BROWNSVILLE, Texas — A Georgia woman was sentenced for smuggling several firearms and magazines hidden in a vehicle’s gas tank following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley.
Mirna Luna, 38, was sentenced July 9 by U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. to a 46-month term of imprisonment to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the seriousness of trafficking of firearms. Luna pleaded guilty April 1.
“Firearms trafficking poses a significant threat to public safety and national security,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley Deputy Special Agent in Charge Mark Lippa. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime and our commitment to preventing illegal weapons from reaching the hands of criminals and foreign terrorist organizations. HSI will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle such smuggling operations.”
According to court documents, Luna traveled from her Canton, Georgia, residence Dec. 15, 2024, and attempted to cross at the Brownsville/Matamoros Port of Entry into Mexico. Once there, authorities had referred her to secondary inspection where they discovered 17 firearms and 27 magazines hidden in the gas tank of the Nissan car she was driving. Luna claimed ownership of the car and admitted she is the only person who drives it. She does not have a license to export firearms and has not applied for one.
She will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jose Esquivel and Ana Cano from the Southern District of Texas prosecuted the case.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brenton Griffin, Casual Lecturer and Tutor in History, Indigenous Studies, and Politics, Flinders University
Hulu
Reality TV series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives follows a number of social media influencers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who rose to prominence through social media, and particularly TikTok.
The show is based in Utah, United States, where the church has its headquarters. But it stands in stark contrast with the stereotypical perception of Mormons – and especially Mormon women – the church has promoted for more than a century.
Through its exploration of traditionally “taboo” topics such as sex, marital issues, mental illness and sexual abuse, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives clashes against the church’s carefully curated public image.
Historical pariahs
Historically, the church’s practice of polygamy placed it at odds with the mainstream sexual and familial norms of 19th century America.
Polygamy had been practised by Mormons since at least the 1830s, and was officially announced as permissible by the church in 1852. The church now acknowledges its founder, Joseph Smith, married almost 40 women and teenage girls before his death in 1844.
When Mormon missionaries began to proselytise throughout the world, newspapers criticised the practice, and Mormons were framed as sexual deviants and racialised “pariahs”. In other words, Mormons were presented as being racially different to the rest of white American society. This claim was even supported by doctors at the time.
To Mormons, however, polygamy was a reintroduction of the correct form of marriage, and they pointed to biblical prophets to justify it.
In 1862, the US congress passed a series of laws aimed at abolishing polygamy. This resulted in the arrest of church leaders and the confiscation of church-owned funds and properties in Utah.
Then, in the 1870s, exposés written by former Mormons (particularly women) decried polygamy as evil, increasing hostility against Mormon leaders.
Ann Eliza Webb Young, ex-wife of Mormon prophet Brigham Young, wrote the exposé ‘Wife No. 19, Or The Story of Life in Bondage’. Internet Archive Open Library
In 1890, church leader Wilford Woodruff announced in a revelation known as the Manifesto that polygamy would cease. The Manifesto was accepted by most Mormons as the government’s harassment increased. However, breakaway groups called “fundamentalists” continued the practice.
Today, Mormon scriptures continue to state polygamy is the correct form of marriage, and will exist in the afterlife.
The stereotypical Mormon
Since the ending of polygamy, the church has sought to establish itself as a moral equal to mainstream Christian norms, especially sexual norms. In 1995, it released a document titled Family: A Proclamation to the World which emphasised the view that heterosexual marriage and strict gender roles are divinely ordained.
The 1995 official Mormon document, ‘The Family: A Proclamation to the World’. BYU Scholar Arcive
In doing so, it has promoted unique doctrines and practices, such as sexual abstinence before marriage, and a particular health code called the Word of Wisdom which bars alcohol, tea, coffee and tobacco.
These doctrines, and existing stereotypes of Mormons, are examined in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.
Before the show was released, the church published a general statement saying media portrayals of Mormons “often rely on sensationalism and inaccuracies that do not fairly and fully reflect the lives of our Church members”. It has yet to directly comment on the show.
Nonetheless, the representation of Mormons in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is problematic for the church, because it transgresses its highly curated image of Mormonism.
As the influencers put it, there is a desire to push back against stereotypes around Mormonism, and particularly Mormon women. These stereotypes have been crystallised by the church to combat perceptions of Mormons as sexually abhorrent, due to past practices of polygamy.
There is also a tongue-in-cheek acknowledgement that while the church prohibits stimulants such as tea, coffee and alcohol, Mormons within Utah and surrounds still consume other, somewhat surprising, substances. For instance, the use of ketamine in therapy is allowed when administered by a healthcare professional.
The series also engages with topics considered taboo in the church, such as marital issues, mental health struggles and consensual sex. Even if these are being played up by the cast or producers, such discussions are lacking in broader Mormon circles.
Importantly, there are admissions by some cast members, including one of the husbands, of being sexually abused as children. According to the cast members themselves, these disclosures are intended to empower viewers who may have had similar experiences.
This is a powerful critique, because the Mormon church has come under intense scrutiny for its failure to properly respond to child sexual assault, both in the US and globally.
The next steps
The show is having a marked impact on perceptions of Mormonism, despite the church’s stance it doesn’t represent the beliefs and lifestyle of Mormons more broadly.
For many viewers, it might be their introduction to the religion. This is concerning for adherents, and particularly for the church’s leadership.
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives reunion special aired earlier this month. Hulu
There are internal tools the church could use against the show’s cast members, such as disciplinary councils or excommunication. But these would be ineffective since only about half the members consider themselves “faithful” Mormons.
It’s interesting the church has yet to condemn the show. Perhaps maintaining an image of reluctant acceptance is more important, as in recent years the church has been criticised for overreach against its own members.
In this case, the show would be an uncomfortable reality the church will just have to live with. Either way, the damage to the stereotypical Mormon image is done.
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is available to stream on Disney+.
Brenton Griffin was raised as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but is no longer a practising member of the church. His research is focused on the religion’s place in Australian and New Zealand popular culture, politics, and society from the 19th century to present.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Hickson, Lecturer in Economics and Director, Business Taught Masters Programme, University of Canterbury
Defence spending is like insurance – you have to pay for it but you hope you never have to use it. And the higher the risk you face, the higher your premium will be.
New Zealand has now committed to paying those higher defence insurance premiums. The government’s 2025 Defence Capability Plan, released in April, includes NZ$9 billion in extra funding over the next four years. That’s a sizable increase on a current annual budget of just under $5 billion.
New Zealand is not alone, of course. Driven by geopolitical tensions and US President Donald Trump’s demand that other countries spend a higher proportion of their GDP on defence, global military spending rose for the tenth year in a row to US$2,718 billion in 2024, with huge increases in Europe and the Middle East.
How much “insurance” a country should buy in the form of defence spending will vary. Too little, and it cannot respond when it needs to; too much, and resources are needlessly wasted. For New Zealand, it is a matter of finding the right balance.
Economically, however, defence spending is more complicated than simply buying weapons and recruiting more personnel. There can be benefits beyond basic security considerations.
One involves what economists call “technology spillovers”. Past innovations developed for military use – such as jet engines, GPS and the internet – often found important civilian applications.
The challenge is to design defence investments to deliberately build skills and technologies with wider economic benefit: advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity or clean tech. New Zealand’s defence plan includes this kind of spending, including
between $100 million and 300 million on cybersecurity.
On the other hand, promises of new jobs from large projects are often overstated, with New Zealand’s best known example being the “Think Big” policy of the 1970s. Rather, there can be job substitution as people move from civilian roles into military ones.
Guns and butter
In the end, of course, increased defence spending must be funded – through higher taxes, more debt or reduced spending on other items. Higher GDP growth would make the expenditure more affordable, but even then we face the same tradeoffs. It’s not possible to have lower taxes and debt as well as higher government spending.
Most of the expenditure set out in the defence plan will be on equipment. But any increase in the output of the defence industry will likely crowd out other consumer and investment goods.
While clearly an extreme example, one only has to look at how defence spending rose during WWII. The increase in military output came at the expense of other goods, leading to shortages and rationing.
New Zealand doesn’t face that scale of change, but there is still likely to be some shift in production from “butter to guns”. We might also see a shift in how businesses spend their research and development money, towards military and away from civilian applications.
New Zealand does not have a large defence industry and will need to import much of the new equipment. This implies a need for higher exports to pay for those imports, meaning fewer goods for New Zealanders to consume.
Costs and benefits
Most countries are understandably reluctant to cut spending on health, education and other things voters care about in order to boost defence. Hence, governments can be tempted to label new expenditures as “defence” when it could otherwise be classified as “updated infrastructure”.
Spending on dual-purpose capital works is likely to increase, therefore, with projects earmarked for defence more likely to be funded. The New Zealand defence plan already allows for housing, airfield and port facilities that can all have multiple uses.
There are also ethical considerations. Many consumers prefer not to invest in the arms trade, but components used in weapons manufacture often have non-military uses as well.
Similarly, many consumer items, such as phones, vehicles and food, can be purchased by the military but clearly have non-military uses. We may see more of the output of companies that also produce non-military items directed into defence.
All of this can make it difficult to classify a company as a defence contractor, and may be challenging for large investors (such as superannuation funds) with ethical investment policies. At the same time, the cost of not investing in defence firms might also rise as demand for their products or services increases and they become better investments.
Like people in general, countries prefer lower insurance premiums. But when risks increase, so too does the price of insurance. Voters will disagree on how much should be spent on defence, but that is largely a political question.
