SUMMARY: North Carolina regulators have not received many complaints about insurance companies denying claims after Hurricane Helene, according to the state’s insurance commissioner spokesman, Jason Tyson. However, homeowners are discovering that damage types like flood and mudslides may not be covered by their policies. Disputes also arise over whether damage was caused by wind or flood. Tyson emphasized the lack of flood insurance among homeowners and noted that mudslide coverage is uncommon. The state insurance office offers mediation services for disputed claims at no cost to consumers. They encourage homeowners to call for assistance regarding denied claims.

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SUMMARY: A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced the End Drug Shortages Act to address prescription drug shortages that negatively impact patient care. Introduced by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Tom Cotton, alongside Representatives Abigail Spanberger and Adrian Smith, the legislation aims to enhance communication between drug manufacturers, the FDA, and pharmacies. As of September, there are 275 active drug shortages listed by the FDA. The bill will require manufacturers to notify the FDA of surges in demand and ensure that guidelines for pharmacies are updated based on current research. The legislation is supported by various health care providers and associations.

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SUMMARY: The Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office reported multiple financial deficiencies in the first quarter of fiscal 2025 across various agencies. The Louisiana Department of Health’s Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund mismanaged $855,606 in federal funds, while the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness approved over $19 million in improper reimbursements. Additionally, $2.5 million was reimbursed without documentation. Local agencies, including the city of Bogalusa, misused ARPA funds for employee bonuses totaling $468,125. Fraud also occurred in Mamou due to a business email compromise, resulting in a loss of $226,330, and Calcasieu Parish Waterworks District lost $481,439 due to misappropriation of payments.

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