Public Policy & NGOs
Here's a look at documents from public policy and non-governmental organizations
Featured Stories
Final Rescission of Public Lands Rule Reverses Modern Land Management, Threatens Wildlife Habitat
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Environment] -- The Defenders of Wildlife posted the following news release:
* * *
Final Rescission of Public Lands Rule Reverses Modern Land Management, Threatens Wildlife Habitat
*
The Bureau of Land Management today announced a decision to roll back the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule, commonly referred to as the Public Lands Rule. The policy modernized how BLM manages our national public lands and represented the critical incorporation of ecological resilience into management alongside traditional resource extraction. The rule required science-based
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Environment] -- The Defenders of Wildlife posted the following news release:
* * *
Final Rescission of Public Lands Rule Reverses Modern Land Management, Threatens Wildlife Habitat
*
The Bureau of Land Management today announced a decision to roll back the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule, commonly referred to as the Public Lands Rule. The policy modernized how BLM manages our national public lands and represented the critical incorporation of ecological resilience into management alongside traditional resource extraction. The rule required science-baseddecision-making, conservation considerations within multiple land uses and a focus on sustaining public lands for the long-term benefit of wildlife and the American people.
"Today's repeal of the Public Lands Rule abandons progress at the same moment climate change, chronic drought and accelerating habitat loss demand better stewardship from BLM," said Maddy Munson, senior planning and policy specialist for federal lands at Defenders of Wildlife. "When this rule was finalized almost two years ago, the agency acknowledged then what remains true today: decades of prioritizing resource extraction has resulted in large-scale degradation of habitats which urgently needs to be corrected through improved oversight and restoration. Irrespective of today's repeal, the realities facing our public lands remain, as does BLM's responsibility to sustainably manage them for the benefit of wildlife, communities and future generations."
The BLM administers the 245-million-acre National System of Public Lands -accounting for one in 10 acres in the United States. These lands provide habitat to over 300 threatened and endangered species and an additional 2,460 at-risk species that are unlisted but trending downward. Species found on BLM lands include the Mojave Desert tortoise and the Mexican long-nosed bat, among many others, some of which live nowhere else on earth.
Currently, 81% of the National System of Public Lands is open to oil and gas drilling, and approximately 60% are grazed by livestock, while only 14% are designated for enduring conservation. Decades of BLM management that has focused on extraction and resource development have contributed to the degradation of habitats and landscapes, leaving them less resilient and increasingly vulnerable to compounding pressures.
Nowhere is this crisis more apparent than the Sagebrush Sea, which is considered one of the most threatened ecosystems in North America. Hundreds of at-risk species live within the Sagebrush Sea including the greater sage-grouse, pygmy rabbit, pinyon jay, sage thrasher and brewer's sparrow. U.S. Geological Survey analyses show that only 13.6% of intact core sagebrush habitat remains, and we continue to lose more than 1.3 million acres of sagebrush habitat each year.
***
Original text here: https://defenders.org/newsroom/final-rescission-of-public-lands-rule-reverses-modern-land-management-threatens-wildlife
Final BLM notice scraps milestone "Public Lands Rule"
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Environment] -- The Wilderness Society posted the following news release:
* * *
Final BLM notice scraps milestone "Public Lands Rule"
*
The Department of the Interior noticed rescission of the BLM Public Lands Rule (also known as the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule), stripping much-needed guidance for the nation's largest land agency to follow the balanced approach set for it by Congress nearly 50 years ago. The move culminates a rollback process launched by the administration in the spring of 2025.
Under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, passed
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Environment] -- The Wilderness Society posted the following news release:
* * *
Final BLM notice scraps milestone "Public Lands Rule"
*
The Department of the Interior noticed rescission of the BLM Public Lands Rule (also known as the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule), stripping much-needed guidance for the nation's largest land agency to follow the balanced approach set for it by Congress nearly 50 years ago. The move culminates a rollback process launched by the administration in the spring of 2025.
Under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, passedin 1976, the BLM is legally required to manage lands for "multiple use and sustained yield," to the benefit of current and future generations. The BLM Public Lands Rule, finalized in 2024, laid down long overdue direction to follow that charter. Through the newly announced rescission, the administration is disregarding the agency's statutory authority in a bid to make industrial applications like drilling and mining the default and dominant use of our nation's public lands forever.
Alison Flint, acting vice president for federal policy at The Wilderness Society, made the following statement about the news:
"Public lands provide us the freedom to explore the great outdoors. Congress directed the BLM to manage public lands in a way that balances uses like outdoor recreation with needs as varied as grazing, energy development and conservation of wildlife habitat. The administration's rescission of the BLM Public Lands Rule flouts both the agency's legal mandate and the overwhelming wishes of the American people for public lands to be managed in a balanced and sustainable way that conserves special places for future generations."
Contact: newsmedia@tws.org / mgreenberg@tws.org
***
Original text here: https://www.wilderness.org/articles/press-release/final-blm-notice-scraps-milestone-public-lands-rule
Evidence to impact: How Ascension nurse scientists are advancing care and strengthening outcomes
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Health Care] -- Ascension, a faith-based healthcare organization, posted the following news release:
* * *
Evidence to impact: How Ascension nurse scientists are advancing care and strengthening outcomes
*
Clinical research has its greatest impact when it moves beyond the lab and into real moments at the bedside. At Ascension, nurse scientists turn questions into data, and data into action, shaping how care is delivered every day. Their work drives actionable, evidence-based solutions that improve safety, elevate quality, and strengthen outcomes for our patients.
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Health Care] -- Ascension, a faith-based healthcare organization, posted the following news release:
* * *
Evidence to impact: How Ascension nurse scientists are advancing care and strengthening outcomes
*
Clinical research has its greatest impact when it moves beyond the lab and into real moments at the bedside. At Ascension, nurse scientists turn questions into data, and data into action, shaping how care is delivered every day. Their work drives actionable, evidence-based solutions that improve safety, elevate quality, and strengthen outcomes for our patients.
