Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
Director Kash Patel has named Steven J. Jensen as the Assistant Director in Charge of the Washington Field Office. Mr. Jensen most recently served as the special agent in charge of the Columbia Field Office in South Carolina.
Mr. Jensen joined the FBI as a special agent in 2006. He was first assigned to the New York Field Office, where he investigated health care fraud, domestic terrorism, and Asian organized crime. Mr. Jensen also served on the SWAT team and as a firearms and defensive tactics instructor.
In 2012, Mr. Jensen was promoted to supervisory instructor at the FBI Academy in Quantico, where he was a firearms instructor. He moved in 2014 to the Rockford Resident Agency of the Chicago Field Office to serve as the supervisory senior resident agent. The office covered the 10 northwestern counties outside of Chicago.
Mr. Jensen was named assistant special agent in charge for the Jackson Field Office in 2017 and oversaw the National Security, Criminal, and Administrative branches. In 2020, Mr. Jensen reported to the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters in Washington as the section chief of the Domestic Terrorism Operations Section.
In 2021, Mr. Jensen was promoted to deputy assistant director of the Training Division, where he oversaw all basic field training programs and the National Academy training programs. He was named special agent in charge of the Colombia Field Office in South Carolina in 2023.
Mr. Jensen also served temporary duty assignments to the Attorney General Protection Detail, the Safe Streets Gang Program, and as the director of the High Value Interrogation Group.
Prior to joining the FBI, Mr. Jensen was a police officer with the Colorado Springs Police Department. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Stony Brook University in New York and a master’s degree in leadership studies from Northeastern University.
U.S. Navy Adm. Alvin Holsey, commander, U.S. Southern Command, and John M. Barrett, Charge d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Panama, co-hosted a reception for Panamanian government officials and foreign dignitaries aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) during a port visit to Panama Apr. 7, opening the Central American Security Conference (CENTSEC 2025). CENTSEC is a week of international joint operations and training, to promote and facilitate dialogue and cooperation among regional security partners focused on common challenges and objectives.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has hailed the late Chris Hani as a revolutionary leader and a revered freedom fighter, whose assassination in April 1993 marked a pivotal moment in South Africa’s transition to democracy.
Delivering the keynote address at the 32nd anniversary of Hani’s assassination commemorative event, held in Sabalele Village, Cofimvaba – Hani’s birthplace in the Eastern Cape, Mashatile reflected on Hani’s legacy and the sacrifices he made for South Africa’s democracy.
Hani, the former Chief of Staff of Umkhonto weSizwe, was gunned down outside his home in Dawn Park, Boksburg, by radical right-wing Polish immigrant Janusz Waluś, who was released on parole in 2022.
Despite attempts by his killers to incite civil war, the Deputy President said Hani’s death united the nation in its pursuit of freedom, culminating in the country’s first non-racial elections on 27 April 1994.
“Today, the world has come to know Martin Thembisile as Chris Hani, a revolutionary, a commissar, a leader, a parent, a husband, and a martyr, whose blood and sacrifices cleared the way to the 1994 historic political breakthrough,” he said on Thursday.
The Deputy President highlighted Hani’s contributions to the armed struggle, his leadership in the Umkhonto Wesizwe Liberation Movement, and his unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
He praised Hani’s bravery, recounting his role in the Luthuli Detachment, where he led soldiers across the crocodile-infested Zambezi River and struck fear into the apartheid regime.
Mashatile also emphasised Hani’s vision for a better South Africa, rooted in principles of social justice.
“We must never allow the rhetoric which suggests that democracy is the worst form of government, and that apartheid was better than a democratic state.
“Nor must we allow some of us as beneficiaries of this huge sacrifice of many fallen martyrs, like Chris Hani, to discredit democracy through shameful deeds like corruption, stealing from the State and the poor, killing for positions, and fighting to access positions for selfish interests.”
The country’s second-in-command said Hani believed that societal progress should focus on providing basic needs, such as shelter, water, healthcare, and education rather than abstract theories.
“Our reality is that we are not exactly where Chris Hani would have liked us to be as a nation,” Mashatile admitted, pointing to persistent poverty, underdevelopment, and inequality in former homeland areas.
The Deputy President used his platform to call for urgent action to address issues, such as gender-based violence (GBV), unemployment, and corruption, which he said undermine the sacrifices of struggle heroes like Hani.
He urged South Africans to work together to build a more equitable society and economy, while also diversifying trade partnerships to reduce dependence on specific markets.
Mashatile announced plans to elevate the annual commemoration of Hani to a national event, focusing on development, heritage, and the values Hani stood for.
This year’s initiatives include the construction of a sports facility at a local school in Sabalele and the repatriation and reburial of liberation combatants.
“Chris Hani did not die in vain. We must honour his name not only with words but with work, compassion, and bold, urgent action. Let this moment remind us that the struggle is not over,” Mashatile stressed.
The commemoration served as a call to action for South Africans to continue fighting corruption, underdevelopment, and inequality and to build a nation that reflects the vision of heroes like Chris Hani.
Government of National Unity
The Deputy President also used his platform to touch on the Government of National Unity (GNU) in South Africa, which faces several challenges.
The GNU comprises 10 political parties, each with differing perspectives on various issues, the diversity of which, he said, can lead to disagreements and difficulties in reaching consensus.
“What we need to understand about the GNU is that we may have different views on issues, but once an agreement has been reached, we must all speak with one voice. This was also the case with Chris Hani; he had a strong view about the armed struggle, and when the ANC was prepared to engage in negotiations, the leadership decided to drop it, which he opposed.”
The Deputy President said effective governance in the GNU requires balancing individual viewpoints with collective decision-making. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)
WASHINGTON, D.C.– This week, two of Congressman Derrick Van Orden’s (WI-03) bills – the Veterans Education Transparency and Training (VETT) Actand the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves (MGIB-SR) Tuition Fairness Act– passed the House. Both pieces of legislation will address educational barriers and ultimately smooth the transition from active-duty to veteran.
The VETT Actsimplifies the process for veterans enrolling in higher education by modifying form requirements and establishing an online portal to serve as a comprehensive resource center for training available to veterans through School Certifying Officials (SCOs). The MGIB-SR Tuition Fairness Actdirects the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide greater access to educational opportunities for veterans by requiring public higher education institutions to charge in-state tuition rates for veterans using MGIB-SR.
Prior to their passage, Rep. Van Orden spoke on the House Floor in support of both of his bills. Click here or the video below to watch.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)
The bill helps more children join permanent, loving families by removing income as a barrier to adoption.
WASHINGTON, DC — On Thursday, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D, CA-37) introduced the bipartisan, bicameralAdoption Tax Credit Refundability Act of 2025alongside Representatives Robert Aderholt (R, AL-04), Don Bacon (R, NE-02), Danny K. Davis (D, IL-07), Randy Feenstra (R, IA-04), Blake Moore (R, UT-01), and Gwen Moore (D, WI-04). The legislation would help children find permanent, loving families by removing income as a barrier to adoption. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) will introduce companion legislation in the Senate.
The Adoption Tax Credit helps families offset some of the costs of adoption, especially for children with special needs. Currently, the tax credit disadvantages low- and middle-income families, in particular families with annual incomes between $30,000 to $50,000. This inequity is problematic given that approximately half of youth adopted from foster care live in families with incomes at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level; thus, the credit inadvertently creates barriers to permanency for a substantial number of families. During the Great Recession, Congress allowed families to receive the Adoption Tax Credit if the credit exceeded their tax liability recognizing that the economic hardship could prevent families from adopting or exact a heavy financial toll from families choosing adoption. The Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act of 2025 would again make this credit refundable to remove income as a barrier to adoption to help more children join permanent, loving families.
“As a Co-Chair of the Foster Youth Caucus, I am proud to co-lead the reintroduction of the bipartisan Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act with my colleagues,” said Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove. “Each and every one of our foster youth deserves to have a loving home, and reducing the financial barriers to adoption for low and middle-income families will help ensure this reality. We need more commonsense efforts like this to reform our care system and improve outcomes for families and children.”
“The Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act reflects common-sense federal policy,” said Rep. Davis. “It strengthens families, removes income as a barrier to adoption, and helps vulnerable children join permanent, loving families. Former foster youth represent the majority of children adopted by families earning less than 200 percent of the poverty level. This bill will make a critical difference in the ability of lower and middle-income families to adopt. I am proud to work across the aisle to improve the Adoption Tax Credit to better help more children and families benefit.”
“Even before joining Congress, I have been committed to supporting and engaging with the adoption community in Utah,” said Rep. Blake Moore (UT). “In learning more about their priorities and challenges, it is clear that many families cannot adopt due to financial barriers. I am proud to co-lead the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act as we seek to alleviate these hurdles. This bipartisan bill will make the adoption tax credit fully refundable so that low- and middle-income families can receive the full value of the credit, making it easier for them to open their homes to children in need of forever families.”
“This bipartisan legislation can offer support that helps transform the lives of countless children and families,” said Rep. Gwen Moore (WI). “By permanently reinstating the refundability of the Adoption Tax Credit, we help lower financial barriers to placing children in loving families permanently and we also ensure that more families, including low and middle-income families, can fully benefit from this credit. With this bill, we can pave the way for more children who have already suffered much to find permanent homes. I am honored to partner with my colleagues, including my fellow-cochairs on the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth.”
“As a father of four, I believe that every child deserves a loving home and that we should encourage families to adopt. That means that Iowans who want to adopt but do not have the financial resources to do so should not be prevented from making additions to their families – they should be supported,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I’m glad to work with a bipartisan group of my colleagues to make the Adoption Tax Credit fully refundable so that families can adopt without facing costly financial barriers. To keep our communities strong, we need to invest in our families and help every child find a permanent, loving home.”
