Source: US State of Connecticut
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today held a news briefing to provide updates on Connecticut’s response to the ongoing defunding of programs and services by the federal government. Today’s briefing focused on the impact to emergency response and storm resiliency efforts in the face of extreme weather events and natural disasters.
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WATCH: Today’s news briefing on federal defunding of programs and services
Source: US State of Connecticut
Dear Colleagues and Students,
In light of issues related to immigration enforcement nationally and ongoing discussions around potential policy and legal changes at the federal level in this area, the University has, understandably, received numerous questions and concerns from faculty, staff, and students.
UConn is a global community with students, faculty, and staff from throughout the world. We want to do all we can to share information and resources that may be useful to those community members who are impacted, or potentially impacted, during this challenging time.
To that end, we have created a webpage listing helpful legal resources and community partners who can provide assistance to students and employees in need of help related to their immigration status. We will update the site as additional resources are identified.
One of the questions that is most frequently asked has to do with the University providing or funding legal representation for employees and students who may be accused of being out of compliance with immigration laws.
The University cannot devote resources to funding or otherwise supporting what would be considered the personal costs of individual students and employees based on their association with UConn. This would be using public resources to provide a private benefit not available to the general public.
Although the University is prohibited from offering legal representation or financial assistance for legal representation, we remain committed to doing anything we can to support our students, faculty, and staff on this or any issue.
If an employee requires general guidance about their employment-based visa sponsorship, please do not hesitate to reach out to Alison Cutler or Christene Cooper in Human Resources.
For such guidance related to student visa sponsorship, please see the Center for International Students and Scholars (CISS) website for information or email International@uconn.edu.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support for one another during this challenging time.
Source: US State of Connecticut
To the University Community,
UConn prides itself on being both one of Connecticut’s greatest assets and a global university. We attract outstanding students from our state as well as students, faculty, and staff from more than 100 other countries to engage in world-class research and scholarship in our state. UConn faculty, staff, and students contribute to Connecticut’s future and help to change the world for the better through advances and innovation in a multitude of fields.
As a follow-up to last week’s message on immigration resources and information: You may be aware of recent reports of student visa revocations and SEVIS record terminations disrupting the lives and academic careers of international students and scholars in the U.S.
These actions have touched UConn as well, and while the number of impacted students here is small, consequences for those impacted are significant. UConn, through its International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) unit, monitors the SEVIS records of our international students and visiting scholars on F and J visas daily, auditing records for any changes initiated by external government officials.
At the first sign of a change, the ISSS will email the student or visiting scholar to inform them of the update and ask them to visit the Center for International Student and Scholar Services (CISS) to meet with a staff member who can connect the student to legal resources and university support services.
ISSS will also notify the student or scholar’s department head and dean so that the student’s academic unit can provide appropriate support. Each student or visiting scholar’s situation is unique, and support for each case is coordinated through ISSS in collaboration with many campus partners, including the Dean of Students Office, The Graduate School, the Division of Student Life and Enrollment, the Cultural Centers, academic deans, and department heads.
UConn Health’s International Office administers a separate SEVIS program and will follow similar procedures. To date, no cases have impacted international students and scholars at UConn Health.
Our university units are working together to prepare our campuses and respond as quickly as possible to this rapidly evolving situation. In February, UConn established a rapid response team to address immigration policy changes impacting our community. The team is co-chaired by Rae Alexander, Assistant Vice President for Global Affairs, and Fany DeJesus Hannon, Dean of Students. It includes representation from the Office of the General Counsel, The Graduate School, the Division of Student Life and Enrollment, University Communications, and UConn Police.
We understand that there are multiple conversations happening on campus about this important issue. We invite you to send your inquiries to Rae Alexander, rae.alexander@uconn.edu, to ensure your questions and concerns reach the team.
You may be asking what you can do at this time:
We also want to remind students of the mental health support services available to them:
International students at UConn Health:
International students at UConn Storrs and the regional campuses:
International employees, including graduate assistants represented by the GEU at UConn Storrs and regional campuses:
International employees at UConn Health:
Finally, we encourage everyone to bookmark the new Legal Resources and Community Partners webpage, which will be updated as information and resources are confirmed.
If you have not been directly impacted by what has been happening in the U.S., now is the time to check in on your friends and fellow Huskies who may be feeling scared and isolated. Now is the time for us as a community to support each other.
Source: US State of Oregon
regon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner, MD, asked beneficiaries of state managed retirement funds to remain calm and patient as markets gyrate following the Trump administration’s recent tariff announcements. Treasurer Steiner urged the President to rescind the tariffs that have destabilized the finances of Oregonians and Americans.
The Oregon State Treasury (OST) manages investments for more than 400,000 beneficiaries of the Oregon Public Employee Retirement Fund (OPERF), 132,000 beneficiaries of OregonSaves (which provides automatic savings for employees of businesses who do not offer a retirement plan) and other savings accounts. In addition, OST manages investments for the Common School Fund and the Short Term Fund, on behalf of schools and state and local agencies. OST has approximately $140 billion in assets under management.
Treasurer Steiner said:
” know that concerns about the unfolding economic situation are weighing on the minds of many Oregonians. I want beneficiaries to know that Treasury stands with you during these difficult times. We know what’s at stake in your savings and we are managing the funds entrusted to us with your long-term well-being foremost in our minds. I ask for your patience as we navigate these rough waters together.
Treasury’s investment strategies are designed to buffer the impact of market turmoil on the state’s retirement, savings and public agency portfolios. The turmoil of the past week has not spared our funds. Yet, we know that our portfolio is well diversified to withstand these types of market shocks better than less diversified portfolios. We will continue to uphold our fiduciary responsibility to you and put the needs of the people and communities we serve first.
I once again call on President Trump to change course and revoke these reckless tariffs. The trillions in savings that have evaporated from United States markets in recent days represents the hopes of millions of people saving for retirement, college, the down payment on a house, launching a business or other aspirations.
I urge the administration to read the room: Markets are tumbling, and consumers are bracing for the fallout by cutting spending. People in our state cannot afford this unwanted and unnecessary $3,800 per household tax hike, especially at a time when half of Oregonians do not have $500 available to handle an emergency. Rescind these tariffs, so Oregonians and Americans can continue to confidently create opportunity and pursue their dreams through hard work and innovation, without the economic pain and uncertainty the administration’s arbitrary and chaotic trade policies have caused.”
Source: US State of Pennsylvania
April 10, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA
In honor of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) and Office of Victim Advocate, teamed up with statewide victim advocacy organizations to highlight the importance of supporting survivors, raising awareness of their rights, and Governor Shapiro’s proposed $9 million investment in the Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) in the 2025-26 state budget.