An approach built for bedside impact
Ascension's nursing research program is grounded in collaboration and a steadfast commitment to driving solutions that directly improve patient care. Ascension's clinically-based nurse scientists start with real questions from the bedside and partner with interdisciplinary teams to pursue studies that are rigorous, functional, and applicable to our clinical practices.
We bring together the real-world expertise of our bedside nurses and operational leaders with the curiosity of four practice-based, PhD-prepared nurse scientists:
* Vallire Hooper, PhD, RN, CPAN, FASPAN, FAAN
* Lesly Kelly, PhD, RN, FAAN
* Cynthia LaFond, PhD, RN, CCRN, FAAN
* Susan Solmos, PhD, RN, CWCN
Together, they lead research that advances care across our Ministry markets while contributing to the nursing profession as a whole.
As the first line of care, nurses play a critical role in championing evidence-based practice, guided by a deep understanding of the science behind nursing. With licensure comes both the authority -and responsibility -to make informed decisions about patient care. We are cultivating a culture where our nurses know their ideas matter and feel empowered to drive meaningful change.
Ascension nursing research has led to:
* $1.02 million in implemented grants
* 109 active studies with nurses as principal investigators or co-investigators in FY26
* 19 peer-reviewed publications including one or more Ascension nurses in FY26
* 13 regional, national, and international professional presentations in FY26
Our nursing research priorities
Guided by our Mission and informed by the voices of nurses who deliver care across our system, our nursing research is anchored in strategic priorities that shape our focus.
* Safety : Advancing research that deepens our understanding of our patients, clinical environments, and care processes to develop solutions and interventions that improve delivery of safe care.
* Workforce : Pursuing research that supports nurse well-being and their ability to deliver excellent care. We examine how the nursing work environment and care processes influence safety, quality, efficiency, and effectiveness. We also explore how social and professional factors influence clinical outcomes - demonstrating that healthy work environments can directly impact patient care.
* Health for all : Driving research that advances the highest level of health for every patient by addressing differences shaped by social, economic, and environmental factors.
The Research Affinity Group: Turning practice questions into solutions
Established in 2021, Ascension's National Nurse Research Affinity Group unites clinical nurses, nurse leaders, nurse scientists, clinical informationists, and other disciplines to advance discovery and improve patient care across the organization.
The group supports nurses in generating and disseminating meaningful knowledge that advances standardized care delivery and improves patient outcomes across Ascension.
Collaborating with the Chief Nursing Executive Council and other Ascension National Nurse Affinity groups, the Research Affinity Group helps identify national research priorities, implement studies to address them, and share study findings internally and externally.
Research in action: Improving outcomes across Ascension
The power of our nursing research is reflected in its measurable impact on our patients, workforce, and communities. From strengthening workforce resilience to reducing preventable harm and health disparities, our nurses are designing and executing studies that address the challenges they encounter every day.
Each milestone moves us closer to a continuously learning health system, where evidence consistently informs action.
Scaling national solutions for patient falls
Falls in acute care settings present significant safety and financial challenges, with each fall averaging approximately $35,000 in direct care costs.
To address this, nurses led by senior nurse scientist Vallire Hooper, PhD, RN, CPAN, FASPAN, FAAN, examined fall risks in emergency departments (ED) and found that a longstanding tool was not effective for ED populations, where the risk factors are different from other acute care environments.
A team of ED nurses suggested implementing KINDER 1, a fall risk assessment designed specifically for emergency care, but the tool had little research to support its clinical use. Hooper and nurse partners in Texas designed pilots to evaluate its effectiveness. After studying nearly 64,000 patients, results showed that KINDER 1 more accurately identified patients at risk of falling.
What started as a challenge raised by ED nurses evolved into a national standard scaled across Ascension.
Enhancing nurse well-being
While the act of caring for others is rewarding, the emotional, physical, and psychological demands can lead to a state of depletion. This risk is especially high for nurses, who regularly witness trauma, pain, and suffering of others combined with the high-stakes nature of their work. Unaddressed, this stress can result in emotional exhaustion, reduced empathy, and burnout, ultimately leading to lower care quality, increased preventable adverse events, and higher turnover.
Senior Nurse Scientist Lesly Kelly, PhD RN FAAN is leading a program of research aimed at strengthening nurse well-being and stabilizing teams -recognizing that workforce health and patient outcomes are inseparable.
Linking turnover and length of stay
Research shows that nursing turnover disrupts workflows, which can contribute to a reduced quality and safety of care. How turnover affects the efficiency of care, including patient length of stay, has not been well-studied.
By examining these dynamics, Ascension is generating evidence to inform staffing models and operational strategies that support both nurses' work environment and patients' access to care.
Advancing pressure injury prevention
We are committed to recognizing where gaps in care exist, and having the courage to study and address them.
Ascension nurses and data scientists, led by Cynthia LaFond, PhD, RN, CCRN, FAAN and Susan Solmos, PhD, RN, CWCN published groundbreaking research examining the relationship between skin tone and pressure injury prevalence and severity.
Evaluating data from more than 55,000 patients worldwide, the team found that patients with medium-dark skin tones experienced higher rates of pressure injuries and up to four times the risk of more severe injuries compared to patients with light-medium skin tones.
This first-of-its-kind research underscores the need to better integrate diverse skin tones into research, education, and practice. Ascension is using these findings to inform policy, refine assessment standards, and enhance care delivery for all patients.
Shaping the future of nursing
Nursing research at Ascension strengthens care delivery today, while advancing the profession for tomorrow.
By translating bedside questions into system-wide solutions, our nurses turn knowledge into measurable outcomes, delivering care that is both science-backed and deeply human. Empowered by evidence, our nurse scientists are building safer environments, strengthening the workforce, and redefining what care can be.
