Fed: Quantifying Deregulation and Its Economic Effects: A Large Language Model Approach
WASHINGTON, March 15 (TNSRep) -- The Federal Reserve issued the following white paper (No. 2026-1433) in March 2026 by Danilo Cascaldi-Garcia and Matteo Iacoviello entitled "Quantifying Deregulation and its Economic Effects: A Large Language Model Approach".
Here are excerpts:
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We construct a news-based index of deregulation for the United States from 1960 through 2025 using AI to semantically classify newspaper articles. We distinguish articles discussing deregulation from those discus more
University of Miami Business School: Takeaways From Real Estate Industry Leaders
CORAL GABLES, Florida, March 10 -- The University of Miami's Miami Herbert Business School issued the following news:
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Takeaways from real estate industry leaders
Leaders at the 14th annual Real Estate Impact Conference shared pointers about the industry, the economy, and the nuance of making deals.
Real Estate Impact Conference
By Janette Neuwahl Tannen
There was insight from leaders coming into their own in the real estate industry, such as Nadeem Meghji, Blackstone Real Estate's gl more
Rutgers-Camden Unveils Transformative AI Campus Initiative
CAMDEN, New Jersey, March 9 -- Rutgers University Camden campus issued the following news:
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Rutgers-Camden Unveils Transformative AI Campus Initiative
By Caroline Brobeil
As the Philadelphia region's only partner in the National AI Campus network, the university joins a cross-disciplinary effort to advance AI literacy, responsible innovation, and workforce development in South Jersey and beyond.
On February 18, students, faculty, and staff gathered in the Campus Center to celebrate the more
UPenn School of Social Policy & Practice: Shaping the Future of Responsible AI - A Q&A With Daniel S. Schiff, MSSP'13
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, March 9 -- The University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice issued the following Q&A by Carson Easterly with Daniel S. Schiff, assistant professor and co-director of the Governance and Responsible AI Lab at Purdue University:
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Shaping the future of responsible AI: A Q&A with Daniel S. Schiff, MSSP'13
MSSP alumnus Daniel S. Schiff, MSSP'13, has built a career at the forefront of responsible AI, grounding his work in ethics, social impact, and more
Congressional Research Service Reports (Weekly)
H.R. 4776, Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13180) on March 10, 2026, by environmental policy analyst Heather McPherron and legislative attorney Kristen Hite.
Here are excerpts:
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H.R. 4776, Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act (SPEED Act), as Passed by the House
H.R. 4776, the Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act (SPEED Act) as engrossed in the House of Repre more
Impact of Generative AI on Labor Markets - Frameworks Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13182) on March 10, 2026, by labor policy analyst Elizabeth Weber Handwerker:
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The Impact of Generative AI on Labor Markets: Frameworks
Rapid advancements in the capability and availability of artificial intelligence (AI) - particularly of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), a subset of AI that can generate new content - have been accompanied by concerns that thes more
Implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act of 2023 & Retroactivity for Benefit Applications Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13181) on March 10, 2026, by social policy analyst Zhe Li:
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Implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act of 2023 and Retroactivity for Benefit Applications
The Social Security Fairness Act of 2023 (SSFA, P.L. 118-273), signed into law on January 5, 2025, repealed two Social Security provisions - the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provis more
India-U.S. - Major Arms Transfers & Military Exercises Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12438) on March 10, 2026, by South Asian affairs specialist K. Alan Kronstadt:
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India-U.S.: Major Arms Transfers and Military Exercises
In October 2025, India's defense minister - in the course of inking a third 10-year defense framework agreement with the United States - called defense "the major pillar" of bilateral ties. The latest pact, meant to strengthen "interopera more
National Flood Insurance Program Borrowing Authority Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN10784) on March 10, 2026, by Diane P. Horn, flood insurance and emergency management specialist.
