Judges for the ExportNZ ASB Bay of Plenty Export Awards have announced the finalists who will be honoured at the awards gala on Friday 18 July at Mercury Baypark, Mount Maunganui. The awards, organised by the EMA, celebrate the exceptional achievements of Bay of Plenty businesses who are exporting goods and services to markets around the world.
The event is proudly supported by principal sponsor ASB, as well as Sharp Tudhope, Air NZ Cargo, Page Macrae, Zespri, and Orbit Travel, and supporting partners NZTE, Comvita and Port of Tauranga.
Winners announced at Awards Galaon 18 July, at Mercury Baypark, Mount Maunganui
The success of each finalist will be celebrated at the 1920s-themed awards gala on 18 July, which promises to be a night of elegance, glamour and celebration, honouring the innovation and resilience of the region’s exporters. Gala tickets are available atExportNZ ASB Bay of Plenty Export Awards 2025.
List of finalists –ExportNZ ASB Bay of Plenty Export Awards
Finalists in the 2025 awards encompass a broad range of innovative businesses, showcasing the breadth and depth of exporting excellence in the Bay of Plenty region. These include heavy engineering and precision machine manufacturers, technology and software solution providers for the agricultural, health and legal sectors, as well as a manufacturer of kids’ cycling accessories. The finalists for the 2025 ExportNZ ASB Bay of Plenty Export Awards are:
Bluelab– a manufacturer of precision instruments for measuring pH, electrical conductivity and temperature in controlled agricultural environments.
Carepatron– a provider of a secure, cloud-based healthcare solution for practitioners to manage clients, appointments, payments, and records.
KidsRide Shotgun– a designer and manufacturer of mountain bike seats and accessories for young children to enjoy biking with their families.
LawVu– a provider of a unified, cloud-based legal workspace, designed for in-house legal teams to efficiently manage matters, contracts, spend, documents, and reporting within a single, secure platform.
MedellaHealth– a developer of innovative wellness devices, including the Flowpresso therapy suit, which combines compression, deep pressure and thermo therapy.
Oasis Engineering– a manufacturer of high-pressure control devices for gases, such as hydrogen and compressed natural gas.
Plazmax– a designer and manufacturer of advanced computer numerical control (CNC) plasma cutting and robotic welding systems for precision engineering.
Rhino Manufacturing– an industry-leading supplier of parts for trucks and trailers; Rhino guards blend powerful performance with striking style.
SpidaMachinery– a manufacturer of high-quality, precision machinery for the frame, truss, and building-component industries.
TrimaxMowing Systems– a designer and manufacturer of tractor-powered roller and flail mowers for commercial use.
The short-listed exporting companies will be judged over the following categories:
–Best Emerging Business(in partnership with Air New Zealand Cargo) – recognising businesses in the early stage of their international growth journey.
–Excellence in Innovation(in partnership with Page Macrae) – recognising success in the commercialisation of innovation in international markets, incorporating intellectual property, strategy, processes and monitoring.
–Exporter of the Year(in partnership with Sharpe Tudhope) – recognising the success of those businesses that are established in their international growth journey.
In addition,the Export Achievement Award(in partnership with Zespri) recognises an individual who has made a material contribution to the export success of a business. Finalists for this category are:
–Sarah Webb, LawVu
–Karl Stevenson, BlueLab
Finally, theServices to Export Award(in partnership with Orbit Travel) recognises an individual or business, who may or may not be directly involved with exporting, but has made a significant contribution to exporting success in the Bay of Plenty. Entry for this award is by nomination only, with the winner announced at the awards gala on 18 July.
Highlighting export innovation in Bay of Plenty
The awards are organised by the EMA on behalf of ExportNZ. EMA Chief Executive John Fraser-Mackenzie says, “We look forward to honouring these outstanding companies at this year’s awards gala on 18 July, which will harness the spirit of the ‘Roaring Twenties’.
“The awards celebrate the community of business, providing an opportunity for peer-to-peer networking and knowledge sharing among like-minded, export-oriented companies.”
Chair of the ExportNZ BoP Executive Committee Warwick Downing says, “These awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible exporters in the Bay of Plenty who work tirelessly to bring New Zealand products and services to the world.
“Equally important is the opportunity they provide to bring the exporting community together, to share stories, challenges, and insights that help drive the sector forward.”
Head of Trade Finance at ASB Bank Mike Atkins says, “We are excited to partner with ExportNZ to celebrate the export champions from the Bay of Plenty region.
“At ASB, we are passionate about enabling exporters to scale up, be it through working capital funding or other advisory initiatives across productivity, sustainability, clean tech, and food & fibre.”
Executive Director of ExportNZ Josh Tan says, “These awards are a recognition of the incredible mahi of exporters in the Bay of Plenty who continue to deliver excellence.
“The awards not only celebrate the individual enterprises, importantly they encourage a collaborative culture that nurtures exporting success across the region.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Fatal traffic accident in Ngau Tau Kok At 10.53pm, a bus driven by a 38-year-old man was travelling along Ngau Tau Kok Road southbound. When approaching Choi Wan Road Sitting-out Area, it reportedly knocked down an 84-year-old man who was crossing the road.
Sustaining serious head injury, the man was rushed to United Christian Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 11.17pm.
The bus driver was arrested for dangerous driving causing death and is being detained for enquiries.
Investigation by the Special Investigation Team of Traffic, Kowloon East is under way.
Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 0262 or 3661 0277.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicola Gaston, Director of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau
A lack of strategy and research funding – by both the current and previous governments – has been well documented, most comprehensively in the first report by the Science System Advisory Group (SSAG), released late last year.
If there is one word that sums up the current state of New Zealan’s research sector, it is scarcity. As the report summarises:
We have an underfunded system by any international comparison. This parsimony has led to harmful inter-institutional competition in a manner that is both wastefully expensive in terms of process and scarce researcher time, and is known to inhibit the most intellectually innovative ideas coming forward, and of course it is these that can drive a productive innovation economy.
The latest example is last week’s cancellation of the 2026 grant application round of the NZ$55 million Endeavour Fund “as we transition to the science, innovation and technology system of the future”. Interrupting New Zealand’s largest contestable source of science funding limits opportunities for researchers looking for support for new and emerging ideas.
Changes to the Marsden Fund, set up 30 years ago to support fundamental research, removed all funding for social science and the humanities and shifted focus to applied research. This is despite fundamental research in all fields underpinning innovation and the international ranking of our universities.
New Zealand has an opportunity to change its economy based on the potential of emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, cleantech and quantum technologies. Other countries, including Australia and the United Kingdom, already consider quantum technologies a priority and fund them accordingly.
But when it comes to strategy, the composition of the boards of new Public Research Organisations, set up as part of the government’s science sector reform, are skewed towards business experience. Where there is scientific expertise, it tends to be in established industries. The governance of the proposed new entity to focus on emerging and advanced technologies is yet to be announced.
Critical mass requires funding and strategy
Scientists have been calling for a science investment target of 2% of GDP for a long time. It was once – roughly a decade ago – the average expenditure within the OECD; this has since increased to 2.7% of GDP, while New Zealand’s investment remains at 1.5%.
The SSAG report repeatedly refers to the lack of funding, and it would be the obvious thing to see addressed in this year’s budget. But expectations have already been lowered by the government’s insistence there will be no new money.
The report’s second high-level theme is the engagement of government with scientific strategy. Government announcements to date seem focused on attracting international investment through changes to tax settings and regulation. I would argue this is a matter of focusing on the wrapping rather than the present: the system itself needs to be attractive to investors.
Creating a thriving research sector is also a matter of scale. International cooperation is one way for New Zealand to access efficiencies of scale. And work on building international partnerships is one area of positive intent. But we need to look at our connectivity nationally as well, and use investment to build this further.
Countries with greater GDPs than New Zealand’s invest much more in research as a proportion of GDP. It means the size of these other countries’ scientific ecosystems – if measured by total expenditure – is three to four times New Zealand’s on a per capita basis.
A matter of scale
Per-capita scale matters because it tells us how easy it is for researchers to find someone else with the right skillset or necessary equipment. It tells us how likely it is for a student to find an expert in New Zealand to teach them, rather than needing to go overseas.
And it tells us how quickly start-up companies in emerging technologies will be able to find the skilled employees they need. A thriving university system that attracts young people to develop the research skills needed by advanced technology companies is a key part of this challenge.
The government’s science sector reform aims to increase its contribution to economic growth. But research contributes to economic growth when scientists can really “lean in” with confidence to commercialising and translating their science.
That can’t happen if budgets don’t fund the critical mass, connectivity and resources to stimulate the transition to a thriving science system.
