Consumer Issues / Public News Service

Sustainable energy systems such as heat pumps are getting a lot of attention amid government incentives to reduce carbon emissions from homes and businesses. (Adobe Stock)

Friday, August 23, 2024

With help of federal aid, MN 'green building' projects take flight

The federal Inflation Reduction Act just turned two years old. Those tracking its implementation said when you peel back the layers, a lot is taking …

More than 80 percent of Oklahoma's wastewater sludge ends up in crop fields, according to an analysis by Investigate Midwest. (Losonsky/Adobe Stock)

Friday, August 23, 2024

Concern grows over 'forever chemicals' in biosolid fertilizers

By Ben Felder for Investigate Midwest.Broadcast version by Will Walkey for Oklahoma News Service reporting for the Investigate Midwest-Public News Ser…

A Building Decarbonization Coalition report showed the combination of high fuel costs and high distribution system costs can lead to rising cost requirements from ratepayers. (Adobe Stock)

Friday, August 23, 2024

NYS Public Service Commission approves gas rate increase

New York's Public Service Commission has approved a three-year rate increase for National Grid. The more than 19% rate increase will impact Brooklyn…

According to the Urban Institute, low-income people with medical debt are likely to forgo needed medical care, have difficulty meeting other basic needs and face an increased risk of bankruptcy. <br />(Andy Dean/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Routine medical care out of reach for some low-income AR residents

By Tess Vrbin for The Arkansas Advocate.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Arkansas News Service reporting for The Arkansas Advocate-Winthrop Rockefe…

A new poll found strong support for the Biden-Harris administration's agenda to lower prescription drug prices and stand up to big drug companies. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Report details Big Pharma’s price-gouging patent tactics

As advocacy groups take a victory lap for moving lawmakers to finally allow Medicare to negotiate lower prices for 10 widely-used medicines, a new …

The proposed Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets rule ensures that livestock and poultry producers would

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Proposed USDA rule defines “unfair” meat industry practice

A proposed rule from the U.S. Department of Agriculture would clarify fair practices in the American meat industry. The Fair and Competitive …

Supporters of the Inflation Reduction Act say clean energy installations bring jobs to local economies. Montana is eyeing the potential in wind energy infrastructure. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, August 19, 2024

IRA funds clean energy jobs in Montana, critics skeptical of cost

Environmental advocates are heralding added jobs and ecosystem protections funded through the Inflation Reduction Act, which just marked its two-year …

The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act is the largest climate investment in U.S. history, allocating around $370 billion to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels. (DMstock/Adobe Stock)

Driving Ohio's energy-efficiency plans with IRA support

This past Friday marked the second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, a milestone for Ohioans looking to make their buildings and homes more …

More than one in five Ohio residents, 2,427,966 people, receive Social Security benefits. The payments inject more than $44.7 billion into the state's economy every year. (Chris Langer)

Social Security at 89: Ohio conversation tackles myths and reform

As Social Security marks its 89th anniversary, the program's future remains a crucial topic of discussion. Jennifer Carlson, state director for AARP …

Federal officials said modernizing the power grid, including adding space for renewables, could make it more resilient in the face of climate-change-linked disasters, fueled by the use of fossil fuels. (Adobe Stock)

ND grid project could help keep lights on, aid regional workforce

American Clean Power Week runs through Friday and a planned project for the North Dakota region, to open up more space on the electric grid, is …

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services reported a child care staff vacancy rate of 26% in 2023, forcing some facilities to reduce capacity or close classrooms. (Adobe Stock)

NH voters find common ground on need for affordable child care

A majority of New Hampshire voters want elected officials to do more to fix the growing child care crisis, according to a new survey. More than 80% …

Just like meat processing, the agricultural industry has come under scrutiny over fears corporate consolidation is limiting a farmer's options in seeking equipment repairs. (Adobe Stock)

MN farmers feel left out by new 'Right to Repair' law

The fall harvest is around the corner and Minnesota farmers hope their equipment holds up. Advocates said a new state law, intended to level the …

The latest version of the Farm Bill would incorporate precision agriculture technologies into water conservation and irrigation efficiency practices, incentive contracts, and conservation innovation grants, according to the National Agriculture Law Center. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Stalled Farm Bill could see Conservation Title changes

Progress on the new Farm Bill remains stalled as members of Congress argue over price increases for commodity crops and proposed cuts to the Supplemen…

According to a 2022 Government Accountability Office report, 18% of people on Tribal lands did not have access to broadband internet, compared to only 4% in non-Tribal areas. (Adobe Stock)