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week highlights the importance of ensuring that victims of crime receive the support, protection, and justice they deserve. Last year, over 323,000 Pennsylvanians were victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, gun violence, assault, human trafficking, homicide, and other crimes.
“Ensuring that victims are informed, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey is our top priority. No crime victim should have to worry about paying for medical care, no family should face the stress of funeral costs, and no survivor of sexual assault should have to choose between healing and financial hardship,” said Kathy Buckley, Director of PCCD’s Office of Victims’ Services. “This week is about making sure victims know their rights-including their right to financial support to help through some of their most difficult times.”
Speakers Include:
Kathy Buckley, Director of the Office of Victims’ Services, PCCD
Suzanne Estrella, Pennsylvania Victim Advocate
Rebecca Buckham, Communications Manager, Children’s Advocacy Centers of PA (PennCAC)
Gabriella Romeo, Public Policy Director, PA Coalition to Advance Respect (PCAR)
Jenna Mehnert Baker, Policy Director, PA Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV)
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
MIAMI, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hut 8 Corp. (Nasdaq | TSX: HUT) (“Hut 8” or the “Company”), an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing, today announced it will release financial results for the first quarter of 2025 before the market opens on May 8, 2025. The Company will host a conference call and webcast to review the results on the same day at 8:30 a.m. ET.
Conference Call and Webcast Details
Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
Time: 8:30 a.m. ET
Investors can join the live webcast here. Analysts can register here.
Supplemental Materials and Upcoming Communications
The Company expects to make available on its website materials designed to accompany the discussion of its results, along with certain supplemental financial information and other data. For important news and information regarding the Company, including investor presentations and timing of future investor conferences, visit the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website, https://hut8.com/investors, and its social media accounts, including on X and LinkedIn. The Company uses its website and social media accounts as primary channels for disclosing key information to its investors, some of which may contain material and previously non-public information.
About Hut 8
Hut 8 Corp. is an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-potential computing. We take a power-first, innovation-driven approach to developing, commercializing, and operating the critical infrastructure that underpins the breakthrough technologies of today and tomorrow. Our platform spans 1,020 megawatts of energy capacity under management across 15 sites in the United States and Canada: five ASIC Colocation and Managed Services sites in Alberta, New York, and Texas, five high performance computing data centers in British Columbia and Ontario, four power generation assets in Ontario, and one non-operational site in Alberta. For more information, visit www.hut8.com and follow us on X at @Hut8Corp.
Hut 8 Corp. Investor Relations
Sue Ennis
ir@hut8.com
Hut 8 Corp. Public Relations
Gautier Lemyze-Young
gautier.young@hut8.com
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) has joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers in co-sponsoring the Prevent Tariff Abuse Act, a bill aimed at protecting American families, workers, and farmers from unfair and unnecessary tax hikes disguised as “emergency” tariffs. The bill makes it clear that no president should be able to raise taxes on everyday Americans without approval from Congress.
“Tariffs are taxes—plain and simple—and when presidents abuse their power to impose them without warning, it’s hardworking families and farmers in Central and Northwestern Illinois who pay the price,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “This bill protects our communities from skyrocketing prices and economic retaliation. Our small businesses, manufacturers, and agriculture producers deserve a fair and stable economy—not uncertainty created by impulsive decisions made behind closed doors.”
The Prevent Tariff Abuse Act is a response to recent threats to impose massive tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, China, and even allies in Europe—all without proper Congressional oversight. These actions could lead to the largest tax increase on American consumers in a generation, raising prices on everything from groceries to gas.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Aaron Bean Florida (4th District)
WASHINGTON—U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 22, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act. The SAVE Act is a commonsense bill to ensure only American citizens vote in our federal elections by requiring proof of citizenship to register.
“One citizen, one vote—it’s the pillar of our democracy. Voting is both a sacred right and responsibility of American citizenship, and Americans demand election integrity. Today, House Republicans delivered on our commitment to protect the ballot box, and we passed the SAVE Act to ensure that only American citizens vote in our elections.”
BACKGROUND
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US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) today reintroduced the Fighting Inhumane Gambling and High-Risk Animal Trafficking (FIGHT) Act to enhance national animal fighting laws by providing more tools to law enforcement and citizens to curtail cockfighting and dogfighting.
“Those engaging in dog and cock fights are abusive, organized and dangerous—and their heinous behavior must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. It’s illegal to abuse God’s creatures for sport, and this bill would give law enforcement crucial tools to end this cruel practice,” said Kennedy.
“Animal fighting is cruel, illegal, and unacceptable. It’s time we take stronger action to stop these heinous abuses against animals and protect them from being exploited for entertainment and profit. This bill will tighten enforcement to put a stop to illegal animal fighting,” said Booker.
Despite being criminalized, cockfighting and dogfighting are still common across the country. Cockfights can become hubs of violence because of the illegal activity that often accompanies them.
Cockfighting may also pose a danger to public health during the ongoing avian influenza outbreak, as people who handle bloodied birds risk becoming infected by them.
The FIGHT Act would amend Section 26 of the Animal Welfare Act to strengthen and enhance enforcement against animal fighting. This bill would:
Ban simulcasting and gambling on animal fights in the U.S., no matter where the broadcast signals for dogfights and cockfights originate.
Halt shipments of mature roosters (chickens only) shipped through U.S. mail. This legislation does not address shipments of baby chicks, which are used in accepted agricultural operations. Shipping dogs through the mail is already illegal.
Creates a citizen suit provision allowing private right of action against illegal animal fighters and ease the resource burden on federal agencies.
Enhances forfeiture provisions to include real property used in the commission of an animal fighting crime.
The full bill text of the FIGHT Act is available here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
04.09.25
Click for here for photo and media resources.
WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after honoring the 10-time NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) National Champion North Dakota State University (NDSU) Bison at the White House and U.S. Capitol. Prior to the Bison’s visit to the White House with President Trump, Senator Hoeven and Senator Kevin Cramer hosted a luncheon on Capitol Hill for the Bison, followed by a tour of the U.S. Capitol.
“The NDSU Bison had a tremendous season, winning their 10th FCS championship, but not only that, they are great student athletes who represent our state well every day,” said Hoeven. “When I asked President Trump about bringing the Bison to the White House, he agreed quickly and later even put together a nice video with me doing horns up. We appreciate President Trump honoring their achievements at the White House, and had a wonderful time hosting them at the U.S. Capitol today. The players, coaches and staff are truly deserving of these honors and we look forward to all of their future successes.”
After the Bison won their 10th FCS National Championship earlier this year, Senators Hoeven and Cramer spoke with President Trump to arrange an invitation for the Bison to the White House, and the delegation announced the visit to the White House last month.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing to consider the nominations of William Kimmitt to serve as Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade and Kenneth Kies to serve as the Assistant Treasury Secretary for Tax Policy.
