Calif. Assemblyman Lackey Issues Public Comment to EPA
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- California Assemblyman Tom Lackey has issued a public comment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The comment was written on April 16, 2024, and posted on April 22, 2024.
The comment was on Docket No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574.
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To: Karl Simon, Director
Transportation Climate Division, Office of Transportation and Air Quality
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20460
RE: Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574 - OPPOSE
more
Calif. Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The California Department of Transportation has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Rachel Carpenter, Chief Safety Officer.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2023-0045.
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To: Shailen P. Bhatt, Administrator
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
U.S. Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590
RE: Doc more
Durham Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Durham Transportation Department, North Carolina, has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Sean C. Egan, Director of Transportation.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2023-0045-0001.
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To: The Honorable Shailen P. Bhatt
Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590-0001
SUBJECT: City more
EPA Releases Public Communication From California Air Resources Board
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released the following public communication dated April 22, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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To: The Honorable Michael S. Regan
Administrator
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; 1101-A
Washington, D.C. 20460
Docket ID No.: EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574
RE: Comments of the California Air Resources Board in Support of its Request for Authorization Pursuant to Clean Air Act Section 209(e)(2)(A) for Cali more
Findlay, Ohio, Mayor Muryn, Collaborators Issue Public Comment to EPA
WASHINGTON, April 25 (TNScapv) - Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn, Ohio, with collaborators has issued a public comment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 22, 2024.
The comment was on Docket No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574.
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To: The Honorable Michael Regan
Administrator U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20460
Re: California Air Resources Board (CARB) Clean Air Act Authorization R more
Ga. Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Georgia Department of Transportation has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Meg B. Pirkle, Chief Engineer.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2023-0045.
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To: Administrator Shailen P. Bhatt
Federal Highway Administration
U.S. Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Ave., SE
Washington, DC 20590
Re: FHWA-2023-0045, Notice o more
Ind. Child Services Dept. Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Indiana Department of Child Services has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Eric Miller, Director.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
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To: CBComments@acf.hhs.gov
RE: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking--Proposed Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) data elements related to American Indian and Alaska Nat more
Mashantucket Pequot Tribe Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, Connecticut, has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Jody A. Cummings, General Counsel.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
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To: Xavier Becerra
Secretary
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
*
Jeff Hild
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
Administration for Children an more
Mass. Division of Marine Fisheries Issues Public Comment to Interior Dept.
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of the Interior. The comment was posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Daniel McKiernan, Director.
The comment was on Docket No. BOEM-2024-0020.
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To: Karen Baker, Chief
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
Office of Renewable Energy Programs
45600 Woodland Road, Mail Stop VAM-OREP
Sterling, VA 20166
Docket No. BOEM-2024-0020: Notice of Intent to Prepa more
Mass. Office of Coastal Zone Management Issues Public Comment to Interior Dept.
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of the Interior. The comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Tyler Soleau, Acting Director.
The comment was on Docket No. BOEM-2024-0020.
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To: Karen Baker, Chief
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
Office of Renewable Energy Programs
45600 Woodland Road, Mail Stop VAM-OREP
Sterling, VA 20166
Re: Docket No more
N.H. Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The New Hampshire Department of Transportation has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by William Cass, Commissioner.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2024-0045.
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To: Docket Management Facility
United States Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590
(via Federal Register, www.regulations.gov)
Re: FH more
National Marine Fisheries Service Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office Issues Public Comment to Interior Dept.
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The National Marine Fisheries Service Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of the Interior. The comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Michael Pentony, Regional Administrator.
The comment was on Docket No. BOEM-2024-0020.
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To: Ms. Karen J. Baker
Chief, Office of Renewable Energy Programs
Bureau of Ocean Energy Management
United States Department of more
Pima County Juvenile Court Center Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Pima County Juvenile Court Center, Tucson, Arizona, has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Jennifer Richardson.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
* * *
Ms. Jennifer Richardson, Assistant Director
Court, Children and Family Services Division
Pima County Juvenile Court Center
2225 E Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
Re: Notice of Prop more
USDA Office of Pest Management Policy Issues Public Comment to EPA
WASHINGTON, April 25 (TNScapv) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Pest Management Policy has issued a public comment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The comment was written on March 28, 2024, and posted on April 24, 2024.
The comment was signed by Kimberly Nesci, Director.
The comment was on Docket No. EPA-HQ-OPP-2023-0143.
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To: Madison Le, Director
Biopesticides and Pollution Prevention Division (7511M)
Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection more
Wabash, Ind., Mayor Long, Collaborators Issue Public Comment to EPA
WASHINGTON, April 25 (TNScapv) - Wabash Mayor Scott Long, Indiana, with collaborators has issued a public comment to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 22, 2024.
The comment was on Docket No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0574.
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To: The Honorable Michael Regan
Administrator U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20460
Re: California Air Resources Board (CARB) Clean Air Act Authorization Requ more
Wash. Children, Youth & Families Dept. Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Washington Department of Children, Youth and Families has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written on April 22, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Vickie Ybarra, Assistant Secretary, Partnership, Prevention, and Services.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
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To: Ms. Aysha E. Schomburg, Associate Commissioner Children's Bureau
Administration for Children and F more
Wash. State Transportation Dept. Issues Public Comment to DOT
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Washington State Department of Transportation has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The 23-page comment was written on April 17, 2024, and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by Roger Millar, Secretary of Transportation.
The comment was on Docket No. FHWA-2023-0045.
Here are excerpts:
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To: The Honorable Shailen Bhatt
Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, D.C. 20590
more
Wis. Children & Families Issues Public Comment to HHS
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families has issued a public comment to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The comment was written and posted on April 23, 2024.
The comment was signed by John Elliott, Administrator, Division of Safety and Permanence.
The comment was on Docket No. ACF-2024-0001-0001.
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To: Ms. Aysha E. Schomburg, Associate Commissioner
Children's Bureau
Administration for Children and Families
United States Department of more
GOVERNMENT - Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service Issues Fact Sheet on Earth Day
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Fact Sheet (No. R46293) on April 18, 2024, by reference librarian Audrey Celeste Crane-Hirsch:
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Earth Day: Fact Sheet
Introduction
Earth Day is an annual event to raise awareness about environmental issues. First held on April 22, 1970, it is celebrated each year on April 22.
This fact sheet assists congressional offices with work related to Earth Day. It contains historical information, links to legislati more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Affordable Connectivity Program
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12636) on April 18, 2024, by Patricia Moloney Figliola, internet and telecommunications policy specialist.
Here are excerpts:
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The End of the Affordable Connectivity Program: What Next for Consumers?
Introduction
The Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58) in 2021, p more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Congressional Review Act
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11096) on April 18, 2024, by government organization and management specialist Maeve P. Carey.
Here are excerpts:
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The Congressional Review Act: Defining a "Rule" and Overturning a Rule an Agency Did Not Submit to Congress The Congressional Review Act (CRA, 5 U.S.C. Sec.Sec.801-808) provides Congress with a mechanism to review federal agency actions that meet the CRA's definition o more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Continuing Authorities Programs of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12635) on April 18, 2024, by natural resources policy specialists Nicole T. Carter and Anna E. Normand.
Here are excerpts:
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https://crsreports.congress.gov
April 18, 2024
Continuing Authorities Programs (CAPs) of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) can study and implement certain types of water resource projects without project-specific cong more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Nuclear Energy in a Climate Change Context
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12636) on April 18, 2024, by environmental policy analyst Jonathan D. Haskett and energy policy specialist Mark Holt.
Here are excerpts:
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Nuclear Energy in a Climate Change Context: Current Appropriations for Nuclear Energy Development
The potential role of nuclear energy in mitigating climate change has been a significant element of recent congressional discussions about energy a more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Automobiles, Air Pollution & Climate Change
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12433) on April 17, 2024, by environmental policy specialist Richard K. Lattanzio.
Here are excerpts:
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Automobiles, Air Pollution, and Climate Change
On August 5, 2021, President Biden signed Executive Order 14037, "Strengthening American Leadership in Clean Cars and Trucks" (86 FR 43583). The order required, among other items, executive agencies to revisit and amend the federal s more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Paperwork Reduction Act & Federal Collections of Information
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12433) on April 17, 2024, by Maeve P. Carey and Natalie R. Ortiz, government organization and management specialists.
Here are excerpts:
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The Paperwork Reduction Act and Federal Collections of Information: A Brief Overview
Congress enacted the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) in 1980 and reauthorized it in 1995 (codified at 44 U.S.C. Sec.Sec.3501-3521) in part to address a concern th more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on European Parliament & U.S. Interests
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11211) on April 15, 2024, by European affairs specialist Kristin Archick.
Here are excerpts:
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The European Parliament and U.S. Interests
A Key EU Institution
The European Parliament (EP) is the only directly elected institution of the 27-country European Union (EU). The EP's current 705 members represent the EU's roughly 445 million citizens. The EP has accumulated more power ove more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Foreign Leaders Addressing Congress
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10211) on April 15, 2024, by Congress specialist Jacob R. Straus.