Here are excerpts:
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National Flood Insurance Program Borrowing Authority
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. On February 10, 2025, the NFIP bo more
National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration FY2026 Budget Request & Appropriations Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13024) on March 12, 2026, by natural resource policy specialist Eva Lipiec.
Here are excerpts:
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) FY2026 Budget Request and Appropriations
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is an agency in the Department of Commerce. NOAA's stated mission is to understand and predict changes in climate, weather more
U.S. Military Operations Against Iran - Munitions & Missile Defense Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12668) on March 12, 2026, by defense policy analysts Hannah D. Dennis and Daniel M. Gettinger:
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Congress has expressed interest in the status of the U.S. military's inventories of munitions (e.g., ammunition, bombs, missiles, torpedoes, anti-aircraft weapons, missile interceptors). Since the United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran on February 28, more
Hydrofluorocarbon Phasedown - Background & Issues Facing Congress Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 12 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11779) on March 11, 2026, by environmental policy analyst Kathryn G. Kynett and legislative attorney Kristen Hite.
Here are excerpts:
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Hydrofluorocarbon Phasedown: Background and Issues Facing Congress
The United States is phasing down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020 (AIM) (P.L. 116-260, Division S, Sec.103; codified more
International Agreements & Non-binding Instruments - The Case-Zablocki Act Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 12 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11403) on March 11, 2026, by legislative attorney Karen Sokol:
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International Agreements and Non-binding Instruments: The Case-Zablocki Act (Case Act)
In the early 1970s, Congress passed legislation to address concerns that Presidents were increasingly bypassing the Article II treaty process by using executive agreements to make international legal commitments for t more
Offshore Energy Agency Appropriations, FY2025 Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 12 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12782) on March 11, 2026, 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 Man more
Prospects for U.S.-Saudi Nuclear Energy Cooperation Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 12 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10799) on March 11, 2026, by nonproliferation specialist Paul K. Kerr and Middle Eastern affairs specialist Christopher M. Blanchard:
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Prospects for U.S.-Saudi Nuclear Energy Cooperation
The 119th Congress may engage the Trump Administration with regard to U.S. policy toward Saudi Arabia's National Project for Atomic Energy and proposals for U.S.-Saudi nuclear energy coop more
Trump Administration Actions to Curtail Offshore Wind Energy Development Meet Judicial Resistance Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 12 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11402) on March 11, 2026, by legislative attorney Adam Vann:
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Trump Administration Actions to Curtail Offshore Wind Energy Development Meet Judicial Resistance
In 2025 the Trump Administration took a number of actions that could affect the continued development and use of renewable energy resources, especially offshore wind energy projects. These actions, which incl more
Trump Administration's Cyber Strategy Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 12 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12667) on March 11, 2026, by cybersecurity policy specialist Chris Jaikaran:
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The Trump Administration's Cyber Strategy
On March 6, 2026, the White House released President Trump's Cyber Strategy for America (the strategy). The document builds upon earlier cyber-related actions and describe the Administration's policies and postures on cybersecurity. This Insight describes more
China's Political System Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 11 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12505) on March 10, 2026, by Asian affairs specialist Susan V. Lawrence.
Here are excerpts:
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China Primer: China's Political System
The People's Republic of China (PRC, or China) is the only Communist Party-led state among the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and among the G-20 major economies. As Congress has intensified its focus on China o more
FY2026 Appropriations for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Water Infrastructure Programs Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 11 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13177) on March 9, 2026, by environmental policy specialists Jonathan L. Ramseur and Elena H. Humphreys.
Here are excerpts:
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FY2026 Appropriations for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Water Infrastructure Programs
Many policymakers and stakeholders have raised concerns about the condition of the nation's local drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and th more
Interest Rate Caps on Credit Cards - Policy Issues Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 11 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12861) on March 10, 2026, by financial economics specialists Karl E. Schneider and Andrew P. Scott.
