Obesity Rates in U.S. Counties

The South has many counties with high rates of adult obesity, fueling serious health issues and higher healthcare costs. U.S. News Healthiest Communities analysis ranks counties based on obesity rates among other metrics.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's Executive Order on Healthcare Costs for Undocumented Immigrants

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed an executive order requiring hospitals to ask about patients' immigration status and track healthcare costs for undocumented immigrants. Patients will not be refused care based on immigration status. Abbott aims to recoup costs from the federal government. Biden's open border policies have led to a surge in illegal crossings.

Impact of Healthcare Costs for Undocumented Immigrants in Florida

Florida passed a law requiring hospitals to disclose costs of unpaid care for migrants, showing a $566 million loss in 2024. Gov. DeSantis signed a bill in 2023 to track costs of care for illegal aliens. Hospitals are facing significant financial burdens due to providing care for undocumented individuals.