Nicola Gaston receives funding from the Tertiary Education Commission as the Director of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology. She also receives funding from the Marsden Fund. All research funding goes to the University of Auckland to pay the costs of the research she is employed to do.
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports. SEL8
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 308 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 725 PM EDT Tue May 20 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of Northern Georgia Eastern Kentucky Far Southwest North Carolina Eastern Tennessee Far Southwest Virginia
* Effective this Tuesday night and Wednesday morning from 725 PM until 200 AM EDT.
* Primary threats include… A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…A mix of supercell thunderstorms and clusters will spread generally eastward this evening into the early overnight hours. A few tornadoes may occur with this activity, and a strong tornado and isolated very large hail will also be possible with any sustained supercell. Otherwise, an increasing threat for scattered to numerous damaging winds appears likely as thunderstorms attempt to organize into a line later this evening. Peak gusts may reach up to 60-70 mph.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 50 statute miles east and west of a line from 35 miles north northeast of London KY to 20 miles southeast of Rome GA. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU8).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 303…WW 304…WW 305…WW 306…WW 307…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean storm motion vector 26030.
…Gleason
SEL8
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED Tornado Watch Number 308 NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK 725 PM EDT Tue May 20 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of Northern Georgia Eastern Kentucky Far Southwest North Carolina Eastern Tennessee Far Southwest Virginia
* Effective this Tuesday night and Wednesday morning from 725 PM until 200 AM EDT.
* Primary threats include… A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…A mix of supercell thunderstorms and clusters will spread generally eastward this evening into the early overnight hours. A few tornadoes may occur with this activity, and a strong tornado and isolated very large hail will also be possible with any sustained supercell. Otherwise, an increasing threat for scattered to numerous damaging winds appears likely as thunderstorms attempt to organize into a line later this evening. Peak gusts may reach up to 60-70 mph.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 50 statute miles east and west of a line from 35 miles north northeast of London KY to 20 miles southeast of Rome GA. For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU8).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 303…WW 304…WW 305…WW 306…WW 307…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean storm motion vector 26030.
…Gleason
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas. SAW8 WW 308 TORNADO GA KY NC TN VA 202325Z – 210600Z AXIS..50 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE.. 35NNE LOZ/LONDON KY/ – 20SE RMG/ROME GA/ ..AVIATION COORDS.. 45NM E/W /34NNE LOZ – 39NW ATL/ HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS. MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 26030.
LAT…LON 37548292 34148405 34148580 37548475
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS FOR WOU8.
Watch 308 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Mod (60%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Mod (40%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
High (70%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Mod (40%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
High (80%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
DENVER – Today, Governor Polis signed bills into law expanding mobility and operations across Colorado for food truck owners and operators, investing in environmental opportunities for youth, and protecting Colorado’s clean air by increasing building decarbonization standards.
Governor Polis signed HB25-1295 – Food Truck Operations, sponsored by Representatives Manny Rutinel and Mandy Lindsay, and Senators Dylan Roberts and John Carson.
“I’m excited that we are making it easier for food trucks to serve up delicious food in different cities and towns across the state. By getting rid of unnecessary regulations, Colorado’s talented chefs can bring more delicious food to your community,” said Governor Polis.
Governor Polis also signed the following bills into law increasing environmental literacy for Colorado’s youth, and improving Colorado’s air quality:
SB25-055 – Youth Involvement In Environmental Justice, sponsored by Senators Faith Winter and Janice Marchman, and Representatives Junie Joseph and Jennifer Bacon
HB25-1269 – Building Decarbonization Measures, sponsored by Representatives Jenny Willford and Alex Valdez, and Senators Matt Ball and Cathy Kipp
“We all have a role to play in protecting this state we love for future generations and these bills help more young people get involved in improving our environment and reduce emissions from buildings in our state to improve Colorado’s air quality. I appreciate the sponsors for their work on these bills to support Colorado’s future,” said Governor Jared Polis.
The Governor also signed the following bills administratively:
SB25-155 – Legislation Inside Advisory Council, sponsored by Senators Gonzales and Ball, and Representative Clifford
SB25-176 – Sunset Commodity Handler & Farm Products Act, sponsored by Senators R. Pelton and Snyder, and Representatives Martinez and Winter
SB25-226 – Extending Spinal & Related Medicine Program, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Bird and Taggart
SB25-229 – Reimbursement for Community Health Workers, sponsored by Senators Kirkmeyer and Bridges, and Representatives Bird and Taggart
HB25-1113 – Limit Turf in New Residential Development, sponsored by Representatives Smith and McCormick, and Senator Roberts
HB25-1175 – Smart Meter Opt-In Program, sponsored by Representatives Lieder and Joseph, and Senator Rodriguez
Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
Today, United States Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer, along with Congressman Ritchie Torres, released the following statement on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) decision to withdraw the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices:
“As New Yorkers, we know firsthand how destructive faulty lithium-ion batteries can be, causing hundreds of fires, including fatalities, just last year. These unregulated products have killed and injured innocent New Yorkers, while putting our public safety officers, especially our firefighters, in harm’s way. We were pleased with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s initial decision to begin the rulemaking process that would make the lithium-ion batteries safer. However, we are dismayed at their decision to withdraw the notice of proposed rulemaking. We need the CPSC as a partner to help make critical progress in our fight to crack down on unregulated lithium-ion batteries, and we encourage them to reevaluate their dangerous and faulty decision.”
If enacted, the NPRM would start the process to finalize federal regulations for lithium-ion batteries. Additionally, Senator Gillibrand, Senator Schumer, and Congressman Torres authored the bipartisan Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act, legislation that would establish the first federal safety standards for lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes, e-scooters, and other micromobility devices. The House of Representatives passed this critical legislation on April 28, 2025.
Lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in e-bikes, electric scooters, and other micromobility devices, are often manufactured abroad without being subject to acceptable safety standards. As a result, they commonly cause explosions and fires that lead to property damage and loss of life. In New York City alone, the New York City Fire Department reports that rechargeable lithium-ion batteries have caused more than 1,000 fires since 2019, resulting in 523 injuries, 34 deaths and damage to over 650 structures. In 2024, there were 279 e-bike and e-mobility device battery fires in NYC, a dramatic increase from the 30 that occurred in 2019.
Last month, Gillibrand, Schumer, and Torres called on the CPSC to vote in favor of the NPRM on lithium-ion batteries as soon as possible in order to protect the lives of Americans who rely on e-bikes and e-scooters.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA, 14)
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has reintroduced her landmark legislation, the Protect Children’s Innocence Act, a bold step to end the barbaric practice of so-called “gender-affirming care” for minors. This legislation, now designated as H.R. 3492, criminalizes genital mutilation, chemical castration, and all sex-change procedures performed on children.
The Protect Children’s Innocence Act strengthens and codifies President Donald J. Trump’s executive order banning gender transition procedures for minors. Together, this legislation and the President’s action send a clear message: the federal government will no longer tolerate the abuse and exploitation of children by the radical gender ideology of the Left.
“Left-wing activists and medical institutions are targeting America’s children with dangerous drugs, disfiguring surgeries, and permanent sterilization,” said Congresswoman Greene. “My bill stops the mutilation of kids and holds those responsible for performing or facilitating these barbaric procedures accountable.”
The bill is scheduled to be marked up in the House Judiciary Committee at 10 AM tomorrow, a critical step toward bringing it to the House floor for a vote.
When Congresswoman Greene first introduced this bill in 2022, she was joined by Chloe Cole, a courageous young woman who began “gender-affirming care” at age 13 and underwent a double mastectomy at 15. Chloe detransitioned at 16 and is now a vocal advocate for protecting vulnerable youth from irreversible harm. Watch Chloe’s powerful testimony here.
What the Protect Children’s Innocence Act Does:
Criminalizes any attempt to perform or facilitate genital or bodily mutilation or chemical castration on a minor, with up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a significant fine.
Bans all puberty blockers and cross-sex hormone treatments for children.
Provides no exemption for mental health disorders as justification for these procedures.
Defines “chemical castration” and “genital or bodily mutilation” with detailed legal clarity.
Exempts children born with certain rare genetic conditions, or who are experiencing medical emergencies as certified by a physician.
Cosponsors in the 119th Congress include: Crane, Finstad, Luna, Bice, Mary Miller, Crenshaw, McGuire, Kustoff, Biggs, Burlison, Tenney, Higgins, Brecheen, Nehls, Weber, Harris, Grothman, Hern, Collins, Ogles, Babin, Clyde, De La Cruz, Hageman, Owens, Palmer, Timmons, Norman, Max Miller, Steube, Jackson, Riley Moore, Comer, Gill, Baird, McDowell, Harshbarger, and Gooden.