“For years, income has become a roadblock for many families wishing to adopt,” said Rep. Bacon. “As co-chair of the Foster Youth Caucus and an adoptive parent myself, I understand the need to remove this barrier by offsetting these burdensome costs. By making the adoption tax credit fully refundable, this bill makes it easier for families to adopt and gives our nation’s youth a safe, loving, and permanent home. I thank my co-leads for their partnership on this common-sense, bipartisan legislation that is desperately needed today.”
“Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a loving, permanent home,” said Rep. Aderholt. “One of the biggest concerns I hear from adoptive parents is the high cost of adoption, which can be overwhelming and discouraging. The Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act helps make adoption more accessible by easing the financial barriers that too often stand in the way. I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to ensure more families can say yes to adoption and more children can find the forever homes they deserve.”
“Adoption is a true joy for families, but it is not without significant financial cost,” said Senator Cramer. “Our bill will make the credit refundable to help all adoptive families access the full amount of the adoption tax credit, regardless of their tax burden. Support for adoptive families is essential to ensure more children find the stable, loving home they deserve.”
“Minnesotans have a long and proud tradition of adoption to welcome children into safe and loving homes,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation will allow more families to access the full adoption tax credit, helping ensure a smooth and successful transition for children and families. As co-chair of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, I’ll keep working to improve the adoption process and help every child find the permanent home they deserve.”
The Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act of 2025 is supported by 98 state, local and national organizations, including: Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys; Child Welfare League of America; Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat of the Adoption Tax Credit Working Group); Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption; Families Rising; Generations United; Jewish Children’s Adoption Network; Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois; National Council for Adoption; National Foster Parent Association; United States Conference of Catholic Bishops; the Voice for Adoption; and Youth Villages.
Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys
“Restoring refundability to the Adoption Tax Credit will help more families welcome children into loving homes and help secure their futures,” said Deb Guston, Adoption Policy Director of the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA). “We applaud the leadership of our Adoption Tax Credit champions in Congress in reintroducing legislation on this important issue for children and families.”
Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute
“CCAI is proud to serve as the secretariat of the Adoption Tax Credit Working Group, a national coalition of nearly 100 organizations committed to making adoption more accessible,” said Kate McLean, Executive Director of CCAI. “As the nonprofit partner of the bipartisan, bicameral Adoption Caucus, we’re grateful for the leadership of Caucus Members, especially Co-Chairs Robert Aderholt, Kevin Cramer, Danny K. Davis, and Amy Klobuchar as well as Sen. Ben Ray Luján and Reps. Blake Moore and Don Bacon, in advancing adoption tax credit refundability and helping remove barriers to permanency.”
Families Rising
“This bipartisan legislation stands as a beacon of hope, leveling the playing field and extending a helping hand to lower-income families on par with their middle-income counterparts. It champions the cause of permanency for children transitioning out of the foster care system, enabling them to find loving homes through adoption,” said Ligia Cushman, Chief Executive Officer of Families Rising. “This transformative legislation addresses the stark reality faced by numerous children adopted from foster care. With the introduction of this legislation, a bright and promising future becomes possible for these vulnerable children, as their families are granted the opportunity to access what they need to thrive.”
National Council For Adoption
“We are grateful for the bipartisan leadership in making the adoption tax credit available to more families,” said Ryan Hanlon, president and CEO of National Council For Adoption. “The cost of adoption should never be a barrier for children to find permanent, loving families, and this legislation ensures we support all families, including lower-income families.”
Voice for Adoption
“Many children adopted from foster care are adopted by families at or near the poverty line and they receive little or no assistance under the current tax credit,” said Patrick Lester, Executive Director of Voice for Adoption. “This bipartisan legislation will make adoption possible for many more vulnerable children who need a permanent place to call home.”
A copy of the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act is here; a summary of the bill ishere.
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Representatives Davis (IL), Moore (UT), Moore (WI), and Feenstra (IA) are Members of the House Ways and Means Committee with broad jurisdiction over Federal revenue measures. Representatives Bacon (NE), Kamlager-Dove (CA), and Moore (WI) are co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth. Representatives Adherholt and Davis as well as Senators Cramer and Klobuchar co-chair the Congressional Coalition on Adoption.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)
WASHINGTON – Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) reintroduced their Buffalo Tract Protection Act to permanently withdraw minerals from development on four parcels of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands in southern Sandoval County, including the Buffalo Tract and the Crest of Montezuma. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) are original cosponsors.
“The protection of New Mexico’s lands and waters is integral to our cultures, ways of life, and our natural resources. We must fight to protect these resources now more than ever,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “Working collaboratively with our Pueblo and Tribal nations, Sandoval County, and local stakeholders, I am proud to re-introduce the Buffalo Tract Protection Act. This bill will help permanently protect these sacred and ancestral lands of San Felipe and Santa Ana Pueblos, safeguard the health of our communities, and preserve our ecosystems for generations to come.”
“As New Mexicans have been saying for over a decade: the Buffalo Tract is the wrong place for a gravel mine. It would decrease home values, diminish quality of life, and degrade a vital wildlife corridor linking the Sandia and Jemez Mountains. It would also disregard the cultural significance of Buffalo Tract to the Pueblos of Santa Ana and San Felipe as well as the San Antonio de las Huertas Land Grant heirs,” said Heinrich. “We need to pass this bill to make the protections that local communities fought for permanent.”
“New Mexico’s public lands are sacred to our communities and heritage. I am proud to join Senator Heinrich and Representative Stansbury in introducing this crucial legislation to help protect our public lands for years to come,” said Luján. “This legislation responds to the significant concerns of rural, Tribal, and traditional communities about the harmful impacts of gravel mining and safeguards our landscapes and wildlife for future generations.”
“I’m proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Buffalo Tract Protection Act,” said Leger Fernández. “The Buffalo Tract contains sacred landscapes that hold deep cultural and spiritual meaning for the Pueblos of Santa Ana and San Felipe and generations of New Mexicans. This bill protects those lands from mining and honors the voices of the communities who have spoken clearly for over a decade. We’re making sure these lands remain a place where people can experience their beauty for generations to come — not a site for gravel pits that threaten their beauty, wildlife, and history.”
For years, local communities, Tribes, and homeowners have advocated for the protection of the Buffalo Tract and Crest of Montezuma. These lands hold ancestral and spiritual significance for the Pueblos of San Felipe and Santa Ana, and also provide accessible outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, sightseeing, and hunting.
In 2023, the BLM initiated a public engagement process to consider management changes for four public land parcels in the Placitas area. In response to overwhelming support, the BLM withdrew mineral rights on approximately 4,200 acres for the next 50 years. When passed, the Buffalo Tract Protection Act would make these protections permanent under federal law.
Heinrich first introduced the legislation with then-U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) in 2016 after working with local stakeholders and the community to find a solution that would protect public health and the many traditional uses of these public lands. Stansbury began leading the House bill when she joined Congress in 2021.
A map of proposed boundaries is here.
The text of the bill is here.
The Buffalo Tract Protection Act is endorsed by Santa Ana Pueblo, San Felipe Pueblo, Land Use Protection Trust, New Mexico Wild, Eastern Sandoval Citizens Association, Sundance Mesa Homeowners Association, La Mesa Homeowners Association, Anasazi Homeowners Association, Pathways: Wildlife Corridors of NM, and Sandoval County Commission.
A list of endorsements and statements of support are here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and members of the Republican Women’s Caucus sent a letter to the leadership of USA Fencing expressing their unwavering support for female athlete Stephanie Turner who made the decision to forfeit her match rather than compete against a biological male opponent in a women’s fencing tournament.
Following Ms. Turner’s principled decision to forfeit the match, she was issued a black card, the most severe penalty available under USA Fencing rules, resulting in her immediate disqualification from the tournament.
“Ms. Turner’s stand reflects the deep concerns of countless women and girls across America who seek fairness, safety, and integrity in women’s sports—values that we, as a caucus, are committed to upholding,” write the lawmakers. “The Republican Women’s Caucus was founded to amplify the voices of Republican women in Congress…and ensure women and girls have equal opportunities to thrive. Preserving fair competition in women’s athletics is a critical matter that directly impacts the dignity and opportunities of female athletes.”
The lawmakers urge USA Fencing to reconsider the disciplinary actions against Ms. Turner and to critically review its transgender athlete policy implemented in 2023.
Read the letter here.
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The Republican Women’s Caucus, founded in March 2025, is the official group of GOP women lawmakers in the House and Senate dedicated to championing Members’ legislative priorities, supporting Members’ work to secure and retain leadership positions, and elevating the work and policy endeavors of Republican women on the national stage and locally in their states and districts. To learn more, visit thewebsiteor check out the Caucus onFacebook,Instagram, andX.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)
(NEW YORK, NY) –Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis released the following statement in response to the helicopter crash in the Hudson River:
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and pilot who tragically lost their lives in the helicopter crash over the Hudson River. This incident highlights the safety concerns we’ve raised with the FAA and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and previously with the Biden Administration, regarding tour helicopters operating over densely populated and residential communities across New York City.
Staten Island residents remain deeply concerned about the frequent low-flying tour helicopters whose flight paths continue to frequently pass over their neighborhoods at all hours of the day. To prevent another tragedy, these tourist helicopter flights over NYC must be more heavily regulated and restricted, if not come to an end entirely.”
