Biden-Harris DOL is Abusing Its Authority, House Education Committee Chairwoman Foxx Wants an IG Investigation
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-North Carolina, chairwoman of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, issued the following news release:
Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) is demanding the Department of Labor (DOL) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) investigate whether the Biden-Harris DOL is abusing its authority.
The letter comes after reports of DOL, under the guise of an Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) investigat more
Common Cause: Gaetz Ethics Committee Report Should Still Be Released in Wake of Nomination Withdrawal
NEW YORK, Nov. 22 -- Common Cause - New York issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
This afternoon, ex-Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his nomination to serve as U.S. Attorney General in the administration of President-elect Donald J. Trump. Common Cause had opposed Gaetz's nomination and urged the House Ethics Committee to release the report on its investigation of numerous allegations of criminal activity by the former Member who resigned days before the Committee was expected to releas more
MALS-24 Leads ESB Evaluation During Warrior Voyage 2024
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Virginia, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command issued the following news:
By Cpl. Anabelle Reedobrien, PEO Land Systems
PACIFIC OCEAN -- The Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary mobile base USS John L. Canley (ESB 6) set sail through the Pacific Ocean with the Hawaiian island chain visible on the horizon. From October 4 to 21, 2024, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS) 24, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing led exercise Warrior Voyage more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Virginia Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Trafficking Over 40 Firearms and Selling Counterfeit Pharmaceutical Pills Containing Fentanyl
NEW YORK, Nov. 22 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that JYSHUN TROWER was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Denise L. Cote to 14 years in prison for trafficking firearms and selling counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl. TROWER previously pled guilty to illegally transporting and distributing firearms and co more
NCUA Board Approves Central Liquidity Facility Budget for 2025-2026
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Nov. 22 -- The National Credit Union Administration issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
* * *
Board Action Bulletin
Briefed on Performance of Share Insurance Fund in Q3 2024
* * *
The National Credit Union Administration Board held its eighth open meeting of 2024 and approved the Central Liquidity Facility's budget for 2025-2026. The Board also received a briefing on the performance of the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund for the third quarter more
New Era for Batteries: DOE Argonne National Laboratory Leads $50M Sodium-Ion Innovation Push
ARGONNE, Illinois, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory issued the following news release:
* * *
Six national laboratories and eight universities will seek to increase the supply diversity of electric vehicle batteries and relieve supply chain concerns
* * *
A $50 million consortium will develop sodium-ion batteries that will be a more sustainable and lower-cost alternative to lithium-ion technology and begin to foster an industrial ecosystem for sodium-ion more
NTIA Releases Public Communication From Accenture LLP
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration has released the following public communication dated Nov. 4, 2024, from Accenture LLP:
* * *
Title: Attachment1_Accenture_Comment
Recipient: National Telecommunications and Information Administration, Department of Commerce
Sender: Accenture LLP
Subject: PUBLIC NTIA-2024-0002: Bolstering Data Center Growth, Resilience, and Security
* * *
Accenture is a leading global professi more
NTIA Releases Public Communication From Amazon Employees for Climate Justice
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration has released the following public communication dated Oct. 28, 2024, from Amazon Employees for Climate Justice:
* * *
To: Alan Davidson
Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
1401 Constitution Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20230
Re: Request for comment NTIA-2024-0002
* * *
We appreciate the Nat more
NTIA Releases Public Communication From CoreSite
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration has released the following public communication dated Nov. 4, 2024, from CoreSite, an American Tower Co., Denver, Colorado:
* * *
To: The Honorable Alan B. Davidson
Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
U.S. Department of Commerce
1401 Constitution Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20230
Re: Commen more
NTIA Releases Public Communication From Data Center Coalition
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration has released the following public communication dated Nov. 4, 2024, from Josh Levi, president of the Data Center Coalition, Loudoun County, Virginia.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To: Mr. Travis Hall
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
U.S. Department of Commerce
1401 Constitution Avenue NW, Room 4725
Washington, DC 20230
RE: NTIA Request For Comments on Bol more
NTIA Releases Public Communication From Frontier Institute
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration has released the following public communication dated Oct. 28, 2024, from Frontier Institute, Helena, Montana:
* * *
To: Stephanie Weiner
Chief Counsel
National Telecommunications and Information Administration
U.S. Department of Commerce
1401 Constitution Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20230
Re: Request for Comments on Bolstering Data Center Growth, Resilience, and Security Docket more
NTIA Releases Public Communication From Iridium Communications Inc.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration has released the following public communication dated Nov. 4, 2024, from Iridium Communications, McLean, Virginia.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
Washington, DC 20230
Bolstering Data Center Resiliency and Security
Docket No. NTIA-2024-0002
COMMENTS OF IRIDIUM COMMUNICATIONS INC.
* * *
Iridi more
Rep. Spanberger Issues Statement on Status of Farm Bill Negotiations, Need to Provide Virginia Farmers With Disaster Relief
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following statement on Nov. 21, 2024:
* * *
U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger -- the only Virginian on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee -- today released the following statement on the status of Farm Bill negotiations.
"The Farm Bill is already more than one year overdue. Vital programs have expired, and Virginia agriculture is feeling the pressure. Leadership cannot afford to delay any longer, especially when com more
Reps. Spanberger, Smith, Sens. Kaine, Cotton Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Address Drug Shortages
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
Today, U.S. Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) and Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation alongside U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) to help reduce the prevalence and severity of prescription drug shortages.
Drug shortages can adversely affect clinical care and patient outcomes. In the most severe cases, drug shortages can le more
SCHEV Awards $3.9 Million to Increase Internship Opportunities
RICHMOND, Virginia, Nov. 22 -- The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia issued the following news:
The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), in collaboration with the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP), will allocate over $3.9 million in grants to 20 institutions including the Virginia Community College System. These funds will support the expansion of paid internships and work-based learning opportunities for students, enhancing their career readiness more
Sens. Smith, Cotton, Kaine, and Spanberger Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral End Drug Shortages Act
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Rep. Adrian Smith, R-Nebraska, issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
Today, Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR), Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) introduced the End Drug Shortages Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help reduce the prevalence and severity of drug shortages. Drug shortages can adversely affect clinical care and patient outcomes--and in the most severe of cases, can lead to delayed care, inferior tre more
Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility Jefferson Lab: Accessing the Lesser Known Nucleon
NEWPORT NEWS, Virginia, Nov. 22 (TNSres) -- The Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility Jefferson Lab issued the following news release:
* * *
An inaugural measurement of the neutron will help physicists learn about nucleon structure and spin
* * *
Protons and neutrons-known collectively as nucleons-are the building blocks of matter, but one of these particles has received a bit more attention in certain types of nuclear physics experiments.
Until now. New results published in Physic more
Va. Gov. Youngkin Issues Executive Order Empowering, Supporting Parents to Protect Children From Addictive Social Media
RICHMOND, Virginia, Nov. 22 -- Gov. Glenn Youngkin, R-Virginia, issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
* * *
Reclaiming Childhood Task Force established to address youth mental health crisis
* * *
Governor Glenn Youngkin today issued Executive Order 43, Empowering and Supporting Parents to Protect Their Children from Addictive Social Media & Establishment of the Reclaiming Childhood Task Force, to tackle a critical aspect of Virginia's youth mental health crisis, the unrestrict more
Va. U.S. Attorney: Former Acting Director of Lynchburg Community Corrections and Pretrial Services Indicted for Conspiring With Supervisee
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Virginia, Nov. 22 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
* * *
Jennifer Peters and Brandon Webber Were Romantically Involved During the Conspiracy
* * *
A federal grand jury returned a nine-count indictment yesterday charging the former Acting Director of Lynchburg Community Corrections and Pretrial Services and one of the men she was supervising with conspiring to illegally access protected more
Va. U.S. Attorney: Outlaw Sentenced as Career Offender for Federal Drug and Firearms Charges
NEWPORT NEWS, Virginia, Nov. 22 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
A Newport News man was sentenced today to 17 years and six months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, on Aug. 29, 2019, at a Best Western hotel in Newport News, law enforcement located and detained Jermaine Damon Outl more
VDOE Announces 472 Virginia Schools Receive $12 Million in School Security Equipment Grants
RICHMOND, Virginia, Nov. 22 -- The Virginia Department of Education issued the following news release:
The Virginia Department of Education today announced the awarding of $12 million in School Security Equipment Grants to 96 school divisions and 472 schools to help protect students, faculty and staff, and visitors.
