Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Change of Governor of the Falkland Islands: Colin Martin-Reynolds
Mr Colin Martin-Reynolds CMG has been appointed Governor of the Falkland Islands and His Majesty’s Commissioner for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands in succession to Ms Alison Blake CMG. Mr Martin-Reynolds will take up his appointment during July 2025.
Curriculum vitae
Full name: Colin Martin-Reynolds
Date
Role
2023 to 2025
FCDO, Director, Organisational Improvement
2022 to 2023
FCDO, Director, Covid-19 Inquiry Unit
2019 to 2022
Bogota, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
2018
Pre-posting training (including Spanish language training)
Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
In 2022, Nearly 7 Million Older Americans—Including 13.7 Percent Of Older Americans in New York—Experienced Food Insecurity
Now, Republicans Are Trying To Cut Critical Programs That Help Seniors Put Food On The Table, Including Medicaid, Social Services Block Grant, and SNAP
Lawmakers: “The cuts will exacerbate hunger, poor health, and social isolation”
U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN),and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) wrote a letter to their Republican colleagues asking them to reconsider their proposed cuts and attacks on programs and agencies that support senior nutrition programs. The senators wrote in their capacities as ranking members of the Senate Committees on Aging; Finance; Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; Budget; Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry; and as Senate Democratic Leader, respectively. If implemented, the Republican’s proposed cuts to the programs will take hot meals, nutritious food, and social interaction away from millions of older adults nationwide, jeopardizing their health and quality of life.
“We are writing today to express our serious concerns regarding efforts by the Trump administration and the potential of cuts proposed in your budget resolution to debilitate our nation’s beloved nutrition programs for seniors, taking hot meals, sustenance, and social interaction away from our seniors to fund tax cuts for billionaires,” wrote the lawmakers. “These attacks are multifaceted and will deeply hurt all aspects of senior nutrition services, from funding to program delivery. The cuts will exacerbate hunger, poor health, and social isolation, and our nation’s seniors will be gravely harmed by these decisions.”
Specifically, the Senators asked Republicans to reconsider the following actions:
Cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is the largest food assistance program in the country;
The dismantling of the Administration for Community Living (ACL), which administers the Older Americans Act’s nutrition programs;
The elimination of the Social Services Block Grant, which provides critical funding for senior nutrition programs;
Cuts to Medicaid, which funds meal-delivery programs through Section 1115 waivers for home-bound older adults and people with disabilities; and
Attacks on the Social Security Administration, which ensures accurate and timely payment of Social Security benefits so that older adults and people with disabilities can put food on the table.
The full text of the Senators’ letter is available here or below:
Dear Republican Colleagues:
We are writing today to express our serious concerns regarding efforts by the Trump Administration and the potential of cuts proposed in your budget resolution to debilitate our nation’s beloved nutrition programs for seniors, taking hot meals, sustenance, and social interaction away from our seniors to fund tax cuts for billionaires. These attacks are multifaceted and will deeply hurt all aspects of senior nutrition services, from funding to program delivery. The cuts will exacerbate hunger, poor health, and social isolation, and our nation’s seniors will be gravely harmed by these decisions.
In 2022, nearly 7 million older Americans experienced food insecurity, with numbers projected to reach up to 9 million by 2050. Hunger is particularly salient for older adults living in rural areas and in the South. Food insecure seniors are 74 percent more likely to be diabetic, nearly 3 times more likely to suffer from depression, 71 percent more likely to have congestive heart failure, and 64 percent more likely to have a heart attack. Without access to nutritious food, seniors are more likely to live in poor health—this is not the life we want or envision for our older Americans.
Senior nutrition programs, such as Meals on Wheels, include meal delivery services and congregate nutrition programs (e.g., those provided at senior centers). For home-bound seniors, meal delivery services are a lifeline; for some, the meals delivered will be the only meal they have to eat all day. Beyond nutrition, meal delivery services provide life-sustaining social interaction and safety checks for older adults; many seniors report going for weeks without seeing another person if not for their home-delivered meals volunteers. Similarly, congregate meals provide the nutrition and social connection needed for seniors to live and thrive in their communities. Senior nutrition programs save taxpayer dollars by reducing more costly health care expenditures such as avoidable trips to the emergency room, and hospital admissions and readmissions. Furthermore, senior nutrition programs can delay or eliminate the need for placement in a long-term care facility. These programs use taxpayer dollars efficiently; the cost of just one day in a hospital or ten days in a nursing home is nearly equivalent to a full year of Meals on Wheels. Cutting senior nutrition programs will increase unnecessary health care expenditures among older adults.
In addition, funding from the Social Services Block Grant, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, and Social Security and Supplemental Security Income programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) enable seniors to put food on the table and access nutrition support. Enacting policies and funding cuts that force seniors to go hungry is cruel. We ask that you to stand with older Americans and reconsider any efforts to scale back support and back off attacks on the SSA and Administration of Community Living (ACL) programs.
We are specifically concerned about the impact of the following actions and proposed cuts:
The dismantling of the Administration for Community Living threatens the delivery of senior nutrition programs. The Older Americans Act (OAA) is a fundamental source of support for senior nutrition. In 2019, over 223 million meals were provided to older adults through OAA’s Nutrition Programs. ACL is responsible for the delivery of most OAA programs. The Department of Health and Human Services recently proposed a “reorganization” of ACL. However, there has been no clarity or transparency in the proposed reorganization. Transferring ACL programs to the Administration for Children and Families, Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services—also reeling from devastating staffing reductions— disrupts implementation of the home-delivered and congregate meals programs. Disruption in program administration and delivery means that the 2.4 million seniors who rely on these meal programs for critical nutrition are at risk of going hungry and of further health complications. We ask that you work with us to ensure the integrity and wholeness of any and all OAA programs that are being transferred out of ACL.
Eliminating the Social Services Block Grant and cutting Medicaid take food away from seniors. In addition to OAA funding, the Social Services Block Grant also provides critical support for senior nutrition programs. For example, cuts to the Social Services Block Grant will force the Meals on Wheels program in Abilene, Texas to cut more than half of its services, taking away hot meals and sustenance away from hundreds of Texans who are older adults or people with disabilities. Medicaid can also fill the gap of unmet food needs and reduce the likelihood of nutrition-related health conditions through meal-delivery programs provided through Section 1115 waivers for home-bound older adults and people with disabilities. We ask that you reconsider any potential attacks to the Social Services Block Grant, Medicaid funding and changes to waiver programs that address health- related social issues, and other vital sources of social services funding that help seniors live full and healthy lives.
Attacks on Social Security threaten seniors’ food security. The so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” or DOGE’s attack on the SSA has debilitated its ability to provide quality customer service and threatens timely and accurate benefit payments for seniors and people with disabilities. Forty percent of older Americans rely on Social Security as their only source of retirement income—money to make sure they have food on the table. Without their Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, over half of disabled adult beneficiaries would live below the federal poverty line. Through office closures and slashing of staff, SSA will not be able to provide critical customer services to Social Security beneficiaries. If DOGE continues to toy around with the integrity of the SSA’s payment system, a total collapse may result—seniors will not receive their Social Security checks, and they will go hungry. We ask that you rein in DOGE’s attacks on the SSA and work with us to strengthen the Social Security programs so all Americans can access their earned benefits.
Cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The SNAP Program is the centerpiece of our public anti-hunger infrastructure and is, by far, the biggest food assistance program promoting the food security of Americans. Food insecure seniors consume less energy and have lower intake of key nutrients, and SNAP participation is linked to fewer nursing home and hospital admissions for seniors. SNAP cuts of $230 billion or more, as contemplated by the budget resolution, would fall heavily on senior citizens, who would almost certainly be subject to benefit or eligibility cuts, forcing elderly individuals to make painful choices between purchasing food, medicine, or other daily necessities. We urge you to reconsider any potential cuts to SNAP.
Republican colleagues, we ask for your commitment to preserving and supporting these programs to ensure that our nation’s seniors have the nutrition and sustenance they need to live healthy, nourished lives in the community.
Sincerely,
Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
Proposal Would Increase Costs, Put Rural Hospitals At Risk Of Closure, Decrease Nursing Home Staffing, And Make It Harder For Kids To Access Care
Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference slamming a recent Republican proposal – otherwise known as the reconciliation bill — that would cause almost 8.6 million Americans, including up to 1.5 million New Yorkers, to lose their Medicaid coverage.
“This proposal would be catastrophic for the millions of Americans who rely on Medicaid,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Republicans should be focused on bringing down the cost of essentials; instead, they are making health care harder to access and more expensive. They have proposed work requirements for Medicaid that ignore the fact that most Medicaid recipients already work, and would cost New York State an estimated $500 million to administer and enforce – all for minimal cost savings. The Republican bill puts kids at risk of losing health care through Medicaid and CHIP and puts the future of our state’s many rural hospitals in jeopardy. This is an unacceptable piece of legislation, and I will be doing everything in my power to stop it from passing.”
