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Attorney General James and Governor Hochul Improve Access to Affordable Home Internet for Vulnerable New Yorkers
ALBANY, New York, Nov. 9 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release:
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Attorney General James and Governor Hochul Improve Access to Affordable Home Internet for Vulnerable New Yorkers
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T-Mobile Will Remove Data Caps, Expand into New Areas, and Make it Easier for New Yorkers to Discover and Sign Up for Low-Priced Home Internet Service
NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an agreement with T-Mobile USA, Inc. (T-Mobile) requiring the company to improve and expand the home internet service it offers ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, Nov. 9 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release: * * * Attorney General James and Governor Hochul Improve Access to Affordable Home Internet for Vulnerable New Yorkers * T-Mobile Will Remove Data Caps, Expand into New Areas, and Make it Easier for New Yorkers to Discover and Sign Up for Low-Priced Home Internet Service NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an agreement with T-Mobile USA, Inc. (T-Mobile) requiring the company to improve and expand the home internet service it offerseligible New Yorkers under the New York Affordable Broadband Act (ABA). An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found T-Mobile's offerings did not meet the ABA's requirements, which mandate that home internet providers offer high-speed broadband to income-eligible households for $15 per month at speeds of at least 25 Megabits per second (Mbps), or $20 per month for speeds of at least 200 Mbps. The ABA also requires providers to make reasonable efforts to promote and advertise the availability of these affordable broadband plans. As a result of OAG's investigation, T-Mobile will end data caps that slowed the internet speeds of customers on ABA internet plans, offer ABA plans to more areas throughout the state, and make it easier for eligible New Yorkers to find and sign up for affordable internet plans.
"Reliable and affordable internet service is a basic need for all New Yorkers, but T-Mobile flouted the law designed to help vulnerable New Yorkers access it," said Attorney General James. "My office is committed to seeing the Affordable Broadband Act realize its goal of ensuring that New Yorkers in need are not denied access to affordable home internet. I encourage all eligible New Yorkers to enroll in a low-cost home internet plan through the ABA."
"Internet is a lifeline in today's world: it's essential for work, school, accessing emergency services, and staying in touch with loved ones. No New Yorker should struggle to access reliable and affordable internet, which is why my administration has made it a priority to ensure families and businesses across the state can thrive in today's digital world," said Governor Hochul. "Together with Attorney General James, I will continue to hold companies accountable and make sure everyone has the tools they need to participate fully in our society, democracy, and economy."
"Our role in the implementation of the Affordable Broadband Act and ensuring New Yorkers have access to affordable, reliable broadband is an important part of the Public Service Commission's work," said Public Service Commission Chair Rory Christian. "We appreciate the partnership of Governor Hochul and Attorney General James in addressing these concerns and securing changes that will affirm the Affordable Broadband Act's protections for eligible New Yorkers."
"Making high-quality broadband more affordable and accessible is central to Governor Hochul's vision of a more connected New York," said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight. "The Affordable Broadband Act is an important tool in closing the digital divide, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to the opportunities and essential services that internet access makes possible. We commend Attorney General James for her work to uphold these protections and ensure that more households across the state benefit from reliable, affordable connectivity."
The New York State Public Service Commission and Department of Public Service oversee compliance with the requirements of the ABA. After identifying concerns regarding T-Mobile's compliance with the law, the Department of Public Service referred the matter to the OAG for further review.
T-Mobile offers home internet plans to New Yorkers using a technology known as fixed wireless, which uses the company's existing mobile network to provide internet access. T-Mobile offers an ABA plan to eligible New Yorkers that advertises a download speed of 25 Mbps for a monthly price of $15, but OAG's investigation revealed that customers were actually receiving significantly slower download speeds because of a monthly data cap. After an ABA customer used 50 gigabytes of data in a month, T-Mobile would reduce the customer's download speed by more than 97 percent, to 650 Kilobits per second (Kbps). A typical customer could hit the data cap after about four days of usage.
The OAG's investigation also found that T-Mobile was only offering ABA plans in areas where it had deployed 5G wireless service, even though it offered full-price internet plans that could deliver 25 Mbps download speeds in areas where it had 4G service. In addition, T-Mobile specifically coded its website to hide its ABA plan information from search engines, making it difficult for New Yorkers searching for low-priced internet to find their plans.
As a result of OAG's investigation, T-Mobile will remove the data caps associated with their ABA plans and deliver 25 Mbps download speeds to all ABA plan subscribers, unless network congestion requires temporary reductions. In addition, T-Mobile will offer ABA plans in all areas where it provides home internet service and make its ABA plan webpage discoverable by search engines.
New Yorkers are eligible to enroll in an ABA plan if at least one member of their household is currently receiving any of the following benefits:
* Medicaid;
* Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP);
* Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) or any baseline utility affordability benefit;
* Free or reduced-price school lunch through the National School Lunch Program; or
* Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption or Disability Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE/DRIE).
New Yorkers without a household member enrolled in any of the above programs may still qualify for an ABA plan based on their income level. Governor Hochul and Attorney General James encourage New Yorkers to check their eligibility and learn more at broadband.ny.gov/consumer-resources.
This matter was handled by Assistant Attorney General Marc Montgomery and Senior Enforcement Counsel Jordan Adler of the Bureau of Internet and Technology, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Kim A. Berger and Deputy Bureau Chief Clark P. Russell. The Bureau of Internet and Technology is a part of the Division for Economic Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris D'Angelo and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux.
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Original text here: https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2026/attorney-general-james-and-governor-hochul-improve-access-affordable-home
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Attorney General James and Governor Hochul Improve Access to Affordable Home Internet for Vulnerable New Yorkers
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T-Mobile Will Remove Data Caps, Expand into New Areas, and Make it Easier for New Yorkers to Discover and Sign Up for Low-Priced Home Internet Service
NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an agreement with T-Mobile USA, Inc. (T-Mobile) requiring the company to improve and expand the home internet service it offers ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, Nov. 9 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release: * * * Attorney General James and Governor Hochul Improve Access to Affordable Home Internet for Vulnerable New Yorkers * T-Mobile Will Remove Data Caps, Expand into New Areas, and Make it Easier for New Yorkers to Discover and Sign Up for Low-Priced Home Internet Service NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an agreement with T-Mobile USA, Inc. (T-Mobile) requiring the company to improve and expand the home internet service it offerseligible New Yorkers under the New York Affordable Broadband Act (ABA). An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found T-Mobile's offerings did not meet the ABA's requirements, which mandate that home internet providers offer high-speed broadband to income-eligible households for $15 per month at speeds of at least 25 Megabits per second (Mbps), or $20 per month for speeds of at least 200 Mbps. The ABA also requires providers to make reasonable efforts to promote and advertise the availability of these affordable broadband plans. As a result of OAG's investigation, T-Mobile will end data caps that slowed the internet speeds of customers on ABA internet plans, offer ABA plans to more areas throughout the state, and make it easier for eligible New Yorkers to find and sign up for affordable internet plans.
"Reliable and affordable internet service is a basic need for all New Yorkers, but T-Mobile flouted the law designed to help vulnerable New Yorkers access it," said Attorney General James. "My office is committed to seeing the Affordable Broadband Act realize its goal of ensuring that New Yorkers in need are not denied access to affordable home internet. I encourage all eligible New Yorkers to enroll in a low-cost home internet plan through the ABA."
"Internet is a lifeline in today's world: it's essential for work, school, accessing emergency services, and staying in touch with loved ones. No New Yorker should struggle to access reliable and affordable internet, which is why my administration has made it a priority to ensure families and businesses across the state can thrive in today's digital world," said Governor Hochul. "Together with Attorney General James, I will continue to hold companies accountable and make sure everyone has the tools they need to participate fully in our society, democracy, and economy."
"Our role in the implementation of the Affordable Broadband Act and ensuring New Yorkers have access to affordable, reliable broadband is an important part of the Public Service Commission's work," said Public Service Commission Chair Rory Christian. "We appreciate the partnership of Governor Hochul and Attorney General James in addressing these concerns and securing changes that will affirm the Affordable Broadband Act's protections for eligible New Yorkers."