***
Original text here: https://about.ascension.org/news/2026/05/evidence-to-impact-how-ascension-nurse-scientists-are-advancing-care-and-strengthening-outcomes
America First Legal Calls on the Trump Administration to Investigate Baltimore City Public Schools' "Gender Identity" Policies
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Political] -- America First Legal, a civil rights organization, posted the following news release:
* * *
America First Legal Calls on the Trump Administration to Investigate Baltimore City Public Schools' "Gender Identity" Policies
*
America First Legal (AFL) has filed a federal complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of Education (ED) against Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS), alleging that BCPS's "gender identity" policies violate the First and Fourteenth Amendments and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA),
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Political] -- America First Legal, a civil rights organization, posted the following news release:
* * *
America First Legal Calls on the Trump Administration to Investigate Baltimore City Public Schools' "Gender Identity" Policies
*
America First Legal (AFL) has filed a federal complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of Education (ED) against Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS), alleging that BCPS's "gender identity" policies violate the First and Fourteenth Amendments and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA),and urging the Trump Administration to investigate.
AFL's complaint targets BCPS Board Policy JBB, which directs staff to facilitate students' social "gender transitions" -including changes to chosen names, pronouns, athletic participation, access to restrooms and locker rooms, and student records -while gating parental notification on a staff assessment of whether the family is sufficiently "supportive." The policy also declares that where Title IX and FERPA conflict, "the requirements of Title IX override any conflicting student privacy laws," meaning that BCPS will withhold records from parents whenever it views FERPA compliance as inconsistent with its own Title IX interpretation.
Specifically, AFL's complaint alleges that BCPS:
* Violates FERPA by directing staff to withhold "gender transition" information from parents deemed insufficiently "supportive," maintaining a parallel non-official records system to evade parental access, and purporting to subordinate FERPA to Title IX.
* Violates the Free Exercise Clause by cutting parents out of critical decisions about their children's identity and well-being and burdening the religious exercise of objecting families.
* Violates the Free Speech and Equal Protection Clause by conditioning parental access to accurate information on whether the parent holds the government's preferred view on gender ideology.
* Violates the Due Process Clause by depriving parents of their fundamental right to direct the upbringing of their children, without notice or opportunity to be heard.
As the Supreme Court recognized in Mirabelli v. Bonta, policies that "cut out the primary protectors of children's best interests: their parents" cannot survive constitutional scrutiny.
America First Legal is calling on the Trump Administration to investigate BCPS, require it to rescind policies that conceal student information from parents, and comply with all applicable federal law.
"Baltimore City Public Schools has forced parents to the outside, while replacing them with school staff," said Ian Prior, Senior Counsel at America First Legal. "The Supreme Court's decision in Mirabelli blatantly rejects this usurpation of parental rights. These woke school district must know their unlawful usurpation of parental rights will no longer go unquestioned."
Read the full complaint here.
Find all of AFL's resources for parents here.
Learn more about AFL's efforts to challenge "gender identity" policies in schools here.
***
Original text here: https://aflegal.org/press-release/america-first-legal-calls-on-the-trump-administration-to-investigate-baltimore-city-public-schools-gender-identity-policies/
AI Companies Are Recklessly Racing Toward a Cybersecurity Crisis
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Political] -- Public Citizen issued the following news release:
* * *
AI Companies Are Recklessly Racing Toward a Cybersecurity Crisis
*
Google researchers announced Monday that cybercriminals recently used an artificial intelligence model to help create a dangerous zero-day vulnerability capable of exploiting computer networks at scale, marking what experts say is a major turning point in the cybersecurity landscape. A "zero-day" vulnerability is a hidden flaw or weakness in software that hackers discover before the company or public knows about it or has a fix
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Political] -- Public Citizen issued the following news release:
* * *
AI Companies Are Recklessly Racing Toward a Cybersecurity Crisis
*
Google researchers announced Monday that cybercriminals recently used an artificial intelligence model to help create a dangerous zero-day vulnerability capable of exploiting computer networks at scale, marking what experts say is a major turning point in the cybersecurity landscape. A "zero-day" vulnerability is a hidden flaw or weakness in software that hackers discover before the company or public knows about it or has a fixavailable. It's considered especially dangerous because attackers can exploit the flaw immediately, giving defenders "zero days" to protect themselves.
The findings come as leading AI companies, including Anthropic and OpenAI, continue developing increasingly advanced models capable of identifying and exploiting critical software vulnerabilities. Google warned that malicious actors are already using AI to increase the speed, scale, and sophistication of cyberattacks, while researchers have observed state-backed hacking groups linked to China, Russia, and North Korea leveraging AI technologies to automate and refine offensive cyber operations. The developments have intensified concerns that powerful AI systems are being deployed faster than governments and regulators can establish meaningful safeguards to prevent catastrophic misuse.
In response to the growing concerns, Public Citizen's AI governance and technology policy counsel, J.B. Branch, issued the following statement:
"Cybersecurity experts are sounding the alarm, yet AI companies continue racing to release increasingly powerful models with little regard for the societal consequences. It is unthinkable and irresponsible to release technologies capable of destabilizing critical systems and then worry about the fallout afterward. Americans are increasingly rejecting this destabilizing AI arms race. We need enforceable AI regulations that require rigorous safety testing, independent review, and meaningful oversight before these systems ever reach the public. Regulators cannot remain in a perpetual game of catch-up while Big Tech gambles with the safety and stability of modern society."