Here are excerpts:
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Interest Rate Caps on Credit Cards: Policy Issues
While the cost of financial services is a perennial topic of congressional debate, Congress has recently paid particular attention to the costs associated with credit cards, one of the most popular payme more
Prescription Drug Importation Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 11 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11056) on March 10, 2026, by health policy specialist Amanda K. Sarata:
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Prescription Drug Importation
In the context of rising drug prices, commercial and personal importation of prescription drugs from other countries at lower prices is often a subject of discussion. Generally, the importation or reimportation of a prescription drug that does not meet Federal Food, Drug more
Security of Weapons of Mass Destruction-Related Materials in the Iran Conflict Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 11 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12666) on March 9, 2026, by nonproliferation specialist Mary Beth D. Nikitin:
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Security of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)-Related Materials in the Iran Conflict: Considerations for Congress
As U.S. military operations in Iran continue, Congress may examine how U.S. and partner forces plan to address potential loss of control by Iranian authorities of weapons of mass des more
U.S. Army's Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense System - SGT Stout Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 11 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12397) on March 10, 2026, by Military Ground Forces specialist Andrew Feickert and Army fellow Ebrima M'Bai.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S. Army's Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense (MSHORAD) System - SGT Stout
Background
The Army is developing a new maneuver short-range air defense system (M-SHORAD) to perform short-range air defense (SHORAD). On June 14, 2024, the Army design more
Decennial Census of Population & Housing Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 10 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12909) on March 9, 2026, American national government analyst Taylor R. Knoedl.
Here are excerpts:
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The Decennial Census of Population and Housing: An Overview
Every decade in the year ending with "0," the U.S. Census Bureau conducts the decennial census of population and housing. The decennial census is mandated by Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, in order more
Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 10 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13175) on March 9, 2026, by research librarian Clayton M. Levy.
Here are excerpts:
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Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) is an agency within the Department of Defense (DOD), which is "using a secondary Department of War designation," under Executive Order 14347, dated September 5, 2025. The DPAA's stated mission is to "provide th more
Foreign Agents Registration Act - Foreign Principal Locations & Activities in the U.S. Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 10 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13176) on March 9, 2026, by Congress specialist Jacob R. Straus.
Here are excerpts:
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Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA): Foreign Principal Locations and Activities in the United States
The Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA; 22 U.S.C. Sec.Sec.611-621) requires foreign agents (i.e., individuals and groups) doing political, advocacy, or representational work in the more
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Authorities & Rulemaking Process Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 10 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13178) on March 9, 2026, by transportation policy analyst Naseeb A. Souweidane.
Here are excerpts:
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NHTSA's Authorities and Rulemaking Process
NHTSA Background and Authorities
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), part of the Department of Transportation (DOT), is primarily responsible for motor vehicle and highway safety. Congress established high more
U.S. Army's Indirect Fire Protection Capability System Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 10 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12421) on March 9, 2026, by military ground forces specialist Andrew Feickert and Army fellow Ebrima M'Bai.
Here are excerpts:
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The U.S. Army's Indirect Fire Protection Capability (IFPC) System
Background
Protecting high-value military sites against enemy cruise missile (CM), uncrewed aerial system (UAS), and rocket, artillery, and mortar (RAM) attacks has long been an more
Tipoffs: Public Comments on Proposed Federal Rules
Adult Vaccine Access Coalition Calls for Transparency and Evidence-Based Practices From Federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The Adult Vaccine Access Coalition has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urging the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to prioritize transparency and evidence-based practices in its upcoming meetings, particularly one scheduled for March 18-19.
AVAC, a coalition of eighty organizational leaders in health and public health, is dedicated to overcoming barriers to adult immunization and emphasizing the importa more
Advocate Health Urges CMS to Rethink Proposed Changes to ACA Regulations
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Advocate Health, a nonprofit integrated health system, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the agency's Proposed 2027 Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters. The organization emphasizes the necessity for careful consideration of certain proposals that may impact patient access and care quality.
