Alliance for Retired Americans: Retirees Praise Harris' New Medicare Home Care Plan for Seniors
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Alliance for Retired Americans issued the following statement on Oct. 8, 2024:
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The following statement was issued by Richard Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, regarding Vice President Kamala Harris' proposed new home care benefit for seniors:
"Vice President Harris' home care plan is exactly what millions of American seniors and their families need.
"We know that seniors have better health outcomes when they can age in their own more
National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Medicare: Harris' Medicare Expansion Plan Would Boost Seniors & Their Families
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare issued the following statement on Oct. 8, 2024:
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"We have long championed the expansion of federal support for long-term care -- and today, Kamala Harris gave that cause an enormous boost. Harris announced a new plan to expand Medicare to cover the cost of long-term care at home. By covering home and community-based services through Medicare, seniors with serious health issues could 'age in place' at hom more
As Early Voting Begins in Indiana, Democrats Urge Hoosiers To Make Their Voices Heard
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Democratic National Committee issued the following news release:
Today, as Hoosiers celebrate the first day of early voting, the DNC is ensuring voters have all the information they need to make voting early easy in the most important election of our lifetimes.
"Voters across Indiana understand the stakes of this election: economic opportunity, fundamental freedoms, and the democratic values that unite us," said DNC Communications Director Rosemary Boeglin. "As early more
New AARP Poll: Presidential Race Is a Toss-up in Arizona
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 [Category: Sociological] -- AARP (formerly American Association of Retired Persons) issued the following news release:
PHOENIX--Today, AARP Arizona released its second statewide election survey that shows candidates for President, U.S. Senate, and state races should pay close attention to Arizonans ages 50 and older. Ninety-two percent of voters ages 50 and older say they are "extremely motivated" to vote in this election, a 6-point increase since AARP Arizona's first poll, r more
U.S. Department of the Treasury Announces Awardees Under Innovative $75 Million Small Business Grant Program
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury issued the following news release:
Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the full list of awardees receiving funding to support small business growth through the Biden-Harris Administration's State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program (SBOP) following recent announcements of several initial awards. SBOP is a $75 million competitive grant program that provides fund more
GOVERNMENT - Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Department of Army & Army Command Structure
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10544) on Oct. 10, 2024, by military ground forces specialist Andrew Feickert and senior research librarian Barbara Salazar Torreon.
Here are excerpts:
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Defense Primer: Department of the Army and Army Command Structure
Overview
Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution stipulates, "The Congress shall have power ... to raise and support Armies ... make Rules for the Governm more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Israel & Lebanese Hezbollah - Conflict & Escalation
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12770) on Oct. 10, 2024, by Middle Eastern affairs specialists Jim Zanotti and Clayton Thomas.
Here are excerpts:
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Israel and Lebanese Hezbollah: Conflict and Escalation
A day after Hamas (a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization, or FTO) led October 7, 2023, attacks against Israel that began their ongoing war, Lebanese Hezbollah (another FTO) started shooting roc more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Offshore Energy Agency Appropriations, FY2025
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12782) on Oct. 10, 2024, by natural resources policy specialist Laura B. Comay.
Here are excerpts:
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Offshore Energy Agency Appropriations, FY2025
Three entities in the Department of the Interior (DOI) share responsibility for managing the nation's ocean energy resources on almost 2.5 billion acres of the U.S. outer continental shelf (OCS). The Bureau of Ocean Energy Manage more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Organization of U.S. Ground Forces
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10571) on Oct. 10, 2024, by military ground forces specialist Andrew Feickert and senior research librarian Barbara Salazar Torreon:
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Defense Primer: Organization of U.S. Ground Forces
Overview
The Army is the U.S. military's primary ground force. Title 10, Subtitle B, Part I, Chapter 307 of the U.S. Code addresses the organization of the Army. The Marine Corps serves as more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Presidential Libraries & Museums
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12781) on Oct. 10, 2024, by Meghan M. Stuessy, government organization and management analyst:
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Presidential Libraries and Museums
At the conclusion of a presidency, former Presidents and their supporters may seek to construct facilities to commemorate their terms of office and house presidential materials. In 1955, Congress enacted the Presidential Libraries Act (PLA; P.L. 84-373) more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Special Operations Forces
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12770) on Oct. 10, 2024, by military ground forces specialist Andrew Feickert and senior research librarian Barbara Salazar Torreon:
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Defense Primer: Special Operations Forces
Overview
Special Operations Forces (SOF) are those active duty and reserve component forces of the military services designated by the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF) and specifically selected, organiz more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on FDA Regulation of Tampons
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12441) on Oct. 11, 2024, by health policy specialist Amanda K. Sarata:
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FDA Regulation of Tampons
An August 2024 study led by researchers at Columbia University evaluated the concentration of 16 different metals in multiple brands of tampons and reported detecting measurable concentrations of all 16 metals. The authors concluded that using tampons may be a potential source o more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Hurricane Milton Recovery
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12438) on Oct. 11, 2024.
The white paper by section research manager Lauren R. Stienstra, American national government specialist Bruce R. Lindsay, flood insurance and emergency management specialist Diane P. Horn, homeland security and appropriations specialist William L. Painter and emergency management and disaster recovery specialists Erica A. Lee and Elizabeth M. Webster:
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Congressional Research Service: 'Cost-of-Living Adjustments for Federal Civil Service Annuities'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. 94-834) on Oct. 10, 2024, entitled "Cost-of-Living Adjustments for Federal Civil Service Annuities" by income security specialist Katelin P. Isaacs.
Here are excerpts:
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Summary
Cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) are based on the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index for Ur more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on China Primer - Human Rights
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12265) on Oct. 8, 2024, by Asian affairs specialist Thomas Lum and foreign affairs specialist Michael A. Weber:
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China Primer: Human Rights
Overview
The nongovernmental human rights organization Freedom House describes China's party-state as an "authoritarian regime" that "has become increasingly repressive in recent years." Some analysts argue China has moved in a totalit more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Federal Student Aid Authorized by Title IV of Higher Education Act
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12265) on Oct. 9, 2024.
The white paper is written by education policy specialists Rita R. Zota and Cassandria Dortch, and social policy specialist Alexandra Hegji.
Here are excerpts:
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Federal Student Aid Authorized by Title IV of the Higher Education Act
Federal financial assistance for students pursuing postsecondary education is primarily provided through Title IV of t more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Russian Military Performance & Outlook
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12606) on Oct. 10, 2024, by Andrew S. Bowen, Russian and European affairs analyst:
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Russian Military Performance and Outlook
Despite advantages of a larger recruitment base and defense industrial capacity, the Russian military has been unable to decisively defeat the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) since Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The Russian military has suff more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Army Security Force Assistance Brigades
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10675) on Oct. 9, 2024, by military ground forces specialist Andrew Feickert:
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Army Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs)
What Is Security Force Assistance (SFA)?
Security Force Assistance (SFA) is defined as "unified action to generate, employ, and sustain local, host-nation, or regional security forces in support of a legitimate authority." By definition "security more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on U.S. Marine Corps Marine Littoral Regiment
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12200) on Oct. 9, 2024, by military ground forces specialist Andrew Feickert:
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The U.S. Marine Corps Marine Littoral Regiment (MLR)
Background
On March 23, 2020, the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) announced a major force design initiative planned to occur over 10 years originally referred to as "Force Design 2030" but now known as "Force Design." As part of this initiative, the more
Congressional Research Service: 'Monuments & Memorials Authorized Under Commemorative Works Act in District of Columbia - Current Development of In Progress & Lapsed Works' (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R43744) on Sept. 27, 2024, entitled "The U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise: Background and Possible Issues for Congress" by Congress specialist Jacob R. Straus.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
Monuments and Memorials Authorized Under the Commemorative Works Act in the District of Columbia: Current Development of In Progress and Lapsed Works Under the Commemorative Works Act (CWA) of 1986, Cong more
Congressional Research Service: 'Monuments & Memorials Authorized Under Commemorative Works Act in District of Columbia - Current Development of In Progress & Lapsed Works' (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R43744) on Sept. 27, 2024, entitled "The U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise - Background and Possible Issues for Congress:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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Site Locations to Be Determined
John Adams and His Family
In November 2001, Congress authorized the Adams Memorial Foundation to "establish a commemorative work on Federal land in the District of Columbia and its environs to honor former more
Congressional Research Service: 'Temporary Protected Status & Deferred Enforced Departure' (Part 1 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. RS20844) on Sept. 23, 2024, entitled "Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure" by immigration policy analyst Jill H. Wilson.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
When civil unrest, violence, or natural disasters erupt in countries around the world, concerns arise over the ability of certain foreign nationals present in the United States who are from those countries to safely ret more
Congressional Research Service: 'Temporary Protected Status & Deferred Enforced Departure' (Part 2 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. RS20844) on Sept. 23, 2024, entitled "Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 3)
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Central American Countries
The only time Congress designated a country for TPS was in 1990 (as part of P.L. 101-649, the law establishing TPS) when it designated El Salvador for 18 months./71 In the aftermath of Hurricane Mitch in November 1998, then-Attorney G more
Congressional Research Service: 'Temporary Protected Status & Deferred Enforced Departure' (Part 3 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. RS20844) on Sept. 23, 2024, entitled "Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure:"
(Continued from Part 2 of 3)
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Somalia
Somalia has endured decades of chronic instability and humanitarian crises. Since the collapse of the authoritarian Siad Barre regime in 1991, it has lacked a viable central authority capable of exerting territorial control, securing its borders, or prov more
Congressional Research Service: 'U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise - Background & Possible Issues for Congress' (Part 1 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- - The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48194) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "The U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise: Background and Possible Issues for Congress" by defense policy analyst Anya L. Fink.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
Created in 2000, the Department of Energy's (DOE's) semi-autonomous National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is responsible for managing the U.S. stockpile of nuclear warheads that the Department more
Congressional Research Service: 'U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise - Background & Possible Issues for Congress' (Part 2 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- - The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48194) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "The U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise - Background and Possible Issues for Congress:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 3)
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Nuclear Security Enterprise Facilities
Title 50, Section 2501 of the U.S. Code (50 U.S.C. Sec.2501) defines the NNSA "nuclear security enterprise" (NSE) as "the physical facilities, technology, and human capital of the national security l more
Congressional Research Service: 'U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise - Background & Possible Issues for Congress' (Part 3 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- - The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48194) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "The U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise - Background and Possible Issues for Congress:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 3)
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Possible Issues for Congress
As Congress conducts oversight of DOE's and NNSA's management, operations, and programs, and also authorizes and appropriates funds for NNSA Weapons Activities, it may address a range of issues. This section of more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Army Security Force Assistance Brigades
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10675) on Oct. 8, 2024, by military ground forces specialist Andrew Feickert:
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Army Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFABs)
What Is Security Force Assistance (SFA)?