Here are excerpts:
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Foreign Leaders Addressing Congress
Foreign leaders are periodically invited to address Congress. The first address by a foreign dignitary occurred on December 10, 1824, when Revolutionary War hero the Marquis de Lafayette addressed the House. The most recent address took place on April 11, 2024, more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on U.S. Army's Typhon Strategic Mid-Range Fires System
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12135) on April 16, 2024, by military ground forces specialist Andrew Feickert.
Here are excerpts:
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The U.S. Army's Typhon Strategic Mid-Range Fires (SMRF) System
What Is the Army's Strategic Mid-Range Fires (SMRF) System?
Reported improvements to Russian and Chinese artillery systems present a challenge to the U.S. Army. Improved longer-ranged artillery systems, new employment t more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on Social Security Disability Insurance
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10506) on April 15, 2024, by income security analyst and social policy analyst Emma K. Tatem.
Here are excerpts:
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Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Overview
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is part of the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) program, commonly known as Social Security. OASDI is a federal social insurance program that provides m more
Congressional Research Service Issues In Focus White Paper on U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - FY2024 Appropriations
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12540) on April 15, 2024, by natural resources policy specialists Caitlin Keating-Bitonti and Carol Hardy Vincent.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: FY2024 Appropriations
Introduction
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), an agency within the Department of the Interior (DOI), has a mission to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and the more
Ariz. Attorney General Mayes: Arizona Mexican Mafia Members and Associates Indicted for Fraudulent Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Claims
PHOENIX, Arizona, April 20 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on April 19, 2024:
Attorney General Kris Mayes today announced that the State Grand Jury recently returned a 50-count Indictment against members and associates of the Arizona Mexican Mafia who made fraudulent claims for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.
The indictment alleges that members and associates committed fraud schemes and artifices, participating in a criminal syndicate, money launderin more
Ind. United States Attorney's Office Hosts Roundtable on Sexual Harassment in Housing
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, April 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana issued the following news release on April 19, 2024:
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Office of Inspector General (OIG) hosted a roundtable today, April 19th, 2024, for community organizations to discuss the problem of sexual harassment in h more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: High-Ranking MS-13 Leader Arraigned on Terrorism Indictment
BROOKLYN, New York, April 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York issued the following news release on April 19, 2024:
Earlier today, Fredy Ivan Jandres-Parada, also known as "Lucky de Park View" and "Lacky de Park View," a high-ranking leader of La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13, was arraigned at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, New York by United States Magistrate Judge Steven L. Tiscione. Jandres-Parada and 13 other high-ranking MS-13 leaders more
NATCA CALLS ON FAA TO COLLABORATE ON AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER FATIGUE
WASHINGTON, April 20 (TNSres) -- The National Air Traffic Controllers Association issued the following news release on April 19, 2024:
Although the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) is encouraged that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has turned its attention to the serious issue of air traffic controller fatigue, our Union is disappointed that the FAA did not collaborate with NATCA in advance of its decision and announcement today. Earlier this morning, FAA first sha more
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee Issues Testimony From American Enterprise Institute Non-Resident Senior Fellow Greenwalt
WASHINGTON, April 20 -- The Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support issued the following testimony by William C. Greenwalt, a non-resident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, involving a hearing on March 20, 2024, entitled "An Update on the State of the Department of Defense Acquisition System":
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Chairman Hirono, Ranking Member Sullivan, and other distinguished members of the subcommittee, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to test more
U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida: Tampa Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Defrauding Veterans Health Administration Program
TAMPA, Florida, April 20 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida issued the following news release:
U.S. District Judge James S. Moody has sentenced Rupert G. McLendon, III (51, Tampa) to 90 days in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $37,402, the proceeds of the wire fraud conspiracy. McLendon entered a guilty plea on more
Bilirakis and Craig Work to Prevent Improper Medicaid Payments for Deceased Beneficiaries
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis, R-Florida, issued the following news release:
Earlier today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Angie Craig (D-MN) introduced the Leveraging Integrity and Verification of Eligibility for (LIVE) Beneficiaries Act. According to a recent HHS Office of Inspector General report, an audit of just 14 states found more than $249 million in improper Medicaid capitation payments that were made to Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) on behalf of deceased more
Export-Import Bank of the United States Launches Equity Express Select Export Credit Insurance to Strengthen Support for the Underserved Business Community
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Today, the Export-Import Bank of the United States launched an innovative new product - the Equity Express Select (EQS) export credit insurance policy. This insurance tool was created specifically for the underserved business community, and will assist minority- women-, veteran- or disability-owned small businesses as well as rural businesses.
Launched during EXIM' more
Heads of G7 Export Credit Agencies 2024 Meeting Statement
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Tokyo, Japan - The leaders of official export credit agencies (ECAs) from the G7 nations - Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America - met on April 16th, in Tokyo, hosted by Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI), to discuss recent business trends and challenges.
In the light of the increasing global geopolit more
Justice Dept.: Leader of Multimillion-Dollar Clinic Scam Resentenced for Health Care and Tax Fraud Conspiracy
WASHINGTON, April 19 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on April 17, 2024:
A New York man was resentenced today to nine years in prison and ordered to pay $39 million in restitution for his role in a multimillion-dollar health care kickback and tax avoidance conspiracy, after his previous sentence was vacated.
According to court documents, Aleksandr Pikus, 48, of Brooklyn, orchestrated a scheme to refer Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries to health care provid more
N.C. U.S. Attorney: Former Army Servicemember Sentenced to Prison in Money Laundering Romance Scam
RALEIGH, North Carolina, April 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina issued the following news release:
Sanda G. Frimpong, 33, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison and ordered to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in restitution to victims for laundering the illicit proceeds of an elaborate series of romance scams. Frimpong pled guilty to three counts of money laundering on September 14, 2023.
"Romance scammers exploit our most vulnerable c more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Companies Pay $92,000 to Settle Allegations Related to False Statement in COVID-19 Funding Applications
BUFFALO, New York, April 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York issued the following news release on April 18, 2024:
U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Buffalo Transportation Inc., Ontario Bus Inc., and several other businesses owned by Igor Finkelshtein, have agreed to pay $91,838 to resolve allegations arising under the False Claims Act. The defendants obtained grants and loans under the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan program (EIDL), a more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Pharmacy Owner Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Health Care Fraud
NEW YORK, April 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York issued the following news release on April 18, 2024:
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that NERIK ILYAYEV was sentenced today to four years in prison for his involvement in a multimillion-dollar health care fraud scheme that targeted the Medicare and Medicaid programs and private insurance companies. ILYAYEV owned and operated two different pharm more
ODOC Responds to Humphrey's Comments
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, April 19 -- The Oklahoma Department of Corrections issued the following agency statement on April 17, 2024:
* * *
It is unfortunate that Representative Justin Humphrey continues to perpetuate false narratives that are not remotely based on fact and listens to those with biased opinions who have no data to back their statements.
We stand behind the investigation conducted by ODOC's Office of Inspector General. Inmates were placed in showers temporarily when they refuse more
U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia: New Jersey Company and CEO Pay $316,779 for Defrauding U.S. Postal Service Following Wire Fraud Conviction
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, April 19 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia issued the following news release:
Cornerstone Facility Solutions, LLC (Cornerstone), a maintenance and repair service located in Brick, New Jersey, and its CEO, Paul Galgon III, paid $316,779 to resolve their False Claims Act liability for falsifying invoices and inflating the cost of services provided to the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).
Cornerstone entered into a service agreement to perform more
Alaska U.S. Attorney: Sterling Businessman Indicted for Covid-19 Relief Fund Fraud
ANCHORAGE, Alaska, April 18 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska issued the following news release:
A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging a Sterling businessman with wire fraud involving Covid-19 relief funds.
According to court documents, Kent Tompkins, 55, made false statements about his criminal history on Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications for his business, J & B Construction. In 2018, the defendant was indicted on multiple f more
America First Legal Sues HHS Secretary Becerra & National Archives Following Investigation Revealing the Biden Administration Illegally Deletes Former CDC Employees' Email - Illustrating Two-Tiered System of Justice
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- America First Legal, a civil rights organization, issued the following news release on April 17, 2024:
Today, America First Legal (AFL) sued Secretary Xavier Becerra, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Archivist of the United States Colleen Shogan, and the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) for illegally destroying federal records from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in violation of the Federal Records Act.
On Ma more
Export-Import Bank of the United States Board of Directors Approves Third Deal Under Make More in America Initiative
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
The Board of Directors of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) today approved a $51 million direct loan to small business Packwell, Inc. to support the construction of a packaging and warehousing facility in Houston, Texas. This is the third transaction approved under the Make More in America initiative. The transaction is estimated to support approxim more
Grassley, Ossoff Aim to Pull the Plug on Prison Contraband
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, issued the following news release:
Senate Judiciary Committee members Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen penalties for smuggling contraband in federal prisons. The Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act would upgrade the charge for smuggling or possessing a contraband cellphone in federal prison from a misdemeanor to a felony.
