Calif. Assemblyman Lackey Issues Public Comment to EPA
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- California Assemblyman Tom Lackey has issued a public comment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The comment was written on April 16, 2024, and posted on April 22, 2024.
The comment was on Docket No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574.
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To: Karl Simon, Director
Transportation Climate Division, Office of Transportation and Air Quality
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20460
RE: Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574 - OPPOSE
more
Calif. Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The California Department of Transportation has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Rachel Carpenter, Chief Safety Officer.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2023-0045.
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To: Shailen P. Bhatt, Administrator
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
U.S. Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590
RE: Doc more
Durham Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Durham Transportation Department, North Carolina, has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Sean C. Egan, Director of Transportation.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2023-0045-0001.
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To: The Honorable Shailen P. Bhatt
Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590-0001
SUBJECT: City more
EPA Releases Public Communication From California Air Resources Board
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released the following public communication dated April 22, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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To: The Honorable Michael S. Regan
Administrator
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; 1101-A
Washington, D.C. 20460
Docket ID No.: EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574
RE: Comments of the California Air Resources Board in Support of its Request for Authorization Pursuant to Clean Air Act Section 209(e)(2)(A) for Cali more
Findlay, Ohio, Mayor Muryn, Collaborators Issue Public Comment to EPA
WASHINGTON, April 25 (TNScapv) - Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn, Ohio, with collaborators has issued a public comment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 22, 2024.
The comment was on Docket No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574.
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To: The Honorable Michael Regan
Administrator U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20460
Re: California Air Resources Board (CARB) Clean Air Act Authorization R more
Ga. Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Georgia Department of Transportation has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Meg B. Pirkle, Chief Engineer.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2023-0045.
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To: Administrator Shailen P. Bhatt
Federal Highway Administration
U.S. Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Ave., SE
Washington, DC 20590
Re: FHWA-2023-0045, Notice o more
Ind. Child Services Dept. Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Indiana Department of Child Services has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Eric Miller, Director.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
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To: CBComments@acf.hhs.gov
RE: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking--Proposed Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) data elements related to American Indian and Alaska Nat more
Mashantucket Pequot Tribe Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, Connecticut, has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Jody A. Cummings, General Counsel.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
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To: Xavier Becerra
Secretary
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
*
Jeff Hild
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
Administration for Children an more
Mass. Division of Marine Fisheries Issues Public Comment to Interior Dept.
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of the Interior. The comment was posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Daniel McKiernan, Director.
The comment was on Docket No. BOEM-2024-0020.
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To: Karen Baker, Chief
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
Office of Renewable Energy Programs
45600 Woodland Road, Mail Stop VAM-OREP
Sterling, VA 20166
Docket No. BOEM-2024-0020: Notice of Intent to Prepa more
Mass. Office of Coastal Zone Management Issues Public Comment to Interior Dept.
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of the Interior. The comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Tyler Soleau, Acting Director.
The comment was on Docket No. BOEM-2024-0020.
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To: Karen Baker, Chief
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
Office of Renewable Energy Programs
45600 Woodland Road, Mail Stop VAM-OREP
Sterling, VA 20166
Re: Docket No more
N.H. Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The New Hampshire Department of Transportation has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by William Cass, Commissioner.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2024-0045.
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To: Docket Management Facility
United States Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590
(via Federal Register, www.regulations.gov)
Re: FH more
National Marine Fisheries Service Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office Issues Public Comment to Interior Dept.
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The National Marine Fisheries Service Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of the Interior. The comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Michael Pentony, Regional Administrator.
The comment was on Docket No. BOEM-2024-0020.
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To: Ms. Karen J. Baker
Chief, Office of Renewable Energy Programs
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
United States Department of more
Pima County Juvenile Court Center Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Pima County Juvenile Court Center, Tucson, Arizona, has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Jennifer Richardson.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
* * *
Ms. Jennifer Richardson, Assistant Director
Court, Children and Family Services Division
Pima County Juvenile Court Center
2225 E Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
Re: Notice of Prop more
USDA Office of Pest Management Policy Issues Public Comment to EPA
WASHINGTON, April 25 (TNScapv) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Pest Management Policy has issued a public comment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The comment was written on March 28, 2024, and posted on April 24, 2024.
The comment was signed by Kimberly Nesci, Director.
The comment was on Docket No. EPA-HQ-OPP-2023-0143.
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To: Madison Le, Director
Biopesticides and Pollution Prevention Division (7511M)
Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection more
Wabash, Ind., Mayor Long, Collaborators Issue Public Comment to EPA
WASHINGTON, April 25 (TNScapv) - Wabash Mayor Scott Long, Indiana, with collaborators has issued a public comment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 22, 2024.
The comment was on Docket No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574.
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To: The Honorable Michael Regan
Administrator U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20460
Re: California Air Resources Board (CARB) Clean Air Act Authorization Requ more
Wash. Children, Youth & Families Dept. Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Washington Department of Children, Youth and Families has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Vickie Ybarra, Assistant Secretary, Partnership, Prevention, and Services.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
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To: Ms. Aysha E. Schomburg, Associate Commissioner Children's Bureau
Administration for Children and F more
Wash. State Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Washington State Department of Transportation has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The 23-page comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Roger Millar, Secretary of Transportation.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2023-0045.
Here are excerpts:
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To: The Honorable Shailen Bhatt
Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, D.C. 20590
more
Wis. Children & Families Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by John Elliott, Administrator, Division of Safety and Permanence.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
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To: Ms. Aysha E. Schomburg, Associate Commissioner
Children's Bureau
Administration for Children and Families
United States Department of more
GOVERNMENT - Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service Issues Fact Sheet on Contributions to Individual Retirement Accounts
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following fact sheet (No. R48051) on April 25, 2024, by income security specialists Elizabeth A. Myers and John J. Topoleski.
Here are excerpts:
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Contributions to Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs): Fact Sheet
Contents
Background ... 1
Contributions to IRAs ... 2
Tables
Table 1. Contributions to Traditional IRAs ... 2
Table 2. Contributions to Roth IRAs ... 3
Contacts
Author Information ... 3
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Ba more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Department of State's Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10795) on April 25, 2024, by foreign affairs analyst Michael A. Weber.
Here are excerpts:
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Global Human Rights: The Department of State's Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
Introduction
The State Department's Country Reports on Human Rights Practices are an annual U.S. government account of human rights conditions in countries around the globe. The reports characterize cou more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Patent Listing in FDA's Orange Book
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12644) on April 25, 2024, by legislative attorney Kevin J. Hickey:
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Patent Listing in FDA's Orange Book
For over 40 years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has maintained a resource formally titled Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations. This frequently updated publication - now available as a searchable online database - is more commonly called more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Security Forces Vetting
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10575) on April 25, 2024, by social policy specialist Karen E. Lynch.