***
Original text here: https://www.citizen.org/news/ai-companies-are-recklessly-racing-toward-a-cybersecurity-crisis/
AFP-OK Praises Gov. Stitt for Putting Signature to Landmark Guidance Transparency Legislation
ARLINGTON, Virginia, May 11 [Category: Sociological] -- Americans for Prosperity posted the following news release:
* * *
AFP-OK Praises Gov. Stitt for Putting Signature to Landmark Guidance Transparency Legislation
*
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - Americans for Prosperity-Oklahoma (AFP-OK) praised Gov. Kevin Stitt for signing a new guidance transparency bill. Senate Bill (SB) 1433 reforms the state's Administrative Procedures Act to ensure that any state agency guidance documents - such as memos, policy statements, or directives - are made public so that people can better understand how agencies interpret
... Show Full Article
ARLINGTON, Virginia, May 11 [Category: Sociological] -- Americans for Prosperity posted the following news release:
* * *
AFP-OK Praises Gov. Stitt for Putting Signature to Landmark Guidance Transparency Legislation
*
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - Americans for Prosperity-Oklahoma (AFP-OK) praised Gov. Kevin Stitt for signing a new guidance transparency bill. Senate Bill (SB) 1433 reforms the state's Administrative Procedures Act to ensure that any state agency guidance documents - such as memos, policy statements, or directives - are made public so that people can better understand how agencies interpretand enforce laws and regulations.
AFP-OK State Director John Tidwell gave the following statement:
"Oklahomans deserve to know how agencies are directing their staff to enforce laws and regulations that directly affect their personal lives. Bureaucratic rules should not be hidden from the public. It comes down to if we want basic accountability in our state, which is why AFP-OK has pushed for the passage of this bill since day one of the legislative session.
"SB 1433 is a historic win for Oklahomans, the first truly comprehensive guidance transparency package passed by any state. Governor Stitt, Sen. Michael Bergstrom, Rep. Rob Hall, and all lawmakers who supported this bill deserve a resounding thank you for codifying transparency into Oklahoma law. Their previous support for the REINS Act helped make this bill possible, and thanks to their work with us Oklahomans will no longer have to endure arbitrary requirements imposed through informal guidance."
While some states have enacted statutory requirements to list or notice guidance documents, Oklahoma is the first state to enact comprehensive guidance transparency requirements in statute that mandate publication and constrain misuse of informal guidance. Specifically, SB 1433 explicitly requires agencies to state that guidance documents aren't intended to bind the public and do not have the force or effect of the law.
***
Original text here: https://americansforprosperity.org/press-release/afp-ok-applauds-governor-stitt-for-signing-bill-raising-parental-choice-tax-credit-2/
AFP-GA Thanks Governor Kemp for Signing Voluntary Portable Benefits Bill into Law
ARLINGTON, Virginia, May 11 [Category: Sociological] -- Americans for Prosperity posted the following news release:
* * *
AFP-GA Thanks Governor Kemp for Signing Voluntary Portable Benefits Bill into Law
*
ATLANTA, GA - Americans for Prosperity-Georgia (AFP-GA) applauds Governor Brian Kemp for signing HB 987 into law, allowing for companies and individuals to contribute to portable benefit accounts for self-employed workers. These worker-owned accounts would be managed by a bank or third-party provider and would support benefits like health insurance premiums, paid time off, and retirement
... Show Full Article
ARLINGTON, Virginia, May 11 [Category: Sociological] -- Americans for Prosperity posted the following news release:
* * *
AFP-GA Thanks Governor Kemp for Signing Voluntary Portable Benefits Bill into Law
*
ATLANTA, GA - Americans for Prosperity-Georgia (AFP-GA) applauds Governor Brian Kemp for signing HB 987 into law, allowing for companies and individuals to contribute to portable benefit accounts for self-employed workers. These worker-owned accounts would be managed by a bank or third-party provider and would support benefits like health insurance premiums, paid time off, and retirementsavings.
AFP-GA State Director Tony West released the following statement:
"Thank you Governor Kemp for recognizing the value of voluntary portable benefits and signing this legislation into law. Georgia's laws should empower residents to choose the work that best fits their families' needs. AFP-GA will continue our work to make the government work better for the people, rather than vice versa."
***
Original text here: https://americansforprosperity.org/press-release/afp-ga-thanks-governor-kemp-for-signing-voluntary-portable-benefits-bill-into-law/
Ascension Florida encourages women to schedule essential health screenings
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Health Care] -- Ascension, a faith-based healthcare organization, posted the following news release:
* * *
Ascension Florida encourages women to schedule essential health screenings
*
May is Women's Health Month, and May 10 through 16 marks National Women's Health Week. At Ascension Florida sites of care, we are using this time to remind women in our community about the importance of routine health screenings and preventive care.
Many women delay regular health checkups and annual exams. Because routine screenings are essential for identifying health concerns
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 11 [Category: Health Care] -- Ascension, a faith-based healthcare organization, posted the following news release:
* * *
Ascension Florida encourages women to schedule essential health screenings
*
May is Women's Health Month, and May 10 through 16 marks National Women's Health Week. At Ascension Florida sites of care, we are using this time to remind women in our community about the importance of routine health screenings and preventive care.
Many women delay regular health checkups and annual exams. Because routine screenings are essential for identifying health concernsearly, when they are most treatable, our care teams are encouraging patients to schedule their regular health check-ups. Key screenings and wellness markers women should prioritize include:
* Mammograms: Our care teams recommend annual mammograms starting at age 40. Women with a family history of breast cancer should consult with their doctor about beginning these screenings earlier.
* Colon Screenings: Clinical guidelines suggest that most adults begin screenings at age 45. A colonoscopy is a specific type of colon screening that allows physicians to find and remove polyps before they develop into cancer.
* Well-Woman Visits: A yearly well-woman visit is a foundational part of preventive health. These visits typically include a Pap smear to detect cervical cancer and provide an opportunity to discuss physical and emotional health with a provider.
* Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and Blood Sugar: Monitoring these vital health markers helps patients understand their risk for heart disease and diabetes. Tracking these figures allows for the creation of a personalized care plan for long-term health.
