The auto industry is in the midst of a major shakeup, as consumers react to higher gasoline prices by buying more fuel-efficient vehicles. Midday looks at how the industry is responding, and what the future holds.

UnitedHealth Group Inc. will cut at least4,000 jobs, or 5 percent of its workforce, in a restructuring andwarned Wednesday that a weaker environment and higher costs willcut into profits this year.

A public comment period has opened for Minnesota's new ballast water discharge permit for ships. The state will require permits for most of the ships calling on Minnesota ports like Duluth.

Minnesota farmers are expanding vegetable production to respond to growing demand for locally grown produce.

That's one of several details revealed in a summary of a contract agreement reached between pilot negotiators from both carriers. Current Delta pilots would receive a 3.5 percent equity stake.

DFL U.S. Senate candidate Al Franken says he no longer would consider supporting an increase in the federal gas tax.

Soaring fuel prices have virtually all U.S. airlines in a tailspin. Most carriers, including Northwest and Sun Country, plan to drop flights this fall. Meanwhile, they're trying to push up fares.