Security Force Assistance (SFA) is defined as "unified action to generate, employ, and sustain local, host-nation, or regional security forces in support of a legitimate authority." By definition "security f more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Military Installations Management
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10675) on Oct. 8, 2024, by defense infrastructure policy analyst Andrew Tilghman.
Here are excerpts:
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Defense Primer: Military Installations Management
The Department of Defense (DOD) and the three military departments - the Army, Navy, and Air Force - maintain distinctive organizational structures, policies, and programs for managing their installations. Section 2801 of T more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on 2023 Premium Tax Credit Tool
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12437) on Oct. 8, 2024, by health care financing analyst Ryan J. Rosso.
Here are excerpts:
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2023 Premium Tax Credit Tool: An Interactive Tool for Congressional Users
This Insight accompanies the 2023 Premium Tax Credit Tool, a Microsoft Excel file that congressional users can download from CRS.gov. The tool was designed to assist Congress in evaluating policy considerations more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Military Child Care Proposals
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12436) on Oct. 8, 2024, by military manpower specialist Kristy N. Kamarck.
Here are excerpts:
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FY2025 NDAA: Military Child Care Proposals
In 2023, the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) established a Quality of Life (QoL) Panel to develop proposals for a National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY2025 NDAA). On April 8, 2024, the QoL Panel released its fi more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on National Flood Insurance Program Borrowing Authority
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN10784) on Oct. 8, 2024, by Diane P. Horn, flood insurance and emergency management specialist.
Here are excerpts:
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National Flood Insurance Program Borrowing Authority
Updated October 8, 2024
This Insight evaluates the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) borrowing authority to receive loans from the Treasury and the current financial situation of the NFIP.
NFIP Funding more
Congressional Research Service: 'False Statements & Perjury - An Overview of Federal Criminal Law' (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. 98-808) on Oct. 8, 2024, entitled "False Statements and Perjury: An Overview of Federal Criminal Law" by Charles Doyle, American public law senior specialist:
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Summary
Federal courts, Congress, and federal agencies rely upon truthful information in order to make informed decisions. Federal law therefore proscribes providing the federal courts, Congress, or federal agencies with false inform more
Congressional Research Service: 'False Statements & Perjury - An Overview of Federal Criminal Law' (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. 98-808) on Oct. 8, 2024, entitled "False Statements and Perjury - An Overview of Federal Criminal Law:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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Perjury in a Judicial Context (18 U.S.C. Sec. 1623)
Congress enacted Sec. 1623 to avoid some of the common law technicalities embodied in the more comprehensive perjury provisions found in Sec. 1621 and thus "to facilitate perjury prosecutions and thereby e more
Congressional Research Service: 'False Statements and Perjury - An Abridged Overview of Federal Criminal Law'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. 98-807) on Oct. 8, 2024, entitled "False Statements and Perjury: An Abridged Overview of Federal Criminal Law" by Charles Doyle, American public law senior specialist:
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Summary
Federal courts, Congress, and federal agencies rely upon truthful information in order to make informed decisions. Federal law therefore proscribes providing the federal courts, Congress, or federal agencies with fa more
Congressional Research Service Issues Fact Sheet on Leaders and Elections - Latin America & Caribbean
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following fact sheet (No. 98-684) on Oct. 7, 2024, by senior research librarian Carla Y. Davis-Castro.
Here are excerpts:
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Latin America and the Caribbean: Fact Sheet on Leaders and Elections
This report provides the results of recent presidential elections in Latin America and the Caribbean. Below are three tables, organized by region, that include the date of each country's independence, the name of the most more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Coast Guard Waterways Commerce Cutter Program
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11672) on Oct. 7, 2024, by naval affairs specialist Ronald O'Rourke.
Here are excerpts:
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Coast Guard Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) Program: Background and Issues for Congress
Introduction
The Coast Guard's Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) program envisages procuring 30 replacements for the Coast Guard's 35 aging river buoy tenders (WLRs), inland construction tenders (WLIC more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Federal Land Management Agencies
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10585) on Oct. 7, 2024.
The white paper is written by natural resources policy specialists Carol Hardy Vincent, Laura B. Comay, Mark K. DeSantis, Eric P. Nardi and Anne A. Riddle.
Here are excerpts:
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The Federal Land Management Agencies
The Property Clause in the U.S. Constitution (Article IV, Section 3, clause 2) provides Congress the authority to acquire, dispose of, a more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Recreation.gov
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12778) on Oct. 7, 2024, by natural resources policy analysts Mark K. DeSantis and Eric P. Nardi.
Here are excerpts:
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Recreation.gov: Overview and Issues for Congress
For many people looking to experience the country's federal lands and waters, their trip begins with a visit to Recreation.gov. Recreation.gov is a cloud-based website that offers federal recreation information more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on SBA's State Trade Expansion Program
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12149) on Oct. 7, 2024, by economic development policy analyst Adam G. Levin.
Here are excerpts:
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The Small Business Administration's State Trade Expansion Program
American small businesses regularly export to international markets, contributing to both domestic and global economies by trading with approximately 95% of the world population living outside the United States. more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on Equal Time Rule for Political Candidates
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11239) on Oct. 7, 2024, by attorney-adviser Eric N. Holmes:
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The Equal Time Rule for Political Candidates: Constitutional Context
On July 23, 2024, two days after announcing that he would exit the 2024 presidential race, President Joe Biden wrote on social media that he would address the country on "what lies ahead." In advance of this address, news organizations repor more
A.G. Garland Delivers Remarks Announcing TD Bank Guilty Plea for Bank Secrecy Act, Money Laundering Conspiracy Violations in $1.8B Resolution
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following remarks on Oct. 10, 2024, by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announcing TD Bank's guilty plea for the Bank Secrecy Act and money laundering conspiracy violations in a $1.8 billion resolution:
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Good afternoon everyone. Before we get started today, I want to extend my sympathy to the millions of Americans who've had their lives turned upside down by Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene.
I know I speak for all o more
FEC Issues Digest for Week of Oct. 7-11
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- The Federal Election Commission issued the following weekly digest:
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Commission meetings and hearings
On October 8 and 10, the Commission met in executive session.
On October 10, the Commission held an open meeting.
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Advisory Opinions
Opinions Issued
Advisory Opinion 2024-09 (https://www.fec.gov/data/legal/advisory-opinions/2024-09/) (Nanette Barragan and Barragan for Congress) On October 10, the Commission approved an advisory opinion concluding that Con more
Justice Dept.: California Home Health Agency and Owner Settle False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Improper Paycheck Protection Program Loan
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
Allstar Health Providers Inc., a California home health agency, and its owner, Maria Chua, have agreed to pay $399,990 to the United States to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act when they knowingly received and retained more than one Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan prior to Dec. 31, 2020, in violation of PPP rules.
The PPP, an emergency loan program established by Congress i more
Justice Dept.: TD Bank Pleads Guilty to Bank Secrecy Act and Money Laundering Conspiracy Violations in $1.8B Resolution
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Oct. 10, 2024:
TD Bank N.A. (TDBNA), the 10th largest bank in the United States, and its parent company TD Bank US Holding Company (TDBUSH) (together with TDBNA, TD Bank) pleaded guilty today and agreed to pay over $1.8 billion in penalties to resolve the Justice Department's investigation into violations of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and money laundering.