"The equipment purchased with these grants will help ensure the safety of all students and staff in Virginia's public schools," said Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coon more
Beyer And Peters Introduce Legislation to Address the Diabetes Epidemic Impacting American Children
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Don Beyer, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA) and Scott Peters (D-CA) today introduced the Childhood Diabetes Reduction Act to address growing public health concerns regarding rising childhood obesity rates and diet-related chronic diseases such as diabetes. The legislation would require that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) implement clear nutrient and health warning labels for junk foods, ban junk food advertisements targeti more
Budd, Tillis, NC Delegation Support Establishment of Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub in NC
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Sen. Ted Budd, R-North Carolina, issued the following news release:
Today, Senators Ted Budd (R-NC) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), as well as members of the North Carolina congressional delegation, sent a bipartisan letter to the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) at the Pentagon to "express our support for North Carolina to host a DIU OnRamp Hub to streamline how our state's companies, academic institutions, and entrepreneurs access government programming and funding to better suppo more
CLARKE INTRODUCES BICAMERAL BILL TO CREATE 70% RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCE STANDARD BY 2034, SPEED U.S. CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Yvette Clarke, D-New York, issued the following news release:
Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-VT) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced the bicameral American Renewable Energy Act (AREA), legislation to establish a 70% renewable energy resource standard by 2034 and up to 100% by 2044 to drastically reduce emissions, decrease pollution, and promote community resilience. In order to achieve this goal, AREA prioritizes the develo more
Connolly Statement on GAO Report on WMATA Inspector General Independence
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Gerald "Gerry" Connolly, D-Virginia, issued the following news:
Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, released the following statement after the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report on the status of the independence of WMATA's Office of Inspector General (OIG):
"I welcome this GAO report which concludes that WMATA is now in compliance with more
Connolly, Strong Introduce Legislation to Expand and Improve CyberCorps Scholarship for Service Program
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Gerald "Gerry" Connolly, D-Virginia, issued the following news:
Today, Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA), the Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, and Congressman Dale Strong (R-AL), Member of the House Committees on Armed Services, Homeland Security, and Science, Space, and Technology, introduced the CyberCorps Enhancement Act of 2024, bipartisan legislation to improve and expand the existing C more
Crapo, Risch Celebrate National Native American Heritage Month
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, issued the following news release:
Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) applaud the Senate passage of a Senate resolution recognizing November 2024 as National Native American Heritage Month and the Friday after Thanksgiving as Native American Heritage Day.
"In addition to honoring the remarkable achievements of Native Americans and their ancestors, the resolution emphasizes Congress's reaffirmation of tribal self-governance and more
FAA Releases Public Communication From Air Line Pilots Association
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration has released the following public communication dated Nov. 25, 2024, from the Air Line Pilots Association, McLean, Virginia:
* * *
To: U.S. Department of Transportation
Docket Operations, M-30
West Building Ground Floor
Room W12-140
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590
Subject: Docket No. FAA-2024-2330; Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00393-T. Airworthiness Directives; ATR-GIE Avions de T more
GSA Office of Governmentwide Acquisition Policy Releases Public Communication From Nephron Nitrile
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- The General Services Administration Office of Governmentwide Acquisition Policy has released the following public communication dated Nov. 5, 2024 from Nephron Nitrile LLC, West Columbia, South Carolina:
* * *
Re: Comments on RIN 9000-AO07, FAR-2020-0009
Federal Acquisition Regulation: List of Domestically Nonavailable Articles
Docket Number: FAR-2020-0009
Submitter Information
* Full Organization Legal Name: Nephron Nitrile, LLC
* A small, woman-owned business, is more
How Off-Gassing Keeps Divers, Submariners Safe From Toxin-Releasing Materials
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- The U.S. Department of Defense issued the following news:
Everyone knows that new car smell the chemical odor wafting off the new plastics, fabrics and other materials in a vehicle's interior. Those smells are caused by a chemical process known as off-gassing, which is the release of various chemicals from the materials into the atmosphere. While some may like that smell, it's quite toxic.
Unlike cars, where you can get out whenever you want, that's not possible in deep more
Kaine Applauds Unanimous Senate Passage of Bill to Combat Alzheimer's Disease
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, applauded unanimous Senate passage of his bipartisan BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Reauthorization Act. This legislation reauthorizes critical funding for public health initiatives that combat Alzheimer's disease and preserve brain health, which Kaine successfully got signed into law in 2019.
"A more
Kaine, Cotton, Spanberger, & Smith Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral End Drug Shortages Act
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), alongside U.S. Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) and Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) introduced the End Drug Shortages Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help reduce the prevalence and severity of drug shortages. Drug shortages can adversely affect cl more
McClellan, Markey Reintroduce Legislation to Address Toxic Contamination and Clean Up Schools
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
On World Children's Day, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) reintroduced the Get Toxic Substances Out of Schools Act of 2024 to remove toxic substances from school buildings across the country.
Toxic substances including lead, asbestos, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are particularly prevalent in high-poverty schools. The Get Toxic Substances Out more
OSHA Releases Public Communication From Corvias Infrastructure Solutions Mid-Atlantic
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration has released the following public communication dated Nov. 14, 2024, from Corvias Infrastructure Solutions Mid-Atlantic, Largo, Maryland:
* * *
To: Occupational Safety and Health Administration
200 Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20210
* * *
Dear Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Douglas L. Parker:
We, at Corvias Infrastructure Solutions (CIS) Mid-Atlantic, ar more
Rep. Lauren Boebert Passes Bipartisan Zip Code Bill
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colorado, issued the following news release:
Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-03) applauded the passage of her bipartisan Zip Code bill, H.R. 8753, through the House Oversight Committee. This bipartisan bill benefits communities throughout the country by providing unique Zip Codes for cities and towns including the Colorado communities of Silver Cliff, Lone Tree, Castle Pines, Centennial, Severance, Greenwood Village, and Superior.
"I am thrilled t more
ROTC-like recruitment program helping Space Force find civilian 'Guardians'
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas, Nov. 21 -- The U.S. Air Force Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (16th Air Force) issued the following news:
Like its sister services, the Space Force has officer, enlisted and civilian members all called "Guardians." But the Space Force is looking for new ways to recruit civilian employees, which right now make up about 50 percent of the service.
On college campuses, the Space Force is part of a congressionally mandated pilot program, the Defense Civilian more
State Department Issues Public Schedule for Nov. 21, 2024
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- The U.S. Department of State issued the daily public schedule for Nov. 21, 2024:
* * *
SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN
9:05 a.m. Secretary Blinken delivers remarks at the Overseas Security Advisory Council Annual Briefing in Arlington, Virginia.
(POOLED PRESS COVERAGE)
The remarks will be streamed live on the Department homepage (https://www.state.gov/) and the Department YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/statedept).
4:00 p.m. Secretary Blinken delivers remarks at more
GOVERNMENT - Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Active Component Enlisted Retention
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11274) on Oct. 15, 2024, by military personnel specialist Kristy N. Kamarck and research librarian Carly A. Miller.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Defense Primer: Active Component Enlisted Retention
Retention
The term retention refers to the rate at which military personnel voluntarily choose to stay in the military after their obligated term of service has ended as determined by t more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on DOD Maintenance Depots
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11466) on Oct. 15, 2024, by defense infrastructure policy analyst Luke A. Nicastro and defense logistics and
resource management policy analyst Cameron M. Keys.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Defense Primer: Department of Defense Maintenance Depots
Title 10, United States Code (U.S.C.) Sec.2464 requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to "maintain a core logistics capability that i more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on DOD Title 10 Security Cooperation
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11677) on Oct. 15, 2024, by Christina L. Arabia, security assistance, security cooperation and global arms trade analyst.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Defense Primer: DOD Title 10 Security Cooperation Security Cooperation
Overview
The Department of Defense (DOD) uses the term security cooperation (SC) to refer broadly to DOD interactions with foreign security establishments. SC a more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Health Savings Account Qualified Medical Expenses
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12818) on Oct. 15, 2024, by health care financing analyst Ryan J. Rosso:
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Health Savings Account (HSA) Qualified Medical Expenses
Section 223 of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) allows individuals to establish and contribute to a health savings account (HSA) while they are covered under certain high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). Individuals can withdr more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Salt Typhoon Hacks of Telecommunications Companies & Federal Response Implications
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12798) on Oct. 15, 2024, by cybersecurity policy specialist Chris Jaikaran:
* * *
Salt Typhoon Hacks of Telecommunications Companies and Federal Response Implications
In early October 2024, media outlets reported that People's Republic of China (PRC) state-sponsored hackers infiltrated United States telecommunications companies (including internet service providers). The U.S. go more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Under Secretary of Defense for Research & Engineering
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10834) on Oct. 15, 2024, by Marcy E. Gallo, science and technology policy analyst.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Defense Primer: Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering
Advances in science and technology (S&T) have long played a critical role in ensuring the technological preeminence of the U.S. military. For this reason, the Department of Defense (DOD) is the larges more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Joint Capabilities Integration & Development System
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12817) on Nov. 14, 2024, by defense infrastructure policy analyst Alexandra G. Neenan:
* * *
Defense Primer: Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS)
Introduction
The Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS) is the primary U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) process for determining military weapon systems requirements. According to the JCI more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Restoration of Cell Phone Services - Hurricane Helene
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12779) on Oct. 8, 2024, by telecommunications policy specialists Jill C. Gallagher and Amanda H. Peskin.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Restoration of Cell Phone Services: Hurricane Helene
On September 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene made landfall near Perry, Florida. The hurricane caused flooding and damage to personal property and critical infrastructure, including roads, power, and co more
Congressional Research Service: 'Disaster Relief Fund State of Play - In Brief'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48024) on Oct. 10, 2024, entitled "Disaster Relief Fund State of Play: In Brief" by law librarian Calvin Gibson:
* * *
SUMMARY
This report is designed to introduce congressional staff to examples of legal and nonlegal sources, including statutes, legislation, and dictionaries, for researching legal definitions. It includes governmental sources, such as the United States Code (U.S. Code), the C more
Congressional Research Service: 'Illegal, Unreported & Unregulated Fishing - Frequently Asked Questions' (Part 1 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48215) on Oct. 8, 2024, entitled "Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing: Frequently Asked Questions" by natural resources policy specialists Caitlin Keating-Bitonti and Anthony R. Marshak.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
SUMMARY
Over the past two decades, successive U.S. Administrations and Congresses have recognized that illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing threatens national, more
Congressional Research Service: 'Illegal, Unreported & Unregulated Fishing - Frequently Asked Questions' (Part 2 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48215) on Oct. 8, 2024, entitled "Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing - Frequently Asked Questions:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 3)
* * *
Are Transnational Crimes Associated with IUU Fishing?
