Headline: Additional support for healthcare students and graduates from Rural, Regional and Remote locations
Published: 5 February 2025
Released by: Minister for Regional Health, Minister for Regional NSW
Healthcare students and graduates living or seeking employment in rural, regional and remote NSW can now apply for 9 types of scholarships designed to support their studies and boost the state’s regional health workforce.
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park today opened the first round of the NSW Government’s $5 million Rural and Regional Health Career Scholarships Program for 2025, which support Students of Nursing, Midwifery, Medicine, Dentistry and Allied Health.
Applications are now open for the Diploma of Nursing Rural Travel Support Incentive, which provides financial travel assistance for Diploma of Nursing students from a rural area (Modified Monash Model locations 3 or above) and live more than 100km (one way) from the Registered Training Organisation. Eligible students can apply for a travel incentive of $5,000 to go towards the cost of travel and accommodation related to their Diploma of Nursing studies.
Applications are also open for the New Graduate Nursing and Midwifery Rural Support Incentive, which provides a one-off payment of $1,000 to support relocation costs for non-local graduate registered nurses and midwives seeking employment in identified rural or remote LHD locations.
These scholarships are expected to support more than 1,100 healthcare workers.
The full list of scholarships include:
Diploma of Nursing Rural Travel Support Incentive
New Graduate Nursing and Midwifery Rural Support Incentive
Allied Health Rural Generalist Program (Level 1) Scholarship
Allied Health Rural Generalist Diploma Rural Practice (Level 2) Scholarship
Rural Allied Health Assistant Scholarship
Aboriginal Rural Allied Health University Student Scholarship
Supporting Entry into University Medicine or Dentistry Scholarship (GAMSAT)
Supporting Entry into University Medicine or Dentistry Scholarship (UCAT)
Getting Started in Medicine Scholarship for First Year Students
For more information on the $5 million Rural and Regional Health Career Scholarships Program, including eligibility criteria and opening dates, visit the NSW Health website.
These scholarships build on a series of measures The Minns Labor Government has introduced to strengthen the state’s health workforce including:
Implementing the Safe Staffing Levels initiative in our emergency departments
Providing permanent funding for 1,112 FTE nurses and midwives on an ongoing basis
Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the highest pay increase in more than a decade for nurses and other health workers
Investing an additional $200.1 million in key worker accommodation
Beginning to roll out 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural and remote communities
Boosting subsidies for regional health workers.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:
“Staffing our regional, rural and remote healthcare facilities is a major challenge.
“This year the program is expected to support 150 nursing and midwifery students, 100 medical and dentistry and 35 allied health students from regional, rural and remote locations while they undertake their healthcare studies.
“This Program is helping to strengthen our regional, rural and remote health workforce in NSW, which will result in improved experiences for patients living in these locations.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:
“Ensuring rural and regional communities have access to the best healthcare is a key priority for the Minns Government and also a significant challenge.
“These scholarships are not just a great opportunity for regional and rural students looking for a career in healthcare, but they will also play a part in helping recruit and retain healthcare workers in our regional communities.”
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
Murray: “We should all be deeply concerned about what it could mean to give Elon Musk and his cronies free rein at VA—I am already hearing that DOGE may have barged into VA today. Musk and his associates already have the personal financial information of every veteran receiving disability or education benefits because of their illegal data mining at the Department of Treasury. Will they now look at private health records of veterans? What else will they do that could put the health and safety of our veterans at risk? If Vought and Musk push to cut veterans benefits and limit healthcare eligibility as Project 2025 has outlined—would Doug Collins stand up to them?”
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, released the following statement after voting no on the nomination of Doug Collins to serve as Secretary of Veterans Affairs:
“Right now, the Trump administration is illegally withholding funding from communities across America, and they are ransacking and effectively gutting entire federal agencies—this kind of lawlessness is putting our economy, national security, and future at risk.
