Va. A.G. Miyares Urges SCOTUS to Uphold Divest-Or-Ban Law Against TikTok
RICHMOND, Virginia, Dec. 28 -- Virginia Attorney General Jason S. Miyares issued the following news release on Dec. 27, 2024:
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares today filed an amicus brief with the United States Supreme Court supporting a federal statute addressing the national security and data privacy threats posed by TikTok. The Court is scheduled to hear arguments on the case on January 10, 2025.
In April 2024, the bipartisan Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Appl more
FTC, Maryland Attorney General Act to Stop Lindsay Auto from Falsely Touting Low Prices and Overcharging Consumers for Unwanted Fees and Add-Ons
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 -- The Federal Trade Commission issued the following news release:
The Federal Trade Commission and Maryland Attorney General have charged Lindsay Automotive Group with systematically deceiving and overcharging car-buying consumers for years, costing them millions of dollars in junk fees and unwanted add-on products.
The agencies' complaint also alleges that Lindsay advertised prices it refused to honor and falsely claimed consumers needed to obtain financing through Lindsa more
Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee Issues Testimony From Postmaster General DeJoy (Part 3 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee released the following written testimony by Louis DeJoy, postmaster general and CEO of the U.S. Postal Service, from a Dec. 5, 2024, hearing entitled "Oversight of the United States Postal Service: Understanding Proposed Service Changes":
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(Continued from Part 2 of 3)
Growth and cost reduction are at the heart of the DFA plan. Simply put, the DFA plan is not about contraction or only cost reduction. Th more
SouthCoast Wind Project Receives Key Approvals for Offshore Massachusetts and Rhode Island
WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (TNSFR) -- The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has announced the joint record of decision (ROD) for the SouthCoast Wind Project, marking a significant step toward the construction of an offshore wind energy facility off the coast of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The project, submitted by SouthCoast Wind Energy LLC, now has the green light from multiple agencies, including the Department of the Interior (DOI), the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), and the U. more
Va. Gov. Youngkin Announces 81 Special Events & Festivals to Receive Public-Private Marketing Funds to Drive Visitation in 2025
RICHMOND, Virginia, Dec. 27 -- Gov. Glenn Youngkin, R-Virginia, issued the following news release on Dec. 26, 2024:
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Program will generate more than $5.6M in marketing and event production initiatives and support more than 324 tourism-oriented businesses and partners
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Governor Glenn Youngkin announced today that more than $812,139 in matching grant funds will be awarded to 81 special events and festivals as part of the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC)'s Special Events & Festivals more
South Dakota unemployment rate 1.9 percent in November 2024
WASHINGTON, Dec. 26 (TNSres) -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics issued the following document from Economics Daily:
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In November 2024, South Dakota had the lowest unemployment rate, 1.9 percent. Eight other states (North Dakota, Vermont, New Hampshire, Nebraska, Hawaii, Wisconsin, Connecticut, and Virginia) also had unemployment rates that were 3.0 percent or lower.
Nevada had the highest unemployment rate, 5.7 percent, followed by the District of Columbia, 5.6 more
Va. Gov. Youngkin Announces 9 New Designated Virginia Main Street Communities
RICHMOND, Virginia, Dec. 24 -- Gov. Glenn Youngkin, R-Virginia, issued the following news release on Dec. 23, 2024:
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Designated Main Streets can access resources to advance downtown revitalization and business development
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Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced nine new organizations for the Advancing Virginia Main Street Designation. The newly designated communities will receive intensive services to help strengthen their downtowns, including market analysis, marketplace developm more
GOVERNMENT - Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Legislation - Engrossment, Enrollment & Presentation
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12855) on Dec. 18, 2024, by American national government specialist R. Eric Petersen:
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Legislation: Engrossment, Enrollment, and Presentation
Engrossment, enrollment, and presentation of legislation are components of the legislative process that attest to the accuracy of bill texts, confirm House and Senate action, and confirm delivery of the bills to the President for rev more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Messages, Petitions, Communications & Memorials to Congress
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12854) on Dec. 18, 2024, by American national government R. Eric Petersen:
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Messages, Petitions, Communications, and Memorials to Congress
The Constitution and the rules of the House of Representatives and Senate identify various means that citizens, other levels of government, and coordinate branches of the national government may use to communicate formally with either or more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on North Korea's Nuclear Weapons & Missile Programs
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10472) on Dec. 18, 2024, by acting section research manager Mary Beth D. Nikitin:
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North Korea's Nuclear Weapons and Missile Programs
Overview
North Korea continues to advance its nuclear weapons and missile programs despite U.N. Security Council sanctions and high-level diplomatic efforts. The country's ballistic missile testing, military parades, and policy statements s more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on Fourth Circuit Holds That Certain Medicaid & State-Funded Health Plans Discriminate by Refusing to Cover Treatments for Gender Dysphoria
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. IF12854) on Dec. 18, 2024, by American national government R. Eric Petersen:
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Fourth Circuit Holds That Certain Medicaid and State-Funded Health Plans Discriminate by Refusing to Cover Treatments for Gender Dysphoria
Several states have considered the extent to which transgender individuals should have access to certain medical treatments to address a discordance between more
Congressional Research Service: 'Overview of Federal Tax System in 2024' (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48313) on Dec. 18, 2024, entitled "Overview of the Federal Tax System in 2024" by Public Finance specialists Donald J. Marples and Brendan McDermott.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
This report describes the federal tax structure and system in effect for 2024. The report also provides selected statistics on the tax system as a whole. Historically, the largest component of the federal tax sys more
Congressional Research Service: 'Overview of Federal Tax System in 2024' (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48313) on Dec. 18, 2024, entitled "Overview of the Federal Tax System in 2024:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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Tax Statistics
Taxes as a Share of the Economy
Federal revenues are derived from several sources and have collectively ranged from roughly one-fifth to one-seventh the size of the economy. Figure 3 displays total federal tax revenues and major sources of federal tax revenue as more
Congressional Research Service Issues Fact Sheet on Proposals to Amend U.S. Constitution
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following fact sheet (No. R47959) on Dec. 17, 2024, by research librarian Ben Leubsdorf.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
This report provides brief background information and resources for locating historical, recent, and current proposed and unratified amendments to the Constitution of the United States. It does not focus on successful amendments to the Constitution. It is also not intended to provide detailed le more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Federal Contract Set-Asides for Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12852) on Dec. 17, 2024, by R. Corinne Blackford, small business and economic development policy analyst.
