Source: Central Bank of Iceland
A statement of the Monetary Policy Committee will be published on the Central Bank of Iceland website tomorrow, Wednesday 21 May 2025 at 08:30 hrs. The Bank’s Monetary Bulletin will be published at 08:35 hrs. At 9:30 hrs., a webcast with a press conference on the statement and the contents of the Monetary Bulletin will be held.
Source: Apple
Headline: Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference kicks off June 9
May 20, 2025
UPDATE
Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference kicks off June 9
The annual online conference takes place June 9-13, promising a week of technology, innovation, and creativity
Today, Apple unveiled an exciting lineup for its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), including the Keynote and Platforms State of the Union. Taking place June 9-13, the free online conference will bring the global Apple developer community together to provide insights into the latest Apple tools, technologies, and features. Throughout the week, developers around the world can connect with Apple engineers, designers, and evangelists, and watch more than 100 sessions that will help them discover the newest enhancements to build platform-differentiating apps and games across Apple products. Apple will also welcome more than 1,000 developers and students to celebrate in person during a special event at Apple Park on June 9.
Apple Keynote
June 9, 10 a.m. PDT
WWDC25 kicks off with a first look at the groundbreaking updates coming to Apple platforms. The Keynote will be available to stream on apple.com, the Apple TV app, and the Apple YouTube channel. On-demand playback will be available after the conclusion of the stream.
Platforms State of the Union
June 9, 1 p.m. PDT
Following the Keynote, the Platforms State of the Union will take a deeper dive into the new tools that will further empower Apple developers, including advances across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, visionOS, and watchOS. The Platforms State of the Union will be available to stream on the Apple Developer app, website, and Apple Developer YouTube channel. On-demand playback will be available after the conclusion of the stream.
Video Sessions and Guides
With over 100 technical sessions, WWDC25 offers developers a chance to dive deep into the latest technologies and frameworks with Apple experts. Sessions will be available on the Apple Developer app, website, and YouTube channel. Developers will also be able to access guides and documentation that can help walk them through the conference’s biggest announcements and highlights.
Group and One-on-One Labs
Apple Developer Program members and Apple Developer Enterprise Program members will have a chance to connect directly with Apple experts through online group labs and one-on-one appointments. Developers can join group labs to learn about the week’s biggest announcements in real time, or set up online appointments for guidance on topics including Apple Intelligence, design, developer tools, graphics and games, machine learning, Swift, and more. Apple engineers and designers will also be available on the Apple Developer Forums.
Swift Student Challenge
Apple is proud to support developers through the Swift Student Challenge, one of many Apple programs that seek to uplift the next generation of entrepreneurs, coders, and designers. For the second year, 50 Distinguished Winners have been recognized for outstanding submissions and will visit Apple Park for a special three-day experience.
Developers can access all WWDC content on the WWDC25 website, Apple Developer app, Apple Developer website, and Apple Developer YouTube channel.
Press Contacts
Apple Media Helpline
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)
Minister Stella Ndabeni delivers keynote address at the
Women’s Dialogue and Stakeholders Luncheon
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Universal School Choice Act. The bill allows for up to $10 billion annually in dollar-for-dollar federal tax credits for individuals and businesses that contribute to nonprofit scholarship granting organizations supporting students’ educational opportunities. It builds on previous legislation filed by Sen. Cruz, the Education Freedom Scholarships and Opportunity Act. The bill is designed to enhance universal school choice and options for every child, regardless of where they live.
Sen. Cruz said, “School choice is the civil rights issue of the 21st century. Every child in America deserves access to a quality education that meets their individual needs, regardless of race, ethnicity, income, or zip code. I remain committed to leading this fight until universal school choice has become available to every American, and I call upon my colleagues to expeditiously take up and advance this legislation.”
The Texas Public Policy Foundation supports this bill.
Mandy Drogin, Campaign Director at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, “Senator Ted Cruz has been leading the fight for educational freedom and parental rights across America for many years. His bold leadership in advancing the Universal School Choice Act is a game changer — this bill empowers every family, regardless of income or zip code, to choose the best educational path for their children. Senator Cruz understands that true education reform starts with putting parents in the driver’s seat, and his unwavering commitment to school choice is a powerful example for leaders nationwide.”
Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Reps. Burgess Owens (R-Utah-4) and Byron Donalds (R-Fla.-19).
Rep. Owens said, “Every child, not just the lucky few in the right zip code, deserves access to a world-class education that meets their unique needs. The Universal School Choice Act is an expanded opportunity for all Americans to invest directly in the future of our children. This bill empowers parents to choose the educational environment that best suits their child’s needs and abilities. It delivers a robust wish list to those who believe in parental choice. I’m grateful to Senator Cruz for his partnership.”
Rep. Donalds said, “Education is one of the fundamental building blocks for the path to success. For too long, Americans of all backgrounds have been the victim of an archaic, ineffective, and unproductive public school system. It is well passed time break up the public school monopoly, open up competition amongst schools and let American families take control of their children’s educational destiny. I’m proud to work with Senator Cruz and Congressman Owens on brining universal school choice and educational freedom to American families everywhere.”
Read the full text of the bill here.
BACKGROUND:
Senator Cruz has been the leading voice in the Senate on school choice and for parental rights in education.
Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law the Student Opportunity Amendment as part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This amendment expanded 529 College Savings Plans to include K-12 elementary and secondary school tuition for public, private, and religious schools. It was at the time and remains the most far-reaching federal school choice legislation ever passed.
Sen. Cruz filed the Education Freedom Scholarships and Opportunity Act in 2019, 2021 and 2023. The bill would create a federal tax credit for taxpayers who donate to scholarship organizations supporting post-secondary workforce education, including trade schools and apprenticeship programs, and K-12 education. This bill focuses on making quality schooling and workforce education more affordable than ever for all Americans.
Sen. Cruz introduced the END CRT Act in 2021 and demanded the DOJ not interfere with local school board meetings or threaten the use of federal law enforcement to deter parents’ free speech.
Sen. Cruz also led the fight to fully reopen schools in 2021 and introduced the Catch Up Our Kids Act, legislation to combat K-12 learning loss.
Sen. Cruz has led this effort to provide and expand education options available to all students.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) today condemned Republican-led efforts to roll back key provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) as part of their proposed budget reconciliation bill to cut taxes for the wealthiest Americans. The senators warned that the GOP’s plan would jeopardize thousands of clean energy jobs, threaten billions in private investment, and raise energy costs for families across the Commonwealth.
“The Inflation Reduction Act has already delivered significant clean energy investments to Virginia, supporting more than 20,000 jobs and positioning our Commonwealth as a leader in the clean energy economy,” said Warner and Kaine. “Rolling back these investments would not only endanger these jobs but also hinder our progress toward a more sustainable and affordable energy future. We must protect the investments that are creating jobs and lowering costs for Virginians. The Republican plan puts our economic future at risk.”
According to anew report from the Joint Economic Committee, since the Inflation Reduction Act passed, 21,642 new Virginia jobs have been announced at manufacturing, utility electricity, and industrial facilities that can receive tax cuts through the law. These announced may now be in jeopardy because of uncertainty around President Trump and congressional Republicans’ plans to rollback energy tax cuts in the Inflation Reduction Act.
The report also includes new calculations finding that a typical Virginia household can save between $510 and $1,190 on energy costs annually through the tax cuts for home and appliance upgrades supported by the Inflation Reduction Act.
Read the full Joint Economic Committee report here.
Warner and Kaine have been sounding the alarm about the effects of the GOP plan on Virginia if Republicans in Congress continue to insist on gutting vital programs in order to pay for tax breaks for the richest Americans. Last week, they noted that more than 262,000 Virginians are expected to lose their health insurance under the cuts being proposed by President Trump and Republicans in Congress.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
The Senate unanimously approved U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Michael Bennet’s (D-Colo.), bipartisan resolution designating May 29th as ‘Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day.’“Daily uncertainties and extreme stress lead to higher levels of anxiety and depression among Nebraska’s agricultural producers and workforce. Our resolution recognizes these unique challenges and supports the farmers, ranchers, and workers who perform the essential work of producing high-quality food, fuel, and fiber,” said Fischer.“From severe drought to increased costs, unprecedented challenges are taking a toll on the mental health of Colorado’s farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers. I’m grateful to stand with Senator Fischer and my Senate colleagues to raise awareness about our country’s mental health crisis and work together to expand access to care for communities across the country,” said Bennet.In addition to Fischer and Bennet, the resolution is cosponsored by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.). The full text of the resolution can be found here.
