Unforgiven
The Transformation of Consumer Debt
The way lenders and collectors pursue consumer debt has undergone an aggressive transformation in America. Collectors today don’t give up easy, often pursuing debts for years. For many people, these changes have profoundly affected their lives.
In Nebraska, New Bill Proposes Protections Against Rampant Debt Collection
Bill seeks to block collectors from cleaning out debtors’ bank accounts over medical debts of a few hundred dollars.
In Major Settlement, States Gang Up to Strike Deal with Soldier-Suing Company
The Virginia-based company was the focus of a 2014 ProPublica investigation of its lending and collection practices.
Company That Sued Soldiers Settles Colorado Lawsuit
The Virginia-based company was the focus of a 2014 ProPublica investigation of its lending and collection practices.
Nonprofit Hospital Stops Suing So Many Poor Patients: Will Others Follow?
A story by ProPublica and NPR and a Senate investigation prompt a Missouri nonprofit hospital to change its policies and forgive thousands of patients’ debts. But without similar scrutiny, it’s unclear if other hospitals that sue the poor will change.
To Address Race Gap, Missouri AG Pushes Debt Collection Fixes
Citing ProPublica’s reporting, Missouri’s attorney general proposed reforms to the state court rules to address the prevalence of debt collection suits in black neighborhoods.
Company That Sued Soldiers Closes Its Stores
After a ProPublica investigation of USA Discounters’ lending practices last summer, a barrage of lawsuits, regulatory inquiries and changes to Defense Department policies followed.
Senator to Hospitals: Stop Suing Poor Patients
Prompted by an investigation by ProPublica and NPR, Sen. Charles Grassley asks a Missouri nonprofit hospital to explain why it seizes the wages of thousands of its patients.
What We’re Watching
During Donald Trump’s second presidency, ProPublica will focus on the areas most in need of scrutiny. Here are some of the issues our reporters will be watching — and how to get in touch with them securely.
Learn more about our reporting team. We will continue to share our areas of interest as the news develops.
Sharon Lerner
I cover health and the environment and the agencies that govern them, including the Environmental Protection Agency.
Andy Kroll
I cover justice and the rule of law, including the Justice Department, U.S. attorneys and the courts.
Melissa Sanchez
I report on immigration and labor, and I am based in Chicago.
Jesse Coburn
I cover housing and transportation, including the companies working in those fields and the regulators overseeing them.
If you don’t have a specific tip or story in mind, we could still use your help. Sign up to be a member of our federal worker source network to stay in touch.