Here are excerpts:
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Federal Contract Set-Asides for Small Businesses
Introduction
Provisions of the Small Business Act authorize or, in some cases, require federal agencies to provide small businesses a preference when making a contract award. Preferences for small bu more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11451) on Dec. 17, 2024, by legislative attorney Andreas Kuersten:
Here are excerpts:
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Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA)
Introduction
Congress enacted the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) in 1978. FISA provides a statutory framework for government agencies to obtain authorization to gather foreign intelligence by means of (1) electronic surveillance more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Hospital Ownership
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12848) on Dec. 12, 2024, by health care financing analyst Marco A. Villagrana:
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Hospital Ownership: Medicare Sources of Information
Congress's understanding of hospital ownership is crucial in exercising its legislative and oversight role with respect to health care costs, quality, and access. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) - the agency that administers more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Legislating on Cybersecurity
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12851) on Dec. 17, 2024, by Cybersecurity Policy specialist Chris Jaikaran.
Here are excerpts:
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Legislating on Cybersecurity
Introduction
Cybersecurity considerations for policymakers are broader than those for managing cybersecurity at an organization. When thinking strategically about how to legislate for cybersecurity, lawmakers may consider educating, recruiting, and more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Made in China 2025 & Industrial Policies
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10964) on Dec. 12, 2024, by Asian trade and finance specialist Karen M. Sutter.
Here are excerpts:
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Made in China 2025 and Industrial Policies: Issues for Congress
The People's Republic of China (PRC or China) aims to gain a global economic and technology leadership position through a range of state-led industrial and related science and technology (S&T) policies. These p more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Mali
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10116) on Dec. 17, 2024, by African affairs specialist Alexis Arieff.
Here are excerpts:
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Mali
Once seen as a rising democracy in Africa, Mali has become an epicenter of conflicts and instability since 2011. A military junta seized power in 2020, Mali's second coup in nine years. Coups in Burkina Faso and Niger followed. Insurgents affiliated with Al Qaeda and the Islamic more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Navy DDG(X) Next-Generation Destroyer Program
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11679) on Dec. 12, 2024, by naval affairs specialist Ronald O'Rourke.
Here are excerpts:
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Navy DDG(X) Next-Generation Destroyer Program: Background and Issues for Congress
Introduction
The Navy's DDG(X) program envisages procuring a class of next-generation guided-missile destroyers (DDGs) to replace the Navy's Ticonderoga (CG-47) class Aegis cruisers and older Arleigh Bu more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Navy Light Replenishment Oiler Program
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11674) on Dec. 12, 2024, by naval affairs specialist Ronald O'Rourke.
Here are excerpts:
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Navy Light Replenishment Oiler (TAOL) Program: Background and Issues for Congress
Introduction
The Navy's Light Replenishment Oiler (TAOL) program, previously called the Next-Generation Logistics Ship (NGLS) program, envisages procuring a new class of potentially 13 at-sea resupply s more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Navy Next-Generation Attack Submarine Program
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11826) on Dec. 12, 2024, by naval affairs specialist Ronald O'Rourke.
Here are excerpts:
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Navy Next-Generation Attack Submarine (SSN[X]) Program: Background and Issues for Congress
Introduction
The Navy has been procuring Virginia-class nuclear powered attack submarines (SSNs) since FY1998. The Navy's envisaged successor to the Virginia-class design is the Next-Generation more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Navy TAGOS-25 Ocean Surveillance Shipbuilding Program
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11838) on Dec. 12, 2024, by naval affairs specialist Ronald O'Rourke.
Here are excerpts:
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Navy TAGOS-25 Ocean Surveillance Shipbuilding Program: Background and Issues for Congress
Introduction
The Navy in FY2022 procured the first of a planned class of seven new TAGOS-25 class ocean surveillance ships. Under the Navy's FY2025 budget submission, the Navy is proposing to de more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Panama - Country Overview & U.S. Relations
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10430) on Dec. 17, 2024, by foreign affairs analyst Leticia Chacon.
Here are excerpts:
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Panama: Country Overview and U.S. Relations
Panama is strategically important to U.S. commercial and security interests, given its central location in the Americas (linking North and South America), the Panama Canal, large financial sector, and role as a transit country in regional migr more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Smithsonian Institution
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12719) on Dec. 17, 2024, by American national government specialist R. Eric Petersen:
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Smithsonian Institution: Selected Legislation, 118th Congress
The Smithsonian Institution is a complex of museum, education, research, and revenue-generating entities primarily located in the Washington, DC, region, with additional facilities and activities across the United States and w more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Sustainable Aviation Fuel
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12757) on Dec. 12, 2024, by Kelsi Bracmort, natural resources and energy policy specialist:
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Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): An Overview of Current Laws and Legislation Introduced in the 118th Congress
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is fuel derived from "sustainable" sources that meets aviation technical standards. The most touted potential benefits of SAF include assisti more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on U.S. Policy on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11150) on Dec. 17, 2024, by Kelley M. Sayler, advanced technology and global security analyst:
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Defense Primer: U.S. Policy on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems
Lethal autonomous weapon systems (LAWS) are a special class of weapon systems that use sensor suites and computer algorithms to independently identify a target and employ an onboard weapon system to engage and destro more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Proposed Changes to Statutory Process for Reexamination of Congressional Reporting Requirements
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12471) on Dec. 12, 2024.
The white paper is written by government organization and management specialists Clinton T. Brass and Ben Wilhelm and senior research librarian Kathleen E. Marchsteiner:
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Proposed Changes to Statutory Process for Reexamination of Congressional Reporting Requirements
Congress frequently inserts text into a statute - or into a report accompanying legi more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Defense Spending & Your District
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12274) on Dec. 16, 2024, by military personnel specialist Kristy N. Kamarck and defense budget specialist Brendan W. McGarry.