"Making high-quality broadband more affordable and accessible is central to Governor Hochul's vision of a more connected New York," said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight. "The Affordable Broadband Act is an important tool in closing the digital divide, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to the opportunities and essential services that internet access makes possible. We commend Attorney General James for her work to uphold these protections and ensure that more households across the state benefit from reliable, affordable connectivity."
The New York State Public Service Commission and Department of Public Service oversee compliance with the requirements of the ABA. After identifying concerns regarding T-Mobile's compliance with the law, the Department of Public Service referred the matter to the OAG for further review.
T-Mobile offers home internet plans to New Yorkers using a technology known as fixed wireless, which uses the company's existing mobile network to provide internet access. T-Mobile offers an ABA plan to eligible New Yorkers that advertises a download speed of 25 Mbps for a monthly price of $15, but OAG's investigation revealed that customers were actually receiving significantly slower download speeds because of a monthly data cap. After an ABA customer used 50 gigabytes of data in a month, T-Mobile would reduce the customer's download speed by more than 97 percent, to 650 Kilobits per second (Kbps). A typical customer could hit the data cap after about four days of usage.
The OAG's investigation also found that T-Mobile was only offering ABA plans in areas where it had deployed 5G wireless service, even though it offered full-price internet plans that could deliver 25 Mbps download speeds in areas where it had 4G service. In addition, T-Mobile specifically coded its website to hide its ABA plan information from search engines, making it difficult for New Yorkers searching for low-priced internet to find their plans.
As a result of OAG's investigation, T-Mobile will remove the data caps associated with their ABA plans and deliver 25 Mbps download speeds to all ABA plan subscribers, unless network congestion requires temporary reductions. In addition, T-Mobile will offer ABA plans in all areas where it provides home internet service and make its ABA plan webpage discoverable by search engines.
New Yorkers are eligible to enroll in an ABA plan if at least one member of their household is currently receiving any of the following benefits:
* Medicaid;
* Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP);
* Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) or any baseline utility affordability benefit;
* Free or reduced-price school lunch through the National School Lunch Program; or
* Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption or Disability Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE/DRIE).
New Yorkers without a household member enrolled in any of the above programs may still qualify for an ABA plan based on their income level. Governor Hochul and Attorney General James encourage New Yorkers to check their eligibility and learn more at broadband.ny.gov/consumer-resources.
This matter was handled by Assistant Attorney General Marc Montgomery and Senior Enforcement Counsel Jordan Adler of the Bureau of Internet and Technology, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Kim A. Berger and Deputy Bureau Chief Clark P. Russell. The Bureau of Internet and Technology is a part of the Division for Economic Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris D'Angelo and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux.
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Original text here: https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2026/attorney-general-james-and-governor-hochul-improve-access-affordable-home
Attorney General James Releases Guidance on New York's Shield Law
ALBANY, New York, Nov. 9 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release:
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Attorney General James Releases Guidance on New York's Shield Law
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New Resource Outlines Who the Law Protects and What to Do if Asked for Information About Reproductive or Gender-Affirming Health Care
NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today released guidance outlining New York's Shield Law protections for people who receive, provide, or help others access abortion and gender-affirming care. The guidance explains what New Yorkers must do if asked for information about ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, Nov. 9 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release: * * * Attorney General James Releases Guidance on New York's Shield Law * New Resource Outlines Who the Law Protects and What to Do if Asked for Information About Reproductive or Gender-Affirming Health Care NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today released guidance outlining New York's Shield Law protections for people who receive, provide, or help others access abortion and gender-affirming care. The guidance explains what New Yorkers must do if asked for information aboutprotected care, when information can be legally shared, and how New York protects people from improper attempts to investigate or punish that care. The plain-language resource is for patients, families, health care providers, attorneys, businesses, and anyone else who may receive a subpoena or other request for information about legally protected health care.
"New York has some of the strongest protections in the country for reproductive and gender-affirming health care, and we want to make sure people know how to use them," said Attorney General James. "This guidance gives New Yorkers a clear roadmap for protecting their private health information and standing up to unlawful attempts to reach across our state's borders. My office will always defend New Yorkers' right to make personal health care decisions free from interference."
"Protecting New Yorkers' confidential health records is paramount - especially when that information is sought through dubious legal processes and then weaponized to target trans youth seeking lifesaving gender-affirming care and women seeking reproductive care," said Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal. "I'm grateful to Attorney General James for her relentless defense of New York's Shield Law, which I was proud to sponsor in the State Senate. Today's announcement is a welcome next step, providing families and providers with greater clarity on how the Office of the Attorney General will enforce the law and how they can protect themselves against retribution for seeking or providing legally protected health care. I look forward to continuing our partnership with Attorney General James to ensure New York always remains a safe home for our trans community."
"Shield Law 2.0 guarantees access to reproductive or gender-affirming care that enables people to have bodily autonomy and to live safely and fully as their authentic selves," said Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson. "I thank Attorney General James for providing clear guidance and protections that clarify the provisions of this law to ensure that patients, their families, and healthcare providers remain safe from persecution and prosecution. These actions send a clear message that, under the guidance of Attorney General James, New York will not sacrifice healthcare rights, and will continue to do what's right for families and individuals by fighting to maintain healthcare dignity and freedom for all."
"At a time when access to reproductive and sexual healthcare is under relentless attack nationwide, New York must do everything in its power to protect patients and providers from politically motivated threats and intimidation," said Robin Chappelle Golston, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Empire State Acts. "New York's Shield Law is a critical safeguard for those providing and accessing essential reproductive health care. We applaud Attorney General James for providing this important guidance to help ensure these protections are fully implemented and that New York remains committed to ensuring access to care."
New York's original Shield Law, passed in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson, bars government entities from helping out-of-state efforts to penalize protected health care. In December 2025, Governor Hochul signed Shield Law 2.0, which extends protections to more providers, including therapists, speech pathologists, and other mental health practitioners. It also establishes processes governing the disclosure of protected health information. The guidance released today explains these new protections.
Who and what does the Shield Law protect?
The Shield Law covers a broad range of reproductive and gender-affirming health care that is legal in New York. The law protects people who receive, provide, and assist with it. That includes patients and their families, doctors, nurses, therapists and other health care professionals, clinic staff, and volunteers. It also includes people who help someone get to an appointment or pay for care, insurers, and attorneys who represent or advise patients and providers.
Under the Shield Law, patients and people managing their own care are protected wherever they are. Health care professionals and those helping patients are generally protected when they are physically in New York while providing care. The protections extend to telehealth, including medication abortion provided by a physician in New York.
Can protected health care be punished in New York?
No. State officials, law enforcement, and courts cannot enforce subpoenas, warrants, or extradition requests - or cooperate with any investigations or information requests - that seek to punish protected health care. New York courts cannot consider evidence that someone received or provided protected care as evidence against them, and parents and guardians cannot be punished for allowing their children to receive protected care.
Licensing boards cannot discipline providers for offering protected care or attorneys for representing people who provide or receive it. Professional-liability insurers cannot penalize medical professionals for providing protected care, including by raising rates or refusing to issue policies.
What does the Shield Law require New Yorkers to do if asked for covered information?
The Shield Law prohibits New Yorkers and New York companies from immediately handing over protected health information in response to a subpoena, investigative demand, or other request. Anyone who receives such a request must first:
* Confirm whether the request is about legally protected care or health information covered by the Shield Law;
* Get a sworn statement from the requestor affirming that the information will not be used to punish someone for legally protected health care;
* Notify the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and make a reasonable effort to notify anyone whose information would be included; and
* Wait 30 calendar days after notification before turning over any information.
These steps alert people when someone is seeking their sensitive health information and give OAG an opportunity to determine whether disclosure is allowed under New York law. The guidance includes concrete examples of information that is and is not covered, along with tools to get more information from the requestor and meet the OAG notification requirement.