IUU fishing, as well as some seafood industries, may be associated with other illegal activities, such as human and other forms of trafficking (e.g., arms, drugs, wildlife), labor exploitation, a more
Congressional Research Service: 'Illegal, Unreported & Unregulated Fishing - Frequently Asked Questions' (Part 3 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48215) on Oct. 8, 2024, entitled "Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing - Frequently Asked Questions:"
(Continued from Part 2 of 3)
* * *
What Actions Are U.S. Agencies Taking to Address IUU Fishing?
Several federal departments and agencies, including DOD, the Department of State, NOAA, and the USCG, engage in various efforts to combat IUU fishing on the high seas and in the EEZs of pa more
Congressional Research Service: 'Sequestration as a Budget Enforcement Process - Frequently Asked Questions'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R42972) on Oct. 8, 2024, entitled "Sequestration as a Budget Enforcement Process - Frequently Asked Questions" by Megan S. Lynch, congress and legislative process specialist:
* * *
Contents
What Is a Sequester? ... 1
What Is the Purpose of a Sequester? ... 1
What Current Budget Requirements Are Enforced by Sequestration? ... 1
When Will a Sequester Occur? ... 2
How Is a Sequester Administe more
Congressional Research Service: 'Social Security Benefits & Price Indexing - Analysis of Selected Policy Options' (Part 1 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48224) on Oct. 11, 2024, entitled "Social Security Benefits and Price Indexing: Analysis of Selected Policy Options" by social policy analyst Barry F. Huston.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
SUMMARY
Under current law, Social Security benefits are indexed in two ways. For workers, the value of past earnings used to calculate initial benefits is linked to changes in average wages in the economy. This more
Congressional Research Service: 'Social Security Benefits & Price Indexing - Analysis of Selected Policy Options' (Part 2 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48224) on Oct. 11, 2024, entitled "Social Security Benefits and Price Indexing - Analysis of Selected Policy Options:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 3)
* * *
The Effects of Selected Price Indexing Options on Social Security Benefits
Changing any component of the current-law benefit computation process (i.e., that is wage indexed) to a slower-growing index (e.g., the CPI, which is a price index) more
Congressional Research Service: 'Social Security Benefits & Price Indexing - Analysis of Selected Policy Options' (Part 3 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48224) on Oct. 11, 2024, entitled "Social Security Benefits and Price Indexing - Analysis of Selected Policy Options:"
(Continued from Part 2 of 3)
* * *
Selected Policy Considerations
This section highlights selected issues that may arise from including more price-indexed mechanisms in the Social Security benefit calculation. First, this section addresses the possibility of price growth outp more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Military Installations Management
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11263) on Nov. 13, 2024, by defense infrastructure policy analyst Andrew Tilghman.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Defense Primer: Military Installations Management
The Department of Defense (DOD) and the three military departments - the Army, Navy, and Air Force - maintain distinctive organizational structures, policies, and programs for managing their installations. Section 2801 of more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on War & Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12816) on Nov. 12, 2024, by African affairs specialist Lauren Ploch Blanchard.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
The War and Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan
The conflict in Sudan that began in 2023 between rival elements of the security forces has fueled the world's largest displacement crisis and largest hunger crisis. The war has pushed over 11 million people from their homes. More than more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12451) on Nov. 13, 2024, by social policy analyst Zhe Li.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
The Social Security Fairness Act of 2023 (H.R. 82): Background for Congress
The Social Security Fairness Act of 2023 (H.R. 82) was introduced by Representative Garret Graves on January 9, 2023. S. 597, a companion bill, was introduced by Senator Sherrod Brown on March 1, 2023. The bills would repe more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Artificial Intelligence - CRS Products
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12458) on Nov. 13, 2024, by science and technology policy analyst Laurie Harris and senior research librarian Rachael D. Roan:
* * *
Artificial Intelligence: CRS Products
Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies - including machine learning, generative AI, and facial recognition technologies - are demonstrating many potential benefits across a variety of sectors of t more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on International Emergency Economic Powers Act
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN11129) on Nov. 13, 2024, by Christopher A. Casey, international trade and finance analyst:
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The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and Tariffs: Historical Background and Key Issues
Updated November 13, 2024
President-elect Donald J. Trump has repeatedly expressed his intention to impose a 10-20% tariff on all imports. He has also asserted that he would impo more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on TRICARE Cost-Sharing Changes in 2025
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN11532) on Nov. 13, 2024, by Bryce H. P. Mendez, defense health care policy specialist.
Here are excerpts:
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TRICARE Cost-Sharing Changes in 2025
The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) administers a statutory health entitlement (under Title 10, Chapter 55, of the U.S. Code) through the Military Health System (MHS). The MHS offers health care benefits and services through its TR more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Burma
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12331) on Nov. 7, 2024, by Asian affairs specialist Ben Dolven.
Here are excerpts:
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Burma: Background and Issues for Congress
Overview
Burma (also known as Myanmar) is a multi-ethnic Southeast Asian nation of 57.5 million that has been under some degree of military rule since 1962 and under an authoritarian military junta since a February 2021 coup d'etat. The coup ended more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on How "Tax Cuts & Jobs Act" Changed Cost Recovery & Tax Credit for Research
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12815) on Nov. 12, 2024, by economic policy senior specialist Jane G. Gravelle and economics specialist Mark P. Keightley.
Here are excerpts:
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How the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" (TCJA, P.L. 115-97) Changed Cost Recovery and the Tax Credit for Research
Tax benefits for investments in research and development are of long-standing interest to Congress and the business community. more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity Contracts
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12558) on Nov. 12, 2024, by government
organization and management analyst Dominick A. Fiorentino and defense infrastructure policy analyst Alexandra G. Neenan.
Here are excerpts:
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Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity Contracts
The federal government has multiple contracting methods for use in procuring goods and services, one of which is called an Indefinite Deliver more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Pacific Islands
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11208) on Nov. 7, 2024, by foreign affairs analyst Jared G. Tupuola and Asian affairs specialist Thomas Lum.
