Public Policy & NGOs
Here's a look at documents from public policy and non-governmental organizations
Featured Stories
PETA Statement: Silence From CDC After Mississippi Monkeys Escape is Unconscionable
HEIDELBERG, Mississippi, Nov. 1 -- People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals issued the following news release on Oct. 31, 2025:
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Silence from CDC After Mississippi Monkeys Escape is Unconscionable: PETA Statement
Please see the following statement from PETA Senior Science Advisor on Primate Experimentation Dr. Lisa Jones-Engel, regarding the absence of response by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention while three escaped rhesus macaques fleeing an overturned truck from Tulane National Primate Research Center are still being hunted by state and local authorities days after their
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HEIDELBERG, Mississippi, Nov. 1 -- People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals issued the following news release on Oct. 31, 2025:
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Silence from CDC After Mississippi Monkeys Escape is Unconscionable: PETA Statement
Please see the following statement from PETA Senior Science Advisor on Primate Experimentation Dr. Lisa Jones-Engel, regarding the absence of response by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention while three escaped rhesus macaques fleeing an overturned truck from Tulane National Primate Research Center are still being hunted by state and local authorities days after theirescape:
"Three escaped rhesus macaques are still being hunted in Jasper County, and the only information the public has received about the potential for the spread of a nasty disease has come from Tulane National Primate Research Center, a facility with a lengthy record of federal violations and a vested interest in downplaying risk. Where is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Once monkeys leave import quarantine, the CDC claims they are no longer its responsibility--yet these animals remain part of a trade that has repeatedly introduced dangerous pathogens into the U.S. This inaction leaves the Mississippi public at the mercy of Tulane, which claims there is no reason to worry, even while their own personnel wear head-to-toe protective gear while trying to recapture the remaining monkeys, and refuse to reveal their ownership, destination, intended use, or disease status. The CDC's silence in Mississippi is reckless. In a letter sent today, PETA urges the agency to protect communities from the dangers posed by the primate trade and the entrenched pathogens in primate facilities, including Tulane."
PETA--whose motto reads, in part, that "animals are not ours to experiment on"--points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.
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Original text here: https://www.peta.org/media/news-releases/silence-from-cdc-after-mississippi-monkeys-escape-is-unconscionable-peta-statement/
[Category: Animals]
National Immigration Forum: New Annual Refugee Cap Undermines America's Tradition of Welcoming
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 -- The National Immigration Forum issued the following news release:
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New Annual Refugee Cap Undermines America's Tradition of Welcoming
The Trump administration has set a refugee admission annual cap of 7,500 for fiscal year 2026, a historic low at a time of heightened global instability. The cap comes with the instruction that admissions "primarily be allocated among Afrikaners from South Africa pursuant to Executive Order 14204." The following is a quote from Jennie Murray, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum:
"The administration's decision to set
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 -- The National Immigration Forum issued the following news release:
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New Annual Refugee Cap Undermines America's Tradition of Welcoming
The Trump administration has set a refugee admission annual cap of 7,500 for fiscal year 2026, a historic low at a time of heightened global instability. The cap comes with the instruction that admissions "primarily be allocated among Afrikaners from South Africa pursuant to Executive Order 14204." The following is a quote from Jennie Murray, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum:
"The administration's decision to seta low admissions cap is deeply disappointing and contrasts with America's longstanding tradition of welcoming the persecuted."
"The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program has been a vital tool strengthens our national security and bolsters our economy, in addition to honoring human dignity. Refugees -- including persecuted religious minorities -- are the most thoroughly vetted individuals entering the United States, and their admission through orderly, well-managed pathways reflects our nation's commitment to offering protection to those fleeing violence and discrimination."
"The administration and Congress should work on long-term immigration solutions that allow our country to keep honoring our tradition of welcoming."