As prepared for delivery:
“This meeting will come to order. Thank you to our nominees, Mr. Kimmitt and Mr. Kies, for being here today. Congratulations on your nominations and thank you both for your willingness to serve.
“Today, we will first hear from William Kimmitt, who is nominated to serve as Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade.
“If confirmed, Mr. Kimmitt will oversee the Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration—or ITA. Importantly, the ITA promotes market access and redresses unfair trade practices. Both functions are critical to American prosperity.
“In terms of market access, American farmers and manufacturers win when they have a chance to compete. ITA helps to facilitate those opportunities.
“Our manufacturing and agricultural industries are second to none and we need to make sure they have opportunities to fairly compete at home and abroad.
“Mr. Kimmitt, given your background, I am confident that you will make important contributions to trade. I look forward to working with you, if confirmed.
“Moving to the other nominee before us today, Kenneth Kies, who is nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy at the Treasury Department.
“The Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy is the senior advisor to the Secretary of the Treasury for analyzing, developing and implementing federal tax policies and programs. Mr. Kies, if confirmed, will be a vital partner in Congress’ efforts to enact pro-growth tax policy and ensure it is properly implemented.
“My Republican colleagues and I are committed to preventing a $4 trillion-plus tax hike on American families and businesses, and to delivering additional tax relief for middle-class workers and families who have struggled to keep up due to historic inflation over the last four years.
“We are also committed to making permanent the proven tax policy of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). Making this tax policy permanent will provide the certainty that businesses need to make long-term investments that drive growth, and will also provide the stability that families need as they save and plan for the future.
“Fear-mongering and mischaracterization aside, the generational reforms we made in 2017 strengthened investment, boosted economic growth, increased take-home pay and reduced poverty.
“The TCJA made the tax code more progressive, helped all Americans keep more of their hard-earned money, and fostered a growing economy that powered median household income to an all-time high.
“Permanently extending and building upon our current tax framework is the best way to restore economic prosperity and opportunity for working families.
“Mr. Kies’ wealth of experience in the world of tax policy makes him eminently qualified to assist us in this effort.
“Mr. Kies spent a total of 47 years as a tax attorney. His experience covers every aspect of the Internal Revenue Code and, since 1981, he has been involved in every significant piece of federal tax legislation. He also has a first-hand understanding of the legislative process, having served as Chief Tax Counsel on the House Ways and Means Committee and as Chief of Staff on the Joint Committee on Taxation.
“Mr. Kies, if confirmed, I look forward to working with you to deliver on President Trump’s economic agenda.
“Thank you again, Mr. Kimmitt and Mr. Kies, for your time today.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation – yesterday questioned Jared Isaacman, the nominee for NASA Administrator, and Olivia Trusty, the nominee to be Commissioner for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), during a hearing to review their nominations.
Sen. Moran questioned Ms. Trusty on spectrum policy, the implementation of the 5G Fund and her vision for the FCC.
“Ms. Trusty, I’m pleased by your nomination; I have great faith in you,” said Sen. Moran. “It’s been my disappointment over time to watch the FCC become much more partisan and incapable of reaching decisions. I would encourage you to use every effort to find solutions to these problems and bring the commission together to serve the American people.”
Sen. Moran questioned Mr. Isaacman on NASA’s plans for the Space Launch System (SLS), parts of which are manufactured in Kansas, and highlighted the Cosmosphere and its importance to Kansas.
“Do you believe the current Artemis architecture featuring the SLS rocket or Orion spacecraft is the best or fastest way to beat China to the Moon,” asked Sen. Moran.
“Senator, this is the current plan, and I do believe it is the best and fastest way to get there,” answered Mr. Isaacman.
Click HERE to watch Sen. Moran’s Questions
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced the Military Installation Retail Security Act to prohibit the Department of Defense (DoD) from authorizing, renewing, or extending long-term retail agreements with companies owned or controlled by adversarial nations on U.S. military bases. The legislation also requires the review of all retail stores on military bases nationwide to determine if there are foreign ties to China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea.
Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) joined Senator Budd in introducing the bill. Congressman Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.-10) introduced the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
“Our military readiness depends upon security and surveillance. Adversarial nations have no place owning and operating businesses on U.S. military bases, all the while gaining personal identification information of American citizens, just to turn a profit. That is why I am proud to introduce the Military Installation Retail Security Act, to close this loophole by taking targeted action to prevent malign actors from embedding themselves within our military communities where they can threaten our national security and exploit personal data,” said Senator Budd.
“We shouldn’t be allowing Chinese-affiliated companies in the United States, let alone on our military bases. This bill will ensure our adversaries can’t exploit our military,” said Senator Cotton.
“Allowing companies controlled by our biggest foreign adversaries – like Communist China, Russia, and North Korea – to operate on U.S. military bases is a completely unacceptable threat to our national security that risks an enemy gaining sensitive personal and military data. The Military Installation Retail Security Act will close the loopholes that allow these bad actors to gain footholds within our military communities, ensuring that our military bases remain secure, and that foreign enemies aren’t profiting off our service members and their families. This should be common sense, and I urge my colleagues to support its quick passage,” said Senator Scott.
“My team uncovered that GNC is fully owned by the Chinese Communist Party and operating more than 80 stores on U.S. military bases. That’s not just a problem; it’s a direct threat to our national security. We moved quickly to get a solution on the table and introduced the Military Installation Retail Security Act in the House. I’m glad to have Senator Budd step in to help drive this forward and make sure CCP-owned companies have zero place inside America’s military infrastructure,” said Congressman Harrigan.
Read the full bill text HERE.
Background
Retail stores on U.S. military bases gain direct and prolonged access to our nation’s servicemembers and their families while operating in a sensitive base environment, which creates serious risks for surveillance. This gives companies, owned by foreign adversaries, unprecedented access to personally identifiable information such as names, payment methods, and purchase history.
GNC—which started as a small, family-owned health-food store in Pittsburgh in 1935—was bought by the Chinese state-owned Harbin Pharmaceutical Group after the supplement retailer filed for bankruptcy in 2020. Currently, this Chinese-owned company operates over 80 locations on U.S. military bases.
On base at North Carolina’s Fort Bragg, GNC operates several storefronts serving 53,700 troops, who make up nearly 10 percent of the U.S. Army alone.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representative Mark Takano (CA-39) introduced the PROTECT Students Act, first of its kind legislation to codify student protections against fraud in every step of the college experience. This is companion legislation to a bill introduced by Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL).