“Today I voted NO to confirm Doug Collins as VA Secretary because at this point I have not seen a single cabinet secretary stand up to Trump’s illegal power grab. We should all be deeply concerned about what it could mean to give Elon Musk and his cronies free rein at VA—I am already hearing that DOGE may have barged into VA today. Musk and his associates already have the personal financial information of every veteran receiving disability or education benefits because of their illegal data mining at the Department of Treasury. Will they now look at private health records of veterans? What else will they do that could put the health and safety of our veterans at risk? If Vought and Musk push to cut veterans benefits and limit healthcare eligibility as Project 2025 has outlined—would Doug Collins stand up to them? If this administration continues to press VA doctors, nurses, and support staff to resign—will Collins push back? I cannot confidently say he would.
“I had a productive meeting with Mr. Collins prior to his hearing and we will need to work together on many issues, including getting the Electronic Health Record system fixed, but I cannot vote to confirm him as Trump dismantles government and breaks the law. As I work with Mr. Collins to support our veterans, I will also be pressing him to follow the laws as intended by Congress.”
Senator Murray was the first woman to join the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the first woman to chair the Committee—as the daughter of a World War II veteran, supporting veterans and their families has always been an important priority for her. Senator Murray has fought throughout her career for increased benefits for veterans, housing assistance, better access to veterans’ clinics throughout Washington state, and more accountability from the VA.
Advocating for women veterans in particular has been a longtime focus for Senator Murray, and as Chair of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee in 2010, Senator Murray passed her landmark Women Veterans Health Improvement Act into law. Murray has worked to permanently authorize the VA child care pilot program to increase access to free, quality child care for veterans during their appointments, make much-needed improvements to the women veterans call center, and fix a loophole that left veterans footing the bill for medically-necessary emergency newborn transportation that VA should be covering. Murray introduced and helped pass the Deborah Sampson Act, legislation to address gender disparities at VA that established a dedicated Office of Women’s Health at VA and required every VA health facility to have a dedicated women’s health primary care provider, among other things. Murray also helped to pass the MAMMO Act to expand access to high-quality breast cancer screening and treatment services for veterans. Senator Murray leads the Veteran Families Health Services Act, comprehensive legislation that would expand fertility treatments—including IVF—and family-building services for servicemembers and veterans who are unable to conceive without assistance, and she has sought unanimous consent to pass the legislation on multiple occasions. Last March, Murray applauded VA’s move to expand IVF services to eligible unmarried veterans and eligible veterans in same-sex marriages, and allowing veterans to use donated gametes in IVF services.
Senator Murray has been conducting oversight on the flawed Electronic Health Record system rollout in Washington state since the Trump Administration first negotiated the contract with Cerner (later acquired by Oracle), and at every point in the process since then. Murray has consistently pushed VA on its failed implementation of EHR—conducting oversight, holding the administration accountable, and calling on VA to halt deployment of EHR until they get it right in Washington state. In March 2023, Murray introduced comprehensive legislation that would require VA to implement a series of EHR reforms to better serve veterans, medical personnel, and taxpayers. In the Fiscal Year 2024 funding bills, Senator Murray negotiated and passed as Chair of the Appropriations Committee stronger language to hold VA and Cerner accountable for the rollout of the EHR system, and in May 2024, she sent a letter urging VA to consider feedback on the system from providers and veterans in Spokane and Walla Walla and reiterating that VA must not move forward on the rollout of EHR until the myriad issues that have plagued the system in the locations where it has been launched are fixed.
Wellington drivers need to be ready for major maintenance works on Wellington’s urban motorway next week.
Full night closures, north and southbound, are planned from Sunday 9 February to Thursday 13 February, between 9pm and 4:30am.
The works are weather-dependent, so closures may be delayed into the following week if required.
While the resurfacing and maintenance work is underway, the motorway will be closed to northbound traffic between Karo Drive and Ngauranga Interchange.