Our care teams focus on treating the whole person, including the mind, body and spirit. We are committed to providing professional, personalized care to every individual. This Women's Health Week, we invite you to take a proactive step in your health journey.
To find a doctor or schedule a screening in the Jacksonville area visit ascension.org/StVincentsWomens and in the Northwest Florida Panhandle go to ascension.org/gulfcoastwomens.
***
Original text here: https://about.ascension.org/news/2026/05/ascension-florida-encourages-women-to-schedule-essential-health-screenings
Statement on Proposed Acquisition of North Memorial Health by Sanford Health
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, May 9 -- The Minnesota Nurses Association issued the following statement on May 8, 2026:
* * *
Statement on proposed acquisition of North Memorial Health by Sanford Health
The Minnesota Nurses Association is deeply concerned by today's announcement that South Dakota-based Sanford Health intends to acquire North Memorial Health. This could have far-reaching consequences for patients, healthcare workers, and the communities they serve.
North Memorial Health leaders say the acquisition is necessary to address long-term financial and operational pressures. This announcement
... Show Full Article
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, May 9 -- The Minnesota Nurses Association issued the following statement on May 8, 2026:
* * *
Statement on proposed acquisition of North Memorial Health by Sanford Health
The Minnesota Nurses Association is deeply concerned by today's announcement that South Dakota-based Sanford Health intends to acquire North Memorial Health. This could have far-reaching consequences for patients, healthcare workers, and the communities they serve.
North Memorial Health leaders say the acquisition is necessary to address long-term financial and operational pressures. This announcementputs renewed scrutiny on the system's priorities, long-term planning, and what this means for patients, workers, and public accountability moving forward.
North Memorial Health has used Maple Grove Hospital to strengthen and sustain the broader health system financially. Despite Maple Grove's continued strong performance and ongoing multi-million-dollar expansion investments, North leaders now say the system needs to be acquired to remain financially sustainable.
Those developments increase pressure on North Memorial leaders to explain how staffing, resources, and workforce protections will be protected across the system, including at North Memorial Robbinsdale Hospital. This comes as nearly 600 Maple Grove nurses prepare to vote on whether to authorize a strike amid unresolved issues at the bargaining table over a first contract.
MNA is calling on North Memorial Health to reach a fair contract with Maple Grove and provide clear, enforceable commitments that protect existing union contracts, bargaining rights, and successor protections for nurses across both organizations before moving forward with the acquisition.
Nurses are closely watching how this may impact contracts and benefits, healthcare costs, local-decision making, and the continued corporatization of healthcare services into increasingly large systems.
The announcement also comes as Sanford Health nurses in Bemidji are holding an informational picket today in their own fight for a fair contract, underscoring the importance of strong labor protections and enforceable worker standards during periods of major healthcare consolidation and system changes.
Sanford Health and North Memorial Health must engage in a transparent public review process that includes meaningful input from nurses and other healthcare workers as the Minnesota Attorney General examines how the proposed acquisition could impact patients and communities across the state.
* * *
Original text here: https://mnnurses.org/statement-statement-on-proposed-acquisition-of-north-memorial-health-and-sanford-health/
[Category: Nursing]
NYSNA Nurses at NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital Speak Out for Patient and Nurse Safety
NEW YORK, May 9 -- The New York State Nurses Association issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
* * *
NYSNA Nurses at NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital Speak Out for Patient and Nurse Safety
Nurses Sound the Alarm on Rise in Workplace Violence, Demand a Fair Contract that Protects Nurses and Patients
With Contract Expired, Nurses Escalate Campaign for Safe Staffing and a Fair Contract
*
Brooklyn, N.Y.- Today, New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) nurses at NewYork-Presbyterian-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital spoke out for a fair contract that improves patient and nurse safety. The
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, May 9 -- The New York State Nurses Association issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
* * *
NYSNA Nurses at NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital Speak Out for Patient and Nurse Safety
Nurses Sound the Alarm on Rise in Workplace Violence, Demand a Fair Contract that Protects Nurses and Patients
With Contract Expired, Nurses Escalate Campaign for Safe Staffing and a Fair Contract
*
Brooklyn, N.Y.- Today, New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) nurses at NewYork-Presbyterian-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital spoke out for a fair contract that improves patient and nurse safety. Thecontract for nearly 1,600 nurses at the hospital expired on April 30, and nurses are demanding a fair contract that delivers enforceable safe staffing standards, protections from workplace violence, respect for nurses' clinical judgement over artificial intelligence, fair wages and benefits, and more.
Several recent incidents of workplace harassment and violence, including an active shooter incident in January, have focused NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital nurses on improving safety at the hospital. Starting in the early morning and ending in the afternoon, hundreds of nurses marched, chanted and carried signs in front of the hospital for an informational picket to raise awareness about their demands.
Nurses have been bargaining for enforceable safe staffing standards to ensure there are always enough nurses to safely care for Brooklyn patients. The busy emergency department is often understaffed, increasing the risk of workplace violence.
Local NYSNA President at NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Aldrich Crespino, RN, said: "Nurses are advocating to improve staffing at the hospital. We are fighting for minimum safe staffing standards to make sure our patients are always safe, and for expedited arbitration to address problems quickly when they arise."
NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital has a history of fighting against nurses' efforts to fix understaffing at the hospital. In August 2024, the nurses brought hospital management to arbitration over understaffing in four interconnected units--labor and delivery, pediatrics, pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) and neonatal ICU. NewYork-Presbyterian used its substantial resources on legal maneuvers to delay the hearing, avoiding accountability to this day.
Nurses experience some of the highest rates of workplace violence. Protection from workplace violence is another priority in the wake of a rising tide of violence in the hospital. From an active shooter incident in January to several incidents where nurses were harassed, groped and assaulted, nurses are looking for stronger protections, including a behavioral health rapid response team to deal with patients or visitors in mental health crisis.