Are there any exceptions to the Shield Law's disclosure requirements?
Yes. The Shield Law does not stop people from accessing their own health records or providers from accessing patient information for billing or treatment. A person or entity being investigated or prosecuted for providing protected care can request information needed for their defense, as long as they provide the required sworn statement. Exceptions also apply to certain government audits and grant-reporting requirements.
Importantly, the Shield Law does not prevent investigations into conduct that would itself violate New York law. If the request concerns protected health care, however, the recipient generally must still follow the notice and waiting-period requirements, unless another exception applies or a valid court order changes them.
Can people get in trouble for adhering to Shield Law requirements?
New Yorkers who follow these requirements are protected. A person or organization generally cannot be punished or held in contempt for delaying a response while complying with the Shield Law. Anyone who receives a covered request can also challenge it in court.
What happens if someone does not take the required disclosure steps?
Anyone who ignores the required steps or improperly shares protected information can face a $10,000 penalty. Lying in a sworn statement to circumvent the Shield Law carries a $15,000 penalty. The OAG also has the authority to take enforcement action for violations of the law or false affirmations. People targeted for providing or receiving protected care also have the right to sue those who try to punish them and, in certain circumstances, recover their costs and legal fees.
The OAG encourages New Yorkers with questions about whether a subpoena or information request is covered by the Shield Law to read the guidance carefully. If the request is covered, they should notify OAG and upload relevant documents at www.ag.ny.gov/shield-law-notice. Questions about the guidance can be directed to shield.law@ag.ny.gov.
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Original text here: https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2026/attorney-general-james-releases-guidance-new-yorks-shield-law
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Attorney General James Releases Guidance on New York's Shield Law
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New Resource Outlines Who the Law Protects and What to Do if Asked for Information About Reproductive or Gender-Affirming Health Care
NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today released guidance outlining New York's Shield Law protections for people who receive, provide, or help others access abortion and gender-affirming care. The guidance explains what New Yorkers must do if asked for information about ... Show Full Article ALBANY, New York, Nov. 9 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release: * * * Attorney General James Releases Guidance on New York's Shield Law * New Resource Outlines Who the Law Protects and What to Do if Asked for Information About Reproductive or Gender-Affirming Health Care NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today released guidance outlining New York's Shield Law protections for people who receive, provide, or help others access abortion and gender-affirming care. The guidance explains what New Yorkers must do if asked for information aboutprotected care, when information can be legally shared, and how New York protects people from improper attempts to investigate or punish that care. The plain-language resource is for patients, families, health care providers, attorneys, businesses, and anyone else who may receive a subpoena or other request for information about legally protected health care.
"New York has some of the strongest protections in the country for reproductive and gender-affirming health care, and we want to make sure people know how to use them," said Attorney General James. "This guidance gives New Yorkers a clear roadmap for protecting their private health information and standing up to unlawful attempts to reach across our state's borders. My office will always defend New Yorkers' right to make personal health care decisions free from interference."
"Protecting New Yorkers' confidential health records is paramount - especially when that information is sought through dubious legal processes and then weaponized to target trans youth seeking lifesaving gender-affirming care and women seeking reproductive care," said Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal. "I'm grateful to Attorney General James for her relentless defense of New York's Shield Law, which I was proud to sponsor in the State Senate. Today's announcement is a welcome next step, providing families and providers with greater clarity on how the Office of the Attorney General will enforce the law and how they can protect themselves against retribution for seeking or providing legally protected health care. I look forward to continuing our partnership with Attorney General James to ensure New York always remains a safe home for our trans community."
"Shield Law 2.0 guarantees access to reproductive or gender-affirming care that enables people to have bodily autonomy and to live safely and fully as their authentic selves," said Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson. "I thank Attorney General James for providing clear guidance and protections that clarify the provisions of this law to ensure that patients, their families, and healthcare providers remain safe from persecution and prosecution. These actions send a clear message that, under the guidance of Attorney General James, New York will not sacrifice healthcare rights, and will continue to do what's right for families and individuals by fighting to maintain healthcare dignity and freedom for all."
"At a time when access to reproductive and sexual healthcare is under relentless attack nationwide, New York must do everything in its power to protect patients and providers from politically motivated threats and intimidation," said Robin Chappelle Golston, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Empire State Acts. "New York's Shield Law is a critical safeguard for those providing and accessing essential reproductive health care. We applaud Attorney General James for providing this important guidance to help ensure these protections are fully implemented and that New York remains committed to ensuring access to care."
New York's original Shield Law, passed in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson, bars government entities from helping out-of-state efforts to penalize protected health care. In December 2025, Governor Hochul signed Shield Law 2.0, which extends protections to more providers, including therapists, speech pathologists, and other mental health practitioners. It also establishes processes governing the disclosure of protected health information. The guidance released today explains these new protections.
Who and what does the Shield Law protect?
The Shield Law covers a broad range of reproductive and gender-affirming health care that is legal in New York. The law protects people who receive, provide, and assist with it. That includes patients and their families, doctors, nurses, therapists and other health care professionals, clinic staff, and volunteers. It also includes people who help someone get to an appointment or pay for care, insurers, and attorneys who represent or advise patients and providers.
Under the Shield Law, patients and people managing their own care are protected wherever they are. Health care professionals and those helping patients are generally protected when they are physically in New York while providing care. The protections extend to telehealth, including medication abortion provided by a physician in New York.
Can protected health care be punished in New York?
No. State officials, law enforcement, and courts cannot enforce subpoenas, warrants, or extradition requests - or cooperate with any investigations or information requests - that seek to punish protected health care. New York courts cannot consider evidence that someone received or provided protected care as evidence against them, and parents and guardians cannot be punished for allowing their children to receive protected care.
Licensing boards cannot discipline providers for offering protected care or attorneys for representing people who provide or receive it. Professional-liability insurers cannot penalize medical professionals for providing protected care, including by raising rates or refusing to issue policies.
What does the Shield Law require New Yorkers to do if asked for covered information?
The Shield Law prohibits New Yorkers and New York companies from immediately handing over protected health information in response to a subpoena, investigative demand, or other request. Anyone who receives such a request must first:
* Confirm whether the request is about legally protected care or health information covered by the Shield Law;
* Get a sworn statement from the requestor affirming that the information will not be used to punish someone for legally protected health care;
* Notify the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and make a reasonable effort to notify anyone whose information would be included; and
* Wait 30 calendar days after notification before turning over any information.
These steps alert people when someone is seeking their sensitive health information and give OAG an opportunity to determine whether disclosure is allowed under New York law. The guidance includes concrete examples of information that is and is not covered, along with tools to get more information from the requestor and meet the OAG notification requirement.
Are there any exceptions to the Shield Law's disclosure requirements?
Yes. The Shield Law does not stop people from accessing their own health records or providers from accessing patient information for billing or treatment. A person or entity being investigated or prosecuted for providing protected care can request information needed for their defense, as long as they provide the required sworn statement. Exceptions also apply to certain government audits and grant-reporting requirements.
Importantly, the Shield Law does not prevent investigations into conduct that would itself violate New York law. If the request concerns protected health care, however, the recipient generally must still follow the notice and waiting-period requirements, unless another exception applies or a valid court order changes them.
Can people get in trouble for adhering to Shield Law requirements?
New Yorkers who follow these requirements are protected. A person or organization generally cannot be punished or held in contempt for delaying a response while complying with the Shield Law. Anyone who receives a covered request can also challenge it in court.
What happens if someone does not take the required disclosure steps?
Anyone who ignores the required steps or improperly shares protected information can face a $10,000 penalty. Lying in a sworn statement to circumvent the Shield Law carries a $15,000 penalty. The OAG also has the authority to take enforcement action for violations of the law or false affirmations. People targeted for providing or receiving protected care also have the right to sue those who try to punish them and, in certain circumstances, recover their costs and legal fees.