Here are excerpts:
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Global Human Rights: Security Forces Vetting ("Leahy Laws")
Introduction
The "Leahy Laws" prohibit U.S. assistance to foreign security force units when there is credible information that the unit has committed a "gross violation of human rights" (GVHR). Pursuant to the laws, before providin more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on TikTok & China's Digital Platforms
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12640) on April 25, 2024, by Asian trade and finance analyst Karen M. Sutter and international trade and finance Michael D. Sutherland.
Here are excerpts:
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TikTok and China's Digital Platforms: Issues for Congress
Congress and U.S. policymakers at the federal and state levels have taken steps to address their national security-related concerns about the People's Republic of China more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on FY2024 Military Construction Appropriations
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12238) on April 25, 2024, by defense infrastructure policy analyst Andrew Tilghman.
Here are excerpts:
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FY2024 Military Construction Appropriations: A Summary
On March 9, 2023, the Biden Administration submitted the FY2024 President's Budget Request (PBR) seeking $16.675 billion for U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) military construction (MILCON) and family housing programs. The req more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on FY2024 National Security Supplemental Funding
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12274) on April 25, 2024, by Cameron M. Keys, defense logistics and resource management policy analyst, and Luke A. Nicastro, defense infrastructure policy analyst.
Here are excerpts:
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FY2024 National Security Supplemental Funding: Defense Appropriations
Background
On October 20, 2023, the Biden Administration submitted to Congress a request for FY2024 emergency supplemental appro more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on Department of Labor's New Independent Contractor Rule
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11156) on April 25, 2024, by legislative attorney Jon O. Shimabukuro:
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Department of Labor's New Independent Contractor Rule
On January 10, 2024, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued a rule that identifies criteria for how it classifies whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor for purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the federal law that establish more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Change Healthcare Cyberattack & Response Considerations for Policymakers
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12330) on April 24, 2024, by cybersecurity policy specialist Chris Jaikaran:
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The Change Healthcare Cyberattack and Response Considerations for Policymakers
On February 21, 2024, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated disclosed that one of its companies' units - Change Healthcare - was experiencing a cyberattack. The BlackCat/ALPHV ransomware group - a Russia-linked cybercrime organization more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Ecuador's April 2024 Plebiscite on Security Measures
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12348) on April 24, 2024, by foreign affairs analyst Joshua Klein:
Here are excerpts:
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Ecuador's April 2024 Plebiscite on Security Measures: Implications for Congress
On April 21, 2024, Ecuador held a plebiscite on 11 proposed reforms that seek to address the country's ongoing security crisis. According to preliminary results released by Ecuador's electoral body, voters voted in fa more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Year-Round Sale of E15
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN10979) on April 23, 2024, by Kelsi Bracmort, natural resources and energy policy specialist:
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Year-Round Sale of E15
E15 - a fuel blend of up to 15% ethanol and 85% gasoline - generally cannot be sold during the summer driving season (June 1-September 15) because it does not meet the gasoline Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) requirements, which limit fuel volatility under the Clean Air Act more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on U.S. Repatriation Program for Citizens Returned From Abroad
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11484) on April 18, 2024, by social policy specialist Karen E. Lynch.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S. Repatriation Program for Citizens Returned from Abroad
Introduction
Section 1113 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Sec.1313) permanently authorizes the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide temporary aid to certain repatriated U.S. citizens and their depende more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on DOJ's Monopolization Case Against Apple
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11154) on April 23, 2024, by legislative attorney Jay B. Sykes:
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The DOJ's Monopolization Case Against Apple
On March 21, 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ), together with 15 states and the District of Columbia, filed a complaint in federal district court accusing Apple of monopolizing smartphone markets in violation of Section 2 of the Sherman Act. This Legal Sidebar prov more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on EMTALA Emergency Abortion Care Litigation Over Idaho's Abortion Restriction Heads to Supreme Court
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11151) on April 22, 2024, by legislative attorneys Wen W. Shen and Jennifer A. Staman:
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EMTALA Emergency Abortion Care Litigation Over Idaho's Abortion Restriction Heads to the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is set to hear oral argument in Moyle v. United States, a case about access to emergency abortion services. Specifically, the case concerns whether the Emergency Medical more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on Fourth Circuit Rules Parochial School's 501(c)(3) Tax Exemption Does Not Trigger Title IX Obligations
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11152) on April 23, 2024, by legislative attorney Jared P. Cole:
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Fourth Circuit Rules Parochial School's 501(c)(3) Tax Exemption Does Not Trigger Title IX Obligations
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) prohibits entities "receiving federal financial assistance" from discriminating based on sex in education programs and activities. The statute and impleme more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on Recent Appellate Decisions of Interest to Lawmakers, April 15 - April 21, 2024
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11153) on April 23, 2024, by deputy assistant director Michael John Garcia:
Here are excerpts:
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Congressional Court Watcher: Recent Appellate Decisions of Interest to Lawmakers (April 15-April 21, 2024)
The federal courts issue hundreds of decisions every week in cases involving diverse legal disputes. This Sidebar series selects decisions from the past week that may be of p more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on Takings Claims in DeVillier V. Texas Awash in Procedural Matters
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11150) on April 18, 2024, by legislative attorney Kristen Hite:
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Takings Claims in DeVillier v. Texas Awash in Procedural Matters
In April 2024, the United States Supreme Court issued its opinion in a DeVillier v. Texas, a case brought by landowners who sought compensation for property damage caused by the state. Several years ago, Texas constructed a three-foot wall along a more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on National & Defense Intelligence
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10525) on April 22, 2024, by intelligence and national security analyst Michael E. DeVine:
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Defense Primer: National and Defense Intelligence
The Intelligence Community (IC), comprising 18 statutory elements (50 U.S.C. Sec.3003(4)), is charged with providing insight into actual or potential threats to the U.S. homeland, the American people, and national interests at home and abroa more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on TikTok & China's Digital Platforms
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10525) on April 22, 2024, by Karen M. Sutter, Asian trade and finance specialist, and Michael D. Sutherland, international trade and finance analyst.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
TikTok and China's Digital Platforms: Issues for Congress
Congress and U.S. policymakers at the federal and state levels have taken steps to address their national security-related concerns about the People's Rep more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Biden Administration's First Student Loan Debt Relief Proposed Rule
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12350) on April 22, 2024, by social policy specialist Alexandra Hegji and legislative attorney Sean M. Stiff:
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The Biden Administration's First Student Loan Debt Relief Proposed Rule
On April 17, 2024, Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona (the Secretary) published in the Federal Register a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), describing when the Secretary may waive all or part of more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Escalation of Israel-Iran Conflict
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12347) on April 22, 2024.
