Daily Edition for Thursday, July 13, 2023
Intense Heat Wave Coming To San Diego County This Weekend: The heat wave that began to grip San Diego County this week could intensify enough to push temperatures close to 120 degrees on Sunday in the local deserts, including Ocotillo Wells and Borrego Springs, according to the National Weather Service. Read more from the San Diego Union Tribune.
Got Milk in School? Farmers Fight Health Advocates Over the Creamy ‘Whole’ Variety
By Phil Galewitz
It has been over a decade since whole milk was served in schools through the National School Lunch Program, after U.S. government dietary guidance effectively banned it. But dairy farmers, some health experts, and members of Congress say it’s time to bring it back.
An Arm and a Leg: Wait, What’s a PBM?
By Dan Weissmann
Pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, are companies that negotiate the prices of prescription drugs. Hear about their role in raising drug prices and the ongoing efforts to regulate this complex industry.
Daily Edition for Wednesday, July 12, 2023
State Vows To Improve Heat Warnings: As California braces for its most intense and prolonged heat wave of the year, state officials are investing in new methods to warn residents of the dangers of soaring temperatures. On Tuesday, California launched the $20 million “Heat Ready CA” campaign to improve outreach, advertising, and communication efforts. Read more from the Los Angeles Times. Keep scrolling for more environmental health news.
Groups Sue to Overturn Idaho ‘Abortion Trafficking’ Law Targeting Teens
By Sarah Varney
It is illegal to help a minor obtain an abortion in Idaho or leave the state for one without parental consent. The lawsuit says the ban infringes on the right to interstate travel and First Amendment freedoms.
Daily Edition for Tuesday, July 11, 2023
LA Mayor Steps Up Homelessness Emergency: Nearly seven months after Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared a homelessness emergency, the mayor on Monday signed an updated emergency declaration that allows her administration to award contracts to builders, vendors, or service providers to deal with the crisis faster than before. Read more from the Los Angeles Daily News.
As Nonprofit Hospitals Reap Big Tax Breaks, States Scrutinize Their Required Charity Spending
By Andy Miller and Markian Hawryluk
Nonprofit hospitals avoid paying taxes if they provide community benefits such as charity care. More states are examining that trade-off, scrutinizing the extent of hospitals’ spending on their communities.
Daily Edition for Monday, July 10, 2023
Excessive Heat Comes To California: In addition to warning people to stay hydrated and avoid overexposure to the heat, the National Weather Service is urging Californians to “Look before you lock!” to avoid trapping children, the elderly, or pets in a hot car. Read more from the Los Angeles Times and San Francisco Chronicle.
What You Need to Know About the Drug Price Fight in Those TV Ads
By Arthur Allen
At least nine bills introduced in Congress take aim at pharmacy benefit managers, the powerful middlemen that channel prescription drugs to patients.
