Trump Fires Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Head Who Drew Wall Street's IreRohit Chopra was removed as CFPB Director after being praised for returning over $6 billion to consumers and holding powerful companies accountable.
Newsom Vetoes California Bill Against Private Equity Firms' Health Care Takeovers | KQEDThe veto of a healthcare consumer protection bill is a setback for patient care advocacy in California.
Ointment appeal for disabled teen on 'last tube'The family of a disabled teenager criticized inflated prices for a discontinued ointment needed for pressure sores.
More Than 70 Orgs Urge Congress to Extend Enhanced Premium Tax Credits - MedCity NewsOver 70 organizations urge Congress to extend enhanced premium tax credits to avoid increased healthcare costs for millions by 2026.
Newsom Vetoes California Bill Against Private Equity Firms' Health Care Takeovers | KQEDThe veto of a healthcare consumer protection bill is a setback for patient care advocacy in California.
Ointment appeal for disabled teen on 'last tube'The family of a disabled teenager criticized inflated prices for a discontinued ointment needed for pressure sores.
More Than 70 Orgs Urge Congress to Extend Enhanced Premium Tax Credits - MedCity NewsOver 70 organizations urge Congress to extend enhanced premium tax credits to avoid increased healthcare costs for millions by 2026.
FCC chair nixes plan to boost broadband competition in apartment buildingsThe new FCC chair's withdrawal of a proposal on bulk billing is praised by housing industry lobby groups for its consumer benefits.
Cable companies and Trump's FCC chair agree: Data caps are good for youData caps are seen as profit-driven tools by ISPs, affecting consumers adversely, particularly low-income households.
FCC chair nixes plan to boost broadband competition in apartment buildingsThe new FCC chair's withdrawal of a proposal on bulk billing is praised by housing industry lobby groups for its consumer benefits.
Cable companies and Trump's FCC chair agree: Data caps are good for youData caps are seen as profit-driven tools by ISPs, affecting consumers adversely, particularly low-income households.
4 Ways Readers Fought the Travel Industry and Won After a Travel ProblemTravelers can effectively resolve issues with airlines and service providers through diligent strategy and by leveraging available resources.
Problem Solved: Hey Sears, where's the refund for the Master Protection on my washer?Sears failed to process a second refund for a Master Protection Agreement after four months, indicating a likely clerical error.
4 Ways Readers Fought the Travel Industry and Won After a Travel ProblemTravelers can effectively resolve issues with airlines and service providers through diligent strategy and by leveraging available resources.
Problem Solved: Hey Sears, where's the refund for the Master Protection on my washer?Sears failed to process a second refund for a Master Protection Agreement after four months, indicating a likely clerical error.
Kraft Heinz hits back at what it called Trudeau's 'misleading' comment about its Canadian ketchup | CBC NewsKraft Heinz Canada rebuts Trudeau's comments on ketchup's production history, emphasizing its commitment to Canadian jobs and local sourcing.
Competition watchdog role for ex-boss of Amazon UK a slap in face', say unionsDoug Gurr's appointment as CMA chair has sparked controversy and criticism from trade unions and consumer activists during a tech industry investigation.
As insurance companies leave high-risk areas, many turn to 'last resort' insuranceThe rise of 'last resort' insurance is highlighting a fragile system as more insurers exit high-risk markets. This could lead to significant financial issues.
FDA follows California in banning red dye No. 3 from foodsThe FDA has banned Red 3 from food products due to cancer risks found in lab studies, aligning with earlier cosmetic bans.
How the FDA allows companies to add secret ingredients to our foodThe FDA's GRAS system enables corporations to add potentially harmful ingredients to food without sufficient regulatory oversight or transparency.
He Regulated Medical Devices. His Wife Represented Their Makers.Dr. Jeffrey E. Shuren's FDA career was marked by both record device approvals and significant ethical concerns due to his industry's connections.
FDA sets limits for lead in many baby foods as California disclosure law takes effectThe FDA has established voluntary maximum lead levels in baby food to protect young children from exposure to harmful toxins.
