Department of Labor Secures Agreement From Cleaning Contractor to Pay Penalties, Take Steps to Prevent Dangerous Child Labor Employment
WASHINGTON, Jan. 17 -- The U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division issued the following news release:
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Found QSI employed children for overnight cleaning shifts
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CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Labor has entered into an agreement with a Tennessee cleaning contractor that requires the employer to pay $400,000 in civil money penalties, monitor and audit policies to prevent the employment of children in dangerous jobs, and maintain a toll-free number for reporting concerns ab more
NCUA Releases Research Note on Overdraft, Non-Sufficient Funds Fees at Credit Unions
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Jan. 17 -- The National Credit Union Administration issued the following news release on Jan. 16, 2025:
The National Credit Union Administration today released a Research Note that provides an analysis of statistics for overdraft and non-sufficient funds fees, and observations on the relationship between overdraft and non-sufficient funds fees and other revenues.
"This Research Note provides important information for consumers, researchers, credit unions, and regulators a more
NCUA: Board Approves Annual Performance Plan
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Jan. 17 -- The National Credit Union Administration issued the following news release on Jan. 16, 2025:
The National Credit Union Administration Board held its first open meeting of 2025 and unanimously approved the agency's 2025 Annual Performance Plan.
"As I have often said, if you don't measure it, you can't manage it. That's what makes the NCUA's 2025 Annual Performance Plan so important," NCUA Chairman Todd M. Harper said. "This plan includes specific measures and ta more
State Dept.: United States Supports Development of Advanced Civil Nuclear Workforce Through Launch of Small Modular Reactor Control Room Simulator in Ghana
WASHINGTON, Jan. 17 -- The U.S. State Department issued the following news release on Jan. 16, 2025:
Today, the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana Virginia E. Palmer joined the Chief Director of the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology Rev. Dr. Patrick Nomo, along with the Nuclear Power Institute of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), and guests from across Ghana's academic, energy, and government sectors to officially launch the first NuScale Power Energy Exploration (E2) Center in Sub more
Unlock Your Health Through the Military Health System Nurse Advice Line
FALLS CHURCH, Virginia, Jan. 17 -- Defense Health Agency issued the following news:
Do you know what to do when you or a family member feels sick, but it's outside of business hours or it's the weekend? Should you go to an urgent care clinic or the emergency room, or wait until your doctor's office is open? Luckily, TRICARE has a service called the Military Health System Nurse Advice Line that can help when you need healthcare guidance.
"The MHS Nurse Advice Line is an excellent resource for T more
Va. A.G. Miyares: Virginia Files Motion for Nolle Prosequi in Loudoun Circuit Court
RICHMOND, Virginia, Jan. 17 -- Virginia Attorney General Jason S. Miyares issued the following news release on Jan. 16, 2025:
Today, Attorney General Jason Miyares filed a motion for nolle prosequi in the Circuit Court of Loudoun County in Commonwealth of Virginia v Scott Ziegler.
"Words cannot express how grateful I am to the office of and the Attorney General himself, for the unwavering support and dedication to this case. Their thorough investigation and research, including their dedication more
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Final Student Loan Forgiveness and Borrower Assistance Actions
WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Education issued the following news release:
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Biden-Harris Administration Announces Final Student Loan Forgiveness and Borrower Assistance Actions
The Biden-Harris Administration today announced its final round of student loan forgiveness, approving more than $600 million for 4,550 borrowers through the Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan and 4,100 individual borrower defense approvals. The Administration leaves office having approved a cumulat more
Contracts for Jan. 16, 2025
WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Defense issued the following news:
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Contracts for Jan. 16, 2025
ARMY
HGL-APTIM Technologies JV LLC, Reston, Virginia, was awarded a $49,000,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for environmental remediation services. Bids were solicited via the internet with two received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of Jan. 15, 2030. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City, Missouri, is the more
Crapo, Wyden, Bipartisan Senators Call on President Biden to Stop Rushing Trade Negotiations Behind Closed Doors
WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 -- Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, issued the following news release:
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Crapo, Wyden, Bipartisan Senators Call on President Biden to Stop Rushing Trade Negotiations Behind Closed Doors
Washington, D.C. \--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) led a bipartisan group of senators calling on the Biden Administration to direct United States Trade Representative (USTR) Katherine Tai to cease secret negotiations with for more
DAF to launch National Mentoring Month panels, programs, events
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas, Jan. 16 -- The U.S. Air Force Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (16th Air Force) issued the following news:
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DAF to launch National Mentoring Month panels, programs, events
ARLINGTON, Virginia - The Department of the Air Force Mentoring Program is launching a series of events throughout January 2025 marking National Mentoring Month. First launched in January 2002, National Mentoring Month is a call to action for all Airmen and Guardians to engage in more
Governor Glenn Youngkin Announces Favorable Ruling to End Settlement Agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice After 12 Years
RICHMOND, Virginia, Jan. 16 -- Gov. Glenn Youngkin, R-Virginia, issued the following news release:
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Governor Glenn Youngkin Announces Favorable Ruling to End Settlement Agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice After 12 Years
Governor Glenn Youngkin Announces Favorable Ruling to End Settlement Agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice After 12 Years
RICHMOND, VA - Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia more
Navy Relieves Naval Information Warfare Training Group Norfolk Commanding Officer
WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 -- The U.S. Navy issued the following news release:
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Navy Relieves Naval Information Warfare Training Group Norfolk Commanding Officer
Rear Adm. Brian A. Harding, commander of Naval Information Warfighting Development Center, relieved Cmdr. Sarah M. Quemada of her duties as NITWG Norfolk's commanding officer. NITWG Norfolk is a subordinate command of the Naval Information Warfighting Development Center command based in Norfolk, Virginia.
The Navy maintains the highe more
SBA Administrator Guzman Grants More Than $26M to Create 13 New Women's Business Centers
WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 -- The Small Business Administration issued the following news release:
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SBA Administrator Guzman Grants More Than $26M to Create 13 New Women's Business Centers
WASHINGTON -- Today, Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice in President Biden's Cabinet for America's more than 34 million small businesses, awarded $26.25 million to create 13 new Women's Business Centers (WBC) and support 17 existing WBCs ac more
U.S. Attorney for D.C.: Attempted Attack on the White House With a Rented Box Truck Results in 8-Year Sentence for Missouri Man
WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia issued the following news release:
Sai Varshith Kandula, 20, of St. Louis, Missouri, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 96 months in federal prison for an attempted attack on the White House with a rented truck on May 22, 2023, an attack that aimed to overthrow the democratically elected government of the United States in order to replace it with a dictatorship fueled by Nazi ideology.