Specifically, the Republican proposal would:
Put an estimated 400,000 kids at risk of losing their health care by undoing protections that make sure eligible children are enrolled in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The bill allows states to once again impose annual and lifetime benefit limits, waiting periods, and lockout periods for kids enrolled in CHIP.
Increase health care costs by undoing policies that make sure eligible low-income seniors and people with disabilities can more easily enroll in Medicaid. Eligible people with Medicare can sign up for Medicaid to help cover the cost of their Medicare premiums and cost-sharing. Because of this bill, more than 1 million seniors will pay higher Medicare premiums because they will not have Medicaid.
Create more red tape and barriers to careby burdening Americans with onerous paperwork, including new eligibility rules requiring certain Medicaid recipients to reapply every 6 months. These new requirements will also impose additional administrative costs on the program.
Take nurses out of nursing homes byundoing federal standards that make sure nursing homes are adequately staffed by qualified nursing professionals and ensure residents’ basic, minimum safety. Among other requirements, these policies require that nursing homes have a registered nurse on site 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. This $23 billion Medicaid cut diminishes seniors’ dignity and quality of life and rolls back policies expected to save the lives of 13,000 nursing home residents per year.
Put rural hospitals at risk of closure by limiting state-directed payments, known as provider taxes, that make it possible for rural and urban hospitals and clinics to remain open and care for patients by providing maternity, emergency, and behavioral health care. Funds collected by states through provider taxes are often directed to health care providers whose costs far exceed base Medicaid payment rates. These providers tend to be located in rural America – where health care services are hard to find – or in dense urban areas – where the cost to deliver health care is high and health care providers are serving more people with Medicaid.
More information about the proposal is available here.
Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today introduced the Protecting Minors in Federal Health Plans Act. The bill would prohibit Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) plans from covering gender transitions for minors.
“Taxpayer-funded federal health plans should never promote extreme gender ideology, especially on our youth,” said Risch. “My Protecting Minors in Federal Health Plans Act is commonsense legislation to ensure none of Idaho’s tax dollars fund these radical and harmful medical procedures.”
Risch is joined by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) in introducing the Protecting Minors in Federal Health Plans Act.
“When President Trump took office, he represented the majority of Americans who agree mutilation and gender-transition surgeries for children are wrong,” said Lummis. “I speak for the people of Wyoming when I say our tax dollars should not contribute to these procedures, and I am proud to join Senator Risch and President Trump in restoring commonsense to America.”
“These experimental surgeries have long term, life-altering impacts that can’t be reversed and must end,” said Ricketts. “Take Luka Hein from Omaha, for example, who was sixteen when she received a gender-reassignment surgery. This bill stops these sex-change surgeries for children.”
Under the Biden administration, the Office of Personnel Management encouraged FEHB carriers to cover “comprehensive gender-affirming care,” including hormone therapy, genital surgeries, facial reconstruction surgeries, and other services. Taxpayer-funded government contributions for FEHB plan premiums are estimated to total $50 billion in 2025.
In January, President Trump issued an Executive Order on Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation, declaring that the federal government would not fund, promote, or assist gender-transition procedures for minors. The order emphasized that such interventions are based on ideology rather than sound medical science and directed federal agencies to eliminate policies that support them. The Protecting Minors in Federal Health Plans Act codifies a portion of President Trump’s executive order.
The Protecting Minors in Federal Health Plans Act has received support from the Idaho Family Policy Center and the American Principles Project.
“Our tax dollars should never be used for the purpose of sterilizing children with gender dysphoria. These children are struggling—and they need real help, not irreversible surgical and pharmaceutical interventions. Both the State of Idaho and the Trump administration have taken steps to protect these vulnerable children. Now, it’s time that the U.S. Congress follows this growing consensus. Idaho Family Policy Center thanks Senator Risch for his bold leadership in introducing this legislation to stop federal health plans from covering these destructive and highly experimental sex change procedures for children,” said Blaine Conzatti, President of Idaho Family Policy Center.
While President Donald J. Trump is in the Gulf region securing over a trillion dollars’ worth of investments in U.S. companies, deals on the home front keep coming:
Sanofiannounced it will invest at least $20 billion over the next five years in manufacturing and research and development.
Kraft Heinzannounced a $3 billion investment to upgrade its U.S. factories — its largest investment in its plants in decades.
Carrierannounced an additional $1 billion investment in manufacturing, innovation, and workforce expansion, which will create 4,000 new jobs.
Anheuser-Buschannounced a $300 million investment in its manufacturing facilities across the country.
Siemens Healthineersannounced a $150 million investment to expand production, including relocating manufacturing operations for its Varian company from Mexico to California.
That’s in addition to the trillions of dollars already secured in President Trump’s second term — investments that will bring tens of thousands of new, high-paying jobs to communities across the country as President Trump ushers in the new Golden Age.
Source: The White House
While President Donald J. Trump is in the Gulf region securing over a trillion dollars’ worth of investments in U.S. companies, deals on the home front keep coming:
Sanofi announced it will invest at least $20 billion over the next five years in manufacturing and research and development.
Kraft Heinz announced a $3 billion investment to upgrade its U.S. factories — its largest investment in its plants in decades.
Carrier announced an additional $1 billion investment in manufacturing, innovation, and workforce expansion, which will create 4,000 new jobs.
Anheuser-Busch announced a $300 million investment in its manufacturing facilities across the country.
Siemens Healthineers announced a $150 million investment to expand production, including relocating manufacturing operations for its Varian company from Mexico to California.
That’s in addition to the trillions of dollars already secured in President Trump’s second term — investments that will bring tens of thousands of new, high-paying jobs to communities across the country as President Trump ushers in the new Golden Age.
A serving officer has been convicted of assaulting a man suffering a mental health crisis after he sprayed him with PAVA and stuck him 14 times with a baton while he was already restrained.
PC Rhys Walmer, attached to the East Area Basic Command Unit, was convicted on Thursday, 15 May of causing assault by beating and administering a noxious substance (PAVA) with intent to injure/aggrieve/annoy following a trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court.
He will be sentenced at the same court on Monday, 14 July.
Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell, in charge of policing for the East Area Basic Command Unit, said: “The level of force used by PC Walmer was not proportionate or necessary and his actions have been subject to proper scrutiny and accountability through the legal process.
“I would like to thank the hospital staff for quite rightly raising their concerns with the officer’s supervisor. All officers must be held account for their actions, especially when it comes to use of force. Those found to be using excessive use of force, like PC Walmer, will be brought to justice.”
The court heard that on 3 August 2022, officers from the East Area Basic Command Unit were on hospital guard at an east London hospital for a man who had been arrested and subsequently sectioned under the Mental Health Act.
He was at hospital awaiting an assessment and had been placed in handcuffs, limb restraints and a spit guard.
The victim appeared to be resisting officers and as he attempted to stand up, Walmer deployed his PAVA into his face.
As officers continued to restrain the victim, Walmer delivered a total of 14 strikes with his baton to his right arm and leg – despite the victim already being restrained by three officers and being in limb restraints, handcuffs and a spit guard.
Due to the level of force used by Walmer, hospital staff raised their concerns with a police supervisor. They carried out enquiries and the incident was passed to the local Policing Standard Unit, which referred it to the Directorate of Professional Standards.
Following a thorough investigation, Walmer was charged by postal requisition on 21 June 2024 and was convicted as above.
Walmer was placed on restricted duties in November 2022.
Now that criminal proceedings have taken place, Walmer will face a misconduct hearing at the earliest opportunity.
Lewisporte RCMP is investigating multiple incidents of break, enter and theft that occurred between May 1 and May 4, 2025, at Prolium Storage Tank Maintenance Experts in Lewisporte.
Shortly before 10:30 p.m. on May 1, a suspect entered a secure outdoor compound on the commercial property and forced access inside the business. The same suspect returned to the business on at least two other occasions between this time and May 4, 2025. Police believe that the suspect may have been at the business days prior to the crime.
A number of tools, including pressure washers, welders, drills, skill saws, grinders, and impact wrenches were stolen. The vast majority of the tools were DeWalt brand. The suspect was captured on surveillance walking away from the business, carrying duffle bags which were full of the stolen property.
Lewisporte RCMP asks the public to report any suspicious activity that may have been observed in the area of the business between May 1-4, 2025.
Anyone having any information about this crime, the person(s) responsible or the current location of the stolen property is asked to contact Lewisporte RCMP at 709-535-8637. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visitwww.nlcrimestoppers.comor use the P3Tips app.
This week, the dean of the School of Dental Medicine, along with faculty, received awards from the Connecticut State Dental Society (CSDA) during their annual meeting.
According to the CSDA, this year’s honorees have “demonstrated exceptional dedication, skill, and innovation in their respective areas.”