Here are excerpts:
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The Pacific Islands: Background and Issues for Congress
Overview
The Pacific Islands region encompasses 14 Pacific Island countries (PICs), the U.S. state of Hawaii, and several U.S. territories, and spans nearly 15% of the Earth's surface. Suc more
Congressional Research Service: 'Deferred Maintenance & Repair at Civilian Agencies - Causes, Risks & Policy Options' (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48211) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "Deferred Maintenance and Repair at Civilian Agencies: Causes, Risks and Policy Options" by American national government specialist Garrett Hatch.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
Federal civilian agencies own more than 285,000 buildings and structures, which have been acquired over time to help the government achieve its objectives. As these assets age, thei more
Congressional Research Service: 'Deferred Maintenance & Repair at Civilian Agencies - Causes, Risks & Policy Options' (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48211) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "Deferred Maintenance and Repair at Civilian Agencies - Causes, Risks and Policy Options:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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Considerations for Congress
There may be opportunities for Congress to address the $80 billion DMR backlog and other related issues. The disposal of certain assets with high DMR liabilities, for example, might be incorporated into an e more
Congressional Research Service: 'A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences' (Part 1 of 4)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48209) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "A Binding Debt Limit: Background and Possible Consequences" by economic policy analyst D. Andrew Austin.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
In September 2024, gross federal debt was about $35.3 trillion. Debt limit episodes have been a recurring feature of federal fiscal policy since 2001, when federal budget deficits returned after four years of surpluses. The more
Congressional Research Service: 'A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences' (Part 1 of 4)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48209) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 4)
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Treasury Actions in Select Debt Limit Episodes
To date, the modern debt limit has not yet prevented Treasury from paying all federal obligations. During debt limit episodes in 1985, 1995-1996, 2002, 2003, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023, howeve more
Congressional Research Service: 'A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences' (Part 3 of 4)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48209) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences:"
(Continued from Part 2 of 4)
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Treasury and Federal Reserve Contingency Planning
Managing and mitigating risks is an integral part of any large financial institution, no less so for federal agencies responsible for core fiscal operations./127 During the 2011 and 2013 debt limit episodes, Treasu more
Congressional Research Service: 'A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences' (Part 4 of 4)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48209) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences:"
(Continued from Part 3 of 4)
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Potential Economic and Financial Effects
A binding debt limit would not only hinder federal finances and operations, but could also trigger severe economic and financial consequences. A 1979 GAO report noted that a federal default caused by a binding debt limit co more
Congressional Research Service: 'Cluster Munitions: Background and Issues for Congress'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. RS22907) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "Cluster Munitions: Background and Issues for Congress" by nonproliferation specialist Paul K. Kerr and military grounds forces specialist Andrew Feickert:
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Summary
Cluster munitions are air-dropped or ground-launched weapons that release a number of smaller submunitions intended to kill enemy personnel or destroy vehicles. Cluster munitions were develope more
Congressional Research Service: 'Hydrogen Production - Overview & Issues for Congress' (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48196) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "Hydrogen Production: Overview and Issues for Congress" by energy policy analyst Lexie Ryan.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
Various hydrogen production methods, or pathways, can use energy to extract hydrogen from feedstocks such as fossil fuels, biomass, and water. Hydrogen molecules can then be used in functional purposes. Today, hydrogen is predominantly more
Congressional Research Service: 'Hydrogen Production - Overview & Issues for Congress' (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48196) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "Hydrogen Production - Overview and Issues for Congress:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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Producing Hydrogen from Water
All commercial hydrogen production technologies use water, and some use water as a hydrogen feedstock. Several different production pathways can split water (H2O) into hydrogen and oxygen. These pathways may use different energy sources, more
Congressional Research Service: 'State Minimum Wages - An Overview'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R43792) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "State Minimum Wages: An Overview" by labor policy specialist Sarah A. Donovan and research librarian Ellen M. Lechman.
Here are excerpts:
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Summary
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), enacted in 1938, is the federal law that establishes the general minimum wage that must be paid to all covered, nonexempt workers employed in a state or territory of the U more
Congressional Research Service: 'U.S. Marine Corps Force Design Initiative: Background and Issues for Congress'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R47614) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "U.S. Marine Corps Force Design Initiative: Background and Issues for Congress" by military grounds forces specialist Andrew Feickert:
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SUMMARY
On March 23, 2020, the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) announced a major force design initiative referred to as "Force Design 2030," which is now known as "Force Design." As part of this initiative, intended to occur over more
DOD IG Issues Management Advisory on Concerns With Navy's Handling of Incidents Involving Aqueous Film-Forming Foam at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following management advisory (No. DODIG-2025-013) on Nov. 8, 2024, entitled "Concerns with the Navy's Handling of Incidents Involving Aqueous Film-Forming Foam at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR ACQUISITION AND SUSTAINMENT
DIRECTOR, DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
SUBJECT: Management Advisory: Concerns with the Navy's Handling of Incidents more
DOD IG: 'Evaluation of Actions Related to Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility's Contamination of Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam Community Water System'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report (Report No. DODIG-2025-012) on Nov. 8, 2024, entitled "Evaluation of DoD Actions Related to the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility's Contamination of the Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam Community Water System."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
SUBJECT: Evaluation of DoD Actions Related to the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility's Contamination of the Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam Co more
DOD IG: 'Evaluation of Security & Accountability Controls for Defense Items Transferred to Ukraine Through Romania'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report (No. DODIG-2025-019) on Nov. 12, 2024, entitled "Evaluation of Security and Accountability Controls for Defense Items Transferred to Ukraine Through Romania."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR COMMANDER, U.S. AIR FORCES IN EUROPE
DIRECTOR, DEFENSE SECURITY COOPERATION AGENCY
SUBJECT: Evaluation of Security and Accountability Controls for Defense Items Transferred to Ukraine Through Romania (Report No. DOD more
House Advances Bipartisan Bill to Make FAFSA Available by October 1
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 -- Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-North Carolina, chairwoman of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, issued the following news release:
Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) today celebrated the U.S. House of Representatives' passage of the FAFSA Deadline Act with an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 381 to 1.
The FAFSA Deadline Act is sponsored by Committee member U.S. Representative Erin Houchin (R-IN) and would give students, families, an more
Justice Dept.: International Fugitive Home Health Care Owner Sentenced for Fraudulently Billing Medicare
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Nov. 15, 2024:
A Michigan home health care company owner was sentenced yesterday to three years and five months in prison for his role in a health care fraud conspiracy that resulted in almost $7.9 million in false and fraudulent claims for home health care services paid by Medicare Part A.
According to court documents, Muhammad Zafar, 53, of Wayne County, owned and operated a home health care business i more
Justice Dept.: Pharmaceutical Company QOL Medical and CEO Agree to Pay $47M for Allegedly Paying Kickbacks to Induce Claims for QOL's Drug Sucraid
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
Pharmaceutical company QOL Medical LLC (QOL) and its co-owner and CEO, Frederick E. Cooper, have agreed to pay $47 million to resolve allegations that they caused the submission of false claims to federal health care programs, in violation of the False Claims Act and similar state statutes, by offering kickbacks in the form of free Carbon-13 breath testing services to induce claims for QOL's drug Sucraid.
more
Sen. Hawley Urges USPS Nominees to Protect Rural Mail Delivery
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 -- Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, issued the following news release on Nov. 15, 2024:
Today in a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC) nominations hearing for the United States Postal Service (USPS) Board of Governors, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) questioned Val Demings, William Zollars, and Gordon Hartogensis on their commitment to combatting rural mail delivery issues.
Senator Hawley confronted the nominees about the Postal Service's propo more
Va. U.S. Attorney: Virginia Hospital System Agrees to $2.37M False Claims Settlement
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Nov. 16 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia issued the following news release:
Inova Health System Foundation, Inova Health Care Services, Inc., and Inova Physician Partners, LLC, (collectively, Inova), located in Falls Church, agreed to pay $2,378,731.06 to settle claims that it submitted claims to Medicaid that contained falsified information.
Inova voluntarily submitted written disclosures to the U.S. Attorney's Office and the Virgin more
LINTECH GLOBAL Wins $3,112,171 Federal Contract
WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 -- LINTECH GLOBAL, Farmington Hills, Michigan, won a federal contract award for $3,112,171 from the Department of Defense Washington Headquarters Services (WHS) for other computer related services. The document states, about the contract: information technology support services for the office of the inspector general (oig)(3-month bridge).
Contract Award Number: HQ003425C0002; ueiSAM: YT1QJBHRM6D5; NAICS Code: 541519; Product Service Code (PSC): 7e20; Solicitation Number: HQ more
Americans for Tax Reform Issues Commentary: Caught on Tape - Postmaster Brags About Record Hiring of 'Comrades' in Public Sector Unions
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Americans for Tax Reform issued the following commentary on Nov. 14, 2024:
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Caught on Tape: Postmaster Brags About Record Hiring of 'Comrades' in Public Sector Unions
By Mike Palicz and Rowan Saydlowski
Postmaster General Louis DeJoy was caught on tape praising public sector unions and asking for these unionized "comrades" to celebrate him over his hiring plan, according to a recent report.
Reporter Matthew Foldi first revealed the leaked audio clip in a Substack more
AUSA Staff Contribute to Veterans History Project
ARLINGTON, Virginia, Nov. 15 [Category: National Defense] -- The Association of the U.S. Army issued the following news:
As part of its efforts to help tell the Army story, Association of the U.S. Army staff members are sharing their own experiences as part of the Veterans History Project.
