Consumer Issues / Public News Service

The new law could increase people's credit score by 20 points on average. (Delmaine Donson/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, June 19, 2025

New law strikes medical debt from Oregonians' credit scores

A bill prohibiting credit reporting on Oregonians' medical debt has been signed into law by Gov. Tina Kotek. Hailed as a significant victory for …

Lawmakers have recently introduced legislation to compensate chicken farmers more fairly as they work to contain avian flu. (Nipawan/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Trump’s plan to lower egg prices, explained

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Suzanne Potter for California News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabor…

During the 2025 session Texas lawmakers passed House Bill 46, which expands the state's medical marijuana program. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said people who need THC for medical reasons will still have access to it. (S.Price/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Future of THC ban in TX unknown

Gov. Greg Abbott has until June 22 to sign or veto Senate Bill 3, which would ban consumable THC products in Texas. Banning items like vapes and …

Medical organizations said the effects of Alzheimer's are projected to rise in states like South Dakota and families should be more in tune with potential issues facing their loved one, including money management. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Money management skills focus of new dementia research

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month and new research examined the connection between dementia and awareness about money management skills…

A new Oregon law requires the Housing and Community Services Department to create a public homeownership goal dashboard. It will track statewide progress as well as regional and racial disparities. (mavoimages/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

OR passes homeownership goal, defunds homeownership programs

Advocates for homeownership in Oregon are celebrating a new bill which sets targets to boost the state's homeownership rate, currently at 64%…

In Fiscal Year 2024, Ohio's state-funded food programs created or sustained 292 jobs, supported $11.3 million in income and generated $38.4 million in economic output. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Ohio foodbanks: Funding needed for fresh food with local roots

Ohio food banks are urging state lawmakers to approve what they said is a modest budget increase needed to get more fresh, local produce into the …

According to one estimate, repealing clean energy tax credits would drive up electric bills in Tennessee by up to 15%, and commercial and industrial bills up to 19% in the next several years. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Congress' big budget bill risks $73 billion in Southeast clean energy investments

Tennessee's clean energy progress could stall if the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" now being debated in the U.S. Senate repeals some tax credits…

Indiana Department of Insurance data lists the top agency complaints as claim denials and delays, adjuster handling, unsatisfactory settlement offers and coverage inquiries. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Report: Slow insurance responses, weather affect IN home coverage costs

Homeowners' insurance costs continue to skyrocket and few choices remain for Hoosiers who cannot afford a premium increase or receive a coverage denia…

If the House budget reconciliation bill becomes law, annual cuts to Medicaid would average more than $70 billion in coming years, the same amount people earning $1 million or more per year would gain in tax cuts each year. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Policy expert warns MO hospitals could suffer under federal cuts

As Congress debates what's being called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, new Congressional Budget Office analysis estimates 16 million Americans - …

According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the Mountain State has seen a total of $339 million invested into the local solar industry.(Adobe Stock)

Monday, June 16, 2025

AEP proposes rate hikes, changes to net metering for WV customers

Appalachian Power and Wheeling Power, subsidiaries of the national utility American Energy Power, are asking West Virginia energy regulators to …

The Social Security Administration has been encouraging more people to use online services to access their benefits, but many rural Nebraskans lack access to high-speed internet or other technology that would allow them to take advantage of that option. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, June 16, 2025

AARP Nebraska marks Social Security's 90th anniversary

At least 10,000 people retire every day in the United States, with nearly half of them relying on Social Security as their sole source of income…

More than nine in 10 non-LGBTQ+ Americans believe Pride individuals should have the freedom to live their life without discrimination. (alexmak/Adobe Stock)

Monday, June 16, 2025

Despite backlash, NM residents support purveyors of LGBTQ+ Pride products

Boycotts over a Bud Light advertisement featuring a transgender customer and the Target Corporation for sales of Pride merchandise have not dampened N…

Student workers help distribute food as part of the 'Oh SNAP!' program at Cal Poly Humboldt. (Kellie Brown)

Monday, June 16, 2025

CA colleges and universities take food pantries to the next level

Hunger among college students in California has jumped dramatically since the pandemic, yet Cal-Fresh -- a statewide low-income food assistance …

More than two-thirds of SNAP recipients are in households with at least one child. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, June 16, 2025

Federal SNAP cuts threaten higher taxes or slashed benefits in VA, advocates say

Last week, Senate Republicans unveiled reduced cuts to food assistance programs in their version of the budget bill. The proposal from Senate …

The cost of replacing pipes is more than double the cost to electrify a home, at $35,000 compared to $16,300. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, June 16, 2025

Gas company criticized for slow projects in MD, Washington D.C.

