Thursday - November 21, 2024
*Texas Editor Tipoffs Newsletter for Friday November 15, 2024 ( 60 items )  

'Missiles' taking out highway commuters
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Air Force Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (16th Air Force) issued the following news: Air Education and Training Command recently lost a family member when a loose tow hitch detached from a vehicle and became a deadly projectile. The object broke through the windshield of the trailing vehicle, instantly killing the young passenger. "This heartbreaking tragedy serves as a stark reminder how unsecured items and debris on the road can le  more

81st Training Wing Airmen build skills in creating communication capabilities
RANDOLPH AFB, Texas, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Air Force Air Education and Training Command issued the following news: U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Nicholas Mosher, 335th Training Squadron instructor, left, and Airman 1st Class Alex Van Voorhis, 338th Training Squadron student, center, instructs an Airman with the 81st Mission Support Group to construct a portable mast platform during a Bracer Forge scenario on Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, Oct. 25, 2024. The 338th TRS developed and executed the   more

A New Era in Airshows: 56 ARS introduces KC-46 demo team
RANDOLPH AFB, Texas, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Air Force Air Education and Training Command issued the following news: The 56th Air Refueling Squadron from Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma made history by debuting the world's first KC-46 Pegasus demo team at The Wings and Warriors Fly-In at San Marcos, Texas, Nov. 9, 2024. The team, representing the newest generation of air refueling capabilities, took center stage to showcase the KC-46's unique features and the evolution of the Air Force's tanker fle  more

Ala. U.S. Attorney: Court Sentences Texas Man to 172 Months Imprisonment in Interstate Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy
MOBILE, Alabama, Nov. 15 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Alabama issued the following news release: On November 13, 2024, United States District Court Judge Callie V. S. Grande sentenced Christopher Perales to 172 months imprisonment for his role in a multi-defendant interstate drug trafficking conspiracy. Documents filed with the court established that Christopher Perales, operating from the state of Texas, would regularly supply David Eric Crumpton in Mobile,   more

APHIS: USDA Provides Nearly $5M to Support Developing Antimicrobial Resistance Dashboard Tools
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service issued the following news release: The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced eight awards totaling nearly $5 million to maintain, expand, and utilize previously developed antimicrobial resistance (AMR) dashboard tools. These awards will help advance scientific knowledge around AMR through partnerships with Cornell University  more

Arrington Applauds House Passage of Pro-Energy Legislation
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, issued the following news release: Today, House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) applauded House passage of two pieces of pro-energy legislation. The HEATS Act (H.R. 7409) would remove the requirement for a federal drilling permit for geothermal activities on non-federal land. "For too long, American oil and gas production has been hamstrung by overregulation and extreme environmental activism," said Chairman Arrington. "Removing ba  more

Biden-Harris Administration's Inflation Reduction Act Tops $1 Billion in Clean Energy Investments to Nearly 7,000 American Farms and Rural Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued the following news release: Latest Investments Will Bring Clean Energy, Lower Costs and New Jobs through 1,147 Farm and Business Projects in 40 States U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA is funding new projects in nearly every state to lower costs, expand access to clean energy and strengthen American farms and small businesses. USDA is making the investments through the Rural Ene  more

CBP Announces Facial Biometric Test for Inbound Vehicle Travelers at Buffalo, Peace Bridge Port of Entry
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Customs and Border Protection issued the following news release: BUFFALO, N.Y. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced today the start of an innovative facial biometric test in select vehicle lanes at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry (POE) for travelers arriving in the United States. This enhanced process for international travel, known as Simplified Arrival-Vehicle Biometric, uses facial biometrics to automate the manua  more

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Releases Public Communication From American Association of Nurse Practitioners
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has released the following public communication dated Sept. 6, 2024, from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Austin, Texas: * * * To: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services United States Department of Health and Human Services Attention: CMS-1809-P P.O. Box 8010 Baltimore, MD 21244-1810 RE: Medicare and Medicaid Programs: Hospital Outpatient Prospective Paymen  more

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Releases Public Communication From Arrhythmia Intervention Society
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has released the following public communication dated Sept. 6, 2024, from the Arrhythmia Intervention Society, Austin, Texas: * * * To: Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Department of Health and Human Services Attention: CMS-1809-P P.O. Box 8010 Baltimore, MD 21244-8010 Re: Medicare and Medicaid Programs: Hospital Outpatient Prospe  more

