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B-Roll, Video, Audio, Photos & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Holds a Briefing to Update New Yorkers on Extreme Weather
ALBANY, New York, Jan. 25 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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B-Roll, Video, Audio, Photos & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Holds a Briefing to Update New Yorkers on Extreme Weather
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Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the state's response as a massive winter storm system begins to bring heavy snowfall to most of the state. The State Emergency Operations Center has been activated and will remain staffed through the storm to coordinate State response efforts and respond to local requests for assistance. Following the Governor's declaration
... Show Full Article
ALBANY, New York, Jan. 25 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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B-Roll, Video, Audio, Photos & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Holds a Briefing to Update New Yorkers on Extreme Weather
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Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the state's response as a massive winter storm system begins to bring heavy snowfall to most of the state. The State Emergency Operations Center has been activated and will remain staffed through the storm to coordinate State response efforts and respond to local requests for assistance. Following the Governor's declarationof a State of Emergency and activation of 100 members of the New York National Guard on Friday, new travel restrictions for commercial vehicles have been implemented. All commercial vehicles will be restricted to traveling only in the right travel lane on all state roads, including the New York State Thruway. A travel ban for Long Combination Tandem Vehicles is also in effect on the New York State Thruway. Updated forecasts show snow totals in areas of the upper Hudson Valley, Mohawk Valley, Capital Region and North Country could reach up to two feet, while the Catskills could see more than two feet. Snow in New York City and on Long Island will turn to sleet Sunday night before returning to snow Monday.
B-ROLL of the Governor at the State's Emergency Operations Center is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).
VIDEO : The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).
AUDIO: The Governor's remarks are available in audio form here.
PHOTOS: The Governor's Flickr page will post photos of the event here.
A rush transcript of the Governor's remarks is available below:
Good morning everyone. I came by here to our Emergency Operations Center to first of all to thank the individuals who come day and night -working 24/7 to keep New Yorkers safe. I wanted to first acknowledge all of the first responders and those who are in rooms like this across the State, but also out in our communities and on the streets. We sleep safer at night and we are safer during a storm like this because of their hard work.
This is certainly the coldest weather we've seen, the coldest winter storm we've seen in years -and truly New York State is locked into a grip here. A sort of an Arctic siege has taken over our State and many other States across the nation.
The snowstorm we're expecting is now underway, it is brutal -it is bone chilling -and it is dangerous. Snow began falling already on Long Island, in New York City early this morning. Snow is now falling in Albany and everywhere in between. As I mentioned, we're not alone. It's hitting the entire State and 30 States as well this weekend.
We are anticipating the longest cold stretch and the highest snow totals the State has seen in several years. The longest cold stretch and the highest snow totals in years. Already records in the State have been shattered. Shocking reports out of Watertown -The actual temperature in Watertown was -34 and -49 in Copenhagen. That is not the real feel -that is not the wind chill -that is the actual temperature. We've warned this to be dangerously cold and it has been unrelenting. Friday temperatures across the State were as low as -40 to -20 and felt as cold as -30 to -50.
But I know New Yorkers know how to deal with the weather, and again I've been at this Emergency Operations Center to see how impressive our operations are. I always want to take a chance to thank the plow drivers, the hospital workers, and all of the emergency and essential personnel who are there. As you know, I declared a State of Emergency on Friday and since then to enhance our response, we've deployed over 100 National Guard members -many of them are concentrated Downstate at this time to go where they're needed -and also to particularly help on Long Island and the Hudson Valley and New York City.
We have also taken some steps to make our roads safer. Banning long tandem tractor trailers on the Thruway as of 6:00 AM today. Commercial vehicles are right now restricted to the right lane only on State roads. And two counties have full travel bans in place -Dutchess and Ulster -and additional travel advisories and restrictions are all over the State.
We have deployed additional resources. We have additional DOT personnel who have been all over the State. I mentioned the other day, we have countless snowplows and lifts and all the equipment that's necessary. We have plenty of salt, we've been stocking up on salt in anticipation that our plow drivers would need this to keep the roads clear.
And for parents in New York City, about an hour ago the Mayor announced that schools will move to remote learning tomorrow. So to the snow forecast, everyone across this state should prepare for a solid day and a half of this weather, and the heaviest snow will still be coming this afternoon and through the night.
And this will continue through most of the day tomorrow, but we expect it to end by midday. So here's some of the totals. We expect 8 to 12 inches in the North Country. 12 to 18 in the Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, Central New York, and even parts of the Finger Lakes -including Rochester and Western New York.
So we've had some changes in the recommendations from National Weather Service but I also want to make a point here. A number of years ago, we created the State Weather Risk Communication Center. This is the first in the nation, state of the art facility, which I've toured many times -that gives us daily weather briefs. And they're willing to go out and forecast across the State snowfalls and temperatures even out through the next weekend, which is further than the National Weather Service does at this time. What that means is we have earlier information about longer term impacts that we can prepare for -deploy the resources, the personnel and the equipment.
