Health Issues / Public News Service

A proposed $12 billion in cuts to federal school meal funding could impact 75 Montana schools serving more than 10,000 students. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, March 20, 2025

School meal programs on GOP's chopping block

Children's advocates are crying foul after House Republicans called for $12 billion in cuts to school meal programs, including the Community …

Research shows students' sense of belonging improves academic outcomes, increases continuing enrollment in school and is protective for mental health. (Monkey Business/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Immigrant children face increased cases of bullying across TX

As the immigration debate continues, many children of immigrants in Texas who are American citizens are caught in the middle. An elementary school …

Changes to Arkansas' abortion ban clarifies doctors acting in good faith would not be prosecuted for saving the life of a pregnant person. (Sikov/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

New findings: Arkansas abortion ban could impact potential workforce

As members of the Arkansas Legislature debate changing the wording in the state's abortion ban, a new study showed states with strict abortion laws …

Data show integrating community health workers into the health care system creates more cost-effective and sustainable care. (buritora/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

OR community health workers get a boost from tech

By Ramona Schindelheim for WorkingNation.Broadcast version by Isobel Charle for Oregon News Service reporting for the WorkingNation-Public News Servic…

Nationally, veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than are nonveteran adults, with an average of almost 18 veteran suicides per day in 2021. (flysnow/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

MI war veteran helps fellow vets access lifesaving resources

Michigan is home to more than 470,000 veterans, yet many have never accessed the military benefits to which they are entitled. The gap in support …

There were more than 5,700 cases of missing or murdered Indigenous women and girls reported in 2016 in the U.S. Fewer than 200 were logged in the Department of Justice database. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Alarming violence rates continue against Indigenous women

Indigenous people have made great contributions to the state of Wisconsin yet the alarming rates of violence against them remains a public health cris…

In January 2014, approximately 10,000 gallons of chemicals used to process coal spilled from a storage tank into the Elk River in West Virginia, a water source which serving 300-thousand people in the Charleston area.(Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Bill aims to weaken WV coal and gas industry chemical tank regulations

Lawmakers in the West Virginia Senate have passed a bill to remove mandated inspections for chemical storage tanks in the oil, coal and gas …

Some prison medical services require copays from those incarcerated, which can be a significant burden given the extremely low wages paid for prison labor. (b201735/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

New MO-based newsroom focuses on health and justice

The Missouri Foundation for Health is partnering with The Marshall Project on the launch of a St. Louis nonprofit newsroom highlighting the legal …

More than 15 million buprenorphine prescriptions were issued in 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, March 17, 2025

Kentucky proposes changes to buprenorphine prescribing, dispensing rules

The Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure recently proposed new changes to regulations around the prescribing and dispensing of buprenorphine, also …

Federal agencies are ramping up efforts to contain avian flu, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture rolling out a $1 billion plan focused on biosecurity, financial relief for affected producers and research into possible vaccines for poultry. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio leads nation in bird flu cases, consumers face rising costs

A Food and Water Watch report claims Ohio egg producers are profiting from the bird flu outbreak. Ohio, a top egg producer, has lost nearly 15 …

Expanded oil and gas subsidies, included in current versions of upcoming federal tax legislation, would support a massive expansion of LNG projects to more than double national export capacity by 2030. (Jeeraphun/Adobe Stock)

Religious leaders gather in TX to fight oil and gas subsidies

Forty religious leaders from different denominations gathered in Texas this week to call for an end to fossil-fuel subsidies and expansion of related …

State wages, salaries and benefits saw a nearly $1 billion increase in 2025, as Maryland lawmakers weigh major cuts to disability-assistance programs. (Adobe Stock)

Advocate: State budget proposals threaten disabled Marylanders

Maryland is facing a $3 billion budget deficit, and planned cuts in 2026 would include millions in disability assistance. But one advocate says those …

According to the World Health Organization, climate change presents a fundamental threat to human health. (Adobe Stock)

Health and climate: A growing crisis in Florida

As the warming climate continues to reshape the environment, its impact on people's health is becoming increasingly evident in Florida. Doctors and …

Research done in 2024 by Gardenpals.com found that during the pandemic nearly 19 million people, mostly millennials, tried gardening for the first time. (Adobe Stock)

Homegrown food interest is widening amid rising grocery costs, food recalls

March is National Nutrition Month and rising grocery costs, and food recalls have consumers revisiting the idea of growing their own healthier and …

Family caregivers spend on average more than $7,200 annually - 26% of their income - on out-of-pocket expenses. (Adobe Stock)

Doubling down on care: Ohio’s push for caregiver tax relief

In a significant development for family caregivers across America, AARP is spearheading initiatives at both federal and state levels to provide tax …