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Releases Public Communication From Baylor Scott & White Health
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has released the following public communication dated Sept. 5, 2024, from Baylor Scott and White Health, Dallas, Texas: * * * To: Ms. Chiquita Brooks-LaSure Administrator Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Department of Health and Human Services Attention: CMS-1809-P P.O. Box 8013 Baltimore, MD 21244-8013 RE: Medicare and Medicaid Programs: Hospital Outpatient Prospec  more

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Releases Public Communication From Civitas Networks for Health
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has released the following public communication dated Sept. 9, 2024, from Civitas Networks for Health: * * * To: The Honorable Chiquita Brooks-LaSure Administrator Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Department of Health and Human Services ATTN: CMS-1807-P PO Box 8016 Baltimore, MD 21224-1816 RE: CMS-1807-P; Medicare and Medicaid Programs; CY 2025 Payment Policies unde  more

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Releases Public Communication From Innovation Health Services
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has released the following public communication on Sept. 10, 2024, from Terry D. Bauch, chief safety officer at Innovation Health Services: * * * Dear Administrator Brooks-LaSure: RE: CMS-1809-P: Medicare Program: Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems * * * I am a cardiologist with Innovation Health Services, a healthcare practic  more

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Releases Public Communication From Rehab Without Walls
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has released the following public communication dated Sept. 9, 2024, from Rehab Without Walls: * * * To: The Honorable Chiquita Brooks-LaSure Administrator Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, S.W. Washington, DC 20201 * * * Dear Administrator Brooks-LaSure, We appreciated the opportunity to provide comme  more

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Releases Public Communication From Texas Prostate Co-Founder Chopra
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has released the following public communication dated Sept. 6, 2024, from Rajiv Chopra, co-founder and practice administrator at Texas Prostate LLC: * * * To: Ms. Chiquita Brooks-LaSure Administrator Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Department of Health & Human Services ATTN: CMS-1807-P 7500 Security Blvd. Baltimore, MD 21244-1850 Re: [CMS-1807-P] CY2025 Payment Pol  more

CFPB Orders Global Tel Link to Pay $3 Million for Illegally Freezing and Draining Payments Accounts for People Who Are Incarcerated
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau issued the following news release: Today, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) took action against Global Tel Link Corporation (GTL) for illegally taking millions of dollars from more than a half million accounts and blocking money transfers to consumers who are incarcerated, which the consumers relied on for goods such as food, medicine, and clothing. The CFPB is ordering GTL and its subsidiaries to stop their illegal p  more

CPSC Issues Recall Alert Involving Celebration Girl's Summer Pajama Sets
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued the following recall alert on Nov. 14, 2024: * * * Name of Product: Celebration Girl's Summer Pajama Sets Hazard: The recalled children's pajamas violate the flammability regulations for children's sleepwear, posing a risk of burn injuries to children. Remedy: Refund Recall Date: November 14, 2024 Units: About 620 Consumer Contact: Petidoux toll-free at 888-381-7171 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email a  more

CPSC Issues Recall Alert Involving Cultivar Planter Boxes
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued the following recall alert on Nov. 14, 2024: * * * Name of Product: Cultivar Planter Boxes Hazard: The recalled planter box frame can break, posing an injury hazard. Remedy: Refund Recall Date: November 14, 2024 Units: About 7,400 Consumer Contact: Outdoor Essentials toll-free at 888-891-8934 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, email at customerservice@outdooressentialproducts.com, or online at www.outdooress  more

CPSC Issues Recall Alert Involving Woom Bicycles OFF 5, OFF AIR 5, OFF 6, OFF AIR 6, ORIGINAL 6
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued the following recall alert on Nov. 14, 2024: * * * Name of Product: woom bicycles OFF 5, OFF AIR 5, OFF 6, OFF AIR 6, and ORIGINAL 6 Hazard: The crank can break, due to fatigue fractures, causing the rider to lose control, posing fall and crash hazards. Remedy: Replace Recall Date: November 14, 2024 Units: About 2,500 Consumer Contact: woom Bikes USA toll-free at 855-966-6872 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, Monday through Frid  more

Crapo, Risch, Colleagues Ask Biden Admin to Reverse Course on Potentially Constraining U.S. Manufacturing, Development of Chemicals and Plastic Products
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, issued the following news release: Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Joe Biden asking his administration to reverse course on supporting constraints on manufacturing and the development of target lists that identify chemicals and plastic products to be banned around the world in a potential plastics treaty. "It is unfortunate the administration appears to ha  more