The sentence w more
Unlock Your health through the MHS Nurse Advice Line
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas, Jan. 16 -- The U.S. Air Force Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (16th Air Force) issued the following news:
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Unlock Your health through the MHS Nurse Advice Line
FALLS CHURCH, Virginia -
Do you know what to do when you or a family member feels sick, but it's outside of business hours or it's the weekend? Should you go to an urgent care clinic or the emergency room, or wait until your doctor's office is open? Luckily, TRICARE has a service called th more
USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Transits to Norfolk Naval Shipyard for a Planned Incremental Availability Following Historic Deployment
PORTSMOUTH, Virginia, Jan. 16 -- The U.S. Navy's U.S. Fleet Forces Command issued the following news:
Dwight D. Eisenhower departed on its most recent deployment in Oct. 2023 and returned to Naval Station Norfolk in July 2024 having executed sustained operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. As the ship transitions to its maintenance phase, the focus shifts to ensuring its long-term mission readiness and technical upgrades to maintain its edge as a forward-deployed force and extend more
Va. U.S. Attorney: Former Army Officer and JAG Attorney Sentenced for Destruction of U.S. Army Property and Lying to Federal Investigators
LYNCHBURG, Virginia, Jan. 16 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia issued the following news release:
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Manfredo Madrigal Will Serve 54 Months In Federal Prison
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A former Army officer and attorney assigned to the United States Army Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School (JAG School) in Charlottesville, Virginia, was sentenced today to 54 months in federal prison on multiple federal charges related to his destruction of U.S. Army property a more
Va. U.S. Attorney: Roanoke Man Pleads Guilty to Killing Drug Supplier, Setting Body on Fire
ROANOKE, Virginia, Jan. 16 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia issued the following news release:
A Roanoke man, who robbed, shot, and killed his drug supplier then later burned the body to conceal his crimes, pled guilty today in Federal Court in Roanoke.
Joseph Richard Walker, 30, pled guilty today to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery and one count of possessing, brandishing, and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and a crime of more
Va. U.S. Attorney: United States Takes Possession of Union Hill House From Occupants Who Used It to Sell Drugs for Over a Decade
RICHMOND, Virginia, Jan. 16 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia issued the following news release:
A house in the Union Hill neighborhood of Richmond was ordered forfeited to the United States today based on its longstanding use as a drug-involved premises.
According to court documents filed in federal court, the house at 2221 Venable Street had been used by its occupants for over a decade both to sell and use a wide variety of drugs, including fentanyl, her more
GOVERNMENT - Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Budgeting for National & Defense Intelligence
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10524) on Jan. 6, 2025, by Michael E. DeVine, intelligence and national security analyst:
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Defense Primer: Budgeting for National and Defense Intelligence
Introduction
Intelligence Community (IC) programs include the resources (i.e., money and manpower) to accomplish intelligence-related goals and responsibilities as defined by the United States Code (U.S.C.) and Executive more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Child Welfare - Purposes, Federal Programs & Funding
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10590) on Jan. 6, 2025, by social policy specialist Emilie Stoltzfus.
Here are excerpts:
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Child Welfare: Purposes, Federal Programs and Funding
The Work of Child Welfare Agencies
Children depend on adults - usually their parents - to protect and support them. The broadest mission of public child welfare agencies is to strengthen families so that children can depend on t more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Digital Trade & Data Policy - Key Issues Facing Congress
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12347) on Jan. 6, 2025, by Danielle M. Trachtenberg, international trade and finance analyst.
Here are excerpts:
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Digital Trade and Data Policy: Key Issues Facing Congress
Digital trade includes trade in all goods and services for which orders are placed digitally. E-commerce generally refers to digitally ordered goods. Services that are digitally ordered may also be deli more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Global Human Rights - Security Forces Vetting
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10575) on Jan. 6, 2025, by foreign affairs specialist Michael A. Weber:
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Global Human Rights: Security Forces Vetting ("Leahy Laws")
The "Leahy Laws" prohibit U.S. assistance to foreign security force units when there is credible information that the unit has committed a "gross violation of human rights" (GVHR). Pursuant to the laws, before providing assistance, the U.S. g more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Homeownership
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12868) on Jan. 6, 2025, by housing policy analyst Katie Jones.
Here are excerpts:
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Homeownership
Over the past several years, notable increases in house prices and mortgage interest rates have heightened congressional interest in homeownership affordability, especially for certain groups such as first-time homebuyers. Multiple factors affect access to homeownership, includ more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on National & Defense Intelligence
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10525) on Jan. 6, 2025, by Michael E. DeVine, intelligence and national security analyst:
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Defense Primer: National and Defense Intelligence
The Intelligence Community (IC) is responsible for providing insight into actual or potential threats to the U.S. homeland, the American people, and national interests at home and abroad. It aims to do so through the production of tim more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on National Defense Authorization Act Process
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10515) on Jan. 6, 2025, by defense budget specialist Brendan W. McGarry and Congress and legislative process specialist Valerie Heitshusen:
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Defense Primer: The NDAA Process
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) provides authorization of appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD), nuclear weapons programs of the Department of Energy, and other defense-relate more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Navigating National Defense Authorization Act
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10516) on Jan. 6, 2025, by defense budget specialist Brendan W. McGarry and Congress and legislative process specialist Valerie Heitshusen:
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Defense Primer: Navigating the NDAA
The annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) has a history of regular passage. FY2025 marked the 64th consecutive fiscal year for which an annual defense authorization was enacted. Many polic more
Congressional Research Service Issues Insight White Paper on Canada's Digital Services Tax Act
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12399) on Jan. 6, 2025, by international trade and finance analysts Kyla H. Kitamura and Danielle M. Trachtenberg:
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Canada's Digital Services Tax Act: Issues Facing Congress
In June 2024, the Canadian government enacted Bill C-59, which included a 3% digital services tax (DST) - retroactive to January 1, 2022 - on certain revenue of large digital services providers active in more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on Circuit Splits From December 2024
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11258) on Jan. 6, 2025, by deputy assistant director Michael John Garcia:
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Congressional Court Watcher: Circuit Splits from December 2024
The U.S. Courts of Appeals for the thirteen "circuits" issue thousands of precedential decisions each year. Because relatively few of these decisions are ultimately reviewed by the Supreme Court, the U.S. Courts of Appeals are often more
Congressional Research Service Issues Legal Sidebar White Paper on North Atlantic Treaty - U.S. Legal Obligations & Congressional Authorities
WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11256) on Jan. 6, 2025, by Legislative Attorney Karen Sokol:
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The North Atlantic Treaty: U.S. Legal Obligations and Congressional Authorities
On July 21, 1949, the Senate passed a resolution giving its advice and consent to the ratification of the North Atlantic Treaty, the multilateral collective security agreement that established the North Atlantic Treaty Organizati more
Congressional Research Service: 'Arctic National Wildlife Refuge - An Overview' (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Jan. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. RL33872) on Jan. 6, 2025, entitled "Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR): An Overview."