The PROTECT Students Act addresses several areas of the college experience to ensure that students are protected:
Increases oversight by creating uniform reporting and data gathering practices to ensure that complaints against institutions and their contractors, as well as student loan servicers, are investigated and resolved.
Holds universities accountable by ensuring schools are honest about their job placement data, predatoryrecruitment tactics, and ensure that former fraudsters cannot prey on students again.
“Fraudsters are feeling empowered by this Administration, and the American people are looking for their government to do something,” said Rep. Takano. “Students who are hoping to better themselves through a college education deserve protections in law to ensure that the school they choose upholds their promise of high-quality education and a degree. Students deserve to have the backing of laws to take on for-profit colleges, discredited universities, and loan providerswho deceive them.”
“Time and time again, for-profit colleges have scammed students into taking on mountains of student debt without offering a viable degree or career path—and sometimes have even shuttered their doors while a student is enrolled,” said Senator Durbin. “Our students deserve to be protected from the predatory tactics of these for-profit schools. The first Trump Administration let for-profit colleges off the hook by rolling back protections like the Gainful Employment Rule and stopping the review of borrower defense claims. I am introducing the PROTECT Students Act to stand up for students when the Trump Administration won’t by ensuring that for-profit schools are held accountable for taking advantage of students.”
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Source: US Geological Survey
Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. Today’s article was written by Thomas-Jon Hoomanawanui, HVO Systems Administrator.
NVEWS, when fully implemented, will operate through an interoperable network of domestic volcano observatories and utilize advanced technological tools. Central to the success of NVEWS will be the National Volcano Information Service (NVIS), which aims to be the backbone for data management and analysis within the system. NVIS will be an indispensable component of NVEWS, integrating cutting-edge information technology (IT) solutions to ensure efficient monitoring, accurate data interpretation, and effective communication of volcanic hazards.
NVIS will be responsible for collecting, aggregating, storing, and distributing vast amounts of volcano monitoring data from across the country, including earthquake activity, ground deformation, gas emissions, and other phenomena associated with volcanic unrest. NVIS aims to not only integrate data generated directly by volcano observatories (e.g., local instrumentation and on-the-ground measurements), but also satellite imagery provided by partner agencies including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
For instance, several NOAA satellites provide critical thermal imaging capabilities important for ash and hot-spot detection, while satellite missions operated by NASA and other parties can provide detailed radar observations of volcanic terrains. These technologies enable continuous monitoring of volcanic activity, even in remote or hard-to-reach locations. The integration of satellite data with future and existing ground-based sensors will ensure that NVIS has a comprehensive view of volcanic conditions.
NVIS IT systems will need to be robust, capable of ingesting and processing large data streams in real-time, which will require sophisticated storage solutions and efficient database management systems. NVIS must employ advanced technologies to potentially utilize petabytes of information (equivalent to about a thousand terabytes or a million gigabytes!), ensuring that historical data is preserved and accessible for analysis. NVIS will leverage scalable cloud-based storage solutions where applicable, given the exponential growth in data generated by increased volcanic monitoring efforts.
The success of NVEWS depends on the ability to distribute timely and accurate information to stakeholders. NVIS will play a key role in ensuring that this happens through user-friendly interfaces and standardized software tools. For example, online platforms, provided via NVIS, will be accessible to academic researchers, government agencies, and even the general public. By providing a common set of information systems and tools, NVIS can enable scientists and decision makers to work together seamlessly, regardless of their physical location. This collaborative environment is crucial for analyzing complex volcanic datasets and developing actionable insights.
One of the most significant contributions of IT to the success of NVIS lies in its ability to support real-time analysis and predictive modeling. NVIS is expected to utilize statistical and machine learning algorithms to enable the processing of data streams, identifying patterns, and forecasting potential volcanic eruptions with increased accuracy. These advanced analytical techniques allow scientists to detect subtle changes in volcanic behavior that might otherwise go unnoticed. The integration of advanced IT solutions into NVEWS will be instrumental in transforming volcano monitoring into a cohesive national endeavor. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as satellite imaging, machine learning, and remote collaboration tools, NVIS improves the likelihood that volcanic threats are detected early and managed effectively.
Ultimately, the success of NVEWS will hinge on its ability to harness technological advancements for the benefit of public safety. Through continuous innovation and collaboration, NVEWS aims to improve upon the already-high-caliber volcano monitoring programs within the USGS in a new era of technology, ensuring that citizens are as protected as they can be from volcanic hazards.
As technology continues to evolve, so too will NVEWS and its reliance on advanced IT solutions. These advancements will ensure that NVIS and NVEWS can fully transform scientific efforts into tangible benefits for society as an indispensable ally in the USGS’ ongoing efforts for a safer nation.
Volcano Activity Updates
Kīlauea has been erupting episodically within the summit caldera since December 23, 2024. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH.
The summit eruption at Kīlauea volcano that began in Halemaʻumaʻu crater on December 23 continued over the past week. Episode 17 began the evening of April 7 and ended the morning of April 9. During episode 17, the south vent sustained fountain heights of 50-200 feet (15-60 meters) while minor activity occurred briefly at the north vent. Since the end of episode 17, the summit region has showed inflation suggesting another episode is possible. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone.
Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.
No earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week.
HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
San Diego, CA, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HUMBL, Inc. (OTC: HMBL), a U.S.-based holding company with a focus on technology, today announced the mutual unwinding of its previously announced $2 million Share Exchange Agreement and Master Distribution Agreement with NUBURU, Inc., effective immediately.
The decision was driven by HUMBL, Inc.’s strategic focus on enhancing shareholder value and limiting further dilution in non-core segments of its business. The company is now fully directing its efforts toward expanding its newly announced joint venture with MultiCortex, LLC, a U.S. and Brazilian-based artificial intelligence company focused on high-performance computing and advanced inference systems.
“We appreciated the early opportunities presented through the NUBURU initiative, but ultimately, our strategic roadmap is best served by focusing on long-term, high-value ventures like our joint venture with MultiCortex AI,” said Thiago Moura, CEO of HUMBL. “The MultiCortex AI joint venture has the potential to position HUMBL, Inc. at the intersection of AI growth between the U.S. and Latin America.”
The MultiCortex AI collaboration marks the latest addition to HUMBL, Inc.’s portfolio, aimed at creating more connected technology sales and development between the U.S. and Latin America.
About HUMBL, Inc.
HUMBL, Inc. is shifting toward a strategic holding company model under the leadership of CEO Thiago Moura, Principal of Ybyra Capital — a Brazilian holding company with diversified investments, such as commodities and mining.
The company’s unique structure enables it to create two-way distribution pipelines throughout the United States and Latin America, leveraging Ybyra Capital’s established regional presence to offer strategic partners immediate access to high-growth markets.