"Prisoners are increasingly usi more
HHS-OIG: Employee Profile - Dan Hoy
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) Hotline serves as a crucial mechanism for the public to report concerns and potential misconduct related to HHS programs and operations, ensuring transparency and accountability within the agency. The Hotline plays a pivotal role in both initiating and guiding OIG's investigative more
House Budget Committee Chairman Arrington Issues Statement on First Ever Government-Wide Fraud Estimate Report
WASHINGTON, April 18 (TNSres) -- Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, chairman of the House Budget Committee, issued the following statement on April 17, 2024:
* * *
Yesterday, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) unveiled a first-ever fraud estimate report across all government programs. According to the report, the federal government faces estimated annual financial losses due to fraud ranging from $233 billion to $521 billion. These losses stem from various fraud risks within federal progra more
House Natural Resources Committee Issues Report on Udall Foundation Reauthorization Act
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The House Natural Resources Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-364) on the Udall Foundation Reauthorization Act (H.R. 2882), which aims to reauthorize the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Trust Fund. The report was advanced by Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Arkansas, on Jan. 30, 2024.
Here are excerpts:
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Purpose of the Legislation
The purpose of H.R. 2882 is to reauthorize the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Trust Fund, and for other purposes.
Background an more
House Publishes Executive Communications on April 5 From Executive Branch
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The House on April 5, 2024, published 22 executive communications from the Executive Branch:
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EC-3654. A letter from the Under Secretary, Personnel and Readiness, Department of Defense, transmitting the Joint Safety Council Chairman's Annual Statement of Compliance and Semi-Annual Report to Congress, December 2023, pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 184(c)(1)(B)(v); Added by Public Law 117-81, div. A, title III, Sec. 372(a); (135 Stat. 1664); to the Committee on Armed Services. more
King Urges Army Secretary to Prioritize Traumatic Brain Injury Monitoring, Research, and Protections
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Sen. Angus S. King Jr., I-Maine, issued the following news release:
In a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), U.S. Senator Angus King questioned Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth about the Army's plans to better protect servicemembers' health from shockwave trauma produced by repeated explosive weapons used both in combat and in training. This conversation comes a week after Senator King cosponsored the bipartisan Warren-Ernst Blast Overpressure S more
N.J. U.S. Attorney: Three Individuals Indicted in Multistate COVID-19 Relief Program Fraud Scheme
CAMDEN, New Jersey, April 18 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey issued the following news release on April 17, 2024:
Three individuals were indicted for their roles in fraudulently obtaining approximately $5 million of federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and for laundering the loan proceeds, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Eric Rivera, 42, of Norcross, Georgia, is charged with one count of b more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Long Island Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Prescription Drug Diversion Scheme
BROOKLYN, New York, April 18 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York issued the following news release on April 17, 2024:
Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, Trevor Lawry was sentenced by United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack to 96 months in prison for orchestrating a yearslong conspiracy to divert Oxycodone and other prescription medications from a Hempstead pharmacy into the illicit market.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for more
Rep. Blunt Rochester Joins Bipartisan and Bicameral Letter to the USPS Opposing Consolidations, Operational Changes Across the Country
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on April 17, 2024:
Today, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) joined a bipartisan group of 22 Members of Congress in sending a letter to United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, in opposition to the United States Postal Service's (USPS) recent nationwide consolidation and review announcements that could diminish mail service reliability for postal networks across the country.
"A common theme of more
Reps. Raskin, Stansbury, and Omar Push for Supreme Court Accountability with New Legislation?
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Maryland, issued the following news release:
Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), and Senator Richard Blumenthal (CT) today introduced the Judicial Ethics Enforcement Act of 2024 creating an Office of the Inspector General within the judicial branch and empowering the inspector general to conduct investigations of alleged violations of the Code of Conduct for Justices of the Supreme Court of the United more
Senate Publishes Executive Communications on April 15 From Executive Branch
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The Senate on April 15, 2024, published seven executive communications from the Executive Branch:
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EC-4012. A communication from the Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legislative Affairs, Department of Justice, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report entitled "Report to Congress on the Activities and Operations of the Public Integrity Section for 2022"; to the Committee on the Judiciary.
EC-4013. A communication from the Director, Administrative Office more
Sens. Boozman, Scott Champion Effort to Roll Back SEC Climate Disclosure Rule
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Sen. John Boozman, R-Arkansas, issued the following news release:
U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) and Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) radical climate disclosure rule which would bury public companies in paperwork, raise costs for consumers and stifle economic opportunity.
"This burdensome rule is another backdoor attempt to enforce more
Sens. Ossoff, Grassley Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Contraband in Federal Prisons
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Georgia, issued the following news release:
Bipartisan bill backed by Council of Prison Locals, who represent 30,000 Federal law enforcement officers
Senator Jon Ossoff is introducing a bipartisan bill to crack down on contraband in Federal prisons that threatens public safety.
Today, Sens. Ossoff and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced The Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati Stopping Prison Contraband Act to crack down on the smuggling of contraband cellphones more
Stefanik, Khanna Introduce the Blast Overpressure Safety Act
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release:
Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik co-led the introduction of the bipartisan Blast Overpressure Safety Act with Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA) to better mitigate and protect service members from blast overpressure and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) they may be exposed to in the line of duty.
"As the Chief advocate for Fort Drum in Congress the safety and security of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers is more
Tax Season 2025: While Donald Trump Left Them Behind, Hispanic Small Businesses Are Growing at Record Rates Under President Biden's Leadership
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- The Democratic National Committee issued the following news release:
Under President Biden's leadership, the U.S. economy is growing at record rates, and Latino-owned small businesses are at the forefront - the president has helped create 15 million new jobs, including 4.5 million for Latino workers, achieving the lowest Latino unemployment rate on record; Hispanic-owned businesses are starting up at the fastest rate in more than a decade; and the Biden-Harris administra more
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) introduced the Internal Revenue Service Math and Taxpayer Health (IRS MATH) Act, legislation that would improve math error notices -- an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) authority used to quickly adjust taxpayers' returns. Representatives Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) and Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) introduced the bill in the House.
Eac more
Acting Ill. U.S. Attorney: Former Veterans Affairs Procurement Supervisor Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Pocketing Kickbacks
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois issued the following news release on April 15, 2024:
A former procurement supervisor at the Jesse Brown Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Chicago has been sentenced to seven years in federal prison for pocketing kickbacks from the president of a medical supply company to steer the company orders that the VA paid for but never received.
THOMAS E. DUNCAN, 40, of Chicago, pleaded gu more
At Hearing, Sen. Hassan Raises Concerns About U.S. Postal Service Plan to Move Manchester Mail Processing to Boston
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-New Hampshire, issued the following news release on April 16, 2024:
Today, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan raised concerns about the U.S. Postal Service (USPS)'s plan to move the Manchester Processing & Distribution Center's operations to Boston at a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing.
"Granite Staters reach out to my office daily about delivery issues that they are experiencing," said Senator Hassan. "This new plan from more
Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Director Herrnstadt Attends Three Seas Initiative Business Forum in Lithuania
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General issued the following news release:
Vilnius, Lithuania - Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) Director Owen Herrnstadt traveled to Vilnius, Lithuania last week to attend the Summit of the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) and the 3SI Business Forum to participate in discussions alongside government leaders, Three Seas Initiative representatives, and private sector companies to highlight EXIM's ong more
Federal Transit Administration Announces NOFO in Competitive Grants for Ferry Programs
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration has issued a notice, published in the Federal Register on April 17, 2024, entitled "FY 2024 Competitive Funding Opportunity: Passenger Ferry Grant Program, Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry Pilot Program, and Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program."
The notice was issued by Veronica Vanterpool, Acting Administrator.
* * *
SUMMARY:
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announces the opportunity t more
Ga. U.S. Attorney: Florida Attorney Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in COVID-19 Fraud Scheme
SAVANNAH, Georgia, April 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia issued the following news release:
A Florida attorney has been sentenced to federal prison and ordered to pay restitution for participating in a scheme to illegally obtain funding from a federal COVID-19 small business relief program.
Shaquandra Woods, 41, of Jacksonville, Fla., was sentenced to 75 months in prison for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for th more
House Ways & Means Committee Issues Report on on review of materials protected under Internal Revenue Code Sec. 6103
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The House Ways and Means Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 118-339) on the review of materials protected under Internal Revenue Code Sec. 6103. The report was advanced by Rep. Jason Smith, R-Missouri, on Dec. 19, 2023.
Here are excerpts:
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I. SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND
A. Purpose and Summary
The Committee on Ways and Means ("Committee") met in closed executive session on December 5, 2023, to consider materials protected by 26 U.S.C. Sec. 6103 ("Section 6103"), compri more
Indian national in ICE custody dies in hospital
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued the following news release:
ST. MARYS, Georgia -- An Indian national in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) passed away at the Southeast Georgia Health System's Camden Campus in St. Mary's on April 15. An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death.
