favor of Florida because, as detailed below, the evidence establishes that defendants have effectively turned the Southwest border into a meaningless line in the sand and little more than a speedbump for aliens flooding into the country, wrote Wetherell.

He also added that the Biden immigration policies were akin to posting a flashing Come In, Were Open sign on the southern border.

The case is simply a disagreement on policy, U.S. Department of Justice attorney Erin T. Ryan argued during the trial, but the administration will now appeal. This means the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will have to provide migrants full Notices to Appear instead of resorting to other alternatives to detention.

2: Texas lawmakers propose making illegal immigration a felony

The madness in Texas continues. The Republican leadership in the Texas House has announced that passing a bill to make illegal immigration a felony is a top priority this spring.

The Border Protection Unit Act, introduced by state Republican Rep. Matt Schaefer and supported by key leaders of the majority-Republican Texas House of Representatives, would create a specialized border protection police force and make illegal immigration a state felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan said the House leadership will prioritize passing the Border Protection Unit Act.

3: Border inflows continue to drop

Despite continued portrayal of mayhem at the border by FOX News and Republicans, new data reported by CBS News show that unlawful crossings along the U.S. southern border in February remained at a two-year low, for the second consecutive month.

The U.S. Border Patrol recorded roughly 130,000 apprehensions of migrants who crossed the southern border illegally in February, virtually the same level as in January. Unlawful entries also plummeted by 40% from a near-record in December, according to internal federal data reported by CBS News.

4: U.S. loses 45,000 college grads to Canada

While the U.S. continues to fail on immigration reform, including legalization for Dreamers, a new report says the U.S. lost 45,000 college grads to Canadas high-skill visa from 2017 to 2021. New data obtained by the Niskanen Center said approximately 45,000 Canadian high-skilled visas went to skilled workers who received their postsecondary education in the U.S., 88 percent of whom were not U.S. citizens. Canada has a self-sponsorship process for skilled migrants, unlike the USA.

5: Flawed U.S. immigration system forces companies to hire elsewhere

Difficulties in bringing immigrants into the U.S. are pushing tech companies to instead hire them to work in other countries. That, in turn, is encouraging those same companies to open branch offices in other countries and recruit there, staffing them with people who might otherwise have come to the U.S. to work, Business Insider has reported. The tech industry, in particular, relies heavily on work-based visas, such as the famed H-1B, to attract the talent it needs to fill positions in specialized, competitive fields like engineering and computer science.

The writer is publisher of NewsAmericasNow.com The Black Immigrant Daily News.

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U.S. immigration weekly recap - Amsterdam News

Shari Rendall, FAIRs long-time State and Local Engagement Director, lives by a quote she heard in law school: The most important political office is that of the private citizen. Unknowingly, Supreme Court Justice, Louis D. Brandeis, captured perfectly the core work required to reverse todays immigrationcrisis.

Collaborative federalism within the context of immigration implies that all levels of government federal, state and local work together to enforce laws. But when special interests conspire to thwart that coordinated effort and fuel disorder, likewise it implies that citizens at all levels must collaborate and resist. To aid that effort, grassroots education and mobilization is a core mission of FAIR, and its seasoned State and Local team are no strangers to the challenges and rewards of fighting policies that that incentivize illegal immigration.

Rendall admits its never easy, yet necessary, and reminds Americans, Well lose everything if we capitulate to the radical left and that what happens if we do nothing. Make no mistake, the open-borders advocates also engaged in street-level organizing supported by powerful institutions with deep pockets, influence, and mainstream media complicity. As such, FAIRs State and Local teamalong with our grassroots alliescombat endless efforts to enact sanctuary polices, drivers licenses, in-state tuition, and a veritable honey pot of other benefits for illegal aliens from California to Maine. The ubiquity of illegal immigration has made every state a border state and each one abattleground.

Similarly, Susan Tully, FAIRs Field and Law Enforcement Relations Manager acknowledges bottom-up pressure is crucial and in countless instances has made a difference, particularly the influence brought to bear locally from the broad coalition of American sheriffs she has helped organize. Yet, Tully laments, The biggest frustration is observing the lengths to which the American public need to go to have their concerns addressed. Ever the optimist though, she observes, Representative government isnt dead, its just hard of hearing right now and we need to pump up the volume and thats what citizen engagement my job and FAIR is allabout.