Click
here to learn about national resources available for those in need of assistance.Click here to learn about Nebraska resources available for those in need of assistance.
National Stakeholder Support:
Agricultural Retailers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, Farm Credit Services of America, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Union, National Pork Producers Council, and National Rural Health Association.Click here to view statements of support from national stakeholders.
Nebraska Stakeholder Support:
Nebraska Agri-Business Association, Nebraska Cattlemen, Nebraska Cooperative Council, Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Nebraska Farmers Union, Nebraska Pork Producers Association, Nebraska Rural Health Association, Nebraska Soybean Association, and Nebraska Wheat Board.
Click here to view statements of support from Nebraska stakeholders.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
Published: 05.20.2025
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped introduce the Safeguarding Transit Operations to Prohibit (STOP) China Act, which would protect domestic transit operations and help level the playing field for American manufacturers, suppliers, and workers by preventing any federal funds from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) from being awarded to grantees for the purchase of transit buses or rail cars made by Chinese-controlled companies. The bill would help ensure that American taxpayer dollars are invested in American manufacturers, like those in Michigan, not China.
“China is actively working to undermine American workers and our economic success, particularly in the transportation industry, by flooding global markets with artificially cheap vehicles, from electric vehicles to buses,” said Senator Peters. “These vehicles could also pose a serious national security threat. This bipartisan bill would address these concerns and help level the playing field for Michigan manufacturers, suppliers, and workers as we continue to lead the world in mobility innovation by preventing taxpayer dollars from being used to support companies owned and operated by the Chinese Communist Party.”
The Stop China Act would prohibit any federal funds from being awarded to grantees for the purchase of Chinese government transit buses or rail cars. It seeks to close loopholes in the previously enacted Transportation Infrastructure Vehicle Security Act that have allowed Chinese entities to continue competing for U.S. Government funds. It also requires the United States Trade Representative (USTR), in consultation with the U.S. Attorney General, to produce a list of prohibited entities headquartered or affiliated with China.
The legislation is endorsed by the Alliance for American Manufacturing, Steel Manufacturers Association, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, United Steelworkers, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, and Transport Workers Union of America.
Peters has made strengthening domestic manufacturing and supply chains a top priority. Peters helped author and pass into law the CHIPS and Science Act to boost U.S. manufacturing of semiconductor chips, strengthen critical domestic supply chains, and create good-paying American jobs. The CHIPS and Science Act additionally authorized increased funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, which has been a priority for Peters. Peters additionally supported and helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which will strengthen domestic manufacturing, onshore our supply chains, combat the climate crisis, and create millions of American jobs.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Click HERE to watch and HERE to download.
Washington, D.C. – At a hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, questioned HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on the proposed elimination of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
During the Q&A, Secretary Kennedy committed to funding LIHEAP if appropriated by Congress for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026.
At the urging of Senator Collins, HHS released more than $400 million in FY 2025 funding for LIHEAP earlier this month. Maine has received $41.6 million in FY 2025 LIHEAP funding.
Q&A with Secretary Kennedy:
Senator Collins:
The LIHEAP program, which we’ve talked about, is absolutely vital for thousands of older Mainers and low-income families. It helps them avoid the constant worry of having to choose between keeping warm, buying essential foods and medications, and other basic necessities.
Now, I was pleased to see the release of the rest of the Fiscal Year 2025 funds, but the Administration’s new budget seeks to eliminate what is truly a critical program.
Will you work with this Committee in trying to restore LIHEAP so that we can avoid, literally, seniors and low-income families not being able to keep warm in the winter?
Secretary Kennedy:
Yeah, absolutely, and I’m from New England myself. My brother, for 40 years, has run Citizens Energy, which provides low-cost home heating oil to families in New England. And so many people have come to me over the years and said to me, thank you, your brother saved my life because I didn’t have to choose between food and heat.
I was on the Navajo reservation three weeks ago, and Navajo President Buu Nygren said to me, at this point, if we cut LIHEAP, Navajo will die from it. So, I understand the critical historical importance of this program.
President Trump’s rationale and OMB’s rationale is that President Trump’s energy policies are going to lower the cost of energy so that everybody will get lower cost heating oil, and in that case, this program would simply be another subsidy to the fossil fuel industry.
If that doesn’t happen, and Congress chooses to appropriate the money, I, of course, will spend it. I’ve already directed the spending of $400 million in this year’s budget. Do that, and I will work with you to make sure that those families do not suffer in that way.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced the bipartisan Protecting Older Workers from Age Discrimination Act (POWADA) to level the playing field for older workers and protect Americans from age discrimination in the workplace.
“Every Wisconsin worker deserves to feel respected and protected in the workplace. We need to ensure this is true for older workers, so they have equal footing and are treated with the dignity they deserve,” said Senator Baldwin.
“Americans of all ages can offer valuable contributions to our society and economy, including older Americans. They deserve to be protected from workplace discrimination like other Americans. The Supreme Court’s decision involving Iowan Jack Gross impacted employment discrimination litigation across the nation, sending a wrong message to employers that age discrimination is okay. It’s long past time for us to clarify the intent of Congress so Americans don’t face job discrimination due to age,” said Senator Grassley.
In 2009, the Supreme Court ruled in Gross v. FBL Financial Services that workers who face age discrimination must meet a higher burden of proof than workers who face discrimination based on other characteristics like race, sex, national origin or religion.
The court ruled that, whereas for decades a worker needed to prove only that discrimination was a factor in an adverse employment decision to make an age discrimination claim, now a worker needs to prove it was the deciding factor in that decision. This significantly weakened the protections of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) and sent a clear signal to employers: some age discrimination is perfectly fine.
A survey conducted by AARP in 2018 found that more than three in five workers ages 45 and above reported seeing or experiencing age discrimination in the workplace. The survey also found that three quarters of these workers cited age discrimination as a reason for their lack of confidence in being able to find a new job.
POWADA would amend the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the retaliation provision in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to level the playing field for older workers. The bill would restore the pre-Gross standard, recognizing once again the legitimacy of so-called “mixed-motive” claims in which discrimination is a, if not the deciding, factor. It would also reaffirm that workers may use any type of admissible evidence to prove their claims.
The legislation is also co-sponsored by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and was introduced in the U.S. House today by Representatives Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA-03), Glenn Grothman (R-WI-06), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Alma Adams (D-NC-12), and Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02). This legislation is supported by National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP), Elder Justice Coalition, AARP, Alliance for Retired Americans, The National Council on Aging, National Partnership for Women & Families, USAging, National Employment Law Project, and National Women’s Law Center.
“AARP, which advocates for the more than 100 million Americans age 50 and older, is pleased to endorse the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act,” said Bill Sweeney, AARP Senior Vice President of Government Affairs. “Older workers deserve a fair shot and our economy needs them. This bill helps level the playing field for older workers and restores their ability to fight back against age discrimination in the workplace.”
“No one should face discrimination in the workplace, including older workers. In particular, older women are already at an economic disadvantage due to decades of facing gender-based discrimination and harassment, the gender wage gap, and a lack of family supportive policies – and age discrimination can be the final blow to their economic security as they look toward retirement. The National Partnership commends the bipartisan POWADA bill sponsors for taking this critical step to ensure that older workers have the same legal rights against discrimination as everyone else,” said Sharita Gruberg, Vice President for Economic Justice at National Partnership for Women & Families.
A one-pager on this bill is available here. Full text of this legislation is available here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
May 20, 2025
Yesterday, President of CBS News, Subsidiary of Paramount, Departed Amid Tensions with Trump and Paramount Global Chair Shari Redstone
“If Paramount officials make these concessions in a quid pro quo arrangement to influence President Trump or other Administration officials, they may be breaking the law.”