The company most recently announced a joint venture with a U.S. and Brazilian-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) company. MULTICORTEX | HPC FOR AI
HUMBL, Inc. (OTC: HMBL)
Investor Relations: IR@humbl.com
Media Contact: Media@humbl.com
Safe Harbor Statement
This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact included herein are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “may,” “will,” “could,” and similar expressions. All forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in such statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with the ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of the joint venture, competitive conditions, and general market dynamics. HUMBL, Inc. disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.
Source:
Congressman Keith Self is proud to announce a unique opportunity for a veteran or Gold Star Family member to serve in his Washington, D.C. office through the Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program. The individual chosen for the special position will handle a legislative portfolio that includes Veterans’ Affairs Committee work and will also assist our district team with constituent casework as needed.
“As a 25-year Army veteran, I’m especially honored to welcome a fellow veteran or a Gold Star Family member to join our team in Washington,” said Congressman Self. “Their service, sacrifice, and firsthand experience are invaluable, and I’m thrilled for the opportunity to have someone who truly understands the military community serve our constituents.”
The Green & Gold Congressional Aide Program was established by the House of Representatives to provide employment opportunities for veterans and Gold Star Families within member offices.
The program is limited to veterans and Gold Star Family members who meet all of the following requirements: Veterans must be honorably discharged, released from active duty within the last six years, terminal pay grades at or below E-5, O-3, or W-2. Veterans promoted to the pay grades of E-6, O-4, and W-3 within 6-months of separation from active duty are eligible, granted they meet ALL other eligibility requirements. Veterans who are in receipt of a 20-year or Temporary Early Retirement Authorization (TERA) retirement are not eligible for the program. Gold Star applicants must be the spouse, parent, sibling, child or stepchild of a service member who died in the line of duty or died from a service-connected disability within four years of separation from the service.
To apply, please visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/803545200.
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US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
April 10, 2025
Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today led his Democratic colleagues in the Oregon delegation – Senator Jeff Merkley and U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Janelle Bynum (OR-05) and Maxine Dexter (OR-03) – in urging the Social Security Administration to reverse its severe layoffs and threats of worse to come for services to the state’s seniors and people with disabilities.
In their letter to the Social Security Administration’s Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek, the Oregon lawmakers cited agency data showing staff in the Warrenton and La Grande field offices declined by at least 25 percent as a result of agency decisions to reduce its workforce. They also noted the field office in The Dalles has experienced a substantial drop in workers.
“These three rural field offices already faced staffing shortages before these cuts, with just twenty combined employees serving more than 232,000 Oregonians in ten counties and parts of Washington and Idaho,” the lawmakers wrote, noting how nearly every American interacts with the agency at pivotal moments in their lives.
“Access to in-person services is especially important for each of those moments, especially for people who have difficulty speaking by phone, who lack reliable internet access, and who have difficulty understanding program rules,” they wrote. “Any disruption in service, especially interruption of benefit payments, can be financially devastating for families. For many of these Oregonians, field offices are often their only channel of service. These field offices are located in predominantly rural areas, with the nearest field office more than 50 miles away from many users.”
“Additionally, more than 400,000 Oregonians lack internet access at home because the state’s size and rugged terrain make it costly and difficult to build broadband infrastructure,” the lawmakers continued. “Without in-person services, if those Oregonians have difficulty using a phone they are 100 percent cut off from their benefits.”
Nearly 1 million Oregonians collect Social Security benefits, and the lawmakers’ letter noted that the agency’s reckless actions have already inflicted a devastating toll on those Oregon beneficiaries and tens of millions more across America.
“Simply put, your decisions jeopardize Oregonians’ access to their Social Security benefits without providing any substantive plans to provide quality service to these communities,” they wrote. “We urge you to immediately reverse these changes and work to rebuild SSA’s workforce so it can serve the millions of Oregonians and Americans who depend on Social Security.”
A copy of the entire letter is here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resource (ENR) Committee, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) spoke with Dr. Preston Griffith, the nominee to serve as the Under Secretary of Energy, and Dr. Dario Gil, the nominee to serve as the Under Secretary of Energy for Science, about the need to prioritize energy storage technology as America works toward an “all of the above” energy future, making clear the value of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. During the exchange, Senator King asked the two nominees to commit to further research and development of emerging power technologies to help strengthen grid storage capacity and unlock America’s renewable energy potential.
“One of the technologies I’m most interested in is storage because we are talking about development of the grid and stabilization of the grid. And I hope that both of you will remain committed to the research and development of storage capacity on the grid because I think that is part of the solution. Do you agree, Dr. Gil,” questioned Senator King.
“Thank you for the question. Let me also just say since you are representing Maine, that I have a long connection with Maine. My wife and in-laws are from Maine, so I’ve been going for many decades and it’s a pleasure,” replied Dr. Gil.
“Wonderful. Tell her to tell your in-laws she saw me working,” said Senator King.
“Will do so. And yes, I completely agree on the importance of storage technology. It is an essential part not only of present electricity systems, but also in the future. I will also point out that within the science portfolio of the Department, we also have a lot of opportunity to accelerate the opportunity for discovery of novel, more safe, and efficient storage technologies. So, the commitment is twofold. It is both a recognition of the importance that storage plays but also that we have to do a lot of discovery to make sure that we can take a very significant leap forward, which we can do by harnessing these capabilities on AI and in the future quantum computing as well,” responded Dr. Gil.
“Mr. Griffith, I assume you believe storage is a part of all of the above,” asked Senator King.
“Yes, Senator, absolutely. Thank you for your question. It is the holy grail. We need all energy sources, technology — we need to bring them all to bear to meet this growing demand,” agreed Dr. Griffith.
As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senator King has advocated for climate solutions that deliver on the clean energy potential of the historic Inflation Reduction Act. He has repeatedly emphasized the importance of permitting reform to deliver carefully considered, timely approvals of sorely-needed clean energy projects. Senator King has also been one of the Senate’s most vocal advocates for improving energy storage technologies and development and worked to include significant storage investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. Most recently, Senator King reiterated the importance of an “all of the above” energy policy strategy during an ENR hearing considering the nominations of Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) issued the following statement regarding an incident at Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) where two airplanes bumped into each other on the tarmac:
“Thank God no one was hurt this time. We need a full investigation into this incident as soon as possible. We have said this over and over and hate having to say it again: when planes are taking off and landing every minute of the day, FAA funding is cut, air traffic controllers are fired, and current staff is spread thinner to cover more—that is when mistakes happen. The traveling public deserves action.”
Source: US Department of Energy
Southern Nuclear recently loaded a new higher enriched nuclear fuel into a commercial reactor for irradiation testing.