So I find this once again to be critically important in our preparations and our response to storms like this. We're continuing to see a lot of snow about 1 to 2 inches an hour in New York City. In the Long Island area, they're expecting to see up to 8 to 12 inches of snow, which is something that's more challenging to handle in that area than other parts of our State.
We're also transitioning to sleet tonight, sleet is dangerous. Sleet can also create icy hazardous conditions on the roads and sidewalks. And we've not seen -New York City as I have mentioned is going to see a foot of snow -We've not had that level of snow since 2021, so it's been a number of years.
The good news for us and the only good news is that the winds will not be a major factor here. This is often what we worry the most about is power lines coming down. The wind having squalls on the throughway and the visibility goes to zero, and you have multi-vehicle collisions. We're not expecting that but there could be isolated squalls in certain areas. We're still not out of the woods on that, but it's not going to be a statewide high wind event either.
There are parts of Long Island and New York City that could gust up to 30 to 35 miles an hour, so this is a factor as well. We're not expecting widespread power outages, as I mentioned. But that being said, it's always better to be prepared in advance than we have 5,500 linemen and women ready to restore power if necessary. And Con-Ed has brought in mutual additional assistance as well.
So what about traveling, those who are going to be on the roads? Number one, if you can be off the roads, that is the best advice. Stay off the roads, they're going to be slick, icy, snow covered. And if you can stay home with these extremely cold temperatures and hazardous roads, you and your family will be much safer.
So tomorrow's commute for those who are working, and we encourage other employers to allow their workers if possible to work remotely. We know there's many who cannot. And again, I thank our nurses and hospital personnel and medical personnel across the State who know they have to be out there -our first responders and others. But if you can avoid travel we'd want to have that happen as well. As I mentioned, State employees are working remotely on Monday.
We also want to make sure the plows can get through, Commissioner Dominguez knows this. And I've been a passenger in a plow and the biggest concern they have is their own visibility and making sure that they can do their jobs without worrying about the other vehicles around them. So do this to help not just yourself stay safe on the roads, but also our plow drivers.
And the good news for Downstate those who rely on public transportation. The MTA is planning on maintaining a weekend schedule, trains and buses will continue to run. Again, this is always subject to change. We'll be focused on snow removal on platforms and near stations, but we're concerned about keeping people safe as they get to their jobs.
We also have a number of special elections scheduled for Tuesday, February 3rd. And so the ones that are in New York City -in that area -we're going to be suspending early voting for today and tomorrow. So we want to make sure people mark their calendars if they want to vote early. We will be adding extra hours to help compensate for that.
So New Yorkers stay home -hunker down -root against the Patriots. That's up to you, that's a personal decision. But also sign up for text alerts so you could be up to date with all the information we want to share with you. 333-111, after you type in your county and your borough, you'll get everything you need to know, and monitor all the local forecasts and warnings.
A couple of things as a pro in shoveling snow myself, make sure that you -- I'll give you a quick demonstration. Do not bend over to shovel, you bend down your knees. You want to bend down so you can protect your back. Also you don't have to have a high amount of snow on the shovel. I'll give you a demonstration outside if you want, but neighbors of mine have had heart attacks from shoveling too much snow. It's better to take multiple smaller bites at it. Lift smaller amounts of snow, toss it aside, but do not try to go for the big massive shovel full of snow. Because regardless of your health, this could be a cause of a heart attack or cardiac attack as well.
Also if you're indoors and you will be indoors, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in case you have to use indoor space heaters. Dress in layers, cover every part of your body. I was outside yesterday, I had my face wrapped up in a scarf, ears covered and hand warmers in the gloves. There are ways to protect if you must be out there.
I've mentioned before how important it is to make sure your vehicle can save your life if necessary. Again, you must consider the worst case scenarios when you're going out. You do not know that what you think is just a safe ride to the grocery store or an appointment can result in you going off the road and having to rely on your vehicle if you're stuck in a snowbank. We've talked about having extra phone charges, make sure your phone is charged. Blankets, water, food, anything you think you would need to protect you.
And also protecting your pipes from freezing. Another pro tip just takes a long towel from the bathroom, roll it up and stick it in front of the door. It can stop a lot of wind from coming in or use the plastic sheets that you put on the windows with a blow dryer -it's kind of a fun thing to do.
This is also a good time to be a good neighbor, check on your elderly neighbors. I have shoveled the sidewalks of my neighbors when I was growing up. It's what we always did -our neighbors next door. Also watch out for pets, I know many of them have to go outside, but keep an eye on them and don't let them stay outside too long.
The bottom line is this, we're not through it. This is the beginning, we've been talking about this for days. Different parts of our State are being affected differently at different times, but this is a Statewide event. It is unrelenting, we don't expect any relief from this forecast at this time.