The report is written by energy policy specialists Michael Ratner and Lexie Ryan and natural resources policy specialists Laura B. Comay, Eric P. Nardi and Mariel J. Murray.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
In the ongoing energy debate in Congress, one recurring issue has been the possibility of oil and more
Congressional Research Service: 'Arctic National Wildlife Refuge - An Overview' (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, Jan. 8 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. RL33872) on Jan. 6, 2025, entitled "Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) - An Overview:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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The Biological Resources
The biological value of the Coastal Plain rests on intense productivity in the short Arctic summer; many species arrive or awake from dormancy to take advantage of this biological richness and leave or become dormant during the remainder of the y more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Presidential Inaugural Parade - Past Practices & Congressional Considerations
WASHINGTON, Jan. 7 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10261) on Jan. 6, 2025, Congress specialist Jacob R. Straus and emergency management and homeland security policy analyst Shawn Reese.
Here are excerpts:
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The Presidential Inaugural Parade: Past Practices and Congressional Considerations
Every four years, following the swearing-in ceremony, inaugural address, and congressional luncheon at the U.S. Capitol, the newly sworn i more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on U.S. Agency for International Development
WASHINGTON, Jan. 7 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10261) on Jan. 6, 2025, by Emily M. McCabe, foreign assistance and foreign policy specialist.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S. Agency for International Development: An Overview
Background
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is the lead international humanitarian and development arm of the U.S. government. Established in 1961 to implement the Foreign Assistance A more
Congressional Research Service: 'Social Security Childhood Disability Benefits - Proposals in 118th Congress - In Brief'
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48321) Jan. 3, 2025, entitled "Social Security Childhood Disability Benefits: Proposals in the 118th Congress: In Brief" by income security analyst William R. Morton and social policy analyst Emma K. Tatem:
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Contents
Introduction ... 1
Social Security Overview ... 1
Childhood Disability Benefits Overview ... 1
Qualifying for Childhood Disability Benefits ... 2
Disability Requiremen more
House Science Committee Issues Report on NASA Streamlining Partnerships for Research & Education for Engineering & Science Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 -- The House Science, Space, and Technology Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-746) on the NASA Streamlining Partnerships for Research and Education for Engineering and Science Act (H.R. 7687), xxx. The report was advanced by Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Oklahoma, on Nov. 18, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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Purpose and Summary
H.R. 7687 supports interagency collaboration between NASA and other federal agencies. This bill amends title 51, United States Code, to authorize the tran more
House Ways & Means Committee Issues Report on Protecting American Seniors' Access to Care Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 -- The House Ways and Means Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-745) on the Protecting American Seniors' Access to Care Act (H.R. 7513), which aims to prohibit the Secretary of Health and Human Services from finalizing a proposed rule regarding minimum staffing for nursing facilities and to establish an advisory panel on the skilled nursing facility workforce. The report was advanced by Rep. Jason Smith, R-Missouri, on Nov. 18, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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I. SUMMARY A more
Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee Issues Report on First Responder Access to Innovative Technologies Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued a report (S.Rpt. 118-243) on the First Responder Access to Innovative Technologies Act (H.R. 3254), which aims to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish a process to review applications for certain grants to purchase equipment or systems that do not meet or exceed any applicable national voluntary consensus standards. The report was advanced by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, on Nov. 13, 202 more
Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee Issues Report on Strengthening Oversight of Federal Records Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued a report (S.Rpt. 118-235) on the Strengthening Oversight of Federal Records Act (S. 4042), which aims to amend Title 44 of the U.S. Code, to reform the management of federal records. The report was advanced by Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, on Nov. 12, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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I. Purpose and Summary
S. 4042, the Strengthening Oversight of Federal Records Act of 2024, would modernize the Federal more
ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico, Dec. 20 -- The American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico issued the following news release:
NEW YORK - New documents obtained by the ACLU reveal that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is actively considering proposals to expand its immigration detention capacity in at least six states across the country, including in California, Kansas, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Washington state. The records, obtained as a result of a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) la more
ACLU-N.M.: First Hearing in Carlos Doe V. ICE Exposes ICE's Lack of Accountability in Continuing to Detain Individuals at Torrance County Detention Facility
ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico, Dec. 20 -- The American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2024:
Today, a federal court held the first hearing in Carlos Doe v. ICE, a case that challenges U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) 2022 decision to certify the Torrance County Detention Facility (TCDF) as passing its overall performance evaluation. This certification allowed ICE to continue detaining people at TCDF despite dangerous and inhumane condi more
Blackburn, Ossoff Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Passes Senate
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tennessee, issued the following news release:
Yesterday, the Senate passed the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates:
"Last year, nearly half of surveyed Bureau of Prisons staff stated they had been sexually harassed or assaulted by an inmate. T more
E&C Republicans Request HHS Watchdog Investigate Promotion of Gender Transition Procedures for Children
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Washington, chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release:
In a new letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Inspector General Christi Grimm, House Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans requested an investigation into the strength, quality, and types of evidence-based scientific and pediatric medical literature relied on by the department to promote gender transition procedures for chi more
Ernst Blasts Biden's Gift to Bah Humbug Bureaucrats
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
WASHNGTON In response to public employee unions rushing to lock in telework agreements through 2029 at the 11th hour of the Biden administration, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) demanded the heads of 24 federal agencies immediately suspend all negotiations of telework privileges.
