At the stroke of midnight on New Year s Eve, Illinoisans will see more than 300 new laws take effect - with changes that impact the state s healthcare, public safety and employment sectors. The Paid Leave for All Workers Act will require most employers to provide their workers with at least 40 hours of annual paid leave. And minimum wages will increase from $13 to $14 per hour. .
Managing course schedules and studying for exams are priorities for college students. Now, a Minnesota campus wants them to think about their health a little more, underscoring outreach efforts in the region. Organizations like the American Heart Association are working with community partners in the Twin Cities to raise awareness about high blood pressure and the risk factors for conditions like heart disease. .
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month and health experts said they are concerned about the growing number of cervical cancer diagnoses nationwide. Kentucky already has the highest rate of cervical cancer in the U.S., with the state s Appalachian region having cases at twice the national rate. Rebecca Gibran, CEO of Planned Parenthood in Kentucky, said cervical cancer takes years to develop, and can be prevented easily with regular screenings for early detection and with the HPV vaccine. .
Studies show that 90% of a child s brain develops by age six - so Save the Children s home-visiting program helps families build a strong, positive, nurturing relationship with their kids. The program equips parents in rural areas with skills to support their children s early learning and development, and fosters parent-school connections. Victoria Rodriguez is the lead associate for the nonprofit s kindergarten readiness program in the Central Valley. .
Healthcare advocates in Maine say people who missed the most recent open enrollment deadline for healthcare coverage through the Affordable Care Act have another chance to sign up. Mainers have until January 16 to enroll for coverage beginning in February, and the majority of those who enroll are expected to qualify for premium subsidies to lower their monthly payments. Ann Woloson, executive director of Consumers for Affordable Healthcare, said the CoverME.gov website has helpful tools for users to compare plans. .