The OAG encourages New Yorkers with questions about whether a subpoena or information request is covered by the Shield Law to read the guidance carefully. If the request is covered, they should notify OAG and upload relevant documents at www.ag.ny.gov/shield-law-notice. Questions about the guidance can be directed to shield.law@ag.ny.gov.
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Original text here: https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2026/attorney-general-james-releases-guidance-new-yorks-shield-law
Attorney General Bonta Strongly Opposes Trump Administration's Efforts to Rescind Postal Service NEPA Regulations
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 9 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Bonta Strongly Opposes Trump Administration's Efforts to Rescind Postal Service NEPA Regulations
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OAKLAND -- Attorney General Rob Bonta today co-led a coalition of 21 attorneys general, cities, and counties in submitting a comment letter to the United States Postal Service (USPS) opposing its interim final rule that weakens its implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The rule rescinds most of USPS's NEPA regulations and replaces them with ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 9 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release: * * * Attorney General Bonta Strongly Opposes Trump Administration's Efforts to Rescind Postal Service NEPA Regulations * OAKLAND -- Attorney General Rob Bonta today co-led a coalition of 21 attorneys general, cities, and counties in submitting a comment letter to the United States Postal Service (USPS) opposing its interim final rule that weakens its implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The rule rescinds most of USPS's NEPA regulations and replaces them withnon-binding internal procedures that omit crucial provisions, curtail public involvement in NEPA reviews, and identify vague and overly broad categorical exclusions from NEPA requirements. In the comment letter, Attorney General Bonta and the coalition argue that USPS should retract this final interim rule that will lead to less-informed decision making about the environmental impacts of major federal actions nationwide.
"NEPA's protections are in place to ensure that federal development does not compromise the safety, wellbeing, or sustainability of our environment and the populations that inhabit it. When environmental impacts are ignored or crucial opinions are left out of the decision-making process, our communities bear the burden," said Attorney General Bonta. "Uninformed decisions manifest in polluted air, compromised water, and overall greater climate risks that get passed down to future generations. We're urging the Trump Administration to immediately withdraw its rule and implement the core provisions of NEPA that prioritize transparency and public accountability."
Enacted in 1969, NEPA requires federal agencies to thoroughly analyze and publicly disclose the environmental impacts of proposed federal actions -- projects that are built, funded, or approved by the federal government -- and identify feasible alternatives that could avoid potential negative effects. By requiring thorough environmental review ahead of major federal actions, NEPA has helped regulatory agencies and the American people evaluate and understand how such projects impact the environment and public health. NEPA also requires agencies to accept and consider public comments when approving major federal projects, giving communities a voice on federal actions that may affect them. Across the country, Americans have benefited from increased safety and preservation of natural resources as a result of NEPA's review process.
In an effort to reach the goals set forth in President Trump's Executive Order "Unleashing American Energy," the Trump Administration has taken dramatic steps to undercut NEPA review. On September 25, 2026, USPS published its interim final rule that rescinds the majority of USPS's NEPA regulations and replaces them with non-binding guidance. The rule also creates categorical exclusions exempting USPS from NEPA's requirements for certain categories of actions -- including for purchases and fuel conversion of vehicles with comparable or improved relative fuel efficiency and air emissions, and for certain purchase or sale of existing facilities -- unless USPS finds extraordinary circumstances apply.
In the comment letter, Attorney General Bonta and the coalition assert that:
In sending today's comment letter, Attorney General Bonta, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and Washington Attorney General Nicholas W. Brown co-lead the attorneys general of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia, along with the Harris County Attorney and Corporation Counsel of New York City.
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Original text here: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-strongly-opposes-trump-administration%E2%80%99s-efforts-rescind (TNSmlt)
* * *
Attorney General Bonta Strongly Opposes Trump Administration's Efforts to Rescind Postal Service NEPA Regulations
*
OAKLAND -- Attorney General Rob Bonta today co-led a coalition of 21 attorneys general, cities, and counties in submitting a comment letter to the United States Postal Service (USPS) opposing its interim final rule that weakens its implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The rule rescinds most of USPS's NEPA regulations and replaces them with ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 9 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release: * * * Attorney General Bonta Strongly Opposes Trump Administration's Efforts to Rescind Postal Service NEPA Regulations * OAKLAND -- Attorney General Rob Bonta today co-led a coalition of 21 attorneys general, cities, and counties in submitting a comment letter to the United States Postal Service (USPS) opposing its interim final rule that weakens its implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The rule rescinds most of USPS's NEPA regulations and replaces them withnon-binding internal procedures that omit crucial provisions, curtail public involvement in NEPA reviews, and identify vague and overly broad categorical exclusions from NEPA requirements. In the comment letter, Attorney General Bonta and the coalition argue that USPS should retract this final interim rule that will lead to less-informed decision making about the environmental impacts of major federal actions nationwide.
"NEPA's protections are in place to ensure that federal development does not compromise the safety, wellbeing, or sustainability of our environment and the populations that inhabit it. When environmental impacts are ignored or crucial opinions are left out of the decision-making process, our communities bear the burden," said Attorney General Bonta. "Uninformed decisions manifest in polluted air, compromised water, and overall greater climate risks that get passed down to future generations. We're urging the Trump Administration to immediately withdraw its rule and implement the core provisions of NEPA that prioritize transparency and public accountability."
Enacted in 1969, NEPA requires federal agencies to thoroughly analyze and publicly disclose the environmental impacts of proposed federal actions -- projects that are built, funded, or approved by the federal government -- and identify feasible alternatives that could avoid potential negative effects. By requiring thorough environmental review ahead of major federal actions, NEPA has helped regulatory agencies and the American people evaluate and understand how such projects impact the environment and public health. NEPA also requires agencies to accept and consider public comments when approving major federal projects, giving communities a voice on federal actions that may affect them. Across the country, Americans have benefited from increased safety and preservation of natural resources as a result of NEPA's review process.
In an effort to reach the goals set forth in President Trump's Executive Order "Unleashing American Energy," the Trump Administration has taken dramatic steps to undercut NEPA review. On September 25, 2026, USPS published its interim final rule that rescinds the majority of USPS's NEPA regulations and replaces them with non-binding guidance. The rule also creates categorical exclusions exempting USPS from NEPA's requirements for certain categories of actions -- including for purchases and fuel conversion of vehicles with comparable or improved relative fuel efficiency and air emissions, and for certain purchase or sale of existing facilities -- unless USPS finds extraordinary circumstances apply.
In the comment letter, Attorney General Bonta and the coalition assert that:
In sending today's comment letter, Attorney General Bonta, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and Washington Attorney General Nicholas W. Brown co-lead the attorneys general of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia, along with the Harris County Attorney and Corporation Counsel of New York City.
***
Original text here: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-strongly-opposes-trump-administration%E2%80%99s-efforts-rescind (TNSmlt)
AG's annual Data Breach Report recommends stronger protections for Washingtonians' personal information
OLYMPIA, Washington, Nov. 9 (TNSrpt) -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release:
* * *
AG's annual Data Breach Report recommends stronger protections for Washingtonians' personal information
*
The Attorney General's Office released its annual Data Breach Report today following a year in which businesses, government agencies, and other institutions reported 197 data breaches to the state and sent more than 3.5 million notices to Washington residents.
The report analyzes these results and also recommends updates to the state's data breach notification laws ... Show Full Article OLYMPIA, Washington, Nov. 9 (TNSrpt) -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release: * * * AG's annual Data Breach Report recommends stronger protections for Washingtonians' personal information * The Attorney General's Office released its annual Data Breach Report today following a year in which businesses, government agencies, and other institutions reported 197 data breaches to the state and sent more than 3.5 million notices to Washington residents. The report analyzes these results and also recommends updates to the state's data breach notification lawsto strengthen data security and further ensure Washingtonians are notified when their personal information is compromised.
"Every day, Washingtonians entrust their personal information to private companies and public institutions. Their data should be secured and not shared without their consent," said Attorney General Nick Brown. "As threats to data security evolve, Washington's approach to protecting this data must evolve as well."