According to AARP, about 112,000 Montanans were caregivers in 2023. As nursing homes continue to close, experts predict the number will grow. (Adobe Stock)

Nursing homes close as Montanans age

The Montana governor's proposed budget includes cuts to funding for senior long-term care. Those in the already-struggling industry said as more …

The Grocery Tax Relief Act will eliminate the state grocery tax but have no effect on county and municipal grocery taxes. (Drazen/Adobe Stock)

AR food tax could be going away

Organizations working to fight food insecurity across Arkansas support two bills before state legislators. The Grocery Tax Relief Act would repeal …

The American Heart Association said a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan can increase survival rates by 50% or more when people are trained in practices like CPR or how to use an automated external defibrillator until first responders arrive. (Adobe Stock)

MN looks to ensure all schools are ready for cardiac scares

A Minnesota Senate committee today will hear testimony about a rare but scary scenario for families: sudden cardiac events in school settings…

In past deportation programs, for every half-million people the government deported, 44,000 U.S.-born workers lost their jobs. (Adobe Stock)

High moral stakes of proposed cuts to federal programs

A new report commissioned by faith leaders outlines the high moral stakes at play as the Trump administration pushes to cut federal programs to pay fo…

Advocacy groups said they lack confidence in Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s vision for reforming the nation's food and agriculture system. (Adobe Stock)

MAHA commission poised to extend RFK’s reach

By Nina B. Elkadi for Sentient.Broadcast version by Nadia Ramlagan for Kentucky News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service …

Nationally, the average cost of a dozen large eggs was $4.15 in December, up from $3.65 in November, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (Nitr/Adobe Stock)

Report: Bird flu not cause of rising egg prices in TX

A new report by the group Food and Water Watch said egg companies are exploiting the bird flu outbreak for profit. On average, the price of a dozen …

The Montana Food Bank Network distributed food through 330 partner organizations in 2024, including food pantries, schools, senior centers and more, according to the organization's impact report. (West Rose Media/Adobe Stock)

MT food bank, neighbors collaborate to improve food access for tribal nations

Food bank organizations teamed up in four states, including Montana, to launch the 104 Degrees West Collaborative in 2021 to better serve their …

The majority of human H5N1 cases have been found on the West Coast but have been reported in the Midwest and on the East Coast as well. Researchers are monitoring the virus thorough wastewater tracking, direct testing of at-risk people and those with symptoms and randomized sample testing. (Adobe Stock)

Barriers to tracking bird flu mount amid federal changes

By Nina B. Elkadi for Sentient.Broadcast version by Judith Ruiz-Branch for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service …

According to the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey from the Indiana Youth Institute, suicide is among the top three causes of death for kids ages 10-19. (Adobe Stock)

Adding supports for IN teens with mental health challenges

Diagnoses of mental health conditions in children and teens are on the rise, including in Indiana. But getting kids the help they need can be a …

The latest data from Open Sky Policy Institute show more than 182,000 Nebraska children are enrolled in Medicaid and other social service safety net programs. (Adobe Stock)

NE mental health providers warn Medicaid cuts would 'reverse progress'

Nebraska mental health professionals worry the Trump administration's proposed $880 billion in Medicaid funding cuts would threaten progress the state…

When it comes to solutions to address non-medical factors for those facing the most barriers to good health, 70% of Texans said it was

High cost of health care negatively affects many Texans

Almost two-thirds of Texans have skipped or postponed some form of health care in the past year because of cost. That's according to a survey by …

The American Diabetes Association reported 1.2 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes each year. (Adobe Stock)

FL lawmakers push to expand diabetes care with new bills

Florida lawmakers are taking steps to address the state's growing number of people with diabetes, by improving early detection and access to care…

The CDC recommends wearing personal protective equipment when handling sick or dead birds, cleaning and disinfecting contaminated areas, and avoiding stirring up dust or bird waste that may spread avian flu. (Jo-Anne McArthur/We Animals)

Fact-check: Backyard chickens aren’t safe from bird flu

By Gabriella Sotelo for Sentient.Broadcast version by Suzanne Potter for California News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collab…

The likelihood of exposure to H5N1 is higher among people consuming raw, unpasteurized milk from infected animals, although the chance of people contracting H5N1 from consuming raw milk is not clear at this time, according to the CDC. (Adobe Stock)

Experts worry as zoonotic disease research is reviewed by Trump admin

By Grey Moran for Sentient.Broadcast version by Alex Gonzalez for Arizona News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration…