The white paper is written by Middle Eastern affairs specialists Clayton Thomas, Jeremy M. Sharp and Jim Zanotti.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Escalation of the Israel-Iran Conflict
Overview
A series of strikes and counter-strikes between Israel and Iran in April 2024, including the first-ever direct attack on Israel from Iranian soil, represents a significant es more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on FY2024 Defense Appropriations - Summary of Funding
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12234) on April 22, 2024, by Cameron M. Keys, defense logistics and resource management policy analyst, and Brendan W. McGarry, defense budget specialist.
Here are excerpts:
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FY2024 Defense Appropriations: Summary of Funding
The annual Department of Defense Appropriations Act primarily funds U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) activities except for military construction and family hou more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on New Treatment in "Basel III Endgame" Proposal
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12231) on April 22, 2024, by macroeconomic policy specialist Marc Labonte.
Here are excerpts:
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Banks' Unrealized Losses, Part 1: New Treatment in the "Basel III Endgame" Proposal
On July 27, 2023, the federal banking regulators released a proposed rule that would amend bank capital rules for banks with over $100 billion in assets. The proposal would implement what is popularly call more
Calif. U.S. Attorney: San Gabriel Valley-Based Nursing Home Chain and Executives to Pay Over $7M to Settle COVID-Related False Claims Allegations
LOS ANGELES, California, April 27 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for Central District of California issued the following news release:
The United States and the State of California have reached a $7,084,000 civil settlement with Monrovia-based ReNew Health Group LLC, ReNew Health Consulting Services LLC, and two corporate executives for knowingly submitting false Medicare Part A claims for nursing home residents.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, to conserve hospital beds, the Centers for Medi more
Government Accountability Project: ORR Affirms Whistleblower Protections in Finalized Rule for Unaccompanied Children
WASHINGTON, April 27 -- The Government Accountability Project issued the following news release on April 26, 2024:
On April 23, 2024, the Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) announced its Foundational Rule to codify Flores protections for unaccompanied children. The final Rule establishes standards for the care and custody of noncitizen minors, which have largely been governed by the 1997 Flores Settlement Agreement.
The Foundational Rule includes provisions f more
Ind. U.S. Attorney: Former Social Security Administration Employee Facing Federal Charges for Fraudulent Telework, Emergency Childcare, and Medical Leave Schemes
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, April 27 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana issued the following news release:
Christopher Markham, 40, of Westfield, Indiana, has been charged with one count of wire fraud after allegedly defrauding the Social Security Administration (SSA).
According to court documents, Markham was employed by the SSA and assigned to an office based in Anderson, Indiana. Between February 13, 2019, and June 17, 2022, Markham allegedly engaged in a sch more
Mass. U.S. Attorney: Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Fraud Involving Small Business Administration Disaster Funds
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 27 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts issued the following news release on April 26, 2024:
A Florida man pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court in Boston to conspiring to use stolen identities to fraudulently obtain disaster loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and to launder the funds.
Hector Garcia, 52, of Ocala, Fla., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and three counts of wire more
Metro Board Names Michelle A. Zamarin Inspector General
WASHINGTON, April 27 -- The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority issued the following news release on April 25, 2024:
With unanimous Board support, Michelle A. Zamarin was formally appointed Metro's new Inspector General today. She will serve a three-year term. Ms. Zamarin will be sworn in at a special Board of Directors meeting in June and will join the Metro team on June 17, 2024.
Ms. Zamarin currently serves as Litigation Counsel in the Trial Unit of the Enforcement Division at th more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Leader of $50 Million Health Care Fraud Pleads Guilty
NEW YORK, April 27 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York issued the following news release on April 26, 2024:
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that MANISHKUMAR PATEL pled guilty today in connection with a $50 million health care fraud and kickback scheme involving the sale of fraudulent prescriptions for durable medical equipment, among other medical supplies, to suppliers, pharmacies, and laboratorie more
WASHINGTON, April 27 -- Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, introduced the "Consolidated Appropriations Act" on March 6, 2024. The text and summary of the resolution was released on April 23.
H. Res. 1061. A resolution providing for the concurrence by the House in the Senate amendment to H.R. 4366, with an amendment; considered and agreed to.
* * *
Resolved, That upon the adoption of this resolution the House shall be considered to have taken from the Speaker's table the bill, H.R. 4366, with the Sena more
U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts: Former Massachusetts State Police Lieutenant Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Fraudulent Overtime Scheme
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 27 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts issued the following news release on April 26, 2024:
Former Massachusetts State Police (MSP) Lieutenant Daniel J. Griffin was sentenced today in connection with an overtime scheme dating back to 2015.
Daniel Griffin, 60, of Belmont, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to five years in prison and three years of supervised release. Griffin was also ordered to pay restit more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Department of State's Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10795) on April 25, 2024, by foreign affairs analyst Michael A. Weber.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Global Human Rights: The Department of State's Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
Introduction
The State Department's Country Reports on Human Rights Practices are an annual U.S. government account of human rights conditions in countries around the globe. The reports characterize cou more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Security Forces Vetting
WASHINGTON, April 26 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10575) on April 25, 2024, by social policy specialist Karen E. Lynch.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Global Human Rights: Security Forces Vetting ("Leahy Laws")
Introduction
The "Leahy Laws" prohibit U.S. assistance to foreign security force units when there is credible information that the unit has committed a "gross violation of human rights" (GVHR). Pursuant to the laws, before providin more
EIB and Ukraine Reinforce Safeguards for EU Bank's Investments in the Country
BRUSSELS, Belgium, April 26 -- The European Investment Bank issued the following news release:
* * *
* The EIB and Ukraine are stepping up collaboration in the fight against fraud, corruption and other irregular practices that could affect EIB and EU financial interests in Ukraine.
* A new memorandum of understanding between the EIB and the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine also streamlines the exchange of information.
* The partnership highlights the importance of transparency and account more
Iowa U.S. Attorney: Iowa Nurse Practitioner Agrees to Pay Over $50,000 to Resolve Suit Alleging Fraudulent Durable Medical Equipment Prescriptions, Kickbacks
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, April 26 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa issued the following news release:
Ashley Brown, DNP, ARNP, from Des Moines, Iowa, has agreed to pay $52,560 to the United States to resolve allegations that she violated the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. Sec. 3729, by signing hundreds of medically unnecessary prescriptions for expensive orthotic braces in exchange for kickback payments of $20 per patient. The full claims against Brown are contained more
Nevada U.S. Attorney's Office and HUD Office of Inspector General Co-Host Roundtable on Sexual Harassment in Housing
LAS VEGAS, Nevada, April 26 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada issued the following news release on April 25, 2024:
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Nevada, the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Office of Inspector General hosted a roundtable yesterday for community members and organizations on Sexual Harassment in Housing.