A data breach is an unauthorized access of data that compromises security, confidentiality or integrity of personal information maintained by an individual, business or agency. Corporations collect and sell massive amounts of sensitive personal data. The more this data is shared and collected, the more vulnerable consumers are to data breaches and cybercrime.
Washington law requires private and public entities to notify any Washington resident whose personal information was, or is reasonably believed to have been, acquired by an unauthorized person. If the breach affects more than 500 Washington residents, it must be reported to the Attorney General's Office.
The report covers breach notices the Attorney General's Office received between July 24, 2025, and July 23, 2026. While both the number of reported breaches and the number of notices declined from the previous reporting year, the findings show that sensitive personal information remains at risk.
Key findings include:
* Cyberattacks were the leading cause of data breaches, accounting for 139 incidents. Ransomware remained the most common method of cyberattack, responsible for 86 incidents.
* Social Security numbers were exposed in 148 breaches --over 75% of all reported breaches.
* During the year, no mega breaches affecting 1 million or more Washington residents were reported.
Washington's data breach notification laws were last updated in 2019. The report recommends that lawmakers:
* Expand the definition of personal information to include additional identifiers, such as Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, Tribal identification and enrollment numbers, IRS Identity Protection PINs, precise geolocation data and the last four digits of Social Security numbers when combined with a person's name.
* Require entities that own or license Washingtonians' personal information to maintain reasonable security procedures and practices appropriate to the information they hold.
* Require notification when an AI agent operated by an entity gains unauthorized access to a Washington resident's personal information or a state agency.
The recommendations also reflect the findings of the AG's recent 2026 Data Privacy Report, which identified broader steps to strengthen protections for data that businesses and institutions collect, retain and share. That report also encourages lawmakers to consider a data broker registry and additional limits on the collection, sharing and sale of sensitive personal information.
* * *
REPORT: https://agportal-s3bucket.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Data%20Privacy/DPR_2026_final.pdf?VersionId=GDz4dM3XKhDTJMm9vpMkj0CEQyWIw7to
***
Original text here: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-s-annual-data-breach-report-recommends-stronger-protections-washingtonians (TNSmrp)
* * *
AG's annual Data Breach Report recommends stronger protections for Washingtonians' personal information
*
The Attorney General's Office released its annual Data Breach Report today following a year in which businesses, government agencies, and other institutions reported 197 data breaches to the state and sent more than 3.5 million notices to Washington residents.
The report analyzes these results and also recommends updates to the state's data breach notification laws ... Show Full Article OLYMPIA, Washington, Nov. 9 (TNSrpt) -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release: * * * AG's annual Data Breach Report recommends stronger protections for Washingtonians' personal information * The Attorney General's Office released its annual Data Breach Report today following a year in which businesses, government agencies, and other institutions reported 197 data breaches to the state and sent more than 3.5 million notices to Washington residents. The report analyzes these results and also recommends updates to the state's data breach notification lawsto strengthen data security and further ensure Washingtonians are notified when their personal information is compromised.
"Every day, Washingtonians entrust their personal information to private companies and public institutions. Their data should be secured and not shared without their consent," said Attorney General Nick Brown. "As threats to data security evolve, Washington's approach to protecting this data must evolve as well."
A data breach is an unauthorized access of data that compromises security, confidentiality or integrity of personal information maintained by an individual, business or agency. Corporations collect and sell massive amounts of sensitive personal data. The more this data is shared and collected, the more vulnerable consumers are to data breaches and cybercrime.
Washington law requires private and public entities to notify any Washington resident whose personal information was, or is reasonably believed to have been, acquired by an unauthorized person. If the breach affects more than 500 Washington residents, it must be reported to the Attorney General's Office.
The report covers breach notices the Attorney General's Office received between July 24, 2025, and July 23, 2026. While both the number of reported breaches and the number of notices declined from the previous reporting year, the findings show that sensitive personal information remains at risk.
Key findings include:
* Cyberattacks were the leading cause of data breaches, accounting for 139 incidents. Ransomware remained the most common method of cyberattack, responsible for 86 incidents.
* Social Security numbers were exposed in 148 breaches --over 75% of all reported breaches.
* During the year, no mega breaches affecting 1 million or more Washington residents were reported.
Washington's data breach notification laws were last updated in 2019. The report recommends that lawmakers:
* Expand the definition of personal information to include additional identifiers, such as Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, Tribal identification and enrollment numbers, IRS Identity Protection PINs, precise geolocation data and the last four digits of Social Security numbers when combined with a person's name.
* Require entities that own or license Washingtonians' personal information to maintain reasonable security procedures and practices appropriate to the information they hold.
* Require notification when an AI agent operated by an entity gains unauthorized access to a Washington resident's personal information or a state agency.
The recommendations also reflect the findings of the AG's recent 2026 Data Privacy Report, which identified broader steps to strengthen protections for data that businesses and institutions collect, retain and share. That report also encourages lawmakers to consider a data broker registry and additional limits on the collection, sharing and sale of sensitive personal information.
* * *
REPORT: https://agportal-s3bucket.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Data%20Privacy/DPR_2026_final.pdf?VersionId=GDz4dM3XKhDTJMm9vpMkj0CEQyWIw7to
***
Original text here: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-s-annual-data-breach-report-recommends-stronger-protections-washingtonians (TNSmrp)
AG Rayfield Leads Coalition Urging Congress to Reject Giveaway to Predatory Lenders
SALEM, Oregon, Nov. 9 (TNSida) -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release:
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AG Rayfield Leads Coalition Urging Congress to Reject Giveaway to Predatory Lenders
*
Bill in Congress would make it easier for online lenders to charge triple-digit interest by routing loans through out-of-state banks
Attorney General Dan Rayfield is leading a coalition of 18 attorneys general urging the U.S. House of Representatives to vote No on H.R. 7866, a bill that would make it easier for predatory lenders to charge Oregonians triple-digit interest rates and sidestep the state's ... Show Full Article SALEM, Oregon, Nov. 9 (TNSida) -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release: * * * AG Rayfield Leads Coalition Urging Congress to Reject Giveaway to Predatory Lenders * Bill in Congress would make it easier for online lenders to charge triple-digit interest by routing loans through out-of-state banks Attorney General Dan Rayfield is leading a coalition of 18 attorneys general urging the U.S. House of Representatives to vote No on H.R. 7866, a bill that would make it easier for predatory lenders to charge Oregonians triple-digit interest rates and sidestep the state'sconsumer protection laws.
"Too often, we've seen working families buried in debt from lenders charging triple-digit interest," said Attorney General Rayfield. "That's why Oregon has passed laws capping predatory interest rates--and we're not going to stand by and watch Congress carve out a massive loophole for lenders to exploit our struggling neighbors."
In 2007, then-Speaker Jeff Merkley (now US Senator) successfully sponsored a bill in the Oregon legislature capping interest rates at 36%, reining in out-of-control interest rates from short-term lenders. Many other states and Washington, D.C. also cap how much interest lenders can charge on consumer loans. Those limits help keep people from getting buried under debt they can never realistically pay off.
Despite these state laws, federal law allows state-chartered banks to follow their home state's interest-rate rules when they lend to people in other states. Under that federal law-the Depository Institutions Deregulation and Monetary Control Act, or DIDMCA-banks based in states with no cap on interest rates can generally charge other states' borrowers more than local law would otherwise allow. But--importantly--Congress has allowed states to opt out and keep enforcing their own interest-rate limits on out-of-state banks lending to their residents.
But that has changed. In recent years, some online lenders have teamed up with banks in states that don't cap interest rates, using the bank as a front to offer loans to consumers far above what local laws allow. These are often called "rent-a-bank" schemes.
To shut down that massive loophole, states have turned to the opt-out Congress gave them. Oregon lawmakers passed House Bill 4116(Opens in a new tab/window) in 2026 to keep out-of-state banks and online lenders from charging Oregonians more interest than Oregon law would otherwise allow.