The senior population is projected to exceed 95 million by 2060, indicating a growing demand for senior housing and related services. (WavebreakMediaMicro/Adobe Stock)

Cities in MI take action to become age-friendly

As Michigan's senior population steadily increases, the need for communities that prioritize their well-being becomes more critical. With nearly 2 …

About 1.2 million people in Wisconsin are covered by Medicaid, including nearly one-third of children in rural communities, and 12% of state residents receive SNAP benefits. (Adobe Stock)

WI group pitches in to help voters share views with reps in Congress

As new federal policies and proposed funding cuts spark confusion and chaos, Wisconsinites are looking to voice their concerns to their elected …

A governor's office spokesperson said the Indiana Department of Health will push back on birth certificate changes after this week's executive order. (Adobe Stock)

Indiana limits gender identity recognition, college sports participation

Executive orders have been issued by Indiana Gov. Mike Braun that restrict state funds from promoting gender identity and ban transgender women from …

In 2021, House Bill 335 was introduced which would allow Pennsylvania to observe daylight saving time year-round. It passed in the House, but didn't make it through the state Senate. (izzzy71/Adobe Stock)

Expert: Daylight saving time affects PA workers’ health, economy

This Sunday, most of the United States will "spring forward" for daylight saving time, which means losing an hour of sleep. Dr. Deepa Burman…

In Ohio, Medicaid covers nearly 40% of births and provides health care for one in four residents, including low-income families, seniors and people with disabilities. (Adobe Stock)

Medicaid cuts in Ohio: Who would pay the price?

Medicaid cuts being proposed in Congress could have widespread consequences in Ohio, particularly for hospitals and health-care facilities across the …

More than 166 million birds across the country have been affected by avian influenza. (panyawat/Adobe Stock)

Industrial farming in NC, US becomes breeding ground for bird flu

Industrial farming practices could be boosting the spread of bird flu. Avian influenza has been detected in poultry across the country, including in …

Started in 2019, the Tribal Foundational Public Health Service is designed to foster a more equitable, prevention-focused public health system for tribes. (jokekung/Adobe Stock)

Cuts looming for WA tribal public-health funding

Washington state's Tribal Foundational Public Health Service is the first dedicated funding for tribes to advance public health initiatives. In Gov…

The 2023 Ohio Annual Cancer Report shows Lawrence, Washington, Adams and Jackson counties had the highest rates of cancer per 100,000 residents between 2016 and 2020. (Adobe Stock)

OH cancer rates linked to processed food, low physical activity

Cancer rates are on the rise, and doctors are noticing specific types in younger age groups. There are more than 100 different types of cancer with …

Air Quality Index levels above 100 are considered unhealthy, especially for sensitive groups. (rck/Adobe Stock)

With ozone season, bad air days to increase in NC

Bad air quality days are a heightened concern as ozone season begins in North Carolina. Ozone season in the state lasts from March through October…

Colorado's 20 Community Health Centers provide primary care to 857,000 patients, employ over 7,500 people and contribute $1.7 billion to the state's economy each year. (Adobe Stock)

Cuts to Medicaid considered to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts

The budget resolution recently passed by the U.S. House calls for cutting $2 trillion in government spending to extend tax cuts passed during the …

In Kentucky, several correctional facilities have faced significant challenges related to extreme heat and inadequate cooling systems. (Adobe Stock)

Faith leaders: heat conditions in U.S. prisons are "inhumane"

Faith leaders and criminal justice advocates are sounding the alarm about extreme heat in U.S. prisons, warning life-threatening temperatures put …

In the short time that AllHealth Network's Violence Prevention Team has been at work, it has investigated and intervened in ten reported cases, and has seen an increase in referrals and requests for trainings. (Adobe Stock)

Trainings help communities recognize signs of potential targeted violence

The U.S. had more than 500 mass shootings last year, and a new program launched in Denver hopes to prevent targeted violence before it happens…

Sentient reports the animal death toll from avian flu highlights the sheer number of chickens and eggs humans eat on a regular basis. The American diet is highly dependent on chickens as a protein source. (Adobe Stock)

Bird flu outbreak resulted in even more dead poultry than usual

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration S…

The Texas House of Representatives has passed a bill to require all Texas prisons to have air conditioning by 2029 but the prison system only has to comply if the state provides the funding. (pict rider/Adobe Stock)

Faith leaders call out inhumane heat conditions in TX prisons

Only 30% of prisons in Texas have central air conditioning and faith leaders and advocates for those incarcerated are raising concerns about inhumane …

Samples taken in 2017 by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources found increased radioactivity after a commercial deicing liquid (oil and gas brine) was applied to roadways. (Siri Lawson, Farmington Township, Warren County)