‘Tension, confusion’ around broadband access in Indian Country

Some federal incentives to bring internet access to Indian Country neglected to require tribal participation, according to a new report. The Federal …

A Great Plains Institute study found health benefits valued at $63.8 million to $144 million from reducing harmful co-pollutants by installing carbon capture technologies in the Midwest region. (Ramon Cliff/Adobe Stock)

Carbon capture: Balancing industry, environment in Ohio

Ohio is becoming a focal point in the fight against climate change, thanks in part to its industrial might and a growing interest in carbon capture …

New Mexico implemented same-day voter registration in 2020, resulting in 11,449 new voters, according to a study by the University of New Mexico. (MariaVitkovska/AdobeStock)

League of Women Voters promotes civic participation one election at a time

The arrival of social media some 20 years ago has created a challenge when it comes to finding nonpartisan political information. The League of …

Lowry Ranch is important habitat for several Tier 1 species from the State Wildlife Action Plan, including the burrowing owl, northern leopard frog and swift fox. (Adobe Stock)

Aurora residents to continue opposition to fracking near reservoir, Superfund site

Aurora residents and environmental groups said they will continue to oppose fracking near the Aurora Reservoir, thousands of homes and 13 schools …

The Goonies Solar project in Central Pennsylvania is expected to generate enough clean energy to power 33,000 homes annually. (anatoliy_gleb/Adobe Stock) <br />

Two years of Inflation Reduction Act in Pennsylvania

The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law two years ago this week. In Pennsylvania, its effects so far include carbon reduction, job creation …

Human symptoms of U.S. avian influenza cases to date include conjunctivitis, mild respiratory symptoms and some increased lethargy, according to Crystal Heath of Our Honor. (Scott Griesel/Adobe Stock)

Growing concern over avian influenza in humans

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Kathleen Shannon for Texas News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaborati…

Florida has one of the highest uninsured rates for children in the nation. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Roadblocks to health persist for kids in FL

Health insurance prospects for Florida kids are not improving, despite pushes to increase coverage rates in the state. Florida continues to deny …

Animal rights groups point to commercial egg production facilities leaving hens in cages 24/7 as

Animal activists push back on AR factory-farm industry 'ag-gag' laws

Legislatures in states such as Arkansas and others are passing legislation, known as "ag-gag laws," to stop undercover reporting of the often …

In April, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued the first-ever national drinking water standard to protect communities from exposure to PFAS. (Adobe Stock)

Report: Pesticide use could do more harm than good

A new report sounded the alarm in states like Utah for the adverse health, wildlife and environmental impacts of toxic chemicals known as "PFAS." …

A new energy storage project in Lincoln, Maine, could help the state reach its climate goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030, and reach net zero emissions by 2045. (Adobe Stock) <br />

ME unions applaud construction of world’s largest battery storage system

Labor leaders in Maine say the approved construction of the world's largest energy storage system will also create quality union jobs. The project …

More than a quarter of Coloradans surveyed said they cut pills in half, skipped doses or did not fill prescriptions because of costs. (Adobe Stock)

Survey: Most Coloradans can’t afford basic health care

More than 70% of Coloradans believe drug companies, hospitals and insurance companies charge too much, according to a new Consumer Healthcare …

An AARP survey found 89% of people age 50+, and 90% of those ages 18-49, own a smartphone.(Seventyfour/Adobe Stock)

AARP grant funds Lincoln 'Digital Literacy' project for seniors

Many seniors report using technology on a regular basis but those who do not risk missing out due to its role in so much of daily life. "Digital …

Environmental groups say there is a need to reduce the use of such chemicals as PFAS and practice farming in ways that their use is no longer needed. (Adobe Stock)

Study finds high levels of PFAS chemicals in many pesticides

CLARIFICATION: Neonicotinoids may contain PFAS chemicals, but PFAS chemicals are not neonicotinoids. (12:30 p.m. MDT, Aug. 11, 2024) A class of …

The Texas Association of Health Care Centers says the state has a growing number of uninsured adults with severe chronic diseases, driving up the cost of care and forcing clinics to be creative in finding operating funds. (Adobe Stock)

National Health Center Week shows community clinics' challenges

This is National Health Center Week, and medical groups point to the growing demand for affordable healthcare services at a time when over 100 …

In a survey of Washingtonians, 90% said they're concerned about their health-care costs in the future. (Alex Wolf/Adobe Stock)

WA health care costs survey results 'alarming'

A new report finds Washingtonians are worried about the rising costs of health care -- in some cases even avoiding treatment because of the price tag…