FDA Limits Toxic Lead in Some Baby FoodsFDA sets voluntary lead limits in baby foods to reduce exposure by 20%-30% but faces criticism for insufficient coverage and slow action.
FDA Bans Red Dye 3 in Foods, Linking It to Cancer in RatsRed Dye No. 3 banned by the FDA due to cancer concerns, a decision welcomed as long overdue after over three decades of use.
FDA follows California in banning red dye No. 3 from foodsThe FDA has banned Red 3 from food products due to cancer risks found in lab studies, aligning with earlier cosmetic bans.
How the FDA allows companies to add secret ingredients to our foodThe FDA's GRAS system enables corporations to add potentially harmful ingredients to food without sufficient regulatory oversight or transparency.
He Regulated Medical Devices. His Wife Represented Their Makers.Dr. Jeffrey E. Shuren's FDA career was marked by both record device approvals and significant ethical concerns due to his industry's connections.
FDA sets limits for lead in many baby foods as California disclosure law takes effectThe FDA has established voluntary maximum lead levels in baby food to protect young children from exposure to harmful toxins.
FDA Limits Toxic Lead in Some Baby FoodsFDA sets voluntary lead limits in baby foods to reduce exposure by 20%-30% but faces criticism for insufficient coverage and slow action.
FDA Bans Red Dye 3 in Foods, Linking It to Cancer in RatsRed Dye No. 3 banned by the FDA due to cancer concerns, a decision welcomed as long overdue after over three decades of use.
Ralph Nader, Consumer Crusader (Throwback)The U.S. consumer movement, led by Ralph Nader, empowered citizens to demand corporate accountability during times of distrust.
FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3 From FoodsU.S. regulators banned Red 3 from food due to potential cancer risk, following its prior ban in cosmetics.
How the FDA allows companies to add secret ingredients to our foodThe GRAS system allows food companies to self-determine ingredient safety, risking public health by keeping consumers unaware of potentially harmful additives.
McDonald's and Boar's Head outbreaks may have you worried. Experts say the food supply is safeDespite recent high-profile recalls and outbreaks, experts maintain that the U.S. food supply remains one of the safest globally.
FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3 From FoodsU.S. regulators banned Red 3 from food due to potential cancer risk, following its prior ban in cosmetics.
How the FDA allows companies to add secret ingredients to our foodThe GRAS system allows food companies to self-determine ingredient safety, risking public health by keeping consumers unaware of potentially harmful additives.
McDonald's and Boar's Head outbreaks may have you worried. Experts say the food supply is safeDespite recent high-profile recalls and outbreaks, experts maintain that the U.S. food supply remains one of the safest globally.
California insurance department accused of hiding information on life insurance complaintsCalifornia's Department of Insurance may be unlawfully withholding consumer complaint data on life insurance, raising transparency and accountability concerns.
Baby food labels will reveal levels of lead, other heavy metals for first time under California lawCalifornia law requires monthly testing of baby foods for toxic heavy metals, providing transparency for parents about what they are feeding their children.
California says restaurants must bake all of their add-on fees into menu pricesCalifornia restaurant law mandates transparent pricing with penalties for violations.
California insurance department accused of hiding information on life insurance complaintsCalifornia's Department of Insurance may be unlawfully withholding consumer complaint data on life insurance, raising transparency and accountability concerns.
Baby food labels will reveal levels of lead, other heavy metals for first time under California lawCalifornia law requires monthly testing of baby foods for toxic heavy metals, providing transparency for parents about what they are feeding their children.
California says restaurants must bake all of their add-on fees into menu pricesCalifornia restaurant law mandates transparent pricing with penalties for violations.
Harris backs slashing medical debt. Trump's "concepts" worry advocates.Advocates urge Kamala Harris to advance measures tackling medical debt and ensuring health insurance access.
Most medical debt can no longer hurt your credit score under new California lawStarting January 1, 2025, California law will stop reporting medical debt to credit agencies, helping those with unpaid medical bills maintain their credit scores.
Harris backs slashing medical debt. Trump's "concepts" worry advocates.Advocates urge Kamala Harris to advance measures tackling medical debt and ensuring health insurance access.