Jaspal Singh, 57, a citizen of India, entered the United States legally on Oct. 25, 1992.
On Ja more
Manchin, Collins Lead Bicameral, Bipartisan Letter To The USPS Opposing Consolidations, Operational Changes Across The Country
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee, and Susan Collins (R-ME), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, led their bipartisan, bicameral colleagues in sending a letter to United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy. The lawmakers expressed their opposition to the United States Postal Service's (USP more
Mass. U.S. Attorney: Owner of Medford Construction Company Pleads Guilty to Tax Crimes and Making False Statements
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts issued the following news release:
A former Quincy man pleaded guilty last week to a tax fraud scheme that resulted in a tax loss of approximately $2,824,577 and making false statements about a fatal workplace accident.
Mauricio Baiense, 57, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, seven counts of failure to collect and pay over taxes, one count of aiding and assi more
N.J. U.S. Attorney: Two New York Men Admit Participating in More Than $25 Million COVID-19 Fraud, Other Offenses, Including Fentanyl Distribution
NEWARK, New Jersey, April 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey issued the following news release on April 16, 2024:
Two New York men today admitted conspiring with others to defraud dozens of states to obtain millions of dollars of COVID-19 unemployment benefits; one of the defendants also admitted to fentanyl conspiracy and distribution and conspiring to defraud the IRS of tax credit benefits, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Natanael Valdez Brito, more
N.J. U.S. Attorney: U.S. Army Financial Counselor Admits Defrauding Gold Star Families
TRENTON, New Jersey, April 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey issued the following news release on April 16, 2024:
A Monmouth County, New Jersey, financial counselor with the United States Army and major in the U.S. Army Reserves today admitted defrauding Gold Star families and related crimes, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Caz Craffy, aka "Carz Craffey," 41, of Colts Neck, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner i more
National Archives & Records Administration Seeks Public Comment on Requests for Records Disposition Authority
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The National Archives and Records Administration has issued a notice, published in the Federal Register on April 17, 2024, entitled "Records Schedules; Availability and Request for Comments."
The notice was issued by Laurence Brewer, Chief Records Officer for the U.S. Government.
COMMENT DEADLINE: June 3, 2024
* * *
SUMMARY:
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) publishes notice of certain Federal agency requests for records disposition authority (r more
Postal Regulatory Commission: Chairman Kubayanda Testifies Before Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The Postal Regulatory Commission issued the following news release on April 16, 2024:
Postal Regulatory Commission Chairman Michael Kubayanda testified before the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs at a hearing titled "Oversight of the United States Postal Service."
Chairman Kubayanda testified that he hopes Postal Service leadership will be more transparent on plan changes moving forward.
Other witnesses in attendance and pro more
Rep. Cleaver Joins Bipartisan Calls Opposing USPS Consolidation, Operational Changes Across the Country
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, D-Missouri, issued the following news release:
This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Joe Manchin (D-WV), along with a bipartisan group of 19 other Members of Congress, to decry the United States Postal Service's (USPS) recent nationwide consolidation and review announcements that could severely diminish mail service reliability for postal networks across the Country.
In a letter to P more
Sen. Barrasso Fights Back Against Supercharged IRS
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming, issued the following news release on April 16, 2024:
Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) pressed Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Daniel Werfel on the IRS' direct filing program, increased spending and bloated funding request.
Senator Barrasso highlighted how the IRS' direct filing portal puts American taxpayers at risk. By replacing the successful private sector options used by millions of taxpayers, this portal gives th more
Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee Issues Testimony From George Washington University Adjunct Professor
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee issued the following testimony by Anne Weismann, an adjunct professor at George Washington University, involving a hearing on March 20, 2024, entitled "Reforming Federal Records Management to Improve Transparency and Accountability":
* * *
Chairman Peters, Ranking Member Paul, and distinguished members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to testify once again about needed reforms to the Federal more
Senators Collins, Manchin Lead Bicameral, Bipartisan Letter to USPS Opposing Consolidations, Operational Changes Across the Country
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Sen. Susan M. Collins, R-Maine, issued the following news release:
Senators Susan Collins and Joe Manchin (D-WV) led a bipartisan group of 22 Members of Congress, including Senator Angus King and Representative Jared Golden, in sending a letter to United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, opposing the United States Postal Service's (USPS) recent nationwide consolidation and review announcements that could severely diminish mail service reliability for postal networks more
State Dept.: Designation of Former Malawi Public Officials for Significant Corruption
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- The U.S. State Department issued the following statement by spokesperson Matthew Miller:
* * *
The Department of State announced today the public designations of former Solicitor General and Principal Secretary of Justice Reyneck Matemba, former Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Agency Director John Suzi-Banda, former Malawi Police Service Attorney Mwabi Kaluba, and former Inspector General of the Malawi Police Service George Kainja, as generally ineligible for more
U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri: St. Charles County Residents Accused of Forced Labor, Labor Trafficking and Theft
ST. LOUIS, Missouri, April 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri issued the following news release on April 16, 2024:
Four St. Charles County, Missouri residents have been indicted on charges including forced labor, labor trafficking and theft of government funds.
Venkatesh Sattaru, 35, of O'Fallon, Nikhil Penmatsa, 27, of Defiance, Sravan Penumetcha and Nitya Sattaru, both of St. Charles County, were indicted Wednesday in U.S. District Court in St. Louis.
more
U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana: Former Regions Bank Manager Indicted for Embezzlement and Bank Fraud Scheme
BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, April 17 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana issued the following news release:
A federal grand jury recently returned a four-count indictment charging Eric Jason Schouest, age 53, of Plaquemine, Louisiana, with embezzlement and bank fraud. Schouest appeared for his arraignment and pled not guilty to the pending charges.
According to court documents, Schouest was employed at Regions Bank from 2010 to 2021 as a branch manager overseei more
Womack Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Letter to the USPS Opposing Consolidations, Operational Changes Across the Country
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Steve Womack, R-Arkansas, issued the following news release:
Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) joined a bipartisan, bicameral group of 22 Members of Congress in sending a letter to United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, decrying the United States Postal Service's (USPS) recent nationwide consolidation and review announcements that could severely diminish mail service reliability for postal networks across the country, including in Arkansas.Â
"A common theme o more
Bennet, Hickenlooper Push Back on USPS Proposal to Consolidate Grand Junction Mail Center
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Sen. Michael F. Bennet, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper wrote to United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to express concerns about proposed changes to the Grand Junction Processing and Distribution Center and their effects on jobs and mail delivery service for Colorado.
"While we appreciate USPS's efforts to improve mail delivery systems through the Delivering for Amer more
Calif. U.S. Attorney: Virginia-Based Defense Contractor Pleads Guilty to Bribery Conspiracy Involving Government Contracts Worth More Than $100 Million
SAN DIEGO, California, April 16 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California issued the following news release:
Cambridge International Systems, Inc., a defense contractor headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that it participated in a bribery scheme with the company's former Executive Vice President Russell Thurston, and former Naval Information Warfare Center employee James Soriano, among others.
According to Camb more
DOD IG: Audit of the Defense Logistics Agency Oversight of Defense Fuel Support Points - Report No. DODIG-2024-075
WASHINGTON, April 16 (TNSres) -- The U.S. Department of Defense's Office of the Inspector General issued the following news:
The report identifies deficiencies in the management and oversight of defense fuel support points (DFSPs). DFSPs are bulk fuel storage facilities that receive, store, and issue fuel to Military Departments and Federal agencies.
"Compliance with oversight requirements for fuel storage facilities helps identify and prevent risks to the DoD's most precious resource--its peo more
Hawley Calls for Granholm Resignation Over Stock Trading Lies & Dark Money Connections
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, issued the following news release:
Today in a hearing of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) blasted Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Jennifer Granholm for lying about her personal stock holdings and for presiding over a culture of corruption where senior DOE employees trade and own stocks related to the agency's work. Hawley also pressed Granholm on her connection to dark money organiza more
Hawley Presses Postmaster General for Answers on Missouri Postal Issues
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Missouri, issued the following news release:
Today in a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) Committee Hearing U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) pushed Postmaster General and United States Postal Service (USPS) CEO Louis DeJoy for a timeline to rebuild the Post Office in Baring, Mo. that was destroyed in 2023. Senator Hawley also asked for an update on the ongoing postal delays in Kansas City and St. Louis, Mo.