What economics teaches us, however, is that if you want to reduce your insurance premium, then reduce your risk. And that is something easier said than done.
Stephen Hickson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicolas Flament, Associate Professor and ARC Future Fellow, Environmental Futures, School of Science, University of Wollongong
But what fuels a giant eruption, and how does it make its way to the surface from deep within the planet?
In a new study published in Communications Earth and Environment, we show that columns of hot rock, which rise some 3,000 kilometres through Earth’s mantle and cause giant eruptions, are connected to continent-sized source regions we call BLOBS.
Hidden blobs within Earth
BLOBS are hot regions at the bottom of Earth’s mantle (between about 2,000km and 3,000km in depth) which might be composed of different material compared with the surrounding mantle rocks.
Scientists have long known about these two hot regions under the Pacific Ocean and Africa. Geologist David Evans from Yale University suggested the acronym BLOBS, which stands for Big LOwer-mantle Basal Structures.
These BLOBS have possibly existed for hundreds of millions of years. It is unclear whether they’re stationary or if they move around as part of mantle motion (called convection).
Mantle plumes were the implicit link in previous studies relating BLOBS to giant volcanic eruptions. Their shape is a bit like a lollipop: the “stick” is the plume tail and the “candy” is the plume head.
Connection between the deep mantle and Earth’s surface showing the relationship between BLOBS, mantle plumes and giant volcanic eruptions – not drawn to scale.
Mantle plumes rise very slowly through the mantle because they transport hot solid rock, not melt or lava. At lower pressures in the uppermost 200km of Earth’s mantle, the solid rock melts, leading to eruptions.
A long-sought relationship
In our new study, we simulated mantle convection from 1 billion years ago and found that mantle plumes rise from moving BLOBS and can sometimes be gently tilted.
Giant volcanic eruptions can be identified by the volume of volcanic rocks preserved at Earth’s surface. The ocean floor preserves detailed fingerprints of mantle plumes for the past 120 million years or so (there is not much seafloor older than that).
We used statistics to show that the locations of past giant volcanic eruptions are significantly related to the mantle plumes predicted by our models. This is encouraging, as it suggests that the simulations predict mantle plumes in places and at times generally consistent with the geologic record.
Model BLOBS, plume tails, and giant volcanic eruptions under the African hemisphere from 300 million years ago. BLOBS are coloured in dark red and plume tails are coloured by depth in yellow to orange tones, with warmer colours at greater depths. At the surface, the outlines of continental blocks are shown in transparent grey, and giant volcanic eruption locations are shown as green triangles.
Are BLOBS fixed or mobile?
We showed that the considered eruption locations fall either onto or close to the moving BLOBS predicted by our models. Eruption locations slightly outside moving BLOBS could be explained by plume tilting.
We represented fixed BLOBS with 3D images of Earth’s interior, created using seismic waves from distant earthquakes (a technique called seismic tomography). One out of the four seismic tomographic models that we considered matched the locations of past giant volcanic eruptions, implying that the fixed BLOBS scenario cannot be ruled out for geologically recent times – the past 300 million years.
One of the next steps for this research is to explore the chemical nature of BLOBS and plume conduits. We can do so with simulations that track the evolution of their composition.
Our results suggest the deep Earth is dynamic. BLOBS, which are some 2,000km below Earth’s surface, move hundreds of kilometres over time, and are connected to Earth’s surface by mantle plumes that create giant eruptions.
To take a step back and keep things in perspective: while deep Earth motions are significant over tens of millions of years, they are generally in the order of 1 centimetre per year. This means BLOBS shift at roughly the rate at which human hair grows.
Outcrops of shocked rocks from the Miralga impact structure.Aaron Cavosie
Ever been late because you misread a clock? Sometimes, the “clocks” geologists use to date events can also be misread. Unravelling Earth’s 4.5-billion-year history with rocks is tricky business.
Case in point: the discovery of an ancient meteorite impact crater was recently reported in the remote Pilbara region of Western Australia. The original study, by a different group, made headlines with the claim the crater formed 3.5 billion years ago. If true, it would be Earth’s oldest by far.
As it turns out, we’d also been investigating the same site. Our results are published in Science Advances today. While we agree that this is the site of an ancient meteorite impact, we have reached different conclusions about its age, size and significance.
Let’s consider the claims made about this fascinating crater.
One impact crater, two versions of events
Planetary scientists search for ancient impacts to learn about Earth’s early formation. So far, nobody has found an impact crater older than the 2.23-billion-year-old Yarrabubba structure, also in Australia. (Some of the authors from both 2025 Pilbara studies were coauthors on the 2020 Yarrabubba study.)
The new contender is located in an area called North Pole Dome. Despite the name, this isn’t where Santa lives. It’s an arid, hot, ochre-stained landscape.
The sun sets on the arid landscape of North Pole Dome in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Alec Brenner
The first report on the new crater claimed it formed 3.5 billion years ago, and was more than 100 kilometres in diameter. It was proposed that such a large impact might have played a role in forming continental crust in the Pilbara. More speculatively, the researchers also suggested it may have influenced early life.
Our study concludes the impact actually happened much later, sometime after 2.7 billion years ago. This is at least 800 million years younger than the earlier estimate (and we think it’s probably even younger; more on that in a moment).
We also determined the crater was much smaller – about 16km in diameter. In our view, this impact was too young and too small to have influenced continent formation or early life.
So how could two studies arrive at such different findings?
Subtle clues of an impact
The originally circular crater is deeply eroded, leaving only subtle clues on the landscape. However, among the rust-coloured basalts are unique telltale signs of meteorite impact: shatter cones.
Outcrop photo of shatter cones in basalt at the Miralga impact structure. The black pen cap is 5cm long. Alec Brenner
Shatter cones are distinctive fossilised imprints of shock waves that have passed through rocks. Their unique conical shapes form under brief but immense pressure where a meteorite strikes Earth.
Both studies found shatter cones, and agree the site is an ancient impact.
This new crater also needed a name. We consulted the local Aboriginal people, the Nyamal, who shared the traditional name for this place and its people: Miralga. The “Miralga impact structure” name recognises this heritage.
Determining the timing of the impact
The impact age was estimated by field observations, as neither study found material likely to yield an impact age by radiometric dating – a method that uses measurements of radioactive isotopes.
Both studies applied a geological principle called the law of superposition. This states that rock layers get deposited one on top of another over time, so rocks on top are younger than those below.
Example of the law of superposition, known as Hutton’s unconformity, at Siccar Point Scotland. The gently dipping layered rocks at the top left were deposited onto – and are therefore younger than – the nearly vertical layered rocks at the bottom right. Anne Burgess/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA
The first group found shatter cones within and below a sedimentary layer known to have been deposited 3.47 billion years ago, but no shatter cones in younger rocks above this layer. This meant the impact occurred during deposition of the sedimentary layer.
Their observation seemed to be a “smoking gun” for an impact 3.47 billion years ago.
As it turns out, there was more to the story.
Our investigation found shatter cones in the same 3.47 billion-year-old rocks, but also in younger overlying rocks, including lavas known to have erupted 2.77 billion years ago.
Outcrop of shatter cones in 2.77-billion-year-old basalt at the Miralga impact structure. These lavas are the youngest rocks in the area we found to have shatter cones. They have distinctive holes (vesicles) representing trapped gas bubbles. The pen is 15cm long. Aaron Cavosie
The impact had to occur after the formation of the youngest rocks that contained shatter cones, meaning sometime after the 2.77-billion-year-old lavas.
At the moment, we don’t know precisely how young the crater is. We can only constrain the impact to have occurred between 2.7 billion and 400 million years ago. We’re working on dating the impact by isotopic methods, but these results aren’t yet in.
Smaller than originally thought
We made the first map showing where shatter cones are found. There are many hundreds over an area 6km across. From this map and their orientations, we calculate the original crater was about 16km in diameter.
A 16km crater is a far cry from the original estimate of more than 100km. It’s too small to have influenced the formation of continents or life. By the time of the impact, the Pilbara was already quite old.
Artist’s depiction looking northwest across the Pilbara, over the 16km-wide Miralga crater. The crater is shown 3km above the modern land surface to account for the deep erosion that has since erased it. The crater size is based on the distribution of shatter cones (inset). The cones point up and back towards the original ‘ground zero’ of the impact. Maps produced using Google Earth Studio. Alec Brenner
A new connection to Mars
Science is a self-policing sport. Claims of discovery are based on data available at the time, but they often require modification based on new data or observations.
While it’s not the world’s oldest, the Miralga impact is scientifically unique, as craters formed in basalt are rare. Most basalts there formed 3.47 billion years ago, making them the oldest shocked target rocks known.
Prior to impact, these ancient basalts had been chemically altered by seawater. Sedimentary rocks nearby also contain the earliest well-established fossils on Earth. Such rocks likely covered much of early Earth and Mars.
This makes the Miralga impact structure a playground for planetary scientists studying the cratered surface (and maybe early life) of Mars. It’s an easily accessible proving ground for Mars exploration instruments and imagery, right here on Earth.
Aaron J. Cavosie receives or has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the US National Science Foundation, and NASA.
Alec Brenner does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL)
Donalds Leads Effort To Codify President Trump’s America First Energy Agenda Into Law
Washington, June 4, 2025
WASHINGTON – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has introduced legislation to codify President Trump’s four, May 23, 2025, executive orders regarding the production and national security implications of domestic nuclear energy.