TDBNA pleaded guilty to conspiring to fail to m more
Rep. Molinaro Introduces Head Start Accountability Act
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Marcus Molinaro, R-N.Y., introduced the "Head Start Accountability Act" on July 22, 2024. The text of the bill was released on Oct. 11.
H.R. 9087. A bill to require the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services to investigate Head Start facilities that fail to produce their annual audits as required by law; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce.
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SECTION 1. Short title.
This Act may be cited as the "Head Start Accountability A more
Reps. Deluzio, Boyle Introduce Bill to Fight Amtrak Delays Caused by Freight Train Interference
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Chris Deluzio, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on Oct. 11, 2024:
Today, Pennsylvania Congressmen Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Brendan Boyle (PA-02) introduced the Rail Passenger Fairness Act to help Amtrak improve on-time performance for passenger train travel across the country. This bill would do this by taking on the problem of freight train interference, which happens when freight trains do not follow current law requiring them to provide preferenc more
DOD IG: Audit of DOD Maintenance of Military Equipment Provided in Support of Ukraine - Report No. DODIG-2025-002
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Oct. 10, 2024:
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Audit
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released the "Audit of DoD Maintenance of Military Equipment Provided in Support of Ukraine." The audit aimed to determine the extent to which DoD performed maintenance support for U.S. military equipment provided to Ukraine, f more
Duckworth Reacts to New Federal Report Detailing FAA's Boeing Oversight Failures
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Illinois, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)--Chair of the Senate's Aviation Safety Subcommittee--issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Inspector General (OIG) released its new comprehensive audit of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) oversight of Boeing 737 and 787 aircraft production, which revealed weaknesses and failures in FAA's oversight proce more
Export-Import Bank of the United States Board of Directors Supports Nearly $700 Million Transaction
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
The Board of Directors at the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) approved a direct loan yesterday for more than $690 million to support the development of a world scale integrated condensate splitter and aromatics complex in Malaysia. The project is being financed in collaboration with SACE (Italian Export Credit Agency), CESCE (Spanish Export Credit Agen more
Fla. Auditor General Issues Quality Assessment Review on Department of Elder Affairs - Office of IG's Internal Audit Activity
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Oct. 11 -- The Florida Auditor General released the following quality assessment review (No. 2025-029) on Oct. 8, 2024, involving the Department of Elder Affairs - Office of Inspector General's Internal Audit Activity.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
In our opinion, the quality assurance and improvement program related to the Department of Elder Affairs, Office of Inspector General's internal audit activity was adequately designed and complied with during the review pe more
House Administration Committee Issues Report on Secure Handling of Internet Electronic Donations Act
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Administration Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-696) on the Secure Handling of Internet Electronic Donations Act (H.R. 9488), which aims to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to require the disclosure of the card verification value as a condition of the acceptance of online contributions made through the use of credit or debit cards in elections for Federal office and to prohibit the acceptance of contributions made through the use of gift cards more
House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Green Presses DHS, FBI on Failure to Fully Vet Afghan National Charged With Plotting Election Day Terrorist Attack, & Increased ISIS-Related Threats
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- Rep. Mark Green, R-Tennessee, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, issued the following news release on Oct. 10, 2024:
This week, House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Mark E. Green, MD (R-TN) sent a letter demanding answers from Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray on the recent arrests of two Afghan nationals in Oklahoma CIty, Oklahoma, who were allege more
House Science Committee Leaders Lucas, Lofgren Call for Additional Changes Following Investigation Into Handling of Sexual Harassment in U.S. Antarctic Program
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Oklahoma, chair of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, issued the following news release on Oct. 10, 2024:
Today, House Science, Space, and Technology Committee leaders Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK) and Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) sent a letter to Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan, Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF), recommending several changes to the NSF's solicitation for the Antarctic Science and Engineering Support cont more
House Veterans' Affairs Committee Issues Report on Restoring Benefits to Defrauded Veterans Act
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-655) on the Restoring Benefits to Defrauded Veterans Act (H.R. 4190), which aims to amend Title 38 of the U.S. Code to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to repay the estates of deceased beneficiaries for certain benefits paid by the Secretary and misused by fiduciaries of such beneficiaries. The report was advanced by Rep. Mike Bost, R-Illinois, on Sept. 9, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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Purpose an more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From GAO Director Curda
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs released the following testimony by Elizabeth Curda, director of education, workforce and income security at the Government Accountability Office, from a Sept. 18, 2024, hearing entitled "Examining VA's Challenges With Ensuring Quality Contracted Disability Compensation Examinations":
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What GAO Found
The Department of Veterans Affairs' Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) uses more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From VA Chief Information Officer DelBene
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization released the following testimony by Kurt DelBene, assistant secretary of Veterans Affairs for information and technology and chief information officer, from a Sept. 19, 2024, hearing entitled "VA's Open Cash Register: Fraud, Waste, Abuse and Revenue Operations":
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Good morning, Chairman Rosendale, Ranking Member Cherfilus-McCormick, and distinguished Members of the Subcommittee. Thank you for the op more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From VA Deputy Assistant IG for Healthcare Inspections Baptiste
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations released the following testimony by Jennifer Baptiste, deputy assistant inspector general for healthcare inspections at the Veterans Affairs Department, from a Sept. 24, 2024, hearing entitled "VA Accountability: What has Happened to Hampton?":
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Chairwoman Kiggans, Ranking Member Mrvan, and committee members, thank you for the opportunity to discuss a recent series of reports by the Office of I more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From VA Office of Inspector General
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization released the following testimony by Jennifer McDonald, director of the Community Care Division at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, from a Sept. 19, 2024, hearing entitled "VA's Open Cash Register: Fraud, Waste, Abuse and Revenue Operations":
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Chairman Rosendale, Ranking Member Cherfilus-McCormick, and members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From VA Principal Deputy Assistant IG for Healthcare Inspections Kroviak
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health released the following testimony by Julie Kroviak, principal deputy assistant inspector general for healthcare inspections at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General, from a Sept. 18, 2024, hearing entitled "Hearing: Dial 988 +1: Examining the Operations of the Veterans Crisis Line":
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Chairwoman Miller-Meeks, Ranking Member Brownley, and Subcommittee Members, thank you for the opportu more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From VA Under Secretary for Policy & Oversight Burke
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity released the following testimony by Ronald Burke, under secretary for policy and oversight at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Benefits Administration, from a Sept. 26, 2024, hearing entitled "Digital GI Bill in Disarray: Holding the Biden-Harris Administration Accountable for VA's Costly Mismanagement":
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Chairman Van Orden, Ranking Member Levin, and other Members of the Subcommittee, t more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Veterans Benefits Administration
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs released the following testimony by Jeffrey London, executive director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Benefits Administration, from a Sept. 18, 2024, hearing entitled "Examining VA's Challenges With Ensuring Quality Contracted Disability Compensation Examinations":
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Chairman Luttrell, Ranking Member Pappas, and distinguished members of the Subcommittee, thank more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Veterans Health Administration
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health released the following testimony by Matthew Miller, executive director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration, from a Sept. 18, 2024, hearing entitled "Hearing: Dial 988 +1: Examining the Operations of the Veterans Crisis Line":
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Good afternoon, Chairwoman Miller-Meeks, Ranking Member Brownley, and distinguished Members of the Subcommittee. Thank you for the opportunity today to di more
House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Veterans Integrated Services Network 6 Director Crews
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations released the following testimony by Paul S. Crews, director of the Veterans Integrated Services Network 6 at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration, from a Sept. 24, 2024, hearing entitled "VA Accountability: What has Happened to Hampton?":
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Good morning, Chairwoman Kiggans, Ranking Member Mrvan, and Members of the Subcommittee. I appreciate the opportunity to di more
Ill. U.S. Attorney: Former Chief Executive Officer of Chicago Hospital Added to Federal Indictment Alleging Corruption and Embezzlement
CHICAGO, Illinois, Oct. 12 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois issued the following news release:
An ongoing federal investigation into alleged corruption and embezzlement at a Chicago hospital has resulted in a conspiracy charge against the hospital's former Chief Executive Officer.
A 45-count, second superseding indictment accuses former CEO GEORGE MILLER, JR., 73, of Dallas, Texas, of conspiring with the hospital's then-Chief Financial Officer, ANOSH AHM more
Mass. U.S. Attorney: Magellan Diagnostics Sentenced for Concealing Malfunction in Lead Testing Devices
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Oct. 11 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts issued the following news release on Oct. 10, 2024:
Magellan Diagnostics, Inc., a medical device company headquartered in Billerica, Mass., was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for criminal charges related to the concealment of a device malfunction that produced inaccurately low lead test results for tens of thousands of children and other patients.
Magellan has been ordered to pay more
Mass. U.S. Attorney: Teva Pharmaceuticals Agrees to Pay $425 Million to Resolve Kickback Allegations
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Oct. 11 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts issued the following news release:
Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. and Teva Neuroscience, Inc. (collectively Teva) have agreed to pay $425 million to resolve allegations that Teva paid kickbacks via two co-pay assistance foundations in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) and False Claims Act.