Text of Letter (PDF)
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) wrote to Shari Redstone, Chair of Paramount Global (Paramount), with concerns regarding whether Paramount may be engaging in potentially illegal conduct involving the Trump Administration in exchange for approval of its megamerger with Skydance Media (Skydance).
In October 2024, President Trump, in his capacity as a private citizen, sued Paramount subsidiary CBS over alleged “partisan and unlawful acts of election and voter interference.” In March 2025, CBS filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, calling the suit “an affront to the First Amendment and … without basis in law or fact.” Now, Paramount appears to be walking back its commitments to defend CBS’s First Amendment rights. Paramount is reportedly in talks to settle the lawsuit, with President Trump potentially profiting from the settlement.
The senators are pushing Paramount to answer why the company has suddenly changed its tune with respect to the lawsuit, concerned that it may be because Paramount and Skydance’s agreement to merge for $8 billion hinges on the Trump Administration’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which has an opportunity to block it.
“Paramount appears to be attempting to appease the Administration in order to secure merger approval,” wrote the senators.
In addition to reportedly attempting to settle the suit, Paramount also appears to have begun meddling with CBS’s content, “presumably in order to screen it for content that could anger the Trump Administration.”
A 60 Minutes correspondent told viewers, “Our parent company Paramount is trying to complete a merger. The Trump Administration must approve it. Paramount began to supervise our content in new ways.” This has prompted CBS resignations, including by the CBS News President, Wendy McMahon, who resigned just yesterday.
“If Paramount officials make these concessions in a quid pro quo arrangement to influence President Trump or other Administration officials, they may be breaking the law,” wrote the senators.
Under the federal bribery statute, it is illegal to corruptly give anything of value to public officials to influence an official act. To determine whether Paramount is acting in accordance with anti-bribery laws, the senators are requesting answers from the company.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led a introduced the Business Opportunity Protection (BOP) Act. This legislation would repealunnecessary and unused Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) discretionary authorities granted by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06), is the lead of BOP’s companion legislation in the House.
“15 years is more than enough time for the SEC to evaluate the necessity of unused authorities,” said Ricketts. “But just because they haven’t been used does not mean they should remain on the books.”
Senator Ricketts emphasized the danger of activist regulators weaponizing unused Dodd-Frankdiscretionary authorities to advance aggressive and sweeping ideological mandates on investors and businesses. Ricketts also highlighted the cost savings for businesses that would no longer need to plan for uncertain compliance requirements.
“Unused discretionary authorities at the SEC create a regulatory overhang—businesses are forced to plan for rules and compliance burdens that could appear overnight,” continued Ricketts. “It’s time to restore balance, accountability, and certainty to the SEC and take unused discretionary authorities off the books for good.”
“Dodd-Frank slowed our recovery from the 2008 recession and will go down as one of the biggest power grabs by federal regulators in history,” said Congressman Andy Barr, Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Financial Institutions. “More than 15 years later, I’m teaming up with Senator Ricketts to prevent the SEC from imposing any more regulations under Dodd-Frank that haven’t already been implemented.”
Bill text can be found here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN)
Washington, DC – Rep. Frank J. Mrvan (D-IN-01) and Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) recently reintroduced H.R.3359, the Veterans’ Security and Pay Transparency Act.
The purpose of this legislation is to improve recruitment and retention of U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Police Officers. Specifically, the Veterans’ Security and Pay Transparency Act would require the VA Secretary to submit an annual report to Congress on salaries, recruitment bonuses, and other compensation of all VA Police Officers. This information will be utilized to conduct Congressional oversight and determine how VA can improve recruitment and retention of police officers to protect veterans and VA personnel.
Congressman Mrvan stated, “I am proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation with Chairwoman Kiggans to support law enforcement personnel at the VA. I look forward to working with all of my colleagues to hold the VA accountable and improve recruitment and retention of VA Police Officers as it works to keep our nation’s veterans and VA facilities across the country safe and secure.”
Congresswoman Kiggans stated, “VA Police Officers play a vital role in protecting the veterans who rely on VA facilities for care and the staff who serve them. This bipartisan bill provides much-needed transparency into VA recruitment and compensation for these officers to ensure they have the support needed to do their jobs safely and effectively. Strengthening recruitment and retention of qualified VA Police is essential to keeping our veterans safe.”
American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) National Veterans Affairs Council President Alma Lee stated, “AFGE applauds Representative Mrvan and Chairwoman Kiggans for introducing the Veterans’ Security and Pay Transparency Act. AFGE is proud to represent VA Police Officers, 90 percent of whom are veterans themselves, in VA facilities throughout the nation. The passage of this legislation will provide valuable oversight of the compensation of the VA police force, and help the VA and Congress improve the recruitment and retention of dedicated VA Police Officers who protect our nation’s veterans and VA employees every day.”
The full bill text of the Veterans’ Security and Pay Transparency Act is available here.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04)
Washington, DC — Rep. Pat Fallon (TX-04) led a letter yesterday to Energy Secretary Chris Wright requesting a briefing by the Department of Energy on the state of US grid resiliency both from an energy use and national security perspective.
In an exclusive with the Washington Reporter, Rep. Fallon commented:
“The U.S. needs prioritize dependable sources of energy like natural gas, oil, and coal to power our nation and protect our national security.”
“At the same time, the longer we leave our electrical grid vulnerable, the longer we invite cyberattacks from adversaries like China or Russia, risking widespread outages that endanger American lives,” Rep. Fallon continued. “We must ensure we have planned for future threats to our grid to safeguard America’s future.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Burlison (R-Missouri 7th District)
WASHINGTON—Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs Chairman Eric Burlison (R-Mo.) delivered opening remarks at today’s hearing on “Mandates, Meddling, and Mismanagement: The IRA’s Threat to Energy and Medicine.” In his remarks, Subcommittee Chairman Burlison highlighted how the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) increased energy subsidies that cost taxpayers billions, funneled money into the Democrats’ radical energy agenda, and stifled free market competition that would have lowered energy prices. At today’s hearing, the panel will hear from experts on how the IRA failed to curb inflation and created corruption.
Below are Subcommittee Chairman Burlison’s remarks as prepared for delivery.
Today we are here to provide critical oversight of the policies and subsidies instituted through the Inflation Reduction Act, or the “IRA.”
Signed into law under the Biden Administration in 2022, this misleadingly-named legislation passed with zero Republican votes.
Three years later, the projected costs continue to balloon—with rounding errors in the billions—all while creating runaway subsidies and unnecessary distortions within energy and health care markets.
In January of this year, the Director of the Congressional Budget Office estimated that the IRA’s energy subsidies would increase U.S. budget deficits by $825 billion over the next ten years.
That is more than three times the initial ten-year estimate of roughly $270 billion rendered by CBO and the Joint Committee on Taxation.
How did CBO and the JCT get these numbers so wrong?
Other estimates show an even grimmer picture of the IRA’s long-term economic impacts on the federal budget.
Recent analysis by the Cato Institute shows that energy subsidies included in the IRA may cost “between $936 billion and $1.97 trillion over the next ten years, and between $2.04 trillion and $4.67 trillion by 2050.”
These are chilling estimates that extend far beyond what was previously projected.
I would like to enter this report, entitled “The Budgetary Cost of the Inflation Reduction Act’s Energy Subsidies,” from the CATO institute into the hearing record so that others may review these findings.
Without objection, so ordered.
These subsidies didn’t just happen to create distortions in energy markets: they distorted markets by design.
The IRA funnels money to so-called “clean” energy organizations that would not be able to compete on their own without these subsidies.
The Biden Administration was blatantly picking winners and losers in the economy.
The federal government slammed a fist on the economic scale to stifle free market competition that allows for the most reliable, cost-effective sources to compete on an open playing field—all in the name of unproven, hyperbolic, and extreme climate alarmism.
The kicker? These IRA subsides, coming from the party that purports to be “against the oligarchy” and fighting the billionaires, created tax loopholes that carved out eleven thousand dollars, on average, for the top 1% through tax credits, while failing to demonstrate tax savings of more than $100 for the bottom quintile of American taxpayers.