"Tenants should feel safe and not live in fear of sexual haras more
Puerto Rico U.S. Attorney: Defendant Pleads Guilty for Environmental Crimes Committed in the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and Las Mareas Community of Salinas, Puerto Rico
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, April 26 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico issued the following news release on April 25, 2024:
Pedro Luis Bones Torres pleaded guilty today to environmental crimes related to the illegal construction and deposit of material into the wetlands and waters of the United States in the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (the "Jobos Estuarine Reserve") and Las Mareas community of Salinas, Puerto Rico.
According to court documents, st more
Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Durbin Presses Justice Department to Investigate Disproportionate Prosecution of Asylum Seekers From Muslim-Majority Countries
SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, April 26 -- Sen. Richard J. Durbin, D-Illinois, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a request to Attorney General Merrick Garland and Department of Justice Inspector General Michael Horowitz to investigate whether the Justice Department is or has been targeting migrants for prosecution based on their religion, national origin, or any other more
Durbin Presses Justice Department to Investigate Disproportionate Prosecution of Asylum Seekers from Muslim-Majority Countries
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- Sen. Richard J. Durbin, D-Illinois, issued the following news release:
SPRINGFIELD - U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a request to Attorney General Merrick Garland and Department of Justice Inspector General Michael Horowitz to investigate whether the Justice Department is or has been targeting migrants for prosecution based on their religion, national origin, or any other protected characteristic.
Public report more
Fla. U.S. Attorney: Laboratory Owners Charged in $36M COVID-19 Testing Fraud Scheme
MIAMI, Florida, April 25 -- The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Markenzy Lapointe, issued the following news release on April 24, 2024:
An indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of Florida charging three men for their alleged roles in an approximately $36 million health care fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering scheme that involved submitting false and fraudulent claims for COVID-19 testing to health care benefit programs, including Medicare and the Health more
House Education & the Workforce Committee Issues Report on A Stronger Workforce For America Act (Part 3 of 3)
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The House Education and the Workforce Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-444) on the A Stronger Workforce For America Act (H.R. 6655), which aims to amend and reauthorize the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The report was advanced by Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-North Carolina, on April 5, 2024.
* * *
(Continued from Part 2 of 3)
H.R. 6655 Section-by-Section Summary
Section 1. Short title/table of contents
The short title is "A Stronger Workforce for America A more
House Oversight & Accountability Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Cato Institute Director Bier
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The House Oversight and Accountability Subcommittee on National Security, the Border and Foreign Affairs issued the following testimony by David J. Bier, associate director of immigration studies at the Cato Institute, involving a hearing on April 16, 2024, entitled "How the Border Crisis Impacts Public Safety":
* * *
Chairman Grothman, Ranking Member Garcia, and distinguished members of the subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to testify.
My name is David Bier. more
Moody AFB: Sexual Assault Prevention & Response Hosts Real Talk Event
MOODY AFB, Georgia, April 25 -- The U.S. Air Force Moody Air Force Base (23rd Air Wing) issued the following news:
By Airman 1st Class Whitney Gillespie
In support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office hosted a SAPR Real Talk event at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, April 22, 2024.
"Beneath the Uniform" seminar taught healthy boundaries, emotional intelligence, trauma-informed care and how to build, maintain, and foster professional relationships. more
N.J. U.S. Attorney: Two Former Employees of New Jersey Mortgage Lending Business Charged for Roles in Mortgage Fraud Scheme
NEWARK, New Jersey, April 25 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey issued the following news release on April 24, 2024:
Two men have been charged in connection with their roles in a large-scale mortgage fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Christopher J. Gallo, 44, of Old Tappan, New Jersey, and Mehmet A. Elmas, 32, a U.S. citizen who resides in Turkey, are charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. They appea more
Reps. Foxx, Steel Warn of Considerable Fraud Within Student Financial Aid System
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-North Carolina, chairwoman of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, issued the following news release on April 24, 2024:
Today, Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) and Rep. Michelle Steel (R-CA) sent a letter to Department of Education Inspector General Sandra Bruce raising concerns about considerable fraud within the federal student financial aid system and demanding answers on the Department's efforts t more
Review of DOD Education Activity's Efforts to Report and Respond to Discriminatory Harassment at Schools - DODIG-2024-077
WASHINGTON, April 25 (TNSres) -- The U.S. Department of Defense's Office of the Inspector General issued the following news:
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General released its "Review of the DoD Education Activity's (DoDEA) Efforts to Report and Respond to Discriminatory Conduct at Schools."
The DoD OIG review found that DoDEA records did not consistently identify that a complaint related to discriminatory conduct. Additio more
Vt. U.S. Attorney: Doctor Indicted on Charges of Unlawfully Distributing Controlled Substances and Health Care Fraud
BURLINGTON, Vermont, April 25 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont issued the following news release on April 24, 2024:
A New Hampshire doctor made his initial appearance yesterday afternoon in federal court in Burlington and was arraigned on charges related to his alleged involvement in conspiracies to illegally distribute controlled substances and to commit health care fraud.
According to court documents, Adnan S. Khan, M.D., 48, of Grantham, New Hampshire orchestra more
DOD IG: 'Review of Army's Efforts to Prevent & Respond to Harassment of Soldiers'
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report (DODIG-2024-074) on April 17, 2024, entitled "Review of the Army's Efforts to Prevent and Respond to Harassment of Soldiers."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR PERSONNEL AND READINESS AUDITOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
SUBJECT: Review of the Army's Efforts to Prevent and Respond to Harassment of Soldiers (Report No. DODIG 2024 074)
This final report provides the result more
Fla. A.G. Moody Announces Arrest of Two Seminole County Residents for Medicaid Fraud
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, April 24 -- Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
Attorney General Ashley Moody's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, with the assistance of the Oviedo Police Department, Seminole County Sheriff's Office, Orlando Police Department and the United States Customs and Border Protection, today announced the arrest of Debora Behnke and Suman Bhattacharjee for a Medicaid fraud scheme that stole hundreds of thousands of dollars. Behnke more
Following Shocking Video, Ernst Demands Transparency at SBA
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
In a new video, a senior advisor to the chief of staff at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is shown claiming Administrator Guzman is actively participating in politically motivated travel with taxpayer dollars and hiding controversial small business policy decisions from members of Congress.