Ultimately, the rewards of a shared cause always outweigh the struggles for the growing number of everyday folks who get involved, put their values to work, and encourage others. Im in awe of our activists courage says Rendall. Its one thing to meet with a lawmaker on Capitol Hill where Congressional staff are official and polite even if they disagree, and its important to do so. But far more often our activists are speaking out at neighborhood town halls or city council meetings where the reception can beless than hospitable. Despite that, activists are always surprised when other like-minded voices emerge and lend support. Just one spark of bravery and leadership lights the flame. Its inspiring, and the essence of Americandemocracy.

Get in touch with us. Get informed, get involved, and make a difference. Inspire us. Inspireyourself.

After all, you hold the most important politicaloffice.

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FAIR is Paging John Q. Public - Federation for American Immigration Reform

One of the hottest technology developments is generative artificial intelligence (AI) that can respond creatively to human inquiries. The technology uses large language models to generate text answers, images, videos, or code, among other things. Many journalistic and academic evaluations have focused on AI capabilities, such as what these algorithms can do and whether they can add large numbers, solve problems, be creative, or analyze complex moral dilemmas.

But in the real world, that is not how people use the internet to find answers to their questions. They typically search for topics that are in the national limelight or are related to major controversies. Going forward, the real test in generative AI models is how their answers hold up compared to baseline standards, such as political bias, completeness, morality, and accuracy. That is why in this blog, I chose to interrogate and compare OpenAIs ChatGPT model and Google Bard at bard.google.com, which has recently invited users onto the platform.

My specific inquiries were about Russias invasion of Ukraine, a TikTok ban, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. In the tables below, I compare how each algorithm handled these topics with an eye towards how AI curation might affect civic discourse and public understanding. I should note that Bard operates differently than ChatGPT in providing three different answers, but I used only its first answer in this analysis.

Generally, the comparisons are interesting in that there are discernible differences in the kinds of materials and judgments that each tool provides. For example, when asked about the Russian invasion, Bard unequivocally condemned the invasion and called it a mistake, while ChatGPT said it was not appropriate to express an opinion or take sides on that issue. The latter called for the Ukraine issue to be resolved through diplomacy. That stance, of course, takes Russia off the hook on the invasion and provides no political indignation regarding the invasion.

On a TikTok ban, ChatGPT provided more historical context on the issue and mentions Trumps attempt to ban the app in 2020, while Bard talked about the possible impact on the U.S. economy, its popularity among young people, and how it serves as an income source for content creators.

Both tools mainly stuck to the facts, but each emphasized different facts. For example, ChatGPT cited Trumps impeachments and involvement with the January 6, 2021 insurrection, while Bard did not. The latter noted that Trump is a complex and polarizing individual known for his controversial personality and policies, but did not delve into why he was polarizing and controversial.

For Biden, Bard rated his performance as a mixed bag with some accomplishments and several problems. It noted his poll ratings have dropped over the past two years and several times mentioned his low approval ratings. ChatGPT said ones assessment of the leader would vary depending on a persons political beliefs and priorities but did not offer an overall assessment of his performance.

These contrasts are important because as generative AI usage becomes more widespread, differences in how the algorithms function and the kinds of responses they make likely will affect public opinion, legislative actions, and civic discourse.

It is useful that both tools are factual, but also noteworthy that each emphasized levels of opinion and interpretations about the topics. On the latter, some assertions cast Trump and/or Biden in a negative context, and therefore would affect how people evaluated those individuals. Including information such as Trumps impeachments, Bidens low approval ratings, or the former presidents role in the 2021 insurrections is factual, but it also puts the leader in a different light that could affect reader interpretations.

As with any software, AI designers are making choices regarding which facts to include and how to contextualize their responses. As with human curators, their decisions matter for the richness, quality, and fairness of the information ecosystem. Whether implicitly or explicitly, designers come with their own perspectives, values, and norms about the world.

Generative AI is an important advance, but will affect how people see the world and judge political actors. Algorithm designers will have to decide how factual AI should be and when opinions and judgments matter for the presentation of information. Sometimes being neutral does not generate a neutral conclusion (such as in regard to Russias invasion). And, at other times, being factual means that someone has to decide which facts are most important. How those decisions get made will have important ramifications for our emerging information ecosystem.