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Colleen Murrell, Chair of the Editorial Board, and Full Professor in Journalism, Dublin City University
George Clooney’s role as a veteran TV reporter in the play Good Night, and Good Luck has received general acclaim after the play opened on Broadway last week. A New York Times review proclaimed that it “makes Edward Murrow a saint of sane journalism for a world that still needs one”.
This theatre production is an adaptation of Clooney and Grant Heslov’s 2005 film of the same name, and it takes the audience back to the 1950s when CBS News journalist Edward Murrow took on populist and high-profile senator, Joseph McCarthy.
McCarthy had become an influential and feared figure after holding a series of public hearings where people were charged, often on very little evidence, of being communists and infiltrating government departments.
Many people lost their jobs, and journalists and academics were often targeted. Murrow’s programmes showcased spurious cases of overreach, which earned him McCarthy’s wrath. This courageous TV journalism exposed McCarthy’s methods and helped bring about the senator’s eventual downfall.
It is impossible not to see the parallels with the current parlous state of press freedom in the US. A week before the play opened, Clooney was interviewed on CBS News and said: “When the other three estates fail, when the judiciary and the executive and the legislative branches fail us, the fourth estate has to succeed.”
And this feels highly significant as earlier this week a federal judge issued an injunction against a decision by Donald Trump’s government which effectively restricted a news organisation’s ability to operate. Judge Trevor McFadden, a Trump appointee, said that a news organisation (Associated Press) could not be punished for its editorial decisions.
He declared: “Under the First Amendment, if the Government opens its doors to some journalists – be it the Oval Office, the East Room or elsewhere – it cannot then shut those doors to other journalists because of their viewpoints.” However, the government has already announced it is appealing McFadden’s ruling.
Ed Murrow’s famous newscast on Joseph McCarthy.
AP has been barred from the Oval Office and the presidential aircraft Air Force One since February 11, after it said it would continue to use the geographical locator the “Gulf of Mexico” rather than accede to Trump’s executive order that it be renamed the “Gulf of America”. But this was always about more than the Gulf of Mexico, it was about the right for media organisations to choose their own words and content.
AP then attempted to overturn the exclusion order through an injunction. McFadden initially held off granting this injunction, and a further hearing on March 27 resulted in lengthy testimony from AP staff about the financial and editorial costs caused by its lack of access to the White House.
Some newspaper coverage is hailing the granting of this injunction as a major victory for media freedom, with the Guardian, in words that echo Edward Murrow, proposing that “standing up for one’s principles may not be just a gesture made in vain”.
And yet this remains just a temporary injunction and the full court case in which AP is suing three senior members of the White House: press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, chief of staff Susie Wiles and deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich has yet to play out.
Judge McFadden even sounded a note of caution regarding his ruling: “It does not bestow special treatment upon the AP. Indeed the AP is not necessarily entitled to the ‘first in line every time’ permanent press pool access it enjoyed under the White House Correspondents’ Association. But it cannot be treated worse than its peer wire services either.”
Rising challenge for journalism
Pressures on journalists have definitely ramped up in the past few months. During the hearing on March 27, AP’s White House correspondent Zeke Miller claimed that he had noticed a new “softening of tone and tenor” of the questions posed to the president and was surprised by the increase in off-topic questions at the expense of topical “news of the day” questions.
George Clooney at the launch of the new Broadway play Good Night, and Good Luck.
There certainly appears to be an increased number of what Australians call “Dorothy Dixer” questions, where friendly politicians or journalists ask soft questions of the government or questions designed to distract from the difficult news of the day.
And it is clear that journalists who are considered friendly are getting priority treatment. When Brian Glenn, chief White House correspondent for the cable network Real America’s Voice, was chosen to ask a question of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in the now-infamous White House conference on February 28, he served up a question about why the Ukrainian leader was not wearing a suit.
A query that just happened to be very helpful to the tone that Trump wanted to create in that meeting. A seasoned AP journalist would never have asked such a bizarre and unnecessary question.
Questions about press freedom will be tackled next at a forum organised by the Columbia Journalism School and the New York Times later this month. The forum, The Fight for Global Press Freedom, proposes that “press freedom stands at a historic crossroads”.
Holding this forum shows courage in the wake of Columbia University potentially losing federal funding to the tune of US$400 million dollars (£305 milllion). Federal government administrators claim this was in response to pro-Palestinian protests and “the school’s failure to protect Jewish students from discrimination”. Negotiations between the university and funders are ongoing.
As the world’s trade negotiators, university administrators and journalists decide whether or not to hold the line and stand up to a bullying president, perhaps the words of Edward Murrow might hold the key. In 1954 McCarthy attacked Murrow, accusing him incorrectly of communist sympathies.
In his reply, Murrow argued that in so doing McCarthy had “proved again that anyone who exposes him, anyone who does not share his historical disregard for decency and human dignity and the rights guaranteed by the constitution must be either a communist or a fellow traveller”.
AP’s fight back against its White House ban and its consequent chilling effect on media freedom could be the start of a new era of standing up to Trump, and damn the consequences. Let’s hope it’s not just the dying refrain of a once powerful not-for-profit legacy media organisation.
Colleen Murrell received funding from Irish regulator Coimisiún na Meán (2021-4) for research for the annual Reuters Digital News Report Ireland.
There were no reported school division losses of public money during the second quarter of the 2024-25 school division fiscal year (December 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025).
The Ministry of Education has tabled a nil report to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.
Ottawa, Ontario, April 11, 2025 – Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) wishes to advise the public of sidewalk closures on Parliament Hill due to upcoming construction work. This critical work is necessary to facilitate the relocation of underground infrastructure.
The work is carefully planned to minimize disruption during peak summer events, and efforts will be made to restore the areas between phases. The first phase of this work will take place from April 14 to June 27, 2025.
The affected areas include:
The north part of the front lawn
The sidewalk near the Visitor Welcome Centre at West Block
For the safety of the public, some sidewalks will be closed and protective enclosures will be placed around impacted areas during construction.
Temporary pedestrian crossings with accessible ramps will be in place to ensure safe and barrier-free access to the Visitor Welcome Centre and the West Block.
Visitors are advised to obey all signage and on-site instructions.
PSPC appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this necessary work.
Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, has issued the following statement in response to the “yes” vote by eligible voters on the ratification of the Kitselas Treaty and Self-Government Constitution:
“On behalf of all British Columbians, I would like to congratulate the members and leadership of Kitselas First Nation on the successful ratification of their treaty and constitution.
“Of the more than 95% of eligible voters who voted on the treaty and constitution, 85% voted ‘yes’ on the treaty and 81% voted ‘yes’ on the constitution. For the treaty and constitution to be ratified, each vote required a double majority. That means more than 50% of eligible voters on the voters list needed to cast a ballot, and more than 50% of those voters needed to cast a ballot in favour of the treaty and constitution. Based on these results, these thresholds were met.
“Kitselas First Nation, the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia have been in treaty negotiations since 1993.
“With negotiations on the Kitselas Treaty complete, and a successful Kitselas ratification vote, the Kitselas people have now chosen their path forward. This decision is one that generations of Kitselas people have worked toward.
“In particular, I wish to congratulate Chief Councillor Glenn Bennett of Kitselas First Nation, Kitselas Council, Elders, past Chiefs, the Kitselas Treaty Team, the Eligibility and Enrolment team, and the Tripartite Ratification Committee for all of their hard work and dedication that has brought us to this momentous day. I acknowledge the work has been immense. We wouldn’t be here without you.
“I would like to express our government’s recognition, in particular, for the many years of dedicated service by Mel Bevan, Sm’ooyget Satsan, who passed away in October 2023, and who served as Kitselas Chief Negotiator for many years.
“The next step is for British Columbia to ratify the treaty, then all parties sign and finally Canada ratifies. Provincial and federal ratification involves the B.C. legislature and Canadian Parliament each passing treaty implementation legislation. As the minister of Indigenous relations and reconciliation, I remain firmly committed to taking this path alongside the Kitselas people.
“Throughout the next steps of this process, there will be further opportunities for regional and public engagement, as well as ongoing consultation with neighbouring First Nations.
“The Kitselas Treaty is a path to self-governance, recognition of rights, collaborative resource management, and new economic opportunity. It provides the basis for a revitalized relationship between Kitselas, their neighbours and all levels of government by fostering shared understanding, providing certainty and supporting further work together in the region.”
Learn More:
For more information about the vote, visit: https://kitselastreaty.ca/
For more information about Kitselas Treaty negotiations, visit: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/govtogetherbc/engagement/kitselas-and-kitsumkalum-treaty-negotiations
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)
Rep. Jack Bergman, joined by Michigan GOP colleagues Rep. John Moolenaar, Rep. Tim Walberg, and Rep. John James sent a letter to Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker calling for him to reverse course on a recent politically charged decision that would jeopardize efforts to keep invasive Asian Carp out of the Great Lakes. The letter highlights that the delay is both unjustified and dangerous to the continued health of our Great Lakes.
Recently, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker halted the Brandon Road Interbasin Project – a critical piece of infrastructure being built to prevent invasive carp from migrating from the Mississippi River basin into Lake Michigan.
In a hard-hitting letter to Pritzker, the Members of Congress noted, “We write to express our profound dismay at your decision to unilaterally suspend Construction Increment IA of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project (BRIP), administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Rock Island District. As you know, the Brandon Road Lock and Dam near Joliet, Illinois, has been identified as the critical chokepoint for preventing the upstream movement of invasive carp and other nuisance species from the Mississippi River basin into the Great Lakes through the Illinois Waterway. This unnecessary and unfounded obstruction trades responsible governance for partisan grandstanding, putting our Great Lakes, economy, and communities at needless risk.”
