Rideshare union rights, social media limits and other state laws taking effect Jan. 1 Every new year, public media reporters across the country bring us some of the new state laws taking effect where they are. Here are six in 2026. Mawa Iqbal
His brother's mental illness isolated his family. Now he's helping other caregivers When it comes to serious mental illness, family caregivers are crucial partners. But often, they must fend for themselves. A new solution offers them support. Kat McGowan
Farmers are about to pay a lot more for health insurance Tariffs, inflation, and other federal policies have battered U.S. farmers' bottom lines. Now many farmers say the expiration of federal health care subsidies will make their coverage unaffordable. Sarah Boden
Flu cases are surging and rates will likely get worse, new CDC data shows Flu season is off to a rough start this year, according to new CDC data. The virus is spreading faster than in previous years and the surge is likely to get worse. Here's what you need to know. Gabrielle Emanuel
In a year of steep challenges, there were still shining moments in global health The Trump administration's deep cuts in U.S. foreign health aid had a devastating impact. Yet there were achievements of note in spite of it all. Fran Kritz
What being around death taught this hospital chaplain about life J.S. Park helps patients and their families cope with death every day as a hospital chaplain. He explains what to expect as a person is dying, and how to reckon with uncomfortable feelings about death. Malaka Gharib
Policy relief for family caregivers seems stalled out. But there are signs of change Family members carry the burden and costs of caring for America's aging population. Federal policy change is slow to come but a new movement and state actions are building momentum. Kat McGowan
Americans are selling plasma to make extra money The U.S. is one of a handful of nations that allows people to sell their plasma.
Teens are having disturbing interactions with chatbots. Here's how to lower the risks Teen use of AI chat bots is growing, and psychologists worry it's affecting their social development and mental health. Here's what parents should know to help kids use the technology safely. Rhitu Chatterjee
Death metal's brutal growl may hold clues to healing damaged voices We look at a study on how death metal singers produce their otherworldly vocals, and therapeutic applications that researchers are investigating. D. Parvaz
