1 in 4 Americans breathes bad air today — and it's getting worse
Air quality is worsening across much of the U.S., exposing millions of people to health problems and threatening the U.S. economy.
Environmental Protection Agency
Revisiting the Ohio train derailment
One year ago, a Norfolk Southern freight train carrying hazardous materials derailed near East Palestine, Ohio, forcing hundreds to evacuate. At the time, local officials allowed the rail operator to conduct a "controlled release" of toxic chemicals into the air from five derailed tanker cars that were in danger of exploding. In a new CBS Reports documentary, CBS News' Roxana Saberi talks to a former Environmental Protection Agency official who is critical of that decision.
EPA proposes rule to replace lead water pipes in U.S. within 10 years
The agency said tighter standards would improve IQ scores in children and reduce high blood pressure and heart disease in adults.
EPA may change recycling symbol for plastics
The EPA is poised to change the iconic "chasing arrows" recycling symbol for plastics, citing confusion around its meaning since many plastics cannot easily be recycled. CBS News environmental correspondent David Schechter reports.
Study: "Forever chemicals" in U.S. tap water
A new study found that nearly half of the nation's drinking water contains potentially harmful "forever chemicals," called PFAS. The substances have been linked to several serious health problems, including some cancers. Mark Strassmann reports on efforts to eliminate the chemicals, plus the study's lead author, Kelly Smalling, joins CBS News to break down the findings.
PFAS "forever chemicals" found in drinking water from 45% of U.S. faucets
The U.S. Geological Survey tested tap water from 716 locations nationwide over five years.
New Florida law allows roads made of toxic mining waste
Phosphogypsum is a material known by the EPA to contain a "potentially cancer-causing, radioactive gas," that's the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S.
How Canadian wildfire smoke could impact summer plans for Americans
Forecasters and heath officials have warned that U.S. air quality may plummet repeatedly in the coming months, as Canada's wildfire season continues.
Court rules against EPA on Clean Water Act
The Supreme Court has ruled in favor of a family whose push to build a new house on wetlands was challenged under the EPA's Clean Water Act, weakening a water pollution law. CBS News legal contributor Jessica Levinson has more on the impact of the ruling.
"Radioactive" roads could be headed to Florida
The EPA has long banned the use of phosphogypsum, the waste left behind from mining phosphate rock., saying it contains "radioactive material."
Impact of new power plant regulations
The Biden administration and EPA have announced new regulations to limit carbon dioxide emissions from power plants. CBS News senior national and environmental correspondent Ben Tracy joined us to discuss how stringent the new rules would be and the potential challenges the plan faces.
Biden to host second debt ceiling meeting
President Biden will host his second debt ceiling meeting with Congressional leaders Friday, after Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned of serious economic consequences if the U.S. defaults on its debt. CBS News senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe joins us to discuss that plus a new Biden administration proposal to reduce power plant emissions.
4 ways climate change will affect children, experts say
A new report from the Environmental Protection Agency shows the ways children are especially vulnerable to climate change — and those effects could last a lifetime, experts say.
EPA proposes ban on chemical linked to potentially fatal health risks
The chemical can cause adverse health effects including neurotoxicity, liver effects and cancer from inhalation and skin exposure.
EPA proposal seeks to increase EV production
The Biden administration on Wednesday proposed strict new tailpipe pollution standards that would effectively force auto manufacturers to accelerate their production of electric vehicles. Under the EPA's proposal, 67% of all vehicles manufactured in the U.S. would be electric by 2032. Ben Tracy has the details.
Toxic industrial fire still burning in Indiana
A fire that broke out Tuesday at a former factory that was storing plastic material in Richmond, Indiana, was still burning Wednesday. The large fire forced the evacuation of more than 1,000 nearby residents. The EPA is investigating whether any of the burning items contained asbestos or other carcinogenic materials. Max Lewis has more.
More than 9 million lead pipes supplying water in U.S., EPA finds
There are no levels of exposure considered safe from health effects.
Justice Department sues Norfolk Southern over toxic train derailment
The civil complaint follows a lawsuit filed by the state of Ohio.
EPA head talks aging water infrastructure
The Biden administration in 2021 set aside $50 billion for improvements to water and wastewater infrastructure. EPA Administrator Michael Regan tells CBS News' Tom Hanson that "We have to be better positioned to deal with our obligation to provide quality, affordable drinking water to everyone in this country."
EPA proposes first national limits on "forever chemicals" in drinking water
The planned regulation would establish legally enforceable levels for six PFAS known to occur in drinking water.
West Virginia train derailment leaks diesel, oil into protected river
The portion of the New River impacted by the train derailment is part of a national park, and is believed to be older than the Appalachians.