Additionally, the Members noted that Pritzker’s move reflected either a “fundamental misunderstanding or a deliberate disregard” of longstanding federal financial law.
You can read the full letter here or below:
Governor Pritzker:
We write to express our profound dismay at your decision to unilaterally suspend Construction Increment IA of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project (BRIP), administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Rock Island District. As you know, the Brandon Road Lock and Dam near Joliet, Illinois, has been identified as the critical chokepoint for preventing the upstream movement of invasive carp and other nuisance species from the Mississippi River basin into the Great Lakes through the Illinois Waterway. This unnecessary and unfounded obstruction trades responsible governance for partisan grandstanding, putting our Great Lakes, economy, and communities at needless risk.
On February 10, 2025, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources notified USACE that the State would be postponing the real estate closing agreement required for USACE to commence work on Construction Increment IA. Citing an “anticipated lack of federal funding for the Brandon Road Project,” the State has demanded assurances from the federal government that the funds allocated to BRIP through Pub. L. 117-58 will remain available.
This demand reflects either a fundamental misunderstanding or a deliberate disregard of longstanding federal financial law. Under 31 U.S.C. § 1501, federal funds can only be considered obligated – and thus legally bound for their designated purpose – once a formal commitment, such as a contract, is executed by an agency.2 However, USACE cannot take this step until the State of Illinois finalizes the real estate closing agreement – a prerequisite that your office is deliberately delaying. As a result, the very funds you claim to be protecting with the pause remain unobligated and at risk of rescission or reprogramming by Congress – an authority that has long rested with Congress concerning unobligated funds still at the U.S. Treasury.
Of course, you would recognize this if your decision to pause the project were not driven by partisan motives. In a February 7, 2025, memorandum shared with your office, USACE confirmed that $100 million in federal funds was available for the scheduled February 17, 2025, start of Construction Increment IA. Yet, the designated funds now hang in the balance over your insistence on receiving assurances from the Trump administration – assurances that are entirely unnecessary. The reality is that your office has the authority to finalize the real estate closing agreement and allow USACE to proceed, making your delay both unjustified and dangerous to the continued health of our Great Lakes.
The commercial, recreational, and tribal fisheries of the Great Lakes generate between $5 and $7 billion annually for the economies of the United States and Canada, supporting more than 75,000 jobs.3 These waters sustain a world-class fishery built on native and naturalized species like whitefish, salmon, and lake trout – species that would be devastated by the spread of invasive carp from the Illinois Waterway. Allowing their introduction would be an irreversible economic and ecological disaster, jeopardizing industries, livelihoods, and entire communities that depend on the Great Lakes.
Safeguarding our lakes demands strong leadership that prioritizes responsible action over political posturing. Years of strategic planning and bipartisan collaboration between USACE Rock Island District and the States of Illinois and Michigan have brought us to the threshold of a historic preservation victory for our region’s economy and environment. Your obstruction not only undermines this progress but signals a reckless disregard for the long-term health of the Great Lakes and the millions of people who rely on them. We urge you, in the strongest terms possible, to abandon this self-serving interest, finalize the real estate closing agreement, and allow USACE to move forward with BRIP without further delay. The Great Lakes – and the future of those who depend on them – deserve nothing less.
Headline: NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai and Wake County Sheriff Willie Rowe to Announce New Mental Health Treatment Options for Defendants Deemed Incapable to Proceed
NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai and Wake County Sheriff Willie Rowe to Announce New Mental Health Treatment Options for Defendants Deemed Incapable to Proceed jawerner
Leaders from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services in partnership with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office will hold a joint news conference at 4 p.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, at the Wake County Detention Center, located at 3301 Hammond Road in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Officials will announce the launch of capacity restoration services at the Wake County Detention Center for defendants with mental illness whom the court has determined Incapable to Proceed to trial. The new NC RISE program in Wake County works to ensure the right mental health care is available for all North Carolinians. The expansion of services will allow defendants to move through the judicial process more quickly. NC RISE aims to strengthen and improve capacity in both the legal and behavioral health systems in North Carolina.
Credentialed media are invited to attend to hear from Sheriff Willie Rowe, Secretary Dev Sangvai and others during the press conference. A brief Q&A with media will follow.
What: Wake County Capacity Restoration Program Launch Press Conference
Who: Dev Sangvai, Secretary, NCDHHS Willie Rowe, Sheriff, Wake County Dr. Anna Abate, NC RISE Coordinator, Recovery Solutions Kelly Crosbie, Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services, NCDHHS
When: Monday, April 14, 2025 4 p.m.
Where: Wake County Detention Center 3301 Hammond Road Raleigh, NC 26703
Media: Credentialed media are invited to attend and should plan to arrive by 3:45 p.m. Please RSVP to news@dhhs.nc.gov.
WASHINGTON, DC — Today U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Zach Nunn (IA-03) introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at preventing veteran suicide by strengthening mental health support for servicemembers transitioning to civilian life.
The Daniel J. Harvey and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Actimproves two federal programs – the Department of Defense’s Solid Start program and the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Transition Assistance Program (TAP) – to better connect veterans with mental health resources and benefits.
“Our nation has a sacred duty to care for Veterans when they return from service, and that starts with recognizing that the most serious wounds of war are not always visible from the outside,” said Magaziner. “This bipartisan bill improves the VA Solid Start program and DOD Transition Assistance Program by increasing awareness of these mental health resources for servicemembers transitioning to civilian life. This is a necessary and long overdue step toward addressing a mental health crisis that has taken far too many lives.”
“America is the land of the free and home of the brave because of people like Cpl. Adam Lambert. A proud Marine from Iowa, Adam raised his hand to serve our country,” said Nunn. “Unfortunately, too often the transition back to civilian life is more difficult than it should be. In honor of Adam’s memory, I’m grateful to work with Adam’s parents to make the transition easier for America’s veterans by improving mental health services.”
The bill expands TAP to include more support for veterans dealing with PTSD, depression, substance use, and loneliness. It also strengthens Solid Start by increasing outreach and education to veterans on VA benefits and mental health services available to them after service.
The legislation is named in honor of two Marines who served together in Afghanistan: Lance Cpl. Daniel J. Harvey of Johnston, Rhode Island, and Cpl. Adam Lambert of Adel, Iowa. Both died by suicide within a year after returning home from service.
Veteran suicide rates are three times higher in the first year after leaving the military, making the transition period a critical window for intervention. Veterans are often unaware of the support offered to them through the Department of Defense and Department of Veteran Affairs.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted for, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act. This legislation would require proof of citizenship to register to vote in U.S. elections and ensure that states remove noncitizens from their voter rolls.
“Only American citizens should be allowed to vote in American elections. It’s why I voted to ban illegal immigrants from voting in our elections and ensure that liberal states like California clean their voter rolls of noncitizens,” said Rep. Feenstra. “Keeping noncitizens and illegal immigrants from unlawfully voting is the least we can do to secure our elections. As a strong advocate for border security and election integrity, I will continue to work with President Trump to ensure that only American citizens vote in American elections.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)
WASHINGTON –Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) reintroduced the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act alongside Reps. Julia Brownley (CA-26), Adrian Smith (NE-03), and Gabe Evans (CO-08). This bipartisan, bicameral bill makes critical reforms to improve access to supplemental oxygen for Medicare beneficiaries. The Senate companion bill is led by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-IL), Mark Warner (D-IN), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).
“Supplemental oxygen is lifesaving, but many people struggle to get access due to burdensome Medicare requirements,” said Congressman Valadao. “The SOAR Act makes it easier for people to get the oxygen treatment they need to live healthy, active lives. I want to thank my colleagues for joining me in the fight to ensure the availability of this critical medical resource.”
“No one should have to struggle to breathe, yet millions of seniors face this difficult and frightening reality every day,” said Rep. Brownley. “This legislation will ensure that over 1.5 million Americans who rely on supplemental oxygen have access to the care and portable oxygen they need, helping them to lead healthier, more active lives.”
“Patients who need supplemental oxygen treatments face significant barriers to care, especially in rural areas like Nebraska’s Third District where long driving distances are required to access respiratory treatment,” said Rep. Smith. “This bipartisan bill would improve quality of life and outcomes for these patients by allowing Medicare coverage flexibility for beneficiaries who depend on supplemental oxygen. I thank Rep. Valadao and my other colleagues for working together to reintroduce it.”
“As a parent whose child has relied on supplemental oxygen in Colorado’s high-altitude environment, I know firsthand how critical access to it is,” said Rep. Evans. “I’m proud to cosponsor the SOAR Act to ensure patients in rural communities across Colorado District 8 and the nation get the care they need— without unnecessary barriers.”
“Thank you to the SOAR Act’s champions. For more than a million people living with chronic lung disease, access to the right type of supplemental oxygen is not just a necessity; it is their lifeline. It allows them to attend family gatherings, go to medical appointments and even complete daily activities like going to the grocery store. Unfortunately, too many people face challenges in getting the right type and levels of oxygen. The bipartisan, bicameral SOAR Act offers a critical solution by ensuring access to the appropriate supplemental oxygen for all who depend on it. This truly lifechanging legislation is needed now more than ever, and we urge Congress to swiftly pass the SOAR Act,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association.