Policies proposed in Project 2025 would undermine already enacted environmental and climate policies related to fossil-fuel production, climate action and environmental justice. (newmexico.org)

Project 2025 alarms NM's teachers, human rights advocates, conservationists

From education to the environment and immigration, proposals in the "Project 2025" document alarm many New Mexicans promoting a more equal society…

Approximately 16 of every 1,000 Mississippians were prescribed Ozempic last year, according to insurance data analyzed by health analytics firm PurpleLab. (Fernanda/AdobeStock)

Counterfeit weight loss medication spreads across Mississippi, nation

Counterfeit medicine sales are on the rise in Mississippi and nationwide. Online scammers are counterfeiting the weight-loss drug Ozempic, including …

According to the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, the Hoosier State ranks ninth as the largest farming state in the nation. (Adobe Stock)

IN farmers markets help food deserts, economy

This week is National Farmers Market Week, as fresh jams, jellies, fruits and vegetables draw thousands of people to more than 8,000 farmers markets …

According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the average size of a farm, including hobby farms, is 375 acres with grain, corn and soybeans as the main crops. (Adobe Stock)

IL farmers markets benefit communities, economy

This is National Farmers Market Week, as fresh jams, jellies, fruits and vegetables draw thousands of people to more than 8,000 farmers markets …

On January 1 and 2, Ohio recorded more 11.3 million betting transactions, the highest in the nation. Cincinnati led the state with 1.9 million transactions. Ohio is expected to see between $8 billion and $12 billion in bets placed in 2023.(ehrlif/Adobe Stock)

Ohio's sports betting boom and its effects

By John Hilber / Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi reporting for the Kent State NewsLab-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. In the first two days …

According to census data, the national average energy burden for low-income households is more than 8%, which is three times higher than for households that are not low-income. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Experts: Shifting to electricity could ease Ohioans’ energy burden

Natural gas is an unpredictable source of affordable energy, Ohio experts said, as more communities work to electrify homes and buildings to lower …

According to Consumer Affairs, more than 1.2 million vehicles were repossessed from borrowers nationwide in 2022. (FotoDax/Adobe Stock)

CA consumer groups pan bill 'repo man' would give rave review

Consumer groups are speaking out against legislation proposed in California which would make it easier to repossess a car or other property, by …

A plan to improve the U.S. Postal Service means Oregon mail must go through a processing center in Portland. (Tada Images/Adobe Stock)

Plan to restructure USPS faces opposition as mail delivery slows

Criticism of a plan to restructure U.S. mail service is mounting. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy's 10-year plan, called Delivering for America…

Extreme heat, a direct result of the rise in the Earth's temperature, kills more people in the U.S. than flooding and hurricanes combined. (StillIAmWorking/Adobe Stock, AI enhanced)

Fires, floods, heat: NM August 'town halls' focus on climate change

A summer of fires, floods and extreme heat have prompted a series of climate change town halls in New Mexico this month, ahead of the 2025 …

Wildfire smoke can be especially hard for people with preexisting respiratory conditions. (Cavan/Adobe Stock)

Tips for protecting homes during OR's wildfire season

Wildfires have burned across Oregon this year, but a few tips could help people protect themselves against their damaging impacts. Fires have …

The Hardeman County Community Health Center offers maternal health services, supporting women throughout pregnancy and postpartum. It provides care for early and mid-stage pregnancies and collaborates with a team of physicians to ensure healthy deliveries. (Hardeman Community Health Center)

Rural TN health centers celebrate National Health Center Week

This is National Health Center Week, highlighting the dedication of people working in 1,400 Community Health Centers across America - including 260 …

Political observers note artificial intelligence can be an inexpensive way to help candidates save time and money on advertising but many down-ballot campaigns lack the expertise to spot AI-generated falsehoods, which could tip races decided by narrow margins. (Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

Federal lawmakers tackle AI-generated ‘deepfakes’ as election nears

Newly introduced federal legislation aims to protect voters from the growing threat of political ads generated by artificial intelligence. …

University of Michigan Medicine is one of the nation's top academic medical centers. <br />(espiegle/Adobe Stock)<br />

MI Medicine unions fight for better pay, staffing

Two labor unions are fighting for their first collective bargaining agreements with the University of Michigan's Michigan Medicine. Workers held an …

Every county in the Land of Opportunity has at least one food desert, putting the state's food insecurity rate at 15.5%, well above the national average of 10.4%. (Danieldzura/Adobe Stock)

