Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) released a statement after President Donald Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law. Senator Budd led this legislation with Senator Katie Britt (R-AL). This was the first bill President Trump signed since he returned to office.
The law is named after 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley who was murdered by an illegal alien on the University of Georgia campus last year. That illegal alien had been previously arrested for theft and shoplifting but was released.
The law requires U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest illegal aliens who commit an assault on law enforcement, theft, burglary, larceny, or shoplifting offenses and would mandate that these aliens are detained until they are removed from the United States.
The bill was led in the House by Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA).
Sen. Budd said in a statement:
“The American people sent a clear message on November 5th: It is time to return to law and order. President Trump pledged to make American safe again, and his signing of the Laken Riley Act is another promise kept. I am grateful to have led this legislation with Senator Katie Britt, John Fetterman, and Majority Leader John Thune.”
Senator Britt said:
“Today, I was honored to join President Trump as he signed the Laken Riley Act into law. This landmark bill is historic for many reasons, including the fact this was the first bill he signed into law as the 47th President. Alongside President Trump, Republican majorities in Congress are turning promises made into promises kept. I’m incredibly proud of the bipartisan, lifesaving legislation we were able to achieve to protect American families and honor the life and legacy of Laken Riley. This is an incredible first step toward making America safe again, and I will continue fighting to strengthen border security and interior immigration enforcement. I’d like to thank Congressman Mike Collins for his steadfast leadership to get this bill across the finish line, as well as Senator Ted Budd, Majority Leader John Thune, and Senators John Fetterman, Ruben Gallego, Joni Ernst, and John Cornyn for their partnership in making today a reality. Together, we are delivering real results for the American people.”
Department of Defense Spokesman John Ullyot provided the following readout:
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held an introductory call today with Israeli Minister of Defense Israel Katz to reaffirm the unbreakable bond between the United States and Israel. Secretary Hegseth emphasized that under President Trump’s leadership, the United States fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself, and that Israel is a model ally for the region. The Secretary also reiterated that the United States is committed to deepening the bilateral security relationship to enhance Israel’s ability to address regional threats and ensure that Israel has the capabilities it needs. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact moving forward.
WASHINGTON—According to news reports, President Donald J. Trump is expected to sign an executive order to illegally funnel federal dollars to private schools and strip public school students of vital federal funding.
The following statement can be attributed to NEA President Becky Pringle:
“Every student deservesfully-fundedneighborhood public schools that give them a sense of belonging and prepare them with the lessons and life skills they need to follow their dreams and reach their full potential. Instead of stealing taxpayer money to fund private schools, we should focus on public schools—where 90% of children, and 95% of children with disabilities, in America, attend—not take desperately needed funds away from them. If we are serious about doing what is best for students, let’s reduce class sizes to give our students more one-on-one attention and increase salaries to address the teacher and staff shortages. The bottom line is vouchers have been a catastrophic failure everywhere they have been tried.
“President Trump is using his Project 2025 playbook to privatize education because he knows vouchers have repeatedly been a failure in Congress. Parents, educators, and voters know what students need—and vouchers are never the solution. In fact, when voters have a say about vouchers, they have been soundly rejected—time and again—at the ballot box. Just this past November, voters in Colorado, Kentucky and Nebraska overwhelmingly said no to vouchers. We know vouchers take money away from neighborhood public schools. We know students with disabilities depend on these same public schools. We know that voucher programs leave out wide swaths of students, especially Black and brown students as well as those living in rural areas with no or limited access to private schools. And we know this stunt is meaningless without the consent of Congress. So, we are putting all anti-public education politicians on notice: If you try to come for our students, for our schools, and for our communities, NEA members will mobilize and will defeat vouchers again.”
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The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professionalemployeeorganization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.
Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
WASHINGTON – Less than 24 hours after President Trump announced a wide-reaching federal funding freeze, halting nearly all federal grants and loans to support New Hampshire communities, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan today detailed how the President’s illegal and unconstitutional action is already harming Granite Staters during a press conference in the U.S. Capitol.
Click here to see Senator Hassan’s full remarks on President Trump’s dangerous, illegal funding freeze and see an excerpt below:
“This action will hurt people all across the country. President Trump’s order defunds police departments, even as law enforcement officers are trying to keep us safe. It imperils disaster relief as fires rage. It halts cancer research as we strive for cures, and it shuts down shelters for homeless veterans in the cold of winter.
“New Hampshire law enforcement agencies have told my office that the freeze of federal funding may force them to rescind job offers, meaning fewer cops on the streets. A New Hampshire organization that helps domestic violence survivors also told my office that it is now locked out of federal funding systems, which will significantly impact the crisis centers it runs for women.
“Let’s be clear: this money is not the President’s to freeze or take away. It was appropriated by Congress, and it belongs to the American people. To my Republican colleagues, I suggest that you have to decide what bridge it is, is too far… We cannot let America become a place where our leaders hold back the people’s funds by day and purge the people’s watchdogs by night.”
Moments ago, a federal judge temporarily blocked the freeze from proceeding until Monday, though the Trump Administration continues to pursue it. This illegal funding freeze has severe and broad-reaching impacts for services across New Hampshire. Programs impacted by this funding freeze include those that help hire police officers, support veterans, operate domestic violence shelters, provide access to health care, and nearly every federal program. Approximately 30% of New Hampshire’s state budget comes from federal funding.
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Tim Scott (R-SC) led 24 Republican colleagues in introducing the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), bicameral legislation to expand education freedom and opportunity for students. Specifically, it provides a charitable donation incentive for individuals and businesses to fund scholarship awards for students to cover expenses related to K-12 public and private education. U.S. Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) introduced the companion legislation in the U.S House of Representatives.
“Parents want to see their child succeed. Giving them the ability to make decisions over their child’s education puts that child’s needs first,” said Dr. Cassidy. “More freedom empowers parents and allows American children to thrive in school.”
“When you give parents a choice, you give kids a better chance at achieving their dreams,” said Senator Scott. “By empowering families with more education resources and freedom, this bill will unlock opportunities that have been out of reach for students across America who deserve every chance to succeed and a schooling system that fosters their potential.”
“Giving students a brighter future, no matter their background or address, is critical to move American K-12 education forward,” said Representative Smith. “We must empower parents with more options, acknowledging they have the final say in what educational setting is best for their children. ECCA will benefit public, private, and homeschool students and increase the quality of education in our country. I thank Rep. Owens and Sen. Cassidy for championing this legislation alongside me.”
The Educational Choice for Children Act:
Provides $10 billion in annual tax credits to be made available to taxpayers. Allotment of these credits to individuals would be administered by the Treasury Department.
Sets a base amount for each state and then distributes the credits on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Uses a limited government approach with respect to federalism, thus avoiding mandates on states, localities, and school districts.
Includes provisions that govern Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), as SGOs are given the ability to determine the individual amount of scholarship awards.
An estimated two million students in any elementary or secondary education setting, including homeschool, are eligible to receive a scholarship. Eligible use of scholarships awards includes tuition, fees, book supplies, and equipment for the enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary school.
Cassidy and Scott was joined by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Cornyn (R-TX), John Thune (R-SD), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Kennedy (R-LA), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Jim Justice (R-WV), Jim Risch (R-ID), John Barrasso (R-WY), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Todd Young (R-IN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Katie Britt (R-AL), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Roger Wicker (R-MS) in introducing the bill.
The Educational Choice for Children Act has received the endorsement from former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos; former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Dr. Mick Zais; former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr; Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley; LA Kids Matter; Louisiana Family Forum; Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors; ACE Scholarships Louisiana Founder Eddie Rispone; ACE Scholarships; Invest in Education Coalition; ACSI Children’s Education Fund; America First Policy Institute; American Association of Christian Schools; American Federation for Children (AFC); American Principles Project; Americans for Tax Reform; Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI); Black Mothers Forum; U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB); Catholic Education Partners; CatholicVote; Center for Education Reform; Children’s Scholarship Fund; Club for Growth; Coalition for Jewish Values; Agudath Israel of America; Orthodox Union Advocacy; Republican Jewish Coalition; Concerned Women for America; Council for American Private Education (CAPE); Defense of Freedom Institute (DFI); Family Policy Alliance; Foundation for Excellence in Education (ExcelinEd); Freedom Foundation; Heartland Institute; Heritage Action for America; Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA); Independent Women’s Forum; Mountain States Policy Center; Parental Rights Foundation; Parents Defending Education Action; Partners in Mission; Project 21; Protect the First; 60Plus Association; Former Virginia & Florida Secretary of Education Gerard Robinson; several other conservative leaders; and more than 150 national and state groups.
“School choice empowers parents, regardless of their zip code, to choose the education that best fits their child’s need,” said Anthony de Nicola, Chairman of Invest in Education Coalition. “I applaud Senator Cassidy for reintroducing the Educational Choice for Children Act in the Senate. Now is our time to pass this critical legislation that would help millions of students access an education of their choosing so they can achieve their God-given potential.”