The IRA paid out to the rich, all under the guise of climate change.
There are also implications for the future of our tax code and prescription drug costs.
The IRA has already led to a more convoluted web of tax subsidies, creating additional burdens for compliance.
For health care under the IRA, the Biden Administration’s “pill penalty” will ultimately increase drug costs and federal expenditures on Medicare.
We have an opportunity to take a hard look at these provisions to carefully evaluate whether these tax credits and programs are achieving their intended results, and whether taxpayer dollars would be better spent elsewhere.
Doing so has the potential to save taxpayers over $1 trillion dollars, ease inflation, stimulate economic growth by allowing for free market competition, and make energy affordable again.
This Republican majority is committed to protecting taxpayer dollars, instituting necessary health care reforms, and stopping wasteful “Green New Deal” energy policies that are out of touch with the every-day needs of Americans.
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US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan, Ranking Member of the Joint Economic Committee, and Senator Jeanne Shaheen today highlighted new data from the Joint Economic Committee – Minority showing that an estimated 36,856 Granite Staters would lose health insurance as a result of President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ proposed cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. House Republicans are expected to call a vote on their proposal later this week.
“President Trump and Congressional Republicans are pushing forward with their plan to give billionaires and corporate special interests more tax breaks – all paid for by taking health coverage away from more than 36,000 Granite Staters and adding trillions to the national debt,” said Senators Hassan and Shaheen. “This new analysis makes clear that if this backward plan passes into law, it will be even harder for thousands of Granite Staters to afford the health care that they need.”
The Committee calculations are based on the latest numbers available, including from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office’s analysis released this month about the draft legislation put forward by Republicans. The new Committee fact sheet is available here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (D-VA) today condemned Republican-led efforts to roll back key provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) as part of their proposed budget reconciliation bill to cut taxes for the wealthiest Americans. The senators warned that the GOP’s plan would jeopardize thousands of clean energy jobs, threaten billions in private investment, and raise energy costs for families across the Commonwealth.
“The Inflation Reduction Act has already delivered significant clean energy investments to Virginia, supporting more than 20,000 jobs and positioning our Commonwealth as a leader in the clean energy economy,” said Sens. Warner and Kaine. “Rolling back these investments would not only endanger these jobs but also hinder our progress toward a more sustainable and affordable energy future. We must protect the investments that are creating jobs and lowering costs for Virginians. The Republican plan puts our economic future at risk.”
According to a new report from the Joint Economic Committee, since the Inflation Reduction Act passed, 21,642 new Virginia jobs have been announced at manufacturing, utility electricity, and industrial facilities that can receive tax cuts through the law. These announced may now be in jeopardy because of uncertainty around President Trump and congressional Republicans’ plans to rollback energy tax cuts in the Inflation Reduction Act.
The report also includes new calculations finding that a typical Virginia household can save between $510 and $1,190 on energy costs annually through the tax cuts for home and appliance upgrades supported by the Inflation Reduction Act.
Read the full Joint Economic Committee report here.
Warner and Kaine have been sounding the alarm about the effects of the GOP plan on Virginia if Republicans in Congress continue to insist on gutting vital programs in order to pay for tax breaks for the richest Americans. Last week, they noted that more than 262,000 Virginians are expected to lose their health insurance under the cuts being proposed by President Trump and Republicans in Congress.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), a member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, led a group of colleagues in introducing the Defending Our Government’s Electronic data: Bolstering Responsible Oversight & Safeguards (DOGE BROS) Act, legislation to hold Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) accountable for their continued efforts to improperly access, and retain, individuals’ personally identifiable information (PII) including names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, Social Security numbers, and other financial information.
“As unvetted and unqualified DOGE employees continue to recklessly access the sensitive personal information of millions of Americans, it’s important that we take steps to better protect this data,” Sen. Warner said. “For too long, our privacy laws have sat outdated, barely serving as a deterrent for improper handling or potential release of information. This legislation would enforce that privacy must be a priority when handling the data of the American public.”
Joining Sen. Warner in introducing the DOGE BROS Act are U.S. Sens. Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Peter Welch (D-VT).
“Elon Musk and his ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ are wreaking havoc across the government and gaining access to Americans’ sensitive information without proper authorization, which poses significant privacy and national security concerns,” Sen. Kaine said. “That’s why I’m introducing this bill to increase the penalties for violating privacy laws and help safeguard Americans’ personal information.”
“Elon Musk and his DOGE cronies have been illegally ransacking federal agencies to gain access to troves of Americans’ sensitive personal data – from Social Security numbers to medical records to bank account information. Strengthening penalties for the theft of this data will help further deter these illegal abuses and keep Americans’ private information safe,” Sen. Van Hollen said.
“The American people do not want Elon Musk knowing their Social Security numbers and sifting through their financial information. Musk and his team of wildly unqualified DOGE employees have gone too far – and we are sick of it. The Senate needs to prove we care more about those we serve than Elon Musk. Let’s immediately pass this legislation to protect the data and privacy of the American people,” Sen. Alsobrooks said.
“From day one, Elon Musk’s DOGE has taken a wrecking ball to the federal government and critical services for the American people, all while carelessly pursuing their sensitive personal data,” Sen. Luján said. “Congress must do more to protect that information and keep it out of the wrong hands. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing legislation to strengthen our privacy laws and put Americans’ privacy first.”
“Elon Musk’s so-called ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ and his DOGE agents are wreaking havoc on the federal government and the programs millions of Americans rely on. There’s no reason DOGE should gain access to Vermonters’ personal information, and I’m working with my colleagues to hold DOGE accountable and protect peoples’ privacy and data,” Sen. Welch said.
The United States has existing laws that are designed to protect personal information held by the government. However, the penalties established in these various laws have not been properly adjusted or increased to account for inflation, making them far less impactful today. The DOGE BROS Act would increase five penalties for violation of federal privacy laws to better protect the sensitive information that DOGE is accessing in their reckless purge of the federal government. Specifically, the DOGE BROS Act would increase the following existing penalties for the unauthorized release of the following information:
Copy of the bill text is available here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) joined 11 of his Senate colleagues in demanding that the Trump administration release funding for states under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This program, which was created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – landmark legislation authored and negotiated by Sen. Warner – connects families in the hardest-to-serve communities to high-speed internet and works to close the digital divide.
Virginia is expected to receive $1.4 billion in federal funding from the program. However, Virginia has been unable to finalize its broadband deployment plans after President Trump halted funding for Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act projects in January and announced that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) would be revising the guidelines for the BEAD program.
“We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program,” wrote the senators in a letter to President Trump. “This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).”
In addition to Sen. Warner, the letter was signed by U.S. Sens. Jackie Rosen (D-NV), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Angus King (I-ME).
They continued, “Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow. NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.”
Sen. Warner has long fought to expand access to broadband in Virginia. As an author and negotiator of the bipartisan infrastructure law, Sen. Warner secured $65 billion in funding to help deploy broadband and decrease costs associated with connecting to the internet nationwide.
A copy of letter is available here and text is below.
Dear President Trump:
We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).
The intent of Congress when it created and appropriated over $42 billion for the bipartisan BEAD program was to connect the hardest-to-serve Americans to high-speed internet and finally close the digital divide. Congress explicitly shaped this program to give deference to states, so they could address the unique challenges their states face reaching the goals of the program Congress mandated.
Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow. Forty-two states have begun or completed their BEAD application process. Three states have even had their applications fully approved and yet are waiting on funds to be released by your Administration. Many states have applications that are tech-neutral and dramatically more cost-effective than previous projects funded by federal broadband programs, all while fulfilling the program’s mission to bring high-speed, reliable broadband to all unserved communities in their state. The attempts by NTIA to revise the state application process at this late stage will cause further delays to the program and leave rural and tribal communities behind in an increasingly connected economy. NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.
It is imperative to follow the law, deliver on the promise of access to affordable high-speed internet, and ensure that every American, regardless of where they live, has the tools to succeed in the modern economy.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner highlighting his Education Choice for Children Act (ECCA), a bill to expand education freedom for students and empower parents to make the best decision about their child’s education. ECCA was included in President Trump’s One Big, Beautiful Bill being considered by the U.S. House of Representatives.