And all of our State agencies and I just had a chance to thank them a few minutes ago. They're working tirelessly around the clock and we're going to continue being flexible. As I mentioned we have had some of the coldest nights of the entire year and also some of them record lows. I want to make sure that we are protecting everybody. Be smart, exercise caution, and look out for each other.
So let me turn it over to Acting Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Terry O'Leary, to go through our other State preparations.
Contact the Governor's Press Office
Contact us by phone:
Albany: (518) 474-8418
New York City: (212) 681-4640
Contact us by email:
Press.Office@exec.ny.gov
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Original text here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/b-roll-video-audio-photos-rush-transcript-governor-hochul-holds-briefing-update-new-yorkers
Audio & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Is a Guest on NewsChannel 9's 'Newsmakers' With Andrew Donovan
ALBANY, New York, Jan. 25 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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Audio & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Is a Guest on NewsChannel 9's 'Newsmakers' With Andrew Donovan
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On January 23, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on NewsChannel 9's "Newsmakers" with Andrew Donovan.
AUDIO: The Governor's remarks are available in audio form here.
A rush transcript of the Governor's remarks is available below:
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Governor, thanks so much for fitting us into such a busy day. It's becoming a tradition for us in January.
Governor Hochul: Yes, it
... Show Full Article
ALBANY, New York, Jan. 25 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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Audio & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Is a Guest on NewsChannel 9's 'Newsmakers' With Andrew Donovan
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On January 23, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on NewsChannel 9's "Newsmakers" with Andrew Donovan.
AUDIO: The Governor's remarks are available in audio form here.
A rush transcript of the Governor's remarks is available below:
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Governor, thanks so much for fitting us into such a busy day. It's becoming a tradition for us in January.
Governor Hochul: Yes, itis.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: I appreciate that. What does this groundbreaking day for Micron mean to you?
Governor Hochul: It's emotional. We first pursued this when I was literally Governor of New York for just a couple of days. We heard about this opportunity and I had memories of the executive team from Micron meeting me in Albany -and I heard all about this, and I said, "We have to make this happen."
And then during a snowstorm in January in 2022, I flew in a plane and they said, "You shouldn't be flying."
I said, "But he's going to go back to Idaho. I've got to talk to the CEO now and convince him to stay in New York."
So I was so committed to getting this done. And, so, those conversations led to us when Joe Biden and Chuck Schumer were able to pass the CHIPS and Science Act in that spring. Literally two days later, I said, "That doesn't help New York. That helps other states as well. It makes it kind of a level playing field. How do I give New York State an advantage?"
And we put in the extra money and allowed them to benefit from that. And that's -I literally just walked off my speech, and Sanjay, the CEO, said, "You know we wouldn't be here without you."
And that, for me, that just meant everything as someone who went to school in Syracuse, lived during the decline of manufacturing and industry in Upstate New York -from Syracuse to Buffalo, where I come from. And for him to say that and have the largest private sector investment in American history.
And he said it wouldn't have happened without me. I tell you, this is what it's all about: Creating all those good paying jobs and creating opportunities for those especially young people growing up in the city of Syracuse. And I know one of the reasons they cherish coming here is because of the diverse workforce we could offer them; the diversity of backgrounds, and talent, and ethnicity and races.
People just wanted to be able to be part of something, and Micron's culture is one to celebrate that. And, so, it's a very big day for us.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: You mentioned the snow when you were coming to meet with Sanjay for the first time. I can't help but think of the snow that everyone had to battle today to do shovels in the ground.
Governor Hochul: Nobody cared. Nobody cared. I was so happy. They're not in a place like Florida where you don't have to shovel. They're in New York. We can handle the snow. It's not a big deal for us.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: I did hear a couple of instances today where it sounds like things got political from some of the remarks, specifically the Commerce Secretary. And I'm just wondering, how did this become political and how do you feel about that?
Governor Hochul: I don't know. He just came out and declared this was Trump country. I don't think there was any applause, I'm not sure. But it just set a strange tone there because we're celebrating a company, right? I think he said a couple of other things like they moved it from being a $50 billion investment, the Trump administration, to $100 billion. It was always -when Joe Biden stood on that stage, announced it was $100 billion. So, I don't know what that was all about, but it doesn't matter.
Regardless of party, this is moving forward. And that was the most important thing to me.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: It was $100 billion. I was also in the room that day.
Governor Hochul: It was $100 billion.
[...]
Governor Hochul: I don't know why they said they increased it to $100 [billion] from $50 [billion]. So, I think the fact checkers will have a good time with that speech, I'm not going to worry about it.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Let's talk about how Micron perhaps got its way into your State of the State a little bit. You've expanded your nuclear power plans, majorly. You had planned for one gigawatt to go somewhere in Upstate New York. You're now increasing it to five.
Governor Hochul: Yes.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: How's Oswego doing in the running? Because people in Oswego already have this capability and want more.