In the letter, Advocate Health outlines its support for various provisions aimed at enhancing program integrity and a more
American College of Chest Physicians Calls for Stronger Vaccine Policies
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizing the need for federal health leaders to reaffirm commitment to scientifically rigorous vaccine processes. The organization points out the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to protect vulnerable populations.
In their letter, CHEST highlights the role of vaccines in preventing severe illnesses and hospitalizations, more
American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists Urges Approval of Maternal Mortality Data System Extension
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advocating for the extension of the Maternal Mortality Review Information Application (MMRIA). The request emphasizes the need for continued data collection related to maternal health outcomes, highlighting the program's role in reducing pregnancy-related deaths.
The letter, directed to the Office of Management and Budg more
American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists Urges HHS to Revise Proposed Changes to Affordable Care Act Regulations
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services voicing concerns regarding proposed changes to the Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027. The organization contends that many of the proposals could limit access to health insurance coverage, thereby undermining the objectives of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
ACOG's letter outlines several key areas of concern more
American Dental Hygienists' Association Urges CMS to Maintain Adult Dental Coverage in ACA Marketplace
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The American Dental Hygienists' Association is calling on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to preserve adult dental coverage as an Essential Health Benefit under the Affordable Care Act. In a public comment letter, the ADHA expressed strong concerns regarding the proposed rule changes that would prohibit issuers from including routine non-pediatric dental services as part of the EHBs.
ADHA, which represents over 200,000 registered dental hygienists nationwide more
American Diabetes Association Voices Concerns Over Proposed Changes to Healthcare Coverage
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing serious concerns regarding proposed changes in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, specifically the Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027 and the Basic Health Program. The organization is particularly focused on changes that may adversely affect individuals living with diabetes and pre-diabetes.
In its lett more
Association of American Medical Colleges Voices Concerns Over Proposed Changes to Affordable Care Act Regulations
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing concerns over proposed changes to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The letter addresses alterations in the regulations that may impact the availability and affordability of health insurance coverage for millions of Americans.
The AAMC's letter focuses on various aspects of the proposed rule related to th more
Columbia University Nutrition Student Urges Science Based Changes To Dietary Guidelines
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Vama Naik, a graduate student and nutrition advocate at Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding the development of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Naik emphasized the need for the USDA to take into account all 56 recommendations made by the Dietary Guidelines Committee without influence from industry representatives. She argued that aligning the guidelines with the more
Cornell University Professor Urges Risk Based Approach to Salmonella Standards in Poultry
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Martin Wiedmann, gellert family professor at Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Ithaca, New York, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service urging it to adopt a more risk-based approach to regulating Salmonella in poultry products.
The commentary points out that the current performance standards treat all Salmonella equally, regardless of their levels of contamination or their asso more
Delaware Commission Supports CDC Maternal Mortality Review Data Program
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The Delaware Maternal and Child Death Review Commission has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizing the necessity of the Maternal Mortality Review Information Application for enhancing maternal health data collection and analysis. The commission has relied on this vital data infrastructure since its inception, underscoring its role in reviewing maternal deaths within the state.
Since its establishment in 2008, the MCDR more
Delta Air Lines Urges FAA to Revise Airbus A320 Airworthiness Directive Proposal
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Delta Air Lines Inc. submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration urging revisions to a proposed airworthiness directive involving Airbus A320 family aircraft, arguing that changes would simplify compliance requirements and better align federal rules with European aviation standards.
The letter, which detailed several comments on the NPRM, includes a request to revise Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018-23-02 by more
George Washington University Urges Stronger Salmonella Controls in Poultry
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The George Washington University Institute for Food Safety and Nutrition Security has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service urging for enhanced strategies to address Salmonella contamination in poultry products.
Highlighting the considerable public health burden attributed to contaminated poultry, IFSAN's letter points out that Salmonella infections result in nearly $17 billion in medical costs and lost pr more
McCurtain Memorial Hospital Warns 340B Rebate Pilot Could Strain Finances and Patient Access
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- McCurtain Memorial Hospital, Idabel, Oklahoma, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration raising concerns that 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program could increase administrative burdens, create cash-flow risks and threaten access to medications for rural patients.