H.R. 3667 – “The Strengthening American Nuclear Energy (SANE) Act” is the 15th piece of legislation introduced by Congressman Donalds during the 119th Congress and specifically codifies following executive orders: (1) Deploying Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technologies for National Security; (2) Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; (3) Reforming Nuclear Reactor Testing at the Department of Energy; and (4) Reinvigorating the Nuclear Industrial Base.
“In November, the American people granted us an unprecedented mandate to implement President Trump’s America First Agenda,” said Congressman Donalds (R-FL). “Now more than ever, it’s up to Congress to hold up our end of the bargain. Energy security is national security and it’s imperative that our nation re-asserts our dominance in the nuclear space.”
Background:
Statements in Support of the Executive Orders:
“This is a huge day for the nuclear industry. Mark this day on your calendar,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum at the signing of the executive orders. “This is going to turn the clock back on over 50 years of overregulation of an industry. American greatness has always come from innovation and we were very innovative. We led post-WWII in all things nuclear, but then, we’ve been stagnated. We choked it with overregulation. Today, Will is going to walk us through a series of four executive orders, each of these help attack separate issues that have held back this industry…but also a big change.”
“Energy security is national security. If we don’t have reliable energy for our basing, for our troops, whether forward-deployed or domestically, we’re vulnerable,” said Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth at the signing of the executive orders. “So by having small modular nuclear capabilities, which are rapidly being fielded, that we can use on our bases here and around the world, we’re creating an environment where if things happen elsewhere, the military can be relied-upon…Also, we’re including artificial intelligence in everything we do. If we don’t, we’re not fast enough, we’re not keeping up with adversaries. You need the energy to fuel it, nuclear is a huge part of that, modular or otherwise. So, we’re going to have the lights-on, and AI operating when others do not, faster than everybody else because of nuclear capabilities, so this is a big game change for us as well.”
More:
Read legislative text of H.R. 3667 HERE.
See Congress.gov bill profile of H.R. 3667 HERE.
Watch explanation of first executive order HERE.
Watch explanation of second executive order HERE.
Watch explanation of third executive order HERE.
Watch explanation of fourth executive order HERE.
Watch Sec. Burgum’s remarks at signing ceremony HERE.
Watch Sec. Hegseth’s remarks at signing ceremony HERE.
See of H.R. 3667 social media summary graphics BELOW:
Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for World Youth Skills Day, observed on 15 July:
On this World Youth Skills Day, we recognize that skills not just tools — they are engines of empowerment and opportunity.
From traditional knowledge to creative arts to community leadership, a diverse range of skills enable young people to shape their futures and build more inclusive, peaceful and sustainable societies.
This year’s theme rightly highlights the growing importance of digital and artificial intelligence (AI) skills.
From basic digital literacy to advanced data science, these capabilities are ever more vital for young people to thrive in today’s world — and lead in tomorrow’s.
But, opportunity must be universal. We must close the digital divide — so that every young person — regardless of gender, geography or background — can reach their full potential.
Digital education must be human-centred, nurturing not only technical ability, but also creativity, critical thinking and compassion.
And as AI reshapes our world, young people must be seen not just as learners — but as co-creators of a fairer digital future.
Let’s do our part to equip every young person with the skills for the digital age.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Aaron Bean Florida (4th District)
WASHINGTON—The 60 Plus American Association of Senior Citizens, a leading national advocate for older Americans, honored U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) with the prestigious Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award in recognition of his steadfast commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of senior citizens in Northeast Florida and across the nation.
“I’m honored to receive the Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award. In Washington, I’m working every day to ensure our incredible Northeast Florida seniors receive the care, support, and respect they’ve earned,” said Congressman Bean. “That means defending Medicare and Social Security, strengthening retirement security, and fighting for policies that protect seniors’ dignity and peace of mind. They’ve given so much to the Free State of Florida—and I owe it to them to deliver.”
BACKGROUND
The Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award celebrates lawmakers who champion policies that safeguard Social Security and Medicare, fight inflation, reduce the tax burden on seniors, and expand access to quality health care and retirement security.
As part of his continued advocacy, Congressman Bean proudly voted to advance a $6,000 tax deduction included in the One Big Beautiful Bill, aimed at improving the financial stability for older Americans. This provision represents a key step in helping seniors keep more of their hard-earned money and live with dignity in their retirement years.
Congressman Bean was presented the award during a ceremony in Washington, D.C., by 60 Plus Founder and Chairman Jim Martin and President Saul Anuzis.
Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
Schumer Says The GOP Plan To Gut Funding Would Eliminate $45+ Million From Over A Dozen NY Public TV & Radio Stations That Provide Critical Services Like Emergency Weather Alerts, Educational Content For Children, Essential Coverage Of Rural Areas, That Otherwise Wouldn’t Exist & More
Senate Republicans Are Preparing For A Vote On Trump’s Request To Claw Back Funding For The Corporation For Public Broadcasting– And Without It Locally-Owned PBS TV & NPR Stations In Every Region Of The State Could Face Major Cuts To Community Programs & Layoffs
Schumer: We Must Protect NY’s Public TV & Radio
As the Senate prepares to vote on Trump’s plan to claw back over $1 billion in federal funding for America’s public radio and television stations, which could devastate communities across Upstate NY, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today demanded the GOP block cuts that would hurt children, rural areas, and emergency preparedness in every corner of New York.
Schumer said that the GOP plan to strip funding from America’s public broadcasting would decimate funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which supports more than 1,500 locally-owned public radio and television stations including dozens in New York State. The senator broke down the impact of these cuts for Upstate NY public news outlets that receive funding from the CPB and vowed to lead the fight in the Senate against these alarming cuts.
“Our public TV and radio stations are the glue that keep so many of our communities connected & informed across Upstate NY and targeting them for radical funding cuts hurts all of Upstate. PBS and NPR and others are more than stations, they are a public service networks providing life-saving emergency alerts, educational content to children, and so much more at no cost. But right now, the GOP’s devastating proposal to claw back federal funding for our public TV and radio stations could devastate these vital services ripping away millions leading to layoffs and cuts to beloved programs,” said Senator Schumer. “Like so many New Yorkers. my daughters grew up watching Sesame Street. I know the tremendous value public media provides. Rescinding this funding would take away the programming people love and isolate Upstate NY’s rural communities, jeopardizing their access to information they rely on every day. I will be leading the fight to save public media in the Senate and we need all New Yorkers and Americans to make their voices heard to protect this essential public service.”
Funds for public broadcasting supports educational initiatives, rural areas, and disaster preparedness efforts across New York State. New York’s public TV and radio stations send emergency alerts during natural disasters, develop educational content, license music from local artists, and more. These services are critical for New York’s communities. For example, with more severe weather across the country, timely weather alerts can save lives. In addition, for children not enrolled in formal pre-school, educational programming from public television ensures they can access educational content regardless of their families’ ability to pay, and teachers use worksheets and videos in local classrooms.
Below is a list of recipients in Upstate NY that received funding from CPB, according to the NYS Association for Public Broadcasting that would be at risk if the plan to defund public media were to become law with much of this funding making up a major percentage of these stations’ budgets:
City-Region
Recipient
Amount
Binghamton-Southern Tier
WSKG
$1,317,231
Western NY
Buffalo Toronto Public Media
$2,014,441
Albany
WAMC
$422,724
Oswego
WRVO
$166,192
Watertown
WPBS
$1,283,561
North Country
North Country Public Radio
$396,951
Geneva
WEOS
$109,401
Jeffersonville
Radio Catskill
$289,350
Plattsburgh
Mountain Lake PBS
$922,826
Rochester-Finger Lakes
WXXI
$1,913,857
Syracuse-Central NY
WAER
$154,962
Syracuse-Central NY
WCNY
$1,267,218
Troy
WMHT
$1,597,703
Schumer broke down how these cuts will hurt every corner of Upstate NY:
In the Southern Tier, WSKG (NPR) receives approximately $1.3 million, more than a fifth of its total budget, from the CPB to cover its predominantly-rural 21-county region. WSKG’s services include beloved free educational programs that include student writing challenges, creative events for students, lesson plans and interactive classroom resources for NY teachers, and more.
In the North Country, North Country Public Radio (NPR) would lose approximately $315,000 each year, approximately 12% of its annual budget. This funding enables NCPR to cover news across the North Country. For many rural areas in the North Country, NCPR is the only local news outlet, which is especially important for receiving local updates and timely weather alerts. Mountain Lake PBS also receives nearly $1 million, making up about 35% of its annual budget. Mountain Lake PBS provides local news including life-saving emergency alerts to the Adirondacks and Champlain Valley that might not otherwise have local coverage and says cuts of this magnitude would threaten its existence.
In the Capital Region, WAMC (NPR) receives approximately $500,000 in support from CPB. The station is headquartered in Albany with 29 towers covering a region that reaches the North Country, Hudson Valley, and Central New York, and the Mohawk Valley. WAMC offers coverage every day of the year and reaches many rural areas that don’t otherwise have reliable internet coverage. WAMC also collaborates with 12 other public radio stations across the state to share resources and reporting to ensure local journalism is reaching as many people as possible.
In Western New York, WBFO (NPR) and BTPM, Buffalo Toronto Public Media (NPR) would lose approximately 15% of its annual budget. WBFO and BTPM stream educational shows for kids on topics including science and civics and offers how-to programming on cooking, home improvement, and more.