“The reintroduction of the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform Act (SOAR) marks a critical step forward in ensuring Medicare beneficiaries have access to life-sustaining supplemental oxygen and the expertise of respiratory therapists in the home setting,” said Dana Evans, MHA, RRT, RRT-NPS, President of the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC). “This legislation addresses long-standing challenges caused by inadequate Medicare reimbursement and limited access to skilled respiratory care professionals. By establishing a new payment methodology for liquid oxygen and prioritizing patient access to respiratory therapists, the SOAR Act is essential for improving the quality of life and health outcomes for more than 1.5 million Americans who depend on supplemental oxygen. Together with our coalition partners, we remain committed to turning this legislation into law and ensuring that all patients receive the respiratory care they need to live fuller, healthier lives.”
“Pulmonary hypertension is a progressive, fatal lung disease that impacts individuals of every age, including children and young adults and is characterized by shortness of breath and fatigue. People with PH often need high-flow supplemental oxygen, more than is provided by a portable oxygen concentrator, to continue basic daily activities such as medical appointments, grocery shopping and family visits. The disappearance of liquid oxygen from the market leaves these already short-of-breath individuals burdened with larger oxygen tanks they may not be able to lift, effectively leaving them house bound. By maximizing medically appropriate access to all forms of supplemental oxygen, the SOAR Act allows people with pulmonary hypertension the freedom to return to their everyday activities and life healthier, happier, more independent lives,” said Matt J. Granato, LL.M., MBA, President & CEO, Pulmonary Hypertension Association.
“The COPD Foundation thanks Senator Cassidy for his sponsorship of the SOAR Act and his leadership on the urgent need for Medicare supplemental oxygen reform. Our advocates will work tirelessly with him to ensure this bill becomes law in 2025. The time is now to make sure people with COPD have access to this essential care,” said Jean Wright, MD, MBA, Chief Executive Officer of the COPD Foundation.
“Filling an oxygen prescription should be as straightforward as picking up medication from the pharmacy, but for patients, it’s an uphill battle fraught with obstacles and delays,” said Scott Staszak, President and CEO of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to Senate and House co-sponsors for championing oxygen reform legislation, giving Americans the chance to breathe easier and live more fully.”
“It is important to see this bill brought back in front of Congress for approval,” says John Howington, MD, MBA, FCCP, President of the American College of Chest Physicians. “As an organization of pulmonary experts, we see firsthand the suffering of those with severe chronic lung diseases, like interstitial lung disease, who lack sufficient access to necessary oxygen therapies. We need the support of Congress to improve the quality of life of the 1.5 million patients who will benefit from access to supplemental oxygen through this bill.”
“As a California lung transplant pulmonologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, I know from firsthand experience that the Medicare supplemental oxygen benefit is not serving my patients well. The patients I care for have advanced lung disease, and in the pre-transplant period they frequently require much higher oxygen flow rates than portable oxygen concentrators can deliver. Due to a near collapse of the oxygen market, my patients now rely on very heavy and inefficient oxygen canisters when they leave their homes, putting them at constant risk of running out of oxygen. In essence, the current Medicare supplemental oxygen benefit entraps them at home and prevents them from leading productive lives. The legislation introduced by Rep. Valadao, Rep. Brownley and colleagues will make essential changes to the Medicare supplemental oxygen benefit that will help my patients and will provide greater access to higher quality supplemental oxygen systems. I am grateful for the leadership of Rep. Valadao and Rep. Brownley and urge Congress to quickly pass this legislation,” said Nicholas A. Kolaitis MD MAS , California physician and member of the ATS Health Policy Committee.
“The CQRC applauds Senate and House sponsors for the prompt reintroduction of the SOAR Act in the 119th Congress to maintain and stabilize reimbursement rates for supplemental oxygen supplies and services. This legislation will also ensure enhanced respiratory and pulmonary care access, including increased access to high flow modalities for patients to improve independence and quality of life,” said Robin L. Menchen, President and CEO of Rotech Healthcare and a Council for Quality Respiratory Care (CQRC) Board Member. “We look forward to continuing our advocacy for this important legislation to build upon the momentum the SOAR Act had in the previous Congress to ensure it is passed this year.”
Background:
Currently, Medicare covers oxygen as a durable medical equipment (DME) benefit for patients who experience oxygen desaturation, a lower level of oxygen in the blood due to lung disease or other chronic conditions. Supplemental oxygen can be delivered in several forms, including compressed or liquid oxygen, and portable or stationary oxygen. Since 2011, CMS implemented the competitive bidding process for supplemental oxygen, causing payment rates for all types of oxygen to drop substantially. Liquid oxygen is lightweight, portable and can deliver oxygen at higher levels for people with more advanced lung disease, but unfortunately it is almost impossible for patients to access.
The SOAR Act would:
Remove all oxygen and oxygen equipment from Medicare competitive bidding.
Establish a separate payment rate for liquid oxygen.
Create a new add-on to the supplemental oxygen rate to reimburse respiratory therapist services to Medicare beneficiaries.
Establish protections for Medicare beneficiaries who use supplemental oxygen.
Ensure program integrity by strengthening fraud and abuse protections.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)
WASHINGTON—Today, Congressman Dale W. Strong (R-AL), alongside his colleagues Congressmen David Kustoff (R-TN) and Tracey Mann (R-KS), introduced the Winter Canola Study Act. This legislation would direct the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) to study the gap in crop insurance coverage for double-crop grown winter oilseeds, such as canola.
Additionally, the bill recognizes the economic and environmental benefits of double-crop grown canola and emphasizes the importance of investing in these oilseeds to provide a more robust market for our farmers, effectively boosting rural communities, creating jobs, and strengthening our energy security.
“The Winter Canola Study Act would give North Alabama farmers crucial new information and broaden the opportunity to plant winter canola as an alternative double crop option,” said Congressman Strong. “I am proud to work on behalf of farmers by joining Representative Kustoff and my colleagues in introducing this legislation. This research would help create a more competitive market for farmers while supporting the hard work they do to provide our food, fiber, and fuel.”
“America’s farmers keep our economy going by putting food on the shelves and fuel in our tanks,” said Congressman Kustoff. “By allowing our farmers to plant winter canola in the off season, the Winter Canola Study Act will expand opportunities for growers and producers across the nation.”
“Harnessing the potential of American-grown commodities like winter oilseed supports the entire agriculture and energy supply from grower to consumer,” said Congressman Mann. “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to help facilitate the growth of energy-abundant and sustainable fuel feedstocks by supporting access to risk management tools, research into yield improvements, and the environmental benefits of new crop rotations.”
Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Ted Budd’s (R-N.C.) bipartisan resolution designating April 5, 2025, as Gold Star Wives Day passed the Senate by unanimous consent. The resolution honors the spouses of fallen service members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.) joined Senator Budd in introducing the resolution.
“The fallen members of our military have paid the ultimate sacrifice, laying down their lives in defense of our country’s freedom and security. They will never be forgotten, but the sacrifices made by their spouses are often overlooked. Today, I am proud that my bipartisan resolution honoring our nation’s Gold Star wives received unanimous support and passed the Senate. Amy Kate and I extend our deepest gratitude to the spouses of our fallen veterans in North Carolina and across the nation,” said Senator Budd.
“As a veteran myself, I know the sacrifices our service members make—and I know their families often sacrifice even more. Gold Star spouses have faced the greatest loss, and their strength in the face of that grief is a powerful reminder of what service truly means. We owe them not just our gratitude, but our continued support,”said Senator Kelly.
“Our fallen servicemembers’ loved ones bear a grief few can ever understand, but we must never forget their sacrifice. I am proud to join my colleagues to extend our eternal gratitude to every family member of the heroes who have laid down their lives in defense of our nation and freedoms,”said Senator Boozman.
Headline: Global solar boom leaving Canada in the shade — but federal shift could change sector fortunes
Fernando Melo, federal director for policy and government affairs at CANREA, an industry body, said Canada has “great solar resources that we are only beginning to harness,” noting that new utility-scale power procurements coming in 2025 in several provinces, including solar-specific auctions in Quebec and Saskatchewan, would help spur deployment of PV plant. Read more.
The post Global solar boom leaving Canada in the shade — but federal shift could change sector fortunes appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
A study published in Patterns looks at potential patient harms linked to the use of AI medical outcome prediction models.
Professor Peter Bannister, Fellow and Healthcare expert at the Institution of Engineering and Technology said:
“AI is trained on real-world data which include biases as well as the desired potential to enable better decisions. In the case of healthcare, there is a risk that if AI is widely used for clinical decision making, it may further marginalise groups who already have poor access to treatments. An example would be for patients where AI predicts they have a low survival rate, which means they are then not offered potentially lifesaving treatments.
“This paper proves that in many clinical decision-making processes, relying only on AI’s ability to accurately predict symptoms can sometimes lead to worse outcomes for those patients. While the authors make it clear there are further, more complex scenarios that need to be studied, this work reinforces the need for AI technologies that are used in real-world settings to be assessed in a “whole system” approach, where the overall health outcome of the patient is used to decide whether the AI is contributing to improved care.”
Professor Ibrahim Habli, Research Director, Centre for Assuring Autonomy, University of York, said:
“The study warns us about the risks of relying too much on one technology and judging it only by its accuracy, without considering who it’s for and in what situations. For AI to be used safely in healthcare, it needs to fit into the real-world practices of doctors and the specific needs of patients. The study is encouraging in that it focuses on AI safety, especially as it follows a recently published White Paper ‘Avoiding the AI off switch’ highlighting the need for AI to be a benefit, not a liability to both clinicians and patients. Treating patients is a process that changes over time, depending on their needs and available treatments. Focusing only on accuracy and outcomes can be misleading and even dangerous. AI might also show bias, such as against people with disabilities or rare diseases, making it safer for some people but not for everyone.”