OH Statehouse symposium to address oil, gas waste on rural roads

Concerns are growing in Ohio over the use of oil and gas waste for dust control on rural roads, a practice some environmental groups argued is …

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, the uninsured rate among American Indians and Alaska Natives under age 65 decreased 12 percentage points since passage of the Affordable Care Act, from 32.4% in 2010 to 19.9% in 2022. (Adobe Stock)

Open enrollment is over, but tribal members can still get health coverage

Open enrollment for health insurance from the online marketplace is over, but Wyoming experts are reminding tribal members that they qualify to …

Notably, one poll found nearly half of people who hold anti-abortion views are supportive of medical aid-in-dying legislation. (Adobe Stock)

Maryland medical aid-in-dying bill may pass after a decade

Advocates are urging Maryland lawmakers to support a bill that would approve medical aid in dying for people who are terminally ill. A poll last …

According to a new national report, businesses are responding to a patchwork of abortion bans across the country, with some offering relocation assistance and expanded benefits amid a backlash against tighter restrictions. (Adobe Stock)

New findings: State workforces suffer when abortion restrictions tighten

The 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn federal abortion protections continues to be felt. New research now suggests states where bans have …

A sustainability diet developed by scientists emphasized eating more fish, fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains and nuts. Dollar stores provide little of them. (Adobe Stock)

How every Marylander can eat sustainably for the planet

By Dharna Noor of The Guardian for Sentient.Broadcast version by Zamone Perez for Maryland News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Serv…

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the Public News Service (podcast)"
	"Hey Google, play the Public News Service podcast"
	"Alexa, play Public News Service podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the 2025 Talks podcast"
	"Hey Google, play the 2025 Talks podcast"
	"Alexa, play 2000 25 Talks podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the Yonder Report podcast"
	"Hey Google, play the Yonder Report podcast"
	"Alexa, play the Yonder Report podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

PNS Daily Newscast - March 20, 2025

2025Talks - March 20, 2025

The Yonder Report - March 20, 2025

Health

School meal programs on GOP's chopping block

Immigrant children face increased cases of bullying across TX

New findings: Arkansas abortion ban could impact potential workforce

OR community health workers get a boost from tech

MI war veteran helps fellow vets access lifesaving resources

Alarming violence rates continue against Indigenous women

Bill aims to weaken WV coal and gas industry chemical tank regulations

New MO-based newsroom focuses on health and justice

Kentucky proposes changes to buprenorphine prescribing, dispensing rules

Ohio leads nation in bird flu cases, consumers face rising costs

Religious leaders gather in TX to fight oil and gas subsidies

Advocate: State budget proposals threaten disabled Marylanders

Health and climate: A growing crisis in Florida

Homegrown food interest is widening amid rising grocery costs, food recalls

Doubling down on care: Ohio’s push for caregiver tax relief

Nursing homes close as Montanans age

AR food tax could be going away

MN looks to ensure all schools are ready for cardiac scares

High moral stakes of proposed cuts to federal programs

MAHA commission poised to extend RFK’s reach

Report: Bird flu not cause of rising egg prices in TX

MT food bank, neighbors collaborate to improve food access for tribal nations

Barriers to tracking bird flu mount amid federal changes

Adding supports for IN teens with mental health challenges

NE mental health providers warn Medicaid cuts would 'reverse progress'

High cost of health care negatively affects many Texans

FL lawmakers push to expand diabetes care with new bills

Fact-check: Backyard chickens aren’t safe from bird flu

Experts worry as zoonotic disease research is reviewed by Trump admin

Cities in MI take action to become age-friendly

WI group pitches in to help voters share views with reps in Congress

Indiana limits gender identity recognition, college sports participation

Expert: Daylight saving time affects PA workers’ health, economy

Medicaid cuts in Ohio: Who would pay the price?

Industrial farming in NC, US becomes breeding ground for bird flu

Cuts looming for WA tribal public-health funding

OH cancer rates linked to processed food, low physical activity

With ozone season, bad air days to increase in NC

Cuts to Medicaid considered to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts

Faith leaders: heat conditions in U.S. prisons are "inhumane"

Trainings help communities recognize signs of potential targeted violence

Bird flu outbreak resulted in even more dead poultry than usual

Faith leaders call out inhumane heat conditions in TX prisons

OH Statehouse symposium to address oil, gas waste on rural roads

Open enrollment is over, but tribal members can still get health coverage

Maryland medical aid-in-dying bill may pass after a decade

New findings: State workforces suffer when abortion restrictions tighten

How every Marylander can eat sustainably for the planet