Today on Georgia NOW, Georgia ranks among the states with the highest share of drivers paying more than $1,000 a month for their car loans.

Then, a school district in northwest Georgia says its four-day school week has been a success for more than 15 years, boosting morale, reducing discipline problems, and giving students and teachers more flexibility.

We'll also celebrate a historic milestone as the Okefenokee Swamp becomes Georgia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, bring you details on a swift water rescue that saved six people from the Chattahoochee River, and preview Tuesday's special election in Georgia's 13th Congressional District, where low early turnout could shape the outcome.

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A growing number of Georgia drivers are facing $1,000 monthly car payments. A new LendingTree analysis found 12% of Georgia borrowers with active auto loans now pay at least four figures each month, the fourth-highest rate in the nation. Financial experts say buyers should focus on the total cost of a vehicle, not just the monthly payment, before signing a loan.

A northwest Georgia school district says its four-day school week is delivering positive results. Tatnall County Schools reports improved teacher morale, stronger academic performance and fewer discipline issues since adopting the schedule. District leaders say the extra day also gives students more flexibility for work, medical appointments and other responsibilities, while several Georgia school systems have reached out to learn more about the model.

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As health officials investigate a multistate Cyclospora outbreak, food safety experts say greenhouse-grown produce could help reduce the risk of contamination. Unlike traditional farming, hydroponic operations keep crops away from contaminated soil, surface water and wildlife, giving growers greater control over the growing environment as investigators continue searching for the outbreak's source.

Atlanta is investing $50,000 to create more safe spaces and activities for teenagers after recent social media meetups raised safety concerns. City leaders plan to work directly with students to design pop-up events, while many teens say they simply want more affordable places to spend time with friends.

Georgia drivers are also paying more at the pump. Gas prices across the state have jumped nearly 20% in the past week as rising tensions in the Middle East push oil prices higher. Economists warn the increase could squeeze household budgets and force many families to cut back on other spending.

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Federal investigators say the 2024 BioLab fire in Conyers was caused by a combination of corroded sprinkler heads and improper chemical storage. A new U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board report found the facility stored more than twice its planned amount of pool chemicals, while widespread corrosion in the sprinkler system allowed water to react with the chemicals, triggering the fire and a toxic smoke plume. BioLab says it is reviewing the report's recommendations.

A metro Atlanta nonprofit is helping families prepare for the new school year with a dignity-first approach to free clothing. Founded in memory of Leigh Canada's adopted daughter, Imani's Closet has grown from a garage-based effort into a mobile boutique serving foster families and others experiencing financial hardship, giving parents and children the opportunity to shop for clothing in a supportive environment.

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A proposed data center campus in South Georgia is drawing growing opposition, even though no formal application has been filed. Last year, Lowndes County approved the rezoning of more than 700 acres near Valdosta for light manufacturing. Residents have since formed a grassroots group with more than 1,200 members, raising concerns about water use, energy demand, noise and the potential for sinkholes while calling for greater transparency and stronger local regulations.

Georgia drivers are paying more at the pump as tensions in the Middle East push oil prices higher. Gas prices across the state have climbed nearly 20% over the past week, with economists warning the increase could force families to cut back on other spending, particularly in metro Atlanta where many residents rely on their vehicles every day.

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Georgia is moving forward with its first state psychiatric hospital in more than 50 years. State leaders approved $409 million to build a 300-bed forensic hospital in DeKalb County, aiming to reduce a backlog of more than 700 people in the criminal justice system waiting for psychiatric treatment. Supporters say the facility will ease pressure on overcrowded jails, while mental health advocates stress the need for continued investment in community-based care.

July is Postpartum Changes Awareness Month, bringing attention to the mental health challenges many new mothers face. Emory University School of Medicine says postpartum depression affects about one in seven women. One Atlanta mother has turned her own experience with postpartum anxiety into a mission to support other families through postpartum doula services, while Emory's Peace for Moms program continues to connect providers with prenatal mental health specialists.

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Artificial intelligence is driving a new wave of scams targeting Georgians. According to the FBI's 2025 Internet Crime Report, Georgia residents lost more than $10.4 million to AI-enabled scams last year, while nationwide losses approached $893 million. Officials say scammers are increasingly using voice cloning, deepfakes and fake identities to make emergency calls, investment schemes and "grandparent scams" appear more believable. Experts urge people to verify unexpected requests before sending money.

Nearly two months after 25-year-old Malik Polk disappeared, the Carroll County Sheriff's Office says the investigation remains active. Deputies have searched more than 300 acres, nearly 20 miles of the Chattahoochee River and continue reviewing digital evidence. Investigators say they do not suspect foul play, while Polk's family says they remain focused on finding answers.

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A new Georgia State University study found that more than half of Atlanta's publicly available restrooms aren't actually accessible to the public. Researchers surveyed 262 restrooms and found 55% were limited to customers or otherwise restricted. Experts say the lack of restroom access can create serious public health concerns, particularly for people experiencing homelessness. Atlanta officials say 10 new solar-powered public restrooms have been installed to improve access.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is doing more than filling stadiums in Atlanta—it's also bringing people together. Tinder reports a 47% increase in swiping by international users in World Cup host cities and a 22% increase among domestic users. DatingAdvice.com also ranked Atlanta as the nation's second most romantic World Cup city, with dating experts saying the tournament is creating more opportunities for meaningful, in-person connections.

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A new Georgia State University study found that more than half of Atlanta's publicly available restrooms aren't actually accessible to the public. Researchers surveyed 262 restrooms and found 55% were limited to customers or otherwise restricted. Experts say the lack of restroom access can create serious public health concerns, particularly for people experiencing homelessness. Atlanta officials say 10 new solar-powered public restrooms have been installed to improve access.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is doing more than filling stadiums in Atlanta—it's also bringing people together. Tinder reports a 47% increase in swiping by international users in World Cup host cities and a 22% increase among domestic users. DatingAdvice.com also ranked Atlanta as the nation's second most romantic World Cup city, with dating experts saying the tournament is creating more opportunities for meaningful, in-person connections.

For news anytime, visit HearGeorgiaNow.com.

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The CDC is investigating a nationwide increase in Cyclospora infections after more than 840 cases were reported across 31 states, including more than a dozen in Georgia. Doctors say severe diarrhea and dehydration are the most common symptoms, with some patients experiencing dozens of episodes a day. Health experts urge anyone with persistent diarrhea to ask specifically to be tested for Cyclospora, as it is not included in routine lab work.

At Trees Atlanta's Junior TreeKeeper Camp, children are exploring Atlanta's urban forest through hands-on environmental education and BeltLine adventures. Camp leaders say the program helps the next generation understand the importance of protecting local ecosystems, while campers are learning simple ways to support wildlife and care for the environment.

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