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Thursday, September 19, 2024

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Post-presidential debate poll shows a shift in WI; Teamsters won't endorse in presidential race after releasing internal polling showing most members support Trump; IL energy jobs growth is strong but lacks female workers; Pregnant, Black Coloradans twice as likely to die than the overall population.

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The Teamsters choose not to endorse a presidential candidate, county officials in Texas fight back against state moves to limit voter registration efforts, and the FBI investigate suspicious packages sent to elections offices in at least 17 states.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

MN: Consumer

AARP says between 3 million and 4 million Medicare enrollees nationwide are estimated to benefit from the new out-of-pocket federal cap every year between 2025 and 2029. Of the total, 40,050 are in Minnesota. (Adobe Stock)
Picture becomes clearer on drug cost savings for older Minnesotans

Consumer advocates have long detailed how older adults struggle to manage the cost of their medications but hope is emerging in Minnesota and elsewher…

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The Postsecondary National Policy Institue says in 2020, 22% of the 18- to 24-year-old Native American population were enrolled in college compared to 40% of the overall U.S. population. (Adobe Stock)
MN's new free tuition program resets higher ed path for tribal students

Indigenous populations have long faced barriers in pursuing higher education and Minnesota's new free college tuition program could help put some of t…

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According to the U.S. Department of Justice, lower courts usually define a
MN livestock producers may take concerns to the polls

Concerns about consolidation in the meat industry could drive livestock producers to the polls. Just four companies process about 85% of American …

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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)
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 …

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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 …

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According to the Minnesota Housing Partnership, more than 640,000 households across the state are cost-burdened, meaning they pay more than they can afford for their housing. (Adobe Stock)
Report: Many Minnesotans squeezed by housing costs

Newly released data in Minnesota underscores what housing assistance groups have been preaching - it's become increasingly difficult for many people t…

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In making homes more energy efficient, Minnesotans could see new rebates released sometime next year. Officials are still piecing together the framework for these new programs, which are federally funded. (Adobe Stock)
With new home energy rebates on horizon, MN wants to emphasize equity

Minnesotans this month have a chance to share their thoughts on how the state should distribute home energy rebates. With federal incentives coming …

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Under Minnesota law, landlords are prohibited from accepting application fees when no units are available. Housing advocates say there are some examples where landlords might not break the law, but they accept fees from applicants that make it clear they don't meet the requirements. (Adobe Stock)
Pie-in-the-sky listings? Paying rental application fees for an out-of-reach unit

Data is scarce, but Minnesota housing advocates say in a tough rental environment, applicants sometimes fork over screening fees for a unit they …

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Minnesota officials say a new roofing standard, created by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, has shown to reduce the costs of hail and wind-related damages by up to 60%. The standard is now being used for home resiliency programs. (Adobe Stock)
Roof repair grants could keep MN insurance claims from spiraling out of control

Minnesota is part of a patchwork of states trying to reimagine storm preparedness, by making roofs on homes stronger - before winds and hail fueled …

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According to the U.S. Department of energy, e-bikes topped the 1 million mark in sales in 2022, almost four times the total from 2019. (Adobe Stock)
Can e-bikes become a carbon reduction force?

Tomorrow Minnesota will reopen online applications for electric bike rebates. Environmental advocates are closely watching consumer demand for …

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If you are displaced by a natural disaster such as a flood, consumer watchdogs say you should keep all your receipts, including for food and temporary lodging as your home is repaired. It can help recoup expenses when going through necessary insurance claims and other forms of assistance. (Adobe Stock)
Watchdog hopes MN flood victims keep shady contractors at bay

Communities across Minnesota, especially in its southern half, have been responding to flood emergencies, and consumer protection groups are urging …

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Advocates are concerned that large corporate
MN farmers push for more protection from corporate agriculture in Farm Bill

With a September deadline looming for Congress to finish work on renewing the Farm Bill, Minnesota family farmers are pushing for more regulations to …

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