Here are excerpts:
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Defense Spending and Your District
Defense spending touches every Member of Congress's district through pay and benefits for military servicemembers and retirees, economic and environmental impact of installations, and procuremen more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Estate & Gift Tax
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12846) on Dec. 11, 2024, by economic policy senior specialist Jane G. Gravelle:
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Selected Issues in Tax Reform: The Estate and Gift Tax
The estate and gift tax imposes a tax of 40% on gifts and estates in excess of a lifetime exemption of $13.61 million (double that amount for married couples). The exemption is indexed for inflation. The tax revision of 2017 (P.L. 11597), more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on House of Representatives Vacancies
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11722) on Dec. 16, 2024, by American national government analyst Sarah J. Eckman:
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House of Representatives Vacancies: How Are They Filled?
Vacancies in the office of U.S. Representative occur when an incumbent Member dies, resigns, or leaves office for any reason before the end of their term. Multiple special elections to fill vacancies in the House of Representatives typi more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Legal Authorities for Use of Military Forces
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10539) on Dec. 16, 2024, by legislative attorney Jennifer K. Elsea:
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Defense Primer: Legal Authorities for the Use of Military Forces
By the Framers' apparent design, to keep the nation's "purse" and the "sword" in separate hands and in other ways hinder the nation's embroilment in unnecessary wars, the Constitution divides war powers between Congress and the President. Co more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Millennium Challenge Corporation
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12850) on Dec. 16, 2024, by foreign assistance analyst Nick M. Brown.
Here are excerpts:
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Millennium Challenge Corporation
Overview
The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is an independent agency established in 2004 by the Millennium Challenge Act (Title VI of Division D, P.L. 108-199). It was created amid intense congressional debate over U.S. foreign aid effectivene more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Minority Business Development Agency's Rural Business Center Program
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12845) on Dec. 11, 2024, by economic development policy analyst Adam G. Levin:
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The Minority Business Development Agency's Rural Business Center Program
According to the Department of Commerce's Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), there are over 544,000 minority business enterprises (MBEs) in rural parts of the United States. MBEs are defined statutorily as busines more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Block Grant
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10036) on Dec. 16, 2024, by social policy specialist Gene Falk.
Here are excerpts:
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The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Block Grant
Introduction
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant was created in the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA, P.L. 104-193). That law was the culmination of a se more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on U.S. Nuclear Weapons Tests
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11662) on Dec. 16, 2024, by defense policy analyst Anya L. Fink and nonproliferation specialist Mary Beth D. Nikitin:
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U.S. Nuclear Weapons Tests
The United States has observed a voluntary moratorium on nuclear explosive testing since 1992, although it has maintained the ability to resume these tests at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS). Since 1993, it has used a pro more
Congressional Research Service: 'F-35 Lightning II - Background & Issues for Congress' (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48304) on Dec. 11, 2024, entitled "F-35 Lightning II: Background and Issues for Congress" by defense policy analyst Jennifer DiMascio.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
The F-35 Lightning II is a strike fighter aircraft and the Department of Defense's (DOD's) largest procurement program. Lockheed Martin manufactures the aircraft for the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, and international par more
Congressional Research Service: 'F-35 Lightning II - Background & Issues for Congress' (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Dec. 14 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48304) on Dec. 11, 2024, entitled "F-35 Lightning II - Background and Issues for Congress:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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Cost and Funding
The F-35 program receives (or in the past received) funding from the Air Force, Department of the Navy, and Defense-Wide research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) accounts. The program received Defense-Wide RDT&E funding in FY1996, FY1997, a more
House Science Committee Issues Report on NASA Streamlining Partnerships for Research & Education for Engineering & Science Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 -- The House Science, Space, and Technology Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-746) on the NASA Streamlining Partnerships for Research and Education for Engineering and Science Act (H.R. 7687), xxx. The report was advanced by Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Oklahoma, on Nov. 18, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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Purpose and Summary
H.R. 7687 supports interagency collaboration between NASA and other federal agencies. This bill amends title 51, United States Code, to authorize the tran more
House Ways & Means Committee Issues Report on Protecting American Seniors' Access to Care Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 -- The House Ways and Means Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-745) on the Protecting American Seniors' Access to Care Act (H.R. 7513), which aims to prohibit the Secretary of Health and Human Services from finalizing a proposed rule regarding minimum staffing for nursing facilities and to establish an advisory panel on the skilled nursing facility workforce. The report was advanced by Rep. Jason Smith, R-Missouri, on Nov. 18, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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I. SUMMARY A more
Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee Issues Report on First Responder Access to Innovative Technologies Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued a report (S.Rpt. 118-243) on the First Responder Access to Innovative Technologies Act (H.R. 3254), which aims to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish a process to review applications for certain grants to purchase equipment or systems that do not meet or exceed any applicable national voluntary consensus standards. The report was advanced by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, on Nov. 13, 202 more
Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee Issues Report on Strengthening Oversight of Federal Records Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued a report (S.Rpt. 118-235) on the Strengthening Oversight of Federal Records Act (S. 4042), which aims to amend Title 44 of the U.S. Code, to reform the management of federal records. The report was advanced by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, on Nov. 12, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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I. Purpose and Summary
S. 4042, the Strengthening Oversight of Federal Records Act of 2024, would modernize the Federal more
ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico, Dec. 20 -- The American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico issued the following news release:
NEW YORK - New documents obtained by the ACLU reveal that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is actively considering proposals to expand its immigration detention capacity in at least six states across the country, including in California, Kansas, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Washington state. The records, obtained as a result of a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) la more
ACLU-N.M.: First Hearing in Carlos Doe V. ICE Exposes ICE's Lack of Accountability in Continuing to Detain Individuals at Torrance County Detention Facility
ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico, Dec. 20 -- The American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2024:
Today, a federal court held the first hearing in Carlos Doe v. ICE, a case that challenges U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) 2022 decision to certify the Torrance County Detention Facility (TCDF) as passing its overall performance evaluation. This certification allowed ICE to continue detaining people at TCDF despite dangerous and inhumane condi more
Blackburn, Ossoff Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Passes Senate
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tennessee, issued the following news release:
Yesterday, the Senate passed the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates:
"Last year, nearly half of surveyed Bureau of Prisons staff stated they had been sexually harassed or assaulted by an inmate. T more
E&C Republicans Request HHS Watchdog Investigate Promotion of Gender Transition Procedures for Children
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Washington, chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release:
In a new letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Inspector General Christi Grimm, House Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans requested an investigation into the strength, quality, and types of evidence-based scientific and pediatric medical literature relied on by the department to promote gender transition procedures for chi more
Ernst Blasts Biden's Gift to Bah Humbug Bureaucrats
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
WASHNGTON In response to public employee unions rushing to lock in telework agreements through 2029 at the 11th hour of the Biden administration, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) demanded the heads of 24 federal agencies immediately suspend all negotiations of telework privileges.