The hospital indicated that transitioning to a rebate model could impose an estimated $50,000 in additional administrative cos more
Northeastern University Student Opposes Energy Department Proposal to Remove Accessibility Rules
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Isabelle Hou, a disability advocacy student and BFA in Design candidate at Northeastern University, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy opposing proposed regulatory changes that would remove provisions that ensure accessibility for people with disabilities in federally funded facilities.
According to the letter, the proposals aim to eliminate critical compliance requirements for new construction and existing facilities under Docket Numbers more
Opposition to Proposed Rule Limiting Adult Dental Services as Essential Benefit
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The Nevada State Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, expressing strong opposition to a proposed rule that would reinstate a previous prohibition on states including adult dental services as an Essential Health Benefit in Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans starting in 2027. This letter highlights the critical role that oral health plays in overall health, noting that re more
Orion Industries Raises Concerns Over Proposed Workforce Pell Regulations
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Orion Industries has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education regarding the proposed regulations for Workforce Pell. This initiative is aimed at expanding access to short-term workforce training which prepare individuals for careers in various sectors, including advanced manufacturing and clerical customer service.
Orion's workforce training programs, which assist around 350 individuals each year, aim to facilitate the transition into stable more
Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease Raises Concerns Over Vaccine Recommendations
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease, San Francisco, California, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calling for transparency and adherence to established evidence evaluation methods as the committee prepares to address vaccine policy issues including Covid-19, long Covid and mRNA vaccines.
In its letter, the Partnership highlighted that ACIP's decisions in 2025 had result more
Popular Democracy in Action Urges HUD to Withdraw Housing Eligibility Verification Proposal
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Popular Democracy in Action submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development opposing a proposed rule that would harm mixed-status families living in federally assisted housing while failing to address broader causes of the housing affordability crisis.
The organization contends that the proposed rule primarily targets mixed-status families and does little to address the underlying issues causing the nation's housing crisis. They more
Priority Health Raises Concerns Over Proposed Changes to Healthcare Regulations
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Priority Health, a division of Corewell Health, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing critical issues related to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The health system, which operates in Michigan, emphasized the necessity for regulatory adjustments that would promote better healthcare access and consumer protection within the insurance marketplace.
In the letter, Priority Health voiced strong sup more
Public Health Association Urges CDC to Maintain Evidence-Based Vaccine Recommendations
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The American Public Health Association (APHA) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in advance of the upcoming Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting scheduled for March 18. In the letter, APHA emphasizes the necessity of transparent and evidence-based vaccine guidance to support public health efforts.
APHA's letter highlights the integral role that reliable federal guidance plays in the work of more
Request for Extension of Comment Period on Environmental Review for Oil Lease Sales
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation and the Wishtoyo Chumash Foundation have urged the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to extend the public comment period regarding the notice of intent to prepare a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for proposed oil and gas lease sales in the Northern, Central, and Southern California Program Areas.
The request was made in a public comment letter dated March 6, 2026, highlighting concerns about the current thirty-day comme more
Rhode Island Dental Leader Urges CMS to Protect Adult Dental Access in ACA Plans
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Andrew Gazerro III, D.M.D., a practicing Rhode Island dentist, immediate past president of the Rhode Island Dental Association, and former council member of the American Dental Association Council on Dental Benefit Programs, has submitted a public comment letter urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to maintain its prohibition on removing adult dental services from being classified as an essential health benefit. The association warns that such a change coul more
Santa Barbara Doctor Backs CMS Move to Exclude Adult Dental from ACA Essential Benefits
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- A public comment letter submitted by Dr. Terrell F. Pannkuk of Santa Barbara, California, expresses strong support for a proposed rule by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to prohibit the inclusion of routine non-pediatric dental services as Essential Health Benefits in Affordable Care Act-compliant health plans for the 2027 plan year and beyond. The letter outlines key concerns regarding the current structure and reimbursement policies surrounding adult dental more
Strong Opposition Raised Against California Offshore Oil and Gas Leasing
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- A public comment letter submitted by Isaac Jensen, a California resident, has expressed strong opposition to the proposed oil and gas leasing of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) off the California coast. Submitted to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, the letter raises concerns over the environmental impact of the leasing and urges a comprehensive review process.