Most medical debt can no longer hurt your credit score under new California lawStarting January 1, 2025, California law will stop reporting medical debt to credit agencies, helping those with unpaid medical bills maintain their credit scores.
from www.npr.org1 month agoBig Health Care is ending a terrible year. Is anyone happy with this business?Health care companies are facing increased scrutiny following the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, highlighting issues of high costs and denied claims.
What to Know About MrBeast's Controversial Sweepstakes Partner MoneyLionMrBeast's reality show raises ethical concerns due to its partnership with MoneyLion, potentially exposing young fans to predatory loan practices.
Junk Fees' or Unbundling'? Airlines and Senators Battle Over Added Costs.Airlines charge fees for services like checking bags, raising costs for passengers.Senators argue these fees are exploitative, while airlines frame them as consumer choices.
Watchdog group asks FTC to investigate Dr. Oz's influencer marketingMehmet Oz faces investigation for failing to disclose financial ties to a supplement company while promoting it extensively on social media.
Consumer watchdog wants FTC to investigate Oz for influencer marketing violationsDr. Mehmet Oz may have violated influencer marketing rules by failing to properly disclose financial ties to iHerb.
Watchdog group asks FTC to investigate Dr. Oz's influencer marketingMehmet Oz faces investigation for failing to disclose financial ties to a supplement company while promoting it extensively on social media.
Consumer watchdog wants FTC to investigate Oz for influencer marketing violationsDr. Mehmet Oz may have violated influencer marketing rules by failing to properly disclose financial ties to iHerb.
Mehmet Oz endorsed products without noting financial ties, watchdog saysDr. Mehmet Oz's undisclosed endorsements of herbal supplements raise ethical and regulatory compliance concerns regarding his position overseeing Medicare.
Online Bank Users Horrified as Their Savings Accounts Vanish Into Thin AirBanking startup failures have left customers' savings in jeopardy, leading to financial ruin for individuals trusting these platforms.
Warning issued to Black Friday shoppers over sneaky pricing tactics'Many Black Friday deals may not offer real savings, as research shows most prices are comparable to previous periods.Consumers should exercise caution and verify sale prices during Black Friday sales to avoid misleading promotions.
What Time Do Stores Open on Black Friday? Here's What We Know About Some Major ChainsBlack Friday is evolving with e-commerce, shifting from a single day of deals to an extended promotional period.
Warning issued to Black Friday shoppers over sneaky pricing tactics'Many Black Friday deals may not offer real savings, as research shows most prices are comparable to previous periods.Consumers should exercise caution and verify sale prices during Black Friday sales to avoid misleading promotions.
What Time Do Stores Open on Black Friday? Here's What We Know About Some Major ChainsBlack Friday is evolving with e-commerce, shifting from a single day of deals to an extended promotional period.
Chinese Women Mobilize Against Subpar Sanitary PadsMany sanitary pad brands in China have been found to measure shorter than advertised, leading to calls for stricter regulatory oversight.
More Google search woes | Computer WeeklyThe UK Competition Appeal Tribunal has certified a £7bn collective action against Google for its dominance in the search market and its impact on consumers.
Baby formula could be price capped to fight soaring costs, UK watchdog saysThe UK's Competition and Markets Authority is proposing price caps on baby formula to help vulnerable families amid rising costs.
Brexit wine tax sparks call for consumers to pressure MPsThe proposed post-Brexit wine tax could significantly raise prices and cause popular wines to vanish from shelves, prompting urgent action from consumers.
Biden Targets a New Economic Villain: ShrinkflationPresident Biden criticizes companies for shrinkflation during a video on Super Bowl Sunday.Consumer advocate Edgar Dworsky influenced Mr. Biden's economic argument against companies using shrinkflation tactics.
Baby formula could be price capped to fight soaring costs, UK watchdog saysThe UK's Competition and Markets Authority is proposing price caps on baby formula to help vulnerable families amid rising costs.
Brexit wine tax sparks call for consumers to pressure MPsThe proposed post-Brexit wine tax could significantly raise prices and cause popular wines to vanish from shelves, prompting urgent action from consumers.