Supporting organizations include the American Principles Project, Citizens for Renewing America, CPAC, Gays Against Groomers, Independent Women, and Moms for Liberty.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)
Washington, DC – Today, the House Financial Services Committee passed the Improving Access to Small Business Information Act (H.R. 3351), a bipartisan bill led by Reps. Young Kim (CA-40) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) to cut burdensome regulations hurting small business owners.
The Improving Access to Small Business Information Act would
amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to specify that actions—like conducting field surveys—of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation are not a collection of information under the Paper Reduction Act (PRA).
Rep. Kim spoke in Committee in support of the bill. Read her remarks below or watch HERE.
Thank you, Chairman Hill and Ranking Member Waters, for holding this important markup.
I also want to thank my colleague and friend, Representative Gottheimer from New Jersey, for co-leading H.R. 3351 – the Improving Access to Small Business Information Act – with me.
My bill is simple. The legislation would specify that activities, like conducting field surveys, carried out by the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, are not a collection of information under the Paper Reduction Act (PRA). Currently, OMB’s approval process is prolonged and bureaucratic, which delays feedback collection from small businesses and their investors.
I am proud to represent Orange County which is home to over 100,000 small businesses. It takes grit, perseverance, and commitment to start with an idea and make it a reality. As a former small business owner myself, I remember often wondering if the government truly understood the way that its policies impacted small businesses.
Former Director of the Office of the Advocate, Martha Miller, said that “the Office went through ayearlong processjust to collect registration information for our annual forum and ask a few basic questions to understand the audience attending”. Our regulations are restricting the government from understanding the needs of small businesses.
The SEC’s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation is the primary office charged with advancing the interests of small businesses and their investors. With the ever-changing economic and regulatory environment, the Office must be able to adapt quickly to the needs of small businesses and gather timely feedback to improve policy. H.R. 3351 reduces red tape and streamlines access to tools that the Office can utilize to gather more effective and timely data. The better information that the Office can gather, the better the SEC can respond, and the better off our small businesses will be.
I urge my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to support H.R. 3351. With that, I yield the balance of my time.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)
WASHINTGON D.C. –Today, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Native American Caucus,Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)andCongresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03), announced the new Vice Chairs of the Caucus.Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01)will serve as the Democrat Vice Chair, andCongressman Nick Begich (AK)will serve as the Republican Vice Chair.
After selecting the Vice Chairs, the Representatives released the following statements:
“I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve as Vice Chair for the Native American Caucus. It is our duty to ensure that the United States partners with and upholds its trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal Nations. This bipartisan caucus is integral to that work and the fight to protect and strengthen partnerships with Indigenous communities across the country. I look forward to continuing to do this work in the 119th Congress,” saidCongresswoman Stansbury (NM-01).
“I am excited to welcome Representatives Begich and Stansbury to the leadership team of the Congressional Native American Caucus. With their help, Congresswoman Davids and I will be able to better educate and inform Members of Congress on the unique issues concerning Native Americans and the constitutional rights of tribes. I look forward to all working together on this vital mission, which will improve the lives of tribes across the country,” saidCongressman Tom Cole (OK-04).
“It’s an important moment for the bipartisan Congressional Native American Caucus as we welcome Representatives Melanie Stansbury and Nick Begich as new Vice Chairs. Their dedication to Tribal communities and commitment to bipartisan collaboration will help us continue advancing policies that respect Tribal sovereignty and improve the lives of Native people across the country,” saidCongresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03).
“I am honored to be selected as a Co-Vice Chair of the Native American Caucus. Representing Alaska – home to over 200 federally recognized Tribes – I recognize the importance of advocating for the voices of Alaska Natives in Congress and many of the challenges tribal communities face. I look forward to working closely with my colleagues to advance lasting solutions that reinforce self-determination and well-being for Native Americans across the nation,” saidCongressman Nick Begich (AK).
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
World news story
UK and Chile sign MoU on Cooperation in Gender Equality
Signing of this MoU marks an important milestone in both countries’ commitment to a foreign policy agenda focused on women’s rights.
Baroness Chapman, Minister for International Development, Latin America and the Caribbean and Chile’s Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, Gloria de la Fuente González.
As part of the visit of Chile’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Gloria de la Fuente to the United Kingdom, and the UK and Chile’s shared commitment to promoting human rights and gender equality, the UK and Chile signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in Gender Equality on 2 May. The MoU, with the aim of establishing sustained mutual cooperation in this area, was signed by the Minister for Latin America, Baroness Chapman, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gloria de la Fuente, in London.
The MoU, the first of its kind that the United Kingdom has signed, marks an important milestone in both countries’ commitment to a foreign policy agenda focused on women’s rights and reflects a shared determination to move towards more equitable, inclusive and respectful societies.
Baroness Chapman, Minister for International Development, Latin America and the Caribbean, said:
Chile is a vital partner in our shared efforts to promote equality for women and girls.
The MoU establishes mechanisms for cooperation, political dialogue and best practices in key areas, such as the promotion of participation in international affairs and the political empowerment of women and girls.
Louise de Sousa, British Ambassador to Chile, said:
The signing of this memorandum strengthens bilateral ties between the United Kingdom and Chile and establishes cooperation to deliver equality for women and girls around the world.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
A study published in BMJ Open looks at the association between herpes simplex virus type 1 and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr Sheona Scales, Director of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK:
“There’s an increasing amount of evidence that suggests our body’s response to certain viruses could put us at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in later life.
“These recent findings from a large study using US health records propose that infection with HSV-1 – a common virus that causes cold sores – may be associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers also state that taking medicines to treat HSV-1 infections could reduce the risk, but this is still very early work and needs more investigation.
“Despite the large sample size, this research has limitations partly due to only using health records and administrative claims data. Most people infected with HSV-1 don’t have any symptoms so some infections might not have been recorded. Infections predating the information recorded are also not available. Although cases were matched with controls, diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease, especially in the early stages, remains a challenge.
“The study authors found that some people receiving medicines to treat HSV-1 infections had a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, however a lot more work is needed to unpick this.
“We know there are 14 established risk factors for dementia, and there’s not enough evidence to include infections in this list. This study doesn’t tell us if infections are causing the risk, it only shows an association. Further research is needed to understand what the underlying biology around this is.”
Prof Cornelia van Duijn, Professor of Epidemiology at the Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, said:
“Again a carefully conducted study adding to the growing evidence that various common viruses may determine the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, in particular in the elderly (70+ years).
“Matching Alzheimer’s patients carefully with controls in the IQVIA PharMetrics Plus claims database, the study further shows that treating those with an active herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1) infection with antiherpetic medication reduces the risk and postpones the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
“Smaller but significant effects are also seen for HSV-2 and varicella zoster virus (VZV). With many GPs and the population being unaware of the dementia related benefits of treating HSV infections and preventing VZV activation through vaccination, it is time to call for actions informing those working in primary care as well as the population at large.”
Dr David Vickers, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Canada, said:
“Declining HSV-1 rates in the U.S. since the late-70’s challenge the authors’ claim that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) will surge without intervention. This pharma-funded research exaggerates the role of HSV-1, failing to appreciate its absence in 99.56% of AD cases. The observed 17% hazard reduction with antiherpetic drugs translates to a mere nine-month delay in AD onset, offering no meaningful relief to the US$305 billion costs for treatment.
“The study’s data source makes its findings ungeneralisable, and it overstates a minor infection as a ‘public health priority’ to justify unnecessary treatment.”
Prof Tara Spires-Jones, Director of the Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences at the University of Edinburgh, said:
“This study reports that diagnosis of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection is associated with increased risk of diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia. Scientists examined data from almost 700,000 people in a medical insurance claims database and found that in addition to an increased proportion of people with Alzheimer’s disease having a diagnosis of HSV-1, people with HSV-1 who were treated for the viral infection with “antiherpetic” medication were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s than those who did not have treatment.
“This is a well-conducted study adding to strong data in the field linking HSV-1 and other viral infections to increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, but it is important to note that HSV-1 infection, which is extremely common in the population, is by no means a guarantee that someone will develop Alzheimer’s.
“Why viral infections may increase risk of dementia is not fully understood, but the most likely explanation is that infections increase inflammation in the body and contribute to age-related brain inflammation. More research is needed to understand the best way to protect our brains from Alzheimer’s disease as we age, including a better understanding of links between viral infection and Alzheimer’s risk.”
Dr Richard Oakley, Director of Research and Innovation at Alzheimer’s Society, said:
“This study adds to the growing interest in a possible link between the virus that causes cold sores and Alzheimer’s disease. Results from this observational study suggested that people with recorded cold sore infections were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, and interestingly those prescribed antiviral drugs had a slightly lower risk.