This is the first time fuel enriched above 5 percent will be irradiated in a U.S. commercial reactor.
The higher enrichment levels allow the fuel to last longer and operate at increased power levels — potentially leading to additional reliable power production at nuclear power plants across the country.
The advanced fuel was developed through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Accident Tolerant Fuel Program to help improve fuel cycle safety and lower operational costs.
Southern Nuclear recently loaded four lead test assemblies containing Westinghouse Electric Company’s ADOPT® fuel pellets into the Vogtle Unit 2 reactor in Waynesboro, GA.
The new fuel is enriched up to 6 weight percent of uranium-235 – the main fissile isotope that produces energy during a chain reaction and could be a game-changer for the industry.
Commercial reactors currently operate on fuel that typically ranges between 3 and 5 percent enrichment.
The higher enriched fuel could help extend operation cycles from 18 to 24 months, allow for higher power output, and lead to less waste generated over the life of the reactor. The pellets, which also include additives expected to enhance safety performance, were derived from higher enriched uranium oxide powder that was first prepared by Idaho National Laboratory.
The powder was further processed into fuel pellets and fabricated into pins at before they were shipped to Vogtle Unit 2 for commercial testing.
“This achievement is a significant step forward for not only the resiliency of the entire U.S. operating fleet, but future nuclear technologies,” said Pete Sena, Southern Nuclear Chairman, President and CEO. “Our goal is to operate our units for longer periods with higher output, and with higher enriched fuel, we’re even better positioned to meet the growing energy demands of the state of Georgia.”
The lead test assemblies will undergo testing for the next four and a half years at Plant Vogtle.
The fuel will be examined after each fuel cycle with a more extensive review after the fuel completes testing to support future commercialization and deployment in the United States.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
CALGARY, Alberta, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — News Release – TC Energy Corporation (TSX, NYSE: TRP) (TC Energy or the Company) will release its first quarter 2025 financial results on Thursday, May 1 at 6:30 a.m. MDT / 8:30 a.m. EDT and hold its 2025 annual meeting of common shareholders on Thursday, May 8, at 10 a.m. MDT / 12 p.m. EDT.
First quarter 2025 financial results
François Poirier, TC Energy President and Chief Executive Officer, Sean O’Donnell, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer, and other members of the executive leadership team will discuss the financial results and Company developments on Thursday, May 1 at 6:30 a.m. MDT / 8:30 a.m. EDT.
Members of the investment community and other interested parties are invited to participate by calling 1-833-752-3826 (Canada/U.S. toll free) or 1-647-846-8864 (International toll). No passcode is required. Please dial in 15 minutes prior to the start of the call. Alternatively, participants may pre-register for the call here.
Upon registering, you will receive a calendar booking by email with dial in details and a unique PIN. This process will bypass the operator and avoid the queue. Registration will remain open until the end of the conference call.
A live webcast of the teleconference will be available on TC Energy’s website at TC Energy – Events and presentations or via the following URL: https://www.gowebcasting.com/13942. The webcast will be available for replay following the meeting.
A replay of the teleconference will be available two hours after the conclusion of the call until midnight EDT on May 8, 2025. Please call 1-855-669-9658 (Canada/U.S. toll free) or 1-412-317-0088 (International toll) and enter passcode 6585702.
2025 annual meeting
TC Energy is also pleased to announce that it has filed its 2025 Management Information Circular, along with the related meeting and proxy materials, for its annual meeting of common shareholders (the Meeting) to be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 10 a.m. MDT / 12 p.m. EDT. The Meeting will be held in a virtual-only format via live video webcast. The webcast, including the live question and answer session, will be recorded and archived for replay following the Meeting.
The 2025 Management Information Circular, including information on the business of the Meeting, is available on our website at www.tcenergy.com and under TC Energy’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.
For more information on participating in the live virtual meeting, please visit the annual meeting page on our website at 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
About TC Energy
We’re a team of 6,500+ energy problem solvers connecting the world to the energy it needs. Our extensive network of natural gas infrastructure assets is one-of-a-kind. We seamlessly move, generate and store energy and deliver it to where it is needed most, to homes and businesses in North America and across the globe through LNG exports. Our natural gas assets are complemented by our strategic ownership and low-risk investments in power generation.
TC Energy’s common shares trade on the Toronto (TSX) and New York (NYSE) stock exchanges under the symbol TRP. To learn more, visit us at TCEnergy.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains certain information that is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties (such statements are usually accompanied by words such as “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “estimate”, “intend” or other similar words). Forward-looking statements in this document are intended to provide TC Energy security holders and potential investors with information regarding TC Energy and its subsidiaries, including management’s assessment of TC Energy’s and its subsidiaries’ future plans and financial outlook. All forward-looking statements reflect TC Energy’s beliefs and assumptions based on information available at the time the statements were made and as such are not guarantees of future performance. As actual results could vary significantly from the forward-looking information, you should not put undue reliance on forward-looking information and should not use future-oriented information or financial outlooks for anything other than their intended purpose. We do not update our forward-looking information due to new information or future events, unless we are required to by law. For additional information on the assumptions made, and the risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ from the anticipated results, refer to the most recent Quarterly Report to Shareholders and Annual Report filed under TC Energy’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov.
-30-
Media Inquiries:
Media Relations
media@tcenergy.com
403-920-7859 or 800-608-7859
Investor & Analyst Inquiries:
Gavin Wylie / Hunter Mau
investor_relations@tcenergy.com
403-920-7911 or 800-361-6522
PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/0c6d0642-71b0-458e-815f-875a1bcf958b
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)
U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) joined U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) in reintroducing the Protecting Employees and Retirees in Business Bankruptcies Act. The bill would empower rank-and-file employees whose companies are facing bankruptcy, allowing them to retain more of their wages, benefits, and retirement savings when their employer files for bankruptcy. The Senators previously introduced the legislation in 2024.
Currently, the law fails to adequately look out for employees during bankruptcy proceedings. Instead, it prioritizes creditors. The Protecting Employees and Retirees in Business Bankruptcies Act would put workers first, granting employee claims higher priority and placing restrictions on golden parachutes for executives.
“Employees shouldn’t be the ones left holding the bag when companies go under. Rather than giving precedence to the desires of predatory creditors, we should prioritize workers and protect the compensation they’ve earned through years of hard work,” said Senator Hawley. “Our bill would safeguard workers’ claims to wages, benefits, and retirement funds throughout bankruptcy proceedings.”
“When their company files for bankruptcy, employees should not have to worry that they will lose their hard-earned wages, benefits, and retirement savings,” said Senator Durbin. “The Protecting Employees and Retirees in Business Bankruptcies Act would ensure that all employees, not just C-suite executives, receive the benefits they were promised.”