Biden Targets a New Economic Villain: ShrinkflationPresident Biden criticizes companies for shrinkflation during a video on Super Bowl Sunday.Consumer advocate Edgar Dworsky influenced Mr. Biden's economic argument against companies using shrinkflation tactics.
If You Enjoy Making Smart Purchases (AKA Things You'll Get A Lot Of Good Use Out Of), Then You Should Definitely Check Out This PostThe article showcases valuable product recommendations aimed at maximizing customer satisfaction and value.
The Art of Reviewing: Tips from HackerNoon Editors | HackerNoonObjective and balanced reviews are essential for credibility and consumer trust in product evaluations.
Calls for MP to resign role over fuel payment voteMP Liz Twist's support for cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment has sparked criticism and calls for her resignation from her charity position.
Starmer is intent in creating more problems for himself - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.comGovernment's proposed health measures are criticized for potentially harming consumers and undermining media independence.
Calls for MP to resign role over fuel payment voteMP Liz Twist's support for cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment has sparked criticism and calls for her resignation from her charity position.
Starmer is intent in creating more problems for himself - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.comGovernment's proposed health measures are criticized for potentially harming consumers and undermining media independence.
Consumer advocate says policy changes are needed to help FHA buyers competeCFA calls for policy changes to support FHA loan users in tight housing markets, especially minority first-time homebuyers.
Disabled woman banned from Asda in south east London 'for not showing ID for her service dog'Banned from all Asda stores, a disabled woman advocates for her rights after being wrongly denied access with her service dog.
Consumer advocate says policy changes are needed to help FHA buyers competeCFA calls for policy changes to support FHA loan users in tight housing markets, especially minority first-time homebuyers.
Disabled woman banned from Asda in south east London 'for not showing ID for her service dog'Banned from all Asda stores, a disabled woman advocates for her rights after being wrongly denied access with her service dog.
T-Mobile, AT&T oppose unlocking rule, claim locked phones are good for usersThe proposed FCC rule to unlock phones within 60 days may harm consumers by limiting handset options and subsidies.
Trump's Likely FCC Boss, Brendan Carr, Tries To Undermine Popular Infrastructure Bill Broadband ImprovementsThe BEAD program is essential for enhancing broadband access and competition, especially among low-income communities.
Protesters demand Kellogg remove artificial colors from Froot Loops and other cerealsKellogg's U.S. products still contain artificial colors despite global changes and public calls for healthier ingredients.
Mother dies after being trapped and suffocated in own ottoman bedFaulty ottoman beds pose a risk of serious injury or death, necessitating urgent regulatory action to prevent future accidents.
Does paying the rent help build your credit score?Rent payments do not typically contribute to building credit history unless enrolled in a rent reporting program.
Politicians' proposals would only minimally lower US drug prices, says reportMost popular drug pricing proposals may only slightly reduce costs; systemic change is needed.Single policy won't suffice—multiple strategies necessary to control drug prices.
Questions raised about failed bills aiming to hold CA insurance industry accountableCalifornia's insurance crisis worsens as consumers face skyrocketing rates and reduced options due to insurers withdrawing from the market.
from www.theguardian.com3 months agoWine sellers campaign against looming alcohol duty planWine retailers are warning of impending price increases due to a new tax system effective February 1, impacting quality and choice.
Mass. congressional delegation wants answers from Stop & Shop about price disparitiesStop & Shop faces scrutiny over price disparities between neighborhoods, prompting lawmakers to demand explanations and changes from the grocer's parent company.
PG&E and California lawmakers point the blame at each other for skyrocketing billsSkyrocketing PG&E bills are largely influenced by utility regulators, with customers feeling powerless despite efforts to reduce usage.
California insurance official takes heat over proposed reformsCalifornia Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is facing backlash over insurance reforms amid significant rate hikes and market withdrawals by major insurers.
California Assembly passes measure aimed at easing gas price spikes critics say it will cause themCalifornia Assembly passed a bill aimed at regulating gas refinery maintenance to prevent price spikes and protect consumers.