After her report exposed that 90% of federal employees are eligible to telework, Senate DOGE Caucus Chair Ernst additionally requeste more
Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Chair Reta Jo Lewis Highlights EXIM's Clean Energy Deals and Work with E.U. Companies During the International Economic Forum of the Americas' Conference of Paris
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Paris, France This week, Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) Chair Reta Jo Lewis delivered remarks during the International Economic Forum of the Americas' (IEFA) Conference of Paris and met with industry leaders in the pharmaceutical, finance, and renewable energy sectors. Over the course of the week, Chair Lewis highlighted EXIM's efforts to promote U.S. more
Justice Department Files Nationwide Lawsuit Alleging CVS Knowingly Dispensed Controlled Substances in Violation of the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
In a civil complaint unsealed today in Providence, Rhode Island, the Justice Department alleges that CVS Pharmacy Inc. and various subsidiaries (collectively, CVS) filled unlawful prescriptions in violation of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and sought reimbursement from federal healthcare programs for unlawful prescriptions in violation of the False Claims Act (FCA). CVS is the country more
Justice Dept.: Chemonics International to Pay $3.1M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Billing Under Global Health Supply Chain Contract
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2024:
Chemonics International Inc. (Chemonics), a private international development firm based in Washington, D.C. has agreed to pay $3,119,582 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting fraudulent claims for payment to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Chemonics disclosed the fraudulent billing to the United States in 2020.
The settlement (ht more
Justice Dept.: Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Indicted for Drug Distribution Conspiracy
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
A grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment today charging Special Agent David Cole of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), 50, of South Jordan, Utah, with conspiring with another HSI special agent to sell alpha-PHP, a drug commonly referred to as "bath salts," in Utah.
According to court documents, Cole and another HSI special agent used their status as federal law enforcemen more
Ky. U.S. Attorney: Sixteen Cardiology Practices to Pay Total of $17.7M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Inflated Medicare Reimbursements
LOUISVILLE, Kentucky, Dec. 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky issued the following news release:
Sixteen separate cardiology practices and associated physicians, located across 12 states, have agreed to pay amounts totaling $17,761,564 to resolve allegations that they each violated the False Claims Act by overbilling Medicare for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals.
Diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals are radioisotopes bound to biological molecules that target s more
Md. U.S. Attorney: Two Maryland Men Indicted for Unemployment Insurance Fraud Scheme of More Than $1 Million
BALTIMORE, Maryland, Dec. 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland issued the following news release:
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Defendants Allegedly Committed Aggravated Identity Theft by Using Identities of Victims in Connection with a Scheme to Wrongfully Obtain More than $1 Million in Unemployment Insurance Benefits
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A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging two Maryland men on federal charges related to a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $1 million in une more
Pa. Gov. Shapiro Appoints Attorney General Michelle Henry to Serve as Pennsylvania's State Inspector General
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Dec. 20 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2024:
Governor Josh Shapiro announced the appointment of Attorney General Michelle Henry to serve as Pennsylvania's State Inspector General, effective January 21, 2025. With decades of experience as a prosecutor and now as our Attorney General, Michelle Henry will be prepared on day one to lead the Office of State Inspector General (OSIG) and continue protecting Pennsylvanians' more
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Wyden Investigation Highlights Dangers of Post-Dobbs Emergency Medical Care for Pregnant Women
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2024:
Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the findings of the Committee's investigation into eight hospitals that reportedly delayed and denied women emergency reproductive health care in potential violation of the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) post-Dobbs.
The Committee's report, "Practicing Amid 'a Min more
U.S. Attorney for D.C.: More Than a Dozen Cardiology Practices Will Pay Over $17.7M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Inflated Medicare Reimbursements
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia issued the following news release:
The U.S. Attorney's Office announced today the resolution of False Claims Act violations against 16 separate cardiology practices and associated physicians, located across 12 states, and their agreement to pay a total of $17,761,564 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by overbilling Medicare for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. The U.S. Attorney's Off more
NEW YORK, Dec. 19 [Category: Law/Legal] -- The American Civil Liberties Union, an organization that works to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution and laws of the U.S., issued the following news release:
NEW YORK New documents obtained by the ACLU reveal that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is actively considering proposals to expand its immigration detention capacity in at least six states across the country, including in California, K more
Ala. U.S. Attorney: Former Doctor and Her Wife Sentenced for Fraud and Other Crimes
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama, Dec. 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama issued the following news release:
A former family practice doctor in Huntsville was sentenced today for drug crimes, health care fraud, and COVID-19 disaster relief fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona, FBI Special Agent in Charge Carlton Peeples, Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Steven L. Hofer, and Special Agent in Charge Tamela Miles of the Department of Hea more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on Evaluation of Demilitarization of Damaged, Destroyed & Expended Defense Articles Requiring Enhanced End-Use Monitoring in Ukraine
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Dec. 2, 2024, entitled "Evaluation of the Demilitarization of Damaged, Destroyed and Expended Defense Articles Requiring Enhanced End-Use Monitoring in Ukraine:"
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MEMORANDUM FOR UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR ACQUISITION AND SUSTAINMENT
UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR POLICY
COMMANDER, U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND
COMMANDER, U.S. EUROPEAN COMMAND
COMMANDER, U.S. TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
DIRECTOR, JOINT ST more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on Evaluation of Impact Protecting Department High Risk Personnel on Military Criminal Investigative Organizations
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Dec. 2, 2024, entitled "Evaluation of the Impact Protecting Department High Risk Personnel on the Military Criminal Investigative Organizations:"
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MEMORANDUM FOR DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION DIVISION
DIRECTOR, NAVAL CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIVE SERVICE
COMMANDER, AIR FORCE OFFICE OF SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS
SUBJECT: Evaluation of the Impact Protecting DoD High Risk Personnel on th more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on FY 2025 Review of Compliance With Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Dec. 3, 2024, entitled "FY 2025 Review of Compliance with the Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014:"
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MEMORANDUM FOR CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
COMMANDER, U.S. CYBER COMMAND
DIRECTOR, JOINT STAFF
DIRECTOR, DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY
ASSISTANT TO THE SECRETARY OF DEFENCE FOR PRIVACY, CIVIL LIBERTIES, AND TRANSPARENCY
AUDITOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on Oversight of Audit of FY 2025 U.S. Army Working Capital Fund Financial Statements
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report on Dec. 3, 2024, entitled "Oversight of the Audit of the FY 2025 U.S. Department of the Army Working Capital Fund Financial Statements:"
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MEMORANDUM FOR UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (COMPTROLLER)/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, DOD
DIRECTOR DEFENSE FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING SERVICE
AUDITOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
SUBJECT: Oversight of the Audit of the FY 2025 U.S. Department of the Army Working Capital Fund Fi more
EIB provides EUR16.5 million for new public transport in war-torn cities of Ukraine
BRUSSELS, Belgium, Dec. 19 -- The European Investment Bank issued the following news release:
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has announced EUR16.5 million in EU-backed funding to renew urban public transport in Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Ivano-Frankivsk and Odesa. Backed by an EU guarantee, this operation is part of the EIB's Ukraine Solidarity Urgent Response package, developed in close collaboration with the European Commission. Building on the previously disbursed EUR17.25 million for transport upg more
Ernst Drains the Swamp
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
After her telework report revealed a chronically absent federal workforce, Senate DOGE Caucus Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) released her DRAIN THE SWAMP Act, which relocates at least 30% of Washington's federal workforce, requires the rest of the employees to show up to the office 100% of the time, and facilitates the sale of excess office space.
Last week, Senator Ernst, the incoming chair of the Senate Small Busin more
Export-Import Bank of the United States Board of Directors Approves More Than $300 Million in Transactions
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Today, the Board of Directors at the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) unanimously approved three transactions for more than $300 million.In the first transaction of the day, the Board approved a final commitment of more than $293 million to support the export of Boeing aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines. The transaction is expected to support an estimated 1 more
FinCEN Warns of Fraud Schemes That Abuse Its Name, Insignia, and Authorities for Financial Gain
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Crimes Enforcement Network issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) issued an alert today to raise awareness of fraud schemes abusing FinCEN's name, insignia, and authorities for financial gain. These FinCEN-specific fraud schemes include scams that exploit beneficial ownership information reporting; misuse FinCEN's Money Services Bu more
Ill. U.S. Attorney: Chicago Attorney Indicted on Immigration Fraud Charges
CHICAGO, Illinois, Dec. 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois issued the following news release:
A Chicago attorney has been indicted on federal fraud charges for allegedly providing false and fraudulent information to U.S. authorities to obtain immigration benefits for his foreign national clients.
GERARDO DEAN owned a law office in Chicago and represented a company that operated skilled-nursing facilities. An indictment returned in U.S. District Court in more
Minn. U.S. Attorney: Three Indicted In Medicaid Fraud Conspiracy Scheme
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, Dec. 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota issued the following news release:
A 13-count indictment charges three defendants with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering of proceeds derived from fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, between March 2018 and July 2024, Shawn Ashley Grygo, 37, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, Shantel Rene Magadanz, 34, of Stacy, Minnesota, and Heather more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Troy Man Charged With Pandemic Unemployment Insurance Fraud
ALBANY, New York, Dec. 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York issued the following news release:
Daion Morris, age 32, of Troy, New York, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Lucy Lang, New York State Inspector General (NYSIG), made the announceme more
S.T.O.P. Welcomes OIG Report on NYPD Violations of Surveillance Transparency Law in Drone Usage
NEW YORK, Dec. 19 (TNSres) -- The Surveillance Technology Oversight Project issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
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The Office of the Inspector General for the NYPD detailed the department's failure to comply with the landmark POST Act in its use of unmanned aircraft systems.
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Today, the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.), a New York-based privacy group, welcomes a report from the Department of Investigation's Office of the Inspector General for the N more
Sen. Romney Introduces COVID Spending Transparency Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, introduced the "COVID Spending Transparency Act" on Sept. 23, 2024. The text of the bill was released on Dec. 18.
S. 5140. A bill to extend by 5 years the term of the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
The bill is cosponsored by Sens. Margaret Wood Hassan, D-N.H., Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Mark R. Warner, D-Va.
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SECTION 1. Short title.