Governor Hochul: I know they do. And we're very excited about the opportunities for a community in upstate, and we'll be letting those candidates know soon. But certainly, Oswego has the experience, the workforce, and we have four nuclear reactors, three sites, in that area.
And what people don't realize -this is the oldest nuclear reactor in the nation has been functioning without any problem. But the new reactors we're talking about, they're not your grandfather's nuclear energy. The facilities are so safe, so technologically advanced that we feel very comfortable about that.
So we talk about powering Micron, but also all the supply chain that wants to come around it. Because I don't want companies to come here and be a drain on our grid. I don't want New Yorkers to have to pay more. And that's why we talk about these data centers, which don't create jobs. That's a different dynamic than Micron.
They don't create jobs and they suck our energy and make costs higher for New Yorkers. And I said, "No. If you're going to come here -you want to come here -you're going to have to pay and, ultimately, bring your own energy source."
So, that's why this works out. I'm going to continue expanding our capacity. And I announced that in my State of the State. But also I want to protect New Yorkers' wallets by not having them pay extra costs to subsidize other companies like the data centers.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: You've been pretty consistent on not putting your thumb on the scale. Just to the people in Oswego, they just think they are the best candidate.
Governor Hochul: I don't, they are very good candidates.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Okay.
Governor Hochul: All I can say right now.
[...]
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: I know you were also watching the environmental review through the Micron process very closely, and it sounds like, perhaps, some of that had inspiration in your State of the State. You're looking at the environmental review process, specifically as it pertains to housing.
Governor Hochul: Right. That's really important. In Clay and this whole region, we have the opportunity to really grow the population to get it back to what it used to be in the 70s and 60s when this area was more prosperous.
But you have to put in more housing, all kinds -mixed-use, market rate. I even liked the modular homes that I visited here in Syracuse, which you can't tell the difference, and they can be put up in six months and they're so much cheaper than a house that's made the traditional way.
But part of it is whenever there's an important project, like many homes in a subdivision, there's always community opposition by at least a couple of people. And they stand on using these environmental laws as a barrier to progress. And that has happened all over our state. Even -I'm talking about when a community wants it to happen.
The neglected officials on their Town Board, for example, want it to happen, but you can lose two or three years and a developer's going to say, "It's just not worth it."
I can't have that be the answer anymore. I'm going to supercharge our efforts to build more housing because I have to figure out how to house 50,000 more people that are either coming here or people that are earning more money can get a bigger house perhaps.
I want to stimulate the economy for those who've always been residents of Central New York as well.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Is that growth for Micron happening quickly enough there?
Governor Hochul: Yes. Yes. They're already training people. And we've done everything. We've invested $500 million in workforce training for these industries at the state level as well.
So I'm finding -I promised I'd find the talent. He said, "I'll need 9,000 engineers." But not just engineers -60 percent of the workers that Micron needs don't even need a four year degree. So we're aggressively going after the local individuals in schools and in the community and saying, "Your future can change by getting the training you need to step into the jobs at Micron," and the other supply chain companies and customers that I think will find their way here as well.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Shifting topics within your State of the State. The State of the State version that I was able to read seemed to omit any type of mention of prison reform. I think a lot of people are hoping you don't omit that from your plans.
The HALT Committee has submitted its recommendations about the HALT Act. Where does that stand as this legislative session begins?
Governor Hochul: Okay, this is not the only vehicle for prison reform, as you know after the horrible murder of Robert Brooks. And I just met his son and his father just a few days ago in my office.
And so right -immediately I insisted that there be cameras everywhere. That we worked to change the culture; that the people were involved in this be prosecuted for their crimes and remove them immediately. So I took steps instantaneously after that horrible tragedy.
Then I just signed, in December, a very major package of reforms that the Legislature had passed, that we worked on -so those will make a difference. And so there's not just one place to make changes. We have the whole session, we have the Budget.
And, so, our State of the State is confined to really just top issues that we can address there. But there's a whole book of reforms plus the legislative session. So we're always looking to make it a better experience for, not just the incarcerated community, but the people who go to work every day.
And it's hard, hard work, those correction officers do. And I'm trying to recruit more to take some of the burden off of them so they don't have to put in the overtime. I need to build up that workforce, and I think once we can do that, that'd be a major reform right there.
The stress would drop dramatically when people can just work a normal shift and not be exhausted after working multiple shifts as well. That was part of the problem we had last year.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Have you reviewed any of the HALT Committee's suggestions and are you committed to some adjustments to the HALT Act?
Governor Hochul: We're looking at everything, and those recommendations were important to me and I'm looking forward to talking to the Legislative leaders about that.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: The governor's race -how are you feeling about reelection?
Governor Hochul: Really good. Really good.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Yeah.