Established in 2000, the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress collects, preserves and makes accessible the firsthand recollections of U.S. military veterans who served from World War I through more
DOD IG: 'Evaluation of Operation, Maintenance, Safety & Oversight of Navy's Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report (No. DODIG-2025-011) on Nov. 8, 2024, entitled "Evaluation of the Operation, Maintenance, Safety, and Oversight of the Navy's Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR ACQUISITION AND SUSTAINMENT
DIRECTOR, DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
SUBJECT: Evaluation of the Operation, Maintenance, Safety, and Oversigh more
DOD IG: DOD FY 2024 Agency Financial Report, Including the FY 2024 and FY 2023 Agency-Wide Financial Statements
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSres) -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release:
The DoD Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released its Independent Auditor's Reports as part of the DoD's FY 2024 Agency Financial Report, which includes the Agency-Wide Financial Statements for FY 2024 and FY 2023. The Independent Auditor's Reports comprise three separate reports--Report on the Financial Statements, Report on Internal Control over Financial Repo more
Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Vice Chair Judith Pryor Visits Ohio Customers Malco Products and First Solar
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Cleveland, Ohio Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) First Vice President and Vice Chair Judith Pryor travelled to Ohio November 12-15 to meet with prospective and current EXIM customers to highlight how EXIM financing can help Ohio businesses grow through exporting.In Barberton, OH, Vice Chair Pryor met with EXIM customer Malco Products, Inc., a manufactur more
FTC Issues Agency Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2024
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Federal Trade Commission issued the following news release:
The Federal Trade Commission today issued its Fiscal Year 2024 Agency Financial Report which highlights the FTC's accomplishments in protecting consumers and promoting competition and reaffirms the agency's commitment to responsible stewardship of resources and sound financial operations.
This report, which is required by the Office of Management and Budget, includes annual audited financial statements, as more
FY 2025 Top DOD Management and Performance Challenges, FY 2025 Oversight Plan for DOD IG
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Nov. 15, 2024:
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released its "FY 2025 Top DoD Management and Performance Challenges" and "FY 2025 Oversight Plan."
The FY 2025 Top DoD Management and Performance Challenges report presents six challenges that we consider to be significant matters facing th more
Hawai'i Congressional Delegation: Navy Red Hill Failures Unacceptable, Must Immediately Implement Inspector General Recommendations
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Rep. Ed Case, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai'i) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai'i) and U.S. Representatives Ed Case (D-Hawai'i) and Jill Tokuda (D-Hawai'i) today released the following joint statement on two reports issued by the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (IG) on the overall safety of the Defense Fuel Support Point Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. The delegation called for the independent investigations in more
Man dies after falling from the border barrier near the Otay Mesa Port of Entry
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Customs and Border Protection issued the following news release:
This notification is being issued to the public pursuant to the CBP policy regarding Notification and Review Procedures for Certain Deaths and Deaths in Custody and the Department of Homeland Security FY 2021 Appropriation (H. Rept. 116-458) reporting requirements related to CBP-involved deaths.
On November 8, 2024, at approximately 5:42 a.m., a National Guardsman more
N.Y. A.G. James Secures $45 Million, Delivers Major Reforms to 4 Nursing Homes Following Significant Financial Fraud, Resident Neglect
ALBANY, New York, Nov. 15 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024:
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Independent Monitors Installed by AG James to Oversee Four Centers Nursing Homes Will Continue Improving Care After Residents Suffered Years of Mistreatment and Neglect
Settlement Marks Third Set of Significant Nursing Home Reforms Achieved by AG James to Protect Residents
* * *
NNew York Attorney General Letitia James today announced a major settlement with the own more
Performance and Accountability Report, Fiscal Year 2024
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 (TNSrep) -- The Government Accountability Office issued the following report:
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Fast Facts
GAO's work yielded $67.5 billion in financial benefits for the federal government in FY 2024--a return of $76 for every dollar invested in us. We did it by recommending ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of federal programs and more.
For example, we:
Prompted the Department of Defense to improve its efforts to identify improper payments--i.e., more
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement on the TIGTA nomination, on Nov. 14, 2024:
* * *
The Finance Committee meets this morning to discuss the nomination of David Johnson to serve as Inspector General for Tax Administration.
First, on Mr. Johnson's background. This is a non-partisan, down-the-middle nominee for a position that requires exactly that type of individual.
Mr. Johnson currently serves as the Assis more
Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Crapo Issues Statement at Hearing to Consider Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a nomination hearing to consider David Johnson to be U.S. Department of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
As prepared for delivery:
"Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and welcome to our nominee, Mr. Johnson. Congratulations on your nomination a more
Shaheen, Reed Urge U.S. Departments of Defense and Justice to Investigate Musk's Involvement in U.S. Government Contracts with SpaceX, Raises Concerns with the Space Force's Reliance on SpaceX for National Security Activities
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire, issued the following news release:
Following reports of Elon Musk's regular contact with Vladimir Putin and other Russian officials for the last two years, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, and Jack Reed (D-RI), the Chairman of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, are calling for the Departments of Justice and Defense to investigate whether thi more
U.S. Attorney for D.C.: Former D.C. Public Official Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024:
Wendy Nicole Villatoro, 40, formerly of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty today to one count of bank fraud, for a scheme to submit fraudulent applications seeking money from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that netted her $844,000.
The plea was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, Special Agent in Charge Charmeka Parker of the U.S. Department of more
Utah Air Guard Showcases Nuclear Operations Readiness
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Nebraska, Nov. 15 -- The U.S. Strategic Command issued the following news:
By Master Sgt. Nicholas Perez, 151st Wing
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah - The Utah Air National Guard completed an intensive Nuclear Operations Readiness Exercise Nov. 1-3.
The exercise engaged the 151st Wing in around-the-clock operations, preparing members to execute their nuclear mission immediately. This annual exercise reflects UTANG's role in the broader nuclear operations strategy, ensuring readin more
Virginians Continue to Reap Benefits of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law on Its Three-Year Anniversary
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) released the following statement to mark the three-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law becoming law:
"In the past three years, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which we authored and helped pass, has been transformative for communities across Virginia. This law has upgraded our roads, railways, and airports, made our air and wate more
Virginians Continue to Reap Benefits of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law on its Three-Year Anniversary
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Mark Warner, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) released the following statement to mark the three-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law becoming law:
"In the past three years, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which we authored and helped pass, has been transformative for communities across Virginia. This law has upgraded our roads, railways, and airports, made our air and wa more
Ariz. U.S. Attorney: Country Club to Pay Over $630,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Improper Receipt of Paycheck Protection Program Loan
PHOENIX, Arizona, Nov. 14 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona issued the following news release:
Briarwood Country Club, Inc., a private country club located in Sun City has agreed to pay $631,400 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly obtaining a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for which it was not eligible.
When Congress enacted the Coronavirus, Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, it authorized forgiva more
At Hearing, Warren Expresses Full Support for IRS Watchdog Nominee
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
At a hearing of the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) highlighted the qualifications of David Johnson, Assistant Inspector General for Investigations at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General and nominee for Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Mr. Johnson brings over a decade of experience as a federal prosecutor more
Clean Energy: New DOE Office Should Take Steps to Improve Performance Management and Workforce Planning
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Government Accountability Office issued the following report:
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Fast Facts
In 2021, the Department of Energy created a new office to manage about $27 billion in funding for clean energy projects. This Q&A report summarizes how DOE developed this office and its responsibilities.
The office is funding new projects. In terms of office oversight and staffing, DOE is doing some things well, but could do more going forward. For example:
more
Crapo Statement at Hearing to Consider Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, issued the following news release:
Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a nomination hearing to consider David Johnson to be U.S. Department of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
As prepared for delivery:
"Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and welcome to our nominee, Mr. Johnson. Congratulations on your nomination and thank you for your willingness to serve.
"This po more
DOD IG: Evaluation of Security and Accountability Controls for Defense Items Transferred to Ukraine Through Romania - DODIG-2025-019
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024:
Evaluation
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released its report "Evaluation of Security and Accountability Controls for Defense Items Transferred to Ukraine Through Romania." This evaluation is part of an ongoing review of the effectiveness of the DoD's accountability cont more
DOD IG: Special Inspector General Issues Latest Quarterly Report to Congress for Operation Atlantic Resolve
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024:
Special Inspector General for Operation Atlantic Resolve (OAR), DoD Inspector General Robert P. Storch, announced today the release of the fourth quarterly report on OAR to the United States Congress.
The Special Inspector General report summarizes U.S. funding, programs, and operations from July 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024, in support of Ukr more
DOD OIG Releases Reports and Management Advisory on Hawaii's Red Hill Fuel Incidents
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024:
Evaluation
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released two reports on the overall safety of the Defense Fuel Support Point Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH), including the operation of the Navy's Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility and the actions taken with regard to t more
Ernst Demands FDIC IG Investigate More Than 500 Allegations of Harassment
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
After a report exposed the pervasive culture of harassment and other egregious behavior at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is leading five of her colleagues in demanding the Inspector General (IG) investigate every single one of the more than 500 allegations of misconduct.