As Washington D.C.'s sole gas company continues a multi-billion dollar, 40-year project to replace methane pipes, clean energy advocates argue the …

Upgrades to the Arkansas Water Plan include structural analysis of flood mitigation infrastructure and programs, and proposed solutions to reduce the impacts of flooding. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, June 16, 2025

Funding approved for AR water projects

Arkansas lawmakers passed several bills during this year's legislative session to upgrade and improve the state's water and wastewater systems…

Around 5.8 million cats and dogs were taken to shelters across the United States in 2024, down 1% from 2023. (hedgehog94/Adobe Stock)

Monday, June 16, 2025

Spay and neuter program designed to reduce stray animal population across TX

CLARIFICATION: An earlier version of this story described the spay/neuter effort as a "bill," rather than a pilot program. (12:16 a.m. MDT, June 16…

A single Abercrombie dairy facility will house 12,500 cows. Combined with the planned 25,000-cow Herberg site, these two operations will generate manure equivalent to that of a city of 1.5 million. (Adobe Stock)

ND mega-dairies draw criticism at Winnipeg news conference

North Dakota is facing growing opposition to two massive dairy operations planned near the Red River. Environmental advocates say the projects could …

California law bans unnecessary animal suffering but enforcement is rare in large-scale factory farms.(Adobe Stock)

Cal student faces prison for rescuing chickens

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi for California News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabora…

According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, thousands of Arkansans could lose Medicaid coverage because of work requirements. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe Stock)

AR residents could lose Medicaid under budget reconciliation bill

As Congress considers cuts to safety-net programs for what Republicans are calling the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," new analysis from the nonpartisan…

Experts warn a government agency would not call or text you out of nowhere. (Adobe Stock)

MD seniors targeted by scammers, experts offer tips to protect finances

Next Monday marks the beginning of "PROTECT" week, when AARP helps seniors learn the signs of financial fraud. Experts say Maryland seniors can …

The average cost for a gallon of regular gas is about $3.24 in Pennsylvania, according to AAA. (Dusan Petkovic/AdobeStock)

Survey: Gasoline burden highest among Black and Latino drivers in PA

As federal electric vehicle incentives face potential rollbacks, a new study highlighted the burden of gasoline costs on Black and Latino …

Among those surveyed, 85% of Americans believe CEOs have a responsibility to speak up about things that matter to their consumers and shareholders, according to GLAAD. (Adobe Stock)

Pride products from companies supported by consumers, report finds

Pride Month is here and new research finds most consumers in Maryland and across the country stand behind brands who support the LGBTQ+ community…

Compostable packaging made from seaweed or food waste is a more sustainable alternative to plastic wrappers and foam. (Sway)

CA makers of compostable packaging call for state, federal policy changes

California companies making compostable packaging materials said their products could make a huge dent in the problem of plastic pollution but only wi…

Consumer advocates warned Florida Power & Light's proposed rate increase would mean its customers would be locked into supporting natural gas over cleaner, price-stable alternatives, like solar energy. (Silberfuchs/Pixabay)

Could FPL’s $9B rate hike deepen FL energy affordability crisis?

Florida Power & Light's request for a nearly $9 billion rate hike, possibly the largest in state history, has sparked concern about the potential …

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is partnering with three area colleges to offer a free workshop series on energy costs and reduction through June. (Ameresco)

Southwest WI a hotbed for clean energy

Southwest Wisconsin is seeing a surge in clean energy, emerging as a hotbed for large-scale renewable projects proponents said are economically …

The average American home contains more than 300,000 items. (Adobe Stock)

Experts: VA seniors should declutter their homes for brain health

June is Brain Awareness Month, and experts say Virginia seniors should consider decluttering their homes to improve brain health. According to an …

According to the US Energy Information Administration, Michigan ranks 10th among the states in total population and total energy consumption. (Adobe Stock)

Expert: Michiganders could pay millions to support outdated coal plant

Michigan taxpayers may end up footing the bill to keep an aging coal plant open. The J.H. Campbell plant was scheduled to close on May 31, but a …

In its latest survey of audit firms representing U.S. companies, The Center for Audit Quality said 42% of respondents suggested they are pulling back or limiting capital investments in anticipation of regulatory moves. (Adobe Stock)

