Georgia Watch's Health Access Program submitted comments to both Emory Healthcare and WellStar Health System expressing deep concern about the potential merger. Georgia Watch voiced concern that the public comment process lacks transparency and meaningful consumer engagement, as well as the impact this merger may have on healthcare prices.  "Nationwide, hospital consolidation is leading to higher prices for consumers with little to no improvement in the quality of care individuals receive," said Beth Stephens, Georgia Watch's Health Access Program Director.  Read more>

Georgia Watch submitted formal comment on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) proposed rules for protecting consumers who use prepaid and payroll cards. "While prepaid cards are a relatively new product in the personal finance market, they are becoming increasingly popular with the unbanked population," said Elise Blasingame, Georgia Watch's Director of Community Education. Read more>