Consumer Affairs
Those Roman candles from Indiana? You could pay twice as much this year due to Trump administration tariffs on goods from China.
The program says its blue seal of approval on appliances saves households an average of $450 a year on their utility bills. But the EPA plans a reorganization that would eliminate its Energy Star offices.
The move comes nearly two months after U.S. health officials said they would urge foodmakers to phase out petroleum-based artificial colors in the nation’s food supply.
Electricity costs are climbing due to increased power demand across the country, largely related to data centers and artificial intelligence.
WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times are gathering your questions about all things money, and this week an Edgewater resident wants to know how to pick a financial adviser.
State lawmakers said they again will consider the issue later this year. Meanwhile, Cook County will postpone its 2025 tax sale because of concerns over homeowners behind on property taxes losing their homes and equity.
The Instagram and Facebook parent has a 20-year agreement with Constellation Energy to buy electricity from its operation in downstate Clinton.
Business groups said the bill aimed at addressing rising power needs by adding wind and solar and battery storage would cost electricity customers at least $7 billion.
As electricity costs climb, legislators push a plan to speed up solar and wind projects, end a moratorium on new nuclear plants and promote energy efficiency.
Illinois saw the second-highest jump in home insurance premiums in the nation, partly fueled by claims after extreme weather events.
Electric bills are about to jump by an average of $10.60 a month due to increased power demand across the country. A consumer organization also blames the electric grid operator.
They say the agency helped them advocate to protect other families after their children died in safety accidents.
CEO Doug McMillon said price increases on the shelves will feel more gradual, but they had already begun as early as April, and they accelerated in May.
Shoes coming from Vietnam already had a 20% duty. So President Donald Trump’s threat of a 46% increase would see consumers having to spend well over $200 for what’s now a $150 pair of shoes.