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) questioned Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominee for Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), at his confirmation hearing before the Senate Finance Committee.
Senator Cassidy: Mr. Kennedy, President Trump has sworn to protect Medicare. Republicans are exploring reforms to Medicaid that could help pay for Trump administration priorities. With this context, what will you do about dual eligibles?
Mr. Kennedy: About—
Senator Cassidy: Dual-eligibles.
Mr. Kennedy: Well, dual-eligibles are not right now served very well under the system. Those are people who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare. And I, you know, I suppose my answer to that is to make sure that the programs are consolidated, that they are integrated, and that care is integrated. I look forward to working with you, Dr. Cassidy, on making sure that we take good care of people who are dual-eligible.
Senator Cassidy: How would we—how do you propose that we integrate those programs? Does Medicare pay more, Medicare pay less, Medicaid pay more, Medicaid pay less? How do we do that?
Mr. Kennedy: I’m not exactly sure because I’m not in there. I mean, it is difficult to integrate them because Medicaid—Medicare is under fee for service, paid for by employer taxes. Medicaid is fully paid for federal government and it’s not fee for service. So, it’s—I do not know the answer to that. I look forward to exploring options with you.
Senator Cassidy: Republicans again are looking at ways to potentially reform Medicaid to help, you know, pay for President Trump’s priorities, but to improve outcomes. What thoughts do you have regarding Medicaid reform?
Mr. Kennedy: Well, Medicaid is not working for Americans, and it’s specifically not working for the target population. Most Americans like myself, I’m on Medicare Advantage, and I’m very happy with it. Most people who are on Medicaid are not happy. The premiums are too high, the deductibles are too high. The networks are narrow. The best doctors will not accept it at the best hospitals. And particularly, Medicaid was originally designed for a target population, the poorest Americans. It’s now been dramatically expanded. And the irony of the expansion is that the poorest Americans are now being robbed. Their services have dramatically decreased even though we’ve increased the price of Medicare by 60 percent over the last 4 years. The target population is being robbed. We need to figure out other options.
Senator Cassidy: With that said, obviously you’ve thought about that and I appreciate that. What reforms do you recommend, again, that would improve services I suppose, but also make it more cost efficient?
Mr. Kennedy: Well, President Trump has given me the charge of improving quality of care and lowering the price of care for all Americans. There are many things that we can do, I mean, what we want to, the ultimate outcome, I think, is to increase transparency, increase accountability, and to transition to a value-based system rather than a fee-based system—service-based system.
Senator Cassidy. On Medicaid in particular, can you just kind of take those kind of general principles and apply it to the Medicaid program?
Mr. Kennedy: You know I, listen, I think that there are many, many options with telemedicine, with AI right now. And, you know there’s a—including direct primary care systems, we are seeing that movement grow across the country. There’s a—one of the largest providers—
Senator Cassidy: So, so knowing, going back to Medicaid, though. And speaking of these specific advances, how would you, what reforms are you proposing, with these ideas vis a vis Medicaid?
Mr. Kennedy: Well, I don’t have a broad proposal for dismantling the program—
Senator Cassidy: I’m not saying—of course not saying that.
Mr. Kennedy: I think what we need to do is we need to experiment with pilot programs in each state. We need to keep our eye on the ultimate goal, which is value-based care, which is transparency, accountability, access.
Senator Cassidy: And one more thing, going back to Medicare, you mentioned you’re an MA. You mentioned earlier the Medicare fee for service. Do you have any kind of thoughts as to, whether or not patients on fee for service should move into MA or how should we handle that?
Mr. Kennedy: Whether patients—
Senator Cassidy: Who are on Medicare fee for service.
Mr. Kennedy: For traditional Medicare?
Senator Cassidy: Yes.
Mr. Kennedy: That’s their choice right now. I mean, we have I think 32 million Americans, or 30 million Americans on Medicare—on traditional Medicare, and then another 34, or thirty—34 on Medicare Advantage, roughly half and half. And I think more people would rather be on Medicare Advantage because it offers very good services, but people can’t afford it. It’s much more expensive. Oh, and answer to your first question, there, you know, are all kinds of exciting things that we can be doing, including cooperatives, which President Trump has supported, including health savings accounts, which President Trump has supported. All of these things to make people more accountable for their own health.
Senator Cassidy: And so we bring the cooperatives and the health savings accounts into Medicare and Medicaid?
Mr. Kennedy: Exactly. We try to—try to increase those, the use of those and to direct primary care to continue to transition into a value-based program that is private. Americans don’t, by and large, do not like the Affordable Care Act. People are on it. They don’t like Medicaid. They like Medicare. And they like private insurance. We need to listen to what people, they would prefer to be on private insurance. Most Americans, if they can afford to be, will be on private insurance. We need to figure out ways to improve care, particularly for elderly, for veterans, for the poor in this country, and Medicaid, the current model is not doing that. I would ask, you know, any of the Democrats who are chuckling just now. Do you think all that money, the $900 billion that we’re sending to Medicaid every year has made Americans healthy? Do we think it’s working for anybody? Are the premiums low enough?
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
January 29, 2025
Letter calls on State Department to swiftly restart program providing basic services to refugees, including Afghan allies who supported U.S. troops
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee; along with U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee; Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, and Border Safety; and U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, today urged U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to immediately restore vital services for refugees already in the United States. The letter comes after the State Department abruptly halted services for refugees last week.
“This unprecedented order threatens to deprive refugees already in the United States of the vital assistance known as Reception and Placement (R&P) services, which help them during their first three months in the United States as they rebuild their lives here,” wrote the lawmakers.
Since the start of Fiscal Year 2025, more than 32,000 refugees have arrived through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), thousands of whom remain eligible for R&P services. These refugees were forced to flee their home countries in order to escape war or persecution and were deemed eligible to resettle in the United States after undergoing thorough vetting. This is on top of the approximately 10,000 Afghan nationals who are in the U.S. on Special Immigrant Visas (SIV), which they received after risking their lives to assist U.S. troops and U.S. government efforts in Afghanistan; these SIVs also remain eligible for such benefits.
The stop work orders undermine legal obligations that the Department has entered into through its contracts with U.S.-based and intergovernmental organizations, increasing newly-arrived refugees’ vulnerability to homelessness and food insecurity at a time when they still have no lifeline for support. The R&P program covers basic needs like rent, food, and clothes in the first few months after arrival, providing core services for refugees who often resettle with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. Barring R&P services, cause undue and unnecessary suffering and hardship, breaking a promise we made to refugees and Afghan allies when we approved them for resettlement in America.
“We also call on you to do everything in your power to swiftly resume refugee processing and admissions—and restore this life-saving humanitarian program that advances U.S. security, foreign policy work, and diplomatic interests,” the lawmakers concluded.
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
January 29, 2025
In a speech on the Senate floor, Durbin listed the critical programs—VAWA funding, veterans’ support, early education programs—that were thrown into chaos by the OMB memo that put ahold on federal funding
WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor last night, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) denounced the Trump Administration’s decision to issue an Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo to “temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of trillions of dollars of Federal financial assistance,” which caused mass confusion about the funding and operations of hundreds of government-funded programs ranging from Medicaid, to Head Start, to Violence Against Women Act grants. Shortly before the federal funding freeze began, U.S. District Court Judge Loren L. Alikhan, who was confirmed under Durbin’s tenure as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, temporarily blocked the move by the Trump Administration.
In his remarks, Durbin emphasized that the Trump Administration does not have the authority to institute a federal funding freeze as Congress holds the constitutional power of the purse.
“He [Acting OMB Director Matthew Vaeth] sent out a letter, or memo, that basically called for a temporary pause in government spending. By what authority did he do that? I don’t know. I’ve been in Congress for a few years. I’ve never quite seen anyone with an ‘Acting’ before their name have this much authority and power, but he had a lot. He has taken to himself the decision-making that affects families all over the United States, including in my State of Illinois,” Durbin said.
“But he [Vaeth] basically paused federal spending… so that these recipients could answer the basic questions as to whether they’re loyal to his point of view. He referred to those who didn’t agree with him as Marxists, as in Karl Marx… Who is this guy? How does he have this much authority? How is he able to say things like that that are so blatantly political?” Durbin said.
The memo caused immediate panic across the country as states’ Medicaid portals shut down and Head Start programs worried that they would not be open the following day to provide critical child care. The Trump Administration failed, when asked repeatedly, to provide clear guidance about what programs would be safe from being defunded.
“This poorly conceptualized, poorly communicated policy has created mass confusion in my state and across the nation. Worst yet, it has endangered [the] health, safety, [and] welfare of Americans across the country. The proposed freeze mandates that the government ‘temporarily pause’ the disbursement of key funds… We’re going to temporarily pause reimbursement to local units of government and charities, for example, while we decide whether they’re living up to the standards of Donald Trump in terms of his political values,” Durbin continued.
Durbin read out some of the programs that were thrown into chaos by the OMB memo, beginning with Head Start and domestic violence survivor programs.