This Act may be cited as the "COVI more
Senate Energy Committee Ranking Member Barrasso: Inspector General Report Calls for Suspension of DoE Loan Program
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming, ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, issued the following statement on Dec. 18, 2024:
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U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources (ENR), released the following statement on the Inspector General's interim findings on conflicts of interest in the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office (LPO). Barrasso called on the Inspector General to inv more
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Wyden, Sen. Cortez Masto Investigate Billy Long Work Promoting Fraud-Ridden Tax Credits to Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following news release:
Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) wrote today to two organizations seeking information about the involvement of former Congressman Billy Long, Trump nominee for IRS Commissioner, in the sale of advice related to the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC), a fraud-ridden program that has cost taxpayers hundreds of more
Warren Urges Wellpath to Commit to Fair Payouts and Fair Notice for Incarcerated Patients During Bankruptcy Process
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Wellpath one of the nation's largest private providers of prison healthcare following its declaration of bankruptcy, urging them to ensure that incarcerated patients with credible, serious tort claims against the company as well as staff and other creditors receive fair notice and fair compensation in the course of Wellpath's bankruptcy proceeding more
Warren, Van Hollen, Jacobs Demand Answers on Horrific War Crime Cover-Up
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Representative Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, sent a letter requesting the Department of Defense (DoD) Inspector General investigate reports that the DoD mishandled a case involving U.S. Marines killing civilians in Haditha, Iraq, and D more
412th Test Wing Conducts Combat Readiness Exercise Amid Heightened Threats
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, Ohio, Dec. 18 -- The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center issued the following news:
By Giancarlo Casem, 412th Test Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The 412th Test Wing conducted the largest combat readiness exercise in Air Force Materiel Command corporate memory Dec. 3 to 6, and followed up with a full-day community partner tabletop readiness exercise on Dec. 9 at Edwards Air Force Base, California. The exercise and associated inspection teste more
Center of the American Experiment Issues Commentary: Inspector General Report - the FBI and Jan. 6, 2021
GOLDEN VALLEY, Minnesota, Dec. 18 (TNSres) -- The Center of the American Experiment, a civic and educational organization that says it creates and advocates policies, issued the following commentary on Dec. 16, 2024:
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Inspector General Report -- the FBI and January 6, 2021
Written by David Zimmer
On Thursday, December 12, 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Inspector General (OIG) Michael Horowitz released his report entitled "A Review of the Federal Bureau of Investigation' more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Hospital Ownership
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12848) on Dec. 12, 2024, by health care financing analyst Marco A. Villagrana:
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Hospital Ownership: Medicare Sources of Information
Congress's understanding of hospital ownership is crucial in exercising its legislative and oversight role with respect to health care costs, quality, and access. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) - the agency that administers more
DOD IG: Management Advisory - Review of the DOD's Roles, Responsibilities for Facilitating Delivery of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Through Maritime Corridor - Report No. DODIG-2025-054
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
Audit
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the DoD Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released the "Management Advisory: Review of the DoD's Roles and Responsibilities for Facilitating the Delivery of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Through the Maritime Corridor." The review examined the DoD's execution of its roles and responsibilities for fa more
Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Abu Dhabi Investment Office to Strengthen Trade Ties with UAE in Key Sectors
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Last week, Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) that will strengthen trade and investment ties between the United States and United Arab Emirates (UAE). The MOU will drive collaboration to support small and more
Guyanese National in ICE custody passes away at Miami-area hospital
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued the following news release:
MIAMI Ramesh Amechand, a 60-year-old citizen of Guyana in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was pronounced deceased by medical professionals at the Larkin Community Hospital Palm Springs campus in Hialeah, Florida, Dec. 16 at 4:50 p.m. An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death.
Amechand was admitted Nov. 19 as an in more
House Administration Committee Chairman Loudermilk Releases Second January 6, 2021 Report
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Rep. Bryan Steil, R-Wisconsin, chairman of the House Administration Committee, issued the following news release on Dec. 17, 2024:
Today, Committee on House Administration's Subcommittee on Oversight Chairman Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) released an interim report on his findings on the events surrounding January 6, 2021, as well as his investigation into the politicization of the January 6th Select Committee. This report outlines criminal recommendations against former Repre more
House Oversight & Accountability Committee Issues Testimony From U.S. Postal Service IG Hull
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The House Oversight and Accountability Committee released the following testimony by U.S. Postal Service Inspector General Tammy Hull from a Dec. 10, 2024, hearing on the oversight of the agency:
* * *
Good morning, Chairman Comer, Ranking Member Raskin, and members of the Committee. Thank you for inviting me to discuss our work.
I am proud of the work my office completed this year to promote accountability, integrity, and transparency in the United States Postal Servic more
House Oversight Committee Members Comer, Fallon Issue Statement on Department of Energy Refusal to Reform Oversight Controls, Protect Taxpayers
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Rep. James Comer, R-Kentucky, chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, issued the following news release:
House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) and Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs Chairman Pat Fallon (R-Texas) issued the following joint statement after the Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Inspector General (OIG) released an interim report exposing the Biden Administrat more
Justice Dept.: Doctor Pleads Guilty in $5.5M COVID-19 Fraud Scheme
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
A Texas physician pleaded guilty today in connection with his role in a $5.5 million over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 test fraud scheme.
According to court documents, Mark Mazzare M.D., 57, of Tyler, purchased Medicare beneficiary identifiers (BINs) that were used to bill Medicare millions of dollars for OTC COVID-19 test kits, many of which had not been requested by the beneficiaries. Mazzare entered into more
Planetary Society Commends Congressional Leaders for Space Advocacy
PASADENA, California, Dec. 18 -- The Planetary Society issued the following news release:
* * *
Bipartisan letter supporting higher NASA budget receives nearly two dozen signatures
* * *
The Planetary Society, the world's largest independent space interest organization, commends the work of the Planetary Science Caucus in leading a bipartisan letter supporting a higher topline and addressing the challenges facing NASA as part of the fiscal year 2025 budget negotiations. The letter, addressed more
Senate Environment Committee Ranking Member Capito Demands Transparency on EPA Spending of Taxpayer Dollars Through IRA Grant Programs
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-West Virginia, ranking member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, issued the following news release on Dec. 17, 2024:
Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan outlining significant concerns regarding massive EPA spending on new programs arising out of the Democrats' more
Senate Passes National Defense Authorization Act Containing Over $11 Billion in Hirono-led Provisions to Strengthen National Security
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. Mazie K. Hirono, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release:
~ Within the FY25 NDAA, Hirono secured over $2 billion for infrastructure in Hawaii and over $9 billion for projects, capabilities, and exercises to support the Indo-Pacific region ~
Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, voted to pass the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Au more
Sens. Cornyn, Hassan Bill to Improve Contractor Services Along Southern Border Heads to President Desk
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news:
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements after their DHS Border Services Contracts Review Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Under Secretary for Management to deliver a report assessing contracts for services performed along the U.S.-Mexico border and implement a plan to improve procurement and delivery of those services, passed the more
To The President's Desk: Sens. Hassan, Cornyn Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Border Security
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-New Hampshire, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements after their DHS Border Services Contracts Review Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Under Secretary for Management to deliver a report assessing contracts for services performed along the U.S.-Mexico border and implement a plan to improve procurement and delivery of those se more
Veterans Affairs Dept. Releases Public Communication From Veterans of Foreign Wars
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has released the following public communication dated Dec. 10, 2024, from the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.:
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To: Department of Veterans Affairs
810 Vermont Ave NW
Washington, DC 20420
RE: RIN 2900-AR94 Improving Accreditation Process and Strengthening
* * *
Legal Education Requirements for Accredited Agents and Attorneys The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) is pleased to provide the following co more
Warren, Doggett Urge Medicare Administrator to Crack Down on Abuse by Private Insurers In Medicare Advantage
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) urged the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to finalize rules to curb overpayments to private insurers in Medicare Advantage (MA).