States have also pushed back when predatory online lenders tried another route around those limits: buying a bank outright. Earlier this year, Attorney General Rayfield joined attorneys general from across the country in urging federal banking regulators to reject bids by two online lenders, Enova and OppFi, to acquire national banks, warning the deals could let the companies sidestep state interest-rate caps. In the face of this advocacy effort by state AGs, both have since abandoned their plans. Enova withdrew its applications in September, citing "political pressure and outside advocacy," and OppFi withdrew its applications on Nov. 3.
What H.R. 7866 would do
H.R. 7866 would take away the opt-out that states like Oregon have relied on. States would no longer be able to enforce their interest-rate limits against out-of-state banks - or the lenders partnering with them - leaving Oregonians more exposed to high-cost loans at the very moment these schemes are growing.
The AGs' letter urges Congress to reject the bill and respect states' long-standing role in protecting their residents from predatory, high-cost lending.
Attorney General Rayfield led the letter, which was also signed by the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, and Washington.
* * *
INFODOC: https://www.doj.state.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/2026-11-09-State-AG-ltr-opposing-HR-7866.pdf
***
Original text here: https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-leads-coalition-urging-congress-to-reject-giveaway-to-predatory-lenders/ (TNSmlt)
* * *
AG Rayfield Leads Coalition Urging Congress to Reject Giveaway to Predatory Lenders
*
Bill in Congress would make it easier for online lenders to charge triple-digit interest by routing loans through out-of-state banks
Attorney General Dan Rayfield is leading a coalition of 18 attorneys general urging the U.S. House of Representatives to vote No on H.R. 7866, a bill that would make it easier for predatory lenders to charge Oregonians triple-digit interest rates and sidestep the state's ... Show Full Article SALEM, Oregon, Nov. 9 (TNSida) -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release: * * * AG Rayfield Leads Coalition Urging Congress to Reject Giveaway to Predatory Lenders * Bill in Congress would make it easier for online lenders to charge triple-digit interest by routing loans through out-of-state banks Attorney General Dan Rayfield is leading a coalition of 18 attorneys general urging the U.S. House of Representatives to vote No on H.R. 7866, a bill that would make it easier for predatory lenders to charge Oregonians triple-digit interest rates and sidestep the state'sconsumer protection laws.
"Too often, we've seen working families buried in debt from lenders charging triple-digit interest," said Attorney General Rayfield. "That's why Oregon has passed laws capping predatory interest rates--and we're not going to stand by and watch Congress carve out a massive loophole for lenders to exploit our struggling neighbors."
In 2007, then-Speaker Jeff Merkley (now US Senator) successfully sponsored a bill in the Oregon legislature capping interest rates at 36%, reining in out-of-control interest rates from short-term lenders. Many other states and Washington, D.C. also cap how much interest lenders can charge on consumer loans. Those limits help keep people from getting buried under debt they can never realistically pay off.
Despite these state laws, federal law allows state-chartered banks to follow their home state's interest-rate rules when they lend to people in other states. Under that federal law-the Depository Institutions Deregulation and Monetary Control Act, or DIDMCA-banks based in states with no cap on interest rates can generally charge other states' borrowers more than local law would otherwise allow. But--importantly--Congress has allowed states to opt out and keep enforcing their own interest-rate limits on out-of-state banks lending to their residents.
But that has changed. In recent years, some online lenders have teamed up with banks in states that don't cap interest rates, using the bank as a front to offer loans to consumers far above what local laws allow. These are often called "rent-a-bank" schemes.
To shut down that massive loophole, states have turned to the opt-out Congress gave them. Oregon lawmakers passed House Bill 4116(Opens in a new tab/window) in 2026 to keep out-of-state banks and online lenders from charging Oregonians more interest than Oregon law would otherwise allow.
States have also pushed back when predatory online lenders tried another route around those limits: buying a bank outright. Earlier this year, Attorney General Rayfield joined attorneys general from across the country in urging federal banking regulators to reject bids by two online lenders, Enova and OppFi, to acquire national banks, warning the deals could let the companies sidestep state interest-rate caps. In the face of this advocacy effort by state AGs, both have since abandoned their plans. Enova withdrew its applications in September, citing "political pressure and outside advocacy," and OppFi withdrew its applications on Nov. 3.
What H.R. 7866 would do
H.R. 7866 would take away the opt-out that states like Oregon have relied on. States would no longer be able to enforce their interest-rate limits against out-of-state banks - or the lenders partnering with them - leaving Oregonians more exposed to high-cost loans at the very moment these schemes are growing.
The AGs' letter urges Congress to reject the bill and respect states' long-standing role in protecting their residents from predatory, high-cost lending.
Attorney General Rayfield led the letter, which was also signed by the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, and Washington.
* * *
INFODOC: https://www.doj.state.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/2026-11-09-State-AG-ltr-opposing-HR-7866.pdf
***
Original text here: https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-leads-coalition-urging-congress-to-reject-giveaway-to-predatory-lenders/ (TNSmlt)
AG Rayfield Fights to Restore Reproductive Health Care for Veterans
SALEM, Oregon, Nov. 9 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release:
* * *
AG Rayfield Fights to Restore Reproductive Health Care for Veterans
*
Trump Administration rule cuts off abortion care without exceptions for the health of the mother
Attorney General Dan Rayfield is urging a federal appeals court to restore reproductive health care for veterans and their families. The Trump Administration's new U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rule takes abortion care away from about 90% of the people who qualified for it previously--including women whose pregnancies ... Show Full Article SALEM, Oregon, Nov. 9 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release: * * * AG Rayfield Fights to Restore Reproductive Health Care for Veterans * Trump Administration rule cuts off abortion care without exceptions for the health of the mother Attorney General Dan Rayfield is urging a federal appeals court to restore reproductive health care for veterans and their families. The Trump Administration's new U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rule takes abortion care away from about 90% of the people who qualified for it previously--including women whose pregnanciesput their health at risk.
"Veterans and their families put everything on the line to serve this country. No veteran should have to wonder what will happen if a pregnancy turns dangerous," said Attorney General Rayfield. "This rule takes care away from the people who need it most and leaves doctors second-guessing themselves in an emergency."
The case, Minority Veterans of America v. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, challenges the VA rule that bans abortion care in nearly all situations. AG Rayfield and 22 attorneys general filed a friend-of-the-court (amicus) brief, arguing that the rule puts veterans' health at risk, leaves doctors unsure whether they can act in an emergency, and pushes the cost of care onto state health care systems.
In 2022, the VA began allowing abortion care for veterans, their survivors, and dependents when a pregnancy threatened the patient's health, or in cases of rape or incest. VA doctors could also talk with patients about abortion as an option. In December 2025, the Trump Administration reversed those protections.
The implementation statistics of the 2022 policy proved why it was so necessary. In its first year, 73% of patients who received abortion care through the VA had pregnancies that threatened their health, 17% were survivors of rape, and 10% faced pregnancies that threatened their lives. Under the new Trump rule, these Veterans would no longer receive the abortion care they need.
Last year, a coalition of attorneys general raised concerns directly with the VA and the White House Office of Management and Budget, submitting a detailed comment letter in September 2025. The VA finalized the rule without changes.
In the brief, the attorneys general argue the rule:
* Puts veterans' health and finances at risk. Veterans face higher rates of pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, high blood pressure, and gestational diabetes. Getting care outside the VA isn't realistic for many: 43% of women of reproductive age don't have enough savings to cover the typical $563 cost of a medication abortion.
* Leaves doctors guessing in emergencies. The rule spells out that certain family members and survivors can still get life-saving abortion care, but it doesn't say the same for veterans themselves. That gap could lead doctors to delay emergency treatment out of fear of losing their license or facing jail time. Since the end of Roe v. Wade, at least seven deaths have been documented where interference with emergency care played a role.
* Is stricter than most state abortion bans. The rule also breaks from federal emergency care law, which requires hospitals to stabilize pregnant patients facing serious medical emergencies.