“For many families, Head Start is day care. Head Start is Pre-K. Head Start is a chance for kids in tough family circumstances to have a fighting chance. Of course, the Head Start agencies need to get their federal funds to keep the lights on, to feed the kids, to make sure they can heat the buildings in the winter,” Durbin said.
“The other one is violence against women. The groups are calling us in Illinois. They call me because the Senate Judiciary Committee, which I serve on, authored this bill years ago. A Senator from Delaware at the time, Joe Biden, introduced this legislation. What it boils down to, is if you’re a victim of domestic violence, there are grants available to provide safe and secure places for you to stay, rather than [keeping you] in these horrible, violent situations at home. What are we going to do with Mr. Vaeth’s idea to put this on temporary pause?” Durbin said.
Durbin continued providing examples of threatened federal funding, including natural disaster relief, veterans benefits, and small business loans. Durbin pointed to the double standard of pausing federal aid to small businesses when major corporations, including Elon Musk’s company, Tesla, has received support from the federal government to stave off bankruptcy.
“Natural disaster relief speaks for itself. You think of the poor folks in California trying to recover from their wildfires. Think of the flooding, hurricanes, all the other events that take place. There are people who need a helping hand,” Durbin said.
“So many aspects of business rely on just a helping hand to get started. If you think loans to businesses are for little businesses, keep in mind that in 2009, Elon Musk came to the Obama Administration and asked for a loan so that his Tesla car company wouldn’t go into bankruptcy. There are a lot of smaller businesses just as desperate to get a helping hand,” Durbin said.
Durbin concluded his remarks by criticizing the Trump Administration for claiming to support American families while attempting to tear away the basic services and programming that Americans rely on. Durbin underscored that President Trump’s own team could not answer basic questions about the policy he attempted to institute.
“If your goal is to ‘Make America Great Again,’ why start by cutting these basic services for families and deserving people across this country?” Durbin said. “We’re better than that. I’m proud of a nation that cares for people that need a helping hand. I’m not ashamed to say that.”
“Even the President’s own Press Secretary a few minutes ago was unable to even answer the questions about what was going on with this OMB Director. You know why? Because this move is nothing more than a power grab designed to target the most vulnerable and disguise it as a way ‘to analyze government spending,’” Durbin said. “The President is blatantly violating the law by holding up these vital funds across America.”
“This measure [temporary pause by the federal judge] is only delaying chaos and uncertainty if it’s President Trump’s determined effort to make sure that this happens. We will not stand idly by while the President plays fast and loose with our nation’s laws and the American peoples’ lives and livelihoods. We can have fiscal responsibility, we could have a budget we’re proud of, but this action taken by a fellow last night, somewhere in the bowels of a building here in Washington, is hurting people all across America. You can’t help American families be great if you don’t give them a fighting chance,” Durbin concluded.
Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dominic LeBlanc, met virtually with Canada’s premiers to discuss the Canada-U.S. relationship. As a follow-up to last week’s call, the Prime Minister reiterated the importance of lifting barriers to trade between provinces and territories and looked forward to the outcomes of the urgent meeting of the Committee on Internal Trade in Toronto, Ontario, this Friday. The Prime Minister and the premiers offered updates on the implementation of Canada’s border plan and complementary provincial and territorial actions.
The Prime Minister and the premiers discussed the ongoing threat of U.S. tariffs against Canadian goods, which will make life less affordable for Canadians and Americans alike and weaken economic growth in both countries. Defending our valued trade relationship remains the objective of all First Ministers.
The Prime Minister and the premiers voiced their commitment to a strong response if tariffs are imposed. They discussed options for federal, provincial, and territorial governments to mitigate the impacts on Canadian workers, families, and businesses.
The leaders agreed to continue their outreach to American officials at the federal, state, and local levels to raise awareness of the mutually beneficial partnership between Canada and the United States. In particular, First Ministers noted that bilateral trade in energy and critical minerals is hardwired into the Canadian and U.S. economies, and that Canada is the most reliable source of the critical minerals that support the U.S. defence and technology sectors. They also underscored the importance of the energy sector to our bilateral relationship, noting the collaborative efforts of governments and industry in supporting both Canadian and U.S. interests and bolstering the security posture of both countries.
The Prime Minister and the premiers recommitted to continue working together to stand up for Canadian consumers, jobs, and businesses. First Ministers agreed to reconvene next week, or earlier if required, to discuss next steps in Canada’s engagement with the U.S.
Governor Kathy Hochul today unveiled her plan to offer free community college tuition for adult learners ages 25 to 55 in New York State. The Governor highlighted her proposal at Onondaga Community College to showcase the region’s readiness for Micron to support New York State as a global hub for Semiconductor manufacturing and R&D. The plan, part of Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State, furthers her commitment to creating more workforce development opportunities to ensure every New Yorker has the opportunity to pursue a degree or credential for jobs in high-demand fields.
“When my dad got a college education, our whole family got a shot at a better life – and I want New Yorkers to have that opportunity,” Governor Hochul said. “Under my plan, every New Yorker will have the chance to pursue a free associate degree at SUNY and CUNY community colleges to help fill the in-demand jobs of tomorrow.”
New York State Opportunity Promise
Governor Hochul is steadfast in her commitment to making higher education more affordable and building the workforce that New York needs. The FY 2025 Enacted Budget included an historic expansion of the Tuition Assistance Program to help more New Yorkers cover the cost of college. Additionally, the Governor has continued to expand workforce development, apprenticeship, and microcredential programs to prepare New Yorkers for in-demand jobs. The Governor’s free community college proposal, NYS Opportunity Promise, is the next level of this commitment by making an associate degree more affordable and obtainable.
Across New York State, there are more than four million working-age adults who do not have a college degree or credential. The Governor’s proposal would cover tuition, fees, and books at any SUNY or CUNY community college for these adult learners who have never earned a degree and are pursuing an associate degree in a high demand field, including nursing, teaching, technology, and engineering.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “SUNY’s community colleges are incredible engines of upward mobility, and Governor Hochul’s Free Community College plan will literally change the lives of New Yorkers seeking a degree in a high-demand field. SUNY campuses like Onondaga Community College are leading the way in meeting the needs of our adult learners and regional employers.”
New York as a National Workforce Hub
Upstate New York has been designated as a National Workforce Hub to dramatically expand domestic memory chip manufacturing in the United States. Federal and state incentives played a key role in securing Micron’s $100 billion investment in the White Pine Industrial Park in the town of Clay in Onondaga County – one of the largest economic development projects in U.S. history.
In total, the project is expected to create nearly 50,000 jobs statewide, including an average of 5,600 construction jobs per year paying federal prevailing wage. When complete, the complex will include the nation’s largest clean room space at approximately 2.4 million square feet, grow domestic semiconductor manufacturing, and enhance our national security by expanding the United States’ chipmaking capacity.
Additionally, Governor Hochul announced earlier this month that GlobalFoundries, a semiconductor manufacturer in Saratoga County, will invest $575 million to build a new center for advanced packaging and testing, along with $186 million for research and development at its Malta facility over the next decade.
State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. joined as Onondaga Community College President Warren Hilton updated the Governor on the campus’s readiness to expand enrollment in academic programs tied to in-demand jobs. Included in the tour was the construction site for the $15 million, 5,000 square-foot Micron Simulation Lab at the campus, which is critical to help train students. The clean room is expected to be fully operational during the summer of 2026.
Under my plan, every New Yorker will have the chance to pursue a free associate degree at SUNY and CUNY community colleges to help fill the in-demand jobs of tomorrow.”
Governor Kathy Hochul
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “No one is doing more to prepare New York State for the future than Governor Hochul, and Onondaga Community College is a key partner in that effort. Innovative, cutting-edge industries are growing in New York State because our dynamic workforce is being well-equipped with the skills needed to succeed in the good-paying jobs we are helping to create. Governor Hochul’s proposal to provide free community college tuition to students pursuing high-demand occupations in strategic industries will help to further promote sustainable economic opportunity for all.”
New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “A knowledgeable workforce is essential to securing a strong future for New York State and offering no-cost higher education will open doors to in-demand careers. I thank Governor Hochul for prioritizing workforce development initiatives that are transforming the lives of New York families.”
Onondaga Community College President Hilton said, “During the last five years, our faculty has worked tirelessly to create academic programs aimed at educating and preparing students for valuable and rewarding careers in industries where workers are needed most. Our staff has done an outstanding job supporting those students during their time on campus. We are grateful to all Central New York employers who see the value in our students, the education they receive here, and their willingness to give them the opportunity to be successful in the workforce.”
