It may seem early, but programs across the country are preparing to help people with their 2022 income tax returns.

In Washington state, United Way of King County is calling for volunteers for its free tax-preparation program.

Ryan McFerran, program manager of tax credits and financial stability for the organization, said they rely on hundreds of volunteers each year. He pointed out there are a couple of different volunteer roles, including tax preparers who get to serve people directly.

"In most cases they get to tell those people that they're going to be receiving some money, in the form of a tax refund and other financial assistance," McFerran observed. "Which is typically pretty rewarding for volunteers."

McFerran pointed out the program will be offered on-site and virtually. He emphasized people do not need tax-prep experience to volunteer. There will be five training opportunities, with the first happening this weekend, and the last in mid-January. The program also is looking for community intake specialists who will assist at tax sites.

McFerran noted when they file their income taxes, low and middle-income families are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit, which he sees as one of the federal government's most vital anti-poverty programs.

"Taxes are actually a really great way to access the cash that they may need in order to cover their basic expenses, put a little bit more food on the table," McFerran outlined. "Maybe they have an overdue utility bill that they need to pay."

He also explained the Working Families Tax Credit will be widely available to families in Washington state, including those who are undocumented. He added people looking to apply for the credit should visit a tax-preparation site.

Super Bowl LVII is right around the corner, which means Arizona will see hefty spending and wide exposure because of the massive sporting event.

Danny Seiden, president of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the last time Arizona hosted the Super Bowl in 2015, it generated nearly $720 million for the state economy, attracted more than 120,000 out-of-state visitors just for the game and had more than 114 million viewers looking at Arizona.

Seiden noted it is a great showcase and economic driver for the state.

"The excitement for this Super Bowl is high," Seiden pointed out. "The excitement to come to a warm state like Arizona in February where you are going to see some sunshine is big, especially coupled with the Phoenix Open and everything else going on. So, I mean, I think we could see closer to $1 billion."

The Waste Management Phoenix Open will also be taking place Feb. 6-12. Seiden explained the mega events have a huge impact on the hospitality sector and called it a "huge boost of adrenaline" for local mom-and-pop shops disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Seiden projects more than a million people are going to come through the state for the various mega events happening in February. He emphasized Arizona is a state which values and fosters meritocracy, and noted during the last Super Bowl, Apple was one of the big companies to establish roots in the state, and has grown its presence since then.

"We have over 70 CEOs right now signed up for CEO forums who are looking at Arizona for relocation and expansion of their company," Seiden reported. "That's all fantastic news, and those impacts go on far past just the Super Bowl week and Super Bowl year."

Seiden stressed now through March is an exciting time to be in Arizona. After the Waste Management Open, he added baseball spring training is expected to bring more than $600 million in economic impact.

A South Dakota legislative committee has begun discussions on a plan to repeal the state's grocery tax.

It has been a politically divisive issue amid calls to help residents still reeling from inflation. Nearly a dozen states impose sales taxes on food sold in supermarkets. Some have taken steps to pause or reduce taxes after major spikes in consumer prices.

Erik Nelson, associate state director of advocacy for AARP South Dakota, said the state should take similar action by eliminating its grocery tax. He pointed out there are many people out there, including older residents, who are still feeling the squeeze.

"Many times, South Dakota's low-income seniors may be having to choose between purchasing food and other vital necessities such as prescription drugs or heat," Nelson observed.

Republican Gov. Kristi Noem also supports the idea, but some members of her party plan to oppose the move when it comes up for votes. They, along with groups such as the Chamber of Commerce, argued the move could place pressure on the state budget because a key revenue source would be lost.

But Nelson suggested lawmakers need to take the long view, noting not being able to shop for enough food could be detrimental to the health outcomes of older South Dakotans.

"Seniors that have difficulty accessing and maintaining an adequate and nutritious diet," Nelson emphasized. "We of course recognize that access to healthy food is important to keeping us healthy."

South Dakota's tax on groceries is 4.5%. It is one of only three states to tax groceries at the full sales-tax rate. While concerns about the impact on revenue have been raised, Noem argued the state would still have enough available money in the general fund.

The health risks associated with gas-burning stoves have caused a recent stir and fears of a government ban on the appliances, but a Michigan lawmaker said it would be going too far.

Gas stoves are known to emit nitrogen dioxide, and without proper ventilation, studies have shown indoor air pollution can worsen, causing respiratory illnesses.

A recent study found 13% of childhood asthma cases are attributable to gas stove emissions.

Dr. John Levy, professor and chair of the Department of Environmental Health at Boston University, said the structure of a home can determine the risks.

"For many people, things like gas stoves could actually be their highest source of air pollution exposure," Levy pointed out. "That itself is important."

Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Mich., said a prohibition on gas appliances would prevent Americans from choosing the oven which works best for them. His bill, The S.T.O.V.E. Act, or "Stop Trying to Obsessively Vilify Energy," would bar the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission from banning gas stoves.

Natural gas is used in more than a third of homes nationwide, but not every household can easily swap out their appliances, especially renters and low-income households, where the majority of asthmatic children live.

Levy pointed out studies have shown improved ventilation in these homes pays for itself when it comes to asthma-related health care costs.

"If we're thinking about folks who maybe are on Medicaid, this actually could be a wise government investment to try to reduce health care costs and health burdens," Levy contended.

The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, offers homeowners tax incentives for swapping out gas stoves for electric induction versions, as well as other energy-efficient appliances.

Levy added he would like to see a renewed focus on gas stoves to improve building codes, especially in low-income housing and disadvantaged neighborhoods.