The nonpartisan Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) estimates that private insurers in MA will overcharge taxpayers $83 billion this year alone. Most of these overpay more
Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain: Who Holds Bahrain's Torture Princes Accountable?
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Americans for Democracy and Human Rights in Bahrain issued the following news:
The process of transformation and progress toward democracy in any country necessitates implementing reforms within official state institutions, including the security and judicial systems. These reforms must adhere to a transparent, stringent accountability mechanism grounded in clear legal frameworks. Additionally, it is essential to establish a defined pathway that ensures equal rights for a more
Capito Demands Transparency on EPA Spending of Taxpayer Dollars through IRA Grant Programs
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-West Virginia, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan outlining significant concerns regarding massive EPA spending on new programs arising out of the Democrats' Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
"This rush on the part of your staff increases the ris more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Defense Spending & Your District
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12274) on Dec. 16, 2024, by military personnel specialist Kristy N. Kamarck and defense budget specialist Brendan W. McGarry.
Here are excerpts:
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Defense Spending and Your District
Defense spending touches every Member of Congress's district through pay and benefits for military servicemembers and retirees, economic and environmental impact of installations, and procuremen more
Ga. U.S. Attorney: Florida Woman Sentenced to Prison for Pandemic-Related Fraud
ATLANTA, Georgia, Dec. 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia issued the following news release:
Calah Williams has been sentenced for stealing Economic Injury Disaster Loan ("EIDL"), Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP"), and unemployment insurance ("UI") benefits made available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security ("CARES") Act during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Williams stole from programs designed to help the public during a global crisis more
House Education & Workforce Subcommittee Chairman Owens Issues Opening Statement at Hearing on AmeriCorps
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, chairman of the House Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, released the following opening statement from a Dec. 11, 2024, hearing entitled "Examining the Policies and Priorities of AmeriCorps and Its FY 2024 Audit Failure":
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It is truly a great honor to be entrusted with ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively. With that honor comes serious responsibility: if we are more
House Education & Workforce Subcommittee Issues Testimony From AmeriCorps Acting IG Ravas
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- The House Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development released the following testimony by AmeriCorps Acting Inspector General Stephen H. Ravas from a Dec. 11, 2024, hearing entitled "Examining the Policies and Priorities of AmeriCorps and Its FY 2024 Audit Failure":
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Chairwoman Foxx, Ranking Member Scott, Chairman Owens, Ranking Member Wilson, and Members of the Subcommittee:
Thank you for the opportunity to testify today more
House Education & Workforce Subcommittee Issues Testimony From AmeriCorps CEO Smith
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- The House Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development released the following testimony by AmeriCorps CEO Michael D. Smith from a Dec. 11, 2024, hearing entitled "Examining the Policies and Priorities of AmeriCorps and Its FY 2024 Audit Failure":
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Chairwoman Foxx, Ranking Member Scott, Chairman Owens, Ranking Member Wilson, and Members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to testify on AmeriCorps' progress in a more
Veterans Legislative Package With Sen. Boozman Provisions Passes Senate, Heads to U.S. House
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Sen. John Boozman, R-Arkansas, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a senior member of the Veterans' Affairs committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee, welcomed Senate passage of the Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. The legislation will now go the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.
more
DOD IG: Audit of Cybersecurity of DOD Classified Mobile Devices - Report No. DODIG-2025-053
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Dec. 16, 2024:
Audit
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released the "Audit of Cybersecurity of DoD Classified Mobile Devices." The audit reviewed the effectiveness of select cybersecurity controls to protect DoD classified mobile devices and the classified information accessed, transferre more
DOD IG: Audit of the Navy's Accelerated Promotion Programs - Report No. DODIG-2025-052
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Dec. 16, 2024:
Audit
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released the report "Audit of the Navy's Accelerated Promotion Programs." The audit assessed the impact of the Navy's lack of legal authority over the Accelerated Promotion Programs (APPs) on employees hired in 2016 at the Navy's four more
Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Professional Aviation Safety Specialists
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation released the following written testimony by Dave Spero, national president of Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, from a Dec. 12, 2024, hearing entitled "U.S. Air Traffic Control Systems, Personnel and Safety":
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Chair Duckworth, Ranking Member Moran and members of the subcommittee, thank you for inviting me to testify on behalf of the Professional Aviatio more
Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Reason Foundation Senior Transportation Policy Analyst Scribner
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation released the following testimony by Marc Scribner, senior transportation policy analyst at Reason Foundation, from a Dec. 12, 2024, hearing entitled "U.S. Air Traffic Control Systems, Personnel and Safety":
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Chair Duckworth, Ranking Member Moran, and Members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. My name is Marc Scribner more
Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Crapo Issues Remarks at Open Executive Session on Treasury Nomination
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, ranking member Senate Finance Committee released the following remarks from a Dec. 5, 2024, from an open executive session to consider the nomination of David Samuel Johnson to be Treasury inspector general for tax administration:
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"Mr. Johnson has been nominated to serve as Inspector General for Tax Administration at the Department of the Treasury.
"Mr. Johnson has strong qualifications and oversight experience, and I appreciate his servi more
Senate Rules and Administration Committee Issues Testimony From U.S. Capitol Police Chief Manger
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The Senate Rules and Administration Committee released the following testimony by U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger from a Dec. 11, 2024, hearing on the oversight of the agency:
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Chairwoman Klobuchar, Ranking Member Fischer and Members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to provide an overview of the comprehensive security improvements the Department has implemented, from an enhanced planning and preparation posture to a completely revamped Inte more
Justice Dept. Announces Resolution of Criminal, Civil Investigations Into McKinsey & Company's Work With Purdue Pharma
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
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Former McKinsey Senior Partner Charged With Obstruction of Justice
McKinsey Will Pay $650 Million, Cease Work Relating to Controlled Substances and Implement Significant New Compliance Measures
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McKinsey & Company Inc. (McKinsey), a global management consulting firm based in New York, has agreed to pay $650 million to resolve a criminal and civil investigation into the firm's consulting work more
Justice Dept.: California Hospital to Pay $10.25M to Resolve False Claims Allegations
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
Oroville Hospital, located in Oroville, California, has agreed to pay $10,250,000, to the United States and the State of California to resolve allegations that it knowingly submitted false claims to Medicare and Medicaid arising from medically unnecessary inpatient hospital admissions, a kickback and physician self-referral scheme and the use of erroneous diagnosis codes. Oroville Hospital will pay $9,518,9 more
Justice Dept.: Doctor Charged for Unlawful Distribution of Oxycodone and Other Controlled Substances
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
A New Jersey doctor was arrested yesterday for unlawfully distributing oxycodone and other controlled substances.