The senators blasted the agency for allowing a toxic culture to run rampant and urged the more
Export-Import Bank of the United States Board of Directors Approves Fifth Make More in America Transaction
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
The Board of Directors at the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) today unanimously approved its fifth Make More in America (MMIA) deal, bringing the total amount authorized under the flagship initiative to nearly $325 million.The nearly $51 million in financing will go to U.S. small business exporter, Electrovaya USA, Inc. Based in Jamestown, New York, El more
Federal Housing Finance Agency IG: 'Office of the Ombudsman Did Not Meet Two Deadlines When Processing Incoming Submissions'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Federal Housing Finance Agency Inspector General issued the following compliance review (No. COM-2025-001) on Nov. 12, 2024 entitled "Office of the Ombudsman Did Not Meet Two Deadlines When Processing Incoming Submissions."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PURPOSE
The Federal Housing Finance Agency's (FHFA or Agency) Office of the Ombudsman (Office) is required by law to consider complaints and appeals regarding the Agency's supervisory activiti more
Hawai'i Congressional Delegation: Navy's Red Hill Failures Unacceptable, Must Immediately Implement IG Recommendations
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release:
Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai'i) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai'i) and U.S. Representatives Ed Case (D-Hawai'i) and Jill Tokuda (D-Hawai'i) today released the following joint statement on two reports issued by the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General on the overall safety of the Defense Fuel Support Point Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. The delegation called for the independent investigations in Nove more
Homeland Security Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Bill
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Patty Murray, D-Washington, chairwoman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following news release:
The Fiscal Year 2025 Homeland Security Appropriations Act provides $66.16 billion in total discretionary funding.
"This bill tackles some of the most urgent challenges facing our country, while also delivering on important Connecticut priorities. It provides important resources to improve border security, help stop the flow of fentanyl and make our immig more
Homeland Security IG: Paragon Systems Agrees to Pay $52M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Fraudulently Obtained Small Business Contracts and Kickbacks
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Athena Services International, LLC and its Owner Also Agree to Pay More Than $1.6 Million to Resolve Related Allegations.
Herndon, Virginia-based contractor Paragon Systems Inc. (Paragon) has agreed to pay to the United States $52 million to settle allegations that the company violated the False Claims Act by knowingly causing purported small businesses that it contr more
House Oversight Committee Chairman Comer Applauds House Passage of Bills to Improve Government Efficiency, Transparency & Security
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. James Comer, R-Kentucky, chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, issued the following news release on Nov. 13, 2024:
House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) today applauded the House of Representatives' passage of five bills aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, accountability, and security across the federal government. These bills previously passed out of the Oversight Committee, receiving broad bipa more
House Oversight Committee Members Mace & Grothman Open Joint Hearing on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. James Comer, R-Kentucky, chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, issued the following news release on Nov. 13, 2024:
Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation Chairwoman Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) and Subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs Chairman Glenn Grothman (R-Wis.) delivered opening statements at today's joint subcommittee hearing on "Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena: Exposing th more
N.C. U.S. Attorney: Indian Trail Man on Supervised Release for Federal Conviction Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud for COVID-19 Scheme
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 14 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina issued the following news release:
Roger Trent Melchor, 56, of Indian Trail, N.C., pleaded guilty yesterday to wire fraud for fraudulently obtaining $32,000 in COVID-19 pandemic relief loans, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
According to plea documents and the court hearing, between July 2020 to May 2021, Melchor used false informatio more
New Trump and Musk Government 'Efficiency' Initiative is a Clown Car - Albeit One That Endangers Our Economy and the Rule of Law
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The Center for Progressive Reform issued the following statement on Nov. 13, 2024, by policy director James Goodwin:
* * *
It's hard to know where to begin with President-elect Donald Trump's announcement last night of a new government "efficiency" agency under the leadership of Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy.
It's tempting to dismiss this proposal as deeply unserious -- after all, it adds new bureaucracy that, despite being charged with promoting efficiency in the feder more
Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Joni Ernst Demanding FDIC IG Investigate 500+ Allegations of Harassment
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Rick Scott, R-Florida, issued the following news release:
After a report exposed the pervasive culture of harassment and other egregious behavior at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Joni Ernst and four of their colleagues in demanding the Inspector General (IG) investigate every single one of the more than 500 allegations of misconduct. The senators blasted the agency for allowing a toxic culture to run rampant and u more
Senator Marshall Calls for Federal Watchdog to Investigate Intelligence Community's Covid-19 Origins Assessment
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, issued the following news release:
Today U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. is releasing the latest developments in his ongoing investigation into Covid-19 origins which includes new information from a Department of Defense (DoD) whistleblower. New records from the whistleblower confirm that the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) had access to evidence during its assessment of the COVID-19 origin that points to the virus' laboratory origins at more
Texas U.S. Attorney: Houston Dental Clinic Employee Imprisoned for Role in $6M Bribery Scheme
HOUSTON, Texas, Nov. 14 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas issued the following news release:
A 54-year-old man has been sentenced following his conviction for conspiring to pay and receive health care kickbacks and payment of kickbacks to marketers, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
A federal jury deliberated for an hour following a three-day trial before finding Ifeanyi Ozoh guilty on all counts Feb. 14.
U.S. District Chief Judge Randy Crane has more
Va. U.S. Attorney: Dublin Man Pleads Guilty to Prescribing Pain Medication Without a License
ROANOKE, Virginia, Nov. 14 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia issued the following news release:
A Dublin, Virginia man, who continued to prescribe pain medication even after he was informed he lacked the necessary license to do so, pled guilty recently to federal charges.
Ehikioya Osemobor, 47, waived his right to be indicted and pled guilty last week to a one count Information charging him with using an expired Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Number more
Colo. U.S. Attorney: UCHealth Agrees to Pay $23M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Billing for Emergency Department Visits
DENVER, Colorado, Nov. 13 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Colorado issued the following news release:
University of Colorado Health, known as UCHealth and headquartered in Aurora, Colorado, has agreed to pay $23 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in seeking and receiving payment from federal health care programs for visits to its emergency departments, by falsely coding certainEvaluation & Management (E&M) claims submitted to the Medicare more
Congressional Research Service: 'Deferred Maintenance & Repair at Civilian Agencies - Causes, Risks & Policy Options' (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48211) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "Deferred Maintenance and Repair at Civilian Agencies: Causes, Risks and Policy Options" by American national government specialist Garrett Hatch.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
Federal civilian agencies own more than 285,000 buildings and structures, which have been acquired over time to help the government achieve its objectives. As these assets age, thei more
Duckworth, Durbin Lead Delegation Letter Urging GSA to Act to Remediate Elevated Levels of Lead and Legionella Found in Federal Buildings in Chicago, Rockford
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Illinois, issued the following news release:
In a letter to GSA leadership, Duckworth, Durbin and members of the Illinois delegation urge the agency to prioritize remediating drinking water concerns in four federal buildings
Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Danny Davis (D-IL07), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Eric S more
Durbin, Duckworth Lead Delegation Letter Urging GSA To Act To Remediate Elevated Levels Of Lead And Legionella Found In Federal Buildings In Chicago, Rockford
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- Sen. Richard J. Durbin, D-Illinois, issued the following news release:
In a letter to GSA leadership, Durbin. Duckworth, and members of the Illinois delegation urge the agency to prioritize remediating drinking water concerns in four federal buildings
Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Danny Davis (D-IL07), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Er more
Ernst Cracks Down on Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
As part of her continuing effort to prevent sexual misconduct in the prison system, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is supporting the bipartisan Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act to address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates. From 2019-2023 there were 1,600 female staff members attacked by inmates at Thomson Federal Prison, just acro more
Fla. U.S. Attorney: Florida Ophthalmology Practice Agrees to Pay $1.3M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Claims for Cranial Ultrasounds
TAMPA, Florida, Nov. 13 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida issued the following news release on Nov. 12, 2024:
Brandon Eye Associates P.A. (Brandon Eye), an ophthalmology practice with offices in Brandon, Sun City and Plant City, Florida, has agreed to pay $1.3 million to resolve alleged violations of the False Claims Act and an analogous Florida statute arising from its billing for trans-cranial doppler ultrasounds (TCDs) provided through a kickback arrangeme more
General Officer Announcements
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Defense issued the following news:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III announced today that the president has made the following nominations:
Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Robert C. Fulford for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy commander, U.S. European Command. Fulford is currently serving as commanding general, 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, California.
Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Adam L. Chalkley for appoi more
Grassley Seeks Accountability from Every Federal OIG Regarding Employee Misconduct
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is seeking transparency from federal Offices of Inspectors General (OIGs) regarding their efforts to hold employees accountable for sexual misconduct. Grassley sent letters to 76 OIGs requesting data on all sexual harassment settlements OIGs have paid out using taxpayer dollars in the last five years.
"Inspectors General are responsible for shining a light on government abu more
Grassley, Johnson to DOJ and FBI: Preserve All Records on Jack Smith's Trump-Targeted Investigations
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) are putting the Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI on notice to preserve all records related to Special Counsel Jack Smith's criminal investigations into President Donald Trump, in order to ensure Congress' ability to conduct proper oversight. Notably, former FBI Special Agent in Charge Timothy Thibault who publicly engaged in anti-Trump political p more
ICYMI: 'Almost half' of Hospitals Failing to Comply with Price Transparency Law, OIG Report Finds
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 [Category: Insurance] -- America's Health Insurance Plans issued the following news release:
A new report by HHS's Office of Inspector General (OIG) finds widespread failure among hospitals to comply with federal price transparency law.