Since Micron announced it was building the largest semiconductor facility in Clay, NY, Onondaga Community College has seen significant changes in enrollment in workforce development programs leading to direct jobs in the industry, as well as programs preparing New Yorkers for indirect job opportunities, including:
Electromechanical Technology, up 168 percent
Architectural Design, up 114 percent
Construction Management, up 96 percent
Fire Protection Technology, up 58 percent
Supply Chain Management, up 57 percent
Surgical Technology, up 26 percent
Paramedic, up 21 percent
Cybersecurity, up 17 percent
Mechanical Technology, up 13 percent
Physical Therapist Assistant, up 6 percent
Computer Science, up 4 percent
Onondaga Community College has many paths to electromechanical technology, which includes 112 students this year. Several students have already been offered jobs after graduation. Sixteen are expected to graduate this May with an associate degree, while 30 students are on track to complete the one-year credential program, which typically leads to an associate degree. The campus also has more than 300 students taking related courses in Onondaga County high schools.
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that gun violence in communities participating in the state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative declined to its lowest level on record last year. New York State began tracking this data in communities outside of New York City in 2006. Shooting incidents with injury declined 28 percent in 2024 compared to 2023, and the number of individuals injured declined 25 percent, with 238 fewer people harmed by gunfire. The Governor’s Fiscal Year 26 Executive Budget includes $370 million to continue the state’s multifaceted approach to reducing shootings and saving lives. That funding supports local and state law enforcement initiatives, youth employment programs, and nonprofit organizations that serve and support individuals and families and strengthen communities.
“New Yorkers are safer today than they were yesterday – and that’s because of the tireless efforts of our communities, law enforcement, and partners,” Governor Hochul said. “Gun violence has dropped by 28 percent, meaning 238 fewer people wounded by gunfire in our neighborhoods. But we’re not stopping here. My administration is doubling down on its commitment to reducing violence, supporting our youth, and strengthening our communities – ensuring that all New Yorkers can live in safety and peace.”
The 28 percent decline reflects 588 shooting incidents with injury reported last year by the 28 police departments participating in GIVE compared to 817 in 2023, and the number of shooting victims decreased by 25 percent (725 v. 963). When the state first began tracking this data in 2006, 17 police departments received funding to reduce shootings and violent crime: Those agencies reported 896 shooting incidents with injury and 1,007 individuals who sustained gunshot wounds. GIVE jurisdictions account for roughly 90 percent of violent crimes involving firearms and 85 percent of violent crime reported outside New York City.
The following police departments reported particularly significant declines in shooting incidents with injury in 2024 compared to 2023: Niagara, 52 percent; Rochester, 34 percent; Syracuse, 30 percent; and Yonkers, 47 percent. Shooting incidents with injury, shooting victims and shooting homicide data for each of the 28 GIVE agencies are available on the State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) website. In addition to the collective decrease in gun violence in GIVE communities, the New York City Police Department reported a seven percent (903 v. 974) decrease in shooting incidents in 2024 compared to 2023.
DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “Our partnerships with local law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations through the GIVE initiative, SNUG street outreach program, Project RISE and our Crime Analysis Centers are helping to make a real difference in people’s lives and increasing safety in our communities. We applaud Governor Hochul’s leadership on public safety and her unprecedented support of these critical programs.”
Preliminary index crime reported by police agencies outside of New York City showed an eight percent decrease from January through September 2024 vs. 2023, the most current data available. There are seven index crime categories that are used to gauge overall crime trends: four violent (murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault) and three property (burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft). Data reported by the NYPD show a three percent reduction in crime in the five boroughs.
The $370 million investment to reduce and prevent gun violence and strengthen communities disproportionately impacted by crime includes, but is not limited to, the following programs and initiatives administered by DCJS:
$50 million through the Law Enforcement Technology grant program, which provides funding so police departments and sheriffs’ offices can purchase new equipment and technology to modernize their operations and more effectively solve and prevent crime.
$36 million for GIVE, which funds the 28 police departments and district attorneys’ offices, probation departments, and sheriffs’ offices in 21 counties outside of New York City.
$21 million for the SNUG Street Outreach Program, which operates in 14 communities across the state: Albany, the Bronx, Buffalo, Hempstead, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Niagara Falls, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Syracuse, Troy, Utica, Wyandanch, and Yonkers. The program uses a public health approach to address gun violence by identifying the source, interrupting transmission, and treating individuals, families and communities affected by the violence.
$18 million in continued support for the state’s unique, nationally recognized Crime Analysis Center Network, and $13 million in new funding to establish the New York State Crime Analysis and Joint Special Operations Command Headquarters, a strategic information, technical assistance and training hub for 11 Centers in the state’s network, and enhance existing partnerships and expand information sharing with the New York State Intelligence Center operated by the State Police, the locally run Nassau County Lead Development Center, and the State’s Joint Security Operations Center, which focuses on protecting the State from cyber threats.
$20 million for Project RISE (Restore, Invest, Sustain, Empower) in 10 communities to support mentoring, mental health services, restorative practices, trust building, employment and education support and youth development activities, among other programs and services that address trauma resulting from long-term exposure to violence, build resilience and strengthen youth, families and neighborhoods.
The New York State Police, the State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, and the state Office of Victim Services also will receive funding through that $370 million allocation.
That funding does not include other public safety initiatives outlined in the FY26 Executive Budget Briefing Book, including $35 million for the next round of the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grants to increase safety and security of organizations at risk of hate crimes or attacks because of their ideology, beliefs, or mission; or investments that expand support for victims and survivors of crime, including doubling funding for rape crisis centers to $12.8 million.
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that COY DAVID MILLER (“MILLER”),age 49, of Youngsville, LA, was sentenced on January 15, 2025, for Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2).
According to court documents, on October 17, 2023, MILLER was searched by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and special agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, at the Louis Armstrong International Airport upon his return from Cancun, Mexico. Federal agents found MILLER in possession of images and videos of pre-pubescent child pornography.
Senior United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced MILLER to 46 months imprisonment, 10 years of supervised released, a $10,000 fine and registration as a sex offender.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania, and a resident of Florida, Puerto Rico, were sentenced in federal court for their convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and related charges, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The defendants were among 17 individuals from Lawrence County, Pennsylvania; Puerto Rico; and Youngstown, Ohio, indicted in March 2024 for violating federal narcotics, firearms, and racketeering laws by conspiring to distribute cocaine throughout Western Pennsylvania and Youngstown (read the Indictment news release here).
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentences on Jean Sanchez Tulla, 38, of Puerto Rico, and Glenn Samuels, 33, of New Castle, sentencing Tulla to nine years of imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and interstate travel or transmission in aid of racketeering, and Samuels to 37 months of prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine.
According to information presented to the Court, Tulla was a leading member of the organized drug trafficking group that shipped kilogram quantities of cocaine from Puerto Rico, often mailing drug parcels through the U.S. Postal Service to co-conspirators responsible for selling the cocaine in Western Pennsylvania; Youngstown, Ohio; and elsewhere. Specifically, Tulla was responsible for possessing with intent to distribute and distributing between five and 15 kilograms of cocaine on behalf of and during the course of the conspiracy. He also traveled from Puerto Rico to Pennsylvania—including at least 15 trips to Pittsburgh from 2023 to 2024—and elsewhere to facilitate and promote the drug trafficking enterprise, including to receive drug proceeds from other members of the organization.
Upon receipt of the shipped cocaine, leaders of the drug trafficking organization in Western Pennsylvania would distribute smaller quantities of the drugs to multiple co-conspirators, including Samuels, in order to maximize profits. Those co-conspirators then distributed the cocaine in New Castle, Ellwood City, and elsewhere in Lawrence County. At least 100 grams of cocaine was attributable to Samuels, who was found during the investigation to frequent the New Castle residence of the drug trafficking organization’s local leader for short durations, often multiple times a day.
Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Lawrence County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Drug Task Force, and United States Postal Inspection Service, as well as the New Castle Police Department, Ellwood City Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and United States Department of Agriculture for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Tulla and Samuels.
Lawrence County is one of six Western Pennsylvania counties officially designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area by the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy. The county received its HIDTA designation in July 2022, allowing it to receive dedicated federal resources to coordinate federal, state, and local governments in fighting drug trafficking and abuse.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JESUS MALDONADO-LOPEZ (“MALDONADO-LOPEZ”), age 38, a citizen of Mexico, pled guilty on January 16, 2025, to reentry of removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(b)(1).
According to court documents, MALDONADO-LOPEZ, an illegal alien with a prior felony conviction for transporting illegal aliens within the United States, was found in the New Orleans area on or around July 29, 2024. He had previously been deported to Mexico on May 29, 2008.
MALDONADO-LOPEZ faces a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey has set the sentencing for April 15, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.
Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame Exhibit at Reynolds Museum in Wetaskiwin, Alberta.
The Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame was created in 1951 to recognize outstanding contributions in shaping the progress and prosperity of Alberta agriculture. Since 1951, 144 men and women have been named to the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame for their innovation and unwavering dedication to the ag industry.
On Jan. 29, the 41st induction ceremony took place at the Reynolds Museum in Wetaskiwin, honouring three outstanding Albertans. In addition to the induction, a permanent exhibit at the Reynolds Museum in Wetaskiwin has been opened, which will showcase both new and former inductees, as well as the rich history of agriculture in Alberta.