EPA officials face outraged Ohio residents
Residents of East Palestine, Ohio, expressed their frustrations during a public meeting with EPA officials regarding the federal response to the toxic train derailment. CBS News' Lana Zak joins John Dickerson on "Prime Time" to discuss.
EPA meeting with residents on train derailment
Officials from the Environmental Protection Agency ordered the railroad company Norfolk Southern to attend a public meeting today in East Palestine, Ohio, almost one month after the fiery train derailment there. CBS News correspondent Lana Zak joins us from East Palestine to discuss the upcoming meeting and more.
Norfolk Southern to face East Palestine residents
Norfolk Southern, the company that owns the train involved in a massive derailment last month, is expected to join the EPA for a public meeting in East Palestine, Ohio, tonight. CBS New correspondent Lana Zak joined Vladimir Duthiers and Anne-Marie Green to discuss the latest.
EPA overseeing waste removal from derailed train
The Environmental Protection Agency is now overseeing the cleanup of toxic waste following the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. Truckloads of waste have already been transported to specialized disposal facilities in Michigan and Texas, officials said.
Two women told House ethics panel Gaetz sent Venmo payments "for sex," their attorney says
Two women testified before the House Ethics Committee that Matt Gaetz paid them "for sex," their lawyer told CBS News' Major Garrett.
Judge strikes down Wyoming abortion laws
A judge has struck down Wyoming's overall ban on abortion and its first-in-the nation explicit prohibition on the use of medication to end pregnancy.
"Everything as it was": Explore the bedrooms of kids killed in school shootings
The families of eight school shooting victims opened their doors to Steve Hartman and photographer Lou Bopp, allowing them to document their children's bedrooms.
Why some Ohio school districts are arming teachers and staff with firearms
Over the last year, the number of school districts in Ohio that allow staff to be armed quadrupled, with 14% of the state's districts now participating.
"One Tree Hill" actor Paul Teal dies at 35 after cancer battle
Paul Teal's fiancée and fellow "One Tree Hill" actors shared tribute posts memorializing him.
What does and doesn't kill E. coli? What to know amid multiple outbreaks
E. coli outbreaks in food are making headlines, prompting questions about how to stay safe from the bacteria that can cause sickness.
California governor defers Menendez clemency decision to incoming L.A. DA
California Gov. Gavin Newsom decided to defer the Menendez brothers' clemency decision to incoming District Attorney Nathan Hochman.
Cyberattack leaves Massachusetts Stop & Shop shelves empty 10 days before Thanksgiving
Stop & Shop stores across Massachusetts had empty shelves on Monday due to a cyberattack.
Famed ballet dancer dies in fall from balcony in Russia
Ballet dancer Vladimir Shklyarov fell from a fifth-floor balcony after taking painkillers ahead of back surgery, Russian media reported.
U.S.
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Judge strikes down Wyoming abortion laws
A judge has struck down Wyoming's overall ban on abortion and its first-in-the nation explicit prohibition on the use of medication to end pregnancy.
Newsom to allow District Attorney-elect Nathan Hochman to lead Menendez
California Gov. Gavin Newsom decided to defer the Menendez brothers' clemency decision to incoming District Attorney Nathan Hochman.
Why some Ohio school districts are arming teachers and staff with firearms
Over the last year, the number of school districts in Ohio that allow staff to be armed quadrupled, with 14% of the state's districts now participating.
"One Tree Hill" actor Paul Teal dies at 35 after cancer battle
Paul Teal's fiancée and fellow "One Tree Hill" actors shared tribute posts memorializing him.
What does Spirit Airlines' bankruptcy mean for you?
Spirit's bankruptcy filing will likely mean higher airfares across airlines as it trims schedule, according to experts.
MoneyWatch
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TNT's "Inside the NBA" will air on ESPN, ABC, as part of NBA settlement
"Inside the NBA" will continue on other networks, even though will no longer be airing on TNT at the end of this season.
Cyberattack leaves Stop & Shop shelves empty 10 days before Thanksgiving
Stop & Shop stores across Massachusetts had empty shelves on Monday due to a cyberattack.
What does Spirit Airlines' bankruptcy mean for you?
Spirit's bankruptcy filing will likely mean higher airfares across airlines as it trims schedule, according to experts.
Dental company stocks jump amid RFK Jr.'s health claims about fluoride
Robert F. Kennedy's Jr. push to remove fluoride from the nation's public water supply could benefit some companies. Here's why.
Bed maker waited to report defect that killed 1 and injured others
Canada's Bestar recalled wall beds only after learning of dozens of cases in which its beds detached from the walls, feds say.