After her report exposed that 90% of federal employees are eligible to telework, Senate DOGE Caucus Chair Ernst additionally requeste more
Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Chair Reta Jo Lewis Highlights EXIM's Clean Energy Deals and Work with E.U. Companies During the International Economic Forum of the Americas' Conference of Paris
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Paris, France This week, Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) Chair Reta Jo Lewis delivered remarks during the International Economic Forum of the Americas' (IEFA) Conference of Paris and met with industry leaders in the pharmaceutical, finance, and renewable energy sectors. Over the course of the week, Chair Lewis highlighted EXIM's efforts to promote U.S. more
Justice Department Files Nationwide Lawsuit Alleging CVS Knowingly Dispensed Controlled Substances in Violation of the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
In a civil complaint unsealed today in Providence, Rhode Island, the Justice Department alleges that CVS Pharmacy Inc. and various subsidiaries (collectively, CVS) filled unlawful prescriptions in violation of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and sought reimbursement from federal healthcare programs for unlawful prescriptions in violation of the False Claims Act (FCA). CVS is the country more
Justice Dept.: Chemonics International to Pay $3.1M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Billing Under Global Health Supply Chain Contract
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2024:
Chemonics International Inc. (Chemonics), a private international development firm based in Washington, D.C. has agreed to pay $3,119,582 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting fraudulent claims for payment to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Chemonics disclosed the fraudulent billing to the United States in 2020.
The settlement (ht more
Justice Dept.: Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Indicted for Drug Distribution Conspiracy
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
A grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment today charging Special Agent David Cole of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), 50, of South Jordan, Utah, with conspiring with another HSI special agent to sell alpha-PHP, a drug commonly referred to as "bath salts," in Utah.
According to court documents, Cole and another HSI special agent used their status as federal law enforcemen more
Ky. U.S. Attorney: Sixteen Cardiology Practices to Pay Total of $17.7M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Inflated Medicare Reimbursements
LOUISVILLE, Kentucky, Dec. 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky issued the following news release:
Sixteen separate cardiology practices and associated physicians, located across 12 states, have agreed to pay amounts totaling $17,761,564 to resolve allegations that they each violated the False Claims Act by overbilling Medicare for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals.
Diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals are radioisotopes bound to biological molecules that target s more
Md. U.S. Attorney: Two Maryland Men Indicted for Unemployment Insurance Fraud Scheme of More Than $1 Million
BALTIMORE, Maryland, Dec. 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland issued the following news release:
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Defendants Allegedly Committed Aggravated Identity Theft by Using Identities of Victims in Connection with a Scheme to Wrongfully Obtain More than $1 Million in Unemployment Insurance Benefits
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A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging two Maryland men on federal charges related to a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $1 million in une more
Pa. Gov. Shapiro Appoints Attorney General Michelle Henry to Serve as Pennsylvania's State Inspector General
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Dec. 20 -- Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2024:
Governor Josh Shapiro announced the appointment of Attorney General Michelle Henry to serve as Pennsylvania's State Inspector General, effective January 21, 2025. With decades of experience as a prosecutor and now as our Attorney General, Michelle Henry will be prepared on day one to lead the Office of State Inspector General (OSIG) and continue protecting Pennsylvanians' more
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Wyden Investigation Highlights Dangers of Post-Dobbs Emergency Medical Care for Pregnant Women
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following news release on Dec. 19, 2024:
Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the findings of the Committee's investigation into eight hospitals that reportedly delayed and denied women emergency reproductive health care in potential violation of the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) post-Dobbs.
The Committee's report, "Practicing Amid 'a Min more
U.S. Attorney for D.C.: More Than a Dozen Cardiology Practices Will Pay Over $17.7M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Inflated Medicare Reimbursements
WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia issued the following news release:
The U.S. Attorney's Office announced today the resolution of False Claims Act violations against 16 separate cardiology practices and associated physicians, located across 12 states, and their agreement to pay a total of $17,761,564 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by overbilling Medicare for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. The U.S. Attorney's Off more
NEW YORK, Dec. 19 [Category: Law/Legal] -- The American Civil Liberties Union, an organization that works to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution and laws of the U.S., issued the following news release:
NEW YORK New documents obtained by the ACLU reveal that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is actively considering proposals to expand its immigration detention capacity in at least six states across the country, including in California, K more
Ala. U.S. Attorney: Former Doctor and Her Wife Sentenced for Fraud and Other Crimes
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama, Dec. 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama issued the following news release:
A former family practice doctor in Huntsville was sentenced today for drug crimes, health care fraud, and COVID-19 disaster relief fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona, FBI Special Agent in Charge Carlton Peeples, Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Steven L. Hofer, and Special Agent in Charge Tamela Miles of the Department of Hea more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on Evaluation of Demilitarization of Damaged, Destroyed & Expended Defense Articles Requiring Enhanced End-Use Monitoring in Ukraine
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Dec. 2, 2024, entitled "Evaluation of the Demilitarization of Damaged, Destroyed and Expended Defense Articles Requiring Enhanced End-Use Monitoring in Ukraine:"
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MEMORANDUM FOR UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR ACQUISITION AND SUSTAINMENT
UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR POLICY
COMMANDER, U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND
COMMANDER, U.S. EUROPEAN COMMAND
COMMANDER, U.S. TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
DIRECTOR, JOINT ST more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on Evaluation of Impact Protecting Department High Risk Personnel on Military Criminal Investigative Organizations
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Dec. 2, 2024, entitled "Evaluation of the Impact Protecting Department High Risk Personnel on the Military Criminal Investigative Organizations:"
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MEMORANDUM FOR DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION DIVISION
DIRECTOR, NAVAL CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIVE SERVICE
COMMANDER, AIR FORCE OFFICE OF SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS
SUBJECT: Evaluation of the Impact Protecting DoD High Risk Personnel on th more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on FY 2025 Review of Compliance With Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following memorandum on Dec. 3, 2024, entitled "FY 2025 Review of Compliance with the Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014:"
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MEMORANDUM FOR CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
COMMANDER, U.S. CYBER COMMAND
DIRECTOR, JOINT STAFF
DIRECTOR, DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY
ASSISTANT TO THE SECRETARY OF DEFENCE FOR PRIVACY, CIVIL LIBERTIES, AND TRANSPARENCY
AUDITOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT more
DOD IG Issues Memorandum on Oversight of Audit of FY 2025 U.S. Army Working Capital Fund Financial Statements
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Defense Inspector General issued the following report on Dec. 3, 2024, entitled "Oversight of the Audit of the FY 2025 U.S. Department of the Army Working Capital Fund Financial Statements:"
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MEMORANDUM FOR UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (COMPTROLLER)/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, DOD
DIRECTOR DEFENSE FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING SERVICE
AUDITOR GENERAL, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
SUBJECT: Oversight of the Audit of the FY 2025 U.S. Department of the Army Working Capital Fund Fi more
EIB provides EUR16.5 million for new public transport in war-torn cities of Ukraine
BRUSSELS, Belgium, Dec. 19 -- The European Investment Bank issued the following news release:
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has announced EUR16.5 million in EU-backed funding to renew urban public transport in Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Ivano-Frankivsk and Odesa. Backed by an EU guarantee, this operation is part of the EIB's Ukraine Solidarity Urgent Response package, developed in close collaboration with the European Commission. Building on the previously disbursed EUR17.25 million for transport upg more
Ernst Drains the Swamp
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
After her telework report revealed a chronically absent federal workforce, Senate DOGE Caucus Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) released her DRAIN THE SWAMP Act, which relocates at least 30% of Washington's federal workforce, requires the rest of the employees to show up to the office 100% of the time, and facilitates the sale of excess office space.