The government's complaint, filed in 2020, alleged that from 2006 to 2017, Teva manipulated the more
MOHELA Was Caught Lying to Student Loan Borrowers, and Now It is Quietly Forcing Them to Waive Their Rights
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- Student Borrower Protection Center issued the following news release:
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Advocates Refer MOHELA to Federal Regulators for Prosecution
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The Student Borrower Protection Center and AFT sent a series of letters to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), warning federal financial regulators about potentially unlawful practices by the scandal-plagued st more
N.C. U.S. Attorney: Urine Drug Testing Laboratory and Owner Agree to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Oct. 12 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina issued the following news release:
U.S. Attorney Dena J. King announced today that LabXperior Corporation (LabXperior) and owner Tina Ball (Ball) have paid $235,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the Federal False Claims Act and North Carolina False Claims Act by knowingly billing North Carolina Medicaid (Medicaid) for urine drug tests that were medically unnecessary and r more
N.J. U.S. Attorney: TD Bank Pleads Guilty to Bank Secrecy Act and Money Laundering Conspiracy Violations in $1.8B Resolution
NEWARK, New Jersey, Oct. 11 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey issued the following news release on Oct. 10, 2024:
TD Bank, N.A. (TDBNA), the 10th largest bank in the United States, and its parent company TD Bank US Holding Company (TDBUSH) (together with TDBNA, "TD Bank") pleaded guilty today and agreed to pay over $1.8 billion in penalties to resolve the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey and the Justice Department's investigation into violati more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Federal Jury Convicts Retired DEA Agent of Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances
BUFFALO, New York, Oct. 11 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York issued the following news release on Oct. 10, 2024:
U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal jury has convicted retired Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Joseph Bongiovanni, 60, of Tonawanda, NY, of one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, four counts of obstruction of justice, and one count of more
Pa. U.S. Attorney: Former Correctional Officer Sentenced for Smuggling Mobile Phones Into Federal Detention Center
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Oct. 11 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania issued the following news release:
United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Lee E. Moore, Jr., 36, of Sicklerville, New Jersey, was sentenced yesterday to three years of probation with six months of home detention and a $5,000 fine by United States Magistrate Judge Scott W. Reid, all arising from Moore smuggling mobile phones into the Federal Detention Center in Phil more
Q&A: Afghan National Charged With Election Day Terror Plot
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
Q: What concerns did you raise immediately after the Biden-Harris administration's chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan?
A: The Biden-Harris administration's disorganized and disastrous exit from Afghanistan three years ago resulted in the tragic deaths of 13 U.S. service members by a suicide bombing. The images of Afghan civilians jumping onto and falling from a departing U.S. military aircraft undersco more
Sen. Hawley Reveals New Whistleblower Allegations: Secret Service Hiding Truth About Trump Protection
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, issued the following news release:
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U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) sent letters to both U.S. Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector General Joseph Cuffari, outlining a new whistleblower claim that Secret Service leadership is denying government auditors access to certain events in an effort to hide the fact former President Trump is not getting the highest level of protection.
more
U.S. Secret Service, Partners Hold Two-Day EBT Fraud and Card Skimming Operation in Illinois, Indiana
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Secret Service issued the following news release:
The U.S. Secret Service and state and local law enforcement partners completed a two-day payment card skimming and Electronic Benefit Transfer fraud outreach operation in Chicago and the surrounding areas, saving residents an estimated $1.8 million in prevented losses.
Personnel from the U.S. Secret Service, Chicago Police Department, Oak Brook Police Department, Valparaiso (Indi more
Utah U.S. Attorney: Utah Fraudster Sentenced for Selling 120,000 Fake COVID-19 Vaccination Record Cards
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Oct. 11 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah issued the following news release on Oct. 10, 2024:
The lead defendant in a scheme that manufactured, sold and distributed 120,000 counterfeit COVID-19 vaccination record cards was sentenced today.
Nicholas Frank Sciotto, 34, of Salt Lake City, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Tena Campbell to 12 months' imprisonment, three years supervised release, and ordered by the court to pay a $40,000 fine more
Cassidy Meets Vietnam Veterans in DeRidder
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Louisiana, issued the following news release:
ALEXANDRIA Yesterday, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) visited the local Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter in DeRidder, where he greeted veterans as they gathered for their monthly meeting and discussed what he can do to help them.
"I appreciate having the opportunity to speak with veterans on what we can do for them," said Dr. Cassidy. "My office helps vets every day get appointments at the more
Congressional Research Service: 'U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise - Background & Possible Issues for Congress' (Part 3 of 3)
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (TNSrep) -- - The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48194) on Oct. 3, 2024, entitled "The U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise - Background and Possible Issues for Congress:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 3)
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Possible Issues for Congress
As Congress conducts oversight of DOE's and NNSA's management, operations, and programs, and also authorizes and appropriates funds for NNSA Weapons Activities, it may address a range of issues. This section of more
Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Chair Lewis Expands Nuclear and Clean Energy Partnerships in London
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis travelled to London, United Kingdom this week to hold a series of meetings with private sector leaders and government representatives to underscore EXIM's commitment to expanding commercial ties in support of nuclear and clean energy exports."It was a pleasure to travel to London to high more
Grassley Investigation into FBI Sexual Misconduct Reveals 'Fox is Guarding the Hen House'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is shining new light on the prevalence of sexual misconduct at the FBI, amid continued agency stonewalling and empty assurances from Director Christopher Wray that he would "follow up" on Grassley's inquiries. Despite FBI's lack of cooperation, Grassley's ongoing oversight reveals the FBI is still not protecting its own employees from sexual harassment and is treating child s more
Grassley, Ossoff Laud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Prison Contraband Bill
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) applauded the Senate's unanimous passage of their Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act. The bipartisan bill aims to increase the penalty for smuggling or possessing a contraband cellphone in federal prisons from a misdemeanor to a felony. It now awaits passage more
Justice Dept.: 8 Charged in $68M Social Adult Day Care and Home Health Care Scheme
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Oct. 9, 2024:
An indictment was unsealed today in Brooklyn, New York, charging eight defendants for their alleged roles in a scheme to defraud Medicaid of approximately $68 million through the operation of two social adult day cares and a home health care financial intermediary that were paying kickbacks and bribes for services that were not provided.
According to court documents, Zakia Khan, 53, of Broo more
Justice Dept.: Mastermind of Multimillion-Dollar Penny-Stock Scam Indicted for Fraud and Obstruction
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Oct. 9, 2024:
A federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned an indictment yesterday charging a Michigan man with defrauding investors in Minerco Inc. (stock ticker MINE) -- leading to millions of dollars in investor losses -- as well as obstructing a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proceeding by destroying evidence.
According to the indictment, Bobby Shumake Japhia (Shumake), 56, als more
Justice Dept.: North Carolina Physician and Medical Practice Agree to Pay $625,000 to Settle Kickback Allegations
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
Dr. Eric Troyer, of Landis, North Carolina, and his medical practice, Troyer Medical Inc. P.C. (TMI), have agreed to pay $429,254 to the United States to resolve alleged False Claims Act violations arising from their involvement in laboratory kickback schemes. Troyer and TMI will pay an additional $195,746 to the State of North Carolina, which jointly funded claims paid by the North Carolina Medicaid progra more
La. U.S. Attorney: Bob Dean Jr. and Affiliated Corporate Entities Agree to $8.2M Consent Judgment to Resolve Allegations of Financial Misconduct Stemming From Evacuation of Nursing Homes During Hurricane Ida
BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, Oct. 10 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana issued the following news release:
Bob Dean Jr. and several companies that he owned and operated have agreed to an $8.2 million consent judgment to resolve allegations that they violated the National Housing Act of 1934 (NHA), by misappropriating and misusing the assets and income of four nursing homes in Louisiana before and after Hurricane Ida's landfall in August 2021. The four nursing hom more
Mont. U.S. Attorney: Former Whitefish Housing Authority Executive Director Admits Embezzling at Least $100,000
BILLINGS, Montana, Oct. 10 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana issued the following news release on Oct. 9, 2024:
The former executive director of the Whitefish Housing Authority today admitted to embezzling at least $100,000 from the organization, which receives federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Dwarne Lamont Hawkins, 46, pleaded guilty to theft from organization receiving fede more
N.C. A.G. Stein Announces $625,000 Health Care Fraud Settlement
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Oct. 10 -- North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein issued the following news release on Oct. 9, 2024:
Attorney General Josh Stein announced a $625,000 settlement with Dr. Eric Troyer of Landis and his medical practice, Troyer Medical Inc, P.C. over alleged laboratory kickback schemes. This money will be returned to state and federal health care programs - $429,254 to the federal government and $195,746 to the state of North Carolina.