Dr. Steven Lepowsky, dean, received the CSDA Presidential Award, the highest recognition from the state dental association. The award is given to a CSDA member, dentist, group or any other contributor that has enhanced the image and professionalism of dentistry.
Dr. Afroditi Pita, assistant professor of general dentistry, received the Rising Star Award. This award recognizes advocacy, philanthropy, or community service, and excellence entrepreneurial skills, or ethical behavior. The Rising Star has also made significant contributions in the field of science and has held leadership positions in the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) chapter of their school, local dental society, or the CSDA.
Along with Pita, recent graduate in the Class of 2025, Dr. Sarah Nevolis, also received the Rising Star Award.
Dr. Elie Ferneini, associate clinical professor of oral and maxillofacial surgery, received the Horace Hayden Award. This award recognizes contributions to the interest of dentistry and dental health.
The Rhode Island Department Transportation (RIDOT) is reminding motorists that tomorrow, Friday, May 16 at 9 p.m., it is scheduled to temporarily close the Devil’s Foot Road Bridge, located between School Street and the Davisville Road/Old Baptist Road intersection in North Kingstown.
The bridge will remain closed until approximately late fall 2025, when RIDOT anticipates completing the replacement of the bridge’s superstructure. It carries about 5,200 vehicles a day on Devil’s Foot Road, over Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor.
During the closure, motorists can use the following detours:
From Post Road to Frenchtown Road: Use Devil’s Foot Road eastbound to Post Road northbound. Use the turnaround for Route 1 South to Frenchtown Road westbound.
Frenchtown Road to Post Road: Follow Frenchtown Road eastbound to Route 1 South to its intersection with Devil’s Foot Road.
Local Traffic on Devil’s Foot Road (east of the closed bridge) to Frenchtown Road: Use the on-ramp at West Davisville Road to Route 403 West toward Route 4. Use the ramp to Route 4 South, then take Exit 7A for Frenchtown Road.
Local Traffic on Devil’s Foot Road (west of the closed bridge) to Post Road: Follow Davisville Road westbound to Frenchtown Road, turn right, then right again onto Post Road southbound. A detour map is available at www.ridot.net/DetourMaps.
The bridge currently has a 5-ton weight limit and is classified as structurally deficient. It was built in 2007 as part of the Route 403 highway project, but RIDOT determined that the concrete box beams used in its construction had a fabrication defect and its superstructure needed to be replaced. The work on the Devil’s Foot Road Bridge is part of a larger, $76.8 million multi-bridge project that also will replace the bridges carrying Route 2 and Frenchtown Road over Route 4. The entire project is scheduled for completion in Spring 2027.
All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings, and weather.
Work on the Devil’s Foot Road Bridge is made possible by RhodeWorks. RIDOT is committed to bringing Rhode Island’s infrastructure into a state of good repair while respecting the environment and striving to improve it. Learn more at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.
Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, on Thursday inaugurated the newly constructed Administrative-cum-Academic Block of the College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), located at Jalukie in Nagaland.
Addressing the gathering at the inaugural function, the Union Minister lauded the progress made in the agriculture and livestock sectors in Nagaland. He acknowledged the region’s unique agri-products and potential, and announced a financial assistance of ₹338.83 crore for the overall growth and development of the agriculture sector in the state.
Chouhan urged the Nagaland government to formulate a comprehensive action plan for agriculture and rural development. He assured the state of the Centre’s full cooperation and support in this endeavour.
To strengthen grassroots agricultural development, the Minister suggested the formation of a core scientific team in each district. This team would include scientists, officials from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), university professionals, and farmers. He said the team should engage directly with farmers in villages at least twice a month to understand their challenges, which would facilitate evidence-based policy making and appropriate technological interventions.
Highlighting the scope for natural farming in Nagaland, the Union Minister said the Central Government is committed to supporting such sustainable practices. He also appreciated the initiatives of the College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry and invited its students to Delhi to share their innovative ideas with him.
Chouhan assured full cooperation and financial assistance for entrepreneurship and start-up development among students, and expressed his desire to visit Nagaland again for further interaction with farmers and students.
Nagaland Governor La. Ganesan, who presided over the function, commended the role played by Central Agricultural University, Imphal and its constituent college in advancing animal healthcare and agricultural development in the region. He stressed the importance of scientific methods and collaboration among stakeholders to realise the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, T. R. Zeliang, also spoke at the event, underlining the need for technical interventions and research-driven farming to achieve agricultural and economic progress in the state.
The event witnessed participation from 639 farmers and 84 officials from both the State and Central Governments.
DENVER – Today, Governor Polis ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Thursday, May 15th, in recognition of Peace Officer Memorial Day, to honor the Peace Officers who have died or been killed in the line of duty protecting Colorado communities.
“Today, on Peace Officer Memorial Day, we honor the public safety service members who have died protecting us and our communities. Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line each day to keep us safe, and it is important for us to take a moment today to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our safety. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of fallen officers, and my gratitude is with those who serve our state each and every day,” said Governor Polis.
Voters this past November passed Proposition 130, investing $350 million in law enforcement recruitment, training, retention efforts, and creating additional benefits to support the families of officers killed in the line of duty. Governor Polis is committed to implementing this funding as quickly as possible to strengthen law enforcement and support the families whose loved ones gave their lives for our safety. The legislature formalized these investments through SB25-310 – Proposition 130 Implementation, which Governor Polis looks forward to signing into law soon.
President Trump’s proclamation reads:
On Peace Officers Memorial Day and during Police Week, we honor our brave officers who serve on the front lines to protect our families, safeguard our communities, and shoulder a burden of responsibility that most Americans cannot fathom. This week and always, we honor the courageous men and women serving in law enforcement and memorialize those who sacrificed their lives defending the thin blue line.
A nation in chaos ceases to be a citadel of liberty. Tragically, the previous administration allowed lawlessness to permeate our country, making it harder for our law enforcement officers to do their jobs. Their reckless, soft-on-crime policies emboldened criminals and thugs; wreaked havoc on the sanctity of our homes, businesses, and public spaces; instilled fear; and jeopardized public trust.
As your 47th President, I am fulfilling my promise to make America safe again by reclaiming sovereignty on the border and restoring the rule of law in communities nationwide. We will utilize every available means to equip and train law enforcement, retain qualified officers, and recruit on the basis of meritocracy.
The oath to serve and protect comes with extraordinary risk and sacrifice, and we are indebted to those who choose this righteous profession. That is why I have asked the Congress to codify my Executive Order mandating the death penalty for the murder of a police officer — sending an unequivocal message that barbaric acts of violence and blatant disregard for the lives of our Nation’s heroes will not be tolerated — and to pass a crime bill with enhanced protections for police officers.
I stand in steadfast solidarity with those who defend our freedoms and the families who love and support them. We pray for those who grieve the fallen and pledge that their lives, legacies, and sacrifices will forever be remembered by our grateful Nation. By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (Public Law 87-726, 76 Stat. 676), and by Public Law 105-225 (36 U.S.C. 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the week in which it falls as “Police Week.”
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2025, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 11 through May 17, 2025, as Police Week. I call upon all Americans to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also call on the Governors of the States and Territories and officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty‑five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
India and the European Union have jointly launched two major research initiatives under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), aiming to develop innovative solutions in the areas of marine pollution and green hydrogen production from waste. The projects, backed by a combined investment of ₹391 crore (approximately €41 million), mark a significant step in strengthening bilateral cooperation in science and technology.
The TTC, established in 2022 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, serves as a platform to deepen strategic collaboration in trade and technology between India and the EU.
The first initiative focuses on tackling the pressing issue of marine plastic litter and other pollutants. Co-funded by the European Union and India’s Ministry of Earth Sciences, this project aims to develop advanced tools to monitor, assess, and reduce the harmful impact of pollutants such as microplastics, heavy metals, and organic compounds on marine ecosystems. The research is expected to contribute to global commitments like the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and support national policies, including India’s National Marine Litter Policy and the EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan.
Speaking on the occasion, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, said that collaborative research plays a pivotal role in addressing shared environmental challenges. EU Ambassador to India, Hervé Delphin, underscored that joint efforts to address marine pollution and sustainable energy underscore the growing momentum in the EU-India partnership.
Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Dr. M. Ravichandran, remarked that marine pollution is a global concern that demands collaborative solutions, adding that this initiative will help in developing effective strategies to protect marine biodiversity.
The second initiative targets the development of sustainable hydrogen production technologies by converting biogenic waste into green hydrogen. Supported by the EU and India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, the project is in alignment with the EU’s Hydrogen Strategy and India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission. The focus is on creating cost-effective and environmentally sustainable methods to produce hydrogen using agricultural, municipal, and industrial waste.
Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary at the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, described the partnership as a testament to the two sides’ commitment to sustainable development. Secretary of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Santosh Kumar Sarangi, noted that advancing waste-to-hydrogen technologies is key to meeting India’s clean energy goals.