What they're saying: "An HHS inspector general's report found that almost half of 100 surveyed hospitals weren't fully complying with CMS' hospital price transparency rule," Axios reports.
"Many hospitals are not publishing their prices i more
Interior IG: 'U.S. Park Police Officers' Use of Deadly Force Following a Pursuit on George Washington Memorial Parkway'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following report (No. 22-0785) on Nov. 12, 2024, entitled "U.S. Park Police Officers' Use of Deadly Force Following a Pursuit on the George Washington Memorial Parkway."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
We investigated whether two U.S. Park Police (USPP) officers, Lucas Vinyard (Officer 1) and Alejandro Amaya (Officer 2), acted in accordance with USPP policies in place at the time during their vehicular pursuit and su more
Justice Dept.: Federal Bureau of Prison Lieutenant Indicted for Civil Rights Violations
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Nov. 12, 2024:
A Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) lieutenant at U.S. Penitentiary (USP) McCreary, in Pine Knot, Kentucky, was indicted last week by a federal grand jury in London, Kentucky, for federal civil rights violations, including violating an individual's rights under the color of law, falsifying records to impede an investigation, and witness tampering.
The indictment alleges that Zachary Toney, more
Justice Dept.: Florida Ophthalmology Practice Agrees to Pay $1.3M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Claims for Cranial Ultrasounds
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Nov. 12, 2024:
Brandon Eye Associates P.A. (Brandon Eye), an ophthalmology practice with offices in Brandon, Sun City and Plant City, Florida, has agreed to pay $1.3 million to resolve alleged violations of the False Claims Act and an analogous Florida statute arising from its billing for trans-cranial doppler ultrasounds (TCDs) provided through a kickback arrangement with a third party. Brandon Eye has a more
Justice Dept.: Paragon Systems Agrees to Pay $52M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Fraudulently Obtained Small Business Contracts and Kickbacks
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
* * *
Athena Services International LLC, Athena Joint Venture Services LLC, and Owner Agree to Pay Over $1.6M to Resolve Related Allegations
* * *
Herndon, Virginia-based contractor Paragon Systems Inc. (Paragon) has agreed to pay to the United States $52 million to settle allegations that the company violated the False Claims Act by knowingly causing purported small businesses that it controlled to frau more
Justice Dept.: UCHealth Agrees to Pay $23M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Billing for Emergency Department Visits
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
University of Colorado Health, known as UCHealth and headquartered in Aurora, Colorado, has agreed to pay $23 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in seeking and receiving payment from federal health care programs for visits to its emergency departments, by falsely coding certain Evaluation & Management (E&M) claims submitted to the Medicare and TRICARE programs.
"Improperly more
Ky. U.S. Attorney: USP McCreary Lieutenant Indicted for Civil Rights Violations
LONDON, Kentucky, Nov. 13 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky issued the following news release on Nov. 12, 2024:
A Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) lieutenant at U.S. Penitentiary (USP) McCreary, in Pine Knot, Kentucky, was indicted on Thursday by a federal grand jury in London, Kentucky, for federal civil rights violations, including violating an individual's rights under the color of law, falsifying records to impede an investigation, and witness tampering more
Md. U.S. Attorney: Paragon Systems Agrees to Pay $52M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Fraudulently Obtained Small Business Contracts and Kickbacks
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland issued the following news release:
Herndon, Virginia-based contractor Paragon Systems Inc. (Paragon) has agreed to pay to the United States $52 million to settle allegations that the company violated the False Claims Act by knowingly causing purported small businesses that it controlled to fraudulently obtain small business set-aside contracts. The settlement further resolves allegations that Paragon violated th more
PhRMA Statement on the 340B Drug Pricing Program
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America issued the following statement on Nov. 12, 2024:
* * *
Today, Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) Senior Vice President Alex Schriver released the following statement on the 340B drug pricing program:
"We continue to have serious concerns about persistent and often illegal abuse of 340B, which is driving up costs for patients, employers and taxpayers. The law specifically prohibits hospita more
Rep. Robert Garcia Passes Bill to Strengthen Oversight of Government Accountability Office
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- Rep. Robert Garcia, D-California, issued the following news release on Nov. 12, 2024:
Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) and Senator Mike Braun's (R-IN) bipartisan bill to improve government oversight and effectiveness has passed the U.S. House. The bill passed the Senate by unanimous consent in November 2023, and will now be sent to President Biden to be signed into law. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) Inspector General Parity Act will strengthen the GAO more
Wash. U.S. Attorney's Office Commitment to Protecting Patients and Consumers From Health Care Fraud Leads to Exponential Growth in Prosecutions
SPOKANE, Washington, Nov. 13 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington issued the following news release:
Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that in the last several months, the office she leads prosecuted several significant cases that protected patients, consumers, and the community from health care fraud.
"Safe and affordable health care is critical for a thriving community. Healthcare is a multi-billi more
Congressional Research Service: 'A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences' (Part 1 of 4)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48209) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "A Binding Debt Limit: Background and Possible Consequences" by economic policy analyst D. Andrew Austin.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
SUMMARY
In September 2024, gross federal debt was about $35.3 trillion. Debt limit episodes have been a recurring feature of federal fiscal policy since 2001, when federal budget deficits returned after four years of surpluses. The more
Congressional Research Service: 'A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences' (Part 1 of 4)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48209) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 4)
* * *
Treasury Actions in Select Debt Limit Episodes
To date, the modern debt limit has not yet prevented Treasury from paying all federal obligations. During debt limit episodes in 1985, 1995-1996, 2002, 2003, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023, howeve more
Congressional Research Service: 'A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences' (Part 3 of 4)
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48209) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "A Binding Debt Limit - Background and Possible Consequences:"
(Continued from Part 2 of 4)
* * *
Treasury and Federal Reserve Contingency Planning
Managing and mitigating risks is an integral part of any large financial institution, no less so for federal agencies responsible for core fiscal operations./127 During the 2011 and 2013 debt limit episodes, Treasu more
Export-Import Bank of the United States Marks 90th Anniversary with $8.4 Billion in FY24 Deals, Supporting 38,000 U.S. Jobs
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Today, Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis announced that in Fiscal Year 2024, EXIM authorized $8.4 billion in deals, supporting approximately 38,000 jobs across the country. Throughout FY24, EXIM authorized more than 1,400 transactions, and more than 85 percent of deals supported small businesses. Those transactions inclu more
Rep. Burchett introduces bill protecting UAP whistleblowers
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 -- Rep. Timothy Burchett, R-Tennessee, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the UAP Whistleblower Protection Act.
"We need to protect folks who want to come forward," said Rep. Burchett."Our government spends tens of millions of dollars on looking into UAPs, yet when someone wants to bring something forward, members of our government want to shut it down. People who want to bring the truth to light should be protected." more
Sen. Hawley Calls for Full-Scale Investigation Into FEMA Discrimination Against Trump Supporters in Need of Disaster Relief Aid
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 -- Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) wrote a letter to Inspector General Joseph Cuffari, who oversees investigations into the Department of Homeland Security and its agencies, calling on him to review complaints of a Biden Administration supervisor who directed her team to avoid providing federal assistance to Floridians who displayed support for President-elect Donald Trump.
Senator Hawley's letter comes after more
Statement of U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner & Tim Kaine & U.S. Rep. Don Beyer
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 -- Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine and U.S. Representative Don Beyer (all D-VA) released the statement below following the release of a report by the Department of the Interior's Office of the Inspector General on the use of deadly force by U.S. Park Police officers against Bijan Ghaisar.
"The death of Bijan Ghaisar remains a great tragedy. Despite the OIG's findings that the officers who killed Bijan Ghai more
Warner, Kaine & Beyer on Inspector General Report About the Use of Deadly Force Against Bijan Ghaisar
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 -- Sen. Mark Warner, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (all D-VA) released the statement below following the release of a report by the Department of the Interior's Office of the Inspector General on the use of deadly force by U.S. Park Police officers against Bijan Ghaisar.
"The death of Bijan Ghaisar remains a great tragedy. Despite the OIG's findings that the officers who killed Bijan Ghaisar did not more
Whistleblower Protection: Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Needs to Improve Awareness of FBI Employee Rights
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Government Accountability Office issued the following report:
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Fast Facts
This report addresses management issues for the Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General. We found these issues during our review of how Justice handles FBI whistleblower protections.
The Office still doesn't always contact FBI whistleblower retaliation complainants within 15 days. It failed to meet this requirement in 46% of complaints.
Also, more
Whistleblower Protection: DOJ and FBI Need to Improve Employees' Awareness of Rights
WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Government Accountability Office issued the following report:
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Fast Facts
Whistleblowers can help fight waste, fraud, and abuse. However, they also risk retaliation, such as demotion.
We examined how the Department of Justice handles FBI whistleblower retaliation complaints following our 2015 report.