"Doctors need to make decisions more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Eight Individuals Charged in $68 Million Social Adult Day Care and Home Health Care Scheme
BROOKLYN, New York, Oct. 10 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York issued the following news release on Oct. 9, 2024:
An indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn charging eight defendants for their alleged roles in a scheme to defraud Medicaid of approximately $68 million through the operation of two Brooklyn-based social adult day cares and a home health care financial intermediary that were paying kickbacks and bribes for services that were n more
Pa. U.S. Attorney: Generic Pharmaceutical Company Pays $25M to Resolve False Claims Act Liability for Price-Fixing of Generic Drugs
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Oct. 10 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania issued the following news release:
U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., a generic pharmaceutical manufacturer located in Parsippany, New Jersey, has agreed to pay $25 million to resolve its alleged liability under the False Claims Act for conspiring to fix prices and allocate markets for two generic drugs. This settlement is one part of an more
Sen. Ossoff's Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Contraband & Organized Crime in Federal Prisons Passes U.S. Senate
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Georgia, issued the following news release:
Senator Jon Ossoff's bipartisan bill to crack down on contraband and organized crime in Federal prisons has passed the U.S. Senate.
The Senate recently passed Sen. Ossoff's bipartisan Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act with bipartisan support, which would crack down on the smuggling of contraband cellphones into Federal prisons by upgrading the charge of smuggling of a contraband cellp more
Senate Homeland Security Committee Chairman Peters Urges Department of Defense Inspector General to Conduct Additional Oversight of PFAS Remediation Efforts in Michigan
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, sent a letter to the Department of Defense's (DoD) Office of the Inspector General calling for additional oversight and a comprehensive report on the department's efforts to remediate harmful per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFA more
Calif. U.S. Attorney: Two Los Angeles-Area Residents Arrested on Indictment Alleging Scheme to Fraudulently Obtain and Launder Medicare Proceeds
LOS ANGELES, California, Oct. 9 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for Central District of California issued the following news release:
A Los Angeles woman and a San Fernando Valley man were arrested today on a 24-count federal grand jury indictment alleging a scheme to defraud Medicare out of more than $54 million via hospice and diagnostic testing services that were never provided and then laundered their illicit proceeds, including by buying millions of dollars' worth of gold bars and coins more
DOD IG Issues Management Advisory on Use of Barcode Scanners for Conducting Inventories of Defense Articles Requiring Enhanced End Use Monitoring
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following management advisory on Sept. 27, 2024, regarding the use of barcode scanners for conducting inventories of defense articles requiring enhanced end use monitoring.
Here are excerpts:
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MEMORANDUM FOR UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR POLICY DIRECTOR, DEFENSE SECURITY COOPERATION AGENCY
SUBJECT: Management Advisory: The DoD Should Analyze the Use of Barcode Scanners for Conducting Inventories of Defense Articles Requirin more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on Evaluation of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command's Intelligence Sharing With Coalition Partners
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Sept. 30, 2024, regarding the evaluation of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command's intelligence sharing with coalition partners.
Here are excerpts:
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MEMORANDUM FOR COMMANDER, U.S. INDO-PACIFIC COMMAND AUDITOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
AUDITOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
AUDITOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
SUBJECT: Evaluation of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command's Intelligence Sharing with Co more
DOD IG: 'FY 2025 Comprehensive Oversight Plan Overseas Contingency Operations'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report on Sept. 30, 2024, entitled "Fiscal 2025 Comprehensive Oversight Plan Overseas Contingency Operations."
Here are excerpts:
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We are pleased to submit our annual plans describing oversight activities for Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) and Operation Enduring Sentinel (OES). These plans fulfill our individual and collective agency oversight responsibilities pursuant to the Inspector General Act of 1978, as amen more
DOD IG: 'FY 2025 Joint Strategic Oversight Plan For Operation Atlantic Resolve'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report on Sept. 30, 2024, entitled "FY 2025 Joint Strategic Oversight Plan For Operation Atlantic Resolve."
Here are excerpts:
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We are pleased to submit our annual joint strategic oversight plan describing oversight activities for the U.S. Government's response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and Operation Atlantic Resolve (OAR). This plan fulfills our individual and collective agency responsibilities pur more
DOD IG: 'Quality Assessment Review of Administrative Investigative Operations of Defense Health Agency OIG'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report (No. DODIG-2024-141) on Sept. 30, 2024, entitled "Quality Assessment Review of the Administrative Investigative Operations of the Defense Health Agency Office of the Inspector General:"
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Finding of Compliance for the Administrative Investigative System of Internal Safeguards and Management Procedures
On September 25, 2024, the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) completed a quality as more
DOD IG: 'Quality Control Review of KPMG LLP FY 2023 Single Audit of Carnegie Mellon University'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following evaluation report (NO. DODIG-2024-142) on Sept. 30, 2024, entitled "Quality Control Review of the KPMG LLP FY 2023 Single Audit of Carnegie Mellon University."
Here are excerpts:
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To: Managing Director, KPMG LLP
SUBJECT: Quality Control Review of the KPMG LLP FY 2023 Single Audit of Carnegie Mellon University (Report No. DODIG-2024-142)
This final report provides the results of the DoD Office of Inspector General more
DOD IG: Audit of Space Force's Implementation of Software Assurance for Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared Program - Report No. DODIG-2025-001
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2024:
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Audit
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released the "Audit of Space Force's Implementation of Software Assurance for the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared Program."
The audit examined whether the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next Gen OPIR) more
Education IG: 'Department's Compliance With Geospatial Data Act'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A24DC0187) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "The Department's Compliance with the Geospatial Data Act."
Here are excerpts:
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TO: Dr. Matthew Soldner, Acting Director, Institute of Education Sciences
FROM: Sean Dawson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit
SUBJECT: Final Audit Report, "The Department's Compliance with the Geospatial Data Act," Control Number ED-OIG/A24DC0187
more
Education IG: 'Linn-Mar Community School District's Use of Elementary & Secondary School Emergency Grant Funds'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. F24CA0171) on Sept. 27, 2024, entitled "Linn-Mar Community School District's Use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Grant Funds."
Here are excerpts:
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To: McKenzie Snow, Director, Iowa Department of Education, 400 E 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50319
Dear Director Snow:
Enclosed is our final report, "Linn-Mar Community School District's Use of Elementary and Seco more
Education IG: 'Lower Kuskokwim School District's Use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. F24NY0181) on Sept. 26, 2024, entitled "Lower Kuskokwim School District's Use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds."
Here are excerpts:
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To: Deena M. Bishop. Ed.D., Commissioner, Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, PO Box 110500, Juneau, Alaska 99811
Dear Commissioner Bishop:
Enclosed is our final report, "Lower Kuskokwim School more
Education IG: 'Oregon Department of Education's Implementation of Selected Components of Oregon's Statewide Accountability System'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A23IL0142) on Sept. 26, 2024, entitled "The Oregon Department of Education's Implementation of Selected Components of Oregon's Statewide Accountability System."
Here are excerpts:
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To: Dr. Charlene Williams, Director, Oregon Department of Education, 255 Capitol Street NE, Salem, OR 97310
Dear Dr. Williams:
Enclosed is our final audit report, "The Oregon Department of more
Energy IG: 'Allegations Concerning Ethics Violations at the Bonneville Power Administration'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Energy Inspector General issued the following inspection report (No. DOE-OIG-24-28) on Sept. 23, 2024, entitled "Allegations Concerning Ethics Violations at the Bonneville Power Administration."
Here are excerpts:
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In December 2023, the Office of Inspector General received two allegations of ethics concerns at the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). Specifically, the allegations stated that a BPA Senior Vice President violated ethics policies by: (1 more
Energy IG: 'Using "Lessons Learned" From Pandemic Relief Programs'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Energy Inspector General issued the following special report (No. DOE-OIG-24-31) on Sept. 25, 2024, entitled "Using "Lessons Learned" From the Pandemic Relief Programs."
Here are excerpts:
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September 25, 2024
Using "Lessons Learned" From the Pandemic Relief Programs, Which Suffered Substantial Fraud Losses to Protect the $4.257 Billion Made Available Under the Inflation Reduction Act's Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates Program
We initiated th more
Fla. Auditor General Issues Operational Audit on South Florida Water Management District
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Oct. 9 -- The Florida Auditor General released the following operational audit (No. 2025-028) on Oct. 4, 2024, involving South Florida Water Management District.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
This operational audit of the South Florida Water Management District (District) focused on selected District processes and administrative activities and included a follow-up on findings noted in our report No. 2021-102. Our operational audit disclosed the following:
Finding 1: more
Grassley Condemns Biden-Harris Admin for Ignoring Alarms about Afghan Evacuee Vetting, Resettlement Procedures
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today issued the below statement on the FBI arresting an Afghan native who secured a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) to enter the U.S. following the Biden-Harris administration's botched troop withdrawal from the region in 2021. The individual, now in federal custody, was plotting an ISIS-fueled terrorist attack on American soil in the coming weeks.