“Mothers and fathers should have the freedom to get their child out of a school that is not meeting their needs and into a better one. That could be a private school, charter school, homeschooling, or other options as the parent sees fit. But moms and dads may hesitate to do so because of the higher costs associated with alternative education options,” said Dr. Cassidy.
“The current education system fails too many children, making it more likely for many that they live stunted lives. Let’s give parents the power to choose the best education for their child and make their American Dream possible,” concluded Dr. Cassidy.
Read the full op-ed here or below.
Cassidy: Let’s Advance School Choice in the One Big, Beautiful Bill
Every student in America deserves a good education, no matter their family’s income or where they live, and no one can make a better choice for a child’s education than a parent.
My mother was born to a tenant farmer family. Once, she missed an entire year of school because she didn’t have shoes. Her son went to college and became a gastroenterologist and a U.S. senator. That is the power of education.
But education is not one-size-fits-all. What works for one child may not work for another. President Donald Trump understands this. He and I have been consistent champions for school choice. This is why he signed an executive order supporting educational choice and empowering parents to make decisions about their child’s education.
A child should not be trapped in a failing school. Sometimes, a child has a special need that is best addressed in one school more than another. Although I am a product of public schools, and they work for many, too many schools have terrible academic outcomes. Currently, two-thirds of U.S. public school students are unable to read proficiently in fourth grade, and 40% are essentially illiterate.
At best, illiteracy limits future opportunities. At its worst, it is a major risk factor for committing crimes and being incarcerated. These outcomes are as terrible for the individual as for society.
The American dream is about opportunity. It is about overcoming adversity. It is about aiming high and the ability to succeed. School choice matters because the difference between adversity and success often comes down to a person’s education.
Mothers and fathers should have the freedom to get their child out of a school that is not meeting their needs and into a better one. That could be a private school, charter school, homeschooling, or other options as the parent sees fit. However, mothers and fathers may hesitate to do so because of the higher costs associated with alternative education options. For example, in 2024, the average annual cost of tuition at a private high school was $15,344.
Cost should not stand in the way of a child’s bright future. That is what my Education Choice for Children Act is all about. The bill expands education freedom and opportunity for students by incentivizing individuals and businesses to fund scholarship awards for students to cover K-12 public and private education expenses. ECCA helps ensure that costs do not keep a child in the wrong school. These scholarships can be used to cover a range of education-related costs, including tuition, books, school supplies, and other educational resources.
Success does not begin in the classroom. It begins in the right classroom. By helping parents with some of the potential costs that come with choosing the education best suited for their child, ECCA empowers parents to ensure their children are set up for success.
The House Ways and Means Committee included ECCA in the tax bill to pass the president’s agenda. With Trump in the White House and a Republican Senate, the ECCA can become law.
The current education system fails too many children, making it more likely that many of them will live stunted lives. Let’s give parents the power to choose the best education for their child and make their American dream possible.
Source: Government of Canada regional news
People experiencing a mental-health or substance-use crisis in the Comox Valley now have access to more services to help them stabilize and connect to the support they need.
“This service in the Comox Valley is helping people in crisis get timely, compassionate support from those who truly understand their experience,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “By combining clinical expertise with the knowledge of people who have lived through similar challenges, this community-led approach offers a more empathetic and effective response that can make a real difference in someone’s path to recovery.”
Crisis Response, Community-Led (CRCL, pronounced “circle”), formerly known as Peer Assisted Care Teams, is a mobile, community-led crisis service that serves people 13 and older experiencing a mental-health or substance-use crisis, which might include thoughts of suicide or self-harm, feelings of grief, panic or anxiety, and/or acting or feeling in ways that are distressing.
“In the Comox Valley, we have witnessed CRCL represent a transformative approach to mental-health crisis response, centred around compassion and lived experience,” said Sarah Delaney-Spindler, senior director, AVI Health and Community Services. “By meeting individuals where they are, CRCL has provided immediate, person-centred support that fosters healing and connection within our communities. We have seen in action the impacts of CRCL and its low-barrier, compassionate approach connecting individuals in community with resources and support.”
A person in crisis may contact CRCL for support directly, or friends, family members or bystanders may reach out if concerned about the well-being of someone else. The team is made up of responders with a combination of mental-health professionals and people with lived experience who are trained in providing trauma-informed, culturally safe crisis support.
“We’ve lost too many of our people to trauma, addiction and a system that wasn’t built for us,” said Nicole Rempel, Elected Chief Councillor, K’ómoks First Nation. “Our communities are grieving and asking for help, but what we’re met with is silence, delay or criminalization. The CRCL program is a step toward something different: a trauma-informed, culturally safe approach that recognizes the strength and wisdom already in our communities. We are not just piloting a program, we are decolonizing a system that has failed our people. This is how we reclaim care: by building something our communities can trust, and that other Nations can build upon too. This is not just a pilot, it’s a path forward.”
The CRCL team helps de-escalate the situation, ensures and plans for the safety of the person in crisis, and connects them to services to support their long-term needs. This service also helps free up policing resources to focus on crime and prevents demand on hospital emergency departments by supporting people in the community.
The Comox Valley CRCL is operated by AVI Health and Community Services in partnership with K’ómoks First Nation, with oversight and support from the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division. The service soft-launched in October 2024, focusing on providing care to the K’ómoks First Nation. In December 2024, it expanded to serve people in Cumberland, Courtenay and Comox. Since the service launched, more than 100 people have been supported.
In addition to the Comox Valley service, there are four CRCLs in operation in Victoria, North and West Vancouver, New Westminster and Prince George.
Expanding CRCL is part of the Province’s Safer Communities Action Plan and supports the plan’s goal of creating safe, healthy communities for everyone. Enhancing supports for people living with mental-health and addiction challenges is an integral part of government’s work to build a full continuum of mental-health and substance-use care that works for everyone.
Quotes:
Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for mental health and addictions –
“Everyone deserves to feel supported and safe during a mental-health or substance-use crisis. CRCL offers a person-centred approach that meets people where they are, providing care that is rooted in compassion, understanding and community. This model helps reduce stigma and ensures people get the help they need, when they need it most.”
Jonny Morris, CEO, Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division –
“By providing a mental-health response to a mental-health crisis, CRCL teams are changing and saving lives in the communities they serve. Collectively, teams have responded to more than 10,000 calls since January 2023, resolving almost 99% of calls without the need for police involvement. We are grateful to the Province of B.C. and CRCL teams for helping to create this network of support.”
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
To learn more about CRCL, visit: https://crcl.ca/
To learn more about mental-health and substance-use supports in B.C., visit: https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/
Source: US State of Colorado
COLORADO SPRINGS – Today, Governor Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced that Okika Devices, a producer of chips and software that enable custom and cutting-edge analog solutions and computing, has selected Colorado Springs for its new headquarters and research and development (R&D) center.
“We are thrilled to welcome Okika Devices to Colorado, the best place to live and do business. Okika will bring 20 new, good-paying jobs to Colorado Springs while advancing our state’s growing contributions to the semiconductor industry,” said Governor Polis.
In Colorado, Okika joins a semiconductor industry poised for growth. The Semiconductor Industry Association places Colorado in the top 10 states with the resources and business ecosystem to support a strong semiconductor industry. In addition to major fabrication facilities, Colorado businesses support the entire value chain from chip design and materials to fabrication and packaging.
Okika develops Field Programmable Analog Array (FPAA) integrated circuit products to deliver state-of-the-art analog integrated circuit solutions that address complex challenges from sensor processing to machine learning. In Colorado Springs, the company recognized an opportunity to connect to a strong workforce, build on local relationships established through previous industry experience, and establish new partnerships within the local ecosystem.
The company expects to create 20 net new jobs at an average annual wage of $104,250, which is 160% of the average annual wage in El Paso County. Hiring is underway for applications and quality engineers, sales, and procurement.