Governor Hochul: We're working hard. We have an incredible record focusing on public safety and affordability, and even initiatives like taking cell phones out of classrooms. Something like that could have happened for years and no one had the courage to stand up and take on the special interest that didn't want us to, and we did it.
Now we're going after other drivers of costs for people. Why are car insurance rates the highest in the nation here in New York? We're coming after that and it's taken on some powerful interests as well.
But New Yorkers deserve a fighter. I've got the record of accomplishment, but I've got the fight in me to go the distance. And there's a lot of things coming out of Washington as well. I have to stand up and fight the Trump administration, literally daily, to restore money for child care -$3.8 billion they took out of our child care funding and family support systems.
And I can't tell you the number of times we're having to go to court to say, "That money was allocated by Congress. It's supposed to come here."
So, I'm up for the fight. I'm a scrappy street fighter from Buffalo, and I say bring it on. It's like getting ready for my Super Bowl. I always get up for the big game.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Speaking of Super Bowl.
Governor Hochul: Yes.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Pizza. You were just able to visit a former employee of yours, the Varsity, for a special recognition. What was that visit like?
Governor Hochul: 100th anniversary of the Varsity Pizzeria in the college campus. I worked there as a student and I know how to make pizzas, but it was fun to be there.
And they also, we worked together to make something really special, which was a pizza that says "Go Bills" spelled out by the pepperoni. So very creative people here in Syracuse, but it was a great homecoming.
Anytime I'm back in Syracuse, I feel a great connection to my past. But after today's groundbreaking, I also feel a great connection to an incredible future that's awaiting this area.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: A great point to end on. Governor, thanks for the time today.
Governor Hochul: All right, thank you. Take care.
Andrew Donovan, WSYR: Appreciate it.
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Original text here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/audio-rush-transcript-governor-hochul-guest-newschannel-9s-newsmakers-andrew-donovan-1
NCDHHS Launches "I Gave Birth" Campaign in Honor of Maternal Health Day, Highlights Resources for Women and Families
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Jan. 24 -- The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services issued the following news release:
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NCDHHS Launches "I Gave Birth" Campaign in Honor of Maternal Health Day, Highlights Resources for Women and Families
In recognition of Maternal Health Awareness Day, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is launching the "I Gave Birth" campaign to support better birth outcomes for mothers in North Carolina in the weeks after childbirth. "I Gave Birth" collaborates with 48 participating hospitals and providers to improve postpartum care during
... Show Full Article
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Jan. 24 -- The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services issued the following news release:
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NCDHHS Launches "I Gave Birth" Campaign in Honor of Maternal Health Day, Highlights Resources for Women and Families
In recognition of Maternal Health Awareness Day, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is launching the "I Gave Birth" campaign to support better birth outcomes for mothers in North Carolina in the weeks after childbirth. "I Gave Birth" collaborates with 48 participating hospitals and providers to improve postpartum care duringthe "fourth trimester," which is the first 6-8 weeks after childbirth. Each new mother receives a bracelet to serve as a visual reminder for the mother, her family and medical providers for vigilant monitoring of the mother's physical and mental well-being.
"Giving birth is a joyous time, but it is also a major event that impacts a woman's physical and emotional health," said Dr. Kelly Kimple, NCDHHS Director of the Division of Public Health. "Recovering from childbirth, both physically and mentally, is a challenge. It is also very common to feel overwhelmed, sad, anxious or depressed after childbirth. If you are feeling this way, you are not alone, and help is available. Talk to your provider and get the care you deserve."
Regardless of if it is their first pregnancy or subsequent pregnancies, symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, high fever, heavy bleeding, or severe swelling within 42 days after birth are not normal postpartum signs and women should seek care. Postpartum depression most commonly occurs four to eight weeks after birth, but symptoms can appear as soon as 24 hours after birth or months later. A recent study showed that one in five women reported experiencing a perinatal mental health condition.
Approximately two out of three pregnancy-related deaths occur during the first 42 days postpartum -- the first half of the "fourth trimester." Based on the North Carolina Maternal Mortality Review Report for 2018 - 2020 data, 87% of NC maternal deaths were deemed preventable.
"I Gave Birth" is a hospital-based initiative to increase awareness and improve recognition of post-birth warning signs. It is part of the North Carolina Maternal Health Innovation Program, which encourages providers to listen more carefully when women and new mothers speak up about mental health symptoms.
"Many mothers of newborns are so focused on taking care of their baby they often fail to seek medical attention for symptoms they think are normal after birth," said Tara Owens-Shuler, Maternal Branch Head of the NCDHHS Women, Infant, and Community Wellness Section. "That's why it is so important that providers and family members are educated about post birth warning signs, which includes postpartum anxiety and depression. Most pregnancy-related deaths are preventable."
In addition to the "I Gave Birth Initiative," there are many national and state-level resources available to support new moms. The free and confidential national Maternal Mental Health Hotline is available 24/7 through the federal Health Resources and Services Administration Maternal and Child Health Bureau. Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA to speak or chat with trained professionals ready to offer support, give information and refer you to local providers if needed.