In the Rochester-Finger Lakes Region, WXXI (PBS) would lose approximately $2 million, roughly 16% of its total annual budget of $12.9 million. WXXI is one of the few remaining local news sources in the region and offers free local programs for civic engagement. Other local stations including WEOS in Geneva and WXXY in Houghton rely on WXXI-produced content to deliver local news to rural areas.
In Central New York, WCNY (PBS) receives over $1 million annually from CPB. Originally known as “The Education Station,” WCNY offers renowned educational services including Enterprise America, a hands-on learning center for middle and high school students to learn about entrepreneurship. WRVO (NPR) receives approximately $165,000 which accounts for approximately 8% of its annual operating budget. WRVO said it depends on federal grant funding to pay salaries for WRVO, including local journalists.
In the Hudson Valley, Radio Catskill could lose $170,000, nearly 25% of its annual budget if these cuts go through. Local organizations, events, and businesses in the Catskills community relies on Radio Catskill for emergency alerts, local news, and cultural programming.
In New York State, dozens of recipients last year received more than $45 million in through the CPB, generating a significant local economic impact. According to NPR, the public broadcasting sector in New York supports nearly 4,000 jobs, including 1,125 direct positions, 1,271 indirect jobs through supply chain activity, and 1,321 induced jobs driven by household spending. This generated $122 million in direct labor income and added nearly $750 million to the state’s GDP. The public broadcasting sector also contributed an estimated $177.1 million in tax revenue, including $33 million in state taxes and nearly $116 million in federal taxes.
The CPB distributes nearly 70 percent of its funding directly to more than 1,500 locally-owned public radio and television stations – many of which are NPR or PBS affiliates – with the remaining going to shared infrastructure and services that benefit all public TV and radio stations. According to Northwestern University, nearly 55 million Americans have limited to no access to local news. According to PBS, 60 percent of its audience lives in rural communities, and its programming reaches more children than any of the children’s TV networks in a year. If passed, the GOP proposal would further limit access to local news for communities who depend on information from their local radio and television stations for vital information and services, devastating local communities who would get hit first and hardest.
Though historically funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting has been approved with bipartisan support, the House GOP last month passed legislation at President Trump’s request that would claw back more than $1 billion in bipartisan federal investments in the CPB. Trump also issued an executive order stating no money from CPB can go to NPR, PBS, or their affiliates which is currently being challenged in court. Trump’s FY 2026 budget request completely eliminates federal funding and closeout CPB.
Schumer and Senate Democrats will hold the Senate floor tonight to highlight why this bill would be devastating for New York and all of America.
The Department of Posts, Government of India, has released a commemorative postage stamp to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, a prominent educationist, statesman, and founder of Bharatiya Jana Sangh. The unveiling ceremony was held at the Siri Fort Auditorium in the national capital, in the presence of senior government officials and distinguished guests.
Organised by the Ministry of Culture, the event paid tribute to Mookerjee’s legacy through cultural performances, exhibitions, and a theatrical presentation. The stamp was formally released by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology Jitendra Singh. The first stamp album was presented by Col. Akhilesh Kumar Pandey, Chief Postmaster General of the Delhi Circle.
The programme featured patriotic instrumental performances and a theatrical act by the National School of Drama. A short documentary film and an exhibition highlighting Mookerjee’s life and contributions added depth to the occasion.
In their addresses, the dignitaries recalled Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s pivotal role in Indian education, industry, and constitutional development. His vision for national unity and inclusive growth, rooted in Indian civilisational values, was also underscored.
Designed by Nenu Gupta, the commemorative stamp symbolises Mookerjee’s lifelong commitment to public service and intellectual leadership. Along with the stamp, a specially designed First Day Cover and Brochure were also launched.
The commemorative stamp and related philatelic items are now available at Philatelic Bureaus across the country and can also be purchased online at www.epostoffice.gov.in.
Fertilizer Canada and Alberta Grains have developed a 4R memorandum of understanding (MOU) that outlines how Agriculture and Irrigation, the agriculture industry and farmers can work together to bolster data collection and communication to increase 4R practice adoption levels. The MOU, a three-year agreement, was signed by Agriculture and Irrigation, Environment and Protected Areas, Alberta Grains and Fertilizer Canada.
The objectives of the MOU are to improve production and environmental stewardship through greater awareness of 4R practices and principles. It also aims to establish mechanisms to pursue common objectives and priorities related to soil health/quality and nutrient management, and to support the Alberta government’s commitments to the crop industry’s sustainable growth.
“I’m so happy to announce the government’s MOU with Fertilizer Canada and Alberta Grains, set to increase awareness of 4R principles and practices. The bottom line is that this approach helps producers minimize nutrient losses and supports profitable and sustainable crop production in Alberta while protecting and conserving Alberta’s soil, water and air. Together we can continue to build and support an innovative and thriving agriculture sector.”
Properly managed fertilizers support cropping systems that provide economic, social and environmental benefits for Alberta farmers. This MOU will help farmers adopt science-based nutrient stewardship practices in Alberta. It also tells the world that we grow our food in an environmentally sustainable way.
“This memorandum of understanding reflects a strong, shared commitment to sustainability through 4R Nutrient Stewardship from industry, government and the agriculture sector. We are proud to collaborate with the Government of Alberta and Alberta Grains, who are dedicated and forward-thinking partners to support Alberta farmers and advance both the environmental and economic benefits that 4R practices deliver.”
“As a farmer, I’m always looking for ways to make the most efficient use of my inputs and improve the overall viability of my operation. Alberta farmers are already leading the way in responsible fertilizer use, and this MOU helps build on that by strengthening the tools and metrics we use to continue to measure progress. This commitment is a great example of industry and government working together to support practical tools that benefit farmers in the field that allow us to better demonstrate our stewardship to domestic and global customers who buy Alberta grains and other crops.”
Programs like Alberta’s Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership On-Farm Efficiency program support producers in meeting 4R nutrient stewardship objectives.
Quick facts
4R Nutrient Stewardship, established and championed by Fertilizer Canada, is a science-based suite of best management practices for farmers that optimize nutrient uptake by using the right source of nutrient at the right rate, right time and in the right place.
Fertilizer Canada has signed 4R memorandum of cooperations with Saskatchewan, Ontario and Quebec, and 4R MOUs with Manitoba and Prince Edward Island.
According to Fertilizer Canada’s 2024 Fertilizer Use Survey, 65 per cent of farmers in Alberta self-report that they comply with at least a basic level of 4R practices.
In 2024, 2,152,586 acres in Alberta were reported as 4R.
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has issued a fire ban effective at 8 a.m. on July 10, 2025, due to high fire activity and extreme fire risk. The ban encompasses the area north of the provincial forest boundary, up to the Churchill River.
The fire ban prohibits any open fires, controlled burns and fireworks in the designated boundary. This includes provincial parks, provincial recreation sites and the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District within the boundary. The ban does not include ATV/UTV restrictions at this time.
“The extreme heat we have been experiencing means there is a need for everyone to take precautions and use extreme caution outdoors,” SPSA Vice-President of Operations Steve Roberts said. “Please be cautious if you are using ATVs/UTVs and report a fire if you see one.”
The SPSA encourages municipalities, rural municipalities and communities to continue to determine if fire bans are needed in their areas to prevent unwanted human-caused wildfires.
A list of fire bans and restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites can be found here.
The SPSA has recently brought in assets from Quebec to assist with wildfire efforts. The two Quebec CL-415 aircraft and 100 wildfire personnel are currently assigned to the DITCH, PISEW, DORE and MUSKEG fires.
As of 11:00 a.m., there are 65 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Of those active fires, seven are categorized as contained, 13 are not contained, 29 are ongoing assessment and 16 are listed as protecting values.
Four communities remain under an evacuation order: Resort Subdivision of Lac La Plonge, La Plonge Reserve, Northern Village of Beauval and Kinoosao.
A full list of evacuated communities can be found on the Active Evacuations webpage.
Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office.
People can find an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips at saskpublicsafety.ca.
overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that four New York State Police staff and three canines will deploy to Kerr County, Texas to support search efforts following devastating floods. This assistance was primarily deployed as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the nation’s all-hazards national mutual aid system. EMAC has been ratified by the U.S. Congress (PL 104-321) and is law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands. EMAC’s Members can share resources from all disciplines, protect personnel who deploy and be reimbursed for mission-related costs.
“Our hearts break for the tragic loss of life in Texas, and we are sending our prayers as they continue to heal and recover from this devastating flooding,” Governor Hochul said. “New York State is committed to helping those in need, and I am grateful for our State Police personnel who will be assisting officials in Kerr County as they continue their search efforts.”
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “Disaster recovery requires an immense amount of resources and we are grateful to be able to answer the call to help when needed. New York is always prepared to support our neighbors in moments of need, and our thoughts are with the people of Texas.”
New York State Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The New York State Police is proud to support the people of Texas during this difficult time. Our Troopers and canines are trained for exactly these types of missions, and we are honored to assist in the search and recovery efforts. Whether here at home or across the country, we stand ready to help when called.”
New York State has a history of deploying resources to neighbors in need. In 2024, More than 200 emergency management staff members from numerous State agencies responded to calls for help in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida following Hurricanes Helene and Milton in October and November. Team members included staff from the National Guard, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation, Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Police, Thruway Authority, Agriculture and Markets, Office of Information Technology Services, New York City and Ulster and Montgomery counties.
OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta yesterday, as part of a multistate coalition, filed a motion for preliminary injunction to block the U.S. Department of Education from unlawfully discontinuing grants awarded through Congressionally-established school mental health funding programs, including roughly $200 million awarded to local education agencies, county offices of education, and universities in California. The motion for preliminary injunction seeks to block the Trump Administration from implementing their non-continuation decision, and ensure grant funding continues to flow to grantees who received discontinuation letters irrespective of the performance and success of their projects.
“The Trump Administration’s Department of Education should be focused on supporting the success and education of our students, but instead they are using flimsy and unlawful excuses to rip funding from projects that support the mental health and well-being of our students,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The loss of this funding would cause immense harm to California students, especially in our low-income and rural communities. That’s why we are back in court, fighting to ensure that our students have access to mental health programs that work. We’re asking the court to block the Trump Administration’s illegal actions while litigation continues.”
BACKGROUND:
On June 30, Attorney General Bonta joined a coalition of 16 states in suing the Trump Administration’s Department of Education over their unlawful decision to discontinue grants awarded through Congressionally-established school mental health funding programs. If allowed to stand, starting this fall, many states’ elementary and secondary schools will lose mental health services critical to students’ well-being, safety, and academic success. The Department had awarded this funding to the nation’s high-need, low-income, and rural schools pursuant to its Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant Program and its School-Based Mental Health Services Grant Program. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington seeks injunctive and declaratory relief to safeguard this critical funding, which fosters safe and supportive learning environments, and supports the well-being of our students.
Despite the success of these mental health programs, on or about April 29, 2025, the Department sent boilerplate notices to grantees, including state education agencies, local education agencies, and institutes of higher education, claiming that their grants conflicted with the Trump Administration’s priorities and would not be continued. The notices claimed the Department intends to reallocate funds based on new priorities of “merit, fairness, and excellence in education,” providing little to no insight into the basis for the discontinuance, while destroying projects years in the making. However, in the press, the Trump Administration admitted that it targeted Plaintiff States’ grants for their perceived diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, which the States argue is not a legal basis for discontinuation. In the lawsuit, the attorneys general argue that the Trump Administration’s decision to discontinue funding through a vague boilerplate notice, without any mention of grantees’ performance, violates the Administrative Procedure Act and is an unconstitutional violation of the Spending Clause and Separation of Powers.
A copy of the motion for preliminary injunction is available here.
U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 07/09/2025 04:45 PM EDT
News Release
U.S. Coast Guard Southeast District PA Detachment Jacksonville Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Jacksonville Office: 904-714-7606/7607 After Hours: 786-393-4138 PA Detachment Jacksonville online newsroom
07/09/2025 04:11 PM EDT
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville held a change of command ceremony, Wednesday, at the Jacksonville Public Library.
The group is accused of storing explosive devices, dozens of firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition. The RCMP seized all of it, and the four suspects are due to appear in Québec City court next week. Three are charged with facilitating a terrorist activity, along with weapon-possession offences.
The suspects include active members of the Canadian Armed Forces, according to the RCMP. Given the allegations that they were planning terrorist attacks for an extremist militia, the inclusion of army personnel might not be surprising.
But it could represent a stark manifestation of a deeply troubling and accelerating trend: the rise of violent right-wing extremism and anti-government or anti-authority radicalization within western democracies. This is a shift dramatically exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic as many seized the opportunity to spread anti-government ideas based on restricted freedoms.
Raphaël Lagacé, one of the suspects charged by the RCMP. (Instagram)
There’s also a long-running pattern of militia activity in North America. Activities in the United States show how dangerous it is when violent ideologies spread.
This includes the nihilistic doctrine of accelerationism, which is a white-supremacist belief that the current state of society cannot be fixed and that the only way to repair it is to destroy and collapse the “system”.
There are versions of accelerationism on both the right and left.
In the past decade, white supremacist, anti-government and militia groups have gained traction. That’s due in part to online echo chambers, growing political and social divisions and the rise and rapid spread of conspiracy theories.
In 2023, the FBI repeatedly said domestic violent extremism continues to pose a threat, especially racially or ethnically motivated extremists and anti-government groups.
Accelerationism is behind a lot of this violence. It underpins efforts to speed up the disintegration of society through targeted violence and technology, with the goal of starting a racial war or civil war to bring down liberal democratic institutions.
The Base is an example of this trend. It’s a multinational, trans-border white supremacist network that supports violence to create chaos.
But this is not just a North American problem. Before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, far-right members of the Ukrainian Azov Regiment reportedly drew western extremists to their cause, many of whom were looking for paramilitary training, possibly to use against their own governments.
Canada: The Base, the ‘freedom convoy’
This global tide doesn’t leave Canada out. The arrests in Québec are the most recent and concerning example.
Mathew fled to the U.S. in 2019. The FBI subsequently arrested him and charged him with gun-related crimes and taking part in a riot at a Virginia protest. Mathew is now serving a long prison sentence for his part in what the FBI called a “neo-Nazi plot to instigate a race war in the United States.”
These examples clearly show how extremists work within national military systems to learn tactical capabilities.
The so-called “freedom convoy” occupation of Ottawa in 2022 also showed troubling connections between radicalism and some parts of the Canadian Armed Forces.
All of this paints a bleak picture: extremist ideas are slowly taking hold in Canada as adherents aim to leverage military training to spread cynicism in democratic institutions. Previous studies back this up.
Countering the threat
To deal with this complicated and changing threat, we need a whole society, integrated approach that includes reliable top-down enforcement and monitoring and proactive, bottom-up societal resilience.
To quickly disrupt and deter extremist groups, top-down actions are very important. To properly monitor, penetrate and break up violent extremist networks, law enforcement and security services like CSIS and the RCMP need more resources, updated laws and better co-ordination.
It’s also important for the Canadian Armed Forces and other security-sensitive organizations to have better screening processes to find and purge those with extremist ideas.
But law enforcement isn’t enough. For one, it could be seen as biased, which could lead to more radicalization. Bottom-up methods are just as important for long-term prevention.
We need programs that provide teachers, social workers, community leaders and families with the tools they need to spot early signs of radicalization and do something about it in a positive way.
It’s important to teach people how to think critically, read the news to fight false information and learn about civic duties that stress democratic principles and diversity. This is especially critical to fight against rising hate-motivated crimes.
I am involved in a one such project. It’s called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM). We strive to build resilient communities by creating awareness and early detection of radicalism.
Dialogue and education are paramount.
Canada can’t afford to wait for a disaster to happen before acting. It can’t let its soldiers — those tasked with protecting Canadians and Canada’s security — get caught up in right-wing extremism. They are a source of national pride and should remain so.
Kawser Ahmed has led a Public Safety project called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM)
The group is accused of storing explosive devices, dozens of firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition. The RCMP seized all of it, and the four suspects are due to appear in Québec City court next week. Three are charged with facilitating a terrorist activity, along with weapon-possession offences.
The suspects include active members of the Canadian Armed Forces, according to the RCMP. Given the allegations that they were planning terrorist attacks for an extremist militia, the inclusion of army personnel might not be surprising.
But it could represent a stark manifestation of a deeply troubling and accelerating trend: the rise of violent right-wing extremism and anti-government or anti-authority radicalization within western democracies. This is a shift dramatically exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic as many seized the opportunity to spread anti-government ideas based on restricted freedoms.
Raphaël Lagacé, one of the suspects charged by the RCMP. (Instagram)
There’s also a long-running pattern of militia activity in North America. Activities in the United States show how dangerous it is when violent ideologies spread.
This includes the nihilistic doctrine of accelerationism, which is a white-supremacist belief that the current state of society cannot be fixed and that the only way to repair it is to destroy and collapse the “system”.
There are versions of accelerationism on both the right and left.
In the past decade, white supremacist, anti-government and militia groups have gained traction. That’s due in part to online echo chambers, growing political and social divisions and the rise and rapid spread of conspiracy theories.
In 2023, the FBI repeatedly said domestic violent extremism continues to pose a threat, especially racially or ethnically motivated extremists and anti-government groups.
Accelerationism is behind a lot of this violence. It underpins efforts to speed up the disintegration of society through targeted violence and technology, with the goal of starting a racial war or civil war to bring down liberal democratic institutions.
The Base is an example of this trend. It’s a multinational, trans-border white supremacist network that supports violence to create chaos.
But this is not just a North American problem. Before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, far-right members of the Ukrainian Azov Regiment reportedly drew western extremists to their cause, many of whom were looking for paramilitary training, possibly to use against their own governments.
Canada: The Base, the ‘freedom convoy’
This global tide doesn’t leave Canada out. The arrests in Québec are the most recent and concerning example.
Mathew fled to the U.S. in 2019. The FBI subsequently arrested him and charged him with gun-related crimes and taking part in a riot at a Virginia protest. Mathew is now serving a long prison sentence for his part in what the FBI called a “neo-Nazi plot to instigate a race war in the United States.”
These examples clearly show how extremists work within national military systems to learn tactical capabilities.
The so-called “freedom convoy” occupation of Ottawa in 2022 also showed troubling connections between radicalism and some parts of the Canadian Armed Forces.
All of this paints a bleak picture: extremist ideas are slowly taking hold in Canada as adherents aim to leverage military training to spread cynicism in democratic institutions. Previous studies back this up.
Countering the threat
To deal with this complicated and changing threat, we need a whole society, integrated approach that includes reliable top-down enforcement and monitoring and proactive, bottom-up societal resilience.
To quickly disrupt and deter extremist groups, top-down actions are very important. To properly monitor, penetrate and break up violent extremist networks, law enforcement and security services like CSIS and the RCMP need more resources, updated laws and better co-ordination.