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Original text here: https://forumtogether.org/article/new-annual-refugee-cap-undermines-americas-tradition-of-welcoming/
[Category: International]
FRAC Applauds Courts' Orders Securing November SNAP, Urges USDA to Fully Fund Benefits Quickly
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 -- The Food Research and Action Center issued the following news release:
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FRAC Applauds Courts' Orders Securing November SNAP, Urges USDA to Fully Fund Benefits Quickly
Statement attributable to Crystal FitzSimons, president, Food Research & Action Center
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We are relieved that two Federal District Court judges have taken steps to mitigate the hunger crisis that would unfold when the 42 million people, including children, older adults, people with disabilities, and veterans, who rely on SNAP to put food on the table do not receive their benefits. SNAP serves as a lifeline.
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 -- The Food Research and Action Center issued the following news release:
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FRAC Applauds Courts' Orders Securing November SNAP, Urges USDA to Fully Fund Benefits Quickly
Statement attributable to Crystal FitzSimons, president, Food Research & Action Center
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We are relieved that two Federal District Court judges have taken steps to mitigate the hunger crisis that would unfold when the 42 million people, including children, older adults, people with disabilities, and veterans, who rely on SNAP to put food on the table do not receive their benefits. SNAP serves as a lifeline.It reduces hunger, stimulates local economies, and improves public health.
Given the court orders directing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide SNAP benefits using the contingency funds and to report back whether or not they will also utilize additional funds to fully fund SNAP benefits, we call on USDA to respond to the urgency of the situation, act without delay, and release the full November SNAP benefits now. Changing course and providing benefits is not as simple as turning a switch, so USDA must move swiftly to limit the harm.
FRAC will continue to monitor the situation.
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Original text here: https://frac.org/news/courtrulingsnovembersnapoct2025
[Category: Food/Beverage]
Environmental Law and Policy Center: Illinois Passes Transit Funding & Reform Bill
CHICAGO, Illinois, Nov. 1 -- The Environmental Law and Policy Center issued the following news release on Oct. 31, 2025:
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Illinois Passes Transit Funding & Reform Bill
"Transit is essential for millions of Illinoisans - and for the environment."
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Springfield, IL - Today, Illinois leaders came together to save public transportation and re-invest in its future with the passage of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act.
STATEMENT BY KEVIN BRUBAKER, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, ENVIRONMENTAL LAW & POLICY CENTER
"Thanks to the General Assembly, Illinois is on the right track to fix and
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, Nov. 1 -- The Environmental Law and Policy Center issued the following news release on Oct. 31, 2025:
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Illinois Passes Transit Funding & Reform Bill
"Transit is essential for millions of Illinoisans - and for the environment."
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Springfield, IL - Today, Illinois leaders came together to save public transportation and re-invest in its future with the passage of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act.
STATEMENT BY KEVIN BRUBAKER, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, ENVIRONMENTAL LAW & POLICY CENTER
"Thanks to the General Assembly, Illinois is on the right track to fix andfund public transit. For the first time, Northern Illinois transit will have both the operating resources and oversight needed to allow seamless, safe, and reliable transit across the region."
"Transit is essential for millions of Illinoisans - and for the environment. The General Assembly's votes early this morning ensure that we not only save the public transit system we have but protect its future as well. After years of conversations and months of negotiations, this transformational investment ensures communities in Chicagoland and throughout the state will see better bus, train, and paratransit service.
"We look forward to supporting the transit agencies as they embark on this bold new path forward. Fast, safe, clean, and reliable transit is critical for our economy and environment."
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Original text here: https://elpc.org/news/illinois-passes-transit-funding-reform-bill/
[Category: Environment]
Environmental Entrepreneurs Statement: Illinois General Assembly Passes Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act, Solidifies State as a Clean EnergyLeader, Bringing Billions in Benefits to Businesses & Residents
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 -- Environmental Entrepreneurs issued the following news release:
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E2 STATEMENT: Illinois General Assembly Passes Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA Act), Solidifies State as a Clean Energy Leader, Bringing Billions in Benefits to Businesses & Residents
SPRINGFIELD - As of last night, both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly passed the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability (CRGA) Act, a major milestone for clean energy. The bill now awaits the signature of Governor JB Pritzker, a supporter of the legislation. The energy omnibus is expected to deliver
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 -- Environmental Entrepreneurs issued the following news release:
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E2 STATEMENT: Illinois General Assembly Passes Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA Act), Solidifies State as a Clean Energy Leader, Bringing Billions in Benefits to Businesses & Residents
SPRINGFIELD - As of last night, both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly passed the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability (CRGA) Act, a major milestone for clean energy. The bill now awaits the signature of Governor JB Pritzker, a supporter of the legislation. The energy omnibus is expected to deliverbillions of dollars in energy savings to businesses and residents alike in Illinois. Businesses leaders from across the state have shown their support for CRGA Act and the role it will play in solidifying Illinois' clean energy economy.