Marc Lemaître, Director-General for Research and Innovation at the European Commission, highlighted the scale of investment and cooperation, calling it a clear demonstration of India and the EU’s joint commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
The calls for proposals under both initiatives have been officially opened this month, inviting Indian and European researchers to collaborate and contribute to the development of transformative technologies for environmental protection and renewable energy.
Pakistan’s record with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) reads like a trilogy of broken promises. From 2008 to 2022, the country slipped onto – and briefly wriggled off – the Grey List three times. The first listing, on 28 February 2008, lasted 848 days; the second, from 16 February 2012, ran for 1,106 days; and the third, beginning 28 June 2018, dragged on for 1,576 days. With each removal, Islamabad issued florid assurances, yet the underlying machinery of terror finance remained intact.
Terror groups targeting India – such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) – together with organisations like al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State, including its Khorasan offshoot (ISKP), continue to raise money under the watchful – and largely indulgent – eye of Pakistan’s security establishment, weak governance structures and corrupt networks.
The pattern has become wearily familiar. In 2008, FATF’s notice was almost courteous, asking Islamabad to plug ‘loopholes’. By 2012, the language had hardened, demanding the freezing of terrorist assets and alignment with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1267. A reprieve granted in 2015 was hedged with instructions to continue working ‘closely’ with the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG), part of the FATF’s global network, of which Pakistan is a member.
When the watchdog returned with grey-listing in 2018, it tabled a withering ten-point agenda, later expanded to 34 specific actions. Pakistan was tasked to identify, analyse, control and end terror financing, and to involve its law-enforcement agencies actively in the process. A clutch of compliance Bills was hurried through Parliament in an effort to meet FATF norms.
The FATF Plenary removed Pakistan from the Grey List in October 2022, but with the reminder: ‘Pakistan will continue to work with the APG to further improve its AML/CFT system.’ Though forced to meet every FATF benchmark, history suggests the country cannot be trusted.
That fragile façade shattered anew on 22 April 2025. In Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, terrorists – two of them Pakistani nationals – slaughtered 26 civilians. The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. Far from being a rogue cell, the TRF operates within the same terror ecosystem that Pakistan’s deep state has nurtured for decades.
The atrocity has forced an awkward question back onto the FATF Plenary convening in June 2025: can a country that remains a safe haven for terrorist groups be allowed to stay off the Grey List?
New Delhi’s answer was swift and calibrated. On 7 May, India launched Operation Sindoor, a series of surgical strikes designed to neutralise the infrastructure that spawned the Pahalgam massacre. The headquarters of LeT in Muridke and of JeM in Bahawalpur were reduced to rubble, along with seven other terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The raids were deliberately narrow – no civilian structures were touched – underscoring India’s resolve to respond to terror with precision, not escalation.
The very existence of these compounds, after Islamabad had sworn to uphold FATF norms on terror financing, lays bare the cosmetic nature of Pakistan’s past compliance. Three listings in fourteen years reveal a state that treats FATF deadlines as inconveniences to be gamed until diplomatic pressure subsides.
Headline: Making learning more accessible with Microsoft Education
For GAAD 2025, explore how Microsoft accessibility tools enhance education, creating inclusive and engaging classrooms where every student can thrive.
Accessibility tools for learning play a significant role in student success, helping all students fully engage with what’s happening in class and beyond. By providing access to content that might otherwise be difficult to access, these tools help to create a more inclusive classroom where everyone can feel understood, valued, and supported for their unique strengths. Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2025, celebrated on May 15, reminds us that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.
Every student—whether they have a permanent disability, a temporary challenge like a broken hand, a situational disability such as difficulty reading in bright sunlight, or simply needs extra support with reading or writing—can benefit from greater accessibility to digital tools to support their learning experience. At Microsoft, we believe accessibility isn’t just a feature—it’s a foundation for empowering all students and educators to reach their full potential. Built-in accessibility features across Microsoft software and hardware can amplify everyone’s success, regardless of learning differences or physical abilities. Explore Microsoft accessibility tools and see how you can make learning more inclusive, engaging, and equitable for your school community.
Building an inclusive learning environment
Every student’s learning needs are unique. Some may have a disability, while others might be learning English, recovering from an injury, or trying to focus in a noisy home environment. Microsoft accessibility tools are designed to empower every student to engage independently and confidently in their learning. These tools come with built-in accessibility features, eliminating the need for extra downloads or stigmatizing third-party applications. Students get the help they need, right when they need it.
Get started with Microsoft accessibility tools today and learn how to create a more inclusive classroom experience with professional learning from Microsoft Learn.
Start the accessibility training module
Immersive Reader
Available in Microsoft products like Reading Coach and Microsoft Edge, Immersive Reader can help students improve reading comprehension, while also supporting learning differences. Students can use line focus to concentrate on one part of the text at a time. They can break words into syllables, adjust font size, and increase line, word, and letter spacing to reduce visual crowding to improve readability. For educators in Kent School District in Washington, US, using Immersive Reader helps make sure that all students are empowered to share their voices and participate.
I think when we’ve got kids that need different support mechanisms to learn, the Microsoft assisted learning tools become really, really vital. Last year, I had a student that had dysgraphia and dyslexia and so being able to listen to the audio was necessary and the Immersive Reader was essential for the success of this student.
Amber Raftery, sixth-grade teacher, Kent School District, US
As teacher-librarian and technology integration specialist Amber Gonzalez shares, the power of Microsoft 365 is that accessibility and assistive learning features like Immersive Reader are just one click away—helping to make it easy for every student to get the support they need, when they need it.
Reading Coach
Reading Coach is a free, standalone Learning Accelerator that uses AI-powered stories and personalized practice to help students improve their reading fluency. Used by half a million learners in over 190 countries worldwide, Reading Coach can help make reading more engaging and accessible with built-in tools like Immersive Reader, providing an opportunity for students to boost their potential and confidence. Educators can also suggest reading practices and track student progress with new educator features in Reading Coach.
After three weeks of Reading Coach, we saw students gain one reading level—sometimes even one and a half. Some jumped two levels in just six weeks. And nearly half the class reached their expected reading level.
Kris Vande Moortel, former teacher and Microsoft education advisor, Belgium
Get started with Reading Coach
Reading Coach with AI-powered stories helps students take charge of their learning and push themselves further by providing individualized support. Some teachers are seeing remarkable progress in a fraction of the time—giving them more opportunities for one-on-one attention where it’s needed.
Microsoft Translator
Translator offers real-time translation of text and speech in over 60 languages, helping to make communication easier for students, parents, and caregivers who speak different languages. For educators in Texas City Independent School District, the embedded support of Translator in Word and mobile devices helps ensure that multilingual students have assistance when they encounter an unfamiliar word.
We found that Microsoft Translator is key to enabling English as a second language (ESL) students to keep up and to learn along with the rest of the class. When they are hung up on a word or a phrase or want to learn how to say something in English, they can transition back to their native language and use Translator to quickly contextualize in English.
Hope Smalley-Jackson, business teacher, Texas City Independent School District, US
Students can use Translator at school, home, or whenever they need language support. It can help bridge communication gaps, supporting accessible classroom learning with cross-language understanding and even multilingual casual conversations to help students and families.
Additional tools
If typing is tough—whether due to learning challenges, a temporary issue like a broken arm, or even fatigue—students can use dictation to turn speech into text effortlessly. Tools like live captions also help by converting speech to text or translating languages in PowerPoint, OneNote, and Microsoft Teams meetings, providing support for people with hearing disabilities, auditory processing disorders, or language needs. Plus, live captions fully supports multiple languages, making content accessible for multilingual speakers, too.
Support accessibility with AI
Additionally, AI-powered tools can help you address specific student needs. For instance, a 2024 study commissioned by Microsoft from professional services firm EY highlights how AI can help address the specific challenges faced by employees who are neurodivergent or living with a disability. The study found that Microsoft 365 Copilot helped:
Remove barriers that arise like drafting communication and organizing thoughts.
Reclaim time and energy by simplifying tasks like summarizing and proofreading.
Boost confidence and sense of inclusion by enhancing performance and work quality.
While the study focused on workplace settings, the insights can be applied to educational environments. Just as AI tools can support diverse employee needs, they can also be instrumental in addressing diverse learning needs. Copilot helps educators personalize instruction, making it easier to tailor lessons to individual student requirements. Educators in Northern Ireland saw this firsthand when the Education Authority of Northern Ireland (EANI) adopted Copilot.
EANI initially rolled out AI-powered learning tools on a small scale, selecting key innovative educators to pilot the free version of Copilot Chat in their classrooms. They also introduced training sessions focused on effective prompt writing, showcasing Microsoft 365 Copilot capabilities. Educators quickly discovered the practical benefits of upgrading to Microsoft 365 Copilot for tasks like creating PowerPoint presentations, generating questions in Microsoft Forms, and developing differentiated classroom resources. The substantial time savings and enhanced ability to meet diverse student needs drove widespread staff adoption and growing enthusiasm.