Last week, Senator Ernst, the incoming chair of the Senate Small Busin more
Export-Import Bank of the United States Board of Directors Approves More Than $300 Million in Transactions
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Today, the Board of Directors at the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) unanimously approved three transactions for more than $300 million.In the first transaction of the day, the Board approved a final commitment of more than $293 million to support the export of Boeing aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines. The transaction is expected to support an estimated 1 more
FinCEN Warns of Fraud Schemes That Abuse Its Name, Insignia, and Authorities for Financial Gain
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Crimes Enforcement Network issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) issued an alert today to raise awareness of fraud schemes abusing FinCEN's name, insignia, and authorities for financial gain. These FinCEN-specific fraud schemes include scams that exploit beneficial ownership information reporting; misuse FinCEN's Money Services Bu more
Ill. U.S. Attorney: Chicago Attorney Indicted on Immigration Fraud Charges
CHICAGO, Illinois, Dec. 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois issued the following news release:
A Chicago attorney has been indicted on federal fraud charges for allegedly providing false and fraudulent information to U.S. authorities to obtain immigration benefits for his foreign national clients.
GERARDO DEAN owned a law office in Chicago and represented a company that operated skilled-nursing facilities. An indictment returned in U.S. District Court in more
Minn. U.S. Attorney: Three Indicted In Medicaid Fraud Conspiracy Scheme
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, Dec. 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota issued the following news release:
A 13-count indictment charges three defendants with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering of proceeds derived from fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, between March 2018 and July 2024, Shawn Ashley Grygo, 37, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, Shantel Rene Magadanz, 34, of Stacy, Minnesota, and Heather more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Troy Man Charged With Pandemic Unemployment Insurance Fraud
ALBANY, New York, Dec. 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York issued the following news release:
Daion Morris, age 32, of Troy, New York, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Lucy Lang, New York State Inspector General (NYSIG), made the announceme more
S.T.O.P. Welcomes OIG Report on NYPD Violations of Surveillance Transparency Law in Drone Usage
NEW YORK, Dec. 19 (TNSres) -- The Surveillance Technology Oversight Project issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
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The Office of the Inspector General for the NYPD detailed the department's failure to comply with the landmark POST Act in its use of unmanned aircraft systems.
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Today, the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.), a New York-based privacy group, welcomes a report from the Department of Investigation's Office of the Inspector General for the N more
Sen. Romney Introduces COVID Spending Transparency Act
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, introduced the "COVID Spending Transparency Act" on Sept. 23, 2024. The text of the bill was released on Dec. 18.
S. 5140. A bill to extend by 5 years the term of the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
The bill is cosponsored by Sens. Margaret Wood Hassan, D-N.H., Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Mark R. Warner, D-Va.
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SECTION 1. Short title.