“I am honoured to welcome three new inductees to the Agriculture Hall of Fame. They have helped to raise awareness of the vital role of agriculture and were essential to the early development of our province. This year, I am thrilled to open the Ag Hall of Fame exhibit, a permanent space to celebrate the legacy and innovations that shape Alberta’s agricultural industry.”
The Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame inducts up to three Albertans every two years. The 2024 inductees are being honoured for their advocacy, leadership and pioneering spirit in advancing the province’s agriculture and food industry. The inductees are:
Dr. Kee Jim, from Okotoks, for his innovative, data-driven approach to feedlot cattle health, effective disease protocols and strengthening Alberta’s cattle industry.
Blair Roth, from Lethbridge, for his visionary role in developing pulse crops as a dryland farming option, shaping early agronomics, variety selection and marketing strategies.
Manfred Kanehl (posthumous induction), from Parkland County, for his outstanding contributions and advancements to animal welfare and food safety within the Canadian egg industry and for pioneering the Start Clean – Stay Clean on-farm food safety program launched nationally and still in use today.
Permanent exhibit: Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame and Century Farm and Ranch Award
Alberta’s government has proudly opened an exhibit to showcase the province’s proud ag history and honour the men and women who made agriculture innovation and growth possible. The permanent feature includes the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame and Century Farm and Ranch Award exhibit.
The exhibit will be permanently housed in the grain elevator at the Reynolds Museum and will preserve and celebrate the stories, milestones and legacy of Alberta’s agricultural history. The exhibit includes:
Two interactive displays that provide access to biographies, photos and videos of Hall of Fame inductees.
A large-scale display that includes banners and wall mounts combining text, imagery and design elements that showcase the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame and Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Award programs.
“I’m excited that the Reynolds Museum is celebrating Alberta’s agricultural history by showcasing the Albertans who shaped it and spurred the sector’s innovation and growth. I hope all Albertans have the chance to visit this exhibit and learn the inspiring stories of these outstanding individuals.”
Quick facts: Ag Hall of Fame
The Agriculture Hall of Fame is the Department of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation’s oldest and most prestigious award.
The inductees were nominated by their peers through an open process and reviewed by a panel of judges from a cross-section of members from Alberta’s agriculture industry.
Quick facts: Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame and Century Farm and Ranch Award exhibit
The Ministries of Agriculture and Irrigation and Arts, Culture and Status of Women collaborated on the design and decision to install the Ag Hall of Fame at the Reynolds Museum.
The Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Award, established in 1993, recognizes families who have continuously owned and operated the same land for at least 100 years.
Alberta’s oldest farms and ranches trace back to 1884.
Premier David Eby is tasking a new cabinet committee with co-ordinating the whole-of-government approach to protect B.C.’s workers, businesses and economy against ongoing tariff threats from the United States.
Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, will chair the committee, which will act as a day-to-day war room, co-ordinating actions across government to fight back on behalf of British Columbians and grow the province’s economy.
“The proposed U.S. tariffs are a direct attack on B.C.’s families,” Premier Eby said. “This threat isn’t going away anytime soon – not while this president is in power. Every minister has an important role to play in fighting back. Minister Kahlon brings deep experience in government to the table and is uniquely positioned to co-ordinate this work across government ministries.”
The B.C. government has stepped up with a three-point strategy to fight back and protect British Columbians: respond to U.S. tariffs with tough counter-actions and outreach to American decision-makers; strengthen B.C.’s economy by expediting projects and supporting industry and workers; and diversify trade markets for products so British Columbia is less reliant on U.S. markets and customers.
“We didn’t ask for this fight, but B.C. will not be bullied,” Kahlon said. “My colleagues and I will work shoulder to shoulder with workers, business and community leaders to meet this moment.”
The new committee will ensure that B.C.’s response is fast, tough and fully focused on protecting British Columbians, while strengthening, growing and diversifying the province’s economy for the long-term.
Members of the new cabinet committee are:
Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs (chair)
Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation
Brenda Bailey, Minister of Finance
Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions
Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food
Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship
Rick Glumac, Minister of State for Trade
Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests
Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals
Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today announced the U.S. District Court for Northern District of Illinois issued an order of default judgment against five offshore entities and three individuals, finding them liable for fraud and other violations of the Commodity Exchange Act and CFTC regulations in connection with a global retail binary options fraud that victimized U.S. residents. The defendants executed their unlawful scheme through internet websites using fictitious trade names such as BigOption, BinaryBook, and BinaryOnline. The following foreign entities and Israeli citizens were found liable for, and enjoined from, fraud and other violations:
Yukom Communications Ltd., incorporated in Israel Linkopia Mauritius Ltd., incorporated in Mauritius Wirestech Limited d/b/a BigOption, incorporated in the Marshall Islands WSB Investments Ltd. d/b/a BinaryBook, incorporated in Anguilla, the United Kingdom, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Gibraltar Zolarex Ltd. d/b/a BinaryOnline, incorporated in the Marshall Islands Yossi Herzog Lee Elbaz Shalom Peretz
The order finds the defendants engaged in fraud and other violations and orders them to pay, jointly and severally, $112.9 million in restitution and a $338.7 million civil monetary penalty. The order also permanently enjoins them from engaging in conduct that violates the CEA, as charged, and permanently bans them from registering with the CFTC and from trading in any CFTC-regulated markets. The order stems from the CFTC’s complaint, filed Aug. 12, 2019, charging defendants with fraud and other violations. [See CFTC Press Release No. 7995-19] Case Background The order finds that from March 26, 2014, until the filing of the complaint on Aug. 12, 2019, the defendants made numerous fraudulent misrepresentations to customers on websites and through email and telephone solicitations, telling customers that binary option transactions were profitable, when in fact the substantial majority of their customers lost money, and individual brokers misrepresented their names, financial expertise, and physical location. The order finds the defendants misappropriated customer funds and made additional misrepresentations to thwart customers’ attempts to withdraw their funds, including failing to disclose material information about so-called “bonuses” and “risk-free trades.” The defendants also manipulated their trading platform’s risk settings to limit or prevent customers from being “in the money” with winning trades. Previous Settlement The court previously entered a consent order against another defendant involved in the fraud, Yakov Cohen, which resolved similar allegations against Cohen and required that he disgorge $7 million in ill-gotten gains received from his participation in the fraudulent binary options scheme. [See CFTC Press Release 8962-24] Parallel Criminal Actions On Aug. 7, 2019, Elbaz was convicted by a federal jury of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud in violation of criminal statutes based upon substantially the same underlying facts as alleged in the CFTC complaint, she was sentenced to 20 years in prison, and ordered to pay restitution of $28 million in United States v. Elbaz, No. 18-cr-00157 (D. Md.) Cohen pled guilty to a charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud predicated on the same conduct charged in CFTC’s complaint. He was sentenced to 5.5 years in prison on Aug.15, 2024 and ordered to pay $7 million in restitution on January 22, 2025, in United States v. Yakov Cohen, No. 19 cr 77-1 PX (D. Md.). The CFTC thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland for their assistance in this matter. The Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this case are Heather Dasso, Elizabeth N. Pendleton, Elizabeth Streit, Scott R. Williamson, and Robert T. Howell. * * * * * * * Fraud Advisory The CFTC’s Office of Customer Education and Outreach and the SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy have issued a joint investor alert to warn about fraudulent schemes involving binary options and their trading platforms. The alert warns customers the perpetrators of these unlawful schemes may refuse to credit customer accounts, deny fund reimbursement, commit identity theft, and manipulate software to generate losing trades. The CFTC also urges the public to verify a company’s registration at NFA BASIC before committing funds. Customers should be wary of providing funds to any unregistered entity. Suspicious activities or information, such as possible violations of commodity trading laws, can be reported to the Division of Enforcement via a toll-free hotline 866-FON-CFTC (866-366-2382) or file a tip or complaint online or contact the CFTC Whistleblower Office. Whistleblowers may be eligible to receive between 10 and 30 percent of the monetary sanctions collected, paid from the CFTC Customer Protection Fund financed through monetary sanctions paid to the CFTC by violators of the CEA.
