The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 0.50 percentage points, the first decrease in four years, aiming to ease borrowing costs amid high inflation. The reduction indicates the Fed’s proactive approach to prevent a slowdown in the U.S. economy, as most rate cuts historically have been 0.25 percentage points. (CBS News)
Drug overdose deaths in the U.S. have decreased for the first time in years, with a 10.6% drop reported by the CDC. More substantial declines are expected, especially in states with rapid data collection. Factors such as improved fentanyl addiction treatments and expanded access to naloxone are believed to have contributed. (People)
U.S. passport holders can now renew passports online, avoiding trips to federal offices. Secretary of State Antony Blinken says quicker renewals are supporting increased travel. Assistant Secretary Rena Bitter emphasizes the convenience and efficiency of the new system, available for adult passport holders with expired or soon-to-expire 10-year passports. (UPI)
A 12-year-old boy shot and killed a bear that was attacking his father at their hunting cabin in Wisconsin. After the bear was initially wounded by the boy, it charged at the father who struggled to defend himself. The boy fired his rifle to save his father, who sustained injuries but survived. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said the hunt was legal. (AP)
The latest Cancer Progress Report reveals a 33% drop in the overall cancer death rate in the U.S. from 1991 to 2021, saving an estimated 4.1 million lives. However, alcohol remains a lesser-known risk factor for various cancers, including breast, colorectal, and liver cancer. Experts say the issue needs to be addressed alongside other lifestyle risks like smoking and obesity. (CBS News)