It will also be closed to southbound traffic between the Terrace offramp and Vivian Street.
Drivers will have to use alternate routes to get in and out of Wellington city, and it means it will take drivers a little longer to get in and out of the central city.
Road users must plan ahead and allow extra time for their trips– particularly if they are heading to Wellington Hospital or Wellington Airport.
Planned works
Resurfacing work is planned for around five lane kilometres of the motorway’s northbound lanes between Aotea Quay onramp and the Ngauranga Interchange. This will help make the road’s surface safer and smoother.
To make the most of the closure and ensure as much work can be completed as possible, the Terrace Tunnel will also be closed for its annual Building Warrant of Fitness (BWoF) inspection. Because it is a vital piece of infrastructure, the tunnel must be inspected, tested, and maintained regularly.
Road crews will also complete other essential maintenance work during the closures. This includes renewing digital signs, streetlight maintenance, sign gantry assessments, carrying out structural inspections on overbridges and on and offramps, assessing safety barriers, clearing drains, removing graffiti, and clearing rubbish.
Works schedule and detour routes
Sunday, 9 February to Thursday 13 February. 9pm – 4:30am.
Traffic management set up from 7 pm – drivers can expect delays during this time.
Northbound closure
SH1 Urban Motorway closed between Karo Drive and Ngauranga Interchange
All northbound on and offramps will be closed – Clifton onramp, Tinakori onramp, Tinakori offramp, May Street onramp and Aotea Quay onramp.
Drivers should detour via Karo Drive – Willis Street – Customhouse/Waterloo/Aotea Quay – Hutt Road – Ngauranga Interchange. See the detour map below.
Southbound closure
SH1 Urban Motorway closed to southbound traffic between The Terrace offramp and Vivian Street
Drivers should detour via The Terrace offramp and Ghuznee/Victoria/Vivian Streets. See the detour map below.
Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) introduced the Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act (EFSIA), legislation that would grant the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the authority to collect microbial samples from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), also known as factory farms, during outbreaks or when there is a public health need.
Factory farming is at the heart of the spread of bird flu. The reintroduction of this legislation comes as public health experts raise alarms about the ongoing threat of H5N1, avian influenza, as variations continue to mutate, and in addition to persistent foodborne illness risks.
The CDC reports that 1 in 6 Americans suffer from foodborne illnesses annually, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. Many of these illnesses stem from bacteria and other microbes originating in animal agriculture. Over 55 percent of foodborne Salmonella cases are linked to animals and animal products. Harmful bacteria from animal production facilities also contaminate fields of produce, further endangering consumers.
Despite these clear threats, public health agencies currently lack the authority to conduct microbial sampling on factory farms, limiting their ability to investigate and prevent outbreaks. Investigators are frequently denied access to farms, obstructing efforts to pinpoint the source of outbreaks and implement safeguards.
“Every year, thousands of Americans fall victim to foodborne illnesses,” said Senator Booker. “Currently, the FDA lacks the jurisdiction to investigate outbreaks and identify the sources of contaminated food stemming from animal agriculture. This bicameral legislation will reduce the prevalence of foodborne diseases by empowering the FDA and other public health agencies to properly respond to and investigate outbreaks when they happen and get contaminated food off our grocery shelves.”
“It is clear that corporate consolidation has made our food system more vulnerable—not only to foodborne illness but also to emerging public health threats like H5N1,” said Representative DeLauro. “This crisis is exacerbated by a weak FDA, which lacks the authority to properly investigate outbreaks and remove contaminated food from the market. Under current law, multinational corporations can obstruct FDA foodborne illness investigations, delaying critical public health interventions. That cannot continue. That is why I am reintroducing the Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act, which will ensure FDA has the power to investigate corporate agribusinesses, respond effectively to public health threats, and protect American consumers.”