In light of the SBA's recent announcement that it finalized the agency's "first-ever voter registration agree more
Government Accountability Project: Public Statement Submitted Urging Congress to End the Abusive Use of Solitary Confinement in ICE Detention After 10 Years of Torture
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- The Government Accountability Project issued the following statement on April 23, 2024:
* * *
Yesterday, Government Accountability Project submitted a statement to Congress in support of the recent April 16, 2024 Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, "Legacy of Harm: Eliminating the Abuse of Solitary Confinement."
The hearing came more than ten years after our client, Ms. Ellen Gallagher began raising the alarm as an attorney for the Department of Homeland Security's O more
Grassley to the Pentagon: 'These kinds of purchases are a slap in the face to the taxpayer'
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is demanding accountability from the Pentagon after a watchdog report revealed employees may have misspent millions of dollars in taxpayer money during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Department of Defense (DOD) officials between March 2020 and January 2022 used Government Purchase Cards (GPCs) for 110,525 purchases, 43,396 of which the DOD Inspector General (IG) estimates employees more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Former Postal Manager Who Stole Drugs From the Mail Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun Charges
ROCHESTER, New York, April 24 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Ralph Minni, 54, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Suspended DEA Special Agent Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Taking Bribes
NEW YORK, April 24 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York issued the following news release:
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that JOHN COSTANZO JR. was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken to four years in prison for participating in a scheme in which his co-defendant, MANUEL RECIO, and others funneled tens of thousands of dollars to COSTANZO in exchange for COSTANZO providing sensiti more
Texas U.S. Attorney: Houstonian Charged With Filing Over $500,000 in Fraudulent Disaster Relief Loans
HOUSTON, Texas, April 24 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas issued the following news release:
A 26-year-old woman is set to appear in federal court for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Khalia Douglas is expected to make her initial appearance before U.S. District Judge Yvonne Ho at 2 p.m.
According to the criminal information filed April 16, from March 2020 until June 2021, Douglas allegedly submitted false and fr more
U.S. Embassy in Pakistan Ambassador Blome Issues Remarks at Inauguration Ceremony of Balochistan Police Training College
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, April 24 -- The U.S. Embassy in Pakistan issued the following remarks on April 23, 2024, by Ambassador Donald Blome at the inauguration ceremony of balochistan police training college:
* * *
AMBASSADOR BLOME: A-Salaam-o-alaykum and good afternoon. Thank you, Chief Minister and Inspector General, for your hospitality and your thoughtful remarks.
Today, we celebrate the inauguration of the new Police Training College campus in Quetta, a four-year, $5.35 million dollar part more
Warren Calls Out Ineffectiveness of VA's Privatized Disability Rating Exams, Pushes for Review of Private Contractors' Service Quality
WASHINGTON, April 24 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Veterans Face Delays and Denials of Benefits due to Private Contractors Inadequate Exams
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) calling out the failures of contracted veterans' compensation and pension (C&P) examinations, following disturbing reports of inadequate and unprofessional treatment of Massachusetts veterans at facilities in the state.
Sena more
Air Commandos Celebrate Past, Present and Future
HURLBURT FIELD, Florida, April 23 -- The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command issued the following news:
By Dawn Hart, Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs
Air Commandos - Past, Present and Future - were celebrated April 10-13, 2024, when the Air Force Special Operations Command Outstanding Airmen of the Year gathered here for two days of professional development, recognition, and celebration.
This year's events were held in conjunction with the Air Commando Association's more
BLM Revises Oil, Gas Leasing Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management has issued a rule, published in the Federal Register on April 23, 2024, entitled "Fluid Mineral Leases and Leasing Process."
The rule was issued by Steven H. Feldgus, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Land and Minerals Management.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
SUMMARY:
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is revising its oil and gas leasing regulations. Among other changes, the final rule implements provisio more
Brooklyn Law School: 2024 Fellows in Health Law & Policy and Family Law & Policy Present Research
BROOKLYN, New York, April 23 (TNSres) -- Brooklyn Law School issued the following news:
The wide-ranging findings of major Law School student research projects in health and family law and policy were presented to the Law School community, friends, and family members on April 19 by this year's Health Law & Policy Fellows (under the direction of Professor Karen Porter, Associate Dean for Academic Success and Student Success, and Executive Director of the Center for Health, Science and Public Pol more
Calif. U.S. Attorney: Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Possessing Heroin With Intent to Distribute in Bakersfield
FRESNO, California, April 23 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California issued the following news release on April 22, 2024:
Antonio Beltran-Chaidez, 54, a Mexican national, pleaded guilty today to possessing with intent to distribute heroin, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in January 2022, Beltran recruited his brother Jose Beltran-Chaidez, 66, a Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, to deliver approximately 2 pounds more
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Updates Procedures for Supervisory Designation Proceedings
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has issued a rule (12 CFR Part 1091), published in the Federal Register on April 23, 2024, entitled "Procedures for Supervisory Designation Proceedings."
The rule was issued by Rohit Chopra, Director.
COMMENT DEADLINE: May 23, 2024
* * *
ACTION:
Final rule; request for public comment.