DOD Releases Final Nine Awards for Distributed Bioindustrial Manufacturing Program
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Defense issued the following news: The Department of Defense today announced the remaining nine awards to bioindustrial firms under the Distributed Bioindustrial Manufacturing Program (DBIMP). This announcement completes the first phase of DBIMP investment at 34 total awards worth over $60 million. The awardees include Amyris, based in Emeryville, California; Cauldron Molecules, based in in Australia and the United States; Checkerspot, based in Ala  more

DOE: Biden-Harris Administration Awards Over $17 Million to 61 Local and Territorial Governments to Support Community Clean Energy Projects
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The U.S. Department of Energy issued the following news on Nov. 14, 2024: * * * Grants from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Will Fund Clean Energy Infrastructure Projects in Communities Ranging from Energy Workforce Development Programs, Electric Vehicle Infrastructure, Recycling Projects * * * As part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced its next round of award recipients through the Energy Efficiency   more

DOT Releases Public Communication From Southwest Airlines
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Transportation has released the following public communication dated Nov. 7, 2024, from Southwest Airlines Co., Dallas, Texas. Here are excerpts: * * * BEFORE THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY WASHINGTON, D.C. In the matter of: FAMILY SEATING IN AIR TRANSPORTATION Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Docket No. DOT-OST-2024-0091 * * * COMMENTS OF SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. Southwest Airlines Co. ("Southwest" or "Company"  more

EPA Releases Public Communication From Center for Progressive Reform
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released the following public communication dated Nov. 6, 2024, from the Center for Progressive Reform: * * * To: Brandon Maples U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 1201 Elm Street, Suite 500, Dallas, TX 75270 Re: Docket # EPA-R06-OW-2024-0410 EPA Region 6 Draft Permits for Class VI Wells (Permit ID Nos. R6-TX-135-C6-0001, R6-TX-135-C6-0002, R6-TX-135-C6-0003) * * * The Center is a national non-profit researc  more

EPA Releases Public Communication From Clean Air Task Force
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released the following public communication dated Nov. 7, 2024, from Clean Air Task Force Inc., Boston, Massachusetts: * * * To: Mr. Brandon Maples U.S. EPA Region VI 1201 Elm Street, Suite 500 Dallas, TX 75270 RE: Comments of Clean Air Task Force on Class VI UIC Injection Well Carbon Storage Draft Permits for Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, LLC, Ector County (TX-135-C6-0001, TX-135-C6-0002, TX-135-C6-0003), Texas * * * Mr. Map  more

EPA Releases Public Communication From Commission Shift
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released the following public communication dated Nov. 6, 2024, from Commission Shift. Here are excerpts: * * * To: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 Attention: Brandon Maples, MC: WDDG 1201 Elm Street, Suite 500, Dallas, TX 75270 Maples.Brandon@epa.gov RE: Commission Shift's Comments on Three (3) Proposed Class VI Permits for Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, LLC Injection Wells near Penwell, Ector County, TX Docket   more

EPA Releases Public Communication From Ring Energy
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released the following public communication dated Nov. 6, 2024, from Jackson Walker LLP on behalf of Ring Energy Inc.: * * * To: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 Attention: Brandon Maples, MC: WDDG 1201 Elm Street, Suite 500, Dallas, TX 75270 Maples.Brandon@epa.gov RE: Docket # EPA-R06-OW-2024-0410--Public Comment Deadline Extension Confirmation; Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, LLC ("OLCV"), Brown Pelican Class VI U  more

EPA Releases Public Communication From Turtle Island Restoration Network
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released the following public communication dated Oct. 2, 2024, from Turtle Island Restoration Network, Forest Knolls, California: * * * To: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 Attention: Brandon Maples, MC: WDDG 1201 Elm Street, Suite 500, Dallas, TX 75270 Maples.Brandon@epa.gov Re: Docket # EPA-R06-OW-2024-0410--EPA Region 6's Underground Injection Well Permits for Three Wells in Ector County, TX * * * Dear   more

EPA U.S.-Mexico Border 2025 Program Hosted Binational Emergency Preparedness Event in Brownsville, Texas
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release: DALLAS, TEXAS (November 14, 2024) - The U.S.-Mexico Border 2025 Program hosted a two-day binational event in Brownsville on Nov. 13-14, 2024. The event was presented by the Border 2025 Program, Goal 4: Emergency Preparedness & Response lead agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Mexico's Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA), the National Coordination for   more