In regard to the P more
Justice Dept.: Doctor Sentenced for Unlawful Distribution of Oxycodone
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
A New Jersey doctor was sentenced today to two years in prison and barred from practicing medicine for unlawfully distributing addictive opioids without performing necessary patient assessments.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Felicia E. Gonzalez, 65, of Toms River, prescribed oxycodone to three patients without conducting any physical examinations, developing treatment plans, o more
Justice Dept.: Owner of Former D.C.-Area Tax Preparation Business Sentenced for Tax Scheme
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
An Indiana woman was sentenced today to 21 months in prison for conspiring to file false tax returns, wire fraud and tax evasion.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Awett Tedla, now of Indianapolis, was the owner and operator of Speedy Tax Services LLC in Washington, D.C., and District Heights, Maryland. From 2012 through 2016, Tedla and her co-conspirators prepared and electronica more
PETA Urges Inspector General to Investigate Botched NIH-Funded Animal Experiments at UCLA
LOS ANGELES, California, April 16 -- People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals issued the following news release:
PETA is calling for an investigation by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General now that the federal agency charged with policing animal experimentation facilities has failed to adequately address a string of alarming animal welfare violations--including the deaths of mice in laboratories at the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) more
Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility: Park Service Archeological Scandal Sparks No Reforms
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility issued the following news release on April 15, 2024:
A multi-year investigation has concluded that two National Park Service (NPS) archeologists committed extensive financial and ethical improprieties, but their trafficking in stolen Native American human remains did not constitute violations of law. That result creates a bad precedent which may hinder the legally required repatriation of such materials in the future, acc more
Rep. Jayapal Urging Accountability Following Reports of Mistreatment of Detained Persons at Immigration Detention Facilities
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Washington, issued the following news:
U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, is leading 47 Members of Congress in calling on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to provide answers on the troubling treatment of individuals held in immigration detention facilities. Recent reports have detailed serious problems related to the per more
Senator Marshall Questions United States Postal Service Postmaster General On Kansas City Mail Delays
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, issued the following news release:
Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. questioned United States Postal Service Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and Inspector General Tammy Hull during a Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC) hearing on oversight and concerns with the United States Postal Service and the unreliability of mail services in the Kansas City Area. Previously, Senator Marshall has written letters to Postmaster G more
VIDEO: During Senate Hearing, Rosen Blasts Postmaster General on Proposed Downsizing of Reno Mail Processing Facility
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nevada, issued the following news release:
View Video of Senator Rosen's Questioning HERE
During a hearing of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) demanded that Postmaster General Louis DeJoy finally provide detailed information about the impact of his misguided proposal to downsize and relocate mail processing operations from Reno to Sacramento, which would hurt Nevadans. Senator Rose more
Gillibrand, Senators Announce Bipartisan Bill to Mitigate Blast Overpressure and Protect Service Members
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release:
Blast Overpressure Safety Act Would Require Defense Department To Enact Better Blast Overpressure Screening, Tracking, Prevention, And Treatment
Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, alongside 11 other senators introduced the Blast Overpressure Safety Act - bipartisan legislation that would direct the Department of Defense (DoD) to enact a variety more
Justice Dept.: Man Charged for Over $70M Medicare Fraud Scheme
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
An indictment was unsealed in Tampa last week charging a Mississippi man for his alleged role in an over $70 million fraud scheme involving the payment of kickbacks and bribes to obtain doctors' orders for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME).
Joel Rufus French, 46, of Amory, made his initial appearance on April 11 in Oxford, Mississippi.
According to court documents, French allegedly ma more
Meet MOAA's 2024 Awardees
WASHINGTON, April 15 [Category: National Defense] -- The Military Officers Association of America issued the following news:
(This article by Charlsy Panzino originally appeared in the April 2024 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about the magazine here; learn more about joining MOAA here.)
The eight recipients of MOAA's annual awards are working to improve the lives of servicemembers and veterans, and their families.
Their work r more
N.Y. U.S. Attorney: Bronx Tax Preparer Charged With Filing Tens of Thousands of False Tax Returns Causing Over $100 Million in Fraudulent Tax Loss
NEW YORK, April 15 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York issued the following news release:
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Thomas Fattorusso, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation ("IRS-CI"); James Smith, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation ("FBI"); and Trevor R. Nelson, more
On Tax Day , N.C. U.S. Attorney's Office Heeds Warning About IRS Imposter Scams and Other Financial Schemes Targeting Older Adults
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, April 15 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina issued the following news release:
On Tax Day, the U.S. Attorney's Office heeds a warning against IRS imposter scams and other emerging and existing financial fraud schemes that target unsuspecting Americans, especially older adults. These scams often result in substantial monetary losses, causing financial hardship and emotional distress to individuals impacted by the fraud.
As pa more
On Tax Day, Warren Blasts Intuit for Deceptive TurboTax Ads and Junk Fees, Urges the FTC to Continue Cracking Down
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
Today, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Chair Lina M. Khan of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), blasting Intuit, the maker of TurboTax, for continuing to relentlessly upsell TurboTax users despite numerous FTC and state lawsuits and settlements. Senator Warren applauded the FTC's oversight of Intuit, and urged the Commission to continue to take action to protect taxpayers more
Pa. U.S. Attorney: Former Owner of Philadelphia CDL School Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Bribing CDL Examiner and Witness Tampering
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, April 15 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania issued the following news release:
United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Vladimir Tsymbalenko, 53, the former owner of Vlad's CDL School in Philadelphia, PA, was sentenced to 57 months' imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $5,000 fine by United States District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl for bribing a Commercial Driver's License examiner to p more
Rep. Langworthy Introduces Protecting Whistleblowers from Retribution Act
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Nick Langworthy, R-N.Y., introduced the "Protecting Whistleblowers from Retribution Act" on March 20, 2024. The text of the bill was released on April 13.
H.R. 7750. A bill to amend section 2303 of title 5, United States Code, to require the Inspector General of the Department of Justice to investigate allegations of prohibited against employees of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for whistleblowing, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accou more
Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Mitigate Blast Overpressure and Protect Servicemembers
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Sen. Thom Tillis, R-North Carolina, issued the following news release:
Senator Thom Tillis and his colleagues recently introduced the Blast Overpressure Safety Act, bipartisan legislation that would direct the Department of Defense (DoD) to enact various measures to help mitigate and protect servicemembers from blast overpressure.
"We owe it to our veterans and servicemembers to remove barriers to brain health treatment and ensure preventive measures are taken to protec more
U.S. Attorney for the District of Colorado: Return to Nature Funeral Home Owners Charged for Defrauding Clients, Defrauding Paycheck Protection Program
DENVER, Colorado, April 15 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Colorado issued the following news release:
The United States Attorney's Office for the District of Colorado announces that Jon Hallford, age 44, and Carie Hallford, age 47, were indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly defrauding their funeral home clients, and for defrauding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which is part of The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Both Jon and more
With Senator Warnock, McBath, House Colleagues Press Senior USPS Leaders for Accountability in Mail Delays
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Lucy McBath, D-Georgia, issued the following news release:
Today, Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA-07), joined by U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and a group of House colleagues from Georgia, pressed top leaders at the United States Postal Service (USPS) about the implementation of the agency's "Delivering for America" (DFA) plan following recent reporting from local news outlets detailing ongoing delays and disruptions in mail processing and delivery i more
DOT IG: 'Opportunities Exist To Improve FHWA's Oversight of STIPs Including Those With IIJA-Funded Projects'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. ST2024021) on April 1, 2024, entitled "Opportunities Exist To Improve FHWA's Oversight of STIPs Including Those With IIJA-Funded Projects."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
What We Looked At
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) oversees approximately $350 billion appropriated for FHWA programs and activities by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021. To ensure proper planning a more
DOT IG: 'Quality Control Review on a Single Audit of the Metropolitan Transit Authority, Nashville, Tenn.'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Transportation Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. QC2024022) on April 3, 2024, entitled "Quality Control Review on a Single Audit of the Metropolitan Transit Authority, Nashville, Tennessee."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
What We Looked At
In 2023, we conducted a quality control review (QCR) of Crosslin PLLC's single audit of the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) of Nashville, TN, for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2022 (OIG Report Number more
Energy IG: 'Allegations Regarding Timekeeping and Personnel Practices at Sandia National Laboratories'
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSrep) -- The Energy Inspector General issued the following report (No. DOE-OIG-24-16) on April 1, 2024, entitled "Allegations Regarding Timekeeping and Personnel Practices at Sandia National Laboratories."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
The Office of Inspector General received allegations regarding inappropriate timekeeping and personnel practices at Sandia National Laboratories' (SNL) Badge Office in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The allegations stated that a manager: (1) instru more
EPA IG: 'Half the States Did Not Include Climate Adaptation or Related Resilience Efforts in Their Clean Water State Revolving Fund Intended Use Plans'
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSrep) -- The Environmental Protection Agency Inspector General issued the following xx-page report (No. 24-P-0031) on April 8, 2024, entitled "Half the States Did Not Include Climate Adaptation or Related Resilience Efforts in Their Clean Water State Revolving Fund Intended Use Plans."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
At A Glance
Why We Did This Audit
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General conducted this audit to determine to what extent (1) the more
FCC IG: 'FY 2021 Privacy & Data Protection Inspection'
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSRep) -- The Federal Communications Commission Inspector General issued the following 16-page audit report (No. 21-INSP-10-01) on March 29, 2024, entitled "FY 2021 Privacy & Data Protection Inspection."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
OIG Highlights
What We Reviewed
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) conducted an inspection in accordance with 42 U.S.C. Sec. 2000ee-2, which requires each agency to establish and implement comprehensive privacy and data protection procedure more
FCC IG: 'Performance Audit of Universal Service Fund, Rural Healthcare, Telecommunications Program at Mt. Rogers Community Services for FY 2019 & FY 2020'
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSRep) -- The Federal Communications Commission Inspector General issued the following 11-page audit report (No. 23-AUD-02-02) on Feb. 28, 2024, entitled "Performance Audit of the Universal Service Fund, Rural Healthcare, Telecommunications Program at Mt. Rogers Community Services for FY 2019 and FY 2020."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
OIG Highlights
What We Audited
The Office of Inspector General conducted a performance audit of Mount (Mt.) Rogers Community Services (CS), more
GSA IG: 'Implementation Review of Corrective Action Plan Audit of PBS's Approval Process for Minor Repair and Alteration Projects'
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSrep) -- The General Services Administration Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A240042) on April 12, 2024, entitled "Implementation Review of Corrective Action Plan Audit of PBS's Approval Process for Minor Repair and Alteration Projects Report Number A190100/P/5/R22005 May 9, 2022:"
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Table of Contents
Introduction ... 1
Results ... 3
Appendixes
Appendix A - Corrective Action Plan for Report Number A190100/P/5/R22005 ... A-1
Appendix B - more
HHS IG Audit: 'ACF Has Enhanced Some Cybersecurity Controls Over Unaccompanied Children Portal & Data But Improvements Are Needed'
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSres) -- The Health and Human Services Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A-18-22-03200) on on March 28, 2024, entitled "ACF Has Enhanced Some Cybersecurity Controls Over the Unaccompanied Children Portal and Data But Improvements Are Needed" filed under the Administration for Children and Families.