“But this doesn’t prove that cold sores cause Alzheimer’s disease, or that antivirals prevent it. The data came from insurance records, often based on self-reported symptoms which may miss or misclassify infections, and didn’t track how often people had cold sores or how consistently they took medication.
“Much more research is needed to explore exactly how viruses might be involved and before we can draw firm conclusions. It is critical we explore every avenue to understand the complex causes of the diseases which cause dementia – infections are a growing area of interest.
“If you are worried about a cold sore or your general health, be sure to seek the appropriate help from a health professional.”
From the Spanish SMC:
Prof Alberto Ascherio, Professor of Epidemiology and Nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (United States) and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, said:
“This is a high-quality study that stands out mainly for its sample size. The results confirm previous findings that people with a history of cold sores have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and that this risk appears to be reduced in people who receive antiviral treatment.
“This is an observational study based on electronic data of varying quality, so the conclusions cannot be considered definitive. For example, the vast majority of cold sore episodes are not reported in medical records, so the study’s conclusions apply to a highly selected subgroup of individuals with clinical episodes of cold sores, perhaps due to clinical severity or the presence of other factors. For this reason, it would be premature for people with cold sores to worry about having an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. However, there is growing evidence that viral infections may affect the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and it is important to initiate more definitive research.”
From the Australian SMC:
Prof Ashley Bush, Clinical Lead Mental Health Mission at The Florey, Australia, said:
“This is an important, large, case-control epidemiology study that shows that people suffering with Alzheimer’s disease or with other Alzheimer-like dementia (e.g. fronto-temporal dementia) are substantially (about 80%) more likely to have been infected with the viruses that cause cold sores, genital herpes, chicken pox or shingles. Further, people who were taking antivirals for cold sores were 17% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease over a 15 year period.
“These findings come in the wake of another recent report1 that showed that shingles vaccination decreased the probability of a new dementia diagnosis during the follow-up period of 7 years by 2%. Some scientists like Prof Ruth Itzhaki in Manchester and the late Rob Moir at Harvard have proposed that dementias like Alzheimer’s are provoked by viral infection. Herpes virus lives dormant in nerve cells, and it is thought that the pathology of the dementia is brought about by a defence to these infection gone wrong.
“It is unlikely that viral infection can explain all causes of dementia, but these recent papers implicate the infections are playing a role in accelerating these diseases. It certainly encourages more research in this direction and as to whether lifelong antivirals should be considered as preventive therapy for people who have had one of these infections.”
1(Pomirchy M, Bommer C, Pradella F, Michalik F, Peters R, Geldsetzer P. Herpes Zoster Vaccination and Dementia Occurrence. JAMA. 2025 Apr 23; Epub 2025 Apr 23)
Prof Brenda Gannon, Professor of the Health Economics of Ageing at the University of Queensland, said:
“This research provides further evidence for the link between the common cold sores from HSV1 and Alzheimer’s Disease. The study now proposes that people with HSV who are treated with anti-viral medicine are less likely to develop AD. Using large scale administrative data from the US, the findings are suggestive of a protective effect of anti-viral treatment. This could be beneficial for Australians who suffer from the common cold sores and who would benefit from anti-viral treatment for their cold sores. It does not mean it could reduce the probability of AD.
“Further research would be required to ensure the study is more widely representative, since the authors note that not all populations are included in the data, e.g. those over 65 who receive free health care (Medicare). The study does not provide detail on who may benefit, for example does it help disadvantaged groups more, and who does it work together with other non-pharmacological treatments for lifestyle improvement.
“Overall, the study indicates some potential, but much more research would be required to determine if the anti-viral therapies for people with cold cores, is in fact going to reduce their probability of getting Alzheimer’s disease.
“As the authors state, it does not indicate cause and effect, but they do find it a potential avenue to explore further.
“The study did not include public involvement – but inclusion of the public, even on an advisory capacity would be useful, to help design the research questions and relevant factors included in the study.
“From a health economics perspective, it is unlikely that anti-viral therapy would be funded for the Australian population, until further evidence on effectiveness in prevention and then cost-effectiveness overall, including additional use of health care resources, is provided. More details on the health and socio-economics status of individuals are also warranted, to help determine who may benefit from the therapy.”
‘Association between herpes simplex virus type 1 and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease: a retrospective case control study’ by Yunhao Liu et al. was published in BMJ Open at 23.30 on Tuesday 20 May.
DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-093946
Declared interests
Cornelia van Duijn: “I receive funding from GSK (related to VZV vaccination) and NovoNordisk (unrelated to virus treatment/prevention), and have received funding from JNJ/Jansen Pharmaceutics (unrelated to virus treatment/prevention).”
David Vickers: “I have no interests or conflicts, financial or otherwise, to declare.”
Tara Spires-Jones: “I have no conflicts with this study but have received payments for consulting, scientific talks, or collaborative research over the past 10 years from AbbVie, Sanofi, Merck, Scottish Brain Sciences, Jay Therapeutics, Cognition Therapeutics, Ono, and Eisai. I am also Charity trustee for the British Neuroscience Association and the Guarantors of Brain and serve as scientific advisor to several charities and non-profit institutions.”
Ashley Bush: “I have no relevant conflicts.”
Brenda Gannon: “No COI”
For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.
Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines
Howick’s green spaces are growing stronger thanks to ecological efforts funded by the Howick Local Board — and the community is part of the story.
Across parks and reserves, an ecological restoration programme is quietly transforming the landscape in Howick.
Weeds are being removed, native plants are going in, and habitats are coming back to life. It’s all part of a wider effort happening right now to restore local nature, support wildlife, and protect our environment.
This work shows a real commitment to helping Howick’s green spaces thrive—not just now, but for the long run.
Board chair Damian Light says, “Our environment / Tō Tātou Taiao, is a key part of our local board plan. We are committed to protecting and nurturing our natural surroundings, ensuring that we leave a healthy, well-cared-for world for future generations. We can’t do this alone and we’re committed to empowering the community to take environmental action with practical support.”
Chisbury Terrace, Shelley Park.
The restoration programme spans 28 local sites, covering a total of 133 hectares. This includes well-loved places like Macleans Park, Point View Reserve, Whitford Road Esplanade, Te Naupata / Musick Point Park, and Mangemangeroa Reserve—just to name a few.
Whether it’s getting involved in planting days, joining a weeding bee, learning about native species, or simply enjoying the spaces and treating them with care, small actions add up.
Senior Ecological Specialist Jillana Robertson adds, “We’re in a constant battle against invasive species. Without pest control contracts, our parks would be overrun by weeds like moth plant and climbing asparagus, while rats and possums would devastate native wildlife. These green spaces play a vital role in erosion control, stormwater filtering, and carbon storage—but Council’s budget can’t cover it all year round. Volunteers are essential and work alongside contractors to protect these ecosystems.”
Murphy’s Bush Reserve.
As progress continues, the changes—and the benefits—will become easier to see. The goal is cleaner waterways, healthier ecosystems, and greener spaces for everyone to enjoy.
King Fern or Para at Pt View Reserve (at risk species).
Light shares, “Howick is a busy, growing part of Auckland — full of homes, shops, roads, and people. But with all that growth, we’ve lost a lot of our natural spaces. Only a small amount of native bush remains, mostly in places like Point View Reserve, Murphy’s Bush, and Mangemangeroa Reserve. These special spots are now more important than ever.”
Support is going into restoring nature across the area – through planting, pest control, and stream clean-ups – to protect wildlife, care for the land, and create clean, green spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Stay connected
Sign up to receive our Howick Local Board monthly e-newsletters.
With Budget 2025 being released tomorrow, businesses across Canterbury will be watching closely to see what’s on the table. With clear signals from the Government that this year’s budget has been signalled as a tight one, the focus for business will be on how the initiatives, continued or added, can support economic growth and create the right conditions for them to invest and grow.
Business Canterbury will be releasing a response to Budget 2025 by 3:00pm tomorrow, and Leeann Watson will be available for comment following.
On pre-Budget expectations, Business Canterbury Chief Executive Leeann Watson says, “The key area businesses will be looking at is continued investment in infrastructure, careful spending to continue the downward trend in inflation and interest rates, and initiatives that enable and help boost investment in R&D and growth.
“Two key areas are top of mind for our business community, and this starts with the Government having a long-term plan that focuses on infrastructure investment. New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit continues to grow, and here in the South Island, strong connections to ports, airports, and across the supply chain are essential for the connectivity of our exports, imports and people.
“Investment in critical transport links, including the Interislander replacements and roading projects, needs to remain a priority, even in a fiscally constrained environment. When the economy turns a corner, we need the infrastructure in place to support it.
“Our latest Quarterly Canterbury Business Survey results showed increasing confidence, but this optimism hasn’t yet translated into investment. The right policy settings could shift that.