In the letter, Jensen calls for the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to undertake a fully inclus more
Support for Maternal Mortality Review Application Extended
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, advocating for the continuation of the data collection authority for the Maternal Mortality Review Information Application (MMRIA). This standardized system is pivotal for Maternal Mortality Review Committees (MMRCs) to analyze data, document committee decisions, and examine the factors surrounding pregnancy-related deaths.
The o more
Support for Maternal Mortality Review Information Application Urged by Michigan Council for Maternal and Child Health
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The Michigan Council for Maternal and Child Health has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urging continued support for the Maternal Mortality Review Information Application. MCMCH emphasized that theMMIRA is a foundational tool for advancing maternal mortality prevention efforts in Michigan and beyond.
As a non-partisan advocacy organization, MCMCH comprises hospital systems, statewide organizations, local public health ad more
Toxicology Support Services Raises Concerns Over COVID-19 Vaccines and their Impact on Genetics
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Toxicology Support Services LLC has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlighting concerns regarding the genetic and reproductive safety of COVID-19 mRNA and DNA vaccines. The organization emphasizes the need for investigation into potential genotoxicity, reproductive toxicity and carcinogenic effects associated with these vaccine platforms.
In the letter, the organization poses critical questions about whether thes more
Tully Rinckey Raises Concerns Over OPM's Proposed Rule on Reduction in Force Appeals
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Tully Rinckey PLLC, Albany, New York, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management expressing concerns regarding the agency's proposed rule which undermines the principles of merit and fairness, prioritizing efficiency at the expense of due process rights for federal employees.
The proposed rule, according to Tully Rinckey, fails to strike an appropriate balance among merit, fairness, and efficiency as established by the Civil Service Refo more
U.S. Breastfeeding Committee Advocates for Enhanced Data on Lactation in Maternal Mortality Reviews
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- The U.S. Breastfeeding Committee (USBC) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expressing strong support for the continued implementation and refinement of the Maternal Mortality Review Information Application (MMRIA). The organization emphasizes the importance of a standardized national data system that plays a critical role in analyzing both pregnancy-associated and pregnancy-related deaths.
The USBC, a national c more
Tipoffs: Iran
Audio & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Is a Guest on CBS 2's "The Point"
ALBANY, New York, March 15 -- Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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Audio & Rush Transcript: Governor Hochul Is a Guest on CBS 2's "The Point"
*
Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on CBS 2's "The Point" with Marcia Kramer.
AUDIO: The Governor's interview is available in audio form here.
A rush transcript of the Governor's interview is available below:
Marcia Kramer, CBS 2: Governor Kathy Hochul wants to be the "Affordability Governor," a more
China Is Affected by the Iran Conflict in Multiple Ways
WASHINGTON, March 15 [Category: Energy] -- The Institute for Energy Research posted the following commentary:
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China Is Affected by the Iran Conflict in Multiple Ways
*
Key Takeaways
1
The conflict in Iran is affecting most parts of the world, but few as much as China.
2
While the United States reduced its dependence on Middle Eastern oil by increasing domestic production, China has increased its imports from the region, particularly from Iran.