“Relocating Okika’s headquarters to Colorado Springs marks an exciting new chapter for our company. The business-friendly environment, along with the unwavering support from the city, county, and state—who truly bent over backwards to make this transition seamless—made our decision an easy one. Colorado Springs offers a rich pool of talented and committed professionals, and we’re proud to join a community known for innovation and excellence. Many of our senior executives, formerly of Ramtron, are thrilled to return and help launch Okika in a place that feels like home. We are looking forward to being back,” said William Staunton, Chairman and CEO of Okika.
“Okika Device’s dedication to cutting-edge analog solutions and commitment to innovation will undoubtedly strengthen and advance our state’s growing semiconductor ecosystem, further solidifying Colorado’s position as a leader in the advanced industries, technology and strategic economic development,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman.
The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved up to $398,756 in a performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit for the company over an eight-year period. These incentives are contingent upon Okika Devices, referred to as Project Kokua throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting net new job creation and salary requirements.
Colorado Springs City Council approved $66,500 over a four-year period in performance-based incentives. The sales and use tax rebates apply to the purchases of construction materials, equipment, machinery, furniture, and fixtures. The City’s Economic Development Department also offered to support the company through its Rapid Response Program, as well as talent and workforce development support.
“Okika’s decision to establish its headquarters in Colorado Springs shows the confidence investors have in our region and speaks to Colorado Springs’ position as a dynamic hub for advanced manufacturing and semiconductor technology,” said Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President & CEO of Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC. This expansion will enhance our region’s capabilities in the analog integrated circuit market and strengthen our semiconductor supply chain, making Colorado Springs an ideal location for manufacturing businesses.”
“We are honored to welcome Okika Devices to Colorado Springs,” said Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “Their investment brings high-quality jobs, cutting-edge innovation, and strengthens our role in advancing technologies critical to national security. Choosing to expand in Olympic City USA speaks volumes about our city’s growing reputation as a hub for skilled workforce, business-friendly environment, and as a premier destination for tech companies looking to grow and thrive.”
“We are excited to welcome this innovative semiconductor company to the Pikes Peak region,” said Commissioner Carrie Geitner, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “Their expansion not only positions our region at the forefront of advanced technology but also brings high-quality jobs and new opportunities for our local workforce. El Paso County offers a supportive, business-friendly environment that enables companies like this to grow and thrive. We look forward to the positive impact they will have on our community and economy for years to come.”
El Paso County is the administrator for the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone (EZ), which offers state income tax credits to encourage business investment and job creation in economically distressed areas. Through this state program, Okika Devices may be eligible for up to $402,532.50 in EZ incentives, contingent upon final site selection within a designated Enterprise Zone and compliance with all program requirements.
In addition to Colorado, Okika Devices considered California and Arizona for expansion. Previously headquartered in California, the company has six employees, one of whom is in Colorado.
About Okika
Okika Devices Corporation (Okika) is an analog integrated circuit products manufacturing company committed to advancing and delivering transformative, analog processing solutions. By tackling the most complex analog challenges, Okika aims to unlock new frontiers for sensor processing, machine learning, control system and power management applications. For more information visit okikadevices.com.
About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade
The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.
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Source: NATO
On Tuesday (20 May 2025), NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte attended the Foreign Affairs Council with EU Defence Ministers. He highlighted the importance of closer NATO-EU relations, in light of the threats from Russia, China’s military build-up, and terrorism.
Mr Rutte underlined the need to ramp up defence spending and production, and “to make sure that Ukraine has what it needs to bring this war to a lasting and durable end.”
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
WISeKey International Holding Ltd Announces Agenda Items to be Approved by Shareholders at its 2025 Annual General Meeting Scheduled for June 19, 2025
Zug, Switzerland, May 20, 2025 – Ad-Hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 of SIX Listing Rules – WISeKey International Holding Ltd. (“WISeKey” or the “Company”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity and IoT company, announced today that the Board of Directors has submitted its proposals for shareholder approval at the 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (“AGM“). The 2025 AGM will be held at 2:00 p.m. CEST on Thursday, June 19, 2025 at the offices of Homburger AG, Prime Tower, Hardstrasse 201, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland.
Key items that the Board of Directors recommends shareholders to approve include, among other things:
Shareholders may attend the AGM in person at the venue. Shareholders may also exercise their voting rights by giving electronic or written voting instructions to the independent voting rights representative, as further described in the Company’s invitation to the 2025 AGM published on the date of this press release, or by giving proxy to a representative.
About WISeKey
WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.
Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.
Disclaimer
This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.
Press and investor contacts:
| WISeKey International Holding Ltd Company Contact: Carlos Moreira Chairman & CEO Tel: +41 22 594 3000 info@wisekey.com |
WISeKey Investor Relations (US) Contact: Lena Cati The Equity Group Inc. Tel: +1 212 836-9611 lcati@theequitygroup.com |
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
TAIPEI, Taiwan, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At COMPUTEX TAIPEI 2025, TRYX, a leading innovator in high-performance PC hardware, is set to redefine the future of computing with its latest product lineup (Booth: Nangang Exhibition Centre Hall 1, 4F, N1205). Showcasing cutting-edge products spanning cooling solutions, chassis designs, lighting systems, and customization tools, TRYX continues to push boundaries with its user-driven engineering philosophy.
Next-Gen Cooling & Visual Excellence
A Vision for the Future
2025 marks TRYX’s boldest leap yet—merging hardware with artistry, from 3D displays to silent magnetic fans, every product is designed to inspire creators and gamers alike.”
Visit TRYX’s booth for live demos of KANALI’s real-time content tools and exclusive giveaways. Explore more at or follow **@TRYXGlobal**.
About TRYX
Founded in 2023, TRYX is headquartered in Shanghai, specializing in performance-driven PC hardware. With a presence in global market, the brand lives by its motto: “Empowering Possibilities”
Media Contact:
Lucius Liu
TRYX Global Marketing
Email: lucius_liu@tryxzone.com
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cfd44846-6528-4074-b76c-2db57d568236
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/006d7df4-c33b-4390-9c5d-3bcfc437e963
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/764982ce-a982-4518-b99c-b0a37d4520b8
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/87fb91f6-ac8b-44c2-ae68-7eabb54cc830
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/508f975e-bdc6-46b3-8b1c-8146534eb52f
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d827edb1-f553-4f99-9aae-206f97c8a5c4
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/09ea0938-1c19-4105-8b5e-c8e54cbe9a7d
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ba871aff-df6a-4d46-8004-0d3bf6731b99
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) (video statements)
FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge W. Mike Herrington delivers a message in honor of Police Week 2025.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) released a statement in response to the Trump Department of Justice (DOJ) bringing charges against Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) following her oversight visit to Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark, New Jersey where ICE agents put their hands on duly elected officials.
In a statement, Rep. Frost says:
“Donald Trump and his allies love to cry ‘weaponization’ when it suits them — but the moment they get the chance, they turn around and have the DOJ file baseless charges against a duly elected Member of Congress for simply carrying out her constitutional duties.”
“The only thing Congresswoman LaMonica McIver is guilty of is standing up to Trump’s illegal actions and fighting back against the Administration’s cruel abuses of immigrants. Looks like it’s easier to charge and arrest a Black woman doing her job than the literal criminals working for Donald Trump.”
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Source: City of Birmingham
Birmingham City Council is proud to announce that Councillor Zafar Iqbal has officially taken office as the new Lord Mayor of Birmingham.
Councillor Iqbal brings with him over five decades of dedication to the city – a journey that began when he arrived in Birmingham as a young child from the small village of Boha, Chakswari in Mirpur, Azad Kashmir. Since then, Birmingham has been the place where he built a life, raised a family, and served his community with compassion and determination.
His inspiring personal story, from learning English as a newcomer to the UK while overcoming the challenges of acute dyslexia, to eventually earning qualifications in management and health and social care, is a testament to his resilience and commitment to lifelong learning.
In his professional life, Councillor Iqbal has worked across a range of sectors – from labouring and factory work to delivering meals on wheels and supporting people with visual impairments. His enduring commitment to public service was further recognised in 2009 when he was awarded an MBE by the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for services to education.
Councillor Iqbal was elected to Birmingham City Council in 2012 and has since played an active role in the Authority, chairing key scrutiny committees and contributing to the West Midlands Fire & Rescue Authority.