“The Expanded Food Safety Act would close a critical gap in our public health safety net by allowing outbreak investigators a chance to trace the source of outbreaks on large animal farms,” said Sarah Sorscher, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Center for Science in the Public Interest. “This common sense safeguard is long overdue and can help provide solutions to stop outbreaks at their source.”
The legislation is endorsed by American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Animal Rights Initiative, Antibiotic Resistance Action Center at The George Washington University, Associated Humane Societies, Center for Biological Diversity, Center for Food Safety, Center for Science in the Public Interest, Ceres Community Project, Chilis on Wheels, Compassionate Action for Animals, Consumer Federation of America, Consumer Reports, Earthjustice, Environmental Working Group, Farm Forward, Farm Sanctuary, Food and Water Watch, Food Animal Concerns Trust, Friends of the Earth, Godspeed Horse Hostel Inc, Government Accountability Project, Iowa Environmental Council, KWT Consulting, Mercy For Animals, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, Natural Resources Defense Council, Mercy For Animals, PIRG, San Francisco Bay Physicians for Social Responsibility, Slow Food USA, STOP Foodborne Illness, Strategies for Ethical & Environmental Development (SEED), Texas Humane Legislation Network, Vegan Activist Alliance, and World Animal Protection.
Exciting news! A permanent bronze statue to honour the legacy of pioneering cricketer Barbara Rae will be installed in Greater Bendigo later this year.
It follows the City of Greater Bendigo’s successful submission for funding from the Victorian Women’s Public Art Program to commemorate the 19 year old cricketer.
It is the first statue to honour a female cricketer in Victoria and only the second in Australia.
Bendigo is the birthplace of women’s cricket in Australia and the first match between the ‘Blues’ and the ‘Reds’ occurred as part of the Easter Fair in 1874 to raise funds for the Bendigo Hospital and Benevolent Asylum.
Primary school teacher Barbara Rae was pivotal in organising the inaugural match, recruiting players and running coaching sessions at local cricket grounds. At that time, women required permission to play in ‘male-only’ sports in public.
As captain of the winning Blues team, Barbara was the top scorer and named player of the match.
The inaugural match was initially deemed a success and attended by thousands. It was during the following days that match players faced hostility in many Victorian newspapers for what was considered ‘deplorable’ and ‘unseemly’ behaviour for women to play public sport.
Now, almost 151 years since that first match, Barbara Rae’s leadership and legacy lives on as women’s cricket in Australia thrives, with record-breaking crowds and participation levels.
The City made a submission to the Victorian Women’s Public Art Program last year and was shortlisted with 12 others from across the state. The program honours legacies of those who have forged a path for all Victorian women – reflecting diversity, and highlighting leadership, excellence, and service to the community across a range of fields.
The program’s aim is to address the under-representation of women and their achievements by funding six public artworks in Victoria.
Public engagement on the submissions attracted more than 10,000 submissions before a final decision was made by the Minister for Women. The statue of Barbara Rae is the first of the six successful projects to be announced publicly.
The artist involved in the project will be revealed soon and the statue is expected to be installed in the latter half of 2025 in Bendigo.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said it was fantastic news for the cricketer to be immortalised in this way.
“Barbara Rae paved the way for women’s cricket in Australia and it happened right here in Greater Bendigo,” Cr Metcalf said.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the community for getting behind the campaign for Barbara.
“Barbara was a trailblazer who challenged the values of 19th century society.
“This new statue will be an important landmark for Greater Bendigo and Australia’s cricketing history and a fitting tribute to Barbara’s legacy to women’s sport.”
Barbara Rae’s great granddaughter Diane Robertson said she was delighted to see Barbara honoured in this way.
“It has been such a thrill to see our great grandmother’s contribution recognised for what has now become an established and vibrant sport. Barbara set a wonderful example for women and girls in sport,” Ms Robertson said.