According to court documents, Larry Pettis, 76, of Westampton, owned a medical practice that had multiple locations in New Jersey that purported to provide pain management and other services. Pettis allegedly pre-signed prescriptions for controlled substances so that another individual, who was more
Justice Dept.: U.S. Settles False Claims Act Allegations Against Pharmaceutical Distributor for Paying Kickbacks Through Inventory Management Systems
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
ASD Specialty Healthcare LLC (ASD), doing business as Besse Medical (Besse), has agreed to pay $1.67 million to resolve allegations that it violated the Anti-Kickback Statute and False Claims Act by providing inventory management systems to retina practices at no cost to induce them to purchase drugs from Besse. ASD, headquartered in Carrollton, Texas, distributes specialty medical and pharmaceutical produc more
Principal Deputy Assistant A.G. Boynton Delivers Remarks Announcing Resolution of Criminal, Civil Investigations Into McKinsey & Co. Work With Purdue Pharma
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Dec. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following remarks by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian Boynton announcing the resolution of criminal and civil investigations into McKinsey & Co.'s work with Purdue Pharma LP:
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As Prepared for Delivery
Good afternoon. My name is Brian Boynton. I am the Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division at the Justice Department. In that role, I serve as the head of the Civil Divi more
Journalism Tipoffs from TNS
Husker Inventions, Research, Expertise Made Headlines in 2024
LINCOLN, Nebraska, Jan. 7 (TNSres) -- The University of Nebraska issued the following news:
By Sean Hagewood, University Communication and Marketing
A pair of achievements by a father and son, a faculty member's consultation on a Hollywood blockbuster and a series of first-of-their-kind crash tests generated national and international headlines for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2024. More than 500 positive stories featuring the university, its faculty, staff, students, centers and pro more
Independent Women Welcomes 2025 Fellows Class
WASHINGTON, Jan. 7 -- The Independent Women's Forum issued the following news release:
[Category: Political]
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Independent Women announced its 2025 class of visiting fellows.
For decades, Independent Women has offered fellowships to rising stars in the conservative and freedom movement that align with its mission and ideals to preserve and advance opportunity and well-being. Independent Women's new class is no exception, featuring outstanding women from a variety of more
Local Broadcasters Form Joint Venture to Provide High-Speed Data Transmission Services to Clients Across the United States
CINCINNATI, Ohio, Jan. 7 [Category: BizMedia] -- The E.W. Scripps, a broadcasting company, issued the following news release:
"EdgeBeam Wireless" Will Use ATSC 3.0 to Provide Faster, More Secure and Less Expensive Data Delivery
Jan. 7, 2025 Four of the nation's largest independent local broadcasting groups have come together to form EdgeBeam Wireless, LLC, a joint venture created to provide robust wireless data services to a wide range of businesses and industries across the country.
The E.W. more
Local Broadcasters Form Joint Venture to Provide High-Speed Data Transmission Services to Clients Across the United States
CINCINNATI, Ohio, Jan. 7 [Category: BizMedia] -- The E.W. Scripps, a broadcasting company, issued the following news release:
# Local Broadcasters Form Joint Venture to Provide High-Speed Data Transmission Services to Clients Across the United States
Jan. 7, 2025 By Carolyn Micheli
"EdgeBeam Wireless" Will Use ATSC 3.0 to Provide Faster, More Secure and Less Expensive Data Delivery
Jan. 7, 2025 -- Four of the nation's largest independent local broadcasting groups have come together to for more
NUJ calls on Apple to remove Apple Intelligence, warning of harm to journalism
LONDON, England, Jan. 7 -- The National Union of Journalists issued the following news:
[Category: BizMedia]
Whilst the union notes confirmation from Apple stating it will update its feature, significant concerns remain over the erosion of public confidence in journalism if the feature is not removed. Among inaccurate reporting by Apple Intelligence, was an update sent to readers last month, falsely stating the BBC had reported the suicide of Luigi Mangione.
The NUJ has repeatedly raised its more
Veteran Scripps leader Lyn Plantinga promoted to lead local media operations
CINCINNATI, Ohio, Jan. 7 [Category: BizMedia] -- The E.W. Scripps, a broadcasting company, issued the following news release:
# Veteran Scripps leader Lyn Plantinga promoted to lead local media operations
Jan. 7, 2025 By Molly Miossi
CINCINNATI - The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) has promoted veteran Scripps local television leader Lyn Plantinga to the role of senior vice president of local media, effective immediately. In this role, Plantinga will lead local media operations, overseei more
Wall Street Journal Announces Key New Hires for DC Bureau
NEW YORK, Jan. 7 -- Dow Jones, a provider of news and business information, issued the following news release on Jan. 6, 2025:
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Josh Dawsey, Meridith McGraw, Olivia Beavers and Gavin Bade Join in Coming Weeks
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The Wall Street Journal announced today the hiring of four reporters to its Washington D.C. bureau, bolstering the newsroom with some of the industry's top reporters covering the White House, Congress and trade. Josh Dawsey, Meridith McGraw, Olivia Beavers and Gavin Bade will more
Northwestern will host a series of public events commemorating the life of MLK
EVANSTON, Illinois, Jan. 6 -- Northwestern University issued the following news release:
Stephanie Kulke
EVANSTON, Ill. - The annual MLK Commemoration celebration at Northwestern University leans into Chicago's history and ongoing efforts to reverse the harms of housing segregation.
Two weeks of public programming kicks off Sunday, Jan. 12 at 3 p.m. with the Alpha Mu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity's 45th annual candlelight vigil at Alice Millar Chapel and concludes with a virtual MLK o more