NY-Brooklyn Methodist nurse and NYSNA local leader Sharonda Green, RN, said: "Recently, many nurses at NYP-Brooklyn Methodist have experienced and been victims of a multitude of abusive and violent incidents, including sexual assaults and witnessing fatal events. During bargaining, we proposed several solutions to provide a safe environment for our patients and staff. It's time for management to listen to the nurses."
This contract fight comes on the heels of the largest and longest nurses strike in New York City history, where nurses at several hospitals including NewYork-Presbyterian won improvements to enforceable safe staffing standards, workplace violence protections, safeguards on the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare, protections for our most vulnerable patients, and fair wages and benefits.
NYSNA President Nancy Hagans, RN, BSN, CCRN, said: "Nurses and patients in Brooklyn deserve the same safety and respect as NYP nurses and patients in Manhattan. NewYork-Presbyterian needs to do the right thing and negotiate a fair contract with NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital nurses. If other New York City private sector hospitals, including safety-net hospitals, can deliver safe staffing, protections from workplace violence and fair wages and benefits, so can NewYork-Presbyterian in Brooklyn."
NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital nurses have been escalating their campaign for a fair contract. On April 24, nurses showed their solidarity by wearing buttons at work reading "Fair Contact Now" and "Safe Nurses = Safe Patients." On the same day, dozens of members gathered at bargaining to deliver a petition of their bargaining priorities to management signed by over 1,100 RNs. Nurses have also been busy reaching out to the surrounding community. Approximately 50 businesses have put up store signs in solidarity with NYSNA nurses.
Assembly Member Robert Carroll said: "I am proud to stand with the nurses at New York Presbyterian Methodist Hospital and support their demands for a fair and equitable contract that ensures sufficient staffing and strong workplace health and safety protections. Our community depends on the nurses at Methodist and they deserve a contract that enables them to best serve patients and working conditions that afford them respect."
"Every day, nurses show up for their patients with compassion, professionalism, and care. They deserve contracts that respect the essential work they do and recognize the critical role they play in our communities. I am proud to stand with NYSNA nurses at Brooklyn Methodist as they fight for a fair and equitable contract," said Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon.
Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest said: "The nurses at NYP-Brooklyn Methodist are fighting for the same thing every nurse in this city is fighting for: enough staff to do this job the way our patients deserve, and the right to come home safe. NewYork-Presbyterian has the resources to settle a fair contract. What they're showing Brooklyn right now is that they don't have the will. That has to change, and I stand with these nurses until it does."
City Council Member and Council Hospitals Chair Mercedes Narcisse said: "NYP Brooklyn Methodist nurses deserve a contract that reflects the work they do for our community every day. When hospitals refuse to bargain in good faith, it's not just nurses who pay the price. It's the patients and families who depend on them. I stand with my fellow nurses and call on the administration to come to the table and get this done."
City Council Member Alexa Aviles said: "I am proud to stand in solidarity with NYSNA nurses in Park Slope. These strong healthcare workers put in the hours and effort to ensure that our neighbors are healthy and safe. Their workplace protections are invaluable for our communities. They ensure better care and support for those in need."
City Council Member Kayla Santosuosso said: "I stand with the Nurses of NYP Brooklyn Methodist Hospital in their fight to secure a fair contract. Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system and deserve fair wages and benefits. I urge the hospital administration to engage with the union in good faith and listen to the needs of those on the front lines of healthcare."
"CUFFH stands with nurses at Presbyterian Methodist Hospital as they begin their contract negotiations this Month. Their work is vital in keeping our community safe and healthy in Central Brooklyn. In 2026, we can't wait any longer -- nurses need safe staffing to support patient care, fair wages and job protections. We look forward to the hospital respecting the strength and power of the union and will support and recognize NYSNA and our nurses however we can as they push for a fair contract!" -- Rob Solano, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Churches United for Fair Housing (CUFFH).
"All workers deserve safety and dignity on the job, and for nurses that means safe staffing, fair wages, worker protections, and quality patient care from nurses, not artificial intelligence. ALIGN stood with NYSNA during the largest nurses' strike in our city's history, and we stand with NYP-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital nurses now, who deserve the same standards as their union siblings in Manhattan. Invest in patients by investing in nurses -- deliver a fair contract," said Theodore A. Moore, ALIGN Executive Director.
* * *
The New York State Nurses Association represents more than 42,000 members in New York State. We are New York's largest union and professional association for registered nurses. NYSNA is an affiliate of National Nurses United, AFL-CIO, the country's largest and fastest-growing union and professional association of registered nurses, with more than 225,000 members nationwide
* * *
Original text here: https://www.nysna.org/press/nysna-nurses-nyp-brooklyn-methodist-hospital-speak-out-patient-and-nurse-safety
[Category: Union]
Minnesota Nurses Association: Nurses Picket Sanford Bemidji Medical Center Seeking a New Contract That Stabilizes the Workforce
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, May 9 (TNSrep) -- The Minnesota Nurses Association issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
* * *
Nurses picket Sanford Bemidji Medical Center seeking a new contract that stabilizes the workforce
BEMIDJI, MN - Dozens of nurses with the Minnesota Nurses Association, joined by community supporters held an informational picket today to highlight nurses' concerns at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center. Over 400 nurses have been bargaining since February with the hospital as they fight for a contract that values a stabilized workforce, invests in highly skilled nurses and
... Show Full Article
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, May 9 (TNSrep) -- The Minnesota Nurses Association issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
* * *
Nurses picket Sanford Bemidji Medical Center seeking a new contract that stabilizes the workforce
BEMIDJI, MN - Dozens of nurses with the Minnesota Nurses Association, joined by community supporters held an informational picket today to highlight nurses' concerns at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center. Over 400 nurses have been bargaining since February with the hospital as they fight for a contract that values a stabilized workforce, invests in highly skilled nurses andreduces turnover rates that disrupt continuity of care.