"In light of federal rollbacks of clean energy tax credits and environmental protections, it is more important than ever that Illinois remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a clean energy economy. Businesses will feel the effects of CRGA thanks to a more reliable grid in all conditions and an environment more conducive to quickly building clean energy," said Micaela Preskill, State Advocacy Director at E2, the nonpartisan business group.
Earlier this month, E2 released its Clean Jobs Midwest report for Illinois which highlights the state as the region's clean energy jobs leader. According to E2's Clean Jobs America report - released in September - Illinois boasts the fifth most clean energy jobs in the country, trailing only California, Texas, Florida, and New York.
The following are statements from two clean energy business leaders in Illinois:
"This is a huge win for Illinois businesses and families alike. By investing in energy efficiency, battery storage, and a stronger grid, lawmakers have given companies like mine the certainty we need to keep hiring and growing in Illinois. This forward-looking policy will lower costs, create jobs, and ensure reliable power for everyone," said Jamie Johnson, Founder of Verde Energy Efficiency. Energy efficiency comprises about two-thirds of Illinois's clean energy jobs.
"Passage of the CRGA Act is a victory for clean energy, affordability, and Illinois workers. This bill gives our industry the stability to invest, expand, and create good jobs across the state. It's exactly the kind of leadership we need to keep Illinois at the forefront of the clean-energy economy," said Michelle Knox, Founder of WindSolarUSA. Renewable energy is the second largest clean energy sector in the state.
To speak with local business leaders in Illinois or to learn more about Clean Energy & Vehicle jobs in the state, please contact Daniel Baker at dbaker@e2.org.
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Original text here: https://e2.org/releases/e2-statement-illinois-general-assembly-passes-clean-and-reliable-grid-affordability-act-crga-act-solidifies-state-as-a-clean-energy-leader-bringing-billions-in-benefits-to-businesses-residents/
[Category: Environment]
Center for Internet Security's CIS Cares Program Champions Literacy and Classroom Innovation
EAST GREENBUSH, New York, Nov. 1 -- The Center for Internet Security issued the following news release:
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Center for Internet Security's CIS Cares Program Champions Literacy and Classroom Innovation
Focused on supporting education and literacy, employees at the Center for Internet Security, Inc (CIS) have rallied around several meaningful campaigns in Q3, contributing time, resources, and enthusiasm to help learners of all ages thrive.
The employee-led program, CIS Cares, encourages charitable giving and volunteerism both individually and as a team, in communities across the United States.
... Show Full Article
EAST GREENBUSH, New York, Nov. 1 -- The Center for Internet Security issued the following news release:
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Center for Internet Security's CIS Cares Program Champions Literacy and Classroom Innovation
Focused on supporting education and literacy, employees at the Center for Internet Security, Inc (CIS) have rallied around several meaningful campaigns in Q3, contributing time, resources, and enthusiasm to help learners of all ages thrive.
The employee-led program, CIS Cares, encourages charitable giving and volunteerism both individually and as a team, in communities across the United States.The theme for Q3 focused on education.
Fostering a Love for Reading
CIS employees raised $400 in donations for Reading Is Fundamental, and its Books for Ownership program that empowers children to build personal libraries and develop lifelong reading habits.
In celebration of CIS's 25th anniversary, CIS Cares teamed up with the Events Team, and the IDEA Alliance to launch the CIS 25th Anniversary Reading Challenge. Employees committed to reading 231 books, and upon reaching the goal, CIS donated an additional $600 -- bringing the total contribution to $1,000 and providing 200 books to children in need.
Empowering Classrooms
CIS employees voted to support classroom projects via DonorsChoose, raising $307 to fully fund two initiatives:
* Bringing STEM to 5th Grade Students at the Linguistic Academy of El Paso, TX
* Upcycle Innovation Station Project at Petree Elementary School, Winston-Salem, NC
These projects provide students with hands-on learning opportunities and creative exploration tools, enhancing their educational experiences.
Advancing Adult Literacy
CIS Cares also supported adult education by encouraging employees to use their volunteer time off (VTO) hours to support ProLiteracy, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing adult literacy through nearly 1,000 U.S. programs. By volunteering, CIS employees helped empower adults with essential reading and writing skills, reinforcing the belief that literacy is a lifelong journey.
To learn more about CIS Cares and its ongoing initiatives, visit cisecurity.org.
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Original text here: https://www.cisecurity.org/about-us/media/press-release/center-for-internet-securitys-cis-cares-program-champions-literacy-and-classroom-innovation
[Category: Computer Technology]
CBO: Ongoing Government Shutdown Will Cost Taxpayers Billions In Lost Economic Output
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 -- Americans for Tax Reform posted the following commentary:
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CBO: Ongoing Government Shutdown Will Cost Taxpayers Billions In Lost Economic Output
By Rachel Loren
A new report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) quantifies the economic fallout of the federal government shutdown that began on October 1st. The figures support what taxpayers already know: the cost of the shutdown is high.
According to CBO data, if the shutdown lasts eight weeks, the economy will permanently lose up to $14 billion in GDP, even after the delayed federal spending is made up. The report
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 -- Americans for Tax Reform posted the following commentary:
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CBO: Ongoing Government Shutdown Will Cost Taxpayers Billions In Lost Economic Output
By Rachel Loren
A new report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) quantifies the economic fallout of the federal government shutdown that began on October 1st. The figures support what taxpayers already know: the cost of the shutdown is high.
According to CBO data, if the shutdown lasts eight weeks, the economy will permanently lose up to $14 billion in GDP, even after the delayed federal spending is made up. The reportalso revealed that Washington's gridlock can quickly disrupt the economy, with annualized economic growth in the fourth quarter of 2025 expected to be 1 to 2 percentage points lower than it would have been.
These losses are attributed primarily to the halt in discretionary spending, including delays in government contracts, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and employee pay. Roughly 600,000 "excepted" employees continue working with delayed compensation while an estimated 650,000 federal workers have been furloughed without pay.
The result is a staggering decline in government outlays. It's estimated at about $33 billion for a four-week shutdown, $54 billion for a six-week shutdown, and $74 billion for eight weeks.
Even after appropriations resume, the CBO warns, the lost output will not be fully recovered. The report states: "Although most of the decline in real GDP will be recovered eventually, CBO estimates that between $7 billion and $14 billion will not be."
The shutdown also temporarily increased unemployment because the recently furloughed workers are counted as "unemployed on temporary layoff" by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The CBO estimates that this directly accounts for the 0.4% jump in the unemployment rate.
As the Democrats continue to downplay the economic toll, the report highlights that federal bloat intensifies the pain of a government shutdown. Agency programs and mandates create dependencies that collapse when Congress fails to act. Shutdowns cause real financial harm to American families, businesses, and taxpayers in addition to the burden of bureaucratic annoyances.
The shutdown serves as a warning to lawmakers. Shutdowns are a sign of an overburdened and inefficient government system. Its Taxpayers who end up bearing the cost of a government unable to sustain it's own operations.
By cutting spending and getting rid of redundancies, lawmakers can regain fiscal responsibility and make sure that the government's core responsibilities aren't held hostage to political brinkmanship
Until Congress takes significant steps to reduce the size and reach of government, shutdowns can remain an expensive consequence of a dysfunctional system.
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Original text here: https://atr.org/cbo-ongoing-government-shutdown-will-cost-taxpayers-billions-in-lost-economic-output/
[Category: Political]