Prof Ian Simpson, Professor of Biomedical Informatics, University of Edinburgh, said:
When asked how widely are these outcome prediction AI models used in the NHS/NHS Scotland right now?
“It’s reasonable to say that AI OPMs are not that widely used at the moment in the NHS/NHS Scotland. Decision support tends to be used more in association with medical hardware systems that were very early adopters of ML techniques, i.e. things like MRI machines. Here they tend to be used in parallel with existing clinical management policies and often either for assisting diagnostics and/or speeding up processes like image segmentation.
“Whilst diagnostics can fall foul of the issues raised in the paper, it’s not quite the same as the scenarios they explore in that it’s deterministic and following clinical decisions would likely be made using existing processes. Issues here tend to be more performance oriented i.e. false positives (over diagnosis) and false negatives (incorrect or missing diagnosis). These are the metrics that are currently scrutinised in approval processes. So, in short, the issues raised in this paper are in my opinion not quite so acute for diagnostics as currently deployed.”
Professor Ewen Harrison, Professor of Surgery and Data Science and Co-Director of Centre for Medical Informatics at the University of Edinburgh, said:
“Artificial intelligence and computer algorithms are increasingly used in medicine to help make difficult decisions. While these tools promise more accurate and personalised care, this study highlights one of a number of concerning downsides: predictions themselves can unintentionally harm patients by influencing treatment decisions.
“Say a hospital introduces a new AI tool to estimate who is likely to have a poor recovery after knee replacement surgery. The tool uses characteristics such as age, body weight, existing health problems, and physical fitness.
“Initially, doctors intend to use this tool to decide which patients would benefit from intensive rehabilitation therapy. However, due to limited availability and cost, it is decided instead to reserve intensive rehab primarily for patients predicted to have the best outcomes. Patients labelled by the algorithm as having a “poor predicted recovery” receive less attention, fewer physiotherapy sessions, and less encouragement overall.
“As a result, these patients indeed experience slower recovery, higher pain, and reduced mobility, seemingly confirming the accuracy of the prediction tool. In reality, however, it was the reduced support and resources – triggered by the algorithm’s predictions – that contributed to their poor outcomes. The model has thus created a harmful self-fulfilling prophecy, with accuracy metrics wrongly interpreted as evidence of its success.
“These are real issues affecting AI development in the UK. The researchers emphasise that hospitals and policymakers need to carefully monitor how predictive algorithms are actually used in practice. Doing so can help ensure that AI-driven decisions genuinely benefit patients, rather than inadvertently harming those who most need help.”
Prof Ian Simpson, Professor of Biomedical Informatics, University of Edinburgh, said:
“This is an important and timely study adding to emerging evidence that the long established dependence on predictive performance when evaluating AI models is not sufficient to support their deployment in healthcare settings. This study undertakes a formal theoretical approach to explore the relationship between model performance (how well a model predicts) and model calibration (how reliable the probabilities of those predictions are) in both pre- and post- model deployment scenarios. The study finds that, even in simple settings, models that have good performance and calibration properties could lead to worse patient outcomes if deployed.
“Intuitively, it would seem that implementing models with the best performance would be desirable, if not essential, however these models are typically trained on historical data. This bakes in relationships so that any future change in treatment from the historical process which changes a patient outcome favourably would paradoxically result in a drop in model performance during deployment. This could result in positive changes in treatment decisions leading to the withdrawal of the model due to a drop in performance below an acceptable level despite it leading to an improvement in patient outcomes. One of the interesting findings in this study is that drops in model performance on deployment could actually be evidence of a model performing well and that where models do not change performance upon deployment it may mean that the model is in fact not effective at all; it simply reinforces existing practice.
“The authors find that over a wide range of settings there is risk of “self-fulfilling prophecy” where the historical training used to develop models hard-wires decisions or worse actively disadvantages groups of patients for whom treatment changes from the established process would be beneficial. They posit a scenario where patients with a fast-growing tumour receive a decision not to undergo palliative radiotherapy based on the poor survival time predicted by the model. Patients with slower growing tumours are recommended for treatment as the model predicts a longer survival time, justifying the side-effects of the treatment. However in this scenario radiotherapy is ineffective for slow growing tumours, but highly effective for aggressive ones; the model supports exactly the wrong outcome.
“This work, building on findings by others in recent years, provides further evidence for a need to shift focus from predictive performance to an explicit consideration of the effects on patient outcomes of changes in treatment choice. The gold-standard for such are long-established in healthcare; randomised control trials designed to directly measure the effectiveness of new interventions in deployment. Regulation for AI tools is evolving rapidly around the world, but these are primarily focussed on performance both pre- and post- deployment which, as this study shows, fails to capture their effectiveness in practice and risks reinforcing bias from historical data.
“Whilst at first glance this work might seem alarming it is in fact a very encouraging development highlighting essential considerations for how to evaluate and use AI models in healthcare. These deepen our understanding of how to improve their safety and clinical effectiveness and, crucially, emphasises the importance of randomised control trials and deep integration of clinical knowledge into model development.”
Dr Catherine Menon, Principal Lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire’s Department of Computer Science, said:
“This study presents results that show the risks of doctors using AI prediction models to make treatment decisions. This happens when AI models have been trained on historical data, where the data does not necessarily account for such factors as historical under-treatment of some medical conditions or demographics. These models will accurately predict poor outcomes for patients in these demographics. This creates a “self-fulfilling prophecy” if doctors decide not to treat these patients due to the associated treatment risks and the fact that the AI predicts a poor outcome for them. Even worse, this perpetuates the same historic error: under-treating these patients means that they will continue to have poorer outcomes. Useof these AI models therefore risks worsening outcomes for patients who have typically been historically discriminated against in medical settings due to factors such as race, gender or educational background.
“This demonstrates the inherent importance of evaluating AI decisions in context, and applying human reasoning and assessment to AI judgements. AIs might be accurate, but they can only understand a limited subset of the entire landscape around treatment decisions. This has important real-world implications because it shows that human oversight and sound ethical assessment of AI models is necessary if treatment decisions are going to be made based on the predictions of these AI models. Use of AI without human oversight in this context risks embedding further discrimination and disenfranchisement into medical systems.
“This also has important real-world implications beyond the medical domain. Uses of AI such as the “homicide prediction project” highlighted in https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/apr/08/uk-creating-prediction-tool-to-identify-people-most-likely-to-kill may also lead to the same result. Certain demographics which have historically been over-policed and are over-represented within the justice system may suffer from the same AI-predicted poorer outcomes as those discussed within this medical study. This demonstrates the wider power of such predictive AI models, and the necessity to fully understand their training and scope before using them.”
Dr James N. Weinstein, Innovation and Health Equity, Microsoft Research, Health Futures, said:
“While prediction models are often praised for their accuracy, this research highlights a critical flaw: even well-performing models can lead to harmful self-fulfilling prophecies when used for treatment decisions. It’s essential to evaluate these models based on their real-world impact on patient outcomes rather than just predictive accuracy. Emphasizing “informed choice,” where medical decisions are guided by a patient’s values and preferences, is crucial to ensure that treatment and outcome decisions evolve with the patient’s condition over time.”
References:
Patient-Reported Data Can Help People Make Better Health Care Choices, William B. Weeks, MD and Dr. James N. Weinstein. September 21, 2015: Harvard Business Review
Effects of Viewing an Evidence-Based Video Decision Aid on Patients’ Treatment Preferences for Spine Surgery, Jon D. Lurie, MD, MS, Kevin F. Spratt, PhD, Emily A. Blood, MS, Tor D. Tosteson, ScD, Anna N. A. Tosteson, ScD, and James N. Weinstein, DO, MS, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH, USA Spine (Phila Pa 1976). August 15, 2011; 36(18): 1501–1504. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e3182055c1e.
GenAI and Patient Choice: A New Era of Informed Healthcare, Dr. Peter Bonis and Dr. Jim Weinstein. February 28, 2025: Patient Safety & Quality Healthcare
‘When accurate prediction models yield harmful self-fulfilling prophecies’ by Wouter A.C. van Amsterdam et al. was published in Patterns at 16:00 UK time Friday 11 April 2025.
DOI: 10.1016/j.patter.2025.101229
Declared interests
Prof Ewen Harrison: EMH receives grant funding from the NIHR, Wellcome Leap, UKRI and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
Prof Ian Simpson: I have consulted for, and received funding from, pharmaceutical companies including UCB and AstraZeneca. I also lead the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in Biomedical Innovation that has many industry partners.
Dr Jim Weinstein: employee of Microsoft Research which is a research subsidiary of Microsoft.
For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.
overnor Kathy Hochul today celebrated April 11 as the inaugural New York Craft Beer Day in New York State. New York is the second largest craft beer market in the U.S. and has more than 500 independent craft breweries that support 22,000 jobs and generate a $4.8 billion economic impact across the state.
“Today, we raise a glass to more than 500 craft breweries across New York — small businesses that pour $4.8 billion into our economy and flavor into our communities,” Governor Hochul said. “On this Craft Brewers Day, let’s toast their creativity, their grit and their impact. And remember — if you’re going to celebrate, celebrate responsibly. Cheers!”
The Governor made this announcement at the recent New York State Craft Brewers Association Conference and competition in Albany where she awarded the 2025 Governor’s Excelsior Craft Beer Cup to Brooklyn’s Grimm Artisanal Ales for their Grimm Weisse wheat beer. A full list of winners can be found here.