“Targeted business support that enables innovation and investment, especially among SMEs, will be hugely important as we look ahead at a better economy, but with intentions around investment and creating jobs remaining subdued. Practical and efficient support for research and development, such as accelerated depreciation for R&D activities, for example, would give businesses the confidence to invest now in future growth.
About Business Canterbury
Business Canterbury, formerly Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, is the largest business support agency in the South Island and advocates on behalf of its members for an environment more favourable to innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.
61% of New Zealand workers would be compelled to change jobs for a higher salary
20% is the most common pay rise that would compel workers to leave
Only 40% of workers say their current salary is an accurate reflection of their expertise, experience and/or level of responsibility
Only 16% of workers believe pay is more important than job security in the current labour market.
Auckland, 21 May 2025 – Money talks for the majority of Kiwi employees with 61% of workers who say they would feel compelled to change jobs if they came across another position with a higher salary, new independent research by specialised recruiter Robert Half finds.
Meanwhile, 39% of workers say they would not be lured away from their current position by another job with a higher salary: About a quarter (24%) of workers admit they would change jobs without an increase in salary if it was the right opportunity, and 15% are content in their current role and would not move regardless of the salary offered.
How much more money do office workers want?
When asked what percentage salary increase would compel them to change jobs right now, 20% was the most common pay rise cited by workers.
The % increase that would compel workers to change jobs
% of workers who would be compelled at this increase
5%
2%
10%
9%
15%
9%
20%
13%
25%
9%
30%
8%
35%
5%
40% or above
7%
Independent survey commissioned by Robert Half among 500 full-time office workers in New Zealand.
“Money continues to be a powerful influence,” says Ronil Singh, Director at Robert Half. “But even when pay is a primary concern, many employees are weighing financial desires against the need for job security, especially as organisations focus on efficiency and streamlining operations. The balancing act between meeting immediate financial needs and building a sustainable career can be challenging in an uncertain job market.”
Workers don’t feel they are paid what they are worth
When workers were asked if they felt their current salary reflected their expertise, experience and level of responsibility, less than half (40%) agreed that they were paid appropriately.
The remaining 60% of workers state an increased salary would better reflect what they bring to their role and the work required of them. Most workers (30%) believe their salary needs to increase by 10%-20% to be an accurate reflection of their expertise, experience and/or level of responsibility.
The % salary increase required to accurately reflect the worker’s ability and position
% of workers
5%
2%
10%
10%
15%
9%
20%
11%
25%
9%
30% or above
19%
Independent survey commissioned by Robert Half among 500 full-time office workers in New Zealand.
“The research shows that many workers feel their pay doesn’t reflect their worth, revealing a disconnect between what employees expect and what they currently earn,” Singh says. “This sentiment can be due to stagnant wages despite increased responsibilities or a perception, whether accurate or not, that their compensation lags behind industry standards for similar roles.”
“To counter these sentiments, employers must offer competitive salaries that reflect the value employees bring and transparently communicate the specifics of their compensation packages to each individual. Leveraging tools such as the Robert Half’s 2025 Salary Guide will ensure employees are paid at the prevailing market rate for their roles, which can mitigate dissatisfaction and resignations.”
Job security is still important for workers
When asked whether job security is more important than salary, less than one in five (16%) workers are prepared to prioritise money ahead of having a secure job. Most workers (47%) state that both are equally important, while a similar proportion (37%) prioritise job security over their salary.
“While salary remains a key consideration, job security is also a number one priority for many workers, especially in the current economic climate. Companies that can offer both competitive compensation and a stable work environment will be best positioned to secure and retain their workforce,” concludes Singh.
Notes
About the research
The study is developed by Robert Half and was conducted online in November 2024 by an independent research company among 500 full-time office workers in finance, accounting, and IT and technology. Respondents are drawn from a sample of SMEs as well as large private, publicly-listed and public sector organisations across New Zealand. This survey is part of the international workplace survey, a questionnaire about job trends, talent management, and trends in the workplace.
About Robert Half
Robert Half is the global, specialised talent solutions provider that helps employers find their next great hire and jobseekers uncover their next opportunity. Robert Half offers both contract and permanent placement services, and is the parent company of Protiviti, a global consulting firm. Robert Half New Zealand has an office in Auckland. More information on roberthalf.com/nz.
A member of the public contacted us because they’d noticed some rubbish strewn along a street. It included prescription labels with a person’s name and address. The nature of the prescription clearly indicated the condition of the patient who was being treated with the medication.
The person who discovered the prescription labels informed our Office and we contacted the agency most likely responsible and discussed the situation with them. The health agency’s rubbish was supposed to have been double-bagged, which would usually prevent spillages. However, the agency also had access to a secure shredding service and is now looking at using that service to dispose of prescription labels on cardboard packaging.
Each agency is responsible for working out a practical solution that works for their circumstances.
An individual agency needs to work out for themselves how it’s best to dispose of this kind of waste. A useful check is to ask what steps you would expect to be taken if the personal information belonged to you.
At home, you might want to rip labels off cardboard packaging and recycle the cardboard while disposing of the prescription label in some other way.
Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement after Senate Republicans announced their plans to defy the Senate parliamentarian and force a vote to overturn California’s Clean Energy Air Act Waivers:
“If Senate Republicans force a vote on the California Clean Air Act Waivers, they set a precedent that will allow Congress to overturn nearly any agency decision nationwide. I urge my colleagues to reject this gross overreach. If they don’t, Congressional Review Act resolutions will quickly hijack the Senate floor to retroactively invalidate agency permits, adjudications, and licensing decisions – actions that were never previously considered ‘rules.’
“We need a reliable energy permitting and approval system if we are going to meet our growing energy needs. But under Republicans’ proposal, Congress could invalidate permits for new oil and gas wells, established rights of way for transmission lines, and approvals of new LNG export terminals. That includes the Department of Energy’s recent approval of Commonwealth LNG’s application to export liquified natural gas. If not challenged immediately, a future administration could also submit Commonwealth’s authorization as a rule retroactively and halt the project years after it has begun construction.
“By opening this door, Republicans threaten to destroy our permitting and regulatory system, leading to higher energy costs for Americans and making it impossible for new developments to come online. Indeed, nearly every major and minor project the federal government touches could be stalled, creating significant uncertainty if not complete chaos. That is not what the American people want, and it cannot be what Senate Republicans want, either.”
Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) grilled Billy Long, President Trump’s nominee to lead the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), about his involvement in a tax fraud scheme in which he encouraged people to claim a fake Tribal tax credit. Long repeatedly failed to provide her with clear answers.
Long has close ties to Capital Edge and the White River Energy Corporation, which promoted Tribal tax credits that the IRS later confirmed do not exist. Long reported earning $65,000 for his work related to the scheme. Cortez Masto has repeatedly sounded the alarm about Long’s alleged participation in tax fraud. Last month, she called for a criminal investigation into this scheme, and last week, she demanded answers from the White River Energy Corporation. Long suddenly received thousands of dollars campaign donations from individuals employed by these companies shortly after he was nominated to serve as IRS Commissioner, which he used to pay off a personal loan to his campaign.
Cortez Masto pressed Long on his admission that he was involved in the scam, saying “In response to the question ‘How many Tribal tax credit referrals did you work on for Capital Edge and White River?’ […] you responded, ‘Less than ten close friends and acquaintances to Capital Edge.’ So, you did refer Tribal tax credits to individuals, correct?”
“I referred them to Capital Edge Strategies, yes,” Long replied.
“Knowing that they are illegal, and the IRS has said they are illegal, how do you stand here before this committee and tell the Chairman just a few minutes ago that you have no conflict of interest?” Cortez Masto asked.
Mr. Long did not provide a clear answer.
“We have asked the IRS to investigate these Tribal tax credits and the scam, and the companies that were involved, and some of the companies allegedly that were involved were [White River Energy Corporation], a company that you received compensation from,” Cortez Masto said. “How can you sit here today and say there’s no conflict knowing now that there is an investigation underway with the IRS and we’re asking them to look at this scam and it may involve a company that you are affiliated with?”
As the former top law enforcement official in Nevada, Senator Cortez Masto has been a leading voice fight fraud throughout her career. She sounded the alarm on increasing check fraud scams, which cost consumers millions of dollars each year. She introduced legislation to protect and support whistleblowers reporting wrongdoing to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and her bipartisan legislation to deter disruptive and potentially harmful phone calls and texts was signed into law in 2020.
Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) celebrated the Senate passage of her bipartisan bill to exempt tipped wages from federal income tax. Thanks to the state’s world class service and hospitality industries, Nevada has the highest concentration of tipped workers in the country, and the No Tax on Tips Act will allow these workers to keep more of their hard-earned money. Cortez Masto encourages her colleagues in the House of Representatives to move forward with a clean version of this legislation, instead of attaching it to their harmful billionaire tax plan that cuts Medicaid and raises taxes on the working class.