Survey: Recession fears, trade uncertainty fuel economic pessimism

Optimism is falling and pessimism is rising among businesses getting a read on the U.S. economy, according to a new national survey. The findings …

The Williams Institute reported almost three million members of the LGBTQ+ community live in the Midwest. (Adobe Stock)

Survey: IN businesses benefit from offering Pride merchandise

A new survey found most consumers stand behind brands showing support for the LGBTQ+ community. GLAAD, the nonprofit behind the survey, said it …

Small businesses line Main Street in downtown Whitesburg, Ky. (Adobe Stock)

Disaster recovery workshops slated for eastern KY small business owners

As eastern Kentucky communities attempt to bounce back from a string of natural disasters, more small businesses are struggling to get back on their …

NorthWestern Energy increased electric rates for its Montana customers by about 17% on May 23, legally but without approval. Montana's Public Service Commission on June 9 will hear arguments for another rate hike. (Adobe Stock)

Coalition to rally Monday opposing NorthWestern rate hike

Groups opposed to NorthWestern Energy's latest rate-hike proposal plan to rally on Monday in Helena. In an unusual move, the utility giant used a …

Summer food feeding sites can be found by texting

AR summer food programs prepare to feed students

With the start of summer, organizations across Arkansas are ramping up programs to ensure kids have access to healthy food. The No Kid Hungry …

The average cost for a gallon of regular gas is about $3 in Wisconsin. (Adobe Stock)

Study: Blacks, Latinos disproportionately burdened by gas costs

As federal electric vehicle incentives face potential rollbacks, a new study is highlighting the burden of gasoline costs on Black and Latino drivers …

Solar dominated new U.S. energy additions in 2024, accounting for 66% of all electricity-generating capacity installed. (Dmitry/Adobe Stock)

OR experts warn not all solar promotions are trustworthy

As utility rates rise in Oregon, data shows home solar panels are becoming more popular. However, experts warn of increasing misinformation and …

While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has not declared glyphosate itself carcinogenic, some toxicologists have said the components in the pesticide Roundup, a herbicide which includes glyphosate, make it 50 times more toxic than glyphosate alone. (Adobe Stock)

Cancer 'Gag Act' sputters in Iowa, federal push continues

Groups advocating for clean, safe water are pushing back on proposals to revive a pesticide labeling law introduced last year in Congress which would …

As part of Illinois' Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, consumers can receive rebates of up to $4,000 for electric vehicle purchases. (Adobe Stock)

Study: Black, Latino drivers burdened as ‘superusers’ of gasoline

As federal electric vehicle incentives face potential rollbacks, a new study is highlighting the burden of gasoline costs on Black and Latino drivers…

Organizers of Pride events said they want entities with big platforms to back the LGTBQ+ community year-round, including during legislative seasons and not just supportive messages and sponsorships during June. (Adobe Stock)

Under political storm, MN Pride events look to genuine community support

As Pride events take shape in June, Minnesota organizers recognize a more hostile political climate this year toward LGBTQ+ populations. It has …

Coloradans support companies selling LGBTQ+ Pride products

In 2023, Bud Light faced backlash after transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney promoted the beer and Target has experienced backlash for selling LGBTQ+…

Medicare Fraud Prevention Week is an annual event near the date 6/5, because people become eligible for Medicare at age 65. (Senior Medicare Patrol)

Experts warn of scams during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week

Medicare loses $60 billion to $80 billion a year to fraud and this year, for Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, your local Senior Medicare Patrol has …

Opponents of Senate Bill 791 include the Consumer Federation of California, Consumer Reports, California Low Income Consumer Coalition, Public Counsel, Consumer Attorneys of CA, and Housing and Economic Rights Advocates. (Exnoi/Adobe Stock)<br />

CA Senate to vote on bill to allow car dealers to increase fees

When you buy a car in California, the most the dealer can charge to process the sales documents is $85 but the cap could be raised to $500 if Senate …

A GLAAD survey showed 64% of African Americans, 55% of Hispanic Americans and 60% of individuals aged 18-34 feel comfortable with brands openly support LGBTQ+ organizations and nonprofits. (Viktor/Adobe Stock)

Survey: Pennsylvania consumers support companies selling Pride products

June is Pride Month and new research found most Pennsylvania consumers back brands supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The Gay and Lesbian Alliance …