This Act may be cited as the "COVI more
Senate Energy Committee Ranking Member Barrasso: Inspector General Report Calls for Suspension of DoE Loan Program
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming, ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, issued the following statement on Dec. 18, 2024:
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U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources (ENR), released the following statement on the Inspector General's interim findings on conflicts of interest in the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office (LPO). Barrasso called on the Inspector General to inv more
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Wyden, Sen. Cortez Masto Investigate Billy Long Work Promoting Fraud-Ridden Tax Credits to Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Oregon, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following news release:
Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) wrote today to two organizations seeking information about the involvement of former Congressman Billy Long, Trump nominee for IRS Commissioner, in the sale of advice related to the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC), a fraud-ridden program that has cost taxpayers hundreds of more
Warren Urges Wellpath to Commit to Fair Payouts and Fair Notice for Incarcerated Patients During Bankruptcy Process
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Wellpath one of the nation's largest private providers of prison healthcare following its declaration of bankruptcy, urging them to ensure that incarcerated patients with credible, serious tort claims against the company as well as staff and other creditors receive fair notice and fair compensation in the course of Wellpath's bankruptcy proceeding more
Warren, Van Hollen, Jacobs Demand Answers on Horrific War Crime Cover-Up
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Representative Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, sent a letter requesting the Department of Defense (DoD) Inspector General investigate reports that the DoD mishandled a case involving U.S. Marines killing civilians in Haditha, Iraq, and D more
412th Test Wing Conducts Combat Readiness Exercise Amid Heightened Threats
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, Ohio, Dec. 18 -- The U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center issued the following news:
By Giancarlo Casem, 412th Test Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The 412th Test Wing conducted the largest combat readiness exercise in Air Force Materiel Command corporate memory Dec. 3 to 6, and followed up with a full-day community partner tabletop readiness exercise on Dec. 9 at Edwards Air Force Base, California. The exercise and associated inspection teste more
Center of the American Experiment Issues Commentary: Inspector General Report - the FBI and Jan. 6, 2021
GOLDEN VALLEY, Minnesota, Dec. 18 (TNSres) -- The Center of the American Experiment, a civic and educational organization that says it creates and advocates policies, issued the following commentary on Dec. 16, 2024:
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Inspector General Report -- the FBI and January 6, 2021
Written by David Zimmer
On Thursday, December 12, 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Inspector General (OIG) Michael Horowitz released his report entitled "A Review of the Federal Bureau of Investigation' more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Hospital Ownership
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12848) on Dec. 12, 2024, by health care financing analyst Marco A. Villagrana:
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Hospital Ownership: Medicare Sources of Information
Congress's understanding of hospital ownership is crucial in exercising its legislative and oversight role with respect to health care costs, quality, and access. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) - the agency that administers more
DOD IG: Management Advisory - Review of the DOD's Roles, Responsibilities for Facilitating Delivery of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Through Maritime Corridor - Report No. DODIG-2025-054
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Dec. 18, 2024:
Audit
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the DoD Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released the "Management Advisory: Review of the DoD's Roles and Responsibilities for Facilitating the Delivery of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Through the Maritime Corridor." The review examined the DoD's execution of its roles and responsibilities for fa more
Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Abu Dhabi Investment Office to Strengthen Trade Ties with UAE in Key Sectors
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Last week, Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) that will strengthen trade and investment ties between the United States and United Arab Emirates (UAE). The MOU will drive collaboration to support small and more
Guyanese National in ICE custody passes away at Miami-area hospital
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued the following news release:
MIAMI Ramesh Amechand, a 60-year-old citizen of Guyana in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was pronounced deceased by medical professionals at the Larkin Community Hospital Palm Springs campus in Hialeah, Florida, Dec. 16 at 4:50 p.m. An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death.
Amechand was admitted Nov. 19 as an in more
House Administration Committee Chairman Loudermilk Releases Second January 6, 2021 Report
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Rep. Bryan Steil, R-Wisconsin, chairman of the House Administration Committee, issued the following news release on Dec. 17, 2024:
Today, Committee on House Administration's Subcommittee on Oversight Chairman Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) released an interim report on his findings on the events surrounding January 6, 2021, as well as his investigation into the politicization of the January 6th Select Committee. This report outlines criminal recommendations against former Repre more
House Oversight & Accountability Committee Issues Testimony From U.S. Postal Service IG Hull
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The House Oversight and Accountability Committee released the following testimony by U.S. Postal Service Inspector General Tammy Hull from a Dec. 10, 2024, hearing on the oversight of the agency:
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Good morning, Chairman Comer, Ranking Member Raskin, and members of the Committee. Thank you for inviting me to discuss our work.
I am proud of the work my office completed this year to promote accountability, integrity, and transparency in the United States Postal Servic more
House Oversight Committee Members Comer, Fallon Issue Statement on Department of Energy Refusal to Reform Oversight Controls, Protect Taxpayers
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Rep. James Comer, R-Kentucky, chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, issued the following news release:
House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) and Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs Chairman Pat Fallon (R-Texas) issued the following joint statement after the Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Inspector General (OIG) released an interim report exposing the Biden Administrat more
Justice Dept.: Doctor Pleads Guilty in $5.5M COVID-19 Fraud Scheme
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
A Texas physician pleaded guilty today in connection with his role in a $5.5 million over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 test fraud scheme.
According to court documents, Mark Mazzare M.D., 57, of Tyler, purchased Medicare beneficiary identifiers (BINs) that were used to bill Medicare millions of dollars for OTC COVID-19 test kits, many of which had not been requested by the beneficiaries. Mazzare entered into more
Planetary Society Commends Congressional Leaders for Space Advocacy
PASADENA, California, Dec. 18 -- The Planetary Society issued the following news release:
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Bipartisan letter supporting higher NASA budget receives nearly two dozen signatures
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The Planetary Society, the world's largest independent space interest organization, commends the work of the Planetary Science Caucus in leading a bipartisan letter supporting a higher topline and addressing the challenges facing NASA as part of the fiscal year 2025 budget negotiations. The letter, addressed more
Senate Environment Committee Ranking Member Capito Demands Transparency on EPA Spending of Taxpayer Dollars Through IRA Grant Programs
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-West Virginia, ranking member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, issued the following news release on Dec. 17, 2024:
Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan outlining significant concerns regarding massive EPA spending on new programs arising out of the Democrats' more
Senate Passes National Defense Authorization Act Containing Over $11 Billion in Hirono-led Provisions to Strengthen National Security
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. Mazie K. Hirono, D-Hawaii, issued the following news release:
~ Within the FY25 NDAA, Hirono secured over $2 billion for infrastructure in Hawaii and over $9 billion for projects, capabilities, and exercises to support the Indo-Pacific region ~
Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, voted to pass the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Au more
Sens. Cornyn, Hassan Bill to Improve Contractor Services Along Southern Border Heads to President Desk
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, issued the following news:
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements after their DHS Border Services Contracts Review Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Under Secretary for Management to deliver a report assessing contracts for services performed along the U.S.-Mexico border and implement a plan to improve procurement and delivery of those services, passed the more
To The President's Desk: Sens. Hassan, Cornyn Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Border Security
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-New Hampshire, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements after their DHS Border Services Contracts Review Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Under Secretary for Management to deliver a report assessing contracts for services performed along the U.S.-Mexico border and implement a plan to improve procurement and delivery of those se more
Veterans Affairs Dept. Releases Public Communication From Veterans of Foreign Wars
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has released the following public communication dated Dec. 10, 2024, from the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.:
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To: Department of Veterans Affairs
810 Vermont Ave NW
Washington, DC 20420
RE: RIN 2900-AR94 Improving Accreditation Process and Strengthening
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Legal Education Requirements for Accredited Agents and Attorneys The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) is pleased to provide the following co more
Warren, Doggett Urge Medicare Administrator to Crack Down on Abuse by Private Insurers In Medicare Advantage
WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) urged the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to finalize rules to curb overpayments to private insurers in Medicare Advantage (MA).
The nonpartisan Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) estimates that private insurers in MA will overcharge taxpayers $83 billion this year alone. Most of these overpay more
Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain: Who Holds Bahrain's Torture Princes Accountable?