NC Maternal Mental Health MATTERS provides free real-time telephone consultation services to health care providers serving pregnant and postpartum patients. Providers can call the line to discuss case-specific questions with a perinatal psychiatrist, which builds the provider's capacity to treat the mental health needs of their patients. NC MATTERS is a collaboration between NCDHHS, the UNC School of Medicine, and Duke University, which allows providers to discuss case-specific questions with a perinatal mental health expert. This builds the provider's capacity to treat the mental health needs of their patients. Health care professionals can call 919-681-2909 for this free resource. More resources including toolkits, webinars and screening tools are available on the NC MATTERS website as well as resources and tips for new moms.
Breastfeeding is another challenge that can leave new mothers feeling frustrated. The www.breastfeednc.com website has resources for new mothers and fathers to help them overcome any issues or fears they may have around breastfeeding and to understand the benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and new baby.
Bringing a new baby home can be both joyful and challenging. NCDHHS is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all North Carolinians, including women and families. For more resources you can visit the NCDHHS website dedicated to improving maternal health care.
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Original text here: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2026/01/23/ncdhhs-launches-i-gave-birth-campaign-honor-maternal-health-day-highlights-resources-women-and
Mo. A.G. Hanaway Charges St. Louis Woman In Pet Health Not-For-Profit Scheme
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, Jan. 24 -- Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway issued the following news release on Jan. 23, 2026:
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Attorney General Hanaway Charges St. Louis Woman In Pet Health Not-For-Profit Scheme
Today, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced that her Office has filed felony charges against Constance K. Kruse, for allegedly defrauding consumers in connection with a pet health not-for-profit scheme.
"The injury or illness of a family pet can be devastating," said Attorney General Hanaway. "It is unacceptable that a scammer would prey on Missourians and
... Show Full Article
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, Jan. 24 -- Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway issued the following news release on Jan. 23, 2026:
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Attorney General Hanaway Charges St. Louis Woman In Pet Health Not-For-Profit Scheme
Today, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced that her Office has filed felony charges against Constance K. Kruse, for allegedly defrauding consumers in connection with a pet health not-for-profit scheme.
"The injury or illness of a family pet can be devastating," said Attorney General Hanaway. "It is unacceptable that a scammer would prey on Missourians andsteal charity money intended for pet health care. Our Office will continue working to root out charity scams in Missouri and hold perpetrators accountable."
Kruse faces one count of Deceptive Business Practice for defrauding and financially exploiting donors of Saving St. Louis Pets, a Missouri not-for-profit corporation formed to help provide medical care to pets in the care of owners experiencing financial need. Kruse, who had been an Officer of the charity, solicited funds in the charity's name and continued to do so even when the legitimate corporation was dissolved in December, 2023.
The charges allege that between October 2021 and May 2024, Kruse falsely solicited funds from the citizens of the City of St. Louis to help provide medical or veterinary care to pets in need within 150 miles of Saving St. Louis Pets' corporate offices in the City, and then used more than $100,000 of the donations for her own personal expenses.
Kruse left the State of Missouri during the Attorney General's investigation into her financial conduct with regard to the charity's funds the people of St. Louis donated to help sickly pets. She was arrested in Sandoval County, New Mexico and is being held there pending extradition back to St. Louis to stand trial on the deceptive business practice felony charge.
The Attorney General reminds the public that the charges against Kruse are merely allegations. As in all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Consumers who believe they may have been scammed by a charity or business should file a complaint with the Attorney General's Office by calling the Consumer Protection hotline at (800) 392-8222 or by submitting a complaint online at ago.mo.gov.
Just as the Consumer Protection Section exemplifies the Attorney General's Office's commitment to safeguarding Missourians, the Office is proud to be home to some of the state's most skilled consumer-protection attorneys and investigators. These dedicated professionals investigate and prosecute deceptive and fraudulent practices, working tirelessly to hold bad actors accountable and secure justice for victims. Attorneys interested in joining this tradition of excellence and public service are encouraged to explore current opportunities at https://ago.mo.gov/about-us/job-opportunities/.
The full indictment can be read here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/ago.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=55bd24fd8f5e7d3dc227d1072&id=8fcac8fe19&e=db9c683b19__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!FcRG1v-JjU-8NePxBc0OFzwRTkp30b7xPnxGF3bzVzYdOLAasEOLl7eNrV2TwMrmSMkap8S9VXNATBwJLDusjqJS$).
The booking photo for Kruse can be found here (https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/ago.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=55bd24fd8f5e7d3dc227d1072&id=838e004d96&e=db9c683b19__;!!EErPFA7f--AJOw!FcRG1v-JjU-8NePxBc0OFzwRTkp30b7xPnxGF3bzVzYdOLAasEOLl7eNrV2TwMrmSMkap8S9VXNATBwJLKoNGGmy$).