“I’m happy to work with anyone on legislation that’s going to improve Nevadans’ lives, and I’m pleased that my bipartisan bill to put more money in the pockets of hardworking Nevadans has passed the Senate,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Tipped workers are the backbone of Nevada’s economy, and with prices skyrocketing, working families deserve this break. I hope the House of Representatives passes this bill that permanently ends federal taxes on tips, instead of House Republicans’ unserious version that sunsets no taxes on tips in just four years while gutting health care for the very working families they say they are standing with.”
The bill exempts “cash tips” – cash, credit and debit card charges, and checks – from federal income tax by allowing taxpayers to claim a 100% deduction at filing for tipped wages. The updated text includes guardrails and income limits to ensure only traditionally tipped employees will benefit from No Tax on Tips. The legislation is cosponsored by Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.).
This bill is just a piece of Senator Cortez Masto’s robust efforts to cut taxes and lower costs for hardworking Nevadans. Senator Cortez Masto helped introduce the Working Families Tax Relief Act to lower taxes for Nevada families by expanding the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit. Additionally, she supports raising the federal minimum wage and eliminating the minimum wage gap for tipped workers nationally. Nevada is one of seven states that already requires employers to pay tipped workers the full minimum wage rather than a sub-minimum wage.
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
May 20, 2025
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today participated in a Subcommittee hearing entitled “A Review of the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the U.S. Department of State.” During the hearing, Durbin questioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the humanitarian crisis happening in Gaza and whether the response from the State Department has been adequate. According to UN estimates, 14,000 babies in Gaza could die in the next 48 hours if aid does not reach Gaza.
“Three countries—France, United Kingdom, and Canada—made a statement, which I would like to summarize. You probably know it already. They said the resumption of aid into Gaza by Israel [is] ‘wholly inadequate.’ The United Kingdom paused free-trade talks with Israel and sanctioned Israeli settlers. And in the joint message by these three countries, allies of the United States, [they said] ‘If Israel does not cease the renewed military offensive and lift restrictions on humanitarian aid, we will take further, concrete action in response.’ Are we on the wrong side of history in watching this unfold and not responding as these three countries have?” Durbin asked.
Secretary Rubio responded, “We are not prepared to respond the way these countries have.” He also continued to state that there is “an immediate, acute challenge of food and aid not reaching people and existing distribution systems that could get them there. So, we continue to work.” Secretary Rubio also continued to say that there should be a shared goal of defeating Hamas and ensuring the Palestinian people receive the aid they desperately need.
“I agree with you. I think what you just said should be our policy. But I do not think we should use these people—these Palestinians, particularly these children—as just a casualty of war. This is a designed attack by Israel into Gaza. This is a designed decision by Israel not to provide humanitarian aid, food, medicine, [and] water. We provide quite a bit of money to Israel for its own defense and other purposes. Shouldn’t we be more forthcoming to speak out about this humanitarian crisis?” Durbin asked.
Durbin concluded, “What are we waiting for? The children are dying.”
Today, Durbin joined Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) in cosponsoring a resolution calling on the Trump Administration to use all diplomatic tools at its disposal to bring an end to the blockade of food and lifesaving humanitarian aid to address the needs of civilians in Gaza. In the resolution, Senators express grave concern about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including the imminent starvation of tens of thousands of children.
Video of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
Audio of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
Footage of Durbin’s question in Committee is available here for TV stations.
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Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
May 20, 2025
Today’s hearing highlighted the growing use of drones and how Congress can strike the right balance in response
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned witnesses during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled “Defending Against Drones: Setting Safeguards for Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems Authorities.” Today’s hearing highlighted the growing use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, and how Congress can strike the right balance in response. It also examined the existing statutory authorities that enable the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to track, disable, seize, and even shoot down drones. Finally, the hearing also provided an opportunity to consider how to provide sufficient authorities to law enforcement while also safeguarding the national airspace and important privacy rights and civil liberties—including ensuring that actions to counter drones respect First and Fourth Amendment rights and Fifth Amendment due process.
Durbin began by asking Professor Laura Donohue, Professor of Law at Georgetown University; Director of Georgetown’s Center on National Security and the Law; and Director of the Center on Privacy and Technology, about the balance of protecting privacy and civil liberties, as well as our security, when it comes to the use of UAS.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there are more than one million drones registered in the United States for commercial and recreational purposes. While most are harmless, UAS can pose serious safety risks when flown near airports, other critical infrastructure, or near mass gatherings like sporting events, parades, or concerts. Drones can also be used by malicious actors including criminals, cartels, terrorist groups, and foreign adversaries.
“If I were sitting in Wrigley Field… and I saw a drone overhead, I would want to be sure it was a safe and friendly drone. I don’t know that when I’m sitting there. Somebody has to find out or at least ask the question. With over one million drones in our country today… it raises a question of who is going to monitor that activity to make sure these are safe… [and] don’t endanger anyone. At the same time, those drones could be gathering information… and there is a privacy angle there too. Who is protecting the privacy of the people that they are gathering information on?”Durbin said. “How do you balance this?”
Professor Donohue responded, “As a matter of large scale, outdoor events, most states have regulations and law in place that prohibit the use of drones over large scale events” and noted that many have carveouts that don’t allow others to fly drones over private property without the consent of the property owner themselves. She also noted that the way to balance civil liberties concerns is to make sure there are restrictions.
Durbin continued by asking Professor Donohue, “Let’s talk about the practical world: you have air traffic controllers monitoring commercial aircraft… but in terms of monitoring actual drone activity to the point of knowing whether it is complying with the state law and if it is not, what to do about it, what’s the answer there? How is it enforced?”
Professor Donohue responded that both states and the FAA play a role. Currently, DOJ and DHS are also authorized to conduct counter drone operations to protect certain covered facilities and assets related to their missions. However, existing authorities do not sufficiently cover airports, critical infrastructure, or events that federal authorities do not have the capacity or resources to protect. The way to balance these authorities with civil liberties, Professor Donohue noted, is to make sure that there are appropriate restrictions on these authorities.
Durbin concluded by asking, “Professor Donohue, if counter drone authorities are not drafted carefully, could they permit government authorities to intercept data or communications in violation of the Fourth Amendment?”
Professor Donohue simply responded, “Yes.”
Video of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
Audio of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here.
Footage of Durbin’s questions in Committee is available here for TV Stations.
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Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, today reintroduced the Embracing anti-Discrimination, Unbiased Curricula and Advancing Truth in Education (EDUCATE) Act, which would block federal funding for medical schools and accrediting institutions that force students to affirm ideological beliefs and prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
“Medical schools should be in the business of training our future doctors to save lives—not indoctrinating students with anti-American DEI ideology. The EDUCATE Act would make sure the government isn’t wasting your money on woke struggle sessions and blatant discrimination in medical schools,” said Kennedy.
Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) joined Kennedy in reintroducing the bill in the Senate.
“For too long the radical Left has used our education system to advance their woke DEI agenda rather than advancing scientific achievement. This has now injected itself into medical schools across the nation putting the lives of countless Americans in danger all to appease the woke mob. I am proud to be leading this legislation to once again put merit above social justice quotas,” said Schmitt.
Rep. Greg Murphy (R-N.C.) reintroduced the bill in the House of Representatives.
“American medical schools are the best in the world and should remain free from discrimination, politicization, and acceptance of anything other than excellence. The EDUCATE Act bans race-based mandates at medical schools, protects the First Amendment and civil rights of students, and promotes objective, science-based medicine. Excluding individuals based on appearance or beliefs in the name of diversity is wrong and debases the integrity of the profession. Doctors must be taught to treat patients with the highest quality of care regardless of who they are. This includes dealing with other medical professionals who may not look like they do. I have dedicated my life to serving others as a physician and will not stand for discrimination in our nation’s institutions of medicine,” said Murphy.
Kennedy and Murphy also authored this op-ed in the Washington Examiner urging Congress to pass their EDUCATE Act.
The EDUCATE Act would block federal funding from medical schools that:
Direct, compel or incentivize students, faculty or staff to affirm or adopt certain ideological tenets.
Take any action that would deprive a student of educational opportunities or otherwise adversely affect his or her status as a student on the basis of race or ethnicity.
Require a course of instruction that directs or compels students, faculty or staff to state, pledge, recite, affirm or adopt certain ideological tenets.
Maintain a DEI or equivalent office within the medical school.
Require or incentivize an individual to complete a diversity statement that affirms or capitulates to DEI as a condition of the person’s being admitted to or employed by a school.