"I was highly vocal about the more
HHS IG Audit: 'Department Continues to Make Progress Toward Compliance With Geospatial Data Act'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The Health and Human Services Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A-18-24-03500) on Oct. 2, 2024, entitled "The Department Continues to Make Progress Toward Compliance With the Geospatial Data Act" filed under the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Here are excerpts:
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Report Highlights
Why OIG Did This Audit
* The Geospatial Data Act of 2018 (GDA) mandates that the Inspector General (IG) of a covered agency submit to Congress, not les more
House Homeland Security Committee Members Green, Pfluger Issue Statement on Arrest of Afghan National Suspected of Plotting Election Day Terrorist Attack
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- Rep. Mark Green, R-Tennessee, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2024:
This evening, House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Mark E. Green, MD (R-TN), and Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Law Enforcement, and Intelligence Chairman August Pfluger (R-TX), issued the following statement following the arrest of an Afghan national in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi has been charged by the Departmen more
House Oversight Committee Chairman Comer Presses USDA for Answers on Arbitrary Enforcement of Horse Protection Act, Seeks Transcribed Interview With Key Official
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- 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.) is continuing to conduct oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) enforcement of the Horse Protection Act (HPA) and its promulgation of a final rule titled Horse Protection Amendments. Information obtained by the Oversight Committee and recent actions at Te more
Justice Dept.: Bob Dean Jr. and Affiliated Corporate Entities Agree to $8.2M Consent Judgment to Resolve Allegations of Financial Misconduct Stemming From Evacuation of Nursing Homes During Hurricane Ida
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
Bob Dean Jr. and several companies that he owned and operated have agreed to an $8.2 million consent judgment to resolve allegations that they violated the National Housing Act of 1934 (NHA), by misappropriating and misusing the assets and income of four nursing homes in Louisiana before and after Hurricane Ida's landfall in August 2021. The four nursing homes, all of which were owned and operated by Dean an more
Justice Dept.: NH Learning Solutions Corporation Agrees to Pay $975,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Suit for Allegedly Inflating Post 9/11 GI-Bill Tuition Benefits
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2024:
The Justice Department announced today that NH Learning Solutions Corp. (NHLS) has agreed to pay $975,000 to resolve allegations that it submitted false claims to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for inflated educational assistance benefits under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 (Post-9/11 GI Bill). The United States filed suit against NHLS under the False Clai more
Kildee Leads Bipartisan Effort to Protect Michigan Residents from Harmful PFAS Chemicals
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- Rep. Daniel Kildee, D-Michigan, issued the following news release:
FLINT--Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-08),co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional PFAS Task Force, joined Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Inspector General Robert Storch requesting an updated report on DoD's efforts to clean up toxic PFAS chemicals at military sites--and in surrounding communities--in Michigan.
Congressman Kildee has long championed efforts t more
Mich. U.S. Attorney: NH Learning Solutions Corporation Agrees to Pay $975,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Suit for Allegedly Inflating Post 9/11 GI-Bill Tuition Benefits
DETROIT, Michigan, Oct. 9 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan posted the following news release on Oct. 8, 2024:
The Justice Department announced today that NH Learning Solutions Corp. (NHLS) has agreed to pay $975,000 to resolve allegations in a lawsuit that it submitted false claims to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for inflated educational assistance benefits under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 (Post-9/11 GI Bill). The more
Pa. U.S. Attorney Announces Additional Civil Settlement With Chiropractor and His Practice as Part of National Effort to Combat Electronic Stimulation Fraudulent Billing Scheme
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Oct. 9 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania issued the following news release:
United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Gregory Thomas White Jr, DC and Healing Place Medical, P.C. (collectively, "Healing Place") agreed to pay $170,000 to resolve liability under the False Claims Act for the alleged improper billing of "Sanexas" devices. This settlement is the latest action in the national investigation into the more
Rep. Comer Presses USDA for Answers on Arbitrary Enforcement of Horse Protection Act, Seeks Transcribed Interview With Key Official
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- Rep. James Comer, R-Kentucky, issued the following news release:
Congressman James Comer (R-Ky.) is continuing to conduct oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) enforcement of the Horse Protection Act (HPA) and its promulgation of a final rule titled Horse Protection Amendments. Information obtained by the Oversight Committee and recent actions at Tennessee Walking Horse shows reveals USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) may be exceed more
Reps. Kelly, DelBene, Bucshon, Bera applaud milestone for life-saving Medicare Advantage prior authorization bill
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (PA-16), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08), and Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) released the following statement after securing the support of a bipartisan majority for the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act(link is external) (H.R. 8702)(link is external) with over 218 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation would improve car more
Va. U.S. Attorney: Former Executive of Injured Child Benefit Program Pleads Guilty to Stealing Over $4.8 Million
RICHMOND, Virginia, Oct. 9 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia issued the following news release on Oct. 8, 2024:
A Providence Forge man pled guilty today to embezzling funds from his former employer, the Virginia Birth-Related Neurological Injury Compensation Program (Birth-Injury Program).
According to court documents, John Hunter Raines, 38, was the Chief Financial Officer and Deputy Director of the Birth-Injury Program. The Birth-Injury Program pays mone more
Chairman Green On the Arrest of Afghan National Suspected of Plotting Election Day Terrorist Attack
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- Rep. Mark Green, R-Tennessee, issued the following news release:
This evening, House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green, issued the following statement following the arrest of an Afghan national in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi has been charged by the Department of Justice with plotting an Election Day terrorist attack in the United States on behalf of ISIS. According to court documents, he entered the United States just days after the Biden more
Commerce IG Issues Memorandum on Audit of First Responder Network Authority's Oversight of User Eligibility for Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce's Office of the Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Oct. 3, 2024, regarding the audit of the First Responder Network Authority's oversight of user eligibility for the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR: Alan Davidson, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator, National Telecommunications and Information Administration
Joseph M. Wassel, Executive more
Commerce IG Issues Memorandum on Audit of NTIA's Allocation of BEAD Funds
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce's Office of the Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Sept. 18, 2024, regarding the audit of NTIA's allocation of BEAD funds:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR: Alan Davidson, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator, National Telecommunications and Information Administration
FROM: Arthur L. Scott, Jr., Assistant Inspector General for Audit and Evaluation
SUBJECT: Audit of NTIA's Allocat more
DOD IG Audit: 'E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Capabilities'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. DODIG-2024-136) on Sept. 19, 2024, entitled "E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Capabilities."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
The objective of the audit was to determine whether the Department of the Navy (Navy) effectively managed deficiencies identified during operational testing, to achieve the performance capabilities for the E 2D Advanced Hawkeye modifications.
The Assistant Secretary of the Navy has the au more
DOD IG Audit: 'Management of Dwell Time for Service Members in Reserve Components'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. DODIG-2024-135) on Sept. 17, 2024, entitled "Management of Dwell Time for Service Members in the Reserve Components."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
The objective of this audit was to determine whether Service members in Reserve Components, mobilized in support of the DoD's global mission requirements, received sufficient dwell periods in accordance with DoD and Service-level policies.
Dwell is the more
DOT IG: 'Continuous Monitoring Tools To Automate Cybersecurity Monitoring But Needs To More Effectively Detect, Prevent & Report Cybersecurity Threats'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. IT2024041) on Sept. 30, 2024, entitled "Continuous Monitoring Tools To Automate Cybersecurity Monitoring But Needs To More Effectively Detect, Prevent and Report Cybersecurity Threats."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
What We Looked At
Following a series of disruptive cyberattacks in the public and private sectors, the President issued an Executive Order in 2021 requiring civilian Federal agencies to p more
DOT IG: 'Department Has Made Significant Progress Meeting Requirements of the Geospatial Data Act of 2018 But Has Not Maintained an Accurate Inventory'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. IT2025001) on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "The Department Has Made Significant Progress Meeting the Requirements of the Geospatial Data Act of 2018 but Has Not Maintained an Accurate Inventory."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Our Objectives
To assess the Department of Transportation's (DOT) progress implementing its responsibilities under the Geospatial Data Act (GDA) as a (1) lead covered agency and (2) c more
DOT IG: 'Internal Controls for Capitalized Equipment Management Are Outdated & Ineffective'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. FS2024039) on Sept. 25, 2024, entitled "Internal Controls for Capitalized Equipment Management Are Outdated and Ineffective."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
We Looked At
The Department of Transportation (DOT) reported $12.9 billion in general Property, Plant, and Equipment (PP&E) in its fiscal year 2022 Agency Financial Report (AFR), including $4.2 billion in capitalized equipment. Federal agencies more
DOT IG: 'NHTSA Lacks Adequate Internal Controls To Comply With ONDCP's Requirements for Drug Control Fund Reporting'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. FS2024040) entitled "NHTSA Lacks Adequate Internal Controls To Comply With ONDCP's Requirements for Drug Control Fund Reporting."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
What We Looked At
The Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) advises the President on drug control issues and is responsible for developing and implementing the National Drug Control Strategy (the Strategy), a comprehensive plan with l more
DOT IG: 'Quality Control Review of Independent Auditor's Report on Assessment of Information Security Program & Practices'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. QC2024042) on Sept. 30, 2024, entitled "Quality Control Review of the Independent Auditor's Report on the Assessment of Information Security Program and Practices."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
What We Looked At
This report presents the results of our quality control review (QCR) of an audit of the Department of Transportation's (DOT) information security program and practices. The Federal Informati more
DOT IG: Cybersecurity Review of Federal Aviation Administration's High-Impact Systems
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit announcement on Sept. 17, 2024, entitled "Cybersecurity Review of the Federal Aviation Administration's High-Impact Systems:"
* * *
From: Kevin Dorsey, Assistant Inspector General for Information Technology Audits
To: Director, Audit and Evaluation, Federal Aviation Administration
In August 2021,/1 we reported that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had re-categorized 45 information systems from low more
DOT IG: Review of Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation's Acquisition Function
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit announcement on Oct. 4, 2024, entitled "Review of Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation's Acquisition Function:"
* * *
From: Carolyn J. Hicks, Assistant Inspector General for Acquisition and Procurement Audits
To: Administrator, Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation
The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation's (GLS) commercial maritime trade supports 14 more
DOT IG: Worksite Policies & Procedures Oversight
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit announcement on Sept. 17, 2024, entitled "Worksite Policies and Procedures Oversight:"
* * *
From: Tiffany Mostert, Assistant Inspector General for Audit Operations and Special Reviews
To: Assistant Secretary for Administration
Federal Aviation Administrator
Federal Highway Administrator
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator
Federal Railroad Administrator
Federal Transit Administrator
Great Lakes more
Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Extends Assistance to Customers and Lenders in Federal Disaster Areas Affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton and Recent Weather Events
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) announced that the agency is extending measures to assist customers, U.S. exporters, and financial institutions located in federal disaster areas declared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), due to the effects of recent and impending weather events.EXIM's assistance is in accord with the agency's genera more
FEC Names Susan Ruge-Hudson Inspector General
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Federal Election Commission issued the following news release on Oct. 7, 2024:
The Federal Election Commission today announced the appointment of Susan Ruge-Hudson as the agency's new Inspector General.