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Americans for Democracy and Human Rights in Bahrain issued the following news:
The process of transformation and progress toward democracy in any country necessitates implementing reforms within official state institutions, including the security and judicial systems. These reforms must adhere to a transparent, stringent accountability mechanism grounded in clear legal frameworks. Additionally, it is essential to establish a defined pathway that ensures equal rights for a more
Capito Demands Transparency on EPA Spending of Taxpayer Dollars through IRA Grant Programs
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-West Virginia, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan outlining significant concerns regarding massive EPA spending on new programs arising out of the Democrats' Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
"This rush on the part of your staff increases the ris more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Defense Spending & Your District
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (TNSrep) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12274) on Dec. 16, 2024, by military personnel specialist Kristy N. Kamarck and defense budget specialist Brendan W. McGarry.
Here are excerpts:
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Defense Spending and Your District
Defense spending touches every Member of Congress's district through pay and benefits for military servicemembers and retirees, economic and environmental impact of installations, and procuremen more
Ga. U.S. Attorney: Florida Woman Sentenced to Prison for Pandemic-Related Fraud
ATLANTA, Georgia, Dec. 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia issued the following news release:
Calah Williams has been sentenced for stealing Economic Injury Disaster Loan ("EIDL"), Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP"), and unemployment insurance ("UI") benefits made available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security ("CARES") Act during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Williams stole from programs designed to help the public during a global crisis more
House Education & Workforce Subcommittee Chairman Owens Issues Opening Statement at Hearing on AmeriCorps
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, chairman of the House Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development, released the following opening statement from a Dec. 11, 2024, hearing entitled "Examining the Policies and Priorities of AmeriCorps and Its FY 2024 Audit Failure":
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It is truly a great honor to be entrusted with ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively. With that honor comes serious responsibility: if we are more
House Education & Workforce Subcommittee Issues Testimony From AmeriCorps Acting IG Ravas
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- The House Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development released the following testimony by AmeriCorps Acting Inspector General Stephen H. Ravas from a Dec. 11, 2024, hearing entitled "Examining the Policies and Priorities of AmeriCorps and Its FY 2024 Audit Failure":
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Chairwoman Foxx, Ranking Member Scott, Chairman Owens, Ranking Member Wilson, and Members of the Subcommittee:
Thank you for the opportunity to testify today more
House Education & Workforce Subcommittee Issues Testimony From AmeriCorps CEO Smith
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- The House Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development released the following testimony by AmeriCorps CEO Michael D. Smith from a Dec. 11, 2024, hearing entitled "Examining the Policies and Priorities of AmeriCorps and Its FY 2024 Audit Failure":
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Chairwoman Foxx, Ranking Member Scott, Chairman Owens, Ranking Member Wilson, and Members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to testify on AmeriCorps' progress in a more
Veterans Legislative Package With Sen. Boozman Provisions Passes Senate, Heads to U.S. House
WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Sen. John Boozman, R-Arkansas, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a senior member of the Veterans' Affairs committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee, welcomed Senate passage of the Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. The legislation will now go the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.
more
DOD IG: Audit of Cybersecurity of DOD Classified Mobile Devices - Report No. DODIG-2025-053
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Dec. 16, 2024:
Audit
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released the "Audit of Cybersecurity of DoD Classified Mobile Devices." The audit reviewed the effectiveness of select cybersecurity controls to protect DoD classified mobile devices and the classified information accessed, transferre more
DOD IG: Audit of the Navy's Accelerated Promotion Programs - Report No. DODIG-2025-052
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General issued the following news release on Dec. 16, 2024:
Audit
Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) released the report "Audit of the Navy's Accelerated Promotion Programs." The audit assessed the impact of the Navy's lack of legal authority over the Accelerated Promotion Programs (APPs) on employees hired in 2016 at the Navy's four more
Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Professional Aviation Safety Specialists
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation released the following written testimony by Dave Spero, national president of Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, from a Dec. 12, 2024, hearing entitled "U.S. Air Traffic Control Systems, Personnel and Safety":
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Chair Duckworth, Ranking Member Moran and members of the subcommittee, thank you for inviting me to testify on behalf of the Professional Aviatio more
Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Reason Foundation Senior Transportation Policy Analyst Scribner
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation released the following testimony by Marc Scribner, senior transportation policy analyst at Reason Foundation, from a Dec. 12, 2024, hearing entitled "U.S. Air Traffic Control Systems, Personnel and Safety":
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Chair Duckworth, Ranking Member Moran, and Members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. My name is Marc Scribner more
Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Crapo Issues Remarks at Open Executive Session on Treasury Nomination
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, ranking member Senate Finance Committee released the following remarks from a Dec. 5, 2024, from an open executive session to consider the nomination of David Samuel Johnson to be Treasury inspector general for tax administration:
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"Mr. Johnson has been nominated to serve as Inspector General for Tax Administration at the Department of the Treasury.
"Mr. Johnson has strong qualifications and oversight experience, and I appreciate his servi more
Senate Rules and Administration Committee Issues Testimony From U.S. Capitol Police Chief Manger
WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 -- The Senate Rules and Administration Committee released the following testimony by U.S. Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger from a Dec. 11, 2024, hearing on the oversight of the agency:
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Chairwoman Klobuchar, Ranking Member Fischer and Members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to provide an overview of the comprehensive security improvements the Department has implemented, from an enhanced planning and preparation posture to a completely revamped Inte more
Justice Dept. Announces Resolution of Criminal, Civil Investigations Into McKinsey & Company's Work With Purdue Pharma
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
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Former McKinsey Senior Partner Charged With Obstruction of Justice
McKinsey Will Pay $650 Million, Cease Work Relating to Controlled Substances and Implement Significant New Compliance Measures
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McKinsey & Company Inc. (McKinsey), a global management consulting firm based in New York, has agreed to pay $650 million to resolve a criminal and civil investigation into the firm's consulting work more
Justice Dept.: California Hospital to Pay $10.25M to Resolve False Claims Allegations
WASHINGTON, Dec. 12 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
Oroville Hospital, located in Oroville, California, has agreed to pay $10,250,000, to the United States and the State of California to resolve allegations that it knowingly submitted false claims to Medicare and Medicaid arising from medically unnecessary inpatient hospital admissions, a kickback and physician self-referral scheme and the use of erroneous diagnosis codes. Oroville Hospital will pay $9,518,9 more
Justice Dept.: Doctor Charged for Unlawful Distribution of Oxycodone and Other Controlled Substances
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
A New Jersey doctor was arrested yesterday for unlawfully distributing oxycodone and other controlled substances.