To commemorate New York Craft Beer Day, patrons can download the free Official New York State Craft Beer App, created by the NYS Brewers Association, to find local breweries and is the only app that offers a map of every brewery in the state. To commemorate Craft Beer Day, customers can earn the exclusive “Inaugural New York Craft Beer Day Badge” with any passport stamp on Friday, April 11th.
Governor Hochul’s Support for Craft Producers
In 2023, Governor Hochul signed legislation providing breweries the option to renew their licenses every three years instead of annually, saving brewers $800 — or about 30 percent — in fees over three years. This change not only lowers costs but also reduces paperwork, allowing brewers to spend less time on administrative tasks and more time focusing on their craft and growing their businesses.
Additionally, recognizing the importance of helping craft producers open quickly, Governor Hochul signed legislation that went into effect in 2022 creating new temporary permits for all craft beverage manufacturers — including breweries. For the first time, manufacturers can now begin operating while their full liquor license is pending. These permits, which cost $125 and are valid for six months, allow new producers to begin manufacturing and selling alcoholic beverages while they await final approval. Temporary permits are generally processed in under 30 days, compared to the average six-month timeline for full licenses — significantly accelerating the launch of new craft beverage businesses across the state.
Continuing to build on New York State’s push to modernize outdated Prohibition alcohol laws, in 2024, Governor Hochul signed landmark legislation that allowed New York’s small craft manufacturers of spirits, cider and mead to ship directly to consumers. The law opens significant opportunities for the state’s growing craft beverage industry by providing a vital market expansion tool — allowing these producers to ship their unique products directly to consumers within New York and across state lines.
The craft beverage industry also provides a boost to New York agriculture as New York State has seen increased interest in locally produced craft beverages in recent years. This interest in locally produced beverages has increased demand for locally sourced ingredients. To continue to support the research needed to develop crop varietals of hops and barley that are disease resistant and can adapt to the climate in the northeast, the 2024-25 NYS Budget included more than $650,000 in funding to Cornell for the Geneva Barley program and the hops breeding program.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “New York’s world-class craft brewers are reflective of New York’s long legacy in the craft brewery industry, committed to making the finest beers, using the very best ingredients, including those straight from the farm. I thank Governor Hochul for declaring today Craft Beer Day here in New York State; this celebration provides us all an awesome opportunity to recognize our brewers and their contributions to our local economies, from supporting jobs and tourism to boosting growth in the agricultural industry.”
State Liquor Authority Chair Lily Fan said, “New York’s craft brewers are among the most innovative and entrepreneurial in the country — constantly pushing boundaries with new flavors, creative branding and a true dedication to quality. In today’s competitive market, that kind of ingenuity deserves our support. Thanks to the leadership of Governor Hochul and the close collaboration with our partners at Empire State Development and the Department of Agriculture and Markets, the State Liquor Authority is proud to play a role in helping brewers across New York produce more, sell more, open quickly and save on overhead. We’re excited to celebrate the inaugural New York Craft Beer Day on April 11th — and we hope it brings new fans, fresh energy and increased foot traffic to taprooms across our state. Cheers to our craft brewers — and as always, drink responsibly and stay safe.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “New York’s community of diverse and creative craft breweries spans the entire state, creating unique libations and destinations that welcome residents and visitors alike. Breweries bring energy into our downtown areas, while supporting jobs and local economies. New York Craft Beer Day is a perfect opportunity to raise a glass and celebrate the New Yorkers who brew the distinctive drafts, and to support the small businesses that keep our communities quenched.”
Executive Director of the New York State Brewer’s Association Paul Leone said,“Beer has been part of New York’s history since the early 1600’s when the first known brewery was built on the southern tip of New Amsterdam, which is now Manhattan. Today there are over 500 breweries scattered throughout every region of the state, thanks to the passion and dedication of the craft brewers, owners and the customers that keep their small businesses alive. We are so honored that Governor Hochul would proclaim April 11th New York Craft Beer Day starting in 2025, which will give us one day every year to shine an extra bright light on an industry that employs over 22,000 hard working New Yorkers, and will give craft beer fans one more reason to celebrate and raise a glass to New York State craft beer!”
State Senator Michelle Hincheysaid, “New York’s inaugural Craft Beer Day is a well-earned toast to the producers who’ve turned their passion into one of our state’s most beloved agricultural sectors. From grain to glass, craft beer is creating jobs, contributing to the economic resurgence of our upstate communities, and keeping New York ingredients in New York products. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners of the 2025 NYS Craft Beer Awards, including the outstanding brewers representing the Hudson Valley. We’re thrilled to celebrate the care and craftsmanship behind every batch and the pride it brings to so many hometowns across New York State.”
Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “Cheers to New York Craft Beer. A special day devoted to celebrating NY’s amazing craft brewers and their products is very much appreciated. Some of the finest craft beer in the country can be found in every region of the state.”
In addition, New York State, through its New York State Grown & Certified and Taste NY programs, continues to support New York’s craft beverage industry and its’ breweries through direct marketing, social media and a number of special initiatives and events that spotlight the industry, including at sports arenas and venues across the State. For example, Taste NY is partnering with Minor League Baseball teams across New York State again this year, and in 2024, brought the very best of New York’s local food and beverages, including local craft beverages, to more than 1.2 million fans at stadiums across New York. In 2023 and 2024, Taste NY sponsored a Tasting Yard at the Great New York State Fair, which featured a rotating selection of New York State craft breweries over the course of the Fair, giving visitors a taste of New York’s world-class craft beverage products and giving brewers the opportunity to meet new customers as nearly one million visitors come through the Fair gates.
With increasing bear activity expected throughout the coming spring and summer months, Albertans are reminded to take appropriate precautions when spending time outdoors.
“As bears return to the landscape, we ask everyone enjoying Alberta’s trails, parks and great outdoors to be alert and take the necessary steps to avoid conflicts. Bear safety is a shared responsibility, and simple precautions can help prevent serious encounters.”
“Safety in bear country depends on our awareness and preparedness; we urge all Albertans to respect wildlife and follow safety guidelines to ensure both human and bear safety during this active season.”
Spring marks a high-risk period for human-bear encounters, as black and grizzly bears and their cubs emerge from dens in search of food. Natural food sources are limited early in the season, which can draw bears closer to trails, roads, campsites and residential areas.
The prime time for bear activity each year is from May until October. Bears may be attracted to unsecured garbage, pet food, compost, birdseed and natural or decorative fruit. Reducing attractants and remaining vigilant are key to preventing unwanted encounters.
Public safety guidance
Anyone spending time outdoors in bear country is urged to take the following precautions:
Travel in groups and stay on official trails.
Make noise regularly to avoid surprising a bear.
Keep dogs on a leash at all times.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Store food, garbage and other attractants in bear-resistant containers or facilities.
Avoid areas with fresh signs of bear activity such as tracks, scat or diggings.
Backcountry users, hikers, campers and anglers should exercise increased caution around lakeshores, creeks, berry patches and areas with limited visibility. Bears often use these locations as travel routes and feeding areas.
In the event of a bear encounter
Remain calm and do not run.
Back away slowly while speaking in a calm, firm voice.
If a bear approaches, prepare to use bear spray when within range.
Bear sightings or incidents in Kananaskis Country can be reported to Kananaskis Emergency Services at 403-591-7755.
If outside Kananaskis Country, Albertans are reminded that they can report any bear sightings or dangerous wildlife activity to Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services by calling 1-800-642-3800.
ATLANTA (April 11, 2025) — Sen. Kenya Wicks (D–Fayette), who represents Georgia’s 34th Senate District, spoke about her first legislative session under the Gold Dome. As a freshman senator, Wicks described the 2025 Legislative Session as “an incredible experience” and expressed her deep gratitude for the mentorship and support from Democratic leadership and colleagues.
“This session, I introduced Senate Bills 190, 236, and 273 and co-authored SB 26 and SB 85. I also was proud to introduce Senate Resolution 141, which dedicated a road for former Senator Valencia Seay. I would not have been unable to do this without my team and the incredible mentorship and support I received from Democratic leadership and my colleagues. Together, we passed a state budget including $19.5 million for student mental health support and additional funding to expand access to the HOPE Scholarship.”
Sen. Wicks continued by speaking on her plans for the interim and thanking her constituents. “Constituent services remain at the forefront of my priorities—alongside veterans’ affairs, seniors’ rights, workforce development, education and economic growth. I’m committed to continuing the fight for the people of District 34 and all Georgians. To my constituents, thank you for trusting me to be your voice. I came to the Gold Dome ready to work, and I’m just getting started.”
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Sen. Kenya Wicks represents the 34th Senate District, which includes portions of Clayton and Fayette Counties. She may be reached by email atKenya.Wicks@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out toSenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
WASHINGTON – Today, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem reminded all foreign nationals present in the United Stated longer than 30 days that the deadline to register under the Alien Registration Act is coming up on April 11.
This law requires all aliens in the United States for more than 30 days to register with the federal government. Failure to comply is a crime, punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both.
“President Trump and I have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream,”said Secretary Noem.“The Trump administration will enforce all our immigration laws—we will not pick and choose which laws we will enforce. We must know who is in our country for the safety and security of our homeland and all Americans.”
BACKGROUND:
On January 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, directing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to restore order and accountability to our immigration system. This includes enforcing the long-ignored Alien Registration Act.
COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS:
On or by April 11, 2025, the following will apply to all noncitizens, regardless of status:
Present in the U.S. for 30 days or more as of April 11, 2025, without registration evidence: Register immediately via USCIS.
Entering on or after April 11, 2025, without registration evidence: Register within 30 days of arrival.