Beyond his civic duties, Councillor Iqbal has been a passionate fundraiser and community champion, undertaking formidable challenges such as walking the Great Wall of China and completing the Inca Trail to raise funds for vital causes.
Speaking on his appointment, the new Lord Mayor Councillor Zafar Iqbal said:
“It is the greatest honour of my life to serve as Lord Mayor of Birmingham – a city that welcomed me, shaped me, and gave me every opportunity to grow. I hope my journey can inspire others to believe in themselves and in the power of perseverance, education, and community. Birmingham is a city of opportunity, compassion, and strength, and I look forward to promoting everything that makes it truly exceptional.”
Councillor Iqbal, a proud supporter of Birmingham City Football Club, celebrates 45 years of marriage this year with his wife and Lady Mayoress, Farooq Akhtar. They are proud parents and grandparents, and family remains at the heart of his values.
As Lord Mayor, Councillor Iqbal will serve as the First Citizen of Birmingham, representing the city in his ambassadorial role at civic and ceremonial events both at home and abroad, and championing charitable and community causes across all of Birmingham’s diverse neighbourhoods.
Everyone deserves to live their lives in safety, free from fear and violence. Gender-based violence is a crime that is happening every day, in every community, and it is everyone’s responsibility to end it. As part of the province’s comprehensive made-in-Alberta strategy to address all forms of gender-based violence, Alberta’s government invests more than $188 million annually in programs and services designed to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.
“For those facing abuse, know that you are not alone and that help is available 24-7 through Alberta Supports. Our government continues to invest in these critical programs to ensure that survivors of gender-based violence have the resources they need to find safety and stability as they work to rebuild their lives and heal.”
Often, survivors of gender-based violence who are living in an abusive situation may not have the resource to leave, or if they’ve already left, they may not have the means to start over. To help those experiencing abuse get to safety and rebuild their lives, Alberta’s government provides emergency funding through the Escaping Abuse Benefit. The benefit provides supports such as transportation to a safe place and helps cover expenses for basic needs like food, clothing and shelter. The benefit also can help cover the costs of telephone calls and transportation to access counselling or legal advice, and help provide emergency access to items not available through shelters, like prescription drugs, extended health coverage, childcare, and dental and eye care services.
“With our launch of Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence, our government is taking decisive, coordinated action to support survivors and prevent abuse in all its forms. We are backing our commitment with meaningful investments in supports that give survivors the safety, stability and resources they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”
In addition, the province is investing $8.5 million this year, an increase of $2.3 million, into the Housing Benefit for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence. This housing benefit helps survivors find a safe, stable home while they work to rebuild their lives by helping pay for housing expenses, such as down payments, rent, utilities and mortgage payments. Each survivor can receive up to $7,200 per year through flexible monthly payments. The Housing Benefit for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence is expected to support more than 1,100 Albertans escaping abuse over the next year.
“Ending gender-based violence takes action, investment and a long-term vision. Investments like this are a crucial and commendable step forward to ensuring safety and dignity for all by supporting survivors with compassion.”
Alberta’s government recently launched Building on our Strengths: Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence, which is a bold, provincewide plan to address all forms of gender-based violence. As the most comprehensive strategy of its kind in Canada, Alberta’s strategy outlines more than 100 concrete initiatives to ensure efforts across government and community partners are coordinated so Alberta can put an end to gender-based violence. Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence complements and enhances existing initiatives to address the root causes of gender-based violence and prevent it before it occurs.
“Survivors of gender-based violence deserve more than safety – they deserve dignity, support and the opportunity to thrive. These investments are a critical step forward, offering real, tangible help to those rebuilding their lives after abuse. We commend the government’s commitment to long-term, survivor-centered solutions that recognize the complexity of gender-based violence and the importance of coordinated community response.”
Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.
Source: Securities and Exchange Commission
Good morning. Thank you to PLI for once again hosting this event and to the studio audience, both live and virtual, who has joined us today. In preparing these remarks and knowing I was lucky enough to take the stage between all of you and your lunch break, I thought, how do I pack in all the ways our Office seeks to support small businesses in a few short minutes before that mental lunch bell rings? And just like that, I found myself in my head somewhere between the Final Jeopardy[1] countdown music and those shopping shows where contestants race around with a grocery cart. Embracing that theme, welcome to my trip down “game show” memory lane to revisit some famous, and possibly not so famous, game shows. Our journey will highlight some of what our Office does, and what is happening with capital formation in the small business ecosystem. However, before I test your game show acumen, I need to remind all of you that I am speaking in my official capacity as the Director of the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, and my remarks do not necessarily reflect the views of the Commission, the Commissioners, or other members of the Commission Staff.
For those of you who were here last year, you might remember I had only been the Host, oh I mean the Director, of the Small Business Advocacy Office for 79 days. Today, while my duration as Director has lengthened in tenure to 16 months, one thing from those initial days still holds absolutely true — this Office is made up of an incredible bunch of dedicated individuals who are passionate about improving small business capital formation and serving as a voice for small businesses and their investors. While we may have barely enough folks to field a couple of “Family Feud”[2] teams, this small team continues to amaze me on a daily basis with their accomplishments and commitment to the Office’s mission. Just looking at the current fiscal year, since October 2024 the Office has engaged in 34 outreach events and dozens of policy meetings, produced the 2024 Annual Report, created new educational resources and content, reviewed dozens of proposed bills and amendments related to small business capital formation, and organized and hosted the 44th Annual SEC Small Business Forum. And that’s on top of our daily collaboration with our SEC colleagues on matters of importance to small businesses and their investors. I am proud to be a part of this hard-working team and for the opportunity to serve alongside them as we seek ways to continue to support and advocate for the small business community. And now, I’m pleased to present the Small Business Advocacy Office.
Jeopardy
First up: Let’s play a little Jeopardy. Actually, let’s jump straight to some Double Jeopardy questions, so I don’t spill all the way into the break.
I’ll start with “Little Known Gems at the SEC” for $1,200. Congress created this Office with the longest name in the agency to advance the interests of small businesses and their investors at the Commission and in the capital markets. You got it! What is the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation? Many of the folks that our Office advocates for may not have gotten that one, and we are on a mission to change that by getting the word out about who we are and what we do for small businesses and their investors. Small businesses cut a wide swath for this Office — from a start-up to a small public company. We are tasked with assisting in resolving problems, identifying areas where small businesses and their investors would benefit from changes in regulations, identifying problems that small businesses encounter with securing capital, analyzing the impact of proposed rules and legislation, and engaging in outreach on capital formation issues.[3]
How do we go about fulfilling these vital functions? We engage with the community — we meet, talk, and listen to small business founders, investors, and those parties that support them. And what do we do with all of that feedback that we learn and gather? It informs our advocacy on behalf of small businesses and their investors so we can amplify their voices. The questions that we get from the small business community often serve as indicators of areas where that community could benefit from additional clarity, and where we can assist by working with our colleagues to help bring about solutions and by creating educational resources on those topics. In addition, we rely on what we hear from our stakeholders when we make the policy recommendations that we include in our Annual Report. The Annual Report is a culminating event for our Office — we spend the year reviewing data and studies to report on what’s happening with small business capital formation and to ensure that the policy recommendations are data-driven.
Let’s continue with Little Known Gems for $1,600. This is where you can find a wealth of educational resources for small businesses and their investors. Tough one, huh? Let’s go with What is sec.gov? That would be correct! You can locate our educational tools, resources, videos, and more from any page on the SEC’s website by clicking on the “small businesses” link in the upper right-hand corner. We hope you will take the time, or suggest that your clients take the time to explore the Capital-Raising Building Blocks — one pagers that cover many of the fundamentals of raising capital, to take a gander at the Glossary, which cuts through the legal and market-driven jargon used when small businesses raise capital, or to tune in to the Let’s Talk Small Business video series to hear insights from experts and thought leaders in the field. Plus, don’t forget to pop over to our Office’s homepage at sec.gov/oasb to dig into our colorful Annual Report, which showcases the state of small business capital formation, watch the recent SEC Small Business Forum recordings, or sign up for our email alerts to learn about upcoming events and new resources.