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Original text here: https://ago.mo.gov/attorney-general-hanaway-charges-st-louis-woman-in-pet-health-not-for-profit-scheme/
Md. A.G. Brown Demands Action From XAI Over Grok's Creation of Nonconsensual Sexual Content
BALTIMORE, Maryland, Jan. 24 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on Jan. 23, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Demands Action from xAI over Grok's Creation of Nonconsensual Sexual Content
Attorney General Anthony G. Brown and a bipartisan group of 33 attorneys general today demanded that xAI, the company that owns both the X social media platform and the AI chatbot Grok, take additional action to prevent its AI chatbot, Grok, from generating nonconsensual intimate images and child sexual abuse material
Over the past weeks, Grok has made this content
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BALTIMORE, Maryland, Jan. 24 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on Jan. 23, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Demands Action from xAI over Grok's Creation of Nonconsensual Sexual Content
Attorney General Anthony G. Brown and a bipartisan group of 33 attorneys general today demanded that xAI, the company that owns both the X social media platform and the AI chatbot Grok, take additional action to prevent its AI chatbot, Grok, from generating nonconsensual intimate images and child sexual abuse material
Over the past weeks, Grok has made this contentpublicly available at the click of a button, driving harassment and exploitation that deprives people of control over how their bodies and likenesses are portrayed and endangers women and children
"With the push of a few buttons, Grok allows anyone to create fake sexual images of real people without their consent," said Attorney General Brown. "We're demanding xAI immediately stop offering this exploitative tool that violates Marylanders' dignity, safety, and control over their own bodies."
Users have repeatedly prompted Grok to "undress" women and children and to place them in sexualized contexts without consent. In some cases, Grok has generated images depicting children in minimal clothing or sexual situations. The attorneys general note that xAI has marketed Grok's permissive content generation as a selling point and warn that "the ability to create nonconsensual intimate images appears to be a feature, not a bug."
Although xAI has recently implemented limited measures that appear to have reduced the volume of this content, the attorneys general are demanding assurances that these safeguards are effective, durable, and consistently enforced. They are also urging the company to honor requests to remove this content - a requirement that will soon be mandated under federal law when the Take It Down Act becomes enforceable in May 2026.
As the chief law enforcement officers of their states, the attorneys general raise serious concerns that Grok's outputs may violate state and federal civil and criminal laws governing nonconsensual intimate images and the creation and distribution of child sexual abuse material. Maryland law criminalizes the creation and distribution of nonconsensual sexual imagery and child sexual abuse materials. Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law Sec.Sec. 11-207 - 208.1 and Sec. 3-809
The attorneys general are demanding that xAI share how it intends to:
* Ensure that Grok is no longer capable of producing nonconsensual intimate images or child sexual abuse material;
* Eliminate such content that has already been produced;
* Take action against users who have generated this content; and
* Grant X users control over whether their content can be edited by Grok.
Attorney General Brown is sending this letter (https://oag.maryland.gov/News/Documents/pdfs/Letter%20to%20xAI_FINAL.pdf) alongside the Attorneys General of North Carolina, Utah, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, American Samoa, Arizona, Colorado, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
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INFODOC: https://oag.maryland.gov/News/Documents/pdfs/Letter%20to%20xAI_FINAL.pdf
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Original text here: https://oag.maryland.gov/News/pages/Attorney-General-Brown-Demands-Action-from-xAI-over-Grok%e2%80%99s-Creation-of-Nonconsensual-Sexual-Content.aspx
Del. Gov. Meyer Nominates Lisa Collison as New Bank Commissioner
DOVER, Delaware, Jan. 24 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on Jan. 23, 2026:
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Governor Matt Meyer Nominates Lisa Collison as New Bank Commissioner
Governor Matt Meyer today announced the nomination of Lisa Collison to serve as Delaware's next State Bank Commissioner. Collison brings three decades of experience safeguarding Delaware's financial system and a deep understanding of the institutions that power the state's economy. Delaware stands at a defining moment for the financial services industry, as innovation, digital payment, and evolving consumer expectations
... Show Full Article
DOVER, Delaware, Jan. 24 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on Jan. 23, 2026:
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Governor Matt Meyer Nominates Lisa Collison as New Bank Commissioner
Governor Matt Meyer today announced the nomination of Lisa Collison to serve as Delaware's next State Bank Commissioner. Collison brings three decades of experience safeguarding Delaware's financial system and a deep understanding of the institutions that power the state's economy. Delaware stands at a defining moment for the financial services industry, as innovation, digital payment, and evolving consumer expectationsreshape how financial institutions operate nationwide. At this inflection point, leadership matters more than ever.