SUMMARY:
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB or Bureau) is updating the CFPB's procedures for designating nonbank covered persons f more
Export-Import Bank of the United States Signs QUAD ECAs Memorandum of Cooperation at Berne Union
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Oslo, Norway -The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis officially signed a Memorandum of Cooperation alongside Manny Arabatzis, Chief Risk Officer of Export Finance Australia (EFA), Sristiraj Ambastha, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of ECGC India (ECGC), and Atsuo Kuroda, Chairman and CEO of Nippon Export and Investment In more
House Energy & Commerce Committee Issues Report on Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Reauthorization Act
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The House Energy and Commerce Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-448) on the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Reauthorization Act (H.R. 5202), which aims to reauthorize the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. The report was advanced by Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Washington, on April 5, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Purpose and Summary
H.R. 5202, the "Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Reauthorization Act," was introduced by Represent more
Mo. A.G. Bailey's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit Earns National Recognition for Effectiveness
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 23 -- Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey issued the following news release on April 22, 2024:
Today, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced that the U.S. Office of the Inspector General (OIG) awarded Missouri's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit with the Inspector General's Award for Excellence in Fighting Fraud, Waste and Abuse as a result of the Unit's performance in 2023. The Unit had especially high case outcomes for its size of 19 total staff, who w more
Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility: Report on Abuse of Indian Students Finally Surfaces
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility issued the following news release:
* * *
Lawsuit Pried Haskell School Probe Out of Bureau of Indian Education
** * *
An investigative report confirming allegations by current and former students and staff of sexual abuse, bullying, and absence of institutional control at a federally-run university for Native American students has finally seen the light of day. Obtained in litigation by Public Employees for Environmenta more
Senate Publishes Executive Communications on April 16 From President Biden
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Senate on April 16, 2024, published two executive communications from President Biden:
* * *
EC-4034. A communication from the President of the United States, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report of the continuation of the national emergency that was originally declared in Executive Order 13694 of April 1, 2015, with respect to significant malicious cyber-enabled activities; to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
EC-4068. A communication from the President of th more
Senate Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committee Issues Testimony From SBA Administrator Guzman
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee issued the following testimony by Small Business Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman involving a hearing on March 20, 2024, entitled "Oversight of the U.S. Small Business Administration and Review of the President's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Proposal":
* * *
Chair Shaheen, Ranking Member Ernst, and distinguished members of the committee, I appreciate the opportunity to join you today to discuss the U.S. Small Bus more
Senate Special Committee on Aging Issues Testimony From Social Security Administration Commissioner O'Malley
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- The Senate Special Committee on Aging issued the following testimony by Social Security Administration Commissioner Martin O'Malley involving a hearing on March 20, 2024, entitled "Keeping Our Promise to Older Adults and People With Disabilities: The Status of Social Security Today":
* * *
Chairman Casey, Ranking Member Braun, and Members of the committee: Thank you for inviting me to discuss the Social Security Administration's (SSA's) service delivery, customer experi more
Stansbury & Blumenthal Demand Supreme Court Accountability with New Legislation
WASHINGTON, April 23 -- Rep. Melanie Stansbury, D-New Mexico, issued the following news release:
Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01) and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), with Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08),and Ilhan Omar (MN-05) today introduced the Judicial Ethics Enforcement Act of 2024 creating the Office of the Inspector General to ensure accountability by justices in the Supreme Court of the United States who are failing to police themselves.
"Americans have lost trus more
Texas U.S. Attorney: Clinic Owner Sent to Prison for Orchestrating $15M Medicare Fraud and Kickback Scheme
HOUSTON, Texas, April 23 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas issued the following news release:
The owner of a Houston-area mental health clinic has been sentenced for conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Gwendolyn Gibbs, 72, pleaded guilty Dec. 3, 2021.
U.S. District Judge Charles R. Eskridge has now ordered Gibbs to serve 84 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release more
U.S. Attorney for Central District of California: Owner of Burbank-Based Blood Testing Laboratory Indicted for Allegedly Evading the Payment of Nearly $5.8M in Taxes
LOS ANGELES, California, April 23 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for Central District of California issued the following news release:
A federal grand jury today indicted a Burbank man who allegedly evaded the payment of nearly $5.8 million in federal taxes over several years by using a shill to illegally collect Medicare reimbursement payments made to his blood-testing company.
Armen Muradyan, 58, is charged via indictment with one count of tax evasion. He has been in federal custody sinc more
House Passes National Security Package
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. John Rutherford, R-Florida, issued the following statement on April 20, 2024:
* * *
Today, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement regarding the House passage of national security legislation:
"Protecting Americans and providing for our national defense is the fundamental duty of the federal government. As deadly and violent conflicts escalate on three world stages, I voted in support of the national security package passed today by th more
Register Today for Export-Import Bank of the United States' 2024 Annual Conference June 6 & 7 in Washington, D.C.
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) will host its 2024 Annual Conference beginning Thursday, June 6, 2024, at the Washington Hilton. The two-day, in-person event will feature leaders in business, finance, government, policy, and media and will showcase the critical role EXIM plays in bolstering trade and supporting U.S. jobs.
"We are eagerly counting more
Commerce IG: 'NTIA's Award Processes Leave Tribal Broadband Grants Vulnerable to Fraud & Duplication'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Commerce Inspector General issued the following report (No. OIG-24-019-A) on April 8, 2024, entitled "NTIA's Award Processes Leave Tribal Broadband Grants Vulnerable to Fraud and Duplication."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR: Alan Davidson, NTIA Administrator, National Telecommunications and Information Administration
FROM: Arthur L. Scott Jr., Assistant Inspector General for Audit and Evaluation
SUBJECT: NTIA's Award Processes Leave Tribal Broad more
DOD IG Issues Project Announcement on Evaluation of Efforts to Collect & Integrate Observations, Insights & Lessons Learned From Russia/Ukraine Conflict
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following project announcement (Project No. D2024-DEV0PD-0109.000) on April 15, 2024, regarding the evaluation of efforts to collect & integrate observations, insights & lessons learned From Russia/Ukraine conflict:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR COMMANDER, U.S. EUROPEAN COMMAND
COMMANDER, U.S. SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND
COMMANDER, U.S. TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
DIRECTOR, JOINT STAFF
DIRECTOR, DEFENSE INTELLIGENCE AGENCY
AUDITOR GENERAL, more
DOD IG Issues Project Announcement on External Peer Review of National Guard Bureau Internal Review Office
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following project announcement (Project No. D2024-DEV0SO-0115.000) on April 15, 2024, regarding external peer review of the National Guard Bureau Internal Review Office:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR CHIEF, NATIONAL GUARD BUREAU
SUBJECT: External Peer Review of the National Guard Bureau Internal Review Office (Project No. D2024-DEV0SO-0115.000)
The purpose of this memorandum is to notify you that we plan to begin the subject external pe more
EPA IG Issues Letter on External Peer Review Report
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The Environmental Protection Agency Inspector General issued the following letter on April 11, 2024, entitled "External Peer Review Report."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To: The Honorable Sean W. O'Donnell, Inspector General, Environmental Protection Agency