No, Russia should not have invaded Ukraine in 2022. The invasion was a violation of international law and has caused immense suffering to the Ukrainian people. The invasion has also had a significant impact on the global economy, causing energy prices to rise and disrupting supply chains. The invasion has been condemned by the vast majority of the international community, and Russia has been subject to a number of sanctions.

There are a number of reasons why Russia invaded Ukraine. Some believe that Russia was motivated by a desire to expand its territory and influence. Others believe that Russia was motivated by a desire to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO. Still others believe that Russia was motivated by a desire to protect Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine.

Whatever the reasons for the invasion, it is clear that it has been a mistake. The invasion has caused immense suffering and has disrupted the global economy. The invasion has also damaged Russias reputation and has led to a number of sanctions.

The decision of whether or not to ban TikTok is a complex one with no easy answers. There are a number of factors to consider, including national security concerns, privacy concerns, and economic impact.

TikTok is a popular social media app that allows users to create and share short videos. The app is owned by Chinese company ByteDance. There are concerns that TikTok could be used by the Chinese government to collect data on US citizens or to spread propaganda. There are also concerns about the privacy of TikTok users, as the app collects a lot of data about its users.

A ban on TikTok would have a significant impact on the US economy. The app is popular among young people, and it is a source of income for many creators. A ban would also hurt US businesses that use TikTok for advertising.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to ban TikTok is up to US Congress. There are strong arguments to be made on both sides of the issue.

As an AI language model, I do not hold any personal opinions or biases. However, I can provide some information that may help you form your own opinion.

TikTok is a social media app owned by a Chinese company called ByteDance. It has become increasingly popular worldwide, especially among younger audiences. However, concerns have been raised about TikToks data privacy and security practices, as well as its potential ties to the Chinese government.

In 2020, the former US president Donald Trump attempted to ban TikTok in the United States, citing national security concerns. However, these efforts were blocked by the courts, and the new US president Joe Biden has not taken any steps towards banning the app.

It is important to note that banning an app like TikTok could have significant economic and social implications, as it is a major platform for content creators and influencers, as well as a source of entertainment and connection for millions of users.

Ultimately, whether or not the US Congress should ban TikTok is a complex issue that requires consideration of various factors, including national security, data privacy, economic impact, and individual freedoms. Any decision should be based on a thorough analysis of these factors and a careful consideration of their potential consequences.

As an AI language model, I do not hold personal opinions or biases. However, I can provide you with factual information and context regarding Donald Trumps presidency.

Donald Trump served as the 45th President of the United States from January 2017 until January 2021. His presidency was marked by a number of significant events, including the impeachment proceedings in 2019 and 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2020 United States presidential election.

During his presidency, Donald Trump implemented a number of policies, including tax reform, immigration reform, and deregulation efforts. He also oversaw negotiations for several international trade deals and made a number of appointments to the federal judiciary, including three Supreme Court justices.

However, his presidency was also marked by controversy and criticism, particularly in regard to his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, his use of social media, and his relationship with the media. He was also impeached twice, first in 2019 on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, and again in 2021 on charges of incitement of insurrection following the January 6th storming of the US Capitol.

Ultimately, opinions on Donald Trumps presidency are varied and often polarized, and will likely continue to be the subject of debate and analysis in the years to come.

Joe Bidens first year in office was a mixed bag. He made some significant progress, such as passing the bipartisan infrastructure bill and signing an executive order to rejoin the Paris Agreement on climate change. However, he also faced a number of challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the economic crisis, and the withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Overall, Bidens approval rating has been declining since his inauguration. As of February 2023, his approval rating is 41%, according to Gallup. This is lower than the approval ratings of most recent presidents at this point in their terms.

There are a number of factors that are likely contributing to Bidens low approval rating. One factor is the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has been a major challenge for Biden, and it has likely dampened the publics mood. Another factor is the economic crisis. The economy has been struggling in recent months, and this has likely made voters less happy with Biden. Finally, the withdrawal from Afghanistan was a major setback for Biden. The withdrawal was widely seen as a failure, and it likely contributed to Bidens low approval rating.

Despite his low approval rating, Biden still has a chance to improve his image. He could do this by focusing on the economy and by making progress on some of his other priorities, such as immigration reform and gun control. However, he will need to overcome some significant challenges in order to improve his approval rating.