"Highly skilled nurses want to work in Bemidji to uphold the quality-of-care patients deserve," said Jessica Mistic, RN at Sanford Bemidji. "Nurses are fighting for a contract where the employer relies on highly skilled nurses and attracts new ones instead of temporary staff as a solution to nurse turnover."
On average, data from the 2025 NSI National Health Care Retention & RN Staffing Report (https://staffreliefinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/NSI_National_Health_Care_Retention_Report.pdf) reveals hospitals lose millions of dollars each year because of nurse turnover.
"This is about patient care, safety and security at the bedside," said Lorrie Dols, RN at Sanford Bemidji. "Hospital leaders must prioritize nurse retention and recruitment for critical patient care and the stability of the nursing workforce in greater Minnesota."
The informational picket comes the same day Sanford Health announced plans to merge with North Memorial Health. The announcement underscores the importance of strong labor protections, good-faith bargaining, and enforceable worker standards during periods of major healthcare consolidation and system changes.
Today's informational picket was not a work stoppage. The contract for Sanford Bemidji Medical Center nurses expired on February 28, 2026. Nurses are committed to having productive negotiations with the employer with patients at the center of their contract fight.
* * *
Original text here: https://mnnurses.org/nurses-picket-sanford-bemidji-medical-center-seeking-a-new-contract-that-stabilizes-the-workforce/
[Category: Nursing]
FFRF Action Fund: 'Secularist' Mia Farrow Avows State/church Wall
MADISON, Wisconsin, May 9 -- FFRF Action Fund, an organization that says it develops and advocates for legislation, regulations and government programs to preserve the constitutional principle of separation between state and church, posted the following news on May 8, 2026:
* * *
'Secularist' Mia Farrow avows state/church wall
The FFRF Action Fund honors renowned actress and activist Mia Farrow as its "Secularist of the Week" for her strong affirmation of the constitutional separation between state and church.
Farrow took to BlueSky at the end of April to dismiss the Christian nationalist myth
... Show Full Article
MADISON, Wisconsin, May 9 -- FFRF Action Fund, an organization that says it develops and advocates for legislation, regulations and government programs to preserve the constitutional principle of separation between state and church, posted the following news on May 8, 2026:
* * *
'Secularist' Mia Farrow avows state/church wall
The FFRF Action Fund honors renowned actress and activist Mia Farrow as its "Secularist of the Week" for her strong affirmation of the constitutional separation between state and church.
Farrow took to BlueSky at the end of April to dismiss the Christian nationalist myththat the United States is a Christian nation while declaring her commitment to state/church separation.
"I don't want to live in a Christian country," Farrow asserted. "I want to live in a country where I can choose to be Christian, or Jewish, or Hindu, or Buddhist, or atheist. Freedom. Separation of church and state."
In addition to her acting career, Farrow is well-known for her dedicated humanitarian and environmental activism.
FFRF Action Fund sincerely thanks Farrow for publicly declaring the importance of separating state and church as essential for true freedom in our country. Consigning the United States to the status of a Christian nation obscures American history and undermines constitutional state/church separation -- as well as the rights of those of other religions and nonreligion.
Prominent public figures like Farrow are needed as allies as we fight to safeguard our secular democracy.
* * *
FFRF Action Fund is a 501(c)(4) organization that develops and advocates for legislation, regulations and government programs to preserve the constitutional principle of separation between state and church. It also advocates for the rights and views of nonbelievers, endorses candidates for political office, and publicizes the views of elected officials concerning religious liberty issues.
* * *
Original text here: https://ffrfaction.org/secularist-mia-farrow-avows-state-church-wall/
[Category: Sociological]
Club for Growth PAC Endorses Jackson Lahmeyer in OK-01 Race
WASHINGTON, May 9 -- Club for Growth, an advocacy organization, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
* * *
Club for Growth PAC Endorses Jackson Lahmeyer in OK-01 Race
Club for Growth PAC has endorsed Pastor Jackson Lahmeyer in Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District. Lahmeyer has been endorsed by President Trump, and he was the founder of Pastors for Trump.
"As a pastor, Jackson Lahmeyer stood up to big-government bureaucrats by refusing to enforce lockdowns and mask mandates, and he's going to do the same thing in the Washington Swamp as a Member of Congress," said Club for Growth
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 9 -- Club for Growth, an advocacy organization, issued the following news release on May 8, 2026:
* * *
Club for Growth PAC Endorses Jackson Lahmeyer in OK-01 Race
Club for Growth PAC has endorsed Pastor Jackson Lahmeyer in Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District. Lahmeyer has been endorsed by President Trump, and he was the founder of Pastors for Trump.
"As a pastor, Jackson Lahmeyer stood up to big-government bureaucrats by refusing to enforce lockdowns and mask mandates, and he's going to do the same thing in the Washington Swamp as a Member of Congress," said Club for GrowthPAC President David McIntosh. "Lahmeyer is a conservative champion that will support limited government and economic freedom, and we are proud to join President Trump in endorsing him."
Club for Growth PAC is affiliated with Club for Growth Action, the nation's largest conservative Super PAC. In 2024, Club for Growth PAC endorsed candidates won 79% of their elections.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.clubforgrowth.org/club-for-growth-pac-endorses-jackson-lahmeyer-in-ok-01-race/
[Category: Political]
Americans for Tax Reform: Small Business Deduction Shouldn't Exclude Independent Financial Advisors
WASHINGTON, May 9 -- Americans for Tax Reform posted the following commentary by Mike Palicz:
* * *
Small Business Deduction Shouldn't Exclude Independent Financial Advisors
Americans for Tax Reform urges the Trump Treasury Department to issue guidance allowing independent financial advisors to fully qualify for the 20 percent small business deduction.