FBI Director Wray Issues Remarks at 9/11 Memorial & Museum Security Conference
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Justice's Federal Bureau of Investigation issued the following remarks on Nov. 13, 2024, by Director Christopher Wray at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum Security Conference: * * * This 9/11 Memorial & Museum means a great deal to me. I haven't spoken very much about this publicly, but a visit here helped shape some things for me, very early in my time as FBI Director. I was sworn in in August of 2017, just before the 16th anniversary of 9/11. And one   more

From Mexico to military excellence: The journey of Staff Sgt. Alejandra Ortega Mejia
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Air Force Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (16th Air Force) issued the following news: Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Staff Sgt. Alejandra Ortega Mejia's life took a dramatic turn before she was even a year old. At just nine months, her family fled Mexico after a series of catastrophic explosions rocked their hometown, forcing them to seek safety and new opportunities in Portland, Oregon. On April 22, 1992, a series of devastat  more

House Budget Committee Chairman Arrington Issues Statement on President Trump Department of Government Efficiency
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, chairman of the House Budget Committee, issued the following news release on Nov. 13, 2024: Yesterday, President Trump announced the formation of a new outside government entity named the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), spearheaded by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, dedicated to identifying wasteful spending and expunging it from federal agencies throughout the government. The DOGE's first task will be to conduct a complete audit   more

House Budget Committee Chairman Arrington, Rep. Grothman Laud Passage of Legislation to Eliminate Useless Reports
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, chairman of the House Budget Committee, issued the following news release: Yesterday, the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan H.R. 5301, the Eliminate Useless Reports Act of 2023, by a voice vote. House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-TX), joined by original cosponsor Representative Glenn Grothman (R-WI), released the following statements applauding House passage of H.R. 5301: Chairman Arrington's Statement on H.R. 5301: "We  more

How a Retooled Coast Guard Investigative Service is Improving Its Approach for Addressing Sexual Misconduct Cases
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Coast Guard issued the following news: By Kathy Murray, Senior Writer, MyCG With its gray sofa, matching stuffed armchairs, and a painting of the seaside hanging overhead, the room looks like somebody's den. A small table holds potted plants and a box of tissues, while sunlight coming through the window reflects off tan walls to give the place a cozy feel. The atmosphere is a marked contrast to the regular interview room next do  more

Justice Department Finds Conditions at Fulton County Jail in Georgia Violate the Constitution and Federal Law
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024: The Justice Department announced today its findings that conditions of confinement at the Fulton County Jail (the Jail) in Georgia violate the 8th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The department's report details its findings from a comprehensive investigation of the Jail, funded and operated   more

Laredo Sector Border Patrol participates in the annual Youth Appreciation Day
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Customs and Border Protection issued the following news release: LAREDO, Texas Laredo Sector Border Patrol participated in the annual Youth Appreciation Day on Nov. 14. This event provided an opportunity for students to better appreciate the service and challenges of law enforcement work as a Border Patrol agent. For Youth Appreciation Day, Chief Patrol Agent (CPA) Jesse D. Munoz hosted students to be 'Chief for a Day' to tour th  more

LCRA, Coastal Bend Radio Coalition Join Forces to Keep First Responders Connected Outside Their Service Areas
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 15 -- The Lower Colorado River Authority issued the following news release: * * * New collaboration enhances public safety along key evacuation routes from the Coastal Bend * * * The Coastal Bend Public Safety Radio Coalition, an alliance of South Texas first responders, is connecting to the Lower Colorado River Authority's radio system to enhance regional emergency communications, creating one of the largest public safety emergency communications networks in Texas. The e  more

New GAO Report on Gun Trafficking: 73% of Guns Recovered in Caribbean Can Be Traced Back to United States
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas, issued the following news release: Today, Rep. Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Rep. Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Sen. Majority Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led the release of a new report from the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) that examines the role of U.S  more

New GAO Report on Gun Trafficking: 73% of Guns Recovered in Caribbean Can Be Traced Back to United States
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, D-Florida, issued the following news release: Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) joined Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Sen. Majority Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led the release of a new report from   more

Next-Gen Dorms for Airmen
RANDOLPH AFB, Texas, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Air Force Air Education and Training Command issued the following news: Columbus Air Force Base recently celebrated the completion of a $6.25 million dollar renovation project to modernize unaccompanied dormitories for junior enlisted service members assigned to the 14th Flying Training Wing on November 8, 2024. The renovation was completed over a period of nine months and focused on quality-of-life improvements and amenities. "This project stands as  more