Politics
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Trump picks Sean Duffy, TV host and former lawmaker, for transportation
President-elect Donald Trump says former Wisconsin Rep. Sean Duffy is his choice for transportation secretary as he continues to roll out picks for his Cabinet.
Dental company stocks jump amid RFK Jr.'s health claims about fluoride
Robert F. Kennedy's Jr. push to remove fluoride from the nation's public water supply could benefit some companies. Here's why.
House Ethics Committee to meet Wednesday amid growing pressure to release Gaetz report
President-elect Donald Trump announced he selected former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz to serve as attorney general.
Two women told House ethics panel Gaetz sent Venmo payments "for sex," attorney says
Two women testified before the House Ethics Committee that Matt Gaetz paid them "for sex," their lawyer told CBS News' Major Garrett.
How RFK Jr. could impact vaccines as Trump's HHS secretary
Kennedy insists he is not "anti-vaccine," but he has a long record of false and misleading statements about their safety and benefits. What could he do as Trump's HHS secretary?
HealthWatch
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Dental company stocks jump amid RFK Jr.'s health claims about fluoride
Robert F. Kennedy's Jr. push to remove fluoride from the nation's public water supply could benefit some companies. Here's why.
How RFK Jr. could impact vaccines as Trump's HHS secretary
Kennedy insists he is not "anti-vaccine," but he has a long record of false and misleading statements about their safety and benefits. What could he do as Trump's HHS secretary?
Bed maker waited to report defect that killed 1 and injured others
Canada's Bestar recalled wall beds only after learning of dozens of cases in which its beds detached from the walls, feds say.
What does and doesn't kill E. coli? What to know amid multiple outbreaks
E. coli outbreaks in food are making headlines, prompting questions about how to stay safe from the bacteria that can cause sickness.
Combating Parkinson's with rock climbing
There is currently no cure for Parkinson's Disease. But some with Parkinson's are finding that an unusual therapy – rock climbing – is helping them improve their balance, mobility, strength and cognition.
World
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Famed ballet dancer dies in fall from balcony in Russia
Ballet dancer Vladimir Shklyarov fell from a fifth-floor balcony after taking painkillers ahead of back surgery, Russian media reported.
India's "severe plus" air pollution forces more dramatic safety measures
Air pollution chokes New Delhi every winter, but this year's smog has already derailed everything from transport and road work to schools.
Family of U.S. activist killed in West Bank still demanding answers
The sister of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, an American activist killed in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, says her idealistic vision of the U.S. has been shattered.
Russia warns of world war after Biden's decision on missiles for Ukraine
A Russian lawmaker calls President Biden's decision to let Ukraine fire U.S. missiles deep into Russia a "very big step toward the beginning" of a third world war.
Hologram used in bid to solve sex worker's cold case murder
Bernadett "Betty" Szabo, 19, was stabbed multiple times just months after giving birth to a baby boy.
Entertainment
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"One Tree Hill" actor Paul Teal dies at 35 after cancer battle
Paul Teal's fiancée and fellow "One Tree Hill" actors shared tribute posts memorializing him.
TNT's "Inside the NBA" will air on ESPN, ABC, as part of NBA settlement
"Inside the NBA" will continue on other networks, even though will no longer be airing on TNT at the end of this season.
The stars of "Gladiator II" discuss the film's legacy
The stars of Ridley Scott's "Gladiator II" discuss the film's legacy and stepping back into the world of ancient Rome.
Netflix says 60 million households watched Tyson-Paul match
The much-hyped fight pitting the 58-year-old Tyson against Paul, 27, shattered records but was marred by tech glitches.
"Gladiator II" cast on new film
Ridley Scott's latest masterpiece revisits the world of ancient Rome with new characters and intense drama. The cast of "Gladiator II" talks to Nate Burleson on working with Scott and carrying forward the spirit of the iconic original.
Technology
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Technology
How this new car runs without gas or electricity
As climate change intensifies, the race for a more eco-friendly car has revved up. Itay Hod reports on the newest twist on travel.
"Human … Please die": Chatbot responds with threatening message
In an online conversation about aging adults, Google's Gemini AI chatbot responded with a threatening message, telling the user to "please die."
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Meta facing courtroom battle
On Wednesday, a judge allowed a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit to move forward that accuses Meta of creating an illegal monopoly with Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady explains.
The Guardian to stop posting on X, calling it "a toxic media platform"
The Guardian says benefits of being on Elon Musk's social media platform X are outweighed by its "often disturbing content."