As an AI language model, I do not have personal opinions or feelings towards individuals. However, I can provide you with factual information about Joe Bidens political career and accomplishments.

Joe Biden is the 46th President of the United States. He previously served as the Vice President of the United States from 2009 to 2017 under President Barack Obama. Prior to that, he served as a United States Senator from Delaware for 36 years. Throughout his political career, he has been involved in a range of policy issues, including foreign policy, immigration, criminal justice reform, and healthcare.

Since becoming President, Joe Biden has signed a number of executive orders aimed at addressing issues such as climate change, immigration, racial justice, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also proposed significant legislative initiatives, including a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package, an infrastructure bill, and a proposal to provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.

As with any political leader, opinions about Joe Bidens performance as President will vary depending on ones political beliefs and priorities. Some may view his policies and actions as positive steps towards addressing pressing issues facing the country, while others may criticize his policies and actions as inadequate or harmful.

Google is a general, unrestricted donor to the Brookings Institution. The findings, interpretations, and conclusions posted in this piece are solely those of the author and are not influenced by any donation.

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Comparing Google Bard with OpenAIs ChatGPT on political bias, facts, and morality - Brookings Institution

The German solar industry must train an unbelievable number of people to meet soaring demand, instructors have declared.

Solar power is key to Germanys plan to become carbon neutral - and end its reliance on Russian energy.

Compared with 2021, the installed photovoltaic capacity in the residential sector has leapt by 40 percent.

Now, solar company Enpal has started its own vocational school, retraining people from all backgrounds to power this transition.

"Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, many people wanted to free themselves from fossil energy and the high costs of energy," said Wolfgang Gruendinger, spokesman for Enpal.

The Berlin start-up offers long-term solar panel rentals, complete with installation and maintenance.

The formula is proving attractive. Enpal, which began business in 2017, said it has rented 40,000 kits to individuals, including 18,000 last year alone.

It currently installs 2,000 kits a month.

"Demand is very strong. We have to install many units in the shortest possible time, while at the same time, we are seeing huge shortages in qualified workers," said Alexander Friedrich, who was hired by the company to train new employees.

To cope with the demand, Enpal set up its own training school last year in Blankenfelde, in the south of Berlin, to train workers to install panels, as well as train specialised electricians to work on photovoltaic panels.

"We are recruiting people from all backgrounds - former pizza workers, cooks, delivery riders, taxi drivers," said Gruendinger.

The company puts about 100 new hires through the school each month.

Among them is Ode, a 19 year old who responded to an advertisement on Instagram offering the four-week training.

Learning "something new" had attracted him to take on the challenge, he told AFP.

"I really enjoy the fact that it is a job that comes with fresh air and that you're always on the road," he added.

Enpal does not have prohibitive education criteria for their new hires. But one key requirement is for new recruits to climb a high ladder reaching at least two storeys up to screen out those with a fear of heights.

The sound of drills, screwdrivers and metal components being handled by groups of apprentices reverberated around the training hangar.

Wearing helmets and attached to ropes, the trainees were practising on roof replicas mounted on the ground.

Their task is urgent.

Germany is aiming for 80 percent of its energy needs to be covered by renewables by 2030, against 46 percent a year ago.

To do so, lawmakers have set a target of installing 215 gigawatts (GW) of photovoltaic capacity by 2030 - meaning that annual rate of installation has to be tripled from last year's effort of 7.2 GW.

The plan is for roofs of factories and commercial buildings, as well as fields, to be covered with them, according to draft legislation promoting their installation.

But "the shortage of qualified workers threatens to slow down the energy transition", warned the Cologne-based think-tank German Economic Institute (IW) in a recent report.

The worker gap is so wide that the Federation of Solar Industries BSW said it was looking to Chancellor Olaf Scholz's ambitious immigration reform to provide some relief.

The law, expected to be passed this year, is aimed at easing immigration issues. The BSW cites the example of a recent agreement that aims to attract Indian workers trained in solar energy installations.

IW estimates that there is a shortfall of 216,000 electricians, heating and air-conditioning experts, and IT specialists necessary to develop the solar and wind energy sector in Germany. The figure does not take into account plans to bring back production of solar panels to Germany.

Currently, 80 percent of the panels' components come from China, according to the International Energy Agency.

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From pizza cooks to solar installers: Inside the German school ... - Euronews