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North Carolina News You Can Use

HEALTHCARE

Facing backlash, fate of NC Republicans’ proposed ban on public masking is unclear

But during the Covid-19 pandemic, many on the right took issue with mask mandates issued by state and local governments as part of their efforts to minimize transmission of the deadly virus. At the height of the pandemic, Reopen NC was a group dedicated to opposing business and restaurant closures, and even started a ‘Burn Your Mask Challenge,’ where participants would post videos burning masks to social media.

HEALTHCARE - Cardinal & Pine
Donald Trump

Trump just pulled back a plan to regulate toxic, cancer-causing PFAS. It’s in hundreds of water systems in North Carolina.

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PFAS, or “forever chemicals," are linked to cancer, birth abnormalities, and other health ailments. But Trump is pushing back a long-awaited plan to set federal limits on them. 
Weight Loss Drugs in North Carolina

States like North Carolina consider high costs, possible savings of covering weight loss drugs for their workers

State policymakers, including leaders in North Carolina, are choosing between the long-term benefits of weight loss drugs and reducing obesity among public employees, and the short-term costs.
NC Family's Battle With Health Insurance

OPINION: My 2-year-old son is recovering from brain surgery. Health insurance says they won’t cover the therapy.

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A North Carolina family says they've been forced to make heartbreaking choices because of health insurance companies who won't pay for the care their son needs. 
HEALTHCARE - Cardinal & Pine

In his last speech as governor, Roy Cooper reflects on past and hints at future

On Wednesday, Cooper gave his final public address as governor at Nash County Community College in his hometown of Rocky Mount, where he highlighted his proudest accomplishments as governor and gave a wink and a nod to what might be ahead for him. 
Photo of a phone displaying the ACA Welcome to the Marketplace home screen.

What’s new and what to watch for in the upcoming ACA open enrollment period

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In most states, the ACA's annual open enrollment season for health plans begins Nov. 1 and lasts through Jan. 15. Here's what you need to know.
HEALTHCARE - Cardinal & Pine

She left her deteriorating marriage. Then the medical bills came.

Debbie Smith of Alamance County is one of roughly 3 million North Carolinians who suffer the burden of medical debt. She spoke with Cardinal & Pine about her story, the realities of debt, and what she hopes will be done about it.