Pacific IAMD Center facilitates global relationships among Air Defenders from 11 Nations
CAMP SMITH, Hawaii, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Defense's Indo-Pacific Command issued the following news: EL PASO, Texas -- The Pacific Integrated Air and Missile Defense Center hosted its second annual Multilateral Subject Matter Expert Exchange and Defense Design Workshop on 21 thru 26, October 2024, at Fort Bliss located in El Paso, Texas. This groundbreaking event, supported by the 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, Pacific Air Forces, 32nd AAMDC, and the 11th Air Defense Art  more

Pressley, Haiti Caucus Condemn Violence in Haiti, Renew Calls for Biden Admin. to Halt Deportations
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news: Lawmakers' Call Follows Surge in Gang Violence, Attacks on Airlines in Haiti, and Sudden Dismissal of Haitian Prime Minister Today, House Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) issued the following statement on the recent violence and political instability in Haiti and called on the Biden Administration to halt all depo  more

Readout: FinCEN, Law Enforcement, and Financial Industry Representatives Meet to Discuss Collaborative Efforts to Combat Illicit Finance Related to Fentanyl Trafficking
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Crimes Enforcement Network issued the following readout of a meeting on Nov. 12, 2024, by law enforcement and financial industry representatives: * * * EL PASO, Texas -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), in partnership with Treasury's Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (CI), held the eighth event of its Promoting Regional Outreach to Educate Communities   more

REP. HILL OUTLINES PRINCIPLES TO MAKE BANKING GREAT AGAIN
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. French Hill, R-Arkansas, issued the following news release: Rep. French Hill (AR-02) today released a set of principles outlining his support for a growing, successful community banking industry. He is requesting comments on these principles by December 31, 2024, which will guide the development of his forthcoming legislative framework going into the 119th Congress. This will build on Rep. Hill's work to protect community banks through legislation like his Small LEND  more

Rep. Jackson Applauds President-Elect Trump Picks for His Administration
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, issued the following statement on Nov. 13, 2024: * * * Today, Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) released the following statement on President-elect Trump's picks for his administration. Jackson said: "It is time to shake the foundations of our nation's capital, and President-elect Trump has already begun doing so by tapping an incredibly talented team thus far to execute his national security agenda in pursuing peace through strength once a  more

Rep. Nehls, Comer, Higgins Press GAO to Assess U.S. Treasury Compliance With Law to Protect U.S. Shrimp Industry
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, issued the following news release on Nov. 12, 2024: Congressman Troy E. Nehls (R-TX-22), House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-KY-01), and Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA-03) are pressing the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to examine whether the U.S. Treasury Department is following legal requirements to oppose international economic assistance projects that threaten American industries, including the  more

Rep. Sylvia Garcia Calls On Congress to Pass American Dream & Promise Act to Protect Dreamers
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024: Today, Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) delivered a speech on the House floor, urging her colleagues to act quickly to pass the American Dream and Promise Act, which provides a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders, and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients. In her speech, Congresswoman Garcia highlighted the vital economic contribution  more

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Durbin Reflects On The Senate Judiciary Committee's Historic Achievements During The Biden Administration; Vows To Continue These Efforts During The Incoming Trump Administration
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- Sen. Richard J. Durbin, D-Illinois, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following news release: In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, highlighted the historic achievements of the Senate Judiciary Committee over the last four years. Thanks to the leadership of President Biden, Leader Schumer, and Chair Durbin, the Senate has confirmed 213 judges, and counting, to lifetime a  more

Sexual Assault Survivors Task Force Issues Report to Texas Legislature
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The Texas Sexual Assault Survivors Task Force issued a 43-page biennial report to the Texas Legislature in November 2024. Here are excerpts: * * * EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Office of the Governor's Sexual Assault Survivors' Task Force (SASTF) held its inaugural meeting on February 6, 2020, at the Texas State Capitol, launching an ambitious agenda to achieve the Legislature's vision set forth in House Bill 1590 (86R). Since February 2020, the SASTF has accomplished much of  more

Special Warfare Training Wing hosts cadets from 42 detachments for Air Force Special Warfare themed competition
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Air Force Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (16th Air Force) issued the following news: The Special Warfare Training Wing hosted 113 cadets from 42 detachments across the United States for an Air Force Special Warfare themed immersion and competition November 1-2, 2024. The Invitational gave an opportunity for AFROTC cadets to participate in AFSPECWAR-themed challenges and teambuilding events, designed to foster leadership, camaraderie   more