* Keeps patients in the dark. VA doctors can no longer discuss abortion as a medical option, so veterans lose the information they need to make their own health care decisions -- and the trust between patient and doctor suffers.
* Shifts costs to states. When the VA won't provide care, veterans turn to state Medicaid programs, like the Oregon Health Plan, and other safety-net services that are already stretched thin.
Attorney General Rayfield filed the brief alongside the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai'i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.
***
Original text here: https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-fights-to-restore-reproductive-health-care-for-veterans/ (TNSmlt)
* * *
AG Rayfield Fights to Restore Reproductive Health Care for Veterans
*
Trump Administration rule cuts off abortion care without exceptions for the health of the mother
Attorney General Dan Rayfield is urging a federal appeals court to restore reproductive health care for veterans and their families. The Trump Administration's new U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rule takes abortion care away from about 90% of the people who qualified for it previously--including women whose pregnancies ... Show Full Article SALEM, Oregon, Nov. 9 -- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield issued the following news release: * * * AG Rayfield Fights to Restore Reproductive Health Care for Veterans * Trump Administration rule cuts off abortion care without exceptions for the health of the mother Attorney General Dan Rayfield is urging a federal appeals court to restore reproductive health care for veterans and their families. The Trump Administration's new U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rule takes abortion care away from about 90% of the people who qualified for it previously--including women whose pregnanciesput their health at risk.
"Veterans and their families put everything on the line to serve this country. No veteran should have to wonder what will happen if a pregnancy turns dangerous," said Attorney General Rayfield. "This rule takes care away from the people who need it most and leaves doctors second-guessing themselves in an emergency."
The case, Minority Veterans of America v. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, challenges the VA rule that bans abortion care in nearly all situations. AG Rayfield and 22 attorneys general filed a friend-of-the-court (amicus) brief, arguing that the rule puts veterans' health at risk, leaves doctors unsure whether they can act in an emergency, and pushes the cost of care onto state health care systems.
In 2022, the VA began allowing abortion care for veterans, their survivors, and dependents when a pregnancy threatened the patient's health, or in cases of rape or incest. VA doctors could also talk with patients about abortion as an option. In December 2025, the Trump Administration reversed those protections.
The implementation statistics of the 2022 policy proved why it was so necessary. In its first year, 73% of patients who received abortion care through the VA had pregnancies that threatened their health, 17% were survivors of rape, and 10% faced pregnancies that threatened their lives. Under the new Trump rule, these Veterans would no longer receive the abortion care they need.
Last year, a coalition of attorneys general raised concerns directly with the VA and the White House Office of Management and Budget, submitting a detailed comment letter in September 2025. The VA finalized the rule without changes.
In the brief, the attorneys general argue the rule:
* Puts veterans' health and finances at risk. Veterans face higher rates of pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, high blood pressure, and gestational diabetes. Getting care outside the VA isn't realistic for many: 43% of women of reproductive age don't have enough savings to cover the typical $563 cost of a medication abortion.
* Leaves doctors guessing in emergencies. The rule spells out that certain family members and survivors can still get life-saving abortion care, but it doesn't say the same for veterans themselves. That gap could lead doctors to delay emergency treatment out of fear of losing their license or facing jail time. Since the end of Roe v. Wade, at least seven deaths have been documented where interference with emergency care played a role.
* Is stricter than most state abortion bans. The rule also breaks from federal emergency care law, which requires hospitals to stabilize pregnant patients facing serious medical emergencies.
* Keeps patients in the dark. VA doctors can no longer discuss abortion as a medical option, so veterans lose the information they need to make their own health care decisions -- and the trust between patient and doctor suffers.
* Shifts costs to states. When the VA won't provide care, veterans turn to state Medicaid programs, like the Oregon Health Plan, and other safety-net services that are already stretched thin.
Attorney General Rayfield filed the brief alongside the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai'i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.
***
Original text here: https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-fights-to-restore-reproductive-health-care-for-veterans/ (TNSmlt)
AG Labrador Shares Defective and Hazardous Product Recall List for October 2026
BOISE, Idaho, Nov. 9 -- Idaho Attorney General Raul R. Labrador issued the following news release:
* * *
AG Labrador Shares Defective and Hazardous Product Recall List for October 2026
*
BOISE, ID - Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador released a list of 40 hazardous products subject to a federal recall from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for the month of October. These recalled products include bicycles, rechargeable hand warmers, furniture, and eleven items specifically designed for infants and children.
"Consumers need to be vigilant about product safety, especially when it ... Show Full Article BOISE, Idaho, Nov. 9 -- Idaho Attorney General Raul R. Labrador issued the following news release: * * * AG Labrador Shares Defective and Hazardous Product Recall List for October 2026 * BOISE, ID - Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador released a list of 40 hazardous products subject to a federal recall from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for the month of October. These recalled products include bicycles, rechargeable hand warmers, furniture, and eleven items specifically designed for infants and children. "Consumers need to be vigilant about product safety, especially when itcomes to children," said Attorney General Labrador. "Our office works to protect families every day, and keeping the public informed of these federal recalls helps parents make smart, informed choices."
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports the following products were recalled in October:
Longjili Trading Recalls Pamag Pieeoo Mattresses Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire Hazard; Violate Mandatory Standard for Mattress Flammability
PILLANI Recalls Nursing Pillows Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Suffocation; Violate Mandatory Standards for Nursing Pillows
DREO Recalls DR-HSH015 Space Heaters Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
Fashion Brand Apparel Recalls QZH.DUAO Pajama Sets Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Burn Hazard; Violate Mandatory Standards for Children's Sleepwear
NTI and HTP Brand Gas Boilers Recalled Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire, Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning and Impact Hazards; Manufactured by Ariston, formerly NTI Boilers
Bodum USA Recalls 5.9 Million French Press Coffee Makers with Replaceable Glass Carafes Due to Risk of Serious Burn Injury
HAIARA Power Banks Recalled Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire and Burn Hazards; Sold on Amazon.com by Mitrytech
Yinklev Recalls Jocoevol 6-Drawer Dressers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Tip-Over and Entrapment Hazards; Violate Mandatory Standard for Clothing Storage Units
Whatever Works Recalls Microwave Grills Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire Hazard
VQQQ Gas Patio Heaters Recalled Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire and Burn Hazards
Lithonia Lighting Recalls RSX Luminaires with Adjustable Tilt Arm Mountings Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Impact Hazard
Costway Recalls Convertible High Chairs Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment and Fall Hazards; Violate Mandatory Standard for High Chairs
BAMAMON Recalls LED Projecting Finger Light Toys Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Battery Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
FoShanShiNanHaiQuNuoAiTongZhuangShangHang Recalls CIYTI Light-Up Princess Costumes Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Battery Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
Loving Thyself Rocks Recalls Crystal Glass Cups Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Ingestion and Laceration Hazards
Papablic, of USA Recalls Convertible Bedside Sleepers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment, Suffocation and Fall Hazards; Violate Mandatory Standard for Play Yards
usOpal Recalls Xalirium Portable Bed Rails Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment and Asphyxiation; Violate Mandatory Standard for Adult Portable Bed Rails
3M Company Recalls Scotch(tm) Thermal Laminators Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire Hazard
Primark Recalls 101 Dalmatians Faux Leather Children's Coin Purses Due to Phthalate Levels and Risk of Ingestion
HatsanUSA Recalls Blitz Air Rifles Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Projectile Hazard
DR Power Equipment Recalls Pilot and Premier Trimmer Mowers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire and Burn Hazards
Romorgniz Recalls Six-Drawer Dressers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Tip-Over and Entrapment Hazards; Violate Mandatory Standard for Clothing Storage Units
ONTHEWEI Recalls Baby Bath Seats Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death to Children from Drowning; Violate Mandatory Standard for Infant Bath Seats
Snow Peak Recalls Propane Fireplace Inserts and Lava Rocks Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Burn and Fire Hazards
Pacearth Direct Recalls PACEARTH Swing Seats Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Fall Hazard
The Conqueror Recalls Avengers Medals Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Magnet Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Magnets
Decathlon America Recalls Van Rysel GRVL AF Bicycles Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Crash Hazard
Giant Bicycle Recalls LED-Light Keys Included with SureLock Bike Lock Sets Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Battery Ingestion; Violates Mandatory Standard for Consumer Products with Button Cell Batteries
Gobi Heat Recalls Rechargeable Hand Warmers Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Fire and Burn Hazards
Gazelle USA Recalls Urban Arrow Cargo Electric Bikes Due to Fall Hazard
Kobayashi Recalls Rechargeable Hand Warmers Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Fire and Burn Hazards
Agrish Reannounces and Expands Recall of Adult Portable Bed Rails Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment and Asphyxiation; Violate Mandatory Standard for Adult Portable Bed Rails; Additional Units Added
Designs Direct Recalls Cupcakes and Cashmere Brand Three-Light Floor Lamps, Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Fire and Burn Hazards
GBYMIUY Recalls Magnetic Stick Figure Toy Sets Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Magnet Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
YunHeng Recalls LandTale Bed Rails Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment and Asphyxiation; Violate Mandatory Standard for Adult Portable Bed Rails
LLK Trading Recalls Mochi Malrang Mystery Dumpling Toys Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Water Bead Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
Dollar Tree Stores Recalls Electric Balloon Pumps Due to Burn Hazard
Walmart Recalls Over 4.4 Million Expert Grill Brushes Due to Ingestion Hazard
Golden Resale Recalls Portable Camping Showers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire Hazard
ABC Trading Recalls Squishy Toys Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Water Bead Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
If you believe you recently purchased a recalled product, stop using it, and check its recall notice (linked above for all products). Follow the notice's instructions, including where to return the product, how to get the product fixed, how to dispose of the product, how to receive a refund for the product, or what steps must be taken to receive a replacement product.