Last year’s Easter Festival marked the 150th anniversary of Australia’s first women match with a commemorative celebration at the Queen Elizabeth Oval and a representative T20 match between Bendigo and Ballarat. The anniversary event was supported by the City, the Bendigo Easter Fair Society, the Bendigo Historical Society, the Bendigo District Cricket Association and Cricket Victoria.
The Bendigo Historical Society held its inaugural exhibition, Frisky Matrons & Forward Spinsters to honour Barbara and women’s cricket in the region. The City’s Heritage Collections Officer Simone Ewenson curated the stunning exhibition.
Bendigo Easter Fair Society President Simon Mulqueen said the statue was a wonderful celebration of women’s cricket which began at the Bendigo Easter Fair in 1874.
“The Bendigo Easter Fair Society is extremely proud and excited about the Barbara Rae statue which represents the women who played the first game during the Bendigo Easter Fair in 1874. It was not easy for women to play the game that they loved as there was a lot of adversity. This is a wonderful acknowledgment,” Mr Mulqueen said.
Bendigo Historical Society President Euan McGillivray said it was important for Greater Bendigo.
“The Bendigo Historical Society is thrilled with the news. It’s a wonderful way to mark this moment in our history and pay tribute to Barbara Rae with a permanent statue,” Mr McGillivray said.
Many people looking to improve their health try to boost fibre intake by eating more vegetables.
But while all veggies offer health benefits, not all are particularly high in fibre. You can eat loads of salads and vegetables and still fall short of your recommended daily fibre intake.
So, which vegetables pack the biggest fibre punch? Here’s what you need to know.
What is fibre and how much am I supposed to be getting?
Fibre, or dietary fibre, refers to the parts of plant foods that our bodies cannot digest or absorb.
It passes mostly unchanged through our stomach and intestines, then gets removed from the body through our stool.
There are two types of fibre which have different functions and health benefits: soluble and insoluble.
Soluble fibre dissolves in water and can help lower blood cholesterol levels. Food sources include fruit, vegetables and legumes.
Insoluble fibre adds bulk to the stool which helps move food through the bowels. Food sources include nuts, seeds and wholegrains.
Both types are beneficial.
Australia’s healthy eating guidelines recommend women consume 25 grams of fibre a day and men consume 30 grams a day.
However, research shows most people do not eat enough fibre. Most adults get about 21 grams a day.
4 big reasons to increase fibre
Boosting fibre intake is a manageable and effective way to improve your overall health.
Making small changes to eat more fibrous vegetables can lead to:
1. Better digestion
Fibre helps maintain regular bowel movements and can alleviate constipation.
2. Better heart health
Increasing soluble fibre (by eating foods such as fruit and vegetables) can help lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce your risk of heart disease.
3. Weight management
High-fibre foods are filling, which can help people feel fuller for longer and prevent overeating.
Recent research published in prestigious medical journal The Lancet provided some eye-opening stats on why fibre matters.
The researchers, who combined evidence from clinical trials, found people who ate 25–29 grams of fibre per day had a 15–30% lower risk of life-threatening conditions like heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes compared to those who consumed fewer than 15 grams of fibre per day.
Vegetables are excellent sources of both soluble and insoluble fibre, along with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
The following veggies are some of the highest in fibre:
green peas
avocado
artichokes
parsnips
brussels sprouts
kale
sweet potatoes
beetroot
carrots
broccoli
pumpkin
Which vegetables are low in fibre?
Comparatively lower fibre veggies include:
asparagus
spinach (raw)
cauliflower
mushrooms
capsicum
tomato
lettuce
cucumber
These vegetables have lots of health benefits. But if meeting a fibre goal is your aim then don’t forget to complement these veggies with other higher-fibre ones, too.
Vegetables are excellent sources of both soluble and insoluble fibre – but some have more fibre than others. anna.q/Shutterstock
Does it matter how I prepare or cook the vegetables?
Yes.
The way we prepare vegetables can impact their fibre content, as cooking can cause structural changes in the dietary fibre components.