AR governor addresses food insecurity among students

By De'Stani Clark for the Arkansas Delta Informer.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Arkansas News Service reporting for The Arkansas Delta Informer-…

Various institutions offer resources to promote financial wellness but additional hurdles remain as institutions debate how to extend resources within diverse communities. (kerkezz/Adobe Stock)

Arkansas banks reach out to 'unbanked' residents

By De'Stani Clark for the Arkansas Delta Informer.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Arkansas News Service reporting for The Arkansas Delta Informer-…

A life-size butter sculpture of a cyclist is included in this year's butter cow display at the Ohio State Fair. Sculptors built a hidden armature to convey the motion of the cyclist leaning to the side as he rounds a curve. (American Dairy Association Mideast)

At Ohio State Fair, butter sculpture highlights local dairy industry

This week at the Ohio State Fair, residents can view 2,000 pounds of butter sculpted into cows and elite athletes, honoring the state's dairy …

More than half of single parents in Wyoming earn less than $17 per hour, according to an Oxfam America report. (Adobe Stock)

More than 1 in 4 WY workers would benefit from higher minimum wage

More than 80,000 Wyoming workers would benefit from an increased minimum wage, according to a new report. Wyoming is one of 16 states where …

New York State livestock management practices are the largest source of emissions in the agricultural sector, and have increased 50% since 1990, according to the New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation. (Adobe Stock)

Report: Litigation holds companies accountable for climate impacts

By Gabriella Sotelo for Sentient.Broadcast version by Edwin J. Viera for New York News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service …

A map from the University of Southern California shows communities in the Los Angeles area considered

USC researchers call for legislation to combat 'pharmacy deserts'

Research shows many people in low-income California communities are having a hard time filling their prescriptions because pharmacies in their area ar…

NC group works to boost financial literacy for youths

Young people are increasingly falling into debt through "Buy Now, Pay Later" apps and cash advance phone offers, much as with payday loans before …

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - August 23, 2024

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Consumer

With help of federal aid, MN 'green building' projects take flight

Concern grows over 'forever chemicals' in biosolid fertilizers

NYS Public Service Commission approves gas rate increase

Routine medical care out of reach for some low-income AR residents

Report details Big Pharma’s price-gouging patent tactics

Proposed USDA rule defines “unfair” meat industry practice

IRA funds clean energy jobs in Montana, critics skeptical of cost

Driving Ohio's energy-efficiency plans with IRA support

Social Security at 89: Ohio conversation tackles myths and reform

ND grid project could help keep lights on, aid regional workforce

NH voters find common ground on need for affordable child care

MN farmers feel left out by new 'Right to Repair' law

Stalled Farm Bill could see Conservation Title changes

‘Tension, confusion’ around broadband access in Indian Country

Carbon capture: Balancing industry, environment in Ohio

League of Women Voters promotes civic participation one election at a time

Aurora residents to continue opposition to fracking near reservoir, Superfund site

Two years of Inflation Reduction Act in Pennsylvania

Growing concern over avian influenza in humans

Roadblocks to health persist for kids in FL

Animal activists push back on AR factory-farm industry 'ag-gag' laws

Report: Pesticide use could do more harm than good

ME unions applaud construction of world’s largest battery storage system

Survey: Most Coloradans can’t afford basic health care

AARP grant funds Lincoln 'Digital Literacy' project for seniors

Study finds high levels of PFAS chemicals in many pesticides

National Health Center Week shows community clinics' challenges

WA health care costs survey results 'alarming'

Project 2025 alarms NM's teachers, human rights advocates, conservationists

Counterfeit weight loss medication spreads across Mississippi, nation

IN farmers markets help food deserts, economy

IL farmers markets benefit communities, economy

Ohio's sports betting boom and its effects

Experts: Shifting to electricity could ease Ohioans’ energy burden

CA consumer groups pan bill 'repo man' would give rave review

Plan to restructure USPS faces opposition as mail delivery slows

Fires, floods, heat: NM August 'town halls' focus on climate change

Tips for protecting homes during OR's wildfire season

Rural TN health centers celebrate National Health Center Week

Federal lawmakers tackle AI-generated ‘deepfakes’ as election nears

MI Medicine unions fight for better pay, staffing

AR governor addresses food insecurity among students

Arkansas banks reach out to 'unbanked' residents

At Ohio State Fair, butter sculpture highlights local dairy industry

More than 1 in 4 WY workers would benefit from higher minimum wage

Report: Litigation holds companies accountable for climate impacts

USC researchers call for legislation to combat 'pharmacy deserts'

NC group works to boost financial literacy for youths