Do No Harm, America First Policy Institute, Eagle Forum, Heritage Action and CPAC support the EDUCATE Act.
“Do No Harm applauds Congressman Murphy and Senator Kennedy for their relentless work to end harmful DEI practices and to restore integrity to American medical schools. For too long, accrediting bodies and medical colleges have prioritized identity politics over merit and expertise—putting patients’ health at serious risk. President Trump’s Administration has taken critical steps to dismantle these political activists’ grip on medical education, even causing some accreditors and schools to suspend their discriminatory practices. But the EDUCATE Act could enshrine the President’s actions into law, thereby eradicating DEI programs from medical education permanently,” said Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, founder and Board Chairman of Do No Harm.
“Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are an offshoot of Critical Race Theory—designed to promote race-stereotyping, race-exclusion, and indoctrination into divisive far-left ideologies. When publicly funded universities and medical schools teach students to make snap judgments about each other and our broader society based on skin color, they are conditioning them to reject foundational American commitments, including equal treatment and opportunity for all, administrative impartiality, and due process. Congressman Murphy’s bill is an essential first step toward restoring academic excellence and truth-seeking as the focal points of medical education so that tomorrow’s health professionals are prepared to provide exceptional care to every patient, regardless of their race or sex,” said Dr. Michael Shires, Ph.D., Vice Chair of Education Opportunity at the America First Policy Institute.
“DEI has invaded US medical schools like a virus in recent years—harming these institutions and the public as well. Senator Kennedy’s EDUCATE Act is the cure. We urge the Senate to move this bill forward,” said Kris Ullman, President of the Eagle Forum.
Full text of the EDUCATE Act is available here.
Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed Sen. John Kennedy’s (R-La.) joint resolution of disapproval under Congressional Review Act (CRA) procedures to block an Office of Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) rule that delays the bank merger approval process by adding more red tape that could lead to consumer uncertainty. It now moves to the president’s desk for signing.
“When the Biden administration decided to tinker with bank merger rules for no good reason, they threw a gut punch to small community banks just trying to offer their customers a good service. I’m grateful to the U.S. House of Representatives for doing the right thing, and I look forward to President Trump signing my resolution to undo this cumbersome regulation,” said Kennedy.
Rep. Andy Barr (R-Ky.), chairman of the Financial Institutions Subcommittee on the House Financial Services Committee, introduced the companion resolution in the House of Representatives.
“Bank mergers create competition and efficiency in the banking system. By eliminating this rule, we will remove unnecessary guardrails on the bank merger process that make smaller and medium-sized banks less competitive. This is another win for President Trump, who is making our economy stronger by cutting government red-tape and unleashing the free market,” said Barr.
The Biden administration’s rule, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, amended the Bank Merger Act of 1960 to make it harder for the OCC to approve healthy bank mergers quickly. Kennedy’s resolution would reverse the Biden administration’s misguided rule so that banks can stay in business and serve hardworking Americans.
Background:
Historically, the OCC assumed that a potential merger passed muster if the agency took no action on a merger application within 15 days. The burden of showing that a merger would harm business and consumers fell on the OCC and bank regulators.
The Biden administration’s rule shifted the burden of proof to individual banks, making it harder for banks—particularly community banks—to fulfill their obligations by making smart, strategic mergers.
In Feb. 2025, Kennedy introduced his resolution to undo the Biden administration’s rule.
On May 8, 2025, the Senate passed Kennedy’s resolution of disapproval. Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) were cosponsors.
The American Bankers Association (ABA) supports Kennedy’s resolution.
“We applaud today’s House passage of the Congressional Review Act resolution nullifying the OCC’s flawed bank merger rule, and we thank Rep. Andy Barr for leading this effort. This action, along with the companion resolution led by Sen. John Kennedy and passed by the Senate, will provide regulators with the opportunity to reenvision the framework governing bank mergers so that it more effectively promotes competition while allowing banks to better serve their customers. We look forward to President Trump signing this important resolution into law,” said Rob Nichols, President and CEO of the ABA.
Text of the resolution is available here.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in human resources (HR) to streamline processes and enhance decision-making by helping employers efficiently sift through large volumes of job applications.
However, relying on AI tools alone to screen candidates isn’t enough to improve diversity outcomes in workplaces, according to new research by the University of South Australia.
Human resource management expert Associate Professor Connie Zheng, co-director of UniSA’s Centre for Workplace Excellence, has conducted research into how AI can affect hiring decisions when it comes to improving diversity and inclusion by reaching gender quotas, having racially diverse teams and recruiting LGBTIQA+ employees or people with disabilities.
AI tools are being used by some HR professionals to assist in the recruitment process by screening job candidates, responding to applicant emails, or focusing on specialised tasks such as CV screening, job matching or voice and video analysis.
Assoc Prof Zheng says two separate studies into the use of AI to enhance diversity and inclusion in hiring decisions looked beyond whether humans or AI make better choices.
“We explored what conditions help AI tools to actually support more diverse hiring as we found that simply having a reliable AI tool isn’t enough to improve diversity in workplace recruitment,” she says.
“Diversity only improves when the AI system can explain its decisions in terms of diversity, when hiring focuses on qualitative goals and not just numbers, and when an organisation has clear diversity guidelines.
“These factors encourage HR professionals and decision-makers to reflect more carefully on their choices. In short, AI can help improve diversity in hiring, but only when used under the right conditions and organisational support for the application of new technology, as well as clear diversity, equity and inclusion guidelines.”
Despite the growing popularity of AI in many fields including education, health care, manufacturing and finance, many HR professionals are hesitant to adopt the tools.
Assoc Prof Zheng says some companies have several concerns and are reluctant to invest in AI for hiring decisions because they’re apprehensive about the limitations of the technology, particularly in terms of biased data.
She says many also feel their existing HR teams are competent enough to manage recruitment without AI, despite these concerns shifting if HR departments face staffing reductions, increased workloads or heightened demands for efficiency.
“Despite these reservations, many organisations view AI as a way to significantly save costs by streamlining manual processes. Some companies have the mindset that using AI in HR is efficiency driven – it will make them work faster. The main goal of using AI is to expedite the process, particularly when dealing with large volumes of job applications,” Assoc Prof Zheng says.
“With AI, a hirer can use the technology to filter appropriate applicants rather than sifting through hundreds of CVs and job applications manually. The problem when the main goal is efficiency is that diversity issues often then take a backseat.”
Whether the use of AI tools in recruiting helps reduce discrimination or instead intensifies the problem remains a subject of controversial debate. Assoc Prof Zheng’s ongoing collaborative research with HUMAINE – Human Centred AI Network led by Professor Uta Wilkens at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany – has revealed that simply providing a reliable, AI support tool that is considerate of diversity needs doesn’t automatically lead to diversity enhancement.
“Unless the organisation and its hirers are conscious about diversity and justice issues, using AI for talent acquisition isn’t going to lead to more diverse and inclusive outcomes,” Assoc Prof Zheng says.
To access the research papers:
Wilkens, U., Lutzeyer, I., Zheng, C., Beser, A., & Prilla, M. (2025). Augmenting diversity in hiring decisions with artificial intelligence tools. The International Journal of Human Resource Management, 1–38. https://doi.org/10.1080/09585192.2025.2492867
Zheng, C., Wilkens, U. (2025). Antecedents of Enhancing Diversity and Inclusion with AI Tools—An HR Perspective. In: Moussa, M., McMurray, A. (eds) The Palgrave Handbook of Breakthrough Technologies in Contemporary Organisations. Palgrave Macmillan, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-96-2516-1_12
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Contact for interview: Connie Zheng, Associate Professor in Human Resource Management, Co-Director, Centre for Workplace Excellence, UniSA, E:Connie.Zheng@unisa.edu.au Media contact: Melissa Keogh, Communications Officer, UniSA M: +61 403 659 154 E:melissa.keogh@unisa.edu.au
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)
Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV) and Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) introduced bipartisan legislation today to close a loophole that allows taxpayer dollars to be used to subsidize lobbying by large agricultural interests at the expense of smaller producers and consumers.
The Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act refines the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s checkoff programs by closing a loophole that allows taxpayer dollars to be used for lobbying. The programs were established by the federal government and are funded through compulsory fees on producers of milk, eggs, beef, and other agricultural products so that members of the agricultural industry could pool their financial resources for promotional and research purposes. But lax oversight at the federal level has allowed harmful collusion between the boards governing these programs and the agriculture lobby.
“This system has been abused by big agricultural interests,” Congresswoman Titus said. “Their lobbyists have pushed Congress to enact laws that benefit only them. With too many Nevadans bearing the brunt of higher food prices, big ag corporations should be working to keep costs low, not lining their own pockets by promoting anticompetitive practices. I’m pushing this bipartisan legislation to increase federal oversight, prevent conflicts of interest, and stop ag lobbyists from squeezing small producers out of business.”