To file a complaint about a defective product that you feel is unsafe, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website.
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Original text here: https://www.ag.idaho.gov/newsroom/ag-labrador-shares-defective-and-hazardous-product-recall-list-for-october-2026/
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AG Labrador Shares Defective and Hazardous Product Recall List for October 2026
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BOISE, ID - Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador released a list of 40 hazardous products subject to a federal recall from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for the month of October. These recalled products include bicycles, rechargeable hand warmers, furniture, and eleven items specifically designed for infants and children.
"Consumers need to be vigilant about product safety, especially when it ... Show Full Article BOISE, Idaho, Nov. 9 -- Idaho Attorney General Raul R. Labrador issued the following news release: * * * AG Labrador Shares Defective and Hazardous Product Recall List for October 2026 * BOISE, ID - Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador released a list of 40 hazardous products subject to a federal recall from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for the month of October. These recalled products include bicycles, rechargeable hand warmers, furniture, and eleven items specifically designed for infants and children. "Consumers need to be vigilant about product safety, especially when itcomes to children," said Attorney General Labrador. "Our office works to protect families every day, and keeping the public informed of these federal recalls helps parents make smart, informed choices."
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports the following products were recalled in October:
Longjili Trading Recalls Pamag Pieeoo Mattresses Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire Hazard; Violate Mandatory Standard for Mattress Flammability
PILLANI Recalls Nursing Pillows Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Suffocation; Violate Mandatory Standards for Nursing Pillows
DREO Recalls DR-HSH015 Space Heaters Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
Fashion Brand Apparel Recalls QZH.DUAO Pajama Sets Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Burn Hazard; Violate Mandatory Standards for Children's Sleepwear
NTI and HTP Brand Gas Boilers Recalled Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire, Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning and Impact Hazards; Manufactured by Ariston, formerly NTI Boilers
Bodum USA Recalls 5.9 Million French Press Coffee Makers with Replaceable Glass Carafes Due to Risk of Serious Burn Injury
HAIARA Power Banks Recalled Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire and Burn Hazards; Sold on Amazon.com by Mitrytech
Yinklev Recalls Jocoevol 6-Drawer Dressers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Tip-Over and Entrapment Hazards; Violate Mandatory Standard for Clothing Storage Units
Whatever Works Recalls Microwave Grills Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire Hazard
VQQQ Gas Patio Heaters Recalled Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire and Burn Hazards
Lithonia Lighting Recalls RSX Luminaires with Adjustable Tilt Arm Mountings Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Impact Hazard
Costway Recalls Convertible High Chairs Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment and Fall Hazards; Violate Mandatory Standard for High Chairs
BAMAMON Recalls LED Projecting Finger Light Toys Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Battery Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
FoShanShiNanHaiQuNuoAiTongZhuangShangHang Recalls CIYTI Light-Up Princess Costumes Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Battery Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
Loving Thyself Rocks Recalls Crystal Glass Cups Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Ingestion and Laceration Hazards
Papablic, of USA Recalls Convertible Bedside Sleepers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment, Suffocation and Fall Hazards; Violate Mandatory Standard for Play Yards
usOpal Recalls Xalirium Portable Bed Rails Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment and Asphyxiation; Violate Mandatory Standard for Adult Portable Bed Rails
3M Company Recalls Scotch(tm) Thermal Laminators Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire Hazard
Primark Recalls 101 Dalmatians Faux Leather Children's Coin Purses Due to Phthalate Levels and Risk of Ingestion
HatsanUSA Recalls Blitz Air Rifles Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Projectile Hazard
DR Power Equipment Recalls Pilot and Premier Trimmer Mowers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire and Burn Hazards
Romorgniz Recalls Six-Drawer Dressers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Tip-Over and Entrapment Hazards; Violate Mandatory Standard for Clothing Storage Units
ONTHEWEI Recalls Baby Bath Seats Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death to Children from Drowning; Violate Mandatory Standard for Infant Bath Seats
Snow Peak Recalls Propane Fireplace Inserts and Lava Rocks Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Burn and Fire Hazards
Pacearth Direct Recalls PACEARTH Swing Seats Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Fall Hazard
The Conqueror Recalls Avengers Medals Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Magnet Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Magnets
Decathlon America Recalls Van Rysel GRVL AF Bicycles Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Crash Hazard
Giant Bicycle Recalls LED-Light Keys Included with SureLock Bike Lock Sets Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Battery Ingestion; Violates Mandatory Standard for Consumer Products with Button Cell Batteries
Gobi Heat Recalls Rechargeable Hand Warmers Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Fire and Burn Hazards
Gazelle USA Recalls Urban Arrow Cargo Electric Bikes Due to Fall Hazard
Kobayashi Recalls Rechargeable Hand Warmers Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Fire and Burn Hazards
Agrish Reannounces and Expands Recall of Adult Portable Bed Rails Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment and Asphyxiation; Violate Mandatory Standard for Adult Portable Bed Rails; Additional Units Added
Designs Direct Recalls Cupcakes and Cashmere Brand Three-Light Floor Lamps, Due to Risk of Serious Injury from Fire and Burn Hazards
GBYMIUY Recalls Magnetic Stick Figure Toy Sets Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Magnet Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
YunHeng Recalls LandTale Bed Rails Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Entrapment and Asphyxiation; Violate Mandatory Standard for Adult Portable Bed Rails
LLK Trading Recalls Mochi Malrang Mystery Dumpling Toys Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Water Bead Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
Dollar Tree Stores Recalls Electric Balloon Pumps Due to Burn Hazard
Walmart Recalls Over 4.4 Million Expert Grill Brushes Due to Ingestion Hazard
Golden Resale Recalls Portable Camping Showers Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fire Hazard
ABC Trading Recalls Squishy Toys Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Water Bead Ingestion; Violate Mandatory Standard for Toys
If you believe you recently purchased a recalled product, stop using it, and check its recall notice (linked above for all products). Follow the notice's instructions, including where to return the product, how to get the product fixed, how to dispose of the product, how to receive a refund for the product, or what steps must be taken to receive a replacement product.
To file a complaint about a defective product that you feel is unsafe, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website.
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Original text here: https://www.ag.idaho.gov/newsroom/ag-labrador-shares-defective-and-hazardous-product-recall-list-for-october-2026/