MA: Consumer
MA seniors encouraged to take advantage of dual-use special needs plans
Health care advocates in Massachusetts said special health care plans are available for seniors and people with disabilities to help ensure they get t…
New England anglers seek greater protections for Atlantic herring stock
Recreational fishermen in New England say commercial trawlers are threatening the survival of smaller businesses relying on a healthy stock of Atlanti…
MA diaper distribution program helps families make ends meet
Supporters of a federal pilot program to distribute diapers to low-income families in Massachusetts hope to build upon its success. More than 1 …
MA families in limbo as college financial-aid awards delayed
Families in Massachusetts will have to wait even longer for financial aid offers from colleges and universities this year because of an error in the F…
Stalled Farm Bill puts pressure on MA food banks
Massachusetts food banks are struggling to keep up with demand as the Farm Bill remains stalled in Congress. The bill is renegotiated every five …
Vaccination rates decline as health misinformation spreads online
Public health experts say the rapid spread of health misinformation online is contributing to a dangerous decline in vaccination rates. Surveys …
FTC, states propose new rules to target 'junk fees'
Federal and state regulators are cracking down on so-called "junk fees," which companies often use to hike prices on consumer products above what is a…
Legislation aims to classify book bans as federal civil rights violations
New federal legislation would classify discriminatory book bans as violations of federal civil rights law. The Books Save Lives Act would ensure …
MA family child care providers ease shortage, seek greater state backing
Advocates in Massachusetts say increasing the pay of smaller, family child care providers could help ease the shortage and provide economic benefits …
Student loan payment restart riddled with errors for MA borrowers
A new report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau found the repayment process for federal student loans has been filled with errors…
Consumer watchdog: ‘Smart toys” put kids' privacy at risk
With the holiday shopping season underway, a consumer watchdog report is warning parents about the privacy risks associated with so-called 'smart …
Home heating aid program in MA keeps families safe, warm
Winter is coming, and the annual statewide campaign to inform Massachusetts residents about available heating assistance is underway. Advocates for …