Ms. Ruge-Hudson comes to the Commission with nearly 15 years of experience in the federal government. She has served on leadership teams at the Department of the Interior Office of Inspector General (OIG), Government Publishing Office OIG, and Office of Personnel Manag more
Federal Housing Finance Agency IG: 'Agency Could Enhance Its Supervision of Federal Home Loan Banks by Incorporating Lessons Learned From Spring 2023 Bank Failures'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Federal Housing Finance Agency Inspector General issued the following evaluation report (No. EVL-2024-003) on Aug. 19, 2024, entitled "Agency Could Enhance Its Supervision of the Federal Home Loan Banks by Incorporating Lessons Learned from the Spring 2023 Bank Failures."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PURPOSE
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA or the Agency) increased its scrutiny of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLBank) System's lending more
Federal Housing Finance Agency IG: 'Agency's Disaster Recovery Exercise for Its General Support System Needs Improvement'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Federal Housing Finance Agency Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. AUD-2024-010) on September 25, 2024, entitled "Agency's Disaster Recovery Exercise for Its General Support System Needs Improvement."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PURPOSE
Pursuant to the Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014 (FISMA) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidance, agencies must establish, maintain, and i more
Federal Housing Finance Agency IG: 'DBR Provided Sufficient Oversight of Federal Home Loan Banks' Mortgage Programs'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Federal Housing Finance Agency Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. AUD-2024-011) on Sept. 25, 2024, entitled "DBR Provided Sufficient Oversight of the Federal Home Loan Banks' Mortgage Programs."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PURPOSE
To provide mortgage market liquidity, a Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLBank) may acquire conforming mortgage loans and loans guaranteed or insured by a department or agency of the U.S. government more
Federal Housing Finance Agency IG: 'DBR Provided Sufficient Oversight of Office of Finance's Debt Issuance & Debt Servicing Functions'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Federal Housing Finance Agency Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. AUD-2024-008) on Sept. 11, 2024, entitled "DBR Provided Sufficient Oversight of the Office of Finance's Debt Issuance and Debt Servicing Functions."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PURPOSE
The Federal Home Loan Banks' Office of Finance (Office of Finance) functions as the fiscal agent for each Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLBank). It facilitates the issuance and more
Federal Housing Finance Agency IG: 'DER's Supervision & Oversight of Enterprises' Purchases of Single-Family Loans in Special Flood Hazard Zone Areas Were Effective'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Federal Housing Finance Agency Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. AUD-2024-009) on Sept. 18, 2024, entitled "DER's Supervision and Oversight of the Enterprises' Purchases of Single-Family Loans in Special Flood Hazard Zone Areas Were Effective, But Improvements Are Needed."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PURPOSE
Floods are the most common and costly natural disasters in the United States. Under the National Flood Insurance more
GSA IG: 'Federal Acquisition Service's Office of Assisted Acquisition Services Should Improve Its Oversight & Administration of Classified Contracts'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (TNSrep) -- The General Services Administration Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A230065/Q/3/P24001
) on Sept. 16, 2024, entitled "Federal Acquisition Service's Office of Assisted Acquisition Services Should Improve Its Oversight and Administration of Classified Contracts."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Executive Summary
Why We Performed This Audit
The Federal Acquisition Service's Office of Assisted Acquisition Services (AAS) provides its customer age more
HHS IG Audit: 'Review of Medicare Administrative Contractor Information Security Program Evaluations for FY 2023'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Health and Human Services Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A-18-24-11300) on Sept. 30, 2024, entitled "Review of Medicare Administrative Contractor Information Security Program Evaluations for Fiscal Year 2023" filed under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Report Highlights:
Why OIG Did This Audit
* The Social Security Act requires each Medicare administrative contractor (MAC) to have its information se more
HHS IG Audit: 'States Could Better Leverage Coverage & Access Requirements To Promote Maternal Health Care Access in Medicaid Managed Care'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- The Health and Human Services Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. OEI-05-22-00330) on Sept. 30, 2024, entitled "States Could Better Leverage Coverage and Access Requirements To Promote Maternal Health Care Access in Medicaid Managed Care" filed under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Report Highlights:
Why OIG Did This Review
* The United States is experiencing a maternal health crisis, with worse outcomes her more
House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Green Requests Unredacted DHS OIG Report on DHS Failures to Vet, Screen Inadmissible Aliens Being Released, Allowed to Board Flights
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- Rep. Mark Green, R-Tennessee, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, issued the following news release on Oct. 7, 2024:
On Friday, House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Mark E. Green, MD (R-TN) requested an unredacted copy of a September 30, 2024, report by the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG), concerning the failure of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), more
Pennsylvania Man Admits To Trafficking Heroin and Cocaine into Connecticut
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Oct. 8 -- The U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration's New England Division issued the following news release:
Conn. Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ISRAEL MENDOZA, also known as "D-Nice" and "Israel Mandosa," 44, formerly of Reading, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribut more
Rep. Matt Gaetz Spotlights Partisan Smear Against DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari Following Swamp Screed Report Recommending His Firing
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Florida, issued the following news release on Oct. 7, 2024:
Today, in the wake of last week's swamp screed report recommending President Joe Biden fire the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector General (IG) Joseph Cuffari, U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) sent a letter to IG Cuffari highlighting the partisan campaign against him.
Rep. Gaetz's letter comes after a panel of Biden-Harris appointees on the Council of the Inspectors General more
VIDEO: Pressley Testifies at Boston City Council Hearing on USPS Service Failures
WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news:
"It is critical at every level of government, that we continue to keep the pressure on Postmaster Louis DeJoy as the impacts of his short-sighted efforts to dismantle and to privatize the USPS play out across our communities and impact our neighbors."