Recent Consumer Reports testing found concerning pesticide levels, some 100 times higher than deemed safe, in 20 percent of the foods tested, including common produce items such as blueberries and green beans. (AdobeStock)

Lawsuit seeks transparency on new dietary guidelines affecting Tennesseans

A nonprofit is suing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, for not releasing records that could show beef industry influence in the …

The global tiny-homes market was valued at approximately $21.93 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $29.88 billion by 2033. (ckellyphoto/Adobe Stock)

Branson fights big housing crisis with tiny homes

Contractors have broken ground on a tiny-home village in Branson, where poverty is a growing concern. While tourists flock to Branson by the …

Survey: Consumers support companies that sell Pride products

Pride Month is here and new research has found most consumers stand behind brands who show their support to the LGBTQ+ community. GLAAD, the LGBTQ …

According to Gallup, the number of self-identifying LGBTQ+ Americans is up more than 160% since 2012. (Adobe Stock)

Survey: Americans support LGBTQ products during Pride Month

Pride Month is here and new research found most consumers stand behind brands who show their support to the LGBTQ+ community, which represents about 6…

A minimal data center has a capacity of five megawatts of electricity, while the largest, sometimes called

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Report: WV residents could foot bill for VA data center infrastructure

An influx of data center infrastructure in neighboring Virginia will likely leave Mountain State residents with higher energy bills, according to a …

More than 25 food policy councils operate across Ohio, working at local and regional levels to improve food access, public health and local agriculture. (Adobe Stock)

Third Ohio city joins global pact to strengthen food systems

The city of Cleveland, Ohio, has joined a global pact to improve urban food systems. Officials say the step builds on efforts to assess food access …

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - June 19, 2025

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Consumer

New law strikes medical debt from Oregonians' credit scores

Trump’s plan to lower egg prices, explained

Future of THC ban in TX unknown

Money management skills focus of new dementia research

OR passes homeownership goal, defunds homeownership programs

Ohio foodbanks: Funding needed for fresh food with local roots

Congress' big budget bill risks $73 billion in Southeast clean energy investments

Report: Slow insurance responses, weather affect IN home coverage costs

Policy expert warns MO hospitals could suffer under federal cuts

AEP proposes rate hikes, changes to net metering for WV customers

AARP Nebraska marks Social Security's 90th anniversary

Despite backlash, NM residents support purveyors of LGBTQ+ Pride products

CA colleges and universities take food pantries to the next level

Federal SNAP cuts threaten higher taxes or slashed benefits in VA, advocates say

Gas company criticized for slow projects in MD, Washington D.C.

Funding approved for AR water projects

Spay and neuter program designed to reduce stray animal population across TX

ND mega-dairies draw criticism at Winnipeg news conference

Cal student faces prison for rescuing chickens

AR residents could lose Medicaid under budget reconciliation bill

MD seniors targeted by scammers, experts offer tips to protect finances

Survey: Gasoline burden highest among Black and Latino drivers in PA

Pride products from companies supported by consumers, report finds

CA makers of compostable packaging call for state, federal policy changes

Could FPL’s $9B rate hike deepen FL energy affordability crisis?

Southwest WI a hotbed for clean energy

Experts: VA seniors should declutter their homes for brain health

Expert: Michiganders could pay millions to support outdated coal plant

Survey: Recession fears, trade uncertainty fuel economic pessimism

Survey: IN businesses benefit from offering Pride merchandise

Disaster recovery workshops slated for eastern KY small business owners

Coalition to rally Monday opposing NorthWestern rate hike

AR summer food programs prepare to feed students

Study: Blacks, Latinos disproportionately burdened by gas costs

OR experts warn not all solar promotions are trustworthy

Cancer 'Gag Act' sputters in Iowa, federal push continues

Study: Black, Latino drivers burdened as ‘superusers’ of gasoline

Under political storm, MN Pride events look to genuine community support

Coloradans support companies selling LGBTQ+ Pride products

Experts warn of scams during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week

CA Senate to vote on bill to allow car dealers to increase fees

Survey: Pennsylvania consumers support companies selling Pride products

Lawsuit seeks transparency on new dietary guidelines affecting Tennesseans

Branson fights big housing crisis with tiny homes

Survey: Consumers support companies that sell Pride products

Survey: Americans support LGBTQ products during Pride Month

Report: WV residents could foot bill for VA data center infrastructure

Third Ohio city joins global pact to strengthen food systems