Turning 14 in the U.S.: Re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of your 14th birthday, even if previously registered.
Parents or guardians of minors under 14: Register minors if they remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer.
Upon registration and fingerprinting, DHS will issue proof of registration. All noncitizens 18 and older must carry this documentation at all times. This administration has directed DHS to prioritize enforcement, there will be no sanctuary for noncompliance.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)
Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), alongside Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), reintroduced the Promoting Affordable Childcare for Everyone (PACE) Act to bolster existing federal childcare tax incentives and improve access to affordable and high-quality child care for American families.
The PACE Act would update the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and enhance Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (DCFSAs) to make the credit refundable and allow for annual updates to keep both incentives effective and provide more financial support for working parents. This legislation increases the amount of pre-tax dollars parents can put into the accounts from $5,000 to $7,500, which indexes the new cap to inflation to allow DCFSAs to keep pace with the cost of childcare.
“Hardworking families should not have to spend their entire paycheck on affordable, quality child care. The PACE Act supports working families and childcare professionals by increasing the Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts cap and expanding the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to keep up with today’s economy. This pro-family bill modernizes federal child care incentives, increases accessibility, and ensures lower-income and working families can provide quality care for their children,” said Congresswoman Tenney.
“The cost of quality childcare has only gone up while the existing provisions in our tax code that help with these costs haven’t been updated in decades. Childcare costs are crushing too many families across the country — it’s long past time we enhance them to provide substantive financial support for working families and ensure they remain effective going forward. I’m proud to join Rep. Tenney send this lifeline to families struggling to afford care for their kids,” said Congressman Schneider.
“Child care costs are continuing to rise, and working parents simply can’t keep up,” said FFYF Executive Director Sarah Rittling. “The Promoting Affordable Childcare for Everyone (PACE) Act takes a significant step towards making care more affordable by updating two important tax provisions: the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) and Dependent Care Assistance Plans (DCAP). This legislation is a direct investment in hardworking families who need support as they look to re-enter or stay in the workforce, and we are grateful to Reps. Claudia Tenney and Brad Schneider for their work to provide much-needed relief to parents and caregivers.”
Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Jim Risch (R-ID), co-chairs of the Senate Working Forests Caucus, are introducing bipartisan legislation to improve forest industry employment and participation through a grant program aimed at rural and underserved communities. The Jobs in the Woods Act would support developmental programs designed to better equip and train the forest products workforce for careers with the U.S. Forest Service and timber industries. Nationally, the forest products industry employs roughly 925,000 people directly and supports nearly 2 million jobs indirectly. In Maine, the industry supports nearly 14,000 jobs across the state.
“Maine’s forestry industry has been foundational for our state economy for generations, and we want to sustain it for generations to come,” said Senator King. “As the industry continues to evolve, we must ensure our forestry workforce has the proper training and skills to help responsibly manage our forests while strengthening our local economies. The bipartisan Jobs in the Woods Act is commonsense legislation that will invest in new and innovative workforce programs — helping Maine people get quality, good-paying jobs and securing the future of our state’s iconic timber industry.”
“A robust and skilled workforce is critical to Idaho’s forest and economic health,” said Senator Risch. “My Jobs in the Woods Act will equip rural communities to build up the timber industry with educational and training programs to ensure Idaho continues to effectively manage our forests and prevent catastrophic wildfires for years to come.”
“The Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast applauds Senator King for sponsoring and introducing the Jobs in the Woods Act and we fully support this important legislation at a critical time for the logging industry,” said Dana Doran, Executive Director of the Professional Logging Contractors Northeast. “Our existing logging and forest trucking workforce is aging, and targeted workforce education and training programs are needed to provide pathways to good paying careers in the woods to ensure the industry’s future. Opportunities are strong for the next generation, particularly in the rural areas where this legislation would have the greatest impact.”
“A strong, economically viable forest products industry depends on a healthy wood supply chain — and that starts with a skilled, supported workforce. The Jobs in the Woods Act invests in workforce development and education in rural, forest-based communities,” said Tim O’Hara, Forest Resources Association President. “By supporting training programs focused on forestry-related careers, this legislation creates pathways for the next generation to pursue meaningful careers in forestry, logging, log transportation, sawmilling, and beyond — right in the communities they call home.”
The forestry and forest products industry relies on the strength and resilience of our rural communities and the rural economy. We need to ensure that this rural economy can persist and to do so we need a strong workforce with the skillsets that can sustainably support our forest,” said Alexander Ingraham, President of Pinetree Associates. “Workforce development is a critical need for these communities, the forest, and the forest products industry to sustain and thrive. The Jobs in the Woods Act sets a pathway towards a thriving workforce and a sustainable rural economy.
The Jobs in the Woods Act is cosponsored by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jim Crapo (R-ID), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tina Smith (D-MN) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).
As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senator King is seen as a national leader in efforts to support Maine’s forest products industry. He also introduced the bipartisan Future Logging Careers Act to help train the next generation of Maine loggers. Previously, Senator King introduced the bipartisan Timber Innovation Act for Building Rural Communities Act to improve forest health and support Maine’s rural economy. He also introduced legislation to establish a “Future of Forests” panel tasked with making recommendations to secure the health of America’s forests. Senator King was key in establishing the Forest Opportunity Roadmap Maine (FOR/ME) Initiative, a participant-led initiative that is helping to diversify the state’s wood products businesses, attract investments, support research and development, and develop greater economic prosperity for rural communities impacted by mill closures.
Source: The White House
From the Department of Government Efficiency:
“Under the Biden administration, it was routine for Border Patrol to admit aliens into the United States with no legal status and minimal screening. So far, CBP identified a subset of 6.3k individuals paroled into the United States since 2023 on the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Center watchlist or with criminal records. These paroles have since been terminated with immediate effect.
Despite having no other legal status, paroled aliens are able to file for work authorization and receive social security numbers. Among these 6.3k paroled aliens with criminal or terrorist records (all have a social security number):
– 905 collecting Medicaid (including 4 on the terrorist watch list). $276k was paid out– 41 collecting Unemployment Insurance, receiving $42k in benefits– 22 received federal student loans totaling $280k– 409 received {net} tax refunds (2024 only) for $751k– Several (final number TBD) received SNAP (food stamp) benefits”
Click here to see @DOGE’s X post.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)
WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, and Veronica Escobar (TX-16) sent a letter to President Donald Trump calling on him to end his administration’s use of detention for families and children.
“The last Administration rightfully ended the use of family detention because it is well-documented that detaining children, regardless of the length of detention, causes lasting harm, and yet does nothing to deter migration,” wrote the Members.
The Biden administration recognized the harm of family detention and stopped relying on this outdated and expensive form of immigration enforcement. However, the Trump administration has brought it back despite numerous studies proving that family detention subjects children to significant psychological trauma and long-term mental health risks.
“Multiple administrations have tried to use family detention, only to find it does nothing to prevent families from seeking safety here and instead serves only to traumatize new generations of children,” the Members continued.
Detaining families with children is cruel and unnecessary. There are humane solutions to ensure families comply with immigration proceedings while saving taxpayers money. The Family Case Management Program (FCMP) used case managers to ensure clear assistance to those navigating the immigration system. It produced a 99 percent compliance rate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and immigration court requirements, without relying on detention. FCMP also costs taxpayers only $36 per day while detention can cost up to $319.
The full text of the letter can be read here.
The letter was also signed by Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), André Carson (IN-07), Greg Casar (TX-35), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Gerald Connolly (VA-11), Lou Correa (CA-46), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Jason Crow (CO-06), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Silvia Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Al Green (TX-09), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sarah Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Summer Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Summer Lee (PA-12), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda T. Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), David Scott (GA-13), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Mark Takano (CA-39), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).
It is also endorsed by Alianza Americas; American Immigration Council; American Immigration Lawyers Association; Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC; Bend the Arc: Jewish Action; Caring Across Generations; Center for Gender & Refugee Studies; Center for Law and Social Policy; Center for Victims of Torture; Children’s Defense Fund; Church World Service; Coalition on Human Needs; Global Refuge; Government Accountability Project; Human Rights First; Immigration Equality; Immigration Law & Justice Network; Innovation Law Lab; Instituto para las Mujeres en la Migración (IMUMI); International Refugee Assistance Project; Kids in Need of Defense; Kino Border Initiative; Lawyers for Good Government (L4GG); MPower Change Action Fund; National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum; National Education Association; National Immigrant Justice Center; National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice; National Partnership for New Americans; People’s Action Institute; Refugee Council USA; Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights; Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team; Stop AAPI Hate; T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights; The Advocates for Human Rights; UndocuBlack Network; United We Dream; Witness at the Border; Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights; Al Otro Lado; AVAN Immigrant Services; Children’s Defense Fund-Texas; Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice Ventura County (CLUE VC); Colorado Asylum Center; East Bay Sanctuary Covenant; Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project; Free Migration Project; Immigrant Children Advocates’ Relief Effort (ICARE); Immigrant Defenders Law Center; Immigration Services and Legal Advocacy; Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity; Midwest Immigration Bond Fund; New York Immigration Coalition; Oasis Legal Services; Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA); Presbytery of the Pacific, PCUSA; Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network; Services, Immigrant Rights & Education Network (SIREN); Voices for Utah Children.
Headline: Around the Air Force: Skyraider II Delivers Lethality, Strengthening Aeromedical Support, Deployable Combat Wings
In this week’s look Around the Air Force, Special Operations Command accepts the first missionized OA-1K Skyraider II, the 48O aeromedical physician designation addresses a critical shortage of flight surgeons, and the announcement of candidate locations to build deployable combat wings.