This required external peer review was conducted in accordance with the Council of Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE) Inspection and Evaluation Committee guidance as contained in the CIGIE Guide for more
EPA IG: 'Agency Needs to Improve Institutional Controls at American Creosote Works Superfund Site in Pensacola, Florida, to Protect Public Health & IIJA-Funded Remediation'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Environmental Protection Agency Inspector General issued the following 39-page report (No. 24-E-0032) on April 15, 2024, entitled "The Agency Needs to Improve Institutional Controls at the American Creosote Works Superfund Site in Pensacola, Florida, to Protect Public Health and IIJA-Funded Remediation."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
At A Glance
Why We Did This Evaluation
To accomplish this objective:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspec more
EPA IG: 'Region 7 Did Not Effectively Engage With the Community Surrounding Findett Corp. Superfund Site'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Environmental Protection Agency Inspector General issued the following 41-page report (No. 24-E-0033) on April 17, 2024, entitled "Region 7 Did Not Effectively Engage with the Community Surrounding the Findett Corp. Superfund Site."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Why We Did This Evaluation
To accomplish this objective:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General conducted this evaluation to determine whether the EPA adhered to federal more
Fed IG: 'Results of Security Control Testing of Board's Embargo Application'
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The Office of the Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau issued the following memorandum (No. 2024-IT-B-011R) on April 10, 2024, entitled "Results of Security Control Testing of the Board's Embargo Application."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM
TO: Michelle A. Smith, Assistant to the Board, Chief of Staff, and Director, Division of Board Members, Board of Governors of the Federal Reser more
GSA IG Issues Memorandum on PBS Southeast Sunbelt Region Job Order Construction Contracts
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The General Services Administration Inspector General issued the following memorandum (No. A230067-1) on April 19, 2024, entitled "PBS Southeast Sunbelt Region Job Order Construction Contracts."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
TO: JEFFREY SMITH, REGIONAL COMMISSIONER, PUBLIC BUILDINGS SERVICE (4P)
FROM: NICHOLAS PAINTER, REGIONAL INSPECTOR GENERAL FOR AUDITING, SOUTHEAST SUNBELT REGION AUDIT OFFICE (JA-4)
SUBJECT: Assessment of a Hotline Complaint: PBS Southeast Sunbelt Reg more
HHS IG Audit: 'Alabama Claimed Federal Medicaid Reimbursement for Millions of Dollars in Targeted Case Management Services That Did Not Comply With Federal & State Requirements'
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The Health and Human Services Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A-07-22-03253) on April 1, 2024, entitled "Alabama Claimed Federal Medicaid Reimbursement for Millions of Dollars in Targeted Case Management Services That Did Not Comply With Federal and State Requirements" filed under the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Report in Brief
Why OIG Did This Audit
Targeted Case Management (TCM) services assist speci more
Homeland Security IG: 'Results of an Unannounced Inspection of ICE's Krome North Service Processing Center in Miami, Fla.'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Homeland Security Inspector General issued the following report (No. OIG-24-21) on April 16, 2024, entitled "Results of an Unannounced Inspection of ICE's Krome North Service Processing Center in Miami, Florida."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR: Patrick J. Lechleitner, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director, U.S. Immigration and Customs and Enforcement
FROM: Joseph V. Cuffari, Ph.D., Inspector General
SUBJECT: Results of an Unannou more
HUD IG: 'Risk Assessments of Charge Card Programs'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Department of Housing and Urban Development Inspector General issued the following report (No. 2024-FO-0005) on March 29, 2024, entitled "Risk Assessments of Charge Card Programs."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To: Vinay Singh, Chief Financial Officer, F; Jimmy Fleming-Scott, Chief Procurement Officer, N
From: Kilah S. White, Assistant Inspector General for Audit, Office of Inspector General, GA
Subject: HUD Charge Card Programs Risk Assessments
Attached is more
Justice IG Audit: 'Superfund Activities in Environment & Natural Resources Division for FY 2021 & 2022'
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The Justice Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 24-060) on April 16, 2024, entitled "Superfund Activities in the Environment and Natural Resources Division for Fiscal 2021 and 2022."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Objective
The objective of this audit was to determine if the Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) provided an equitable distribution of total labor costs, Other Direct Costs, and indirect costs to Superfund cas more
NRC IG Audit: 'Safety Inspections of Class II Research & Test Reactors'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Nuclear Regulatory Commission Inspector General issued the following report (No. OIG-24-A-07) on April 11, 2024, entitled "Safety Inspections of Class II Research and Test Reactors."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM
TO: Raymond V. Furstenau, Acting Executive Director for Operations
FROM: Hruta Virkar, CPA /RA/, Assistant Inspector General for Audits
SUBJECT: AUDIT OF THE U.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION'S SAFETY INSPECTIONS OF CLASS II RESEARCH A more
NRC IG Audit: 'Security Oversight of Category 1 & Category 2 Quantities of Radioactive Material'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Nuclear Regulatory Commission Inspector General issued the following report (No. OIG-24-A-06) on March 25, 2024, entitled "Security Oversight of Category 1 and Category 2 Quantities of Radioactive Material."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM
TO: Raymond V. Furstenau, Acting Executive Director for Operations
FROM: Hruta Virkar, CPA /RA/, Assistant Inspector General for Audits
SUBJECT: AUDIT OF THE U.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION'S SECURITY OVERSIG more
NRC IG: 'Special Inquiry Into the Appearance of a Conflict of Interest Involving Members of Advisory Committee on Medical Uses of Isotopes'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Nuclear Regulatory Commission Inspector General issued the following report (No. I2200187) on March 26, 2024, entitled "Special Inquiry into the Appearance of a Conflict of Interest Involving Members of the Advisory Committee on the Medical Uses of Isotopes."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM
TO: Christopher T. Hanson, Chair
FROM: Robert J. Feitel, Inspector General
SUBJECT: SPECIAL INQUIRY INTO THE APPEARANCE OF A CONFLICT OF INTEREST INVOLVING MEMBE more
Postal Service IG: 'Impacts Associated With Local Transportation Optimization in Richmond, Virginia'
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The U.S. Postal Service Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 23-161-1-R24) on April 12, 2024, entitled "Impacts Associated with Local Transportation Optimization in Richmond, Virginia."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Background
The Postal Service deployed a major change to operations within the Richmond, VA, area on October 28, 2023, when it implemented its Local Transportation Optimization initiative. The initiative is designed to reduce the overall num more
Postal Service IG: 'Scanning Compliance & Oversight of Dock Operations'
WASHINGTON, April 21 -- The U.S. Postal Service Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 23-164-R24) on April 12, 2024, entitled "Scanning Compliance and Oversight of Dock Operations."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Background
The U.S. Postal Service is working to leverage technology to improve visibility and tracking of mail and packages in near real time for the Postal Service, its customers, and mailers. As it moves through the surface transportation network, mail and packages a more
SBA IG: 'Implementation of Small Business Innovation Research & Small Business Technology Transfer Extension Act of 2022'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Small Business Administration Inspector General issued the following report (No. 24-14) on April 19, 2024, entitled "Implementation of the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Extension Act of 2022."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM
To: Isabella Casillas Guzman, Administrator
From: Hannibal "Mike" Ware, Inspector General
Subject: SBA's Implementation of the SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022 (Report 24-14)
The more
Treasury IG for Tax Administration: 'Criminal Investigation Had Success With Ghost Employers, While Civil Enforcement Efforts Can Be Improved'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration issued the following audit report (No. 2024-300-019) on April 12, 2024, entitled "Criminal Investigation Had Success With Ghost Employers, While Civil Enforcement Efforts Can Be Improved."