Here are excerpts:
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Report in Brief
Why OIG Dd This Audit
The UC Program has experienced heightened attention and oversight from the Office of more
HHS IG Audit: 'Administration for Children & Families Data Hosted in Certain Cloud Information Systems May Be at a High Risk of Compromise'
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSres) -- The Health and Human Services Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. A-18-22-08020) on March 28, 2024, entitled "Administration for Children and Families Data Hosted in Certain Cloud Information Systems May Be at a High Risk of Compromise" filed under the Administration for Children and Families.
Here are excerpts:
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Report in Brief
Why OIG Did This Audit
This audit is one in a series of audits that will examine whether HHS and its oper more
Interior IG: 'Bureau of Reclamation's Drought Mitigation Plans & Activities'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following flash report (No. 2023-WR-032) on March 29, 2024, entitled "The Bureau of Reclamation's Drought Mitigation Plans and Activities."
Here are excerpts:
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Definitions
An acre foot - is the volume of water needed to cover 1 acre (43,560 square feet) at a depth of 1 foot, which is 325,851 gallons.
A canal is a channel, usually open, that conveys water by gravity to areas such as farms and municipalities.
Conservation more
Interior IG: 'Department Comply With Requirements in Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act Section 40206'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following report (No. 2023-ISP-013) on March 29, 2024, entitled "The Department Should Comply With Requirements in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Section 40206."
Here are excerpts:
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Memorandum
To: Deb Haaland, Secretary, Department of the Interior
From: Mark Greenblatt, Inspector General
Subject: Final Inspection Report - The U.S. Department of the Interior Should Comply With Requirements in Infrastructure Inves more
Interior IG: 'Department Did Not Ensure Its Wildland Firefighting Bureaus Conducted Routine Vehicle Inspections'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following report (No. 2022-ER-021) on March 21, 2024, entitled "The U.S. Department of the Interior Did Not Ensure Its Wildland Firefighting Bureaus Conducted Routine Vehicle Inspections."
Here are excerpts:
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Memorandum
To: Jeffrey Rupert, Director, Office of Wildland Fire
Bryan Newland, Assistant Secretary - Indian Affairs
Shannon Estenoz, Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks
Steven Feldgus, Deputy Ass more
Interior IG: 'Department Needs To Better Protect Data Stored in Cloud From Risk of Unauthorized Access'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following report (No. 2022-ITA-025) on Feb. 21, 2024, entitled "The Department Needs To Better Protect Data Stored in the Cloud From the Risk of Unauthorized Access."
Here are excerpts:
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Memorandum
To: Darren Ash, Chief Information Officer
From: Kathleen Sedney, Assistant Inspector General for Audits, Inspections, and Evaluations
Subject: Final Evaluation Report - The U.S. Department of the Interior Needs To Better Prot more
Interior IG: 'Indian Affairs Is Unable To Effectively Manage Deferred Maintenance of School Facilities'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following report (No. 2022-CR-036) on March 29, 2024, entitled "Indian Affairs Is Unable To Effectively Manage Deferred Maintenance of School Facilities."
Here are excerpts:
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Memorandum
To: Bryan Newland, Assistant Secretary, Indian Affairs
Darry LaCounte, Director, Bureau of Indian Affairs
Tony Dearman, Director, Bureau of Indian Education
From: Kathleen Sedney, Assistant Inspector General for Audits, Inspections, and more
Interior IG: 'National Park Service Should Clarify Oversight Responsibilities for Childcare Centers Operating in National Parks'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following management advisory (No. 22-0609) on March 27, 2024, entitled "The National Park Service Should Clarify Oversight Responsibilities for Childcare Centers Operating in National Parks."
Here are excerpts:
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In the course of other work, we learned that Yosemite National Park Childcare Center (Yosemite Childcare Center) operates two childcare facilities at Yosemite National Park (Yosemite). We identified what appears t more
Interior IG: 'Offshore Company Falsified Site Clearance Certification'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following summary report (No. 19-0821) on Feb. 7, 2024, entitled "Offshore Company Falsified Site Clearance Certification:"
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The OIG investigated allegations that a company submitted false documentation to the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) regarding the final site clearance of offshore production platforms located in the Gulf of Mexico. Site clearance, as mandated by 30 C.F.R. Sec. 250.1703, requires more
Interior IG: 'U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Grants Awarded to State of Arizona, Game & Fish Department, From July 1, 2019, Through June 30, 2021'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 2022-WR-003) on March 25, 2024, entitled "U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Grants Awarded to the State of Arizona, Game and Fish Department, From July 1, 2019, Through June 30, 2021, Under the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Memorandum
To: Martha Williams, Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
From: Bryan Brazil, Director, Western Region Audit Division
Subje more
Interior IG: 'U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Grants Awarded to State of Louisiana, Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, From July 1, 2019, Through June 30, 2021'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 2023-CR-001) on March 29, 2024, entitled "U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Grants Awarded to the State of Louisiana, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, From July 1, 2019, Through June 30, 2021, Under the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program."
Here are excerpts:
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Memorandum
To: Martha Williams, Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
From: Amy R. Billings, Director, Central Region Audi more
Interior IG: 'U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Grants Awarded to State of Wyoming, Game & Fish Department, From July 1, 2020, Through June 30, 2022'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Interior Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 2023-CGD-037) on March 21, 2024, entitled "U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Grants Awarded to the State of Wyoming, Game and Fish Department, From July 1, 2020, Through June 30, 2022, Under the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Memorandum
To: Martha Williams, Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
From: Jessica Brower, Director, Contract and Grant Division
Subj more
Justice IG Audit: 'Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department's Equitable Sharing Program Activities, Dulles, Virginia'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Justice Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 24-057) on March 28, 2024, regarding the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department's Equitable Sharing Program Activities, Dulles, Virginia.
Here are excerpts:
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Objective
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has completed an audit to assess whether the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department (MWAA PD more
Justice IG: 'Findings of Misconduct by a FBI Assistant Section Chief for Failing to Timely Report an Intimate or Romantic Relationship With a Subordinate'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Justice Inspector General issued the following investigative summary (No. 24-059) on April 9, 2024, entitled "Findings of Misconduct by a Federal Bureau of Investigation Assistant Section Chief for Failing to Timely Report an Intimate or Romantic Relationship with a Subordinate, Engaging in an Inappropriate Hiring or Organizational Decision, and Engaging in Off Duty Unprofessional Conduct."
* * *
The Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) more
Labor IG Issues Memorandum on Review of Pandemic Unemployment Insurance Relief and Its Impact on Six Different U.S. Communities
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The Labor Inspector General issued the following memorandum (No. 19-24-002-03-315) on March 28, 2024, regarding the review of Pandemic Unemployment Insurance Relief and its impact on six different U.S. Communities.
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM FOR: BRENT PARTON, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training
FROM: CAROLYN R. HANTZ, Assistant Inspector General for Audit
SUBJECT: A Review of Pandemic Unemployment Insurance Relief and Its Impact more
Postal Service IG: 'Brookland Station in Washington, D.C. - Delivery Operations'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The U.S. Postal Service Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 24-065-1-R24) on April 11, 2024, entitled "Brookland Station in Washington, D.C.: Delivery Operations."