Brace for impact, California drivers! Car insurance rates set to skyrocket. Here's whyCalifornia drivers face an unprecedented auto insurance rate increase of 54% by year's end, significantly higher than the national average.
Homeowners join consumer advocates in assailing California insurance reformsCalifornia homeowners and advocates oppose insurance reforms, fearing it undermines Proposition 103.Insurance Commissioner Lara proposes reforms to attract insurers back, citing climate change challenges.
After pushback, Gavin Newsom cuts much of his electric bill affordability plan. What's next?California's legislative session is unlikely to produce significant relief for residents facing high electric bills.Consumer advocates are fighting against utilities backed by financial interests for ratepayer relief.
PG&E and California lawmakers point the blame at each other for skyrocketing billsSkyrocketing PG&E bills are largely influenced by utility regulators, with customers feeling powerless despite efforts to reduce usage.
California insurance official takes heat over proposed reformsCalifornia Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is facing backlash over insurance reforms amid significant rate hikes and market withdrawals by major insurers.
California Assembly passes measure aimed at easing gas price spikes critics say it will cause themCalifornia Assembly passed a bill aimed at regulating gas refinery maintenance to prevent price spikes and protect consumers.
Brace for impact, California drivers! Car insurance rates set to skyrocket. Here's whyCalifornia drivers face an unprecedented auto insurance rate increase of 54% by year's end, significantly higher than the national average.
Homeowners join consumer advocates in assailing California insurance reformsCalifornia homeowners and advocates oppose insurance reforms, fearing it undermines Proposition 103.Insurance Commissioner Lara proposes reforms to attract insurers back, citing climate change challenges.
After pushback, Gavin Newsom cuts much of his electric bill affordability plan. What's next?California's legislative session is unlikely to produce significant relief for residents facing high electric bills.Consumer advocates are fighting against utilities backed by financial interests for ratepayer relief.
At the Hard Rock Hotel, FHA's Gordon talks reverse mortgage observations, possible enhancementsFHA Commissioner Julia Gordon emphasizes the growing importance of the HECM program for financially unprepared seniors.
Council rejects Texas Gas Service rate hike - Austin MonitorTexas Gas Service's revised proposal to raise fees still lacks City Council's approval, highlighting ongoing concerns about affordability for Austin residents.
Texas Gas Service rate hearing at Council this Thursday - Austin MonitorThe City Council is holding a public hearing on a proposed rate increase by Texas Gas Service that could significantly impact residential customers.
Council rejects Texas Gas Service rate hike - Austin MonitorTexas Gas Service's revised proposal to raise fees still lacks City Council's approval, highlighting ongoing concerns about affordability for Austin residents.
Texas Gas Service rate hearing at Council this Thursday - Austin MonitorThe City Council is holding a public hearing on a proposed rate increase by Texas Gas Service that could significantly impact residential customers.
Consumer group believes more must be done after recalls are issued to keep kids safeOnly 22% of recalled children's products are successfully removed from homes, posing safety risks to children.Increased transparency and consumer outreach are critical in addressing recall effectiveness.
Amazon and Walmart still selling older dressers at risk of tipping over, Consumer Reports findsRetailers like Amazon and Walmart still sell older dressers at risk of tipping over despite new safety standards implemented for children's safety.
Consumer group believes more must be done after recalls are issued to keep kids safeMost recalled children's products remain in homes, posing safety risks.Only 22% of recalled products are returned or destroyed.Nonprofits are calling for increased accountability from companies on recalls.
Consumer group believes more must be done after recalls are issued to keep kids safeOnly 22% of recalled children's products are successfully removed from homes, posing safety risks to children.Increased transparency and consumer outreach are critical in addressing recall effectiveness.
Amazon and Walmart still selling older dressers at risk of tipping over, Consumer Reports findsRetailers like Amazon and Walmart still sell older dressers at risk of tipping over despite new safety standards implemented for children's safety.
Consumer group believes more must be done after recalls are issued to keep kids safeMost recalled children's products remain in homes, posing safety risks.Only 22% of recalled products are returned or destroyed.Nonprofits are calling for increased accountability from companies on recalls.
