Page 28 - Consumer Issues News Today : Breaking News, Live Updates & Top Stories | Vimarsana

After Coloradans cranked up the heat to welcome family members for Thanksgiving dinner, many are worried about the price they will pay when their utility bill arrives. Denise Stepto, chief communications officer for Energy Outreach Colorado, which helps struggling families meet their energy needs, said her team saw an especially high volume of calls for help after this season's first cold snap. She noted many are still behind on their utility bills, and do not know how they will keep their homes warm this winter. ...

What's on your holiday shopping list? This year, people may also be asking, "And where was it made?" In a new poll, 81% of Americans surveyed said they would prefer to buy American-made gifts if given the option. The preference is driven by the belief buying products "Made in America" will help the economy, create jobs and support small businesses. Bryan Spiegel, owner of Azzy's Design Works in Finleyville, said it is important to support local businesses before looking elsewhere. ...

Clean-energy advocates in Ohio and around the country say now is the time for the government to ensure the nation has the medium- and heavy-duty truck infrastructure needed to keep electric-powered trucks charged and driving across the country. Trucks transported more than 11 billion tons of freight last year, spewing air pollutants and greenhouse gases along the way. John Boesel - CEO of CALSTART, a clean-transportation nonprofit group - explained that the Environmental Protection Agency is considering rules to require commercial vehicle manufacturers to drastically curb emissions in the ...

Child care access has become a major focal point in the U.S., and South Dakota is no exception. More than two dozen communities are using grant money to come up with local solutions in hopes of expanding options for families. Earlier this week, the governor's office announced more than $1 million in funding will be shared by 28 economic development groups around the state. ...

November is National Family Caregivers Month, and many of the 200,000 Nebraskans who help care for loved ones with a health issue or disability could use help. Caregiving can take its toll. In one survey, almost three-fourths of caregivers said they were emotionally stressed, and over half reported financial strain. ...