The Working Family Tax Cuts passed by the Republican Congress and signed into law by President Trump delivered historic, permanent tax relief for small and individually owned businesses through the 20 percent Deduction for Qualified Business
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 9 -- Americans for Tax Reform posted the following commentary by Mike Palicz:
* * *
Small Business Deduction Shouldn't Exclude Independent Financial Advisors
Americans for Tax Reform urges the Trump Treasury Department to issue guidance allowing independent financial advisors to fully qualify for the 20 percent small business deduction.
The Working Family Tax Cuts passed by the Republican Congress and signed into law by President Trump delivered historic, permanent tax relief for small and individually owned businesses through the 20 percent Deduction for Qualified BusinessIncome (199a).
The Section 199A Small Business Deduction
The Working Family Tax Cuts permanently extended the tax deduction for Qualified Business Income (199a) for small businesses (partnership, S corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.) at 20 percent. The bill also eases the impact of previous limitations by increasing the phase-in range from the previous $50,000 (non-joint returns) and $100,000 (joint returns) amounts to $75,000 and $150,000, respectively. The tax cuts also introduced a more generous inflation-adjusted minimum deduction of $400 for taxpayers who have at least $1,000 of QBI from one or more active trades or businesses in which the taxpayer materially participates. This ensures small business owners with a certain QBI level are entitled to an enhanced baseline deduction.
Current Rule-Making Inadvertently Excludes Independent Financial Advisors
While this deduction was intended to provide broad-based tax relief for individually owned businesses, subsequent regulatory restrictions have inadvertently excluded thousands of independent financial advisors from qualifying for the deduction.
As economist Stephen Moore points out:
"These independents add value to investors and senior citizens by building longstanding personal relationships and offering first-hand financial advice tailored to the client's personal situation. But now they face an unfair and unreasonable additional hurdle: tax rates higher than Congress intended. Instead of having their top marginal income tax rate cut from 39.6% to 29.6%, like other small businesses, they face a 37% rate because Treasury Department bureaucrats excluded them from the full benefit of the small business tax deduction."
This higher taxation on these small business owners will lead to higher costs for consumers and reduce the ability of independent financial advisors to provide financial advice and services for American families.
Tax Code Shouldn't Pick Winners and Losers
Section 199A was created in the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts to create parity in the tax treatment between pass-through businesses and their corporate competitors benefiting from the reduced corporate income tax rate.
However, the current characterization of independent financial advisors as specified service trade or businesses (SSTBs) places these small business owners at a competitive disadvantage and paying higher taxes than other small businesses offering similar services, such as insurance brokers.
The government should not pick winners and losers in the marketplace. Inequitable treatment in the tax code should always be corrected through lowering taxes and regulatory burdens to provide equal treatment for competition.
Thankfully, President Trump's Treasury Department can correct the tax treatment of these small business owners by correcting Treasury guidance that characterizes independent financial advisors as specified service trade or businesses (SSTBs) and allow them to fully qualify for the 20 percent small business deduction.
* * *
Original text here: https://atr.org/small-business-deduction-shouldnt-exclude-independent-financial-advisors/
[Category: Political]
ADL Statement on Guilty Plea and Sentencing of Man Responsible for Antisemitic Boulder Firebombing Attack
NEW YORK, May 9 -- The Anti-Defamation League, an anti-hate organization that aims to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment for all, posted the following statement on May 7, 2026:
* * *
ADL Statement on Guilty Plea and Sentencing of Man Responsible for Antisemitic Boulder Firebombing Attack
ADL (the Anti-Defamation League) today released the following statement on the guilty plea and sentencing of Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the individual responsible for the antisemitic firebombing in Boulder, Colorado, at a peaceful Run for Their Lives walk to bring attention
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, May 9 -- The Anti-Defamation League, an anti-hate organization that aims to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment for all, posted the following statement on May 7, 2026:
* * *
ADL Statement on Guilty Plea and Sentencing of Man Responsible for Antisemitic Boulder Firebombing Attack
ADL (the Anti-Defamation League) today released the following statement on the guilty plea and sentencing of Mohamed Sabry Soliman, the individual responsible for the antisemitic firebombing in Boulder, Colorado, at a peaceful Run for Their Lives walk to bring attentionto the hostages being held by Hamas.
We welcome today's guilty plea and sentencing of the man responsible for taking the life of Karen Diamond and injuring 28 others in one of the most shocking antisemitic acts in American history. This attack deeply traumatized the entire Jewish community and served as a reminder of what can happen when antisemitism is normalized in society.
No act of justice will bring back the life of Ms. Diamond, nor will it heal the wounds of those who suffered as a result of this horrific attack on a peaceful group of Americans.
We are deeply grateful for the work of law enforcement and District Attorney Michael Dougherty and his staff for pursuing justice in this case.
This firebombing was not a random act. The perpetrator planned this attack for over a year, targeting Jewish community members who were peacefully and publicly expressing their values. This demands a serious response, but the resolution of the state charges is just the beginning of the long road to justice for the victims. As ADL's latest data reveals, 2025 was the most violent year on record for American Jews since we started tracking this data in the 1970s, and last year saw the murder of three people in antisemitic attacks, including in Boulder. We are grateful to Gov. Polis for his partnership in securing additional Non-Profit Security Grant funding to help keep our communities safe, and we are working with individuals, families, schools and elected officials to confront antisemitism every single day.
* * *
ADL is the leading anti-hate organization in the world. Founded in 1913, its timeless mission is "to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all." Today, ADL continues to fight all forms of antisemitism and bias, using innovation and partnerships to drive impact. A global leader in combating antisemitism, countering extremism and battling bigotry wherever and whenever it happens, ADL works to protect democracy and ensure a just and inclusive society for all.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.adl.org/resources/press-release/adl-statement-guilty-plea-and-sentencing-man-responsible-antisemitic
[Category: Political]