Some research has shown pressure cooking reduces fibre levels more greatly than roasting or microwave cooking.
For optimal health, it’s important to include a mix of both cooked and raw vegetables in your diet.
It’s worth noting that juicing removes most of the fibre from vegetables, leaving mostly sugars and water.
For improved fibre intake, it’s better to eat whole vegetables rather than relying on juices.
What about other, non-vegetable sources of fibre?
To meet your fibre recommendations each day, you can chose from a variety of fibre-rich foods (not only vegetables) including:
legumes and pulses (such as kidney beans and chickpeas)
wholegrain flour and bread
fruits
wholegrains (such oats, brown rice, quinoa, barley)
nuts and seeds (such as flaxseeds and chia seeds)
A fibre-rich day that meets a recommended 30 grams would include:
breakfast: 1⁄2 cup of rolled oats with milk and 1⁄2 cup of berries = about 6 grams of fibre
snack: one banana = about 2 grams
lunch: two cups of salad vegetables, 1⁄2 cup of four-bean mix, and canned tuna = about 9 grams
snack: 30 grams of almonds = about 3 grams
dinner: 1.5 cups of stir-fried vegetables with tofu or chicken, one cup of cooked brown rice = about 10 grams
supper: 1⁄2 a punnet of strawberries with some yoghurt = about 3 grams.
Bringing it all together
Vegetables are a key part of a healthy, balanced diet, packed with fibre that supports digestion, blood glucose control, weight management, and reduces risk of chronic disease.
However, the nutritional value of them can vary depending on the type and the cooking method used.
By understanding the fibre content in different veggies and how preparation methods affect it, we can make informed dietary choices to improve our overall health.
Lauren Ball receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council, Queensland Health and Mater Misericordia. She is a Director of Dietitians Australia, a Director of Food Standards Australia and New Zealand, a Director of the Darling Downs and West Moreton Primary Health Network and an Associate Member of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences.
Emily Burch 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 Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
02.04.25
Cantwell Votes NO On Advancing RFK Jr.’s Nomination for HHS Secretary
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, at a meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) voted no on advancing the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s nominee to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services.
“I wanted to vote for Mr. Kennedy in the context of my family’s history. My dad stood behind his father the night his father gave the famous speech. I told him in my office, in my family, the Kennedy’s stood up. But when he answered Senator Cassidy’s question, and he couldn’t even give him the answer — that yes, the data is there to support vaccines today — I don’t need any more data, all of a sudden.”
Sen. Cantwell continued: “I need someone at HHS who is going to say, we are going to be a leader in medical technology, science, vaccines, we are going to fight foreign powers, we are going to be there to provide global health. And I don’t want a recalcitrant. I need a leader. And that is why I’m voting no,” said Sen. Cantwell.
The speech Sen. Cantwell referenced was on the night of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination on April 4, 1968, when Sen. Robert F. Kennedy Sr. spoke in Indianapolis and delivered the tragic news to attendees. Her father, Paul Cantwell, was standing just behind the late Senator during that speech. Today, the Kennedy-King National Commemorative Site near the site of the speech honors both Dr. King and Sen. Kennedy.
Last week, Sen. Cantwell grilled Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his nomination hearing before the Senate Finance Committee on his anti-science and anti-vaccine views, and his promise to cut 600 employees from the National Institutes of Health:
“I represent a very big innovation state – innovation in health care, specifically. Innovation like NIH funding to the Fred Hutch Cancer Center that helped develop the HPV vaccine, which has the potential to eliminate over 95% of cervical cancer. NIH also funds a lot of jobs and grants – nearly 11,000 people in the State of Washington and over $1.2 billion worth grants,” Sen. Cantwell said last week during the nomination hearing. “I definitely am troubled by the medical research side of innovation, and some of the things that you have said. In fact, this issue about laying off 600 employees at NIH.”