It’s also important for the Canadian Armed Forces and other security-sensitive organizations to have better screening processes to find and purge those with extremist ideas.
But law enforcement isn’t enough. For one, it could be seen as biased, which could lead to more radicalization. Bottom-up methods are just as important for long-term prevention.
We need programs that provide teachers, social workers, community leaders and families with the tools they need to spot early signs of radicalization and do something about it in a positive way.
It’s important to teach people how to think critically, read the news to fight false information and learn about civic duties that stress democratic principles and diversity. This is especially critical to fight against rising hate-motivated crimes.
I am involved in a one such project. It’s called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM). We strive to build resilient communities by creating awareness and early detection of radicalism.
Dialogue and education are paramount.
Canada can’t afford to wait for a disaster to happen before acting. It can’t let its soldiers — those tasked with protecting Canadians and Canada’s security — get caught up in right-wing extremism. They are a source of national pride and should remain so.
Kawser Ahmed has led a Public Safety project called Extremism and Radicalization to Violence Prevention in Manitoba (ERIM)
The trade discussions between the EU and the US are moving forward, after
President von der Leyen had a fruitful exchange with President Trump.
The EU will stick to its principles, working in good faith and protecting European Industry and Consumers.
While in Richland, Chestermere-Strathmore MLA Chantelle de Jonge will join state legislators from across the U.S. in training from July 10 to 15 to gather the latest insights on North America’s energy ecosystem, and emerging challenges and opportunities driving current U.S. energy policy and decision making.
MLA de Jonge will also attend meetings where she will reinforce that when it comes to achieving the goal of energy dominance, Alberta has the answers.
Founded in 2009 by the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER), University of Idaho and U.S. Department of Energy, LEHI is an important forum for emerging leaders in energy policy to build connections, share ideas and enhance their ability to ensure a stable, secure and affordable energy supply and delivery system between Canada and the U.S.
“I will take every opportunity to engage and promote how our province can provide reliable and sustainably produced energy to our partners in the U.S. It is time to find common ground and work together to seize the incredible energy opportunities in front of us. Current global events have brought a lot of uncertainty, but one thing remains clear – Alberta stands ready to partner with the U.S. to achieve our global energy ambitions.”
Programming will cover key topics such as opportunities and challenges to diversifying North America’s energy mix, examining North American energy infrastructure, policy options, regulations, financial implications, market impacts and more. The comprehensive sessions will provide MLA de Jonge with an even deeper understanding of the issues that are top of mind for U.S. lawmakers.
The LEHI is exclusive to elected officials from the U.S. and Canada, including state and provincial legislators, governors, advisors and policymakers. The 60-hour program is delivered in two parts, with the second session taking place in Washington, D.C. in the fall.
Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.
Itinerary for MLA de Jonge*
July 10
Travel to Richland, WA.
July 11-15
Attend training and meet with U.S. legislators and policymakers at LEHI.
Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services, has released the following statement in response to the release of the report for the Commission of Inquiry into Community Events Safety in B.C.:
“I want to recognize the victims, families and communities who have been impacted by the tragic violence that occurred on April 26, 2025, after the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival. We continue to grieve with you, and we are here today because your safety, and the safety of everyone in our province, comes first.
“Immediately following the attack, we commissioned Christopher Hinkson, a former chief justice, to support local governments, event organizers and public-safety officials to provide clear, practical guidance to ensure community events are safe this summer and beyond.
“Today, on July 9, 2025, those recommendations are being made public. I want to sincerely thank Commissioner Hinkson and his team for their swift and thoughtful work. Their findings reflect extensive consultation with communities, Indigenous event planners, law enforcement, municipalities and event organizers and offer clear, practical steps to strengthen security and safety at community events.
“Most importantly, the report includes new tools that event organizers throughout B.C. can begin using right away, including an event safety plan template and a risk assessment framework. These resources reflect best practices drawn from research, and can be adapted to suit events, large and small, and in rural and urban and Indigenous communities.
“The report notes that the vast majority of public events in B.C. are safe, well organized and widely enjoyed. While this report provides a strong foundation, there is more work to do. We must continue bringing people together, across sectors and governments, to share best practices, strengthen collaboration and build lasting systems of support.
“We have received the report and are working through the details, but we accept the intent of the recommendations and are working on how best to act on them, including with other levels of government and event organizers. This is about keeping people safe, supporting healing and maintaining public confidence in the safety of community gatherings.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe when celebrating with friends, neighbours, and loved ones. That’s the foundation of this work: continuing to strengthen our work together to keep people and communities safe.”
Learn More:
To read the report of the Commission of Inquiry into Community Events Safety, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/law-crime-and-justice/about-bc-justice-system/inquiries/commission_of_inquiry_into_community_events_safety-report_20250626.pdf
July 9, 2025 – Chișinău, Moldova – Global Affairs Canada
Canada and the Republic of Moldova share deep-rooted values. With common goals of addressing climate change and advancing gender equality, the 2 countries are working together to build a greener and more-inclusive economy for all.
Robert Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced Canada’s support for the “Advancing Climate Resilience and Women’s Empowerment in Moldova” initiative on behalf of the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development).
This $6.5-million technical assistance project is being carried out in partnership with the UN Development Programme and UN Women. It aims to enhance climate resilience and promote gender equality through economic support for rural women entrepreneurs in the agroforestry sector. Women in vulnerable communities will gain targeted and specialized skills in climate-smart agriculture and forestry, leadership, and business development through training.
This announcement demonstrates Canada’s commitment to supporting the Republic of Moldova’s social and economic growth. Addressing barriers to education and finance in climate-smart sectors will ensure equitable access for women, strengthen community development and lead to a more sustainable global future.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)
LOWELL, MA – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (CA-02) urged Department of Interior Secretary Burgum to revoke DOGE officials’ access to his agency’s critical technology systems and sensitive data. “We are deeply concerned by recent reports that you provided at least three DOGE-affiliated individuals—Tyler Hassen, Stephanie Holmes, and Katrine Trampe—with unfettered access to the IBC’s FPPS system,” the lawmakers wrote. “These reports indicate that you granted this access despite significant concerns expressed by senior career DOI officials, including the Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer, who raised alarms in a risk assessment memorandum. According to the memorandum, DOGE’s access requests were unprecedented and posed significant cybersecurity, operational, and legal risks–including potential violations of the Privacy Act of 1974, which may carry criminal penalties. Rather than addressing these concerns, you reportedly placed these officials on administrative leave and later terminated them.” In March, public reporting indicated that staffers affiliated with DOGE received access to critical technology systems at DOI. Secretary Burgum decided to grant unprecedented access to at least three DOGE officials against the objections of senior career staffers, who were summarily placed on administrative leave and later terminated. One of these systems is the Federal Personnel and Payroll System (FPPS), which stores troves of sensitive personnel data and supports the payroll operations of more than 50 agencies. In the lawmakers’ letter, they warn about the major cybersecurity and privacy risks that access to systems including FPPS needlessly creates. They also call attention to the risk of imperiling the operations of dozens of agencies that rely on shared software systems built and maintained by DOI. “That level of access, reportedly exceeding even that of DOI’s Chief Information Officer (CIO), is deeply troubling. It creates exactly the kind of cybersecurity, operational, and privacy vulnerabilities that the experienced civil servants warned about in their risk assessment memo and sought to prevent. These individuals now have access that could allow, among other things, the exfiltration of data to unknown and unprotected destinations, the deletion of records and logs, the modification of system code or data, and the ability to grant the same capabilities to others,” the lawmakers warned. A copy of the letter sent today can be accessed HERE. This request builds on Trahan’s investigation into the Trump Administration’s unprecedented attempt to centralize Americans’ personal data, including information held by federal agencies like the Treasury Department and the National Labor Relations Board as well as state-held data used to administer benefits programs like SNAP and Medicaid. In March, Trahan announced that she will be introducing legislation to rewrite the Privacy Act for the first time since its passage in 1974. ###
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)
LOWELL, MA – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (CA-02) urged Department of Interior Secretary Burgum to revoke DOGE officials’ access to his agency’s critical technology systems and sensitive data. “We are deeply concerned by recent reports that you provided at least three DOGE-affiliated individuals—Tyler Hassen, Stephanie Holmes, and Katrine Trampe—with unfettered access to the IBC’s FPPS system,” the lawmakers wrote. “These reports indicate that you granted this access despite significant concerns expressed by senior career DOI officials, including the Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer, who raised alarms in a risk assessment memorandum. According to the memorandum, DOGE’s access requests were unprecedented and posed significant cybersecurity, operational, and legal risks–including potential violations of the Privacy Act of 1974, which may carry criminal penalties. Rather than addressing these concerns, you reportedly placed these officials on administrative leave and later terminated them.” In March, public reporting indicated that staffers affiliated with DOGE received access to critical technology systems at DOI. Secretary Burgum decided to grant unprecedented access to at least three DOGE officials against the objections of senior career staffers, who were summarily placed on administrative leave and later terminated. One of these systems is the Federal Personnel and Payroll System (FPPS), which stores troves of sensitive personnel data and supports the payroll operations of more than 50 agencies. In the lawmakers’ letter, they warn about the major cybersecurity and privacy risks that access to systems including FPPS needlessly creates. They also call attention to the risk of imperiling the operations of dozens of agencies that rely on shared software systems built and maintained by DOI. “That level of access, reportedly exceeding even that of DOI’s Chief Information Officer (CIO), is deeply troubling. It creates exactly the kind of cybersecurity, operational, and privacy vulnerabilities that the experienced civil servants warned about in their risk assessment memo and sought to prevent. These individuals now have access that could allow, among other things, the exfiltration of data to unknown and unprotected destinations, the deletion of records and logs, the modification of system code or data, and the ability to grant the same capabilities to others,” the lawmakers warned. A copy of the letter sent today can be accessed HERE. This request builds on Trahan’s investigation into the Trump Administration’s unprecedented attempt to centralize Americans’ personal data, including information held by federal agencies like the Treasury Department and the National Labor Relations Board as well as state-held data used to administer benefits programs like SNAP and Medicaid. In March, Trahan announced that she will be introducing legislation to rewrite the Privacy Act for the first time since its passage in 1974. ###
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
This recall involves removing certain devices from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it. Affected Product
What to Do On May 15, AirLife sent all affected customers a letter recommending the following actions:
Examine your inventory for affected product. Quarantine all affected product in inventory. Immediately stop use of affected product or product that has been removed from the outer bulk labeling (e.g. included on a Broselow Color-code Cart) with version “AirLife brand, 2025 Edition, and 36-23446 Rev 2 Print Version.” If you have further distributed this product, please identify your customers/consignees and notify them of this product removal. Please make sure that all affected personnel in your organization are informed of this removal notice.