Senator Hawley has been a staunch supporter of workers’ rights. He was a leading voice in confirming pro-worker Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. Last month, he sponsored the Faster Labor Contracts Act, which would speed up first contracts for new unions. In addition, he has stood with and and voted to support rail workers as they sought a fair deal with sick leave, fought to keep jobs here in the U.S., and advocated for United States Postal Service workers.
Read the text of the legislation here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, reintroduced Hammers’ Law to hold the cruise industry accountable for the wrongful deaths of passengers who do not have dependents or income — including children, students, and retirees. In addition to Fischer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.).
The bill is named for Larry and Christy Hammer of Omaha, who tragically lost their lives in a fire in their cabin onboard a Peruvian river cruise on April 10th, 2016. Today marks the nine-year anniversary of the incident.
“Nine years ago today, Larry and Christy Hammer tragically and unexpectedly lost their lives because of the negligence of a cruise company. Since then, their bereaved daughters, Jill and Kelly, have endured a frustrating fight for accountability. My Hammers’ Law, named for Larry and Christy, will help prevent future tragedies and give families fairer compensation if tragedy does strike,”
said Fischer.
“A century-old law has prevented families from obtaining fair financial accountability when their loved ones die tragically onboard a cruise ship. Our bipartisan effort will ensure that bad actors in the cruise industry fairly compensate Americans whose family members are killed on their ships – just like an airline does, when something goes wrong on a plane. No amount of money can ever fully compensate a family for this kind of tragic loss, but our measure will help bring about some small measure of justice after a cruise catastrophe,” said Blumenthal.
“Families like the Hammers deserve justice when loved ones are wrongfully lost at sea. This bipartisan bill ensures that cruise lines are held to the same accountability standards as airlines,” said Ricketts.
“Hammers’ Law is a crucial step toward justice and accountability for the countless families who have tragically lost loved ones due to negligence onboard cruise ships. This legislation ensures that no victim’s family is denied the right to seek justice solely because of antiquated laws. Hammers’ Law will extend to cruise passengers the same protections airline passengers have enjoyed for decades, compelling cruise companies to prioritize safety and protecting millions of travelers each year,” said the Hammers’ daughters, Jill Hammer Malott and Kelly Hammer Lankford.
Background:
Hammers’ Law would amend an over 100-year-old law, known as the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA). Today, the cruise industry uses DOHSA to avoid financial accountability for the wrongful deaths of passengers who do not have dependents or income. These passengers — including children, students, and retirees — account for a significant portion of the 12 million Americans who cruise each year.
As retirees, Larry and Christy Hammer did not have financial dependents or wages, so antiquated DOHSA rules restricted the Hammer family from pursuing the accountability that would likely be available for wrongful deaths occurring on dry land. DOHSA was amended in 2000 to allow the same kind of compensation for victims of major airline accidents.
Passing Hammers’ Law will enable future families to pursue fairer compensation when similar tragedies strike, and it will hold the responsible cruise line accountable by allowing for compensation that more fully reflects the company’s negligence.
Hammers’ Law was first introduced in 2019. Since then, Fischer has continued to grow support for this legislation, reintroducing it during the 117th Congress and again last Congress.
Click here to read the full text of the bill.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Trent Kelly (R-Miss)
Washington, April 10, 2025
“This executive order recognizes the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to reinvigorate the U.S. shipbuilding and maritime industries, sharing the same goals as our SHIPS for America Act. America’s maritime industry and shipbuilding capacity have dangerously lagged behind over the years, allowing China to get ahead and pose a serious threat over the oceans. Today’s action by the Trump administration shows they see the same threat and the urgent need to reverse course to strengthen our national security and grow our economy. We’re also encouraged that many of the provisions in the executive order mirror parts of our SHIPS for America Act.
“We will introduce the SHIPS for America Act with renewed support in the coming weeks to provide the Congressional authorizations needed to truly revitalize the American shipbuilding and maritime industries, and work with the administration to get it passed. That’s how we’ll put Americans to work building more oceangoing ships and flying the American flag on merchant vessels to reclaim America’s global maritime leadership.”
Background:
Senators Kelly and Young and Representatives Kelly and Garamendi introduced the SHIPS for America Act to revitalize U.S. shipbuilding capacity to lower costs, create good-paying jobs, and strengthen national security.
Sen. Kelly earned his B.S. degree in marine engineering and nautical science in the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and later an M.S. degree in aeronautical engineering from the United States Naval Postgraduate School. Sen. Kelly spent 25 years in the United States Navy as a pilot and is the first to serve in Congress. In 2023, Sen. Kelly was elected chair of the USMMA Board of Visitors for the 118th Congress.
Rep. Kelly serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces for the House Armed Services Committee.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)
Washington, DC – Today, Congressmen Scott Peters (D-CA) and Tim Walberg (R-MI) introduced the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would require the Administration to develop and implement a national strategy to close the digital divide.
The PLAN for Broadband Act is based on a Government Accountability Office report that found federal broadband efforts are fragmented and overlapping. The report recommended that a national broadband strategy is needed to avoid duplication and ensure funds are reaching the truly unserved and underserved.
“We allocated historic funding in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to ensure every American – no matter where you live – has access to high-speed internet and the vast opportunities that reliable broadband coverage provides in today’s digital world,” said Rep. Peters. “But it won’t help anyone if the money just sits in the bank or is spent inefficiently. The PLAN for Broadband Act would establish a much-needed coordinated national strategy across the over 100 existing federal programs to close the digital divide. Our bipartisan legislation will streamline the deployment of these funds so we can deliver high-speed broadband at a rate that meets the urgency of this moment.
“In today’s digital age, having access to reliable broadband service is integral to our economy, education, and most aspects of our daily lives,” said Rep. Walberg. “Experts have testified that while we have enough funding to close the digital divide, we don’t have the coordination necessary to effectively allocate these resources to the communities that need it most. We must develop a roadmap to improve the efficiency and coordination of federal broadband programs so that we can streamline efforts and accelerate the deployment of broadband. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to ensure that more Americans gain access to the high-speed broadband they need to thrive.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)
Anti-Racism in Public Health Act Would Require Federal Government to Actively Develop Anti-Racist Health Policy
Bill Text (PDF)
WASHINGTON – Today, with Trump and Republicans continuing their coordinated attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and RFK, Jr. dismantling the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including closing the Office of Minority Health, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) are re-introducing the Anti-Racism in Public Health Act of 2025, legislation that would declare racism a public health crisis and require the federal government to actively develop anti-racist health policy. The bill would help expand research and investment into the public health impacts of structural racism through two bold new programs within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“While Trump and Republicans embolden white supremacy and carry out their coordinated assault on Black, brown, and other marginalized communities, we must continue pushing back and advancing an affirmative, anti-racist agenda that addresses racism as the public health crisis that it is,” said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. “By expanding research into the public health impacts of structural racism and requiring the federal government to develop anti-racist health policy, our bill is the type of responsive legislation the moment demands. I’m grateful to Senator Warren for her ongoing partnership as we continue working to dismantle centuries of racism in our public health system.”