Did you know that NASA conducts ground-breaking research in space on materials like metals, foams, and crystals? This research could lead to next-generation technology that both enables deep-space exploration and benefits humanity. Here are six studies scientists have conducted on the International Space Station that could have profound implications for future space travel and also improve products widely used on Earth:
This Oct. 29, 2018, image from the HiRISE camera on NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter captures geysers of gas and dust that occur in springtime in the South Polar region of Mars. As the Sun rises higher in the sky, the thick coating of carbon dioxide ice that accumulated over the winter begins to warm and then turn to vapor. Sunlight penetrates through the transparent ice and is absorbed at the base of the ice layer. The gas that forms because of the warming escapes through weaknesses in the ice and erupts in the form of geysers. HiRISE, or the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment, is a powerful camera that takes pictures covering vast areas of Martian terrain while being able to see features as small as a kitchen table. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/University of Arizona
Lee esta nota de prensa en español aquí. Studies of rock and dust from asteroid Bennu delivered to Earth by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security–Regolith Explorer) spacecraft have revealed molecules that, on our planet, are key to life, as well as a history of saltwater that could have served as the “broth” for these compounds to interact and combine. The findings do not show evidence for life itself, but they do suggest the conditions necessary for the emergence of life were widespread across the early solar system, increasing the odds life could have formed on other planets and moons. “NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission already is rewriting the textbook on what we understand about the beginnings of our solar system,” said Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “Asteroids provide a time capsule into our home planet’s history, and Bennu’s samples are pivotal in our understanding of what ingredients in our solar system existed before life started on Earth.” In research papers published Wednesday in the journals Nature and Nature Astronomy, scientists from NASA and other institutions shared results of the first in-depth analyses of the minerals and molecules in the Bennu samples, which OSIRIS-REx delivered to Earth in 2023. Detailed in the Nature Astronomy paper, among the most compelling detections were amino acids – 14 of the 20 that life on Earth uses to make proteins – and all five nucleobases that life on Earth uses to store and transmit genetic instructions in more complex terrestrial biomolecules, such as DNA and RNA, including how to arrange amino acids into proteins. Scientists also described exceptionally high abundances of ammonia in the Bennu samples. Ammonia is important to biology because it can react with formaldehyde, which also was detected in the samples, to form complex molecules, such as amino acids – given the right conditions. When amino acids link up into long chains, they make proteins, which go on to power nearly every biological function. These building blocks for life detected in the Bennu samples have been found before in extraterrestrial rocks. However, identifying them in a pristine sample collected in space supports the idea that objects that formed far from the Sun could have been an important source of the raw precursor ingredients for life throughout the solar system. “The clues we’re looking for are so minuscule and so easily destroyed or altered from exposure to Earth’s environment,” said Danny Glavin, a senior sample scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and co-lead author of the Nature Astronomy paper. “That’s why some of these new discoveries would not be possible without a sample-return mission, meticulous contamination-control measures, and careful curation and storage of this precious material from Bennu.” While Glavin’s team analyzed the Bennu samples for hints of life-related compounds, their colleagues, led by Tim McCoy, curator of meteorites at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington, and Sara Russell, cosmic mineralogist at the Natural History Museum in London, looked for clues to the environment these molecules would have formed. Reporting in the journal Nature, scientists further describe evidence of an ancient environment well-suited to kickstart the chemistry of life. Ranging from calcite to halite and sylvite, scientists identified traces of 11 minerals in the Bennu sample that form as water containing dissolved salts evaporates over long periods of time, leaving behind the salts as solid crystals. Similar brines have been detected or suggested across the solar system, including at the dwarf planet Ceres and Saturn’s moon Enceladus. Although scientists have previously detected several evaporites in meteorites that fall to Earth’s surface, they have never seen a complete set that preserves an evaporation process that could have lasted thousands of years or more. Some minerals found in Bennu, such as trona, were discovered for the first time in extraterrestrial samples. “These papers really go hand in hand in trying to explain how life’s ingredients actually came together to make what we see on this aqueously altered asteroid,” said McCoy. For all the answers the Bennu sample has provided, several questions remain. Many amino acids can be created in two mirror-image versions, like a pair of left and right hands. Life on Earth almost exclusively produces the left-handed variety, but the Bennu samples contain an equal mixture of both. This means that on early Earth, amino acids may have started out in an equal mixture, as well. The reason life “turned left” instead of right remains a mystery. “OSIRIS-REx has been a highly successful mission,” said Jason Dworkin, OSIRIS-REx project scientist at NASA Goddard and co-lead author on the Nature Astronomy paper. “Data from OSIRIS-REx adds major brushstrokes to a picture of a solar system teeming with the potential for life. Why we, so far, only see life on Earth and not elsewhere, that’s the truly tantalizing question.” NASA Goddard provided overall mission management, systems engineering, and the safety and mission assurance for OSIRIS-REx. Dante Lauretta of the University of Arizona, Tucson, is the principal investigator. The university leads the science team and the mission’s science observation planning and data processing. Lockheed Martin Space in Littleton, Colorado, built the spacecraft and provided flight operations. NASA Goddard and KinetX Aerospace were responsible for navigating the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft. Curation for OSIRIS-REx takes place at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. International partnerships on this mission include the OSIRIS-REx Laser Altimeter instrument from CSA (Canadian Space Agency) and asteroid sample science collaboration with JAXA’s (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) Hayabusa2 mission. OSIRIS-REx is the third mission in NASA’s New Frontiers Program, managed by the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, for the agency’s Science Mission Directorate in Washington. For more information on the OSIRIS-REx mission, visit: https://www.nasa.gov/osiris-rex Karen Fox / Molly WasserHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600karen.c.fox@nasa.gov / molly.l.wasser@nasa.gov Rani GranGoddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland301-286-2483rani.c.gran@nasa.gov
CALGARY, Alberta, Jan. 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pulse Seismic Inc. (TSX:PSD) (OTCQX:PLSDF) (“Pulse” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the signing of a $10.0 million seismic data licensing sales contract for 3D seismic data located in West Central Alberta. Pulse’s data library provides extensive seismic coverage critical for today’s data focused exploration and development companies throughout Western Canada.
The Company is also pleased to provide a preliminary update on recent licensing revenue. Since October 1, 2024, the Company has licensed $21.7 million of data. Of this amount, $5.6 million was licensed in the fourth quarter of 2024, bringing expected total revenue for 2024 to $23.4 million. For 2025, including the deal announced today, total licensing revenue is $16.1 million.
“As owners of Canada’s largest licensable seismic data library, we value our client relationships and the role our subsurface data plays as a strategic risk mitigation tool for the energy industry,” stated Neal Coleman, the Company’s President and CEO. “We are very pleased to report this material data licensing agreement, helping our clients maximize the value of their projects, while also generating returns for Pulse. Significant sales such as this, produce material incremental free cashflow for the Company,” Coleman continued.
Pulse returned $9.5 million of capital to shareholders in 2024 through dividends and share buybacks. In the second quarter of 2024 the Company increased its regular quarterly dividend by 9%, to an annualized dividend of $0.06 per share. Additionally, a special dividend of $0.05 per share was paid in the third quarter of 2024. Dividends of $0.10875 per common share were declared and paid in 2024, representing a total of $5.6 million. The Company purchased and cancelled approximately 1.8 million shares under its normal course issuer bid in 2024, contributing $3.9 million of the $9.5 million in total capital returned in the year.
These figures are preliminary and have not yet been audited or reviewed by our auditors. The Company will release its 2024 annual and fourth quarter financial results on February 13, 2025, after markets close.
Significant quarterly and annual fluctuations in data sales are intrinsic to the seismic data library business. The Company remains focused on maintaining a strong balance sheet, a low-cost structure and providing excellent customer care.
CORPORATE PROFILE
Pulse is a market leader in the acquisition, marketing and licensing of 2D and 3D seismic data to the western Canadian energy sector. Pulse owns the largest licensable seismic data library in Canada, currently consisting of approximately 65,310 square kilometres of 3D seismic and 829,207 kilometres of 2D seismic. The library extensively covers the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin where most of Canada’s oil and natural gas exploration and development occur.
For further information, please contact:
Neal Coleman, President and CEO Or Pamela Wicks, VP Finance and CFO
Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
WASHINGTON – In her latest fight to prioritize taxpayers in Washington, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is addressing growing concerns about mismanagement within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is supposed to help feed hungry families, but sloppy state administration of the program is costing taxpayers nearly $1 billion per month.
As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Ernst is introducing the Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act to strengthen the integrity of this important program by identifying all errors, recollecting overpayments, and holding states with high payment inaccuracies accountable.
“Bureaucratic blunders are leaving billions of dollars on the table as Americans are starved to keep up with the ever-growing $36 trillion debt,” said Ernst. “SNAP plays an essential role in helping feed families, that’s why we need to strengthen its integrity by holding states accountable for growing error rates, implementing a zero-tolerance policy, and snapping back overpayments.”
Congressman Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) is introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
“The American people elected President Trump and Republican majorities in Congress to cut waste from government and get our budget under control. With over $36 trillion in debt and counting, we have no time to waste to pinpoint every possible area to save taxpayer dollars and hold bureaucrats accountable,” said Feenstra. “One sector that needs serious reform is the SNAP program. Every month, taxpayers shell out about $1 billion in SNAP overpayments, which is absolutely ridiculous and must change. That’s why Senator Ernst and I introduced legislation to strengthen the integrity of the SNAP program by establishing a zero-tolerance policy on benefit overpayments. As members of our respective DOGE caucuses, we will continue to fight for fiscal sanity, government efficiency, and a balanced budget.”