DOJ closed about 5 times more FBI whistleblower retaliation complaints since our 2015 report
DOJ took 7 years to update its regulat more
House Science, Space & Technology Committee Issues Report on NASA Reauthorization Act
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 -- The House Science, Space and Technology Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-701) on the NASA Reauthorization Act (H.R. 8958), which aims to reauthorize the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The report was advanced by Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Oklahoma, on Sept. 23, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Purpose and Summary
H.R. 8958 provides guidance and direction to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). This bill reaffirms the Nation's commitment more
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued a report (S.Rpt. 118-228) on the Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act (S. 3067), which aims to require the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to conduct an evaluation and submit to Congress a report on ways to reduce the complexity of the cost effectiveness requirements for hazard mitigation assistance. The report was advanced by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, on Sept. 23, 20 more
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued a report (S.Rpt. 118-220) on the FEHB Protection Act (S. 4035), which aims to require the director of the Office of Personnel Management to take certain actions with respect to the health insurance program carried out under chapter 89 of Title 5 of the U.S. Code. The report was advanced by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, on Sept. 10, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
I. PURPOSE AND SUMMARY
S. 4035, the F more
WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued a report (S.Rpt. 118-226) on the Financial Management Risk Reduction Act (S. 4716), which aims to amend section 7504 of Title 31 of the U.S. Code to improve the single audit requirements. The report was advanced by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, on Sept. 19, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
I. Purpose and Summary
S. 4716, the Financial Management Risk Reduction Act, amends Section 7504 of title 31, Uni more
Journalism Tipoffs from TNS
Association of Colleges: Student Report - Ofsted's Sir Martyn Oliver on Changes to FE Inspections
LONDON, England, Nov. 22 -- The Association of Colleges issued the following news:
Ofsted's Martyn Oliver reacted to colleges' concerns over delays to changes to Ofsted inspections and reports for further education providers.
In September, Ofsted scrapped one-line judgments for primary and secondary schools, with a pledge to extend this to FE from September 2025, after the death of headteacher Ruth Perry prompted Ofsted bring about wide-scale changes in the way in which they inspect schools an more
Association of Colleges: Student Report - Students With Trauma at Risk of Turning to Violence, Says Expert
LONDON, England, Nov. 22 (TNSres) -- The Association of Colleges issued the following news:
College students with trauma need support to prevent them from turning to violence, Polly Harrow, Assistant Principal, Kirklees College, told delegates at the Association of Colleges Annual Conference and Exhibition.
Harrow, who is the country's first FE student support champion, highlighted research from the Open University's 2020 Youth Violence Commission Report which linked youth violence and trauma. more
Bangladesh: RSF Welcomes Statement by Muhammad Yunus on False Accusations Against Journalists and Calls for Urgent Action on Press Freedom
PARIS, France, Nov. 22 -- Reporters Without Borders issued the following news:
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) welcomes the statement made by the head of Bangladesh's interim government, Muhammad Yunus, which acknowledged that the murder accusations made against over 140 journalists had been hasty conclusions based on "old laws and practices." RSF calls on Muhammad Yunus to push ahead with structural reforms to guarantee press freedom in Bangladesh.
Questioned by the national daily Daily Star more
CJL Weighs in on the DOJ's Final Proposed Remedies for Google Search Monopoly
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Open Markets Institute issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
Center for Journalism & Liberty (CJL) at the Open Markets Institute Director Dr. Courtney Radsch shared the following statement in response to the proposed final judgement the Department of Justice has put forward to address Google's monopoly over online search.
"The trial for this case revealed that Google's self-dealing behavior to monopolize the search market was facilitated by its ownership a more
Dow Jones Launches in South Korea Its First Ever Newswires Language Service Powered by AI
NEW YORK, Nov. 22 -- Dow Jones, a provider of news and business information, issued the following news release:
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'Dow Jones Korean Language Service' launch represents pathways to penetrate into untapped markets and broaden user base across non-English speaking regions
* * *
Singapore - [November 21, 2024] - Dow Jones Newswires took a step towards its ambitions to expand into new markets with the launch of its first AI-enabled language service in Korean.
Built for the business and fina more
Independent Women's Forum and Independent Women's Law Center Call on The Premier Women's Professional Golf Organizations to Keep Women's Golf Female
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- The Independent Women's Forum issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
* * *
Demands Grow Louder for the LPGA, USGA, & IGF to Repeal All Policies that Allow Male Golfers to Qualify, Compete, and Win in Women's Golf
* * *
Today, Independent Women's Forum (IWF) and Independent Women's Law Center (IWLC) issued a letter calling on officials with the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), United States Golf Association (USGA), and International Golf Federat more
International Press Institute: IJ4EU Awards 475,000 Euros to 13 Investigative Projects
VIENNA, Austria, Nov. 22 -- The International Press Institute issued the following news:
* * *
Announcing the results of the latest call for proposals under IPI's IJ4EU programme
* * *
Environmental threats, arms production and AI in the EU's security apparatus are among the topics to be tackled by 13 cross-border teams awarded funding under the latest call of IPI's flagship support scheme for investigative journalism in Europe.
From examining Europe's preparedness for future flooding to ex more
L.A. Times Names Amy Nicholson as Film Critic
EL SEGUNDO, California, Nov. 22 -- The Los Angeles Times issued the following news release:
The following announcement is sent on behalf of Film Editor Joshua Rothkopf, Deputy Editor Matt Brennan and Entertainment and Arts Assistant Managing Editor Craig Nakano:
Amy Nicholson, a veteran Los Angeles-based film critic, journalist and podcaster, will become the paper's film critic after an extensive months-long search.
"Hollywood is my joy, my fuel and my home," Nicholson said. "I'm honored to s more
Poynter and Google News Initiative Expand Fact-Checking Efforts in Canada
ST. PETERSBURG, Florida, Nov. 22 -- The Poynter Institute issued the following news release:
* * *
New and expanded programming from Poynter's fact-checking and media literacy initiatives will help combat misinformation
* * *
The Poynter Institute, the International Fact-Checking Network and MediaWise, with support from Google News Initiative, will launch a comprehensive program to strengthen fact-checking and media literacy across Canada. Divided into three programs, two of the three initia more
Pulitzer Center: Former Fellow's 'Far From Home' Featured at Multiple Film Festivals
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Pulitzer Center, an organization that say it combines journalism and engagement, issued the following news:
Far from Home--a Pulitzer Center-supported documentary by 2022 Medill graduate Ankita M. Kumar has been accepted into eight film festivals and counting. Far from Home is the story of Samira Faizi, who moved to India from Afghanistan in search of a better life, but is now grappling with slow asylum processes and the lack of a refugee law to protect her rights. This i more
Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Cardin, Sen. Sullivan Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Counter Censorship in China & Promote Free Expression for Chinese Citizens
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Maryland, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
Today, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) introduced the Informing a Nation with Free, Open, and Reliable Media (INFORM) Act to improve access to independent information and advance freedom of expression for citizens in the People's Republic of China (PRC).
This le more
Student Report: NHS Trailblazer Leads the Way on Student Mental Health
LONDON, England, Nov. 22 -- The Association of Colleges issued the following news:
A college group in London and a college in the West Midlands are leading innovative work to bring mental health and wellbeing services into the heart of FE.
At a session at the Association of Colleges Annual Conference and Exhibition, South Thames College Group shared the outcomes and impact of the NHS trailblazer project to embed child and adolescent mental health service (camhs) within college student support more
U.S. News & World Report Announces the 2025 Best Vehicle Brand and Best CPO Program Awards
WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 -- The U.S. News and World Report, a digital news and information company, issued the following news release on Nov. 21, 2024:
U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, today announced its 2025 Best Vehicle Brand and Best Certified Pre-Owned Program awards.
After evaluating 38 brands, U.S. News' Best Vehicle Brands recognizes industry-wide excellence across four key segments of the automotive market: cars, SUVs, trucks and luxury vehicl more
Dr. Rand Paul Forces Senate Vote to Stop Biden Administration from Making Ukraine's Debt America's
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21 -- Sen. Rand Paul, R-Kentucky, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) forced a vote in the U.S. Senate on his joint resolution of disapproval (S.J.Res.117) to stop the Biden Administration from making Ukraine's debt the responsibility of the American people.
Specifically, the joint resolution of disapproval would have prohibited the Biden Administration's cancellation of $4.65 billion of debt owed by Ukraine to U.S. taxpayers. The Biden Adm more
European Federation of Journalists: Anya Schiffrin - 'Collective Bargaining is the Only Way to Go' in the Age of AI
BRUSSELS, Belgium, Nov. 21 -- The European Federation of Journalists issued the following Q&A on Nov. 20, 2024, with Anya Schiffrin, director of the technology, media and communications specialization at the Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs:
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What does AI mean for the future of journalism and media viability? In its latest brief, UNESCO explored the key challenges of AI for journalism and the industry and included a series of recommendations for an ethical AI more