Try Copilot Chat
Make your classroom more inclusive by using AI to differentiate materials for students. Try using the dedicated IEP assistant tool in Khanmigo for Teachers or use Copilot Chat and your own prompts and files to help you draft parts of an individualized education program (IEP).
For Copilot Chat, be sure to sign in with your school’s Microsoft account to ensure your data is protected, then copy and paste this prompt:
You are a special education teacher drafting an IEP for a [grade level] student who [describe student’s needs]. Write a goal for [area/topic] that is specific, measurable, attainable, reasonable, and time bound.
Whether you’re exploring AI, excited to try Reading Coach, or looking to make your classroom more inclusive with tools like Immersive Reader and Translator, GAAD 2025 is the perfect time to dive in. Get started and explore Microsoft accessibility tools to help every student thrive.
Headline: Xbox celebrates Global Accessibility Awareness Day
The gates of Hell are open to all. Diablo IV designers and engineers have worked alongside accessibility experts to perfect its advanced screen reader technology and develop new tools for navigation assistance. This includes the addition of the compass and audio enhancements to ensure as many players as possible can slay the forces of Hell and defend Sanctuary. The video above provides an in-depth look at how these features were concepted, built, tested, and refined, and also showcases how accessibility fits into the overall development workflow for Diablo IV.
Diablo IV, featuring cross-play and cross-progression, is available on PC via Battle.net and Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, and PlayStation 4, plus up to four player co-op, including two-player couch co-op on consoles.
Bringing Accessibility to the Forefront via the Games Industry, Hardware and Events
Xbox Helps Launch the Accessible Games Initiative
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In March, Xbox joined partners across the gaming industry to unveil the Accessible Games Initiative. Helmed by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), this initiative strives to provide players with clear information about the accessibility features in games through a set of “tags” shared across the industry that are surfaced on storefronts and game product description pages. These tags have specific criteria to help ensure that users who rely on them have consistently delightful experiences.
We have also begun transitioning our current Xbox Accessibility Feature tags to the Accessible Games Initiative tags. As part of this process, players may notice some discrepancies in the tag names that appear in various Xbox experiences during this time and these potential discrepancies will be resolved once transition engineering work is completed by July 2025. Any Xbox Game Accessibility Feature tags that do not have equivalent Accessible Games Initiative tags will remain on our platform. This combination of tags will make it even easier for players with disabilities to find their next great game and understand the accessibility features available to play.
Xbox Adaptive Joystick Now Available for Purchase
As part of the Microsoft Ability Summit in March, we announced that the Xbox Adaptive Joystick is now available for purchase exclusively through the Microsoft Store. Built in collaboration with the Gaming and Disability community, the Xbox Adaptive Joystick is a singular, wired controller primarily designed to meet the needs of players with limited mobility. Its versatility helps players seamlessly incorporate it into their existing gaming setups.
To learn more about the Xbox Adaptive Joystick’s features and customization options, visit Xbox Support.
King Player Accessibility Days (PAD)
King is proud to announce the return of Player Accessibility Days (PAD) in 2025, which will be bigger, bolder, and more inclusive than ever.
This initiative, which kicked off last year, started as a way to raise awareness across King of the challenges that players with accessibility needs face when playing our games. With educational talks from industry leaders and first-hand stories from the players themselves, PAD aims to ensure that inclusive game design is at the heart of everything we do.
This year, we’re collaborating with Xbox Research to empower teams across King to create more inclusive games, products, and player experiences. From enhanced audio features that cater to players with auditory disabilities to visual adjustments that improve gameplay for those with visual challenges, we’re putting accessibility into motion across several aspects of our games. By integrating these features and fostering a culture of inclusivity, we’re ensuring that every player, regardless of ability, can enjoy the magic of mobile gaming.
Building on last year’s momentum, PAD 2025 marks a significant step forward in our commitment to accessibility, with the goal of transforming it from a checklist into a company-wide mindset.
Join teams across Xbox as we continue to champion accessibility on Global Accessibility Awareness Day, and beyond.
Headline: AI in action: Jenny Lay-Flurrie on Global Accessibility Awareness Day
Today we celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) and work across the industry to make technology easier for everyone. At Microsoft, our journey with accessibility started in the 90’s, and is a cornerstone to our mission. We are committed to engraining accessibility into our culture, to build for all, and innovate to empower people around the world.
AI has been a game changer for accessibility. It is accelerating theaccessibility journeyin exciting ways. Making it easier to do everyday tasks and tackling some of the toughest problems of our times. Launching some new technologies and partnerships today. Let’s dig in!
Data unlocks new opportunities for AI
High-quality and representative data can lead to more reliable outcomes from trustworthy AI systems. We are proud to support two projects using disability data to drive change:
Disability Demographics around the world:We’ve been working with the World Bank Group as they launch the newDisability Data Hub—the first open data initiative to provide disability-disaggregated development data across 63 global economies. This addresses the need for a single, comprehensive global dashboard to close data gaps that have historically excluded disabled individuals from development agendas. “Robust disability disaggregated data,” says Charlotte McClain-Nhlapo, Global Disability Advisor and Lead Social Specialist at The World Bank, “is an essential component for inclusive development. Across the globe, governments, the private sector, organizations of persons with disabilities and development partners, need the data to design policies, provide services, and allocate resources.” Check out thehubfor more information.
Accelerating ALS Research Worldwide: ALS currently has no known cure. We are proud to support Answer ALS and ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI) in their ongoing work to find a cure and therapies for ALS. When theNeurominedata portal launched on Azure, Clare Durrett, Managing Director at Answer ALS, “envisioned researchers worldwide diving into its rich data to uncover ALS’s hidden patterns, from genetic triggers to progression markers,”and now this tool has supported 400+ independent research projects around the world. As these organizations combine their data this summer, the total number of data points available to researchers on Neuromine will grow to more than 300 trillion, and Dr. Fernando Vieira, CEO and Chief Scientific Officer at ALS TDI, expects it “to be a force-multiplier, enabling researchers to leverage these complementary datasets to rapidly generate and validate hypotheses and, ultimately, uncover paths toward more effective treatments for people with ALS.”
Representation matters
We recognize the critical responsibility to ensure authentic disability representation in AI systems. One of the most pressing challenges is that generated content, such as images, can misrepresent or stereotype disability, leading to harmful inaccuracies or even the exclusion of certain identities. These gaps in representation data can reinforce bias and erode trust.
Launching today, Bing Image Creator will generate more accurate depictions of disabilities such as Autism and Down Syndrome, and will be expanding to other areas in the coming months. We collaborated with individuals with lived experience, trusted external partners, and AI researchers to better understand how disability is portrayed—both accurately and not—within AI models. Try it yourself in Bing Image Creator or to learn more about our approach, check outTrustworthy AI and disability.
As hunger deepens and Gaza’s health system collapses, the US and Israel are pushing a new aid mechanism, which raises widespread ethical, legal, security, and logistical concerns, said Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières on Wednesday.
The plan—centered around the so-called Gaza Humanitarian Foundation—seeks to bypass UN-led coordination and place aid delivery under direct Israeli control, effectively forcing a militarized system on humanitarian organizations, donors, and civilians, said MSF.
The United States, the UN, EU member states, and all those with influence over Israel must urgently use their political and economic leverage to stop the instrumentalization of aid.
Avril Benoît, CEO of MSF USA
Rather than facilitate access, the plan threatens to further institutionalize obstruction, instrumentalize aid, and entrench the Israeli occupation. By conditioning lifesaving assistance on displacement and compliance with Israeli screening, the plan violates humanitarian principles. Making aid conditional on forced displacement and vetting of the population would be another tool in the ongoing campaign of ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian population. MSF firmly rejects and condemns this plan of full control over who receives aid. We cannot accept a system which subjugates humanitarian aid to military and occupation objectives.
The obstruction of humanitarian aid is a direct violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2720, which calls for the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians. Claims that aid is being diverted by Hamas remain unverified and in no way justify such measures. As the occupying power, Israel must facilitate impartial humanitarian assistance for the population in need.
“The United States, the UN, EU member states, and all those with influence over Israel must urgently use their political and economic leverage to stop the instrumentalization of aid,” said Avril Benoît, CEO of MSF in the United States. “Humanitarian supplies, food, fuel, and medicines must be allowed to reach the people of Gaza now. Humanitarian aid must reach all the people who desperately need it.”
Organizations including World Central Kitchen and the World Food Programme (WFP) have announced that they have no more food stocks available in Gaza. Most community kitchens and bakeries have closed. MSF medical teams in Gaza City have seen a 32 percent increase in the number of patients presenting with malnutrition over the past two weeks.