The OFF Act targets the influence of agriculture lobbyists and prohibits anticompetitive behavior by preventing USDA checkoff programs from paying organizations that lobby on agricultural issues, banning activities that involve a conflict of interest, and requiring audits to ensure compliance.
“We applaud the Members of Congress for their long-term leadership and for introducing the bipartisan, bicameral OFF Act and call on both the House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders to stand up for American family farmers by moving this legislation swiftly through their committees,” said Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets. “If we’re going to be forced to pay into USDA’s checkoff programs then the very least we should expect is transparency, accountability, and oversight of our hard-earned dollars, and the OFF Act accomplishes just that.”
“Scandal after scandal has proven the long-term corruption in the beef, dairy, and pork checkoff programs that continue to utilize our own tax dollars against us and the day of reckoning is here,” said Mike Schultz, Founder of the Kansas Cattlemen’s Association and Vice-President at the Organization for Competitive Markets. “American family farmers are up in arms and are determined to see justice in the 119th Congress with the enactment of the OFF Act. Clean up decades of corruption.”
“America’s farmers and ranchers are fed up with their hard-earned money landing in the hands of corporate lobbyists,” said Farm Action Fund President and Missouri farmer Joe Maxwell. “We face enough hurdles as it is; the last thing we need is our own dollars extracted against our will and then used to illegally lobby on behalf of the largest corporations that are already squeezing us out of the market. It’s the USDA’s job to prevent this abuse, and they continue to fail us. The OFF Act’s common-sense reforms would ensure USDA performs stringent oversight so that farmers know exactly where their money is going.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)
Washington, D.C. – In a major milestone for online safety and the protection of minors, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), today celebrated the signing of the bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act, landmark legislation to crack down on non-consensual and sexually exploitative imagery, including dangerous AI-generated deepfakes.
“Let me be clear: no child, from Texas or anywhere in the world, should fall victim to AI-generated abuse,” said Dr. Cuellar. “Thanks to this law, families and individuals will finally have a way to demand action and accountability online. I’m proud to have worked with Senator Cruz, who co-led the bill in the Senate, and Congresswoman Salazar, who co-led it in the House, and I thank the president for swiftly signing it into law.”
The new law strengthens enforcement tools for law enforcement, speeds up the removal of abusive content, and protects lawful speech. For victims of AI-generated abuse, this law is more than legislation. It’s long-overdue justice and an important step forward in addressing the fast-evolving risks posed by artificial intelligence and online exploitation.
The TAKE IT DOWN Act passed both chambers with bipartisan support and was signed into law by President Trump on May 19, 2025.
At this year’s Western Premiers’ Conference, Premier Smith will champion Alberta’s priorities and work alongside fellow leaders to advance shared goals, including economic growth, job creation and the development of new economic corridors in every direction, including oil and gas pipelines, to secure long-term prosperity for all Canadians.
The Premiers will also discuss the state of Canada’s federation and set a clear path forward with the new federal government. Key topics will include expanding markets in the face of global uncertainty, accelerating nation-building projects, advancing economic and energy corridors, strengthening and fortifying the Arctic and improving access to affordable housing.
“This is a critical moment for Alberta and for the West. We cannot afford federal overreach into provincial jurisdiction to continue, or damaging federal policies to impact the upward trajectory of our economies. I will be at the table to advocate for Alberta’s interests, particularly the importance of new pipelines, in an effort to put the power of our economy back in the hands of western Canadians.”
The Western Premiers’ Conference is held annually and gathers Premiers and governments from Canada’s four western provinces (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba) and three territorial governments (Northwest Territories, Yukon, Nunavut) to work together on advancing western interests in the Canadian federation.
The Western Premiers’ Conference operates by consensus and the chair rotates on an annual basis. This year’s conference will be hosted by Premier of Northwest Territories R.J. Simpson.
Media are invited to a press conference following the conclusion of the Western Premiers’ Conference.
Western Premiers’ Conference Media Availability:
WHEN: Thursday, May 22, 2025, 3-3:30 MST
WHERE: Caribou Room, Chateau Nova, Yellowknife
Media are required to RSVP. Local media will be provided accreditation at the venue. Out of town media will be provided a meeting link.
To RSVP, please contact: Cabinet Communications Government of the Northwest Territories [email protected]
Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
Watch the full exchange HERE.
WASHINGTON, DC – During a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) blasted Secretary of State Marco Rubio for his complicity in the Trump Administration’s disastrous approach to U.S. foreign policy. Under Secretary Rubio’s leadership, the Administration has slashed development and humanitarian programs critical to our national security, including programs that then-Senator Rubio supported. In her line of questioning, Senator Rosen pressed Secretary Rubio about plans to eliminate the State Department’s Office of Global Women’s Issues, the Office of the Security Coordinator in Israel, and international vaccines through Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
Below is an excerpt from Senator Rosen’s introduction:
Senator Rosen: Secretary Rubio, I’m going to embrace my Jewish mother instincts for a moment.
As a mother, a senator, and a fellow human being, I can tell you that I’m not even mad anymore about your complicity in this Administration’s destruction of U.S. global leadership. I’m simply disappointed.
And I wonder if you’re proud of yourself in this moment when you go home to your family because I have always found you, Senator Rubio, to be a bipartisan pragmatic partner, a true believer that the U.S. is stronger when we lead with diplomacy and development. You have a strong record on this.
But I don’t recognize Secretary Rubio. A stalwart supporter of Israel, you have watched this Administration abandon Saudi normalization with Israel in order to pursue business deals. You were once a fierce critic of Vladimir Putin but you sat idly by as the President berated the elected leader of Ukraine for not capitulating to Russia. And worst of all, you’ve kneecapped foreign assistance, including programs that you previously championed and made America less safe, less strong, less prosperous in doing so.
I know you know this in your heart and I can’t make this point any better than you did yourself in 2019 when you said “Anybody who tells you that we can slash foreign aid and that will bring us to balance is lying to you.”
Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
Senator Rosen Asked For And Received Unanimous Consent To Pass Her Bill To Eliminate Federal Income Tax On Tips
Watch Senator Rosen’s remarks on the Senate floor HERE.
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) took to the Senate floor to ask for unanimous consent to pass her bipartisan No Tax on Tips Act, which would exempt American workers’ tipped wages from federal income tax. Senator Rosen successfully passed the bipartisan legislation after receiving no objections on the Senate floor. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives to be considered.
Nevada has the highest concentration of tipped workers in the nation, and the bipartisan No Tax on Tips Act would allow workers to keep their tips without paying federal income tax on them. This legislation also includes guardrails to ensure that it benefits Nevadans who need it most, and not CEOs and wealthy individuals.
Below are excerpts from Senator Rosen’s remarks:
“No tax on tips” was one of President Trump’s key promises to the American people, which he unveiled in my state of Nevada.
And, I am not afraid to embrace a good idea, wherever it comes from.
So I agreed we need to get this done. It’s not a time for politics, it’s a time for progress for hard-working Americans.
This bipartisan bill is a good idea. It has support from Democrats and Republicans, so we should pass it, well, as soon as possible, without any poison pills.
The problem is that House Republicans have included a version of the No Tax on Tips Act in their bigger budget bill, a bill that cuts Medicaid, SNAP, and other programs families rely on to give more tax breaks for billionaires and the ultra-wealthy.
We shouldn’t be forcing working families to choose between keeping their health care or keeping their tips, which is why we want this bipartisan bill on its own – on its own – not part of a harmful, extreme budget bill.
If we are serious about providing service employees with financial relief, let’s do it now, let’s do it today!
The American people, they get sick and tired of Washington games.
Let’s pass this bill without playing politics or taking away health care and food assistance from families who need it most.
Let’s pass it by itself.
And so that’s why I’m calling on the Senate to pass the bipartisan No Tax on Tips Act right here, right now, as a standalone bill.
We’re going to cut taxes for real hard-working Americans, for Nevadans, for everyone – not just for billionaires.
We’re going to cut taxes on service workers’ tips without cutting Medicaid or SNAP.
And let’s get this done with strong guardrails so CEOs and the ultra-wealthy don’t exploit loopholes meant to help working people. And let’s pass it today.
Nevadans sent me here to fight for them – and I’m going to keep working to lower costs, raise wages, and make sure the people who power our economy, our working families, can keep more of what they earn.
And through this bipartisan bill, it shows that I am not going to allow Washington gridlock and partisanship to block a bill without a fight. That’s why we’re going to pass it today.
I’m taking matters into my own hands with the support of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass our bipartisan No Tax on Tips Act by unanimous consent.