The resources, videos, and Annual Report contain a wealth of useful information for anyone involved in small business capital formation. Plus, what better way to prepare for your upcoming appearance on “It’s Academic,”[4] — I can see some of you remember that one — where your knowledge of small business capital-raising will be put to the test. Hey, does anyone know which states had the second greatest number of Regulation Crowdfunding or Regulation D offerings over the twelve-month period ended June 30, 2024? The answer to that question might just score your team the top prize! Even though I am inclined to send you to our Capital Trends Maps to find the answer, I’ll be kind and tell you that the correct responses are Pennsylvania and New York, respectively. [5]
The $100,000 Pyramid
Next up, let’s revisit another old game show favorite: the “$100,000 Pyramid.”[6] Small businesses need capital to open their doors, start operations, and grow. While some businesses hope to grow and scale their funding beyond $100,000, many are often seeking much smaller amounts to get started. Recently, 58% of new businesses began operations with less than $25,000, and 41% sought less than $50,000 in external financing or credit sources.[7] What are the primary ways that small businesses use that capital? To meet operating expenses, expand the business, or maintain available credit.[8]
Even though 40% of small businesses seek external financing, only 2% actually receive an equity investment, with those equity investments predominantly coming from the business owners or friends and family[9] — once again echoing the importance of networks and support, including from other entrepreneurs, professional networking groups, and college networks. Through our Office’s own outreach and engagement efforts, we have discovered time and again that even in many big cities, the local small business community gives “small town” vibes with networks of entrepreneurs, investors, and support organizations connecting by a few degrees of separation.
The Match Game
Every year, our Office has the privilege of speaking with a wide range of small business founders and investors from across the United States, as well as the those who provide assistance, advice, and guidance to them. This gets me thinking about the game show “Match Game”[10] — does anyone remember that fill-in-the-blank show from the 60s and 70s? Here’s an example: what would be a fill-in-the-blank response to this statement: “small and emerging businesses seek [BLANK] through an accelerator or incubator?” The game-winning response would be “support.” But other matching answers might include network development, access to potential investors, mentorship from business experts, and business skills development.[11]
To cite a few more nuggets from the research reflected in our Annual Report: Did you know that small businesses that participate in an accelerator program generate more revenue and hire more full-time employees?[12] How about that angel investors play a key role in mentoring founders?[13] Or that venture capital firms do the same by interacting with their portfolio companies typically at least once a week?[14] These matches between small businesses and those who support them are an essential part of the ecosystem that helps to develop and foster founders on their capital-raising journeys. Many areas of the country have a vibrant ecosystem of start-ups and support organizations — I saw it first-hand last year in Kansas City, where a number of those support organizations can be accessed using the city’s free streetcar system! Yet small businesses in many areas outside of the traditional capital raising hubs still struggle to secure the necessary support and capital that they need.
Let’s Make a Deal
Talking to founders about how they seek investment capital brings to mind yet another game show, “Let’s Make a Deal,”[15] where an audience member might be selected based on their outrageous costume to make a deal with the host of the show. Now, founders may not resort to quite so much drama to get the attention of potential investors — at least I hope they don’t — but they do often find themselves searching out the best deal.
So, how do those potential deals pan out? Pre-seed and seed funding accounted for $6 billion of investments during the first half of 2024 with a median seed round of $3.1 million.[16] Venture capital firms invested $86 billion during that same time frame with a median round of $5 billion for Series A and B and $7 billion for Series C and D.[17] Initial public offerings raised $19 billion during the first half of 2024, with the technology industry leading the pack.[18] While some companies are making deals, exit values — generated across acquisitions, buyouts, and public listings — have been on the decline.[19] And the struggle to make a deal is further exacerbated for those small businesses located outside of the traditional capital raising hubs.
Press Your Luck
My time as your game show host is quickly coming to an end, and I certainly don’t want to “Press [My] Luck”[20] and have one of those whammies from that show pop up on the screen behind me. So, instead, I will bring my remarks to a close and leave each of you with some parting words.
Do not forget to spread the word about the Small Business Advocacy Office with your colleagues, clients, and those who support the small business capital formation ecosystem. This Office exists to advocate and be a voice for small businesses and their investors. We continue to be committed to helping them find the support, guidance, and resources that they need to succeed on their journeys. One of the ways in which we can fulfill our vital role is to hear from founders and investors, as well as those who advise and champion them. You can always reach us at smallbusiness@sec.gov with questions or ideas. And do not forget to visit our resources by clicking on the “small businesses” link on sec.gov or relish the in-depth analysis provided in our Annual Report.
I appreciate you being an engaged studio audience today and do not blame me when you find yourself tuning into the Game Show Network tonight and yelling “no whammies, no whammies!”[21] Enjoy the remainder of this wonderful conference. And, the survey says, “thank you.”[22]
[1] “Jeopardy!” is a game show in which contestants receive clues in the form of answers and then give answers phrased like questions. See JEOPARDY, https://www.jeopardy.com/.
[2] “Family Feud” is a game show in which five members of one family are pitted against five members of another family. Each team’s goal is to guess the results of audience survey questions. See FAMILY FEUD, https://www.familyfeud.com/.
[3] Small Business Advocate Act of 2016, 15 U.S.C. §§ 78d and 78qq.
[4] “It’s Academic” is a game show that showcases high school students from around the National Capital Region in a head-to-head intellectual competition. IT’S ACADEMIC, https://itsacademicquizshow.com/.
[5] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at pp. 18-19. Data covers the 12-month period ended June 30, 2025.
[7] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 5
[8] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 6.
[9] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at pp. 6-7.
[11] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 8.
[12] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 9.
[13] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 10.
[14] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 22.
[15] “Let’s Make a Deal” is a game show in which audience members dress up in costumes to get the host’s attention to make deals for prizes or cash. See Let’s Make a Deal, CBS, https://www.gameshownetwork.com/match-game.
[16] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 12.
[17] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 24.
[18] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 31.
[19] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 30.
Source: Washington State News 2
SEATTLE – Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of Washington State Ferries’ busy season. And this year, summer comes with some welcome news for riders.
More sailings will return to three routes from mid-June through early July, just in time for the system’s peak travel surge.
WSF will bring back the following service:
“Thanks to recent and ongoing hiring and training, we are in a better position to staff the three boats needed for this added service,” said WSF Deputy Secretary Steve Nevey. The head of WSF also cautioned that with more vessels operating, there will be no dedicated backup ferry and fewer crew available for last-minute relief requests. “This raises the risk of cancellations due to staffing, equipment or terminal issues,” he added.
An updated Service Contingency Plan (PDF 2.4MB) has more details about service restoration and how WSF plans to respond if a boat becomes unavailable.
The holiday rush will ramp up on Thursday, May 22, which coincides with National Maritime Day this year. WSF is the largest employer of mariners in the region, supporting thousands of skilled maritime professionals who keep the system running every day. More than 300,000 people are expected aboard the 2,000+ sailings over the five-day period ending Monday, May 26.
To help navigate the crowds, customers are encouraged to download and use the Washington State Department of Transportation’s mobile app or visit the WSF website before heading to the terminal.
The app and website allow users to:
People boarding a ferry by vehicle can expect the busiest sailings will likely be westbound (or onto an island) Thursday through Saturday, May 22-24, and eastbound (or off island) Saturday through Monday, May 24-26. Prepare for long lines and extended wait times. With more than 400 departures a day, consider travelling early in the morning or late at night.
On Memorial Day, May 26, there will be a few holiday schedule changes for the Anacortes/San Juan Islands, Edmonds/Kingston, Point Defiance/Tahlequah and Port Townsend/Coupeville routes. The Seattle/Bainbridge Island run will operate a Saturday timetable and the Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route will use its two-boat weekend schedule. Holiday sailings are marked on the schedules for each route.
People using state highways to get to the ferry terminal should plan for potential holiday travel backups and delays by checking real-time traffic information on the WSDOT mobile app or online using the WSDOT travel map feature.
WSF, a division of the Washington State Department of Transportation, is the largest ferry system in the U.S. and safely and efficiently carries tens of millions of people a year through some of the most majestic scenery in the world.