Reason for Recall AirLife stated that certain lots of Broselow Rainbow Tapes have been manufactured with incorrect information on the tape. Incorrect values are printed in the Red zone, Orange zone, and Grey zone. Incorrect joules in the cardioversion and defibrillation section are printed in the Red zone of the tape. Using the incorrect information in this section for cardioversion and defibrillation could lead to shocking a patient with an excessive dose of joules, causing potential significant harm including burns, heart damage, and cardiac arrest. Incorrect sodium bicarbonate concentration information is printed in the Orange zone of the tape. Using the incorrect information in this section may lead to overdosing the patient and may cause metabolic alkalosis, electrolyte imbalances, tissue damage, and potentially worsen respiratory status. Incorrect sodium bicarbonate concentration information is printed in the Grey zone of the tape. Using the incorrect information in this section may lead to underdosing the patient and may cause reduced myocardial contractility, decreased response to vasopressors, and increased risk of dysrhythmia. AirLife has not reported any serious injuries or deaths associated with this issue. Device Use The Broselow Rainbow Tape is a color-coded length-based tape measure. A child’s height, measured on the tape, corresponds to a color zone and a weight range. This color zone provides pre-calculated information for medication dosages, equipment sizes, and other relevant emergency procedures. It reduces the time needed to calculate dosages and equipment sizes in a critical emergency. Contact Information Customers in the U.S. with adverse reactions, quality problems, or questions about this recall should contact AirLife at productquality@myairlife.com or 1-800-433-2797. Additional FDA Resources (listed in order of most to least recent):
Unique Device Identifier (UDI) The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.
How do I report a problem? Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
This recall involves removing certain devices from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it. Affected Product
Image A: Adaptors provided in the accessory bag of the AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuit.
Do not use affected devices with the adapter connections from the accessory bag of the AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuit. Immediately stop using any devices that are connected using these adapters. If the adapter connection is not being used with the device, you may continue to use it.
On April 10, 2025, AirLife and legal manufacturer Vyaire sent all affected customers an Urgent Medical Device Recall letter recommending the following actions:
Examine inventory for affected lots. Quarantine all affected product. Make sure all affected personnel are aware of this recall notification. For in-use products:
Stop use of affected product if adapter connections are used in the circuit. Continue using affected product if the adapter connections are NOT being used with the device. Perform frequent checks on ventilator settings, tubing, and connections to ensure they are firmly tight, secure, and functioning properly. Make sure all alarms for pressure, flow, and disconnection are activated and monitor the patient’s respiratory parameters closely. Keep backup ventilation and/or manual resuscitation devices should be available at the bedside for emergent situations. Monitor oxygen saturation (Sp02), heart rate, and respiratory rate to make sure clinicians are alerted to any adverse event.
Before use:
Test the circuit by blocking the patient connection port and pressure testing it to ensure that there are no leaks.
Complete and return the Response Form attached to the letter. Notify any customers/consignees who may have received affected product. Call AirLife directly at 1-800-433-2797 if replacement products are needed urgently.
Reason for Recall AirLife and legal manufacturer Vyaire are recalling certain Infant Heated Wire Circuits due to the risk that accessory adapters provided with the product may unintentionally disconnect during setup or use when the circuit reaches operating temperature. Use of the affected product may cause serious adverse health consequences, including lack of oxygen to the body (hypoxia), carbon dioxide build-up in the blood (hypercapnia), organ failure and death. To date, Airlife and Vyaire have reported no serious injuries or deaths associated with this issue. Device Use AirLife Infant Heated Wire Circuits are used during ventilation support to warm breathing gases before they enter a patient’s airway. They are used in neonatal and infant patients and function as a conduit for respiratory gas between the patient and a ventilator. Contact Information Customers in the U.S. with questions about this recall should contact AirLife at 1-800-433-2797 or productquality@myairlife.com. Additional FDA Resources (listed in order of most to least recent):
FDA’s Enforcement Report
Medical Device Recall Database
Unique Device Identifier (UDI) The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.
How do I report a problem? Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.
H.R. 3331 would direct the Coast Guard to convene a working group to study and report on the licensing exam process for merchant mariners working on commercial vessels. Under the bill, the working group would review the accuracy and relevance of exam questions and assess the effectiveness of testing procedures. H.R. 3331 also would require the Coast Guard to develop a plan to update the exam by incorporating the findings of the working group.
Using information about the cost of similar efforts, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 3331 would cost $1 million over the 2025-2030 period for staff salaries and other administrative expenses to satisfy the bill’s reporting requirements. Such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.
The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Aldo Prosperi. The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.
Jefferson City — Today, during a bill signing ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Governor Mike Kehoe signed eight bills into law: House Bills (HB) 296 and 419, and Senate Bills (SB) 49, 63, 68, 150, and 160, and Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 3.
“From implementing distraction-free classrooms to expanding school safety efforts, the legislation signed into law this afternoon impacts both K-12 students and Missourians pursuing higher and career technical education,” said Governor Kehoe. “We are proud to join the General Assembly in supporting these wins for Missouri schools, students, and teachers.”
HB 296, sponsored by Representative Jim Kalberloh and Senator Rusty Black, modifies provisions relating to school personnel.
Expands substitute teaching eligibility for retired teachers.
Requires background checks to be conducted on all personnel employed by charter schools, consistent with public school requirements.
Raises the age for driver’s license renewal exams for school bus-endorsed drivers from 70 to 75 and adjusts the renewal requirements from annual to biennial.
HB 419, sponsored by Representative Don Mayhew and Senator Sandy Crawford, modifies several provisions relating to education.
Requires the Missouri State High School Activities Association to waive the minimum practice requirement for all students who are active-duty military, including active-duty Army National Guard and Army Reserve.
Establishes a separate custodial account with the State Treasurer to deposit the moneys from the University of Missouri’s Seminary Fund to support agricultural programs at the University and general operations at Missouri University of Science and Technology.
Expands healthcare workforce recruitment by giving the Department of Health and Senior Services flexibility to approve more medical training programs for loan repayment
SB 49, sponsored by Senator Rusty Black and Representative Brad Banderman, authorizes school districts and charter schools to employ or accept chaplains as volunteers.
SB 63, sponsored by Senator Ben Brown and Representative Dirk Deaton, allows homeschool students to participate in school activities within their respective district, requires an intent to homeschool declaration, and exempts Family Paced Education from background clearance check requirements.
SB 68, sponsored by Senator Mike Henderson and Representative Bill Allen, creates, repeals, and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education.
Directs all school districts and charter schools to implement a written policy, starting in the 2025-26 school year, banning the use or display of students’ electronic personal communication devices throughout the day – including during class, meals, breaks, and study hall.
Improves school safety measures including:
Requires cardiopulmonary resuscitation training.
Requires school districts and charter schools to adopt a comprehensive emergency operations plan covering school safety, emergency response, prevention, and recovery.
Directs districts to designate a primary and secondary school safety coordinator and defines the job duties, trainings, and expectations for this position.
Requires local educational agencies report all school safety incidents and credible threats to DESE. DESE will maintain a regularly updated database of these incidents and threats and share this data with DPS.
Expands the Teacher Recruitment and Retention Scholarship to cover educational costs related to teacher preparation.
SB 150, sponsored by Senator Jill Carter and Representative Ann Kelley, creates, repeals, and modifies provisions relating to workforce development initiatives.
Creates a temporary license that allows childcare providers currently licensed and in good standing to expand their current operations while the additional licensure requirements are being completed.
Raises the Access Missouri financial assistance award for students attending public two- and four-year institutions.
Expands the eligible use of the A+ Scholarship program to include career-technical education certificates offered outside traditional higher education settings, effective for the 2026-2027 school year.
SB 160, sponsored by Senator Brad Hudson and Representative Darin Chappell, establishes provisions relating to educational institutions.
Establishes the Missouri Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act to prevent discrimination based on a person’s hair texture or protective hairstyle if commonly associated with a particular race or origin in elementary and secondary educational institutions.
Prohibits higher education institutions from taking adverse action against a student group due to the group’s beliefs or of its leaders.