According to court documents, Larry Pettis, 76, of Westampton, owned a medical practice that had multiple locations in New Jersey that purported to provide pain management and other services. Pettis allegedly pre-signed prescriptions for controlled substances so that another individual, who was more
Justice Dept.: U.S. Settles False Claims Act Allegations Against Pharmaceutical Distributor for Paying Kickbacks Through Inventory Management Systems
WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
ASD Specialty Healthcare LLC (ASD), doing business as Besse Medical (Besse), has agreed to pay $1.67 million to resolve allegations that it violated the Anti-Kickback Statute and False Claims Act by providing inventory management systems to retina practices at no cost to induce them to purchase drugs from Besse. ASD, headquartered in Carrollton, Texas, distributes specialty medical and pharmaceutical produc more
Principal Deputy Assistant A.G. Boynton Delivers Remarks Announcing Resolution of Criminal, Civil Investigations Into McKinsey & Co. Work With Purdue Pharma
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Dec. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following remarks by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian Boynton announcing the resolution of criminal and civil investigations into McKinsey & Co.'s work with Purdue Pharma LP:
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As Prepared for Delivery
Good afternoon. My name is Brian Boynton. I am the Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division at the Justice Department. In that role, I serve as the head of the Civil Divi more
Journalism Tipoffs from TNS
CPJ: Journalist Jailings Near Record High in 2024 as Crackdown on Press Freedom Grows
NEW YORK, Jan. 17 -- The Committee to Protect Journalists issued the following news release:
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China, Israel, and Myanmar lead the world's top jailers of journalists
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The number of journalists jailed worldwide reached a near all-time high in 2024, according to a new report (https://cpj.org/?p=445451) released by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). China, Israel, and Myanmar were the leading jailers of reporters, followed by Belarus and Russia.
A total of 361 journalists wer more
FCC Chair Rosenworcel Issues Statement on Preserving the First Amendment
WASHINGTON, Jan. 17 -- The Federal Communications Commission issued the following statement on Jan. 16, 2025, by Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel on an action entitled "Preserving the First Amendment, Letters involving WPVI-TV and WCBS and Orders involving WNBC and WTXF-TV" (GN Docket No. 25-11):
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The First Amendment is a cornerstone of our democracy. By restricting the government from making laws that impair freedom of speech, the First Amendment preserves our right to express ourselves. T more
From Mizzou to Meta, Katie Yaeger Blends Creativity and Strategy on a Global Scale
COLUMBIA, Missouri, Jan. 17 -- The University of Missouri's School of Journalism issued the following news release:
Katie Yaeger, BJ '15, MA '17, discovered her passion for blending creativity and strategy while at the Missouri School of Journalism. Now a content design manager at Meta, she supports internal teams in tooling, accessibility and internationalization, which enable designers to ship out experience for billions of users across Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and other platforms in Met more
GBH to Spotlight Community Leaders With GBH Amplifies
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Jan. 17 -- GBH, a multiplatform creator for public media, issued the following news release on Jan. 16, 2025:
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Community conversations continue in person at Boston Public Library Jan. 30, watch on YouTube starting Jan. 20
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GBH today announced a community conversation series, GBH Amplifies , focused on expanding the reach of local voices from Greater Boston and beyond. The series features community leaders hosting public conversations in the GBH Studio at the more
Poynter Hires Two New Faculty Members With Focus on Strengthening Local News
ST. PETERSBURG, Florida, Jan. 17 -- The Poynter Institute issued the following news release:
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The appointments will focus on education for funders who want to support local news and newsroom transformation and leadership
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The Poynter Institute, a global leader in journalism, is proud to announce the hiring of two new faculty members for key roles advancing the sustainability of local news.
Megan Griffith-Greene, most recently the service journalism editor at The Washington Post, more
Amid NCAA Inaction, University Of Nevada Reno Women's Volleyball Players Fight To Keep Women's Sports Female
WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 [Category: Political] -- The Independent Women's Forum issued the following news release:
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Amid NCAA Inaction, University Of Nevada Reno Women's Volleyball Players Fight To Keep Women's Sports Female
WASHINGTON, D.C. - IW Features, the grassroots storytelling and original journalism platform of Independent Women, announced two new female athlete profiles highlighting Kinsley Singleton and McKenna Dressel, members of the women's volleyball team at the University of Nev more
Media Tip Sheet: Biden's Final Call to Protect Democracy and Reject Growing Oligarchy
WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 -- George Washington University issued the following news:
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Media Tip Sheet: Biden's Final Call to Protect Democracy and Reject Growing Oligarchy
In his final Oval Office address, President Joe Biden reflected on his legacy, warning against the dangers of rising oligarchy, misinformation, and unchecked technology.
He called on Americans to remain engaged in democracy, emphasizing the need to uphold fairness, protect institutions, and lead in the responsible developm more
PHOTO RELEASE: Governor Healey Unveils State House Archival Photography Project
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Jan. 16 -- Gov. Maura Healey, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
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PHOTO RELEASE: Governor Healey Unveils State House Archival Photography Project
Boston -- Ahead of her second State of the Commonwealth Address, Governor Maura Healey unveiled a new photography display featuring archival film images of the State House from the 1920-1940s alongside equivalent modern-day film photographs. The images echo the path the Governor traditionally takes from h more
Theatre Survey Journal Issues Research Articles in January 2025 Edition
BOULDER, Colorado, Jan. 16 -- Theatre Survey, a peer-reviewed journal from the American Society for Theatre Research, published research articles on the following topics in its January 2025 edition (Vol. 66, Issue 1):
Article
* The Avant-Garde Practices of Gwendolen Bishop
* Love Me: From Politics to Ethics at the Berliner Ensemble
* (Re)Imagining the Polis: Audience Participation as Postdramatic Discourse
* Pioneering Turkish Muslim Actresses: Afife Jale and Bedia Muvahhit's Trajectories i more