Here are excerpts:
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Highlights
Why TIGTA Did This Audit
This audit was initiated to review the IRS's efforts for identifying employers that issue Forms W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, to their employees but do not s more
Treasury IG for Tax Administration: 'FY 2024 Mandatory Review of Compliance With Freedom of Information Act'
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration issued the following audit report (No. 2024-100-023) on April 11, 2024, entitled "Fiscal 2024 Mandatory Review of Compliance With the Freedom of Information Act."
Here are excerpts:
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Highlights
Why TIGTA Did This Audit
The overall objective of this audit was to determine whether the IRS improperly withheld information requested by taxpayers in writing based on Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) exem more
VA IG: Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain, Mich.
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Veterans Affairs Inspector General issued the following oversight report (No. 23-00111-119) on April 3, 2024, entitled "Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center in Iron Mountain, Michigan."
Here are excerpts:
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Report Overview
This Office of Inspector General (OIG) Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection Program (CHIP) report provides a focused evaluation of the quality of care delivered in the inpatient and outpatient more
VA IG: Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the VA Maine Healthcare System in Augusta
WASHINGTON, April 21 (TNSrep) -- The Veterans Affairs Inspector General issued the following oversight report (No. 23-00109-121) on April 3, 2024, entitled "Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the VA Maine Healthcare System in Augusta."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Report Overview
This Office of Inspector General (OIG) Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection Program (CHIP) report provides a focused evaluation of the quality of care delivered in the inpatient and outpatient settings of the VA Main more
WASHINGTON, April 20 -- Rep. Stephanie Bice, R-Oklahoma, issued the following statement:
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Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement after voting to support supplemental security funding:
"Russia, Iran, and China are seeking to form a new axis of evil, threatening the safety and security of the free world. The national security supplemental provides resources needed to counter the threats we face in each theater. Israel is facing an unprecedented threat from Iran, who just last we more
Rep. Lamborn Supports Passage of Supplemental Security Funding Package
WASHINGTON, April 20 -- Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colorado, issued the following news release:
Today, Congressman Doug Lamborn and his House colleagues voted to pass four bills to aid our Allies. These votes included H.R. 8034 - Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, H.R. 8035 - Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, H.R. 8036 - Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, and H.R. 8038 - 21st Century Peace through Strength Act.
"I am pleased to support the government more
Review of the Army's Efforts to Prevent and Respond to Harassment of Soldiers - DODIG-2024-074
WASHINGTON, April 17 (TNSres) -- The U.S. Department of Defense's Office of the Inspector General issued the following news:
Today, Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced the release of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General's "Review of the Army's Efforts to Prevent and Respond to Harassment of Soldiers."
The objective of this review was to determine the effectiveness of the Army's actions to prevent and respond to harassment of Soldiers, including sexual harassment, bull more
Journalism Tipoffs from TNS
American Academy of Arts & Sciences Welcomes Five Boston University Members
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 27 -- Boston University issued the following news on April 26, 2024:
By Doug Most
A group of Boston University faculty and alumni--alongside actor George Clooney, Apple CEO Tim Cook, retired NBA star Grant Hill, and other global leaders in the arts and sciences, business, philanthropy, and public affairs--are the newest members of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, announced on Wednesday.
The BU-affiliated members among the 250 elected to the eminent organ more
Ashland University: Student, Faculty Accomplishments Awarded at Academic Honors Convocation April 21
ASHLAND, Ohio, April 27 -- Ashland University issued the following news:
About 75 Ashland University students were recognized individually for their academic achievement and two faculty members were honored for their outstanding work at the annual Academic Honors Convocation, held April 21 at the Jack and Deb Miller Chapel.
The purpose of the convocation is to celebrate academic achievement, promote community and recognize sophomores, juniors and seniors with Outstanding Student Awards. The cr more
CalState-Fresno: Fresnoland and SJV Water Take Top Honors in 2024 Gruner Awards
FRESNO, California, April 27 -- California State University's Fresno Campus issued the following news release:
Fresnoland and Bakersfield's SJV Water website took top honors on April 23 in the 36th annual George F. Gruner Awards journalism competition for news publications in the central San Joaquin Valley.
Honors went to several newspapers as well as digital news sources, which became eligible for Gruner recognition just this year. Winning entries across categories included light-hearted feat more
International Press Institute: Togo Elections - Authorities Must Allow Media to Work Freely
VIENNA, Austria, April 27 -- The International Press Institute issued the following news on April 25, 2024:
Togo authorities must allow the media to freely and safely cover the April 29 parliamentary and regional elections, the International Press Institute (IPI) said today.
There is growing pressure on journalists in Togo ahead of the vote. This month, authorities arrested and expelled French journalist Thomas Dietrich. Additionally, the country's media regulatory body suspended accreditation more
OU Student Named Pulitzer Reporting Fellow
NORMAN, Oklahoma, April 27 (TNSres) -- The University of Oklahoma issued the following news release:
Maddy Keyes, a senior from the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication, has been chosen as a Pulitzer Center Reporting Fellow to explore the ecological grief caused by climate change for the Inuit in Greenland.
"I'm very excited to have the opportunity to work alongside and learn from those at the Pulitzer Center, which continues to do incredible and impactful work," Keyes said. "C more
Reporters Without Borders: Mexico Has Made No Progress on Protecting Journalists During AMLO's Six Years as President
PARIS, France, April 27 -- Reporters Without Borders issued the following news:
Under outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Mexico has continued to be the country with the most murders of journalists - at least 37 since he became president. In the run-up to Mexico's general elections on 2 June, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) urges all of the candidates to finally commit to concrete measures to protect journalists and combat impunity.
With at least 37 journalists killed and five disa more
University of Arkansas-Little Rock: Lee Selected for Prestigious Science Communicators Fellowship
LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas, April 27 (TNSres) -- The University of Arkansas issued the following news:
By Angelita Faller
A University of Arkansas at Little Rock professor has been selected for an academic fellowship that supports early-career researchers studying science communication related to water issues.
Dr. Kyungsun Lee, assistant professor of geography and coordinator of the geography minor at UA Little Rock, has been named to the second cohort of the SciComm Identities Projects Fellowship more
Zoe Boissel Appointed Communications and Engagement Director of RSF
PARIS, France, April 27 -- Reporters Without Borders issued the following news:
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) announces the appointment of Zoe Boissel as its communications and engagement director. After holding similar positions in the social and solidarity economy in France, she will now lead communications and community engagement at RSF.
Reporting to senior management, Zoe Boissel's mission is to define, manage and implement RSF's communication strategy with the aim of increasing RSF's v more