Here are excerpts:
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Background
The U.S. Postal Service's mission is to provide timely, reliable, secure, and affordable mail and package delivery to more than 160 million residential and business addresses across the country. The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (OIG more
Postal Service IG: 'Efficiency of Operations at the Curseen-Morris Processing & Distribution Center, Washington, D.C.'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The U.S. Postal Service Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 24-063-R24) on April 11, 2024, entitled "Efficiency of Operations at the Curseen-Morris Processing and Distribution Center, Washington, D.C."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Background
The U.S. Postal Service needs effective and productive operations to fulfill its mission of providing prompt, reliable, and affordable mail service to the American public. It has a vast transportation network that more
Postal Service IG: 'Lammond Riggs Station in Washington D.C. - Delivery Operations'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The U.S. Postal Service Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 24-065-2-R24) on April 11, 2024, entitled "Lammond Riggs Station in Washington D.C.: Delivery Operations."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Background
The U.S. Postal Service's mission is to provide timely, reliable, secure, and affordable mail and package delivery to more than 160 million residential and business addresses across the country. The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General ( more
Postal Service IG: 'Ward Place Carrier Annex in Washington, D.C. - Delivery Operations'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The U.S. Postal Service Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 24-065-3-R24) on April 11, 2024, entitled "Ward Place Carrier Annex in Washington, D.C.: Delivery Operations."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Background
The U.S. Postal Service's mission is to provide timely, reliable, secure, and affordable mail and package delivery to more than 160 million residential and business addresses across the country. The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector Gener more
Postal Service IG: 'Washington D.C. District - Delivery Operations'
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- The U.S. Postal Service Inspector General issued the following audit report (No. 24-065) April 11, 2024, entitled "Washington D.C. District: Delivery Operations."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
We performed a self-initiated audit at the Curseen-Morris Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC) and three delivery units serviced by the P&DC during the week of February 5, 2023. The delivery units included the Brookland Station, Lammond Riggs Station, and Ward Place Annex located more
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSrep) -- The Small Business Administration Inspector General issued the following report (No. 24-13) on April 9, 2024, entitled "Hurricanes Fiona and Ian - Initial Disaster Assistance and Recovery Response."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
What OIG Reviewed
This report presents the results of our inspection of the U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) disaster assistance response to Hurricanes Fiona and Ian. In September 2022, both hurricanes made lan more
Social Security IG: 'FY 2023 Periodic Assessment of Administration's Charge Card Programs'
WOODLAWN, Maryland, April 14 (TNSrep) -- The Social Security Administration's Office of the Inspector General issued an 18-page audit report (No. 032314) on April 3, 2024, entitled "Fiscal 2023 Periodic Assessment of the Administration's Charge Card Programs."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
MEMORANDUM
To: Martin O'Malley, Commissioner
From: Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General
Subject: Fiscal Year 2023 Periodic Assessment of the Social Security Administration's Charge Card Programs
The attached fin more
State Department IG Issues Management Letter Related to Audit of International Boundary & Water Commission, U.S. and Mexico, U.S. Section, FY 2023 Financial Statements
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSrep) -- The State Department Inspector General issued the following management letter (No. AUD-FM-24-15) on April 2, 2024, related to the audit of the International Boundary and Water Commission, U.S. and Mexico, U.S. Section, FY 2023 financial statements:
* * *
To the United States Commissioner of the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico, U.S. Section, and the Acting Inspector General:
Kearney & Company, P.C. (referred to as "we" her more
VA IG: Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines
WASHINGTON, April 14 (TNSrep) -- The Veterans Affairs Inspector General issued the following oversight report (No. 23-00096-122) on April 2, 2024, entitled "Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection of the VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines."
Here are excerpts:
* * *
Report Overview
This Office of Inspector General (OIG) Comprehensive Healthcare Inspection Program (CHIP) report provides a focused evaluation of the quality of care delivered in the inpatient and outpatient settings of more
Justice Department's Procurement Collusion Strike Force Announces Four New National Law Enforcement Partners
WASHINGTON, April 12 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
The Justice Department announced today that the Procurement Collusion Strike Force (PCSF) is adding four new national partners for a total of 38 agencies and offices committed to deterring, detecting, investigating and prosecuting antitrust crimes and related schemes that target government procurement, grants and program funding at all levels of government.
The new partners include three U.S. Attorneys' O more
Justice Dept.: 2 Doctors Sentenced for $4M Fraudulent Urine Drug Testing Scheme
WASHINGTON, April 12 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
The owner and the medical director of a Kentucky pain clinic were sentenced yesterday for their respective roles in a scheme that defrauded Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance companies of over $4 million for medically unnecessary urine drug testing.
Dr. William Lawrence Siefert, 70, of Dayton, Ohio, the clinic's medical director, was sentenced to one year and six months in prison and ordered to more
Journalism Tipoffs from TNS
Central Michigan University: Your Mini Sabbatical - Quit Your Life - Temporarily
MOUNT PLEASANT, Michigan, April 26 (TNSres) -- Central Michigan University issued the following news:
"I graduated in 1992 with a journalism major and political science minor, although several of us liked to say that we really majored in CM LIFE," said author Colleen Newvine of her time at Central Michigan University.
In 2017 she was inducted into the CMU Media Hall of Fame, an institution that recognizes those who have made a difference in the world, who have remained true to the ethics and e more
Columbus State University: Communication Students to Learn From Industry Veterans Through New Professional-in-Residence Program
COLUMBUS, Georgia, April 26 -- Columbus State University issued the following news:
A name and face familiar to the Chattahoochee Valley will soon take on a new role in Columbus State University's Department of Communication.
Through the department's new Professional-in-Residence program, students will learn from and shadow seasoned journalists, broadcasters and other communication professionals as part of their classroom studies and through internships and practicum experiences. In some case more
GBH Productions Honored With Eight Peabody Award Nominations
BOSTON, Massachusetts, April 26 -- GBH, a multiplatform creator for public media, issued the following news release:
Boston public media producer GBH has been recognized with eight George Foster Peabody Award nominations for outstanding productions released in 2023.
Produced at GBH, FRONTLINE, U.S. television's longest running investigative documentary series, was recognized by the Peabody Awards Board of Jurors with six nominations. The 2024 Academy-Award winner for Best Documentary 20 Days i more
Haynes Boone Wins Dismissal for ProPublica and Houston Chronicle in First Amendment Case
DALLAS, Texas, April 26 -- Haynes and Boone, a law firm, issued the following news release:
The Media Law Practice Group at Haynes and Boone, LLP has won dismissal of a defamation case involving a joint article written by ProPublica and the Houston Chronicle. The case, decided by the Court of Appeals for the First District of Texas, involved a 2018 investigative article concerning prominent heart surgeon Dr. O. Howard "Bud" Frazier.
Dr. Frazier alleged the publications' reporting on his resear more
International Press Institute: Government Expelled French Journalist and Suspended Accreditation for Foreign Reporters
VIENNA, Austria, April 26 -- The International Press Institute issued the following news on April 25, 2024:
Togo authorities must allow the media to freely and safely cover the April 29 parliamentary and regional elections, the International Press Institute (IPI) said today.
There is growing pressure on journalists in Togo ahead of the vote. This month, authorities arrested and expelled French journalist Thomas Dietrich. Additionally, the country's media regulatory body suspended accreditation more
International Press Institute: Spotlight - Press Freedom in Senegal in 2024
VIENNA, Austria, April 26 (TNSres) -- The International Press Institute issued the following news:
This International Press Institute (IPI) briefing highlights current press freedom challenges in Senegal. Additionally, it sets forth high-level recommendations on promoting and protecting press freedom and journalist safety.
In recent decades, Senegal has enjoyed a relatively high level of press freedom, serving as a model for other countries in Africa, and West Africa in particular. However, in more
Journalism, Law, the Military and Mental Health Converge at Symposium Co-Hosted by Reynolds Journalism Institute
COLUMBIA, Missouri, April 26 -- The University of Missouri's School of Journalism issued the following news release on April 25, 2024:
On Friday, April 19, experts in journalism, whistleblower laws and war crimes gathered at the Missouri School of Journalism's Reynolds Journalism Institute (RJI) to discuss what happens when media and the military come together.
The Veterans Clinic Symposium was co-hosted by RJI and the University of Missouri School of Law's Veterans Clinic. Kicked off by a key more
SHIPPENSBURG, Pennsylvania, April 26 (TNSres) -- Shippensburg University issued the following news:
On April 23, 2024, the Minds@Work Conference was showcased at Shippensburg University. This annual event provides a platform for undergraduate and graduate students to present their academic research and creative knowledge across various fields and disciplines. Both students and faculty worked together to provide their unique perspectives and research on a given topic. The event included departme more
Society of Professional Journalists: Region 3 Mark of Excellence Awards 2023 Winners Announced
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, April 26 -- The Society of Professional Journalists issued the following news:
The Society of Professional Journalists recognizes the best collegiate journalism in Region 3 with 2023 Mark of Excellence Awards winners.
