Ryan Mcferran News Today

With Thanksgiving over, the holiday shopping season has the full attention of many Americans. But in Minnesota and elsewhere, people are being asked to be responsible when buying lottery tickets as gifts. The Minnesota Lottery and the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling are again taking part in an annual campaign to discourage giving scratch-off tickets and related games to kids under 18. ...

The holiday shopping season is here, and people are being reminded about the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses, in Wisconsin and elsewhere. A recent Global State of Small Business Report, issued by social media company Meta, notes the closure rate for minority-led small firms was 7% higher than other operations. And more than half led by Black owners reported lower sales than the previous year. ...

It may seem early, but programs across the country are preparing to help people with their 2022 income tax returns. In Washington state, United Way of King County is calling for volunteers for its free tax-preparation program. Ryan McFerran, program manager of tax credits and financial stability for the organization, said they rely on hundreds of volunteers each year. ...

A bill passed by the New York State Legislature would provide ratepayers with a voice in utility rate increases. The utility intervenor bill would provide for funding to allow individuals or not-for-profit groups to have a seat at the table when utility companies go before the states Public Service Commission for a rate increase. High inflation and rising costs have been prompting rate increases across the U.S. ...