Most SNAP payment errors are made in the form of “overpayments,” or benefits paid either to ineligible recipients or to eligible households above what is allowed by law. In 2023, there were approximately $10.73 billion in overpayments. However, the true cost is unknown because errors totaling $54 or less are excluded.
Ernst’s Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act could reduce spending by nearly $91 billion over the next decade by:
Directing states to recollect SNAP overpayments, so each household only receives exactly what they are eligible for;
Requiring states to pay back what they owe;
Holding states accountable for payment error rates to incentivize better management of funds; and
Improving the accuracy of SNAP payment error rates by requiring all errors to be reported.
Background:
As chair of the Senate DOGE Caucus, Senator Ernst unveiled a $2 trillion plan, featuring the Snap Back Inaccurate SNAP Payments Act, to cut down federal spending, save taxpayer dollars, and downsize the government – in addition to her telework report that exposed an absent federal workforce.
Her playbook has already racked up a win with the announcement of the sale of the Wilbur J. Cohen building, a 1.2 million square foot monument to waste, where just 72 of 3,341 workers were showing up to work.
In September 2023, Ernst highlighted that instead of giving billions in benefits to those who don’t qualify or doubling payments for others already being served, we should give a seat at the table to families who do qualify but are going without while they wait in line.
Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso
“Lee knows that innovation, not government intervention, is the best solution to lower prices, to grow the economy, and to protect our environment…He is the right nominee to lead the EPA.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, today spoke on the Senate floor calling for the quick confirmation of Lee Zeldin, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee for Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.
Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:
“I strongly support Congressman Lee Zeldin to be the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
“We are blessed in America with enormous natural resources.
“I support using our resources responsibly. I support sensible environmental stewardship. Americans deserve clean water and clean air. They deserve good jobs and economic strength.
“Environmental protection and economic growth should go hand-in-hand. They are not mutually exclusive.
“As head of the EPA, Lee will return the agency to its original missionof protecting America’s air, water, and land – without, as he puts it, ‘suffocating the economy.’
“Nearly two weeks ago, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works held a hearing on Lee. As the former Chairman of the Committee, I was honored to introduce him.
“Lee is highly qualified. His support is bipartisan.
“Lee is a lifelong public servant. He is a seasoned lawyer with a sharp legal mind. He has over 20 years of military service. He currently serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserves.
“Lee also served 8 years in Congress. As a representative from New York,he worked to strengthen our economy and protect his district’s unique ecosystem. He worked across party lines to do so.
“For the last four years, the so-called experts at the Environmental Protection Agency went on a reckless regulatory rampage.
“They saddled American families and businesses with higher costs and heavy-handed restrictions. They bowed to climate extremism and ignored common sense.
“In 2024, the EPA introduced one of the most expensive regulations in American history – the electric vehicle mandate.
“The EV Mandate was left-wing lunacy at its worst.
“According to the Competitive Enterprise Institute, its total cost of compliance is $760 billion. To put that in perspective, the cost of this one regulation is nearly equal to the price tag of 8 years of regulations under President Barack Obama.
“The EV mandate would also cost hundreds of thousands of jobs.
“Americans rejected the EV Mandate and other costly climate policies in November. President Trump revoked the EV Mandate on his first day in office.
“Here in the Senate, repealing the Biden EV subsidies is one of my top priorities. These subsidies are estimated to cost more than $393 billion.
“Americans should not have their tax dollars pay for vehicles thatmost Americans don’t want, can’t afford, and don’t work for them or their families. Americans should not be dependent on Communist China like we are today with electric vehicles.
“Lee Zeldin will continue President Trump’s mission to roll back punishing, political regulations.
“The EPA does important work in states and local communities.
“Lee will be a fantastic partner to my home state of Wyoming.
“He will not impose one-size-fits-all mandates on American consumers and businesses. Instead, he will cut red tape. We will see a new wave of creativity and innovation.
“Lee knows that innovation, not government intervention, is the best solution to lower prices, to grow the economy, and to protect our environment.
“Many Americans are confident that Lee will right the ship and restore balance at the EPA.
“One of those organizations is the National Association of Clean Water Agencies.
“In a letter to the Committee, the Association said that Lee has ‘shown a willingness to engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders to address pressing issues.’
“Lee also impressed our colleagues here in the Senate. This is what my Democrat colleague from Arizona said about Lee: ‘He’s a qualified candidate for this job.’
“I share America’s confidence in Lee.
“Through three hours of tough questions, Lee Zeldin proved he is well-qualified.
“He showed he is committed to strong environmental protection and energy production.
“He is the right nominee to lead the EPA. The Senate should confirm him quickly.”
A key theme among the discussions was the need for increased investment in digital infrastructure and capacity building, and for the establishment of regulatory frameworks related to e-commerce. Members highlighted the challenges facing developing economies and least developed countries, such as limited broadband connectivity, digital skills gaps and outdated legislation.
Members stressed the need for resilient information and communications technology (ICT) and payment systems that enable e-commerce transactions. Members also underscored the importance of digital rules, such as the Information Technology Agreement and the e-commerce moratorium, in facilitating international investment and digital connectivity.
The role of the WTO was identified as crucial in providing opportunities for discussions and collaboration among members and external stakeholders. Members proposed organizing dedicated matchmaking sessions to connect developing economies and LDCs with available support. Additionally, members expressed interest in partnering with other international organizations such as the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, International Trade Centre and the International Telecommunication Union to provide technical assistance and capacity-building programmes.
Members also saw value in organizing regional peer-to-peer learning events and thematic workshops involving external stakeholders as part of the work programme on the digital divide.
Members shared information on national efforts to close the digital divide. Initiatives include support for regional studies on the digital economy, and online systems to reduce business operational costs and to foster inclusive digital ecosystems. Other examples include programmes focused on developing digital skills and digital infrastructure, efforts to expand internet access in underserved regions, promoting secure internet access and digital literacy, improving internet and mobile networks, and developing digital literacy and skills among women and vulnerable groups.
Ambassador Richard Brown of Jamaica, the facilitator of the e-commerce work programme, said: “The matter of availability and access to digital infrastructure is very necessary, but not sufficient, to create the fundamental conditions for e-commerce to grow. We know there are other factors that we need to contemplate in that conversation.” The next dedicated discussion on 17 February will address the legal and regulatory frameworks needed, with a focus on consumer protection, privacy and data protection, as well as cyber security, he noted.
A golden bandicoot (_Isoodon auratus_)Colleen Sims/Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, CC BY-SA
Before species go extinct, their populations often shrink and become isolated. Healthy populations tend to have a large gene pool with many genetic variants circulating. But the path to extinction erodes genetic diversity, because a species’ gene pool shrinks as the population declines. Losing genetic diversity limits the ability of populations to adapt to threats such as disease and climate change.
So, what is the state of genetic diversity in animals, plants, fungi and algae worldwide? And how could focusing on this crucial level of biodiversity help build resilience in the face of global change? We explore these questions in our new study, published today in Nature.
Our team of 57 scientists from 20 countries trawled through more than 80,000 scientific articles across three decades to summarise evidence of genetic change in populations in 141 countries.
Alarmingly, we found genetic diversity is being lost globally across many species, especially birds and mammals. This loss was most severe in studies reporting changes in habitat, new diseases, natural disasters, and human activities such as hunting or logging.
But there’s hope. Our study suggests conservation strategies can help maintain or even increase genetic diversity.
Isolated populations of the endangered Scandinavian arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) have become inbred. Jonatan Pie, Unsplash
What is genetic diversity and why does it matter?
At the core of every cell lies a copy of the instruction manual for living things. This is the genetic code, made up of DNA molecules. But its sequence varies enormously, separating a moth from a tree from a bacterium. Even within a species, we see distinct genetic differences between individuals. These genetic differences contribute to differences in their traits, which is why we get individuals who are taller or shorter, faster or slower, bolder or more cautious.
This genetic diversity stems from mutations. Often, these mutations are not helpful. But at times, they can enable populations to adapt to change.
For example, golden kelp (Ecklonia radiata) likes colder water. But in a population, some individuals will have mutations suited for warm water. When a devastating marine heatwave hit the West Australian coast in 2011, individuals with warm-water mutations were more likely to survive and reproduce. This genetic diversity enabled the kelp population to adapt to the warmer conditions.
This is why genetic diversity is so important – it gives species more resilience in a rapidly changing world. This priority has been recognised in Australia’s Strategy for Nature, and in goals and targets discussed at the United Nations biodiversity summit COP16.
How can we safeguard or restore genetic diversity for threatened species?
To answer this question, we used a technique called meta-analysis to look for patterns. From more than 80,000 published articles, we identified 882 studies which measured changes in genetic diversity over time. These studies came from right around the globe and across the entire “tree of life”.
They show there are many ways to conserve genetic diversity. Here are five promising strategies to help keep species resilient.