Message from Gaza: “We are running out of time to save lives”
Dwindling fuel stocks are limiting the ability to desalinate and distribute water. The health facilities that are still functioning—already critically inadequate in number and capacity for the population—are still being attacked and are suffering from rapidly diminishing stocks of medications and other essential supplies. MSF teams in Gaza have not been able to receive any supplies for 11 weeks and face critical shortages of essential medical items such as sterile compresses and sterile gloves.
Israel’s evacuation orders and established no-go military zones now cover 70 percent of Gaza. The population has been forcibly transferred from one place to another, while not a single area of Gaza has been spared from attacks. The desperateness of the situation is such that MSF teams have treated and discharged patients only to see them return with new injuries.
Israel’s plan to instrumentalize aid is a cynical response to the very humanitarian crisis they created. If they wished, Israel and its allies could lift the blockade today and let humanitarian aid reach all those in Gaza whose survival depends on it.
MANDAN, ND (May 15, 2025) — In the first hearing since the trial concluded in Energy Transfer’s bullying lawsuit against Greenpeace Inc., Greenpeace Fund, and Greenpeace International, the defendants argued to reduce the more than $660 million damages awarded to Energy Transfer. Arguments included the fact that damages awarded exceed what is allowed by the law and bear no reasonable relationship to Energy Transfer’s alleged damages.
Deepa Padmanabha, Senior Legal Advisor, Greenpeace USA, said: “Our fight is far from over. Today’s hearing was another step in this important legal battle to protect the rights to protest and free speech, especially as we are witnessing unprecedented attacks on these rights. As we await the Court’s decision on our motion to reduce the damages award, we will continue to fight back against all attempts to silence and intimidate those speaking truth to power.”
Kristin Casper, General Counsel, Greenpeace International, said: “While the Court reserved its ruling on today’s motions and did not enter a final judgment, we presented compelling arguments to reduce the perverse damages the jury awarded. Regardless of the outcome, Greenpeace International is committed to exhausting all legal avenues to challenge and overturn any outcome that violates our rights.”
The next hearing on May 27, 2025 will address renewed requests by Greenpeace defendants for the Court to rule in their favor — despite the jury reaching a different conclusion — because the evidence presented at trial was legally insufficient to rule in Energy Transfer’s favor. Other post-trial matters could also be raised and argued at the upcoming hearing.
Contact: Madison Carter, Greenpeace USA Senior Communications Specialist, [email protected]
Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine looks at a new CRISPR gene therapy for children with a rare genetic disease.
Dr Alena Pance, Senior Lecturer in Genetics, University of Hertfordshire, said:
“The authors searched thoroughly for off-target effects because this would seriously jeopardise the use of the approach in therapy. However, as far as the document I could see goes, there is no attempt to assess the cell type targeting efficacy, meaning whether the genetic tools (CRISPR and guide RNA) are reaching hepatocytes and what percentage or proportion of these cells are being corrected. This is very important because this will determine the level of physiological improvement of the disease hence also the value of the intervention.
“CRISPR-based therapy has been used to correct genetic diseases before as the authors mention in their introduction. The best example is the recently approved therapy for sickle cell disease. The approach used in that case, as well as the one in development for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, is different though in the sense that sickle cell anaemia is overcome by using CRISPR tools to de-silence a foetal globin gene that leads to functional haemoglobin. This is done outside the body using Haematopoietic stem cells which give rise to all cell types in the blood, these cells are obtained from the patient, modified and then put back to re-populate the bone marrow, so in this way full correction can be achieved. The DMD approach consists in using CRISPR to cause skipping of the portion of the dystrophin gene that has the most frequent mutations in it. These mutations lead to deficiency in dystrophin expression by generating a stop signal so the protein isn’t made, so by making the machinery ‘hope over’ this region, a smaller but functional dystrophin is made thereby restoring muscle mass and function. In this case, the therapy is administered intravenously and though not all the muscle cells are corrected, and the proportion varies, it is sufficient for a significant restoration to make a physiological difference. Many different cell types will be targeted but as only muscle cells produce dystrophin, it doesn’t really matter.
“In the case of CPS1, the therapy consists in substituting a nucleotide for the correct one, so this is a highly precise corrective change. As opposed to the two examples described which can be applied to a variety of mutations causing the same disease, the approach in the paper is applicable to the one specific nucleotide change or in other words this specific form of the disease. The paper explains that the patient has in fact two different mutations affecting each of the genes from their father and their mother, only one, the paternal mutation, is targeted. The approach is applicable to any disease caused by a single nucleotide change, however more often than not, diseases are caused by a variety of variants so perhaps more general strategies could be more effective than very precise ones. It will depend on how accurate the general vs specific options can be in terms of targeting the right cell types and DNA sequences.”
Comments provided by our friends at the Spanish SMC:
Dr Miguel Ángel Moreno-Mateos, Tenured scientist CSIC & PI, Andalusian Center for Developmental Biology, CSIC-Pablo de Olavide University, said:
“Since the emergence of CRISPR-Cas technology, progress has been made to develop a variety of tools that have the potential to contribute to the cure of many genetic diseases. This work demonstrates how, by detecting a specific congenital disease in the first days after birth, a robust protocol can be implemented with the ultimate goal of curing, at least partially, a patient with a particular genetic alteration that causes a rare disease. This protocol contains several steps, including i) characterization of the mutation or mutations that cause the disease, ii) design and comparison of the efficiency of various CRISPR-Cas approaches, which in this case are based on base editing and include various Cas proteins with different DNA recognition capabilities, iii) genetic and physiological safety testing of CRISPR-Cas reagents and lipid nanoparticle-based complexes both in vivo and in vitro, and iv) finally, targeted treatment in the patient’s liver in two doses seven months after birth, following approval by the relevant agencies.
“Although this has been a very specific approach, partly motivated by the devastating nature of the disease, it represents a milestone that demonstrates that these therapies are now a reality. In any case, as the article reports, the patient will be monitored for a long time to ensure his well-being and determine whether additional doses are needed to further improve the symptoms of the disease.
“On the other hand, given the risk involved and as the article itself acknowledges, the percentage of gene editing in the patient himself and any possible unwanted edits have not been evaluated, although they were determined in in vivo and in vitro studies. However, based on the physiological results, everything indicates that, at least so far, the therapy has been successful and has significantly improved the patient’s quality of life.
“In summary, this work is proof of principle for a rapid and effective protocol for CRISPR-Cas therapies for the cure of human diseases in general and so-called rare diseases in particular, opening the door to other similar treatments in the near future.”
Prof Marc Güell, coordinator of the Translational Synthetic Biology research group and full professor at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), said:
Is the study of good quality?
“It seems to me to be a study of the highest quality and totally extraordinary. In fact, I was deeply moved to read it. It reflects the great potential of gene editing for therapeutic purposes. The researchers and clinical team have done a very thoughtful design with all the precautionary steps that the situation allows: characterisation of mutations, design of editors to correct, measurement of efficiency and off-target [unwanted effects], as well as testing the reagents in cell and animal models. Extraordinary work in record time.”
How does this work fit with the existing evidence?
“Great proof of concept that it is not impossible to treat very rare diseases at the individual level.”
Are there any major limitations to be taken into account?
“We will have to characterise the precision gene editing process in the future (patient safety permitting). For now, it has been possible to measure the positive clinical effects, but for patient safety reasons it has not been possible to obtain liver tissue to characterise the efficiency of gene editing.
“It’s a great demonstration, but it’s also worth noting that this correction has been done in the liver; other tissues are much more difficult to gene edit, for now.”
What are the implications for the real world?
“Individualised, tailor-made therapies for a single patient are no longer a dream. Obviously, the process followed is of very high complexity and will require a lot of work to see how to scale it up and expand it to other cases. In any case, this work sheds a lot of light on the future.”
Prof Gemma Marfany, Professor of Genetics at the University of Barcelona (UB) and CIBERER member, said:
“This is the first case of a fully customised therapy, for a single baby (what is called ‘n of 1 therapy’), treated in vivo with a base-editing therapy for a very severe ultrarare disease. The disease causes the accumulation of ammonium, which is highly toxic to neurons and can lead to death in the first months of life. With the help of several leading biotech companies, a novel and very precise strategy has been designed to uniquely modify the mutated nucleotide in the gene to reverse the effect, and instead of a truncated protein, produce the complete protein. In addition, instead of using therapeutic viruses, lipid particles have been used to deliver the gene-editing system to the liver, in three doses within weeks of each other, avoiding an unwanted immune response and achieving remission of the most dangerous symptoms, reducing palliative medication and allowing incorporation of a normal diet.
“It is truly a unique case, a successful proof of concept, designed and applied in record time, in which researchers and clinicians have not skipped a single preclinical step, as they have generated human cellular models and also a humanised mouse model with the patient’s mutation to test the safety of the dose and the efficiency of the therapeutic strategy. In addition, they have had all the approvals from the relevant bioethics committees. It seems to me to be a scientific ‘miracle’ that has made it possible to cure a very rare severe disease, and provides knowledge to treat many other diseases.”