"Delaware's financial strength depends on strong, fair, and forward-looking oversight," Governor Matt Meyer said. "Lisa Collison brings experience, integrity, and a clear understanding of how to protect consumers while positioning Delaware to lead again in financial services. I'm proud to nominate her as our next State Bank Commissioner."
The State Bank Commissioner plays a central role in ensuring the strength, stability, and integrity of Delaware's financial system. The Commissioner administers and enforces the State Banking Code under Title 5 of the Delaware Code and oversees all financial institutions chartered or licensed in Delaware. This includes state-chartered banks and trust companies, as well as a wide range of nonbank financial institutions such as consumer finance companies, mortgage lenders and originators, money transmitters, motor vehicle sales finance companies, and check cashers.
At a time when the financial sector is evolving rapidly, the Commissioner ensures institutions are rigorously examined, remain compliant with state and federal laws, and operate in ways that protects consumers and the broader economy. The office also administers Delaware's bank franchise tax, responds to consumer inquiries and complaints, and promotes financial education to help Delawareans make informed financial decisions.
If confirmed, Collison will advance the Office of the State Bank Commissioner's mission to pair innovation and growth with accountability and consumer protection, reinforcing Delaware's reputation as a credible, well-regulated, and competitive home for financial services in the modern economy.
The nomination will be sent to the Delaware Senate for confirmation.
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ABOUT THE NOMINEELisa Collison headshot
Lisa Collison is a lifelong Delawarean with an accounting background and an extensive career at the Delaware Office of the State Bank Commissioner (OSBC). Over the past 30 years, she has served in a wide range of regulatory and supervisory roles, including Bank Examiner, Chief Bank Examiner, Review Examiner, and Senior Deputy Bank Commissioner.
Throughout her career, Collison has played a central role in supervising financial institutions, enforcing the State Banking Code, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. Her experience spans both traditional banking institutions and nonbank financial entities, giving her a comprehensive understanding of Delaware's diverse financial landscape.
Collison resides in Harrington, Delaware, with her husband, Philip. She is the proud mother of two daughters, Kaylee and Maycee.
For any questions, please email govcomm@delaware.gov.
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Original text here: https://news.delaware.gov/2026/01/23/governor-matt-meyer-nominates-lisa-collison-as-new-bank-commissioner/
Attorney General Paxton Issues Opinion Confirming the Comptroller Office's Full Authority to Stop Taxpayer Funds from Going to Schools Illegally Tied to Terrorists or Foreign Adversaries
AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 24 -- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Paxton Issues Opinion Confirming the Comptroller Office's Full Authority to Stop Taxpayer Funds from Going to Schools Illegally Tied to Terrorists or Foreign Adversaries
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Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued an opinion in response to a request regarding the authority of the Texas Education Freedom Accounts ("TEFA") administrator, Kelly Hancock. The opinion raises the question of the administrator's authority to determine eligibility of certain private schools to participate
... Show Full Article
AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 24 -- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Paxton Issues Opinion Confirming the Comptroller Office's Full Authority to Stop Taxpayer Funds from Going to Schools Illegally Tied to Terrorists or Foreign Adversaries
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Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued an opinion in response to a request regarding the authority of the Texas Education Freedom Accounts ("TEFA") administrator, Kelly Hancock. The opinion raises the question of the administrator's authority to determine eligibility of certain private schools to participatein the TEFA program.
The requester notes: "The people of Texas deserve the highest assurance that no taxpayer dollars will be used, directly or indirectly, to support institutions with ties to a foreign terrorist organization, a transnational criminal network, or any adversarial foreign government." This is without question. To that end, Attorney General Paxton has now issued a legal opinion confirming the full, exclusive statutory authority of the Comptroller's Office to prohibit schools from TEFA participation under the "other relevant law[s]" provision of Senate Bill 2. For example, any educational institution violating laws barring it from providing material support to a designated terrorist organization would be ineligible for the program under the "other relevant law[s]" provision.
"Let me be crystal clear: Texans' tax dollars should never fund Islamic terrorists or America's enemies," said Attorney General Paxton. "The Comptroller's Office has always possessed exclusive authority under the TEFA framework to stop any school illegally tied to terrorists or foreign adversaries from accessing taxpayer dollars, and this opinion affirms that authority. There is no question that the Comptroller's Office is statutorily charged with ensuring that our school choice program is protected from abuse by terrorists or the Chinese Communist Party."
Attorney General Paxton stands ready to vigorously defend legal challenges to any lawful determination by the Comptroller's Office aimed at preventing terrorists or our Nation's enemies from abusing the TEFA program. Public reporting has also noted that the approval for eligibility for certain Christian and private schools that are unrelated to this opinion has been delayed. The statutory authority to make such determinations, including on the timing of the approval process, rests solely with the Comptroller's Office-not the Office of the Attorney General.
To read the full opinion, click here.
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Original text here: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-paxton-issues-opinion-confirming-comptroller-offices-full-authority-stop-taxpayer