“For centuries, racism has denied Black and Brown mothers life-saving care during pregnancies and led to higher rates of chronic illness like diabetes and asthma,” said Senator Warren. “We’re renewing the fight to tackle racial disparities head-on and give everyone a chance at a healthy life.”
In addition to researching of the impacts of structural racism on public health, the Anti-Racism in Public Health Act would:
In October 2022, as a result of the lawmakers’ introduction of the Anti-Racism in Public Health Act, HHS awarded $493,000 to the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) to support their efforts to address homelessness and substance use disorder policies that create or perpetuate health disparities and contribute to structural racism.
Joining Pressley and Warren in introducing the Anti-Racism in Public Health Act are Representatives Joyce Beatty, Shontel Brown, André Carson, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Dwight Evans, Hank Johnson, Jennifer McClellan, Jerry Nadler, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Mark Pocan, Delia C. Ramirez, Jan Schakowsky, Terri Sewell, Adam Smith, Melanie Stansbury, Mark Takano, Bennie G. Thompson, Ritchie Torres, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and Bonnie Watson Coleman.
The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: Columbia NOW, SC; Power to Decide; Public Citizen; National Council of Jewish Women; YW Boston; Physicians for a National Health Program; Center for Policing Equity; Justice in Aging; Feminist Women’s Health Center; Guttmacher Institute; Center for Reproductive Rights; Diversity Uplifts, Inc.; Every Mother Counts; Conference of Boston Teaching Hospitals; and Boston Medical Center.
A copy of the bill text can be found here.
In November 2022, Rep. Pressley, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and Commissioner of Public Health and Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission Dr. Bisola Ojikutu held a roundtable discussion with public health advocates to highlight the nearly $493,000 in new federal funding to help Boston address the public health impacts of structural racism.
In October 2022, Rep. Pressley, Senator Warren, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee applauded the new funding for BPHC, which was awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) alongside nine other grants to community organizations across the country. In total, HHS awarded over $4.8 million to support local efforts to address policies that may create or perpetuate health disparities and contribute to structural racism.
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Source: US State of California Department of Justice
OAKLAND — California Attorney General Bonta today, alongside 23 attorneys general, filed an amicus brief to continue their support for Gwynne Wilcox, who is appealing her case against President Donald Trump’s unlawful attempt to remove her as a Member of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Filed in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, the attorneys general maintain their steadfast support for Member Wilcox and urge the Court to affirm the summary judgment by the Court of Appeals, which blocked the President from removing Wilcox.
On February 28, Attorney General Bonta, as part of a coalition of 20 attorneys general, filed his first amicus brief in Wilcox v. Trump in support of Gwynne Wilcox, who challenged the President’s unlawful removal of her position as a Member of the NLRB. Soon after, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia issued an order declaring that Member Wilcox should remain a full member of the NLRB and found the President’s action firing her to be “blatantly illegal.” The Trump administration appealed and asked for a stay to stop the ruling during the appeal, which would effectively allow her firing to take effect. The attorneys general filed another amicus brief, urging the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to deny the administration’s request for a stay. The federal appeals court ultimately denied the Administration’s request, and today’s brief supports Wilcox on the merits of her appeal.
“Time and again, we are seeing the President’s continuous attempt to trample on workers’ rights,” said Attorney General Bonta. “My fellow attorneys general and I remain unwavering in our commitment to stand against the President’s unlawful removal of Member Wilcox from NLRB.”
The NLRB is an independent federal agency that enforces U.S. labor laws related to workers’ rights, union representation, and collective bargaining. It oversees union elections, ensuring that employees can freely choose whether to be represented by a union. The Board also investigates and resolves unfair labor practice charges against employers and unions, addressing issues like retaliation, unlawful firings, and refusal to bargain in good faith. The NLRB also adjudicates disputes under the NLRA and issues rulings that shape labor law policies. To protect the NLRB from political pressure by the President, NLRB board members are appointed by the President and confirmed by Congress for staggered 5-year terms. Board members do not serve at the pleasure of the President. Federal law provides that Board members can only be removed by the President “upon notice and hearing, for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other cause.”
In the amicus brief, the attorneys general strongly support the affirmance of the summary judgment by the Court of Appeals, which blocked the President from removing Wilcox and highlight that the President violated the NLRA by unlawfully removing Wilcox from the Board. The attorneys general also lay out the detrimental implications of an incapacitated NLRB should the Trump Administration not be prevented from taking away from American workers the entity that Congress authorized to ensure the ability to join a union and engage in collective bargaining, protections which workers have relied on for decades. This regulatory vacuum will be deeply troubling given the importance and scale of the work done by the NLRB. In the past decade, the NLRB reviewed nearly 3,000 allegations of unfair labor practices.
Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin.
A copy of the brief can be found here.
Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)
AG Pam Bondi at Cabinet meeting: “Your directive to me was to keep America safe and that is what we are doing… These gang members are going back to where they came or they’re going to an El Salvador prison.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – To support families choosing adoption, the existing Adoption Tax Credit allows adoptive families to deduct up to $16,810 in qualified expenses. The tax credit eases the financial cost of adoption and supports prospective and adoptive families.
U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), co-chairs of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, with U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), introduced the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act to restore the refundable portion of the Adoption Tax Credit. By allowing the tax credit to be refundable, families will be able to access the full amount as a refund, even if the credit exceeds a family’s tax burden. The credit was previously refundable in 2010 and 2011.
“Adoption is a true joy for families, but it is not without significant financial cost,” said 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 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.”
“Offering permanent homes to adoptive children strengthens families and is a blessing,” said Blackburn. “The Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act would reduce the financial burden of adoption and make adoption more accessible.”
“For families across the country, adoption is a blessing that provides children with a loving, stable home,” said Luján. “Families should not face steep financial costs for opening their arms and offering a permanent home to adoptive children. That is why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act to lower the financial cost of adoption and help more children find loving homes.”
Senate cosponsors include U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-SC), Mark Warner (D-VA), James Lankford (R-OK), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angus King (I-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ). The legislation was also introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07), Blake Moore (R-UT-01), Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Don Beyer (D-VA-08), and Robert Aderholt (R-AL-04).
This legislation is endorsed by the Adoption Tax Credit Working Group Executive Committee and 100 national, state, and local groups.
Click here for bill text.