Martin Lewis pens open letter to Ed Miliband claiming 'too many smart meters don't work'Smart meters' rollout faces criticism due to high malfunction rates, with Lewis urging focus on fixing existing meters rather than installing new ones.
Letters: Protection from PG&E | Media's rolePG&E's rate increases are burdening consumers, with many feeling neglected by elected officials in addressing this issue.
Homeowners join consumer advocates in assailing California insurance reformsProposed reforms by Insurance Commissioner Lara are criticized for potentially undermining Proposition 103's protections against high insurance rates in California.
Opaque and complicated' card surcharges are costing Australians billions. Is an overhaul needed?Debit cards are not necessarily cheaper than credit cards due to hidden fees, which has led to rising costs for consumers and merchants.
Martin Lewis slams councils for acting like worst loan sharks' over tax collectionCouncil tax collection practices are critiqued as excessively aggressive and damaging, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
'Paper or plastic?' will no longer be a choice at California grocery storesCalifornia lawmakers have passed legislation to eliminate plastic bags in grocery stores, aiming to significantly reduce plastic waste.
California Bill Would Require State Review of Private Equity Deals in Health Care | KQEDCalifornia legislation seeks to enhance oversight of private equity in healthcare amid concerns about its impact on costs and care quality.
'Paper or plastic?' will no longer be a choice at California grocery storesCalifornia lawmakers have passed legislation to eliminate plastic bags in grocery stores, aiming to significantly reduce plastic waste.
California Bill Would Require State Review of Private Equity Deals in Health Care | KQEDCalifornia legislation seeks to enhance oversight of private equity in healthcare amid concerns about its impact on costs and care quality.
Kroger's Nearly $25 Billion Merger Is Bad for Shoppers, F.T.C. SaysThe trial on Kroger and Albertsons' merger raises concerns over reduced competition and higher prices for consumers.
The Right to Repair Movement Explained by Gay Gordon-ByrneThe Right to Repair movement advocates for better repair access and legislation to empower consumers against manufacturer monopolies.
Buying a house just got more complicated. Here's what you should (and shouldn't) do when working with a brokerA new NAR settlement complicates home buying, requiring buyers to sign contracts before showings.
Opinion: Anticompetitive price fixing in real estate commissions is not the answer to fair and accessible homeownershipCFA advocates for uncoupled real estate commissions to enhance price competition, countering realtor industry practices that inflate costs for consumers.
Buying a house just got more complicated. Here's what you should (and shouldn't) do when working with a brokerA new NAR settlement complicates home buying, requiring buyers to sign contracts before showings.
Opinion: Anticompetitive price fixing in real estate commissions is not the answer to fair and accessible homeownershipCFA advocates for uncoupled real estate commissions to enhance price competition, countering realtor industry practices that inflate costs for consumers.
Manhattan residents upset over gas rate differencesCon Edison may be overcharging NYC residents for gas services compared to National Grid, raising concerns and frustrations among consumers.
California bill to scrutinize new electric charge dies in Assembly committeeAssembly Appropriations Committee stopped bill AB 1999 requiring review of new electric charge.Controversy around new $24.15 electric charge for encouraging electric car adoption and reducing fossil fuel use in California.
Regulators approve sweeping change to the way most Californians are billed for electricityCalifornia Public Utilities Commission approved new fixed monthly fee for electricity, prioritizing electric vehicle adoption over consumer concerns.
Their truck had an 'urgent' safety defect. They waited almost 2 years without a permanent fix | CBC NewsVehicle recall due to defective fuel pumpConcerns with delayed vehicle defect repairs
Telecom execs insist wireless prices going down as MPs voice concern over costs | CBC NewsCEOs of Canadian telecom companies defend pricingCommittee studying accessibility and affordability of wireless services
PUC approval of PG&E interim request sends bills higher once againMonthly bills for PG&E customers will increase by $4.68 for combined electricity and gas services.The state Public Utilities Commission approved PG&E's higher monthly bills with little debate.
State Farm seeks massive' insurance rate hike for California homeownersState Farm seeks a 30% increase in California homeowners' insurance premiums, citing losses from wildfires and weather events.