SPJ's Region 3 comprises Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. First-place winners will compete at the national level among other MOE winners from the 12 SPJ regions.
National winners will be notified in the late s more
SPJ Condemns Arrest of Fox 7 News Photojournalists, Calls for Law Enforcement to Allow Journalists to Report Without Interference
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, April 26 -- The Society of Professional Journalists issued the following news:
As more protests take place at college campuses across the country, the Society of Professional Journalists reminds law enforcement that journalists should be allowed to cover the story without interference and condemns the arrest of a Fox 7 News photojournalist at Wednesday's University of Texas protest. SPJ demands that the Texas Department of Public Safety drop all charges against the photog more
The New York Times Reporter Hannah Dreier Honored With John Bartlow Martin Award From Medill
EVANSTON, Illinois, April 26 -- Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism issued the following news:
Hannah Dreier, investigative reporter at The New York Times, is the recipient of the 2024 John Bartlow Martin Award for Public Interest Magazine Journalism from Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications. She is honored for "The Kids on the Night Shift," an investigation published in The New York Times in September 2023.
Dreier's more
Burmese journalist wins Soros Fellowship for New Americans
ITHACA, New York, April 25 -- Cornell University issued the following news:
Journalist Kyaw Hsan Hlaing, who exposed the realities of violence perpetrated by the military in his native Myanmar, has been awarded a Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans to support his work toward a Ph.D. in political science at Cornell.
Kyaw Hsan is among the 30 immigrants or children of immigrants selected from more than 2,300 applicants for their drive, creativity, intellectual spirit and commitment more
CNN Promotes Gloria Pazmino to Network Correspondent
ATLANTA, Georgia, April 25 -- CNN issued the following news on April 24, 2024:
Gloria Pazmino has been promoted to CNN correspondent based in New York City, the news organization announced today.
Expanding from her role as a correspondent for CNN Newsource and CNN's more than 1,000 affiliate partners, she has contributed to the network's reporting on New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the special election in New York's 3rdcongressional district, the historic election of Governor Kathy Hochul, the more
Evjue Chair, Hilldale professors named
MADISON, Wisconsin, April 25 -- The University of Wisconsin Madison campus issued the following news:
Six members of the University of Wisconsin-Madison faculty have received the Evjue Distinguished Chair and Hilldale Professorships.
The Evjue Distinguished Chair
Michael Wagner Photo: Jeff Miller
Michael Wagner, professor of journalism and mass communication, is the William T. Evjue Distinguished Chair for the Wisconsin Idea.
The chair was created with an endowment from the William T. Evjue more
FSU to Hold Six Commencement Ceremonies May 3-4
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, April 25 -- Florida State University issued the following news:
By Patty Cox
Four distinguished graduates of Florida State University and a U.S. congressman will be the featured speakers during FSU's spring commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 3, and Saturday, May 4, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.
President Richard McCullough will preside over five commencement ceremonies in addition to a doctoral hooding ceremony for Ph.D. graduates from all disciplines. About more
Henry Chu Named Deputy Curator of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard
CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, April 25 -- The Nieman Foundation issued the following news:
Henry Chu, an accomplished reporter and editor whose work has taken him around the globe, has been selected as the deputy curator of the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University.
In his new role, Chu will oversee a range of programming and publishing initiatives that serve the Nieman Fellows and the broader media world. His responsibilities will include participating in the selection of fellows more
House Judiciary Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Investigative Journalist Herridge
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government issued the following testimony by investigative journalist Catherine V. Herridge involving a hearing on April 11, 2024, entitled "Fighting for a Free Press: Protecting Journalists and their Sources":
* * *
Good morning, Chairman Jordan, Ranking Member Nadler, Chairman Roy, and Ranking Member Scanlon and Members of the Subcommittee. I am here today with a deep sense of gratitude and humility. I a more
House Judiciary Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Knight First Amendment Institute Policy Director Johnson
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government issued the following testimony by Nadine Farid Johnson, policy director of the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University, at involving a hearing on April 11, 2024, entitled "Fighting for a Free Press: Protecting Journalists and their Sources":
* * *
Thank you, Chairman Roy, Ranking Member Scanlon, and members of the Subcommittee and Committee for convening today's hearing. My name more
House Judiciary Subcommittee Issues Testimony From Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television & Radio Artists Chief Broadcast Officer
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government issued the following testimony by Mary Cavallaro, chief broadcast officer for the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, at involving a hearing on April 11, 2024, entitled "Fighting for a Free Press: Protecting Journalists and their Sources":
* * *
Good morning. Thank you, Committee Chairman Jordan, Subcommittee Chairman Roy, Committee Ranking Member Nadler, and more
International Press Institute: Bulgaria Minister Urged to Drop Defamation Lawsuit
VIENNA, Austria, April 25 -- The International Press Institute issued the following news:
The Media Freedom Rapid Response consortium partners criticize the criminal defamation lawsuit filed by Interior Minister Kalin Stoyanov against investigative journalists Atanas Chobanov and Dimitar Stoyanov of the Bureau for Investigative Reporting and Data (BIRD). The undersigned organisations believe that the lawsuit is designed to silence legitimate investigative reporting and should be immediately wit more
Jacobs Named ATU-Ozark Campus Chancellor
RUSSELLVILLE, Arkansas, April 25 -- Arkansas Tech University issued the following news:
Dr. Sheila R. Jacobs is the next chancellor at Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus.
Her appointment was announced on Wednesday, April 24, by Dr. Russell Jones, ATU interim president.
"Dr. Jacobs has an investment in and knowledge of Arkansas Tech University that is rare and special," said Jones. "Dating back to her involvement in the leadership programs implemented by Jimmy Ferguson during her time as an more
Pulitzer Center: Ocean Reporting Network Fellows Convene in Spain
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- Pulitzer Center, an organization that say it combines journalism and engagement, issued the following news:
By Jessica Aldred, Editorial Team
The Pulitzer Center's Ocean Reporting Network (ORN) Fellows came together in Barcelona, Spain, for a workshop on April 8 and 9, 2024, and a United Nations ocean science conference on April 10-13.
Led by Ocean Editor Jessica Aldred, the Fellows were joined by members of the Pulitzer Center's Editorial team, including Jelter Meers more
Swarthmore College: Fashion Designer, Documentarian, and Science Journalist Named 2024 Honorary Degree Recipients
SWARTHMORE, Pennsylvania, April 25 -- Swarthmore College issued the following news:
During Swarthmore College's 152nd Commencement ceremony on May 26, Co-Acting Presidents Tomoko Sakomura and Robert Goldberg will award honorary degrees to three distinguished individuals: a Doctor of Arts to Joseph Altuzarra '05, founder and creative director of the Altuzarra and Altu fashion brands; a Doctor of Arts to Louis Massiah, documentary filmmaker and founder and executive director of Scribe Video Cente more
Tasneem Raja Receives 2024 IWMF Gwen Ifill Award
WASHINGTON, April 25 -- The International Women's Media Foundation issued the following news release on April 24, 2024:
The International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF) today announced The Oaklandside Editor-in-Chief Tasneem Raja as the recipient of its 2024 Gwen Ifill Award, recognizing her career-long commitment to advancing equitable news spaces and cultivating diverse journalistic talent. With close to 20 years of experience as a data journalist and news editor, as well as co-founding mult more
Axios Journalists Mike Allen and Alex Thompson to Keynote NMMA's 2024 Advocacy Event
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 24 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association issued the following news release:
The American Boating Congress (ABC) 2024 is proud to announce that Mike Allen and Alex Thompson, both esteemed journalists from Axios, will be the keynote speakers at this year's highly anticipated advocacy event. Scheduled to take place from Wednesday, May 8 to Friday, May 10 at the Intercontinental--The Wharf in the event promises to be an insightful and influen more
Indian Authorities Stop Australian Journalist from Covering Elections
NEW YORK, April 24 [Category: International] -- Human Rights Watch issued the following news:
Australian journalist Avani Dias left India on April 19 after the government did not extend her journalist visa until moments before it was due to expire - the latest example of foreign writers, journalists, academics, and activists being denied access to India for seemingly political reasons.
Dias, who works for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and had been based in India as their South Asia c more
UPenn School of Arts & Sciences: Investigating Homelessness
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, April 24 -- The University of Pennsylvania School of Arts and Sciences issued the following news:
In a Kelly Writers House event, writer Jennifer Egan and social scientist Dennis Culhane discuss journalism and the homelessness crisis.
It's almost unimaginable now, Jennifer Egan says, but during the 1970s, throughout her entire adolescence, she never saw a single person sleeping outside. Egan grew up in San Francisco, a city that now has almost 8,000 unhoused people. more