Economic Turnaround? 4/20: Time to Spark Up? Stem Cell Funding; College Mental Health Crisis; United's New Policy on Obese Passengers
Economic Turnaround?
Is the economy starting to turn the corner? Analysts are predicting that while the recession will continue, it may ease in intensity by this summer. Some signs include greater stability in new home construction and a 25% increase in March auto sales compared to the month before. Today Bank of America posted stronger than expected first quarter earnings, mainly from the purchase of Merrill Lynch. But the economic forecast is not completely sunny. Bank of America set aside $6.4 billion to cover future losses, and GM is expected to lay off 1,600 workers this week. Guest host David Lazarus gets an update from Chris Thornberg of Beacon Economics.
4/20: Time to Spark Up?
April 20 may be the common celebration day for marijuana advocates, but this year many supporters are citing increased popular acceptance of the drug for medicinal or recreational use. With national polls showing increased support for marijuana legislation, the issue may be getting greater attention soon. David Lazarus discusses the progress of the marijuana cause.
Stem Cell Funding
The Obama administration Friday said that it would ease financing restrictions on human embryonic stem cell research, a position that replaces the more stringent restrictions of Bush administration. In March, he gave authority to the National Institutes of Health to decide how and whether to fund human embryonic stem cell research. Scientists say that the number of stem cell lines eligible for federal funding will greatly increase in a short period of time, but scientists will not be allowed to create human embryos for cloning or research purposes.
College Mental Health Crisis
Did you know that almost half of all college students will become seriously depressed during their college career, and that one in 10 undergraduates will seriously consider suicide? Why are so many college students experiencing mental health problems? AirTalk host David Lazarus talks with Harvard University's Chief of Mental Health Services, Dr. Richard Kadison.
United's New Policy on Obese Passengers
United Airlines announced this week that it would charge overweight passengers for two seats when they travel in coach. David Lazarus talks with listeners about the new policy.