Targeted News Service

OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, March 27 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release:

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Drummond asking for help in combating prison cell phone contraband

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 26, 2025) - Attorney General Gentner Drummond is calling on the U.S. Congress to pass legislation that will allow Oklahoma to deploy cell phone jamming systems in prisons. Federal law currently bans the use of this technology.

H.R. 2350 and S. 1137 aims to disrupt inmates' ability to orchestrate crimes from behind bars using smuggled cell phones. Drummond and a bipartisan coalition of ... Show Full Article OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, March 27 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release: * * * Drummond asking for help in combating prison cell phone contraband OKLAHOMA CITY (March 26, 2025) - Attorney General Gentner Drummond is calling on the U.S. Congress to pass legislation that will allow Oklahoma to deploy cell phone jamming systems in prisons. Federal law currently bans the use of this technology. H.R. 2350 and S. 1137 aims to disrupt inmates' ability to orchestrate crimes from behind bars using smuggled cell phones. Drummond and a bipartisan coalition of31 attorneys general recently penned a letter to federal legislation in support of the measure.

"The proliferation of illegal cell phones in our prison systems represents a serious public safety threat to Oklahomans," Drummond said. "These devices are not just communication tools for inmates, but dangerous instruments that enable criminal activities that extend far beyond prison walls and directly impact our communities."

The coalition's letter to Congress highlights how inmates exploit contraband phones to:

* Direct drug trafficking operations;

* Orchestrate violence inside and outside prison walls;

* Run sophisticated fraud schemes preying on vulnerable citizens;

* Intimidate witnesses and terrorize victims' families; and

* Plot escape attempts endangering law enforcement and the public.

Because states are banned from using cell phone jamming technology, correctional facilities are rendered defenseless against these escalating threats. Carefully designed to avoid disrupting emergency signals like 9-1-1, H.R. 2350 and S. 1137 would grant states the authority to deploy targeted jamming systems within prisons.

Led by the attorneys general of Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the attorneys general of Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia are a part of the coalition.

Read the Letter

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Original text here: https://oklahoma.gov/oag/news/newsroom/2025/march/drummond-asking-for-help-in-combating-prison-cell-phone-contraband.html

NYPSC Approves Submetering for Affordable Housing Project in Manhattan, Waives Energy Audit

ALBANY, New York, March 27 -- The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) has authorized Housing is a Human Right LLC to submeter electricity at its new rental building located at 364 West 54th Street, New York. The order, issued on March 26, 2025, in Case 24-E-0497, also grants a waiver of the energy audit and efficiency plan requirements for this new construction project.

The building, located within Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.'s (Con Edison) service territory, will consist of 112 units, with a significant portion dedicated to formerly homeless individuals and those ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, March 27 -- The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) has authorized Housing is a Human Right LLC to submeter electricity at its new rental building located at 364 West 54th Street, New York. The order, issued on March 26, 2025, in Case 24-E-0497, also grants a waiver of the energy audit and efficiency plan requirements for this new construction project. The building, located within Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.'s (Con Edison) service territory, will consist of 112 units, with a significant portion dedicated to formerly homeless individuals and thosewith low-to-moderate incomes. Notably, 59 units will be designated as supportive housing for long-term survivors of HIV/AIDS.

The project incorporates energy-efficient appliances and building systems, including Energy Star(R) appliances, efficient lighting with sensors, and double-glazed, low-emitting glass windows. The building is also participating in the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's Multifamily New Construction program.

The PSC's decision includes a waiver of the energy audit and efficiency plan requirements under 16 NYCRR Sec.96.5(k)(3), acknowledging that the building's new construction status ensures compliance with the stringent New York State Energy Conservation Code.

The order mandates that submetered residents are afforded the same benefits and protections as direct-metered customers, including access to utility energy affordability program (EAP) bill discounts. The building owner is required to include information on how residents can self-identify for EAP eligibility in the submetering lease rider.

Additionally, the PSC encourages the building owner to inform residents about the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), particularly those experiencing financial difficulties.

Housing is a Human Right LLC must certify its acceptance of the submetering conditions and provide proof of notice to residents within 60 days. Within 12 months, the owner must certify the installation of the approved SATEC, Inc. BFM136 submeters and file a meter test plan.

The order also addresses future changes in building ownership or property management, requiring notification of submetering conditions to any new parties. The owner must also keep the "Submeterer Identification Form" updated with the commission.

This decision aims to facilitate fair electricity billing for residents in this affordable housing project while ensuring compliance with state energy efficiency and submetering regulations.

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Docket: Case No. 24-E-0497

Original text here: https://documents.dps.ny.gov/public/Common/ViewDoc.aspx?DocRefId={D094D395-0000-C716-AB0D-A33F7062E778}

Md. A.G. Brown: Consumer Alert - Marylanders Should Consider Taking Steps to Protect Highly Sensitive Personal Data Held by 23andMe

BALTIMORE, Maryland, March 27 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on March 26, 2025:

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Consumer Alert: Marylanders Should Consider Taking Steps to Protect Highly Sensitive Personal Data Held by 23andMe

BALTIMORE, MD (March 26, 2025) - Attorney General Anthony G. Brown today issued a consumer alert concerning the recent bankruptcy filing of genetic information company 23andMe. 23andMe's Chapter 11 bankruptcy has raised concerns about how consumers genetic information will be protected.

23andMe, which experienced a data breach last year that compromised ... Show Full Article

Maine PUC Orders Natural Gas Utilities to Refund Ratepayer Funds; Summit Plan Rejected

HALLOWELL, Maine, March 27 -- The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has issued an order approving refund plans from Northern Utilities (Unitil), Maine Natural Gas, and Bangor Natural Gas, directing them to return funds collected from ratepayers but unused by the Efficiency Maine Trust (Trust). However, the PUC rejected the refund plan proposed by Summit Natural Gas of Maine, demanding a revised plan that aligns with legal requirements.

In Docket No. 2024-00357, released on March 26, 2025, the PUC approved Unitil's plan to refund $1,165,602 via a uniform per-therm credit over 12 months, starting ... Show Full Article HALLOWELL, Maine, March 27 -- The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has issued an order approving refund plans from Northern Utilities (Unitil), Maine Natural Gas, and Bangor Natural Gas, directing them to return funds collected from ratepayers but unused by the Efficiency Maine Trust (Trust). However, the PUC rejected the refund plan proposed by Summit Natural Gas of Maine, demanding a revised plan that aligns with legal requirements. In Docket No. 2024-00357, released on March 26, 2025, the PUC approved Unitil's plan to refund $1,165,602 via a uniform per-therm credit over 12 months, startingNovember 1, 2025. Maine Natural Gas will refund approximately $259,000 through a six-month volumetric surcharge credit beginning May 1, 2025. Bangor Natural Gas will return $366,844 through a 12-month per-therm credit, mirroring Unitil's approach.

Summit's initial proposal to use the funds for low-income customer conversion rebates was rejected by the PUC, following objections from the Trust and the Office of the Public Advocate (OPA). The PUC found Summit's proposal inconsistent with a prior Commission order that mandated the return of funds to ratepayers and not to incentivize natural gas usage. The Trust also argued the plan violated the Efficiency Maine Trust Act, which authorizes funds for cost-effective conservation measures, not conversion rebates. Summit's later proposal to defer the funds also lacked necessary details.

The PUC's order emphasizes that the ratepayer funds, collected under 35-A M.R.S. Sec. 10111, must be returned to ratepayers as they were not used for their intended purpose within the statutory timeframe. The approved plans from Unitil, Maine Natural Gas, and Bangor Natural Gas were deemed compliant with these legal standards.

The PUC has directed Summit to file a revised refund plan within 15 days, ensuring it aligns with the legal requirements outlined in the order. Unitil and Bangor Natural Gas must also file updated rate sheets and supporting calculations in new dockets by July 1, 2025, while Maine Natural Gas will implement its plan in Docket No. 2025-00045.

The PUC's decision underscores its commitment to ensuring ratepayer funds are used appropriately and returned when necessary, maintaining transparency and fairness in utility operations.

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Docket: 2024-00357

Original text here: https://mpuc-cms.maine.gov/CQM.Public.WebUI/Common/ViewDoc.aspx?DocRefId={1024D395-0000-C418-B6D8-9B1559C2F388}&DocExt=pdf&DocName=ORDER%202024-00357%203.26.25.pdf

Ind. Utility Regulatory Commission Issues Weekly Hearing Schedule for March 31 - April 4, 2025

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, March 27 -- The Indiana Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission issued the following weekly hearing schedule:

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Monday, March 31, 2025

CAUSE NO.: 46170; ALJ: PAGONIS; TIME: 9:00 A.M.; COMMISSIONER: ZIEGNER; ROOM: PNC, Room 222

APPLICATION OF INDIANA-AMERICAN WATER COMPANY INC. ("INDIANA AMERICAN") FOR A CERTIFICATE OF TERRITORIAL AUTHORITY TO RENDER SEWAGE DISPOSAL SERVICE IN A RURAL AREA IN HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA.

(Per Docket Entry issued March 11, 2025, this hearing is continued to April 1, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. in Room 222)

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Tuesday, April 1, 2025

CAUSE NO.: ... Show Full Article

Ariz. Gov. Katie Hobbs Legislative Action Update

PHOENIX, Arizona, March 27 -- Gov. Katie Hobbs, D-Arizona, issued the following news release on March 25, 2025:

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Governor Katie Hobbs Legislative Action Update

Phoenix, AZ - Today, Governor Katie Hobbs took the following legislative action:

Signed

SB1040, recall elections; procedures; timeline

SB1078, manufacturer plates; proof of contract

SB1102, pharmacy benefits; prescribing; exemption

SB1105, medical marijuana dispensaries; location

SB1218, townsites; trustees; board of supervisors

SB1286, counties; board; administrative review; approval

SB1311, west valley charity specialty ... Show Full Article

Alaska Gov. Dunleavy Issues Statement on President Trump's Executive Order on Decreasing Education Department Authority

JUNEAU, Alaska, March 27 -- Gov. Mike Dunleavy, R-Alaska, issued the following statement on March 26, 2025, on President Trump's executive order on decreasing the power and authority of the U.S. Department of Education:

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Alaska will benefit by decreasing the power of the federal department of education

As a former educator for over 30 years, I welcome the news that President Trump has signed an EO significantly decreasing the power and authority of the US Department of Education. Since it's creation in 1980, despite spending several trillion dollars of taxpayer money, student outcomes continue ... Show Full Article JUNEAU, Alaska, March 27 -- Gov. Mike Dunleavy, R-Alaska, issued the following statement on March 26, 2025, on President Trump's executive order on decreasing the power and authority of the U.S. Department of Education: * * * Alaska will benefit by decreasing the power of the federal department of education As a former educator for over 30 years, I welcome the news that President Trump has signed an EO significantly decreasing the power and authority of the US Department of Education. Since it's creation in 1980, despite spending several trillion dollars of taxpayer money, student outcomes continueto fall, at risk students continue to be trapped in failing schools, and the reading and computing ability of American students is dismal compared to their international peers.

While the original intent of the US Department of Education was noble, forcing it to release it grip on education is necessary because it failed in its primary mission, to ensure that every child has access to a quality education. Like all large, centralized departments and programs, it pilfered tax dollars to support a large bureaucracy, which became increasingly inefficient. As it metastasized, the Department took billions of dollars out of state and local economies to create regulations and pay employees, and the financial resources that it provided to the states, was a fraction of what was taken.

The USDOE has also been captured by a political ideology that has been harmful to education in America. The United States was founded on the principals of freedom, risk taking, and hard work. Being rewarded for excellence fueled American ingenuity and economic growth. However, the Department of Education has worked every day to thwart our merit-based system, by rewriting history and promoting DEI in primary, secondary, and post-secondary schools.

The Department has also become a tool of the education establishment. While education associations, such as the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) claim to support the education of America's youth, they do not. Instead, they use dues taken from hard-working educators to lobby for education policy that directly undermines the values of our country and promotes harmful political ideologies that do not reflect the values of families in our country.

The inability of a large bureaucracy to improve educational outcomes should have been predicable when the department was established. Parents are the best judge of what their children need to thrive and learn. Families working with local educators, within local districts, and with state oversight know how best to prepare students for success as adults. One-sized-fits-all, top-down education policy created in Washington DC thousands of miles away from Alaska, never had a chance to provide the flexibility to meet the unique needs of children in my state or any other.

Rigid federal regulations and overly complex funding rules stifle innovation, making it difficult for states like Alaska to address critical challenges such as rural education, workforce development, and achievement gaps. The Trump Administration's plans for the department will give states greater flexibility in using federal funds. For example, a block grant approach will empower states to invest in workforce readiness programs, technology integration, and targeted literacy interventions that align with their unique priorities.

Innovation thrives when states have the freedom to experiment. Instead of filtering decision-making through the Department of Education, Congress should shift authority directly to state governments, allowing them to lead in funding allocation, curriculum development, and school accountability. The federal government should step back from unnecessary oversight and instead serve as a limited partner, ensuring compliance with broad national goals while deferring to state-driven solutions.

Critics of the EO argue that it will increase disparity and discrimination, but this action by President Trump does not change national education laws. Federal statutes related to special education and disabled students, and civil rights are still on the books. Both the federal government and states have the legal and moral obligation to ensure, and will, that all students have access to educational opportunities that enable them to be productive citizens of the United States.

As the governor of Alaska, I celebrate President Trump's EO to free states from the stranglehold of the US Department of Education. Education is most effective when tailored to local needs, not dictated by Washington. By prioritizing state leadership and removing federal roadblocks, we can better utilize federal education dollars and unlock the full potential of America's schools to ensure that every student receives a high-quality education.

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Original text here: https://gov.alaska.gov/alaska-will-benefit-by-decreasing-the-power-of-the-federal-department-of-education/

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