‘Patient-Specific In Vivo Gene Editing to Treat a Rare Genetic Disease’ by K. Musunuru et al. was published in The New England Journal of Medicineat 18:00 UK time on Thursday 15 May 2025.
DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2504747
Declared interests
Dr Miguel Ángel Moreno-Mateos: “I have collaborated with one of the authors of the paper, Benjamin P. Kleinstiver, with whom I published a research paper three years ago.”
Prof Gemma Marfany: no conflicts of interest
Dr Alena Pance: No conflicts.
For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.
From sunrise to sunset, the crew of the Kimball stands the watch, scanning the horizon for the cartel vessels that are smuggling illegal narcotics into the United States. The cutter and crew have the capability to quickly launch small-boats, helicopters, and surveillance drones in their mission to interdict drug traffickers.
Homeported in Honolulu, Hawaii, the Kimball is the 7th multi-mission National Security Cutter. With a range of 13,000 nautical miles, the advanced technologies of the cutter are used to support the Coast Guard’s mission to maintain the security of America’s maritime boundaries, engage in critical Law Enforcement operations, and provide long-range search and rescue capabilities.
Applying our unique authorities and capabilities, USCGC Kimball is at the forefront of the Coast Guard’s efforts to secure U.S. borders and maritime approaches.
USCG video by Petty Officer 3rd Class Austin Wiley
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
MINDELO, Cabo Verde, May 15, 2025/APO Group/ —
Cabo Verde has inaugurated the Mindelo Technology Park, completing the second campus of the TechPark CV project funded by the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org). The facility aims to establish the country as a digital hub connecting Africa with global markets.
The ceremony took place on May 6 with representatives from the government, industry, and development partners in attendance. The EUR 51.85 million TechPark CV project received EUR 45.5 million in financing from the African Development Bank Group, supporting both the Praia and Mindelo campuses.
In an address, Prime Minister José Ulisses Correia e Silva highlighted the transformative impact of the technology park: “Today we inaugurate this technological park hub with the conviction that we are already celebrating a special moment here. Yesterday was on the beach in Sao Vicente, a modern infrastructure important for the development of the digital economy. We want to position the digital economy as one of the key sectors for the diversification of Cabo Verde’s / Cavian economy, and increase the share of the digital economy in the GDP from around 7% to 25%.”
He further explained the goals of the project:“It is one of the sectors that create jobs and create quality jobs, simulates entrepreneurship and makes the capacity and talent of young people happen. We want to attract leading companies. We want to develop young digital entrepreneurship, startups and create well paid jobs.”
Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, emphasized the significance of this milestone: “These two events mark a turning point for the broader diversification of the economy of Cabo Verde and a landmark in its quest to become the digital gateway for Africa. These two technology park campuses will spark the spirit of digital innovation and spur the emergence of technology-enabled businesses that will propel the digital economy of Cabo Verde.”
Reflecting on the financial projections and potential impact, Dr. Adesina added, “The Technology Park will allow Cabo Verde to position itself to take advantage of the digital economy in Africa, which is estimated to add $180 billion to the GDP of Africa by 2025 and $712 billion by 2050. It will also allow Cabo Verde to benefit from the $16.5 trillion global digital economy by 2028.”
Carlos Monteiro, President of TechPark CV, shared his outlook on the project’s cultural and economic significance: “TechPark CV is the realisation of our ambition to transform Cape Verde into a technology hub for West Africa. Our unique mid-Atlantic location creates a gateway for investments and business opportunities linking Africa, Europe and the Americas.”
He added: “The spirit of morabeza lies at the heart of what we’re building – a welcoming environment where innovators from different backgrounds and cultures can collaborate and thrive together. Through this project, we’re not just building a digital hub; we’re fostering a community where technology drives economic growth and sustainable development for Cape Verde and our international partners.”
Project architect Fernando Mauricio Dos Santos, whose design balances technological needs with environmental considerations, noted: “The campus features a secure, basement-level data centre that ensures national security while harmonizing with the surrounding residential area. The U-shaped building’s orientation provides protection against northeast winds while maximizing southern light exposure, creating a comfortable and energy-efficient environment. A specialized technical box discreetly houses heavy refrigeration equipment, allowing the facility to blend advanced technology capabilities with Mindelo’s existing urban landscape.”
The Mindelo facility includes a data centre, a business incubation hub, and a training centre. The campus currently hosts ten companies from four countries and employs 125 young professionals, with 80% of its 25 office spaces occupied. The facility operates as a special digital economic zone, offering tax incentives to businesses specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fintech, and digital health solutions.
In closing remarks, Dr. Adesina offered words of encouragement to the entrepreneurs and businesses establishing themselves at the technology park: “You will make it! You will grow! You will thrive!! Just like out of Mindelo the young voice of Cesaria Evora grew until it took the world by storm, so will the Mindelo Technology Park rise to become a gateway for innovation that will resound across Africa and the world. So, keep moving on and moving up!”
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, May 15 (Xinhua) — China will vigorously and steadily push forward urban renewal projects, according to a policy document released Thursday.
The document, released by the General Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council, aims to make significant progress in the urban renewal campaign by 2030. It sets goals to improve safety conditions, enhance service efficiency, enhance living environments, develop business models and protect cultural heritage.
It is noted that efforts should focus on strengthening and renovating existing buildings, including in older residential areas, while optimizing infrastructure such as parking, charging stations, fire protection and communications.
According to the document, the renewal and reconstruction of old commercial areas, industrial zones and villages within the city will be promoted. It is supposed to create multi-level and comprehensive networks of public services to meet the everyday needs of the population.
The directive emphasizes the need for accelerated construction and reconstruction of gas, water, drainage, sewer, underground heating communications and utility tunnels, as well as active construction of public fire-fighting facilities and improvement of transport infrastructure.
In addition, requirements have been formulated for the restoration of urban ecosystems and the protection of the historical and cultural heritage of cities.
The document provides for the creation of a mechanism for implementing urban renewal programs, improving land use policies, and developing a housing safety management system throughout the entire life cycle. –0–
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Moscow, May 15 (Xinhua) — The Russian delegation views the talks with Ukraine as a continuation of the peace process in Istanbul, which was interrupted in 2022, Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian delegation at the talks with Ukraine, said on Thursday.
“We view these negotiations as a continuation of the peace process in Istanbul, which, unfortunately, was interrupted by the Ukrainian side three years ago. Our official delegation was approved by the presidential decree, and it has all the necessary competencies and powers to conduct negotiations,” V. Medinsky said.
“The delegation is set on a constructive mood, on finding possible solutions and points of contact. The task of direct negotiations with the Ukrainian side is to sooner or later reach the establishment of long-term peace, eliminating the basic root causes of the conflict,” the head of the Russian delegation emphasized.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking to journalists in the Kremlin on the night of May 11, proposed that the Ukrainian side resume direct negotiations, interrupted in 2022, without preconditions. It was proposed to begin the dialogue on May 15 in Istanbul. Later on May 11, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed to V. Putin on the social network X to hold a personal meeting in Turkey on May 15 to resolve the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict. He added that Ukraine also expects a full and long-term ceasefire starting on May 12. On Wednesday, V. Putin approved the composition of the Russian delegation for negotiations with Ukraine, headed by Russian presidential aide V. Medinsky. –0–
WASHINGTON – During a hearing on unleashing the great American industrial comeback, U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) discussed how Washington can drive investment into small manufacturers.
She spoke with Iowan John Mickelson on how Washington can support the flow of private capital to small businesses across the country to empower manufacturers to build and grow right here in America.
Click here to watch Chair Ernst’s questioning.
Click here to download photos from the hearing.
Ernst started off by highlighting success stories of reshoring manufacturing and creating good-paying jobs before emphasizing the important role of Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs) in bolstering American businesses critical to our economic and national security.
Mickelson emphasized how the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) programs have ensured that capital flows to small manufacturers to allow them to invest in new equipment, hire more employees, and grow their business.
Hearing witness Brian Riley, whose small business builds bikes right here in the United States, explained how Ernst’s Made in America Manufacturing Act would help small manufacturers grow.
WASHINGTON – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) in supporting a resolution to thank the brave men and women who keep us safe.
“Our police officers in Iowa are heroes who serve our communities with courage and dedication,” said Senator Ernst. “Thank you to every single officer who puts their life on the line to keep Iowans safe. This week – and every week – I’m proud to back the blue and honor the selfless men and women who work tirelessly to protect and serve our local communities.”
Download more photos of Senator Ernst and law enforcement here.
Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) this week applauded the unanimous passage of a resolution she supported that designates May 12-17 as National Police Week. The National Police Week resolution reiterates the Senate’s unwavering support for law enforcement officers across the United States.