Video of Sen. Cantwell’s Q&A with RFK Jr. during last week’s nomination hearing is available HERE; audio is HERE; and a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s questioning is available HERE. Our full press release on the nomination hearing is available HERE.
For decades, Sen. Cantwell has remained a staunch supporter of medical innovation and evidence-based science, including treatments for fentanyl addiction, abortion, vaccinations, stem cell research, and more.
Video of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks during today’s Finance Committee markup is available HERE, audio HERE, and transcript HERE.
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHIGNTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the bipartisan Rural Hospital Support Act to prevent rural hospital closures by extending and modernizing critical Medicare programs.
“As a lifelong resident of rural Iowa, I know the importance of having access to health care services close to home. In addition to providing life-saving care, rural hospitals are a source of economic security for many rural communities,” Grassley said. “Our bipartisan bill will ensure the continuity of these vital programs and help keep rural hospitals’ doors open.”
“Rural hospitals provide essential care to patients in rural communities, including to folks who rely on Medicare and Medicaid. In Vermont, rural hospitals are also job creators and economic drivers. But across the country, rural hospitals are struggling to stay open, and they need a lifeline,” Welch said. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure rural hospitals are reimbursed for resources they need to continue delivering vital care in our rural communities.”
Specifically, the Rural Hospital Support Act would:
Permanently extend the Medicare-Dependent Hospital (MDH) program to ensure eligible rural hospitals are reimbursed for their costs;
Permanently extend the Low-Volume Hospital (LVH) program to level the playing field for rural hospitals whose operating costs often outpace their revenue;
Update the rebasing year for Sole Community Hospitals (SCH) and MDHs to allow hospitals to tie reimbursement estimates to more recent trends in costs.
Cosponsors of the bill include Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.).
The Rural Hospital Support Act has garnered support from Iowa and national stakeholders, including the Iowa Hospital Association, MercyOne, UnityPoint Health, the Alliance for Rural Hospital Access, the American Hospital Association and the National Rural Health Association.
Download audio of Grassley discussing the bill HERE.
Find bill text HERE and a summary HERE.
Background:
Rural hospitals provide critical care for patients, many of whom rely on Medicare and Medicaid. These hospitals also serve as economic anchors – accounting for around 14 percent of total employment in rural areas.
The MDH and LVH programs have supported rural communities for decades. The programs were last extended as part of the Continuing Resolution on December 20, 2024, and would expire on March 31, 2025, without congressional action. The Rural Hospital Support Act does not change other rural hospital Medicare programs including critical access hospitals (CAH), rural referral centers (RRC), Rural Community Hospital Demonstration or the new voluntary rural emergency hospitals (REH). Each of these rural programs offer unique flexibilities to ensure health care services are accessible in rural America.
David Seymour’s speech at the Treaty Grounds today is widely anticipated. This week’s Free Press covers other matters, but for a preview of ACT’s Treaty approach, you can read Seymour’scolumn in the Herald.
The COVID Royal Commission, Mark II, designed by Brooke van Velden, is open to public submissions, and now there’san online portal to make it easy.After Labour’s attempted whitewash, ACT campaigned for people to be able to say what they think about the lockdowns, mandates, and other public health measures. There will be another pandemic, probably not this decade but almost certainly this century, and lessons learned from this one could be worth hundreds of billions of dollars.
If you don’t normally listen to Radio New Zealand, we understand. However Kathryn Ryan interviewed David Seymour for half an hour on the Regulatory Standards Bill, andwe think it’s worth an exception.
Owning the Wrong Stuff
Last Monday we shared David Seymour’s State of the Nation speech. This week it is still in the headlines. How is this possible? The speech said two things people know deep down are true, but politicians are afraid to say.
The Government owns the wrong stuff. Its books show $570 billion worth of assets, enough to build a four-lane highway from Whangarei to Invercargill six times, but you wouldn’t know it. The Government is having to downsize hospitals while the rