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Minn. Gov. Walz Appoints Nathan Sosinski, Stacy St George, and Kathryn Fodness to Fill Tenth Judicial District Vacancies
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, May 23 -- Gov. Tim Walz, D-Minnesota, issued the following news release on May 22, 2026:
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Governor Walz Appoints Nathan Sosinski, Stacy St George, and Kathryn Fodness to Fill Tenth Judicial District Vacancies
Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Nathan Sosinski, Stacy St George, and Kathryn Fodness as District Court Judges in Minnesota's Tenth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Buffalo in Wright County, Elk River in Sherburne County, and Center City in Chisago County.
Nathan Sosinski will be replacing the Honorable Suzanne Bollman for
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ST. PAUL, Minnesota, May 23 -- Gov. Tim Walz, D-Minnesota, issued the following news release on May 22, 2026:
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Governor Walz Appoints Nathan Sosinski, Stacy St George, and Kathryn Fodness to Fill Tenth Judicial District Vacancies
Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Nathan Sosinski, Stacy St George, and Kathryn Fodness as District Court Judges in Minnesota's Tenth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Buffalo in Wright County, Elk River in Sherburne County, and Center City in Chisago County.
Nathan Sosinski will be replacing the Honorable Suzanne Bollman forthe seat chambered in Wright County.
"It is my honor to appoint Nathan Sosinski to the Wright County bench," said Governor Walz. "A longtime public defender and seasoned trial attorney, he is ready to hit the ground running. His experience advocating for clients from all walks of life gives him a deep understanding of the challenges individuals and families face in the justice system."
Stacy St George will be replacing the Honorable Walter M. Kaminsky for the seat chambered in Sherburne County.
"Stacy St George is an excellent fit for Sherburne County," said Governor Walz. "She brings deep expertise at the intersection of mental health and the justice system and helped spearhead the creation of an innovative Rule 20.01 Competency Court. I look forward to her bringing that thoughtful, problem-solving approach to the bench."
Kathryn Fodness will be replacing the Honorable Douglas B. Meslow for the seat chambered in Chisago County.
"It is also my great pleasure to appoint Kathryn Fodness to the Chisago County bench," said Governor Walz. "Her career is defined by leadership, high-stakes litigation, and service to state and local governments. She brings a clear, steady approach under pressure while never losing sight of the people she serves, and I am confident she will be an outstanding judge."
Minnesota's Tenth Judicial District encompasses Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Pine, Sherburne, Washington, and Wright counties.
About Nathan Sosinski:
Nathan Sosinski is the managing attorney at the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender's Office in Washington County, where he represents clients in felony criminal cases. He was previously the managing attorney at the public defender's office in Pine, Isanti, Chisago, and Kanabec counties and an assistant county attorney in Pine County. Sosinski's community involvement includes serving as an instructor at the Minnesota Public Defender's Office Trial School and as a member of the Washington County Community Corrections Advisory Board. He previously served as a member of the Criminal Sexual Conduct Statutory Reform Working Group, a board member for the Centennial Lakes Little League, a coach for middle school girls' basketball and softball teams, and a judge for collegiate and high school mock trial. He earned his B.A. from the University of Northern Iowa and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.
About Stacy St George:
Stacy St George is an assistant chief of the Criminal Division at the Dakota County Attorney's Office, where she has worked extensively in criminal prosecution with a focus on violent crimes. Through her role, she assisted in the development of the first Rule 20.01 Competency Court in the First Judicial District, which prioritizes treatment and support for individuals living with mental illness in the criminal justice system. St George previously served as the assistant head of the Criminal Division in the Anoka County Attorney's Office and as an assistant county attorney in Isanti County. Her community involvement includes serving on the policy committee of the Minnesota Children's Alliance and as a board member for the Forest Lake Athletic Association. She earned her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.
About Kathryn Fodness:
Kathryn Fodness is an assistant city attorney with the Minneapolis City Attorney's Office, where her practice focuses on labor and employment law, including litigation and the creation and implementation of policies related to police reform. She previously served as general counsel for Minnesota Management and Budget, where she acted as the agency's chief legal officer, the executive branch's chief labor and employment law counsel, and the state ethics officer. Fodness also worked as an assistant attorney general at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General and a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Regina M. Chu in Minnesota's Fourth Judicial District. Her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer mock mediator in skills courses at the University of Minnesota Law School and as a mentor for law students interested in public practice. She earned her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.
For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the Governor's Judicial Appointments webpage (https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019e512bd217-ab94a31a-d2cf-4155-a45e-bfd0b32bb616-000000/BYsyHzjgxXpOzVuImsEPkt3cAdND39rh792u_MkAbkw=452).
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Original text here: https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/750448
WHAT VIRGINIANS ARE SEEING: A.G. JONES SHARES WEEKLY ROUNDUP OF ACTIONS TAKEN
RICHMOND, Virginia, May 23 -- Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones issued the following news release on May 22, 2026:
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WHAT VIRGINIANS ARE SEEING: ATTORNEY GENERAL JAY JONES SHARES WEEKLY ROUNDUP OF ACTIONS TAKEN
OAG brings justice in 40-year-old cold case, fights federal overreach, and honors the anniversary of Brown v. Board decision
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Attorney General Jay Jones continued taking action to bring justice for crime victims, fight federal overreach, and honor the anniversary of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision.
The Virginia Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Helps Bring
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RICHMOND, Virginia, May 23 -- Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones issued the following news release on May 22, 2026:
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WHAT VIRGINIANS ARE SEEING: ATTORNEY GENERAL JAY JONES SHARES WEEKLY ROUNDUP OF ACTIONS TAKEN
OAG brings justice in 40-year-old cold case, fights federal overreach, and honors the anniversary of Brown v. Board decision
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Attorney General Jay Jones continued taking action to bring justice for crime victims, fight federal overreach, and honor the anniversary of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision.
The Virginia Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Helps BringJustice in 1986 Virginia Beach Cold Case
The Virginia Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, which is led by the Office of the Attorney General in partnership with the Virginia State Police, was a vital force in the arrest of a suspect in a decades-old cold case. This breakthrough in the case is due to the collaboration and determination of state and local agencies.
Virginia Beach Police Department Makes Arrest in 40-Year-Old Cold Case
On May 18, 2026, officers arrested 66-year-old Charles Berry for the rape and murder of 22-year-old Roberta Walls on May 15, 1986. This landmark arrest is a coordinated effort of the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD), the Virginia State Police, the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia, the Virginia Beach Office of the Commonwealth Attorney, and the Newington Police Department in Connecticut.
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The case gained momentum with the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) provided by the Virginia Office of the Attorney General. Through persistent investigation and breakthroughs in forensic technology, detectives were able to link Berry's DNA to evidence found at the crime scene.
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"The Virginia Sexual Assault Kit Initiative has helped bring closure to a decades-long investigation, proving to be a crucial tool in the fight for justice. I'm proud of the dedication and close collaboration between the Virginia State Police, Virginia Beach Police, and SAKI that brought this cold case to a just resolution," said Attorney General Jay Jones. "My office will continue to provide every resource available to law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth and work to support sexual assault victims, always."
ABC News: Man arrested in young woman's 1986 cold case rape, murder in Virginia Beach
Four decades after a young woman was raped and murdered, a man has been linked to the crime through DNA and is under arrest, according to Virginia Beach, Virginia, police.
"It's incredibly scary for the community to think that someone who would rape and brutally murder someone 40 years ago was out in society," Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate said at a news conference on Wednesday.
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"This breakthrough stands as a powerful testament to the relentless persistence of our detectives, who refused to let Roberta be forgotten," the Virginia Beach Police Department said in a statement. "We hope this closure brings a measure of peace to the Walls family and sends a clear message: no matter how much time passes, we will never stop searching for the truth."
People: Suspect Arrested 40 Years After 22-Year-Old Woman Was Found Raped and Murdered Near Library Where She Worked
In 2017, detectives used DNA samples preserved from Walls' body and the area in which she was found to create an image of a person of interest, according to The Virginian-Pilot.
The analysis helped create a snapshot of what the suspect looked like more than 30 years after the incident and ruled out the case's "cast of characters," the outlet reported.
WTKR: Arrest made in Virginia Beach 1986 murder cold case
Persistent investigative work and advancement in technology were key to solving the case, Virginia Beach police said.
Police said that in 2001, investigators developed a male DNA profile from evidence collected in the case, but no matches were found at the time.
In 2023, the Virginia Beach Police Department received grant funding that allowed investigators to pursue forensic genealogy leads. Through that process, investigators identified 66-year-old Charles Berry as the suspect.
13NewsNow: 40 years after murder, Virginia Beach police announce arrest in cold case
The breakthrough came after investigators received funding through a 2023 Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, commonly known as SAKI, which allowed authorities to revisit evidence using modern genetic genealogy techniques.
Police said the renewed investigation led detectives to Berry, who was living in Connecticut. Investigators later obtained a DNA sample through a search warrant, which police said directly matched evidence collected in the case decades ago.
Wilkerson credited detectives from the original investigation for carefully preserving evidence long before today's technology existed.
"The tenacity and due diligence of the detectives 40 years ago -- not knowing what we could do today -- they preserved all the evidence," Wilkerson said. "They were meticulous in the recovery."
Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate said the arrest highlights how evolving forensic technology can help solve long-standing cold cases and provide closure for victims' families.
The Virginian-Pilot: Police arrest suspect in 1986 rape, homicide cold case in Virginia Beach
Charles Randall Berry, the 66-year-old suspect, was arrested Monday in Newington, Connecticut. Virginia Beach police said advancements in technology combined with investigative work helped detectives solve the case.
WAVY: VBPD: Arrest in 40-year-old cold case 'incredibly significant'
Virginia Beach Police announced a significant breakthrough in a four-decade-old cold case, apprehending a suspect in connection with the 1986 killing of 22-year-old Roberta Walls.
As WAVY first reported on Tuesday, Charles Barry, 66, was arrested in Connecticut a few days ago, with modern forensic DNA technology playing a crucial role in solving the long-unresolved case.
FOX61: Connecticut man wanted for 1986 Virginia murder arrested by Newington police
Police also highlighted the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative provided by the Virginia Office of the Attorney General.
"The Virginia Sexual Assault Kit Initiative has helped bring closure to a decades-long investigation, proving to be a crucial tool in the fight for justice. I'm proud of the dedication and close collaboration between the Virginia State Police, Virginia Beach Police, and SAKI that brought this cold case to a just resolution," said Attorney General Jay Jones. "My office will continue to provide every resource available to law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth and work to support sexual assault victims, always."
NBC Connecticut: Newington man charged as fugitive in connection to 1986 homicide in Virginia Beach
According to police in Virginia Beach, Barry has been indicted by a grand jury in connection with the death of Roberta Walls.
A release from Virginia police explained that the arrest was the result of a coordinated effort among the Virginia Beach Police Department, the Virginia State Police, the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia, and the Newington Police Department.
Protecting the Health and Safety of Virginians
The Commonwealth joined a coalition of states opposing an Environmental Protection Agency proposal that would gut national emission standards for a substance that is proven to cause cancer. This proposal puts the health of Virginians and our air in harm's way.
After search warrants in Bristol, Virginia recovered more than $1 million in cannabis in a raid, the Office of the Attorney General is reviewing for possible applicable civil enforcement actions.
Attorney General Jay Jones Joins Coalition Opposing EPA's Proposal to Gut National Limits on Ethylene Oxide Pollution
Attorney General Jay Jones today joined a coalition of attorneys general opposing a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposal to repeal national emission standards for ethylene oxide (EtO) used by commercial sterilization facilities. According to the EPA's own assessment, EtO is a known human carcinogen and among the most toxic pollutants regulated under the Clean Air Act.
"The Commonwealth takes pride in being home to a diverse landscape and Virginians are united in our urgency to protect our air, land, and sea. This proposal puts the health of the people and our air in harm's way," said Attorney General Jay Jones. "Virginians will not turn a blind eye as the Trump administration continues to ignore science and endanger the health of our communities. We urge the Trump administration and the EPA to keep this critical standard in place."
WRIC: Attorney General Jay Jones joins coalition to fight EPA's repeal of ethylene oxide standards
Attorney General Jay Jones (D) has joined a coalition of state attorneys general in opposing U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) rollback on toxic pollution standards.
Jones' office announced on Tuesday, May 19, that he joined a coalition of attorneys general opposing EPA's proposal to repeal national emission standards for toxic ethylene oxide (EtO) pollution.
In the release, Jones's office called EtO among the "most toxic pollutants regulated under the Clean Air Act."
Virginia State Police Facebook Post
Multiple search warrants executed this month by Virginia State Police (VSP) and the Holston River Regional Drug Task Force (HRRDTF) in the City of Bristol resulted in the recovery more than 300 pounds of marijuana with a street value of more than $1 million.
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The Office of the Attorney General is reviewing the investigation for any possible applicable civil enforcement actions.
WCYB: More than 300 pounds of marijuana worth $1M seized in Bristol, Virginia State Police says
More than 300 pounds of marijuana worth more than $1 million were seized this month in Bristol, according to the Virginia State Police.
Multiple search warrants were executed this month by VSP and the Holston River Regional Drug Task Force in at various areas across the city between May 1 and May 13.
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The Office of the Attorney General is reviewing the investigation for any possible applicable civil enforcement actions.
WJHL: Bristol, Va. police chief details what led to seizures at cannabis stores
According to Ashbrook, some of the products at the store were also illegally labeled.
"Some of the items we seized, specifically at Space Apes, that were labeled as SweeTARTS," he said. "They had the appearance of Nerds or Nerds Ropes or something of that nature, and other things. If that was to be taken home, and a kid was to see that, they could just tear it open and start eating it, so that's not something that's legal."
Ashbrook said criminal charges or indictments are pending, and the investigation is still ongoing. The Bristol, Virginia Police Department (BVPD) is working with the Virginia Attorney General's Office in reference to civil fines and penalties, which Ashbrook said "could be very, very high."
Fighting for Education Opportunities for Virginians
Virginia joined a coalition of states in filing a lawsuit against the Department of Education over a new rule that unlawfully limits access to federal student loans for students pursuing professional degree programs, including many healthcare and other critical workforce fields. The rule could harm states by reducing support for public institutions of higher education, creating barriers for students pursuing advanced training, and worsening workforce shortages in critical professions.
Attorney General Jay Jones Sues U.S. Department of Education Over Student Loan Rule Limiting Access to Student Loans for Professional Degree Programs
Attorney General Jay Jones today joined a coalition of attorneys general in filing a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education over a new rule that unlawfully limits access to federal student loans for students pursuing professional degree programs, including many healthcare and other critical workforce fields.
"Cutting off access to federal student loans cuts off access to career opportunities for Virginians. This unlawful rule will worsen the workforce crisis and further strain the healthcare field," said Attorney General Jay Jones. "The Trump administration is once again skirting the system of checks and balances, and my office is committed to standing up for student borrowers in the Commonwealth."
WRIC: 'Unlawful' Jay Jones joins multistate lawsuit over Trump's new student loan rule for professional degrees
Attorney General Jay Jones (D) called a new rule from President Donald Trump's administration limiting access to student loans "unlawful," as Virginia joined a multistate lawsuit against the Department of Education (DOE) challenging the policy.
On Wednesday, May 20, Jones' office announced that the state joined dozens of other attorneys general in filing a lawsuit against the DOE over a new student loan rule, which narrows the federal definition of "professional degree," per a release.
WSET and WJLA: Virginia AG sues Education Dept. over student loan caps; Feds say it prevents crazy debt
Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones is suing the U.S. Department of Education over a new rule he claims unlawfully limits access to federal student loans for students pursuing certain professional degree programs.
Jones joined a coalition of dozens of other attorneys general in filing the lawsuit, including Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown.
They argue the Department of Education narrowed the federal definition of a "professional degree" in a way that excludes certain degree programs and that it would significantly impact those in critical workforce fields such as healthcare.
Honoring the 72nd Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education Decision
On Friday May 15, Attorney General Jay Jones hosted a program to commemorate the anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision, the landmark Supreme Court ruling that reshaped the course of American education by denying the premise that separate education for white and Black students was equal. Attorney General Jones welcomed guests from across the Commonwealth including community partners, elected officials, and staff.
Attorney General Jay Jones Hosts 'From Legacy to Law' Event Recognizing Landmark Brown v. Board of Education Decision
"This history is personal to me. As a child, my father, Judge Jerrauld Jones, helped integrate Ingleside Elementary School in Norfolk, Virginia. History arrived before he was old enough to fully understand its weight, and in the face of that responsibility he showed tremendous courage," said Attorney General Jay Jones. "The Commonwealth was central to this moment, as young Virginians put their education, safety, and lives on the line to push our nation closer towards the promise it was always meant to fulfill. Progress is possible when people have the courage to demand better from their institutions and from one another."
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"We continue to see challenges around voting rights and access to basic human rights. These are not new debates. They are part of the same ongoing struggle over whether this nation will fully honor the humanity of all its people," said Solicitor General Tillman Breckenridge. "Progress requires protection. Equal rights on paper mean nothing without equal access to justice, education, and political participation. The legacy of Brown reminds us that democracy requires vigilance, courage, and a willingness to keep pushing. We can't just remember history, we must continue to define it."
WTVR: Virginia attorney general honors 72nd anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education
Attorney General Jay Jones hosted the "From Legacy to Law" program Friday to commemorate the anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, honoring one of the most important events in 20th century American history.
The landmark 1954 Supreme Court ruling reshaped the course of American education, finding that segregated schools violated the 14th Amendment and paving the way for integration.
"Today we honor the courage of those students and families and advocates who refused to accept that inequality was inevitable," Jones said. "Because of their courage, doors that have long been closed were finally opened for countless families across Virginia and across the United States of America."
While complete desegregation took years in the Commonwealth, it finally fully happened in Virginia schools in the early 1970s.
Social Media:
Office of the Attorney General Instagram Post
Office of the Attorney General Facebook Post
Office of the Attorney General X Post
Virginia Legislative Black Caucus Facebook Post
Delegate Virgil Thornton Sr. Facebook Post
Delegate Lindsey Dougherty, VA Dist. 75 Facebook Post
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Original text here: https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/3029-what-virginians-are-seeing-attorney-general-jay-jones-shares-weekly-roundup-of-actions-taken-6
S.C. DOT Requests Public Comment on the 2024-2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program to Include the 2027 Pavement Improvement Program
COLUMBIA, South Carolina, May 23 -- The South Carolina Department of Transportation issued the following news:
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SCDOT Requests Public Comment on the 2024-2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) to Include the 2027 Pavement Improvement Program
The South Carolina Department of Transportation seeks public comment on the addition of the 2027 Pavement Improvement Program to the 2024-2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). SCDOT will receive public comment for a 21-day period from May 22 to June 11, 2026.
View an online map at this link: 2027 Pavement Improvement
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COLUMBIA, South Carolina, May 23 -- The South Carolina Department of Transportation issued the following news:
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SCDOT Requests Public Comment on the 2024-2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) to Include the 2027 Pavement Improvement Program
The South Carolina Department of Transportation seeks public comment on the addition of the 2027 Pavement Improvement Program to the 2024-2033 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). SCDOT will receive public comment for a 21-day period from May 22 to June 11, 2026.
View an online map at this link: 2027 Pavement ImprovementProgram.
The 2027 Pavement Improvement Program includes additional 734 miles of proposed paving work, including 48 miles of preventive maintenance projects, along non-interstate road systems. Road systems included in the program are major roads/primary routes, farm-to-market secondary roads, and neighborhood streets. View a list of selected roads in the May 21, 2026 Commission Agenda Package starting on the page labeled p. 73.
These miles will be added to the previously approved 8,505 miles of paving projects advanced since the implementation of Act 40 of 2017. The paving projects will be incorporated into the "New Gas Tax Trust Fund" transparency and accountability reports. More information is available on our website.
In accordance with Act 114 of 2007, these projects were selected for funding using ranking processes that are based on objective and quantifiable factors. The projects also comply with the Ten-Year Plan and support the performance targets established in the Transportation Asset Management Plan (TAMP). In order to ensure that every county is guaranteed paving funds, funds are is allocated to counties based on a county's relative share of lane miles for each road system.
Submit a Comment
Comments will be accepted through June 11, 2026 and should be submitted to Ginny Jones, Public Involvement Director, SCDOT Public Engagement Office, 955 Park Street, P.O. Box 191, Columbia, SC 29201. Comments may also be submitted online or by email to SCDOTpubliccomment@scdot.org.
Visit scdot.org/projects/public-comment-notices to view all STIP Comment Notices and submit comments online.
To assist those who do not have internet access, a printed copy of this press release and any supporting information is available for public review and comment at any of the South Carolina Department of Transportation District Offices and the South Carolina Council of Government Offices. Please note, any information provided, including names and addresses, is subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.
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Original text here: https://www.scdot.org/inside/SCDOTPress/scdot-requests-public-comment-on-the-2024-2033-statewide-transpo6.html
Pa. Labor Dept.: Pennsylvania Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 4.2 Percent in April, Remains Below National Average
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 23 (TNSxrep) -- The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry issued the following news on May 22, 2026:
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Pennsylvania Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 4.2 Percent in April, Remains Below National Average
Total nonfarm jobs were up to a record high level of nearly 6.2 million in April.
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The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) today released its preliminary employment situation report for April 2026.
Pennsylvania's unemployment rate was unchanged over the month at 4.2 percent in April. The PA rate was one-tenth of a percentage point below
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 23 (TNSxrep) -- The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry issued the following news on May 22, 2026:
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Pennsylvania Unemployment Rate Holds Steady at 4.2 Percent in April, Remains Below National Average
Total nonfarm jobs were up to a record high level of nearly 6.2 million in April.
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The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) today released its preliminary employment situation report for April 2026.
Pennsylvania's unemployment rate was unchanged over the month at 4.2 percent in April. The PA rate was one-tenth of a percentage point belowthe U.S. unemployment rate, which was also unchanged over the month at 4.3 percent.
The Commonwealth's unemployment rate matched its April 2025 level of 4.2 percent, while the U.S. rate was up one-tenth from last April.
Pennsylvania's civilian labor force -- the estimated number of residents working or looking for work -- was up 14,000 over the month to 6,607,000 in April. Employment accounted for the gain while unemployment was unchanged over the month.
Pennsylvania's total nonfarm jobs were up 10,700 over the month to a record high of 6,198,800 in April. Jobs increased in seven of the 11 industry supersectors. The largest volume gain was in professional & business services, up 4,500 over the month, while the largest decline was in leisure & hospitality (-2,200). Education & health services rose to a record high level. Over the year, jobs were up 31,900 with gains in seven of the 11 supersectors. The largest volume gain from last April was in education & health services (+32,000).
Additional information is available on the L&I website at www.dli.pa.gov.
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Table: Current Labor Force Statistics
Table: Pennsylvania Nonagricultural Wage and Salary Employment
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dli/newsroom/pennsylvania-unemployment-rate-holds-steady-at-4-2-percent-in-ap
Pa. Education Dept.: Shapiro Administration Announces Grants to 26 Schools Preparing High School Students for Careers as Special Education Teachers
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 23 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Education issued the following news on May 22, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Announces Grants to 26 Schools Preparing High School Students for Careers as Special Education Teachers
Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, the Pennsylvania Department of Education is making strategic investments to strengthen Pennsylvania's educator workforce and make sure there's a highly qualified teacher in every classroom - especially Special Education classrooms.
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Today, Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Secretary Dr. Carrie Rowe
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, May 23 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Education issued the following news on May 22, 2026:
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Shapiro Administration Announces Grants to 26 Schools Preparing High School Students for Careers as Special Education Teachers
Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, the Pennsylvania Department of Education is making strategic investments to strengthen Pennsylvania's educator workforce and make sure there's a highly qualified teacher in every classroom - especially Special Education classrooms.
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Today, Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Secretary Dr. Carrie Roweannounced the Shapiro Administration's latest investment in programs that strengthen Pennsylvania's pipeline of highly qualified teachers. With more than $510,000 in grants to 26 schools, the Developing Future Special Educators program will give more than 800 Pennsylvania high school students early exposure to a career as a Special Education teacher and opportunities to earn college credits before graduating from high school.
"After high school, every one of us must make a decision about what to do next. Those decisions don't have to be permanent, but they do affect the trajectory of our lives. Career education programs help students make informed decisions about the next step - whether that's college, a job, the military, or an apprenticeship," said Secretary Rowe. "For students who see themselves leading their own classroom one day, the Developing Future Special Educators program helps them take that step with confidence."
The Shapiro Administration awarded more than $1.4 million to 77 school entities in 2024, bringing Pennsylvania's total investment in the Developing Future Special Educators grant program to more than $1.9 million under Governor Josh Shapiro's leadership.
"Claysburg-Kimmel School District's participation in the Developing Future Special Educators grant has built a strong, data-informed pipeline of future special education professionals. Through a structured, hands-on model, students have engaged in meaningful experiences such as classroom observations, community-based learning, guest speakers, and college visits--demonstrating sustained interest and growth over time," said Dr. Brian Helsel, Superintendent of the Claysburg-Kimmel School District, a two-time grant recipient. "An additional grant cycle will allow the district to grow this work by reaching more students, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to build a sustainable, local pipeline of future special educators--an essential effort in addressing workforce needs in a rural community."
At the Baldwin-Whitehall School District, grant funding from the Shapiro Administration supported the development of the Ignite Pathway in partnership with Robert Morris University and Seton Hill University to create college-in-the-high school opportunities. Courses such as Introduction to Special Education and Child Development give students early, authentic exposure to the field while helping them see clear and attainable postsecondary pathways. The grant also supported the expansion of the Hands in Harmony project, which includes American Sign Language (ASL) world language courses, the ASL Club, and additional community-based classes and events. ASL is now recognized as an official world language at Baldwin High School, with course offerings spanning levels 1-3.
"Together, these efforts have increased student enrollment in education-related coursework, expanded access to inclusive programming, and strengthened awareness of careers in special education and related fields," said Marissa Gallagher, Director of Student Services at the Baldwin-Whitehall School District.
In this second round of funding, many of the grantees are planning to significantly increase dual-credit opportunities and expand college-in-the-high-school programs, with some schools providing up to 24 college credits.
Grants of up to $20,000 have been awarded to the following schools:
* Abington Heights School District in Lackawanna County
* Baldwin-Whitehall School District in Allegheny County
* Bethel Park School District in Allegheny County
* Big Beaver Falls Area School District in Beaver County
* Claysburg-Kimmel School District in Blair and Bedford counties
* Collegium Charter School in Chester County
* Elizabethtown Area School District in Lancaster County
* Fleetwood Area School District in Berks County
* Gateway School District in Allegheny County
* Greenville Area School District in Mercer County
* Hampton Township School District in Allegheny County
* Huntingdon Area School District in Huntingdon County
* Lackawanna Trail School District in Wyoming and Lackawanna counties
* North Penn School District in Montgomery County
* North Schuylkill Area School District in Schuylkill County
* Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School in Philadelphia County
* Pocono Mountain School District in Monroe County
* River Valley School District in Indiana County
* Riverside Beaver County School District in Beaver County
* Selinsgrove Area School District in Snyder County
* Shikellamy School District in Northumberland County
* Slippery Rock Area School District in Butler County
* The Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in Allegheny County
* Weatherly School District in Carbon County
* West Allegheny School District in Allegheny County
* Wilmington Area School District in Lawrence County
In the Pocono Mountain School District, the Developing Future Special Educators program has shown steady growth, with 93 students participating in 2025-26 and many graduating with plans to pursue careers in education.
"This success is driven by hands-on, experience-based learning opportunities, including classroom observations, peer support activities, and student-led initiatives that allow participants to build real-world skills and meaningful connections with students with disabilities. By embedding these experiences into existing school structures and strengthening partnerships with organizations such as Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 and East Stroudsburg University, the program is well-positioned for continued growth. These efforts are not only sustaining the initiative beyond the grant, but also expanding its impact on students, staff, and the broader community," said Dr. Marsha Lynn Kloss, a Special Education Supervisor with the Pocono Mountain School District.
Governor Josh Shapiro believes that growing Pennsylvania's economy and creating opportunity for future generations starts in the classroom. Over the past three years, his Administration has made strategically targeted investments to strengthen Pennsylvania's educator workforce and make sure there's a highly qualified teacher in every classroom - especially Special Education classrooms, where the Commonwealth is experiencing the greatest number of teacher vacancies.
In March, PDE announced nearly $1 million in grants to 11 institutions of higher education to provide an accelerated pathway to certification for Special Education teachers in training, Created under the Shapiro Administration and first announced in 2023, the Accelerated Program for PK-12 Special Education Teacher Certification expedites the certification process for prospective special educators who are currently working on emergency permits, experience-based certificates, or serving as paraeducators in Pennsylvania schools. Since 2023, the Shapiro Administration has invested $3.5 million in three rounds of grants to colleges and universities for programs to expedite training and certification for Special Education teachers and ensure that all Pennsylvania students -- including students with disabilities -- have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed.
Earlier this year, PDE also announced Paraeducator Advancement Grants of up to $100,000 to 12 intermediate units to help current paraeducators earn bachelor's degrees and PK-12 Special Education teacher certification at no cost while continuing to serve in Pennsylvania schools. About 150 program participants will earn their credentials by the end of 2028.
To tackle Pennsylvania's teacher shortage, the Shapiro Administration has also:
* Reduced teacher certification processing times by more than 10 weeks
* Made experience-based certificates free to aspiring educators: Experience-based certificates are an alternative to emergency permits and provide new teachers with both mentorship and a pathway to a highly valuable permanent teaching credential.
* Created a new Career and Technical Education (CTE) program in Education for high school students: The new Career and Technical Education (CTE) program in Education for high school students has also shown promise in helping students earn industry recognized credentials prior to graduating high school. Since launching two years ago, 37 public schools representing 23 counties have received PDE approval to offer the CTE program in Education.
* Created and expanded the Student Teacher Support Program to provide a stipend to student teachers: The Student Teacher Support Program - administered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency - provides stipends to eligible student teachers in Pennsylvania to ensure student teachers are compensated for their hard work. Student teaching is a fulltime job - one that typically keeps student teachers from working another paid job - and the stipend program lowers a barrier to entry into teaching for students who would otherwise struggle to afford to student teach. Last year, student teacher stipends supported more than 2,000 student teachers in Pennsylvania. To build on this progress, Governor Shapiro's 2026-27 budget proposal increases funding for student teacher stipends by $5 million, bringing total support to $35 million annually.
* Made it easier for Pennsylvanians to find jobs in education: In 2025, PDE launched the newly refreshed Teach in PA website to help individuals interested in obtaining a career in education more easily find relevant job opportunities.
* Launched a first-of-its-kind teacher apprenticeship program partnership: Through a partnership between the departments of Education and Labor & Industry (L&I), the Shapiro Administration announced a $7.76 million investment in grants to 16 organizations throughout Pennsylvania to start their own earn-as-you-learn teacher apprenticeship programs.
For more information on the Pennsylvania Department of Education, please visit the Department's website (https://www.pa.gov/agencies/education).
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/education/newsroom/shapiro-administration-announces-grants-to-26-schools
Okla. A.G. Drummond Blasts Stitt for Weaponizing Audits
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, May 23 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on May 22, 2026:
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Drummond blasts Stitt for weaponizing audits
Attorney General Gentner Drummond today welcomed Gov. Stitt's call for an audit, saying the governor has a well-established habit of siccing auditors on anyone who refuses to bow to him.
"It comes as no surprise that Gov. Stitt has called for an audit of my office. He has a well-established pattern of targeting those who hold him accountable. I welcome it.
"Before Oklahomans accept the premise of this audit request
... Show Full Article
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, May 23 -- Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued the following news release on May 22, 2026:
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Drummond blasts Stitt for weaponizing audits
Attorney General Gentner Drummond today welcomed Gov. Stitt's call for an audit, saying the governor has a well-established habit of siccing auditors on anyone who refuses to bow to him.
"It comes as no surprise that Gov. Stitt has called for an audit of my office. He has a well-established pattern of targeting those who hold him accountable. I welcome it.
"Before Oklahomans accept the premise of this audit requestat face value, they should understand what our budget actually is. Nearly 64 cents of every dollar that flows through the Attorney General's Office is not an operating expense - it is pass-through funding that goes directly back to Oklahomans. That includes restitution to independent pharmacies recovered through pharmacy benefit manager enforcement, opioid settlement funds distributed to communities devastated by the addiction crisis, grants to county sheriffs, and other funds that exist solely to put money in the right hands.
"Over the last three years, the State Legislature has repeatedly seen fit to expand the responsibilities and budget of my office. That's not an accident. They allocated additional authority over pharmacy benefit management enforcement and compliance and charged us with combating human trafficking. Why? Because this office gets results, and because someone has to clean up the messes left behind.
"In 2023, I stood up the Organized Crime Task Force specifically to address the illegal marijuana crisis -- a crisis that took root and flourished under the governor's watch. Since then, we have shut down more than 7,000 illegal operations across this state.
"The Legislature has responded to our performance by giving us more resources. The governor has responded by calling for an audit. Oklahomans can draw their own conclusions about what that says.
"My office has nothing to hide."
Of the Attorney General's $180 million budget, more than $115 million is pass-through funding for restitution and grants returned directly to Oklahomans.
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Original text here: https://oklahoma.gov/oag/news/newsroom/2026/may/drummond-blasts-stitt-for-weaponizing-audits.html
N.C. Commerce Dept.: North Carolina's April Employment Figures Released
RALEIGH, North Carolina, May 23 -- The North Carolina Department of Commerce issued the following news release:
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North Carolina's April Employment Figures Released
The state's seasonally adjusted April 2026 unemployment rate was 3.7 percent, remaining unchanged from March's revised rate. The national rate was unchanged at 4.3 percent.
North Carolina's unemployment rate decreased 0.1 of a percentage point from a year ago. The number of people employed decreased 9,660 over the month to 5,097,931 and increased 9,126 over the year. The number of people unemployed decreased 482 over the month
... Show Full Article
RALEIGH, North Carolina, May 23 -- The North Carolina Department of Commerce issued the following news release:
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North Carolina's April Employment Figures Released
The state's seasonally adjusted April 2026 unemployment rate was 3.7 percent, remaining unchanged from March's revised rate. The national rate was unchanged at 4.3 percent.
North Carolina's unemployment rate decreased 0.1 of a percentage point from a year ago. The number of people employed decreased 9,660 over the month to 5,097,931 and increased 9,126 over the year. The number of people unemployed decreased 482 over the monthto 196,615 and decreased 4,535 over the year.
Seasonally adjusted Total Nonfarm employment, as gathered through the monthly establishment survey, increased 16,000 to 5,096,100 in April. Major industries experiencing increases were Leisure & Hospitality Services, 5,700; Professional & Business Services, 3,100; Construction, 2,700; Trade, Transportation & Utilities, 1,900; Financial Activities, 900; Government, 900; Private Education & Health Services, 400; Other Services, 300; and Information, 200. The only major industry experiencing a decrease was Manufacturing, 100. Mining & Logging employment remained unchanged.
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Table: Seasonally Adjusted Unemployment Rates since April 2025
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Since April 2025, Total Nonfarm jobs increased 45,800 with the Total Private sector increasing by 41,400 and Government increasing by 4,400. Major industries experiencing increases were Private Education & Health Services, 19,300; Construction, 13,600; Leisure & Hospitality Services, 11,300; Professional & Business Services, 4,600; Government, 4,400; Financial Activities, 3,200; Trade, Transportation & Utilities, 1,700; and Other Services, 700. Major industries experiencing decreases over the year were Manufacturing, 10,600; and Information, 2,400. Mining & Logging employment remained unchanged over the year.
The next unemployment update is scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, 2026 when the county unemployment rates for April 2026 will be released.
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Original text here: https://www.commerce.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/05/22/north-carolinas-april-employment-figures-released