Scientists from 20 countries came together to read thousands of papers and collect data on genetic diversity during in-person and online workshops. Robyn Shaw
Action 1: Adding individuals
Adding individuals to an existing population is known as supplementation. Our research found supplementation was the only action linked to a significant increase in genetic diversity, especially in birds.
Supplementation can help reduce the harmful effects of inbreeding, which is common in small, isolated populations. For example, conservationists working to safeguard New Zealand’s South Island robins (Petroica australis) moved female birds between isolated islands. The offspring of parents from different islands had stronger immune systems, higher survival rates, and improved reproductive health compared to their inbred counterparts.
Supplementation is key for boosting genetic diversity, improving population health and building resilience.
Action 2: Population control
Doing the opposite – removing individuals – can actually improve outcomes for the population as a whole in some circumstances, by, for instance, reducing competition.
But genetic diversity results varied a lot in studies using population control. So how can this strategy be used effectively?
In one case, conservationists in the United States used population control of coaster brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) in a hatchery to prevent any single family from breeding too much. This meant multiple genetic lineages were maintained, increasing genetic diversity.
Action 3: Restoration
Ecosystem restoration can include planting trees, rehabilitating wetlands or restoring natural patterns of fire and water. We found genetic diversity was often maintained over time when ecological restoration was used.
Restoration efforts, alongside supplementation, are important to the survival of the greater prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus cupido), which had lost much habitat. Researchers report restoring and expanding suitable habitat is proving crucial to sustain genetic diversity and achieving long-term recovery.
Found in the US and Canada, greater prairie-chickens are known for their courtship dance. Danita Delimont/Shutterstock
Action 4: Control of other species
Feral, pest or overabundant species can outcompete, eat, or graze on species under threat. Controlling these species was linked to maintenance of genetic diversity in the studies we analysed overall.
For example, control of red fox numbers helped the Arctic fox(Vulpes lagopu) recover in Sweden. The technique reduced competition over resources such as food while new foxes from Norway were added to the wild population. Inbreeding was reduced, and survival improved.
Action 5: Conservation introductions and reintroductions
Establishing new populations at new sites is known as a conservation introduction, while a reintroduction means restoring populations where they previously existed.
We found mixed results for genetic diversity when these actions were reported. So, what factors contribute to success?
In Western Australia, a large number of golden bandicoots (Isoodon auratus) from a robust island population were reintroduced to three sites. After six generations, genetic diversity at these sites remained similar to the original source population. Success came from careful planning to ensure the new populations had a large gene pool to start from.
Overall, our study revealed many cases of genetic diversity loss. But we also found evidence that conservation action – especially supplementation – can improve the genetic health of a species.
Researchers, conservation managers and volunteers helped grow seedlings and establish new populations of the critically endangered feather-leaved banksia near Albany in Western Australia. David Coates
What can you do?
Supporting genetic diversity can be done at home.
If you have a garden, you can plant native species to support habitat connectivity.
Growing heirloom vegetables and rare fruit trees, or breeding heritage chooks can maintain genetic diversity in our food system.
Join community or botanic garden groups, or work with conservation groups to improve habitat or bolster numbers of threatened species.
While enjoying nature, avoid accidentally moving plants, seeds, or soil to new areas to reduce the spread of pests and diseases.
These small actions add up, helping to safeguard biodiversity at all levels – including genetic diversity.
Robyn Shaw was supported during the study by funding from the Australian Research Council. The project workshop was sponsored by the European Cooperation in Science and Technology Action ‘Genomic Biodiversity Knowledge for Resilient Ecosystems’. She is a member of the Coalition for Conservation Genetics and the IUCN Conservation Genetics Specialist Group.
Catherine Grueber’s research into the conservation genetics of threatened species receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the University of Sydney (Robinson Fellowship). She is a member of the Coalition for Conservation Genetics, and the IUCN Conservation Genetics Specialist Group.
Katherine Farquharson was supported during the study by funding from the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science. She is affiliated with Koala Conservation Australia.
300 protestors detained since November have alleged beatings and torture
‘We believe that Saba Skhvitaridze’s prosecution is politically motivated. He should be released, and his torture allegations must be effectively investigated’ – Denis Krivosheev
On 28 January, the Tbilisi City Court extended the pre-trial detention in a high-security prison of Saba Skhvitaridze, an activist accused by police of using violence against law enforcement during ongoing pro-European protests on 5 December 2024.
For several hours after his initial detention, Saba Skhvitaridze was denied access to his legal counsel and was allegedly subjected to torture to extract a confession. Independent medical examinations confirmed injuries consistent with his torture allegations, yet there has been no indication that the authorities have conducted an effective investigation into his claims. Saba Skhvitaridze faces a potential sentence of up to 11 years.
During his remand hearing, the court ordered members of public to leave the courtroom before delivering its decision – a measure largely unprecedented for protest-related trials in Georgia.
Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Deputy Director, said:
“The Georgian authorities arrested and reportedly subjected Saba Skhvitaridze to torture and other ill-treatment for participation in anti-government protests and have now extended his detention in a hearing concluded behind closed doors.
“We believe that Saba Skhvitaridze’s prosecution is politically motivated. He should be released, and his torture allegations must be effectively investigated.
“If there is sufficient admissible evidence to prosecute him, he should receive a fair trial in an open court hearing. Saba Skhvitaridze’s case is just one of many – hundreds of others face injustice and reprisals in relation to the recent protests in Georgia.”
Police violence against protestors
Police have detained several hundred protesters in Georgia during the latest wave of protest ongoing since 29 November 2024, with more than 300 of those detained alleging beatings and torture and other ill-treatment in detention.
Reacting to the extension of pre-trial detention for Saba Skhvitaridze, a protester who has alleged being tortured by the police, Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Deputy Director, said:
“The Georgian authorities arrested and reportedly subjected Saba Skhvitaridze to torture and other ill-treatment for participation in anti-government protests and have now extended his detention in a hearing concluded behind closed doors. We believe that Saba Skhvitaridze’s prosecution is politically motivated, and he should be released, and his torture allegations must be effectively investigated.”
We believe that Saba Skhvitaridze’s prosecution is politically motivated, and he should be released, and his torture allegations must be effectively investigated
Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Deputy Director
“If there is sufficient admissible evidence to prosecute him, he should receive a fair trial in an open court hearing. Saba Skhvitaridze’s case is just one of many – hundreds of others face injustice and reprisals in relation to the recent protests in Georgia.”
Background
On 28 January, the Tbilisi City Court extended the pre-trial detention in a high-security prison of Saba Skhvitaridze, an activist accused by police of using violence against law enforcement during ongoing pro-European protests on 5 December 2024. During his remand hearing, the court ordered members of public to leave the courtroom before delivering its decision – a measure largely unprecedented for protest-related trials in Georgia.
For several hours after his initial detention, Saba Skhvitaridze was denied access to his legal counsel and was allegedly subjected to torture to extract a confession. Independent medical examinations confirmed injuries consistent with his torture allegations, yet there has been no indication that the authorities have conducted an effective investigation into his claims. Saba Skhvitaridze faces a potential sentence of up to 11 years.
Earlier this afternoon, there was a serious incident at the Halifax Infirmary emergency department. The threat has been contained, and police are on-site.
Staff are also on-site to support patients and staff who witnessed this upsetting incident.
I can’t provide details of an ongoing investigation, but I want everyone involved to know that I am thinking of them at this difficult time. I also want to reassure our healthcare and support staff at the Infirmary and across the province that we will continue working with our healthcare and union partners to make workplaces as safe as possible.
I want to commend the staff for their quick response in an incredibly difficult situation. I will be in close touch with Nova Scotia Health for updates as they become available.
ATLANTA (January 29, 2025) — Sen. Greg Dolezal (R–Cumming) has been reappointed by Majority Whip Sen. Randy Robertson (R–Cataula) to serve as Chief Deputy Whip for the 2025-2026 Biennium.
“I am honored to have been renamed Chief Deputy Whip for the 2025-2026 Biennium,” said Sen. Dolezal. “I thank Majority Whip Robertson and my colleagues for their trust as we continue to uphold the conservative principles that define our great state. I am committed to ensuring that our caucus remains unified and effective as we advance the values our constituents elected us to defend.”
“Sen. Dolezal has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, fierce dedication and strong commitment to our party’s values,” said Sen. Robertson. “His unwavering work ethic makes him the ideal choice to serve as Chief Deputy Whip. I am confident that his dedication to the Georgia Senate and its Republican values will continue to serve our caucus and the people of Georgia well.”
Sen. Dolezal has served in the Georgia Senate since 2018. He will also serve as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Vice Chairman of Appropriations. Sen. Dolezal will serve as a member of the Senate Committees on Regulated Industries and Utilities, Rules, and Assignments and as an Ex-Officio member of the Senate Committees for Education and Youth, Finance, Judiciary, and Reapportionment and Redistricting.
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Sen. Greg Dolezal serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Transportation. He represents the 27th Senate District, which includes a large part of Forsyth County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-7127 or via email at Greg.Dolezal@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out toSenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