3
China has been purchasing 90 more
LEADER JEFFRIES ON MS NOW: "REPUBLICANS HAVE MADE LIFE MORE EXPENSIVE FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE"
WASHINGTON, March 15 (Rep.) -- House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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LEADER JEFFRIES ON MS NOW: "REPUBLICANS HAVE MADE LIFE MORE EXPENSIVE FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE"
*
Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on MS NOW's Velshi, where he emphasized that the Trump administration should be using taxpayer dollars to make life more affordable in America rather than breaking their promises to the American people by entering an u more
LEADER JEFFRIES ON MS NOW: "REPUBLICANS HAVE MADE LIFE MORE EXPENSIVE FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE"
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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LEADER JEFFRIES ON MS NOW: "REPUBLICANS HAVE MADE LIFE MORE EXPENSIVE FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE"
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Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on MS NOW's Velshi, where he emphasized that the Trump administration should be using taxpayer dollars to make life more affordable in America rather than breaking their promises to the American people by entering an unpopular war of choice in more
Oil and Gasoline Prices Volatile Amid the Conflict with Iran
WASHINGTON, March 15 [Category: Energy] -- The Institute for Energy Research posted the following commentary:
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Oil and Gasoline Prices Volatile Amid the Conflict with Iran
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Key Takeaways
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Oil prices climbed above $100 a barrel on March 9 and reached levels not seen in four years as the conflict in Iran forced exporting nations in the Persian Gulf to cut production.
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The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to Iranian threats has led storage facilities to reach capaci more
Saudi Arabia Moves to Fill Its East-West Pipeline to Capacity, Adding Oil Supply to Markets
WASHINGTON, March 15 [Category: Energy] -- The Institute for Energy Research posted the following commentary:
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Saudi Arabia Moves to Fill Its East-West Pipeline to Capacity, Adding Oil Supply to Markets
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Key Takeaways
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The impact of the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz is being offset by two east-west pipelines.
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Saudi Aramco is ramping up its pipeline system to the Red Sea from 2.8 million barrels per day to about seven million barrels per day.
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The U.A.E. has more
U.S. Will Release 172 Million Barrels of Oil From the Strategic Petroleum Reserve
WASHINGTON, March 15 [Category: Energy] -- The Institute for Energy Research posted the following commentary:
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U.S. Will Release 172 Million Barrels of Oil From the Strategic Petroleum Reserve
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Key Takeaways
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Member states of the IEA have agreed to release 400 million barrels of strategic reserves in the wake of Iran's closure and mining of the Strait of Hormuz.
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The U.S. share will be 172 million barrels over four months, beginning next week in conjunction with other members more
USDA Issues World Agricultural Supply & Demand Estimates Report for March 2026
WASHINGTON, March 15 (TNSLrpt) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued the following World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report (WASDE-669) on March 10, 2026:
Here are excerpts:
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WHEAT: There are no changes this month for the 2025/26 U.S. wheat supply and use categories. The season-average farm price is up $0.05 per bushel to $4.95 on NASS prices reported to date and price expectations for the remainder of the marketing year.
The 2025/26 global outlook this month project more
WATCH: "It Isn't Worth the Costs," Sen. Schiff Slams the Burden Trump's Iran War is Putting on American Families, Servicemembers on NBC's Meet the Press
WASHINGTON, March 15 -- Sen. Adam Schiff, D-California, issued the following news release:
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WATCH: "It Isn't Worth the Costs," Sen. Schiff Slams the Burden Trump's Iran War is Putting on American Families, Servicemembers on NBC's Meet the Press
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Schiff: "Let's think about what is being lost right now, and that is all of these billions, this $11 billion just within the first few days. That's money that could have gone into new hospitals and new schools. It could have gone into health ca more
WFP delivers lifesaving assistance to families caught in conflict in Afghanistan
ROME, Italy, March 15 -- The United Nations World Food Programme posted the following news release:
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WFP delivers lifesaving assistance to families caught in conflict in Afghanistan
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KABUL - The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has begun to rapidly mobilize a large-scale emergency response for communities in Afghanistan impacted by the conflict with Pakistan and is adapting quickly to keep life-saving aid moving despite violence in the region and shipping disruptions.
WFP is more
