Benefits of Stepping Outside for Mental Health

A survey of 2,000 Americans found that stepping outside helps reduce stress and anxiety, with activities like breathing fresh air and going for a walk being helpful. Many prioritize outdoor space in their homes for mental health benefits, but struggle to make time for it.

New Rule for Asylum-Seekers in Germany

Germany implements new rule requiring asylum-seekers to receive benefits on a card for use at local shops and services, limiting cash withdrawals to prevent sending money abroad. Critics argue it is discriminatory and may ostracize migrants further. Far-right party exploits anti-migration sentiment. Asylum-seekers from Moldova and Georgia can be quickly rejected. Some migrants struggle with the transition to cashless payments.

Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits Expansion for Vets with Other-Than-Honorable Discharges

The Department of Veterans Affairs has expanded access to benefits for vets with other-than-honorable discharges, especially those discharged for homosexuality.

Department of Homeland Security pilot program for migrant ID cards

President Joe Biden's DHS is starting a pilot program to provide photo ID cards to 10,000 migrants released into the US and placed into deportation proceedings. The cards are not official federal IDs and are aimed at facilitating access to immigration-related paperwork. Republicans have raised concerns about potential misuse of these IDs for accessing benefits.

Cannes Film Festival Workers Protest

Festival workers at Cannes Film Festival in France are planning to protest due to low wages and lack of benefits, potentially disrupting the event. The protest is organized by a union representing film festival workers.

Weight-loss drugs promotion and risks

The promotion of weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic has been more about marketing than science, with potential risks outweighing benefits. The book 'Magic Pill' by Johann Hari explores the complexities of the issue, highlighting risks and benefits of the drugs, while also discussing the need for political solutions to address the root problem of ultra-processed foods.

Misinformation about Immigrants and Social Security Benefits in the U.S.

Viral posts falsely claim that 'illegal immigrants' can receive Social Security numbers and retirement benefits, spreading misinformation about immigrants in the U.S. who are not authorized to be in the country. The Social Security Administration clarifies the eligibility criteria for Social Security numbers and benefits for noncitizens, highlighting the distinctions between different programs managed by the SSA.

Oregon Unemployment System Glitch

A glitch in Oregon's unemployment system has left a family in financial distress, potentially facing the loss of their home. The state's new online platform rollout has caused delays in unemployment benefits, affecting many residents.

AOC Praises Biden's Student Loan Bailout on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez praised President Joe Biden's student loan bailout plan on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, highlighting benefits such as relieving debt and enabling travel abroad. The plan is expected to transfer billions of dollars of student debt to American taxpayers.

Marriott International partnership with MGM Resorts International

Marriott International partners with MGM Resorts International to offer 40,000 rooms at 16 MGM resort properties under the new Marriott Bonvoy program, following the breakup between Hyatt and MGM. The partnership provides benefits for loyal members of both companies, with rewards going further. However, some members may prefer the previous Hyatt partnership for its additional benefits. The new program also includes unique experiences and gambling incentives, such as collaboration with BetMGM.

U.K. Four-Day Workweek Pilot Benefits

A U.K. four-day workweek pilot has shown lasting benefits more than one year later, with companies reporting happier workers, lower turnover, and greater efficiency. Improvements in physical and mental health, work-life balance, and general life satisfaction have been maintained over the past year.

Hollywood Crew Union Negotiations

Crew members in Hollywood are preparing for negotiations with major studios over compensation and benefits. The unions representing below-the-line workers are tense as they approach the bargaining table, still reeling from the previous year's strikes by actors and writers. Grievances from the 2021 negotiation cycle are still unresolved, creating a potentially volatile situation.