Special Warfare Training Wing hosts cadets from 42 detachments for Air Force Special Warfare themed competition
RANDOLPH AFB, Texas, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Air Force Air Education and Training Command issued the following news: The Special Warfare Training Wing hosted 113 cadets from 42 detachments across the United States for an Air Force Special Warfare themed immersion and competition November 1-2, 2024. The Invitational gave an opportunity for AFROTC cadets to participate in AFSPECWAR-themed challenges and teambuilding events, designed to foster leadership, camaraderie and increase awareness of AFSPECW  more

Steptoe, Center For Houston's Future Issues Report Entitled 'Federal and Texas Jurisdiction Over Hydrogen Pipeline Transportation: A Comprehensive Analysis and Pathways for Enhancement'
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Steptoe and Center For Houston's Future issued a 28-page report in October 2024 entitled "Federal and Texas Jurisdiction Over Hydrogen Pipeline Transportation: A Comprehensive Analysis and Pathways for Enhancement." The report was written by Michelle Castaline, Thomas Donadio, Lorrie Marcil and Dan Mullen. Here are excerpts * * * Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ... 3 I. Introduction ... 4 II. Regulation of Rates ... 6 A. It Is Unclear What Federal Regulatory  more

Texas A.G. Paxton Secures $83 Million Settlement for Texas, Holding Kroger Accountable for Role in Opioid Epidemic
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 15 -- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024: Attorney General Ken Paxton announced an $83 million statewide opioid settlement with Kroger to resolve claims by the State of Texas and its Political Subdivisions for practices that contributed to the opioid epidemic in Texas. The settlement is the latest in a series of agreements Attorney General Paxton has negotiated to hold the pharmaceutical industry accountable for worsening th  more

Texas Gov. Abbott Announces Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund Grant to IntelliEPI
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 15 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024: Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the first Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) grant of $4,120,000 has been extended to Intelligent Epitaxy Technology, Inc. ("IntelliEPI") for their new 30,000-square-foot wafer production facility in Allen, Texas, which is expected to create more than $41 million in capital investment and nearly triple the company's annual wafer production. G  more

Texas Gov. Abbott Announces The Colony Designated Music Friendly Texas Certified Community
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 15 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release on Nov. 14, 2024: Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the City of The Colony has been designated by the Texas Music Office (TMO) as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community after completing the multi-step certification process. The Music Friendly Texas program, the first in the nation since introduced by TMO in 2016, seeks to foster music business-related economic development and job creation in Texas  more

Texas U.S. Attorney: Beaumont Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl
BEAUMONT, Texas, Nov. 15 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas issued the following news release: A Beaumont man has been sentenced to federal prison for possessing fentanyl for distribution in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs. Harry Francis Lowenthal, 66, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on November 12, 2024  more

Texas U.S. Attorney: Gregg County Woman Sentenced for Distributing Deadly Fentanyl
TYLER, Texas, Nov. 15 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas issued the following news release: A Longview woman has been sentenced to federal prison for distributing fentanyl resulting in death in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs. Rebecca Diane Merkel, 43, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle. Acc  more

Texas U.S. Attorney: Houston Man Charged With Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISIS
HOUSTON, Texas, Nov. 14 -- The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas issued the following news release: A 28-year-old man has been indicted for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani and FBI Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. Anas Said is now in custody and set for a detention hearing at 2 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judg  more

U.S. Access Board Releases Public Communication From Accessibility Professionals Association
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Access Board has released the following public communication on Nov. 3, 2024, from the Accessibility Professionals Association, Austin, Texas: * * * The Accessibility Professionals Association (APA) is a national organization of professionals with the objective of ensuring accessibility in the built environment1. Our mission is to enhance professional development; hold our members to a high standard of professionalism and ethics; facilitate consistency in the a  more

U.S. Access Board Releases Public Communication From Tesla
WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 -- The U.S. Access Board has released the following public communication dated Nov. 4, 2024, from Tesla, Palo Alto, California: * * * Comments of Tesla, Inc. to the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board's Proposed Rule in Rulemaking ATBCB-2024-0001, Accessibility Guidelines for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Tesla, Inc. ("Tesla") appreciates the opportunity to submit comments in response to the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance B  more