Video (YouTube)
BOSTON Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) testified at the Boston City Council's public hearing to discuss inadequate delivery serv more
Commerce IG Issues Memorandum on BIS' Export License Approval Process Reduces Risk of Threats From China's Military-Civilian Fusion Strategy
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (TNSrep) -- The Commerce Inspector General issued the following memorandum (No. OIG-24-036-A) on Sept. 23, 2024, entitled "BIS' Export License Approval Process Reduces Risk of Threats from China's Military-Civilian Fusion Strategy, but BIS Should Take Additional Steps to Mitigate Risks of Unauthorized Technology Release to China's Military:"
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR: Alan F. Estevez, Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security, Bureau of Industry and Security
FROM: Ar more
Commerce IG: 'Biennial Audit of Department's Compliance With Geospatial Data Act Requirements'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (TNSrep) -- The Commerce Inspector General issued the following report (No. OIG-24-035-A) on Sept. 19, 2024, entitled "Biennial Audit of the Department's Compliance with Geospatial Data Act Requirements."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR: Don Graves, Deputy Secretary of Commerce
FROM: Frederick J. Meny, Jr., Assistant Inspector General for Audit and Evaluation
SUBJECT: Biennial Audit of the Department's Compliance with Geospatial Data Act Requirements; Final Report more
Commerce IG: 'NIST Overstated MEP's Economic Impacts to Congress & Other Stakeholders'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (TNSrep) -- The Commerce Inspector General issued the following memorandum (No. OIG-24-037-I) on Sept. 25, 2024, entitled "NIST Overstated MEP's Economic Impacts to Congress and Other Stakeholders."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR: Laurie E. Locascio, Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and Director, National Institute of Standards and Technology
FROM: Richard Bachman, Assistant Inspector General for Audit and Evaluation
SUBJECT: NIST Overstat more
Education IG: 'Anchorage School District's Use of Elementary & Secondary School Emergency Relief Grant Funds'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. F24NY0179) on Sept. 19, 2024, entitled "Anchorage School District's Use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Grant Funds."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To: Deena M. Bishop. Ed.D., Commissioner, Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, PO Box 110500, Juneau, Alaska 99811
Dear Commissioner Bishop:
Enclosed is our final report, "Anchorage School Distr more
Education IG: 'Des Moines Independent Community School District's Use of Elementary & Secondary School Emergency Relief Grant Funds'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. F24CA0170) on Sept. 23, 2024, entitled "Des Moines Independent Community School District's Use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Grant Funds."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To McKenzie Snow, Director, Iowa Department of Education, 400 E 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50319
Dear Director Snow:
Enclosed is our final report, "Des Moines Independent Community School Dis more
Education IG: 'Florida Department of Education's Administration & Oversight of Emergency Assistance to Nonpublic Schools Grant Funds'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A23GA0135) on September 23, 2024, entitled "Florida Department of Education's Administration and Oversight of Emergency Assistance to Nonpublic Schools Grant Funds."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To: Office of Governor Ron DeSantis, State of Florida, The Capitol, 400 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0001
Manny Diaz, Jr., Commissioner, Florida Department of Educatio more
Education IG: 'Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District's Use of Elementary & Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. F24NY0180) on Sept. 24, 2024, entitled "Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District's Use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To: Deena M. Bishop. Ed.D., Commissioner, Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, PO Box 110500, Juneau, Alaska 99811
Dear Commissioner Bishop:
Enclosed is our final flash report, "Matanu more
Education IG: 'Southeast Polk Community School District's Use of Elementary & Secondary School Emergency Relief Grant Funds'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Department of Education Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. F24CA0173) on Sept. 24, 2024, entitled "Southeast Polk Community School District's Use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Grant Funds."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
To: McKenzie Snow, Director, Iowa Department of Education, 400 E 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50319
Dear Director Snow:
Enclosed is our final report, "Southeast Polk Community School District's Use of more
HHS IG Audit: 'Review of Medicare Administrative Contractor Information Security Program Evaluations for FY 2023'
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 -- The Health and Human Services Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. xxx) entitled "Review of Medicare Administrative Contractor Information Security Program Evaluations for Fiscal 2023" filed under the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Why OIG Did This Audit
* The Social Security Act requires each Medicare administrative contractor (MAC) to have its information security program evaluated annually by an independent en more
Sen. Paul Calls Out Biden Admin for Using FEMA to Respond to Border, Weakening Storm Response Readiness
WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 -- Sen. Rand Paul, R-Kentucky, ranking member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, issued the following news release:
Recently, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, along with Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Josh Hawley (R-MO), and Roger Marshall (R-KS), sent a letter to President Joe Biden calling out the Administration's reliance on the Federal Eme more
HHS Releases Public Communication From American Pharmacists Association
WASHINGTON, Oct. 6 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has released the following public communication dated Oct. 4, 2024, from the American Pharmacists Association:
* * *
To: Micky Tripathi, PhD, MPP
Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy, National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (Acting)
Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology
Attention: Health Data, Technology, and Interoperability: Patie more
Journalism Tipoffs from TNS
Ben Hunte Joins CNN as International Anchor & Correspondent
ATLANTA, Georgia, Oct. 15 -- CNN issued the following news:
* * *
Award-winning journalist will be based in Atlanta
* * *
Award-winning investigative journalist and news anchor, Ben Hunte, is joining CNN as an Anchor & Correspondent, based at the network's international headquarters in Atlanta.
He will host CNN Newsroom at weekends for morning audiences in EMEA, afternoon viewers in Asia, and late-night audiences in the U.S. on CNN International. He will also work across CNN programming as more
Chairman's Statement of the 12th ASEAN-United States Summit
VIENTIANE, Laos, Oct. 15 -- The Association of Southeast Asian Nations issued the following statement on Oct. 11, 2024, by Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, chairman of the 12th ASEAN-United States Summit:
* * *
1. The 12th ASEAN-United States (U.S.) Summit was held on 11 October 2024, in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The Summit was chaired by H.E. Mr. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. The Summit was attended by ASEAN Member States, the Honourable Antony B more
City St George's: "I See Progress But We're Impatient For Equality" - Expert Women Project Tips the Scales Towards Gender Equity in Broadcast News
LONDON, England, Oct. 15 (TNSres) -- City St George's, University of London issued the following news:
* * *
City St George's journalism conference reveals what progress has been made in ten years of the Expert Women On Air project.
* * *
By Eve Lacroix (Senior Communications Officer)
"I see progress but we're impatient for equality," said Right Honourable Baroness Harriet Harman at the Expert Women - 10 Years On conference, which was hosted at City St Georges, University of London.
The ev more
Evangel University Communication Students Travel to Austria to Present at 17th International Conference on the Inclusive Museum
SPRINGFIELD, Missouri, Oct. 15 (TNSres) -- Evangel University issued the following news release:
A team of six Evangel University students recently traveled to Vienna, Austria to present at the 17th International Conference on the Inclusive Museum. The event was held at the MuseumsQuartier on Sept. 13-15 and attracted global participants. The students were the only undergraduate-level representatives at the conference.
EU senior Zoe McIntyre (multimedia journalism) and junior Carson Twigg (str more
IPI and Media Organizations From Across Central and Eastern Europe Express Their Solidarity With Peter Bardy, Editor-in-Chief of Aktuality.sk, as He Faces a SLAPP Case Filed by Prime Minister Fico
VIENNA, Austria, Oct. 15 -- The International Press Institute issued the following statement on Oct. 14, 2024, with media and journalists' organizations:
* * *
We, the undersigned media and journalists' organizations, express our support for Peter Bardy, editor-in-chief of Aktuality.sk, as he faces a vexatious lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Robert Fico for use of Fico's image on the cover or the book 'Fico - Obsessed with Power'.
Fico is seeking Euros100,000 in damages from Peter Bardy and more
KU Professor Producing Films Documenting Indigenous Work to Reclaim Traditions
LAWRENCE, Kansas, Oct. 15 -- The University of Kansas issued the following news:
When Indigenous characters appear in film, they tend to be in stories of the past, showing a way of life that used to be. A University of Kansas professor is producing a pair of films documenting work of Native peoples to strengthen their communities, reclaim their traditions and move into the future. And the efforts are undertaken in memory of a friend who devoted her career to increasing Native representation and more
Leeds Trinity University: Flagship Journalism and Media Week Returns With Strong Line-Up of Industry Names
LEEDS, England, Oct. 15 -- Leeds Trinity University issued the following news on Oct. 14, 2024:
* * *
This year it takes place from Monday 4 to Thursday 7 November at the University's Main Campus in Horsforth.
* * *
Now in its sixteenth year, Journalism and Media Week welcomes industry experts from leading broadcast, newspaper, magazine, film, television and digital media outlets. This year, audiences will hear from national news journalists Cathy Newman (Channel 4 News) and Jeremy Bowen (In more
National Union of Journalists: 'Victory for Press Freedom' as Government Introduces Spying Safeguards
LONDON, England, Oct. 15 -- The National Union of Journalists issued the following news on Oct. 14, 2024:
* * *
Following a legal challenge by Liberty supported by the NUJ, state spying bodies will no longer be able to easily access journalists' communications.
* * *
From today, Monday 14 October 2024, bodies such as MI5 and MI6 must get independent authorisation from the Investigatory Powers Commissioner before searching for or holding onto confidential journalistic material they obtain thr more
News/Media Alliance Stands in Support of the Colombian Association of News Media's Call for Greater Support for the Free Press in Colombia
VIENNA, Virginia, Oct. 15 -- The News/Media Alliance issued the following news release:
The News/Media Alliance joins the Colombian Association of News Media ("AMI") in its call to highlight the dangers the free press in Colombia face, and for its plea to the people of Colombia to 'demand and defend their rights to freedom of expression, the right to information, and freedom of the press.' In its statement published on October 3, 2024, AMI reiterated the importance of journalism in keeping citi more
Poynter Institute to Provide Journalism Ethics Training to Local News Funders
ST. PETERSBURG, Florida, Oct. 15 -- The Poynter Institute issued the following news release on Oct. 14, 2024:
* * *
Partnership with Knight Foundation aims to help strengthen local news ecosystem
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Today, Maribel Perez Wadsworth, president and CEO of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, wrote about a partnership between the foundation and the Poynter Institute to educate philanthropic funders interested in supporting local news about journalism ethics and the importance of indepen more