Science
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Science
Long-term effects of Trump plans for oil, gas
President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to "drill, baby, drill" on Day 1 in office. CBS News national environmental correspondent David Schechter joins to take a closer look at the environmental impact of some of Trump's potential energy and climate policies.
How climate change impacts the economy
2024 is on pace to be the hottest year on record worldwide. CBS News Los Angeles meteorologist and climatologist Marina Jurica reports that extreme weather events cost the global economy over $2 trillion in the last 10 years.
Scientists say biggest coral in the world discovered in the Pacific
Scientists say they've discovered a "mega coral" three times bigger than the previous record holder - so huge they initially thought it was a shipwreck.
Surfboards with lights could deter shark attacks: "Invisibility cloak"
Seal-shaped boards decked with bright horizontal lights were less likely to be attacked by great white sharks, researchers found.
Trump officials likely to reverse drilling waste "methane fee" EPA is imposing
Oil and natural gas companies will have to pay a federal fee if they emit methane above certain levels under a rule being finalized by the Biden administration that incoming Trump officials are likely to reverse.
Crime
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Newsom to allow District Attorney-elect Nathan Hochman to lead Menendez
California Gov. Gavin Newsom decided to defer the Menendez brothers' clemency decision to incoming District Attorney Nathan Hochman.
New evidence in Laken Riley murder trial
CBS News has learned the case against the man accused of killing a University of Georgia nursing student could be in the hands of the judge as early as Tuesday. Jose Ibarra, an undocumented immigrant from Venezuela, has pleaded not guilty to killing 22-year-old Laken Riley while she was jogging on campus in February. CBS News national correspondent Manuel Bojorquez has the latest from Athens, Georgia.
Shootings near New Orleans parade route
Officials say 13 people were shot during two incidents along a New Orleans "second line" parade route. CBS News' Kati Weis breaks down what's known.
More on Laken Riley murder trial defense
Jose Ibarra's trial for the murder of Laken Riley, a student at Georgia's Augusta University College of Nursing, continues as Ibarra's family members are expected to testify on his behalf. CBS News contributor Caroline Polisi breaks down the latest in the case.
New Orleans parade shootings: What we know
Two people were killed in two separate shootings along a New Orleans parade route Sunday night. No arrests have been made so far. CBS News national reporter Kati Weis has more.
Space
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Far side of the moon once had erupting volcanoes, lunar soil shows
Researchers analyzed lunar soil brought back by China's Chang'e-6, the first spacecraft to return with a haul of rocks and dirt from the little-explored far side.
When you can see the Beaver Moon, 2024's final supermoon
November's full moon, known as the Beaver Moon, is the last supermoon of 2024. Here's when it peaks and why it's called the Beaver Moon.
Astronauts decline to answer questions about post-flight medical issue
Medical issues aside, the astronauts described a water leak in June that triggered a blizzard in the International Space Station's airlock.
Cargo ship brings science gear, holiday treats to space station crew
With an Election Day docking, the cargo ship delivered 3 tons of supplies and equipment, including an unusual wooden satellite.
The Taurid meteor showers will peak a week apart in November
Two sister meteor showers are already flashing across night skies — and will peak a week apart.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Serial killer Rodney Alcala's secret photos
See some of convicted serial killer Rodney Alcala's photographs that were discovered by detectives in a Seattle storage locker.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case
A look at the evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case; plus, newly revealed letters from the man police say wanted to be like fictional serial killer Dexter Morgan.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Long-term effects of Trump plans for oil, gas
President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to "drill, baby, drill" on Day 1 in office. CBS News national environmental correspondent David Schechter joins to take a closer look at the environmental impact of some of Trump's potential energy and climate policies.
Israel, Hezbollah inch toward cease-fire deal
There are signs of progress on at least one front of the conflict in the Middle East. CBS News senior foreign correspondent Elizabeth Palmer has the latest on reports of a cease-fire deal between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Assessing potential impact of Trump's tariffs
Americans are bracing for President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariff hikes on imported goods. CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady looks at the potential economic impact. Then, small business owner Andy Gossett joins to discuss what the tariffs would mean for his outdoor sporting goods company.
Ethics panel to meet amid Gaetz report push
At least two of President-elect Donald Trump's Cabinet picks are involved in controversy. Now there are questions about whether Matt Gaetz and Pete Hegseth have the support to get confirmed for their intended roles. CBS News congressional correspondent Nikole Killion has new reporting.
What Spirit Airlines bankruptcy means for you
Spirit Airlines is filing for bankruptcy ahead of the busy holiday travel season. The budget airline has faced multiple setbacks recently, including rising labor costs and a failed merger with JetBlue. CBS News senior transportation correspondent Kris Van Cleave has more on what this means for travelers.