Establishes Danny’s Law, which provides limited immunity to individuals who participated in hazing when they contacted authorities, sought immediate medical attention, provided necessary information to authorities, and remained on scene to assist the victim until authorities arrived.
Authorizes Missouri State University to offer research PhDs degrees in disciplines other than engineering and Bachelors of Science in Veterinary Medicine.
SCR 3, sponsored by Senator Jill Carter and Representative Cathy Lo Joy, expands the mission of Missouri Southern State University from operating as a statewide institution of international or global education to also include health and life sciences and immersive learning experiences.
For more information on the legislation and additional provisions signed into law, visit house.mo.gov and senate.mo.gov. Photos from the bill signing will be uploaded to Governor Kehoe’s Flickr page. Additional bill signings will continue to take place over the next several days. For more information on the bill signings, view Governor Kehoe’s schedule.
PROVIDENCE – A Rhode Island man has been arrested and is scheduled to make an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Providence today for threatening to kill President Donald Trump, United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi, and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, announced Acting Rhode Island United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.
Court documents allege that on June 27, 2025, Carl D. Montague, 37, issued a profanity-laced posting on Truth Social threatening to shoot and kill President Trump, Attorney General Bondi, and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Miller.
Montague is charged by way of a criminal complaint with threats against the President; interstate threats; threats to assault; and kidnap, or murder of a United States official, judge, or law enforcement officer. He was arrested without incident this morning and is scheduled to make an initial appearance before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Amy E. Moses at 1:00 PM.
A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dulce Donovan.
The matter was investigated by the FBI, United States Secret Service, and the Providence Police Department.
Green hydrogen is touted by some as the future – a way for Australia to slowly replace its reliance on fossil fuel exports. The energy-dense gas has the potential to reduce emissions in sectors challenging to decarbonise, such as steelmaking and fertiliser manufacturing.
The Albanese government wants it to be a massive new export industry and has laid out a pathway through its National Hydrogen Strategy.
Unfortunately, there’s a real gap between rhetoric and reality. Despite ambitious plans, no green hydrogen project has yet succeeded in Australia. The technology’s most prominent local backer, billionaire miner Twiggy Forrest, has dialled down his ambition. Globally, just 7% of announced green hydrogen projects are up and running.
Economic viability is one problem. But there’s a much larger issue flying under the radar: water. Hitting the 2050 target of 15 million to 30 million tonnes of hydrogen a year would use 7–15% of the amount Australia’s households, farms, mines and black coal power plants use annually. That’s simply not sustainable.
Splitting water
Green hydrogen uses renewable energy to power electrolyser machines, which split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.
On the surface, this is an appealing use of clean energy, especially during solar peak periods.
But what the government hasn’t properly accounted for is the water cost for green hydrogen. The strategy states water use is likely to be “considerable but not prohibitive”.
This is questionable. For every kilogram of hydrogen produced through electrolysis, nine litres of water are directly consumed.
That’s not all. The water needed to make hydrogen has to be extremely pure. Salt water has to be desalinated, and even fresh water needs purification. Equipment also needs cooling, which consumes even more water.
All these processes incur substantial indirect water losses, such as the water used for industrial processes and cooling. The volumes used are highly uncertain. They can be up to 20 times greater than the direct water use.
A key input value for the government’s hydrogen strategy modelling is taken from a 2015 report by the Argonne National Energy Laboratory in the United States, which assumes each kilogram of green hydrogen produced requires just over 30 litres of water.
The Australian hydrogen strategy suggests 30 litres per kilogram of hydrogen would cover “all system losses including purification processes and cooling water required”. But it’s not clear if this figure covers other uses of water in making hydrogen, such as water treatment.
Green hydrogen could help industrial sectors transition from fossil fuels. The problem is the water use. Audio und werbung/Shutterstock
How much water would this use?
According to the government’s modelling, making 15 million tonnes would require 740 billion litres of water. That would be about 7% of the 10,450 billion litres used by all of Australia’s households, farms, mines and black coal power plants.
That’s substantial. One and a half Sydney Harbours worth, every year. But it might be a major underestimate. After all, estimates on indirect water use differ widely. The government’s figures are at the very bottom of the range.
For instance, the latest research gives water consumption figures of about 66 litres per kilogram – more than twice as large. Other sourcesgive values between 90 and 300 litres per kilogram of hydrogen – three to ten times higher.
Uncertainty in modelling is normal. But the wide research suggesting much higher water use should give rise to real concern.
If we take a middle-of-the-range figure of 95 litres per kilogram, this would mean that making 15 million tonnes of green hydrogen would use up 22% of the 10,450 billion litres used by households, farms, mines and black coal power plants annually by 2050.
If hydrogen was even thirstier at 310 litres per kilogram, that would translate to 72% of that figure.
These estimates are enormous. Even under the most optimistic scenario, the draw on Australia’s scarce freshwater resources would simply be too much. Where would this water come from? Farmers? Groundwater? Environmental flows from rivers?
As the Queensland Farmers Federation pointed out in its response to the hydrogen strategy, the figures on water use “beg the question if they are in fact sustainable”.
The Water Services Association of Australia has called for much greater attention to the water demands of green hydrogen, which it says are “often seriously underestimated”.
What about saltwater? Australia has no shortage of oceans. The problem here becomes energy and wastewater. Desalination is still very energy intensive. Converting saltwater to fresh also produces large volumes of super-salty brine, which must then be managed as waste.
Which way forward?
Does this mean green hydrogen is a non-starter? Not necessarily. Improved electrolyser technology might offer ways to slash water use, while circular economy approaches such as resource recovery from brine could also reduce losses.
But these concerns about water must be front and centre in future discussions about the shape and size of the industry in Australia.
Madoc Sheehan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
We’ve long known there’s a link between alcohol and violence, but when it comes to homicide the stories behind the statistics are harder to grasp.
Our study sheds rare light on what actually happens when drinking precedes killing, because it draws not just on police or court records but on the first-hand accounts of convicted offenders.
We interviewed 205 Australian men and women across Australia aged between 15 and 65 at the time of homicide and 20 to 71 when interviewed.
Nearly half (43%) said they’d been drinking immediately before committing the act. While levels of intoxication varied, many described being heavily under the influence at the time.
One man, when asked about his alcohol consumption, stated he had drunk “shitloads” before the incident occurred, adding he intended to “write (himself) off” that night.
The study offers a disturbing but important window into the realities of alcohol-involved homicide.
What do we know about alcohol and homicide?
Most of our knowledge about homicide and alcohol comes from police reports, forensic toxicology and court proceedings. These are useful but limited. They often lack detail about how much was consumed, when and in what context.
Self-report data – what offenders themselves say about their state of mind and substance use – add depth to this picture.
While not without its flaws (memory and honesty being obvious concerns), such data helps us understand the psychological and situational dynamics of homicide better than numbers alone.
What the study found
Of the 205 homicide offenders interviewed, those who had been drinking prior to the offence shared some distinct characteristics.
Alcohol-involved homicides were more likely to occur at night, happen in public places such as pubs or parks, involve older offenders, and be committed with knives.
Interestingly, these cases weren’t necessarily the result of long-planned acts.
Rather, they had many markers of impulsivity – spontaneous, emotionally charged and often reactive violence.
Alcohol’s impact here could have played a role, as our study found drinkers and non-drinkers had similar self-control levels.
Self-control is the ability to manage impulses, emotions and actions in pursuit of long-term goals and is typically seen as a buffer against offending.
This suggests alcohol may overpower people’s behaviour even if they boast moderate impulse control.
Why chronic alcohol problems matter
The strongest predictor of alcohol-involved homicide wasn’t age, gender, or criminal history. It was whether the offender had ongoing problems with alcohol misuse.
This points to the deeply entrenched nature of alcohol dependence and its capacity to fuel extreme violence. It also has clear implications for prevention.
Tackling long-term alcohol abuse isn’t just a health issue – it’s a public safety issue.
The data suggest that had some of these people received support or intervention earlier, lives may have been saved.
More than a disinhibitor?
We often think of alcohol as a “disinhibitor” – something that lowers self-control and makes people do things they wouldn’t otherwise do.
That’s true to an extent but this study highlights the story is more complex.
Many of these homicides didn’t happen because someone simply “lost control”, they happened in a context shaped by years of alcohol misuse, patterns of violence and social disadvantage.
In some cases, alcohol didn’t cause the violence, it gave it an opportunity.
What can we do?
Understanding the characteristics of alcohol-involved homicide can help shape more effective crime prevention strategies.
Some takeaways include:
Early intervention: addressing problem drinking before it escalates into chronic misuse is critical. This includes better screening, treatment programs and community-based support services.
Night-time and public place policing: since these homicides are more likely to happen in public at night, there may be a role for targeted interventions in high-risk locations—especially around bars, clubs and events where alcohol flows freely.
Knife crime prevention: the strong association with knife use suggests we also need to examine how accessible knives are in public settings and educate people about the risks of carrying them.
Looking to the future
This research doesn’t offer easy solutions but it does reinforce a vital truth: preventing homicide isn’t just about catching violent people, it’s about understanding the conditions that make violence more likely.
By listening to those who’ve committed the ultimate crime, we might just learn how to help better prevent it from happening in the first place.
Anna Hartley, science communicator at Griffith University, contributed to this article.
Li Eriksson has received research funding from the Australian Institute of Criminology, Queensland Corrective Services, and Queensland Police Service.
Paul Mazerolle received funding from the Australian Research Council to support research which informed this article..
Richard Wortley and Samara McPhedran do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