“Our law enforcement officers in West Virginia and across the country wake up every day and choose to protect and serve our communities first and foremost—even if it means putting themselves in harm’s way. During National Police Week, I’m proud to join my Senate colleagues in honoring their heroism and reaffirming my steadfast support for these brave men and women,” Senator Capito said.
BACKGROUND:
Every year, for more than six decades, Congress has passed a resolution in honor of law enforcement officers. During National Police Week, Americans pay special tribute to the service and sacrifice of courageous officers and their families, especially our nation’s fallen heroes.
Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined POLITICO’s Security Summit to discuss defense spending, retaining the Department of Defense’s (DOD) access to wireless frequencies in the lower 3 gigahertz (GHz) and key portions of the 7/8 GHz spectrum bands, and how the Trump administration could not complete its Golden Dome Missile Defense Shield should the DOD be forced to vacate spectrum frequencies.
Click here to watch the full conversation.
Fischer on Supporting a Strong Defense Budget:
“On the Senate Armed Services Committee, for the last 3 years of the previous administration, President Biden sent us a budget, and in a bipartisan way in the Senate we’ve, for the most part, a strong majority of the Committee agreed that it was not enough.”
“I am not happy with the way OMB is trying to turn this. President Trump has said he wants peace through strength. In order to have peace through strength, we have to continue to have a defense budget that meets the needs of our military, of our military members, and to meet those growing threats that we see in this world.”
“There are a number of us that would like to see a much more robust budget.”
Fischer on DOD Retaining Spectrum Access:
“It’s extremely important for the Department of Defense to maintain their ownership and access of the lower 3 but also parts of 7 and 8 [GHz].”
Fischer on House Spectrum Provisions in Reconciliation:
“I think it needed to go much further, much further. I personally cannot accept it as it came out of the E&C Committee.”
“I’m also on the Commerce Committee, and that Committee is looking at spectrum as well in having a pipeline established and also a spectrum auction.”
“In the E&C bill, it put the pipeline in and somewhat defined it for the lower three. But there’s no definition for auction authority for the FCC, so they could go outside of that since they have the authority and be able to auction other bands, whether it’s the lower three or seven – eight [GHz].”
“I believe in the Senate, we must be able to have complete definitions on what bands DOD needs. And this is again, for a number of radars, a number of sensors, and a number of assets I can’t tell you about, how important that is.”
“When it comes to the idea that this is going to be the silver bullet for reconciliation, I disagree with that as well.”
Fischer on Golden Dome Execution:
“We’ve been working closely with the White House, and they have been very supportive working closely with the Department of Defense. And every time a military commander is asked about Golden Dome and spectrum, the need for spectrum, they will bluntly say … it [Golden Dome] will not happen if the Department loses access to the spectrum they have.”
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced legislation to give relief to those who have been victims of fraud, scams, thefts, accidents, and other personal casualty losses. The Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act reinstates the tax deduction for personal casualty and theft losses and ensures victims of scams, robberies, storms, and fires do not have to pay taxes on stolen assets and further wipe out their hard-earned savings and financial security.
“When Wisconsinites fall victim to a fraud or scam, the last thing they should have to worry about is being slapped with an unexpected tax bill once tax season rolls around,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to work with my Republican and Democratic colleagues to introduce this commonsense bill to help make sure if someone is down and out, they have one less thing to worry about than being hit with a tax bill.”
“As hurricane season is around the corner, I will continue supporting policies that protect Floridians from scammers and fraudsters,” said Senator Moody. “My Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act will provide commonsense tax relief for victims, often seniors, who have been financially devastated by scams, crimes or destruction from disasters. This legislation will help folks get back on their feet when they experience hardship. When I was Attorney General of Florida, I made sure to fight for Floridians who fell victim to scams, and I will continue bringing this fight to D.C. so that folks have the protections they need.”
“It’s outrageous that folks scammed out of their life’s savings are hit with large tax bills. I’m proud to introduce this bill to reinstate this important tax deduction to provide crucial financial relief to those victimized by scams and theft,” said Senator Welch. “Vermont experienced catastrophic floods in July of 2023 and 2024. We know firsthand that victims of floods, storms, and fires go through so much—the last thing they should worry about is being penalized for a natural disaster.”
Companion legislation will be introduced in the U.S. House by Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-MA-08) and Greg Steube (R-FL-17).
“Americans who fall prey to scams and rip-offs deserve relief, not massive tax bills from the IRS,” said Rep. Raskin. “Our bipartisan legislation will help millions of Americans, including one of my constituents who was defrauded out of her entire retirement savings and then hit with an enormous tax penalty. I am proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the House and the Senate to bring a measure of justice to victims of scams, thefts and disasters.”
Until 2018, the federal government allowed victims of crimes and unexpected, uninsurable disasters to deduct these losses from their taxes with a provision called the Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction. Today, scam victims and homeowners are on the hook for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal taxes unless their misfortunes meet a narrow set of criteria.
The growing sophistication of cybercriminal networks has led to a rapid proliferation in fraud for the past five years. In 2024 alone, American taxpayers reported $16.6 billion in cyber fraud to the FBI. The average victim of elder fraud lost $83,000. Natural disasters are also on the rise during a period of increasing insurance premiums and unexpected claim denials.
Senator Baldwin introduced this legislation last year after hearing the story of one Wisconsin woman who was scammed out of her entire savings, investments, and 401(k), more than $200,000 in total, and was forced to pay more than $15,000 in taxes.
Without a reinstatement of the casualty and theft loss deduction, Americans who are victims of theft and non-federally declared disasters will continue to face hefty federal tax bills that the IRS is obligated to enforce.
The Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act:
Reinstates the tax deduction for personal casualty loss and provides retroactive coverage to taxpayers who suffered losses in the years that followed.
Ensures that victims who suffered losses since 2017 are able to file an amended tax return accounting for their personal casualty loss.
“The Elder Justice Coalition commends Senators Baldwin, Moody and Welch for introducing the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act,” said Bob Blancato, National Coordinator of the Elder Justice Coalition. “It is unconscionable that older scam victims who lose hundreds of thousands of dollars face the compounded misery of having to pay taxes on the money lost. Scams are rampant in this nation and serve to exploit the most vulnerable older adults. We hope Senator Baldwin’s bill can be made part of a future tax package. Tax relief for scam victims is tax fairness.”
“The Financial Services Institute (FSI) is proud to support the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act,” said Dale Brown, President & CEO of Financial Services Institute. “Owing taxes on stolen retirement funds makes an already painful situation worse. Main Street Americans cannot afford to lose their life savings, which they rely upon for a financially secure retirement. This bill will provide some relief to victims and mitigate damages as they work with their trusted financial advisor to recover losses and regain their financial footing.”
“With widespread financial fraud and scams impacting many Americans’ retirement security and financial livelihoods, CFP Board enthusiastically supports this critical piece of legislation that would lessen the impact of financial loss. We look forward to seeing this bill get to the finish line,” said Erin Koeppel, Managing Director of Government Relations and Public Policy Counsel at CFP Board.
“Victims of disasters and theft are taken advantage of far too often,” said Shannon McGahn, EVP & Chief Advocacy Officer for the National Association of REALTORS®. The National Association of REALTORS® is grateful to Representatives Steube and Raskin, along with Senators Moody and Baldwin, for reintroducing the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act, bipartisan legislation to restore the Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction. This deduction, if reinstated, would ensure that homeowners—especially seniors—who fall victim to uninsurable and unexpected disasters or theft can deduct their losses from their federal taxes. The legislation would protect homeowners from becoming victims again after a disaster, and NAR applauds Congress for putting this legislation forward again.
“For many years, the AICPA has urged Congress to enact timely, uniform and permanent tax legislation, rather than providing delayed tax relief through separate individual bills following each disaster,” said Melanie Lauridsen, Vice President of Tax Policy and Advocacy, American Institute of CPAs. “Disasters regularly affect taxpayers at all times of the year. However, our current system does not provide fair and reliable tax relief for victims of casualties and thefts. We commend Representatives Steube and Raskin and Senators Moody and Baldwin on introducing legislation that will finally right this wrong, and we look forward to working with them to bring this long overdue relief to American taxpayers.”
The legislation is endorsed by the AARP, The Elder Justice Coalition, the National Association of Consumer Advocates, AICPA-CIMA, National Association of Enrolled Agents, National Association of Realtors, American Land Title Association, CFP Board, Investment Adviser Association, Financial Services Institute, Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, Association of Mature American Citizens, National Association of Government Defined Contribution Administrators, Operation Shamrock, SPARK Institute.
A one-pager on this legislation is available here. Full text of the bill is available here.
Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)
Today, the Justice Department hosted the 32nd Annual Federal Interagency Holocaust Remembrance program. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon delivered remarks, followed by a discussion with Eugene Bergman, a Holocaust survivor, that was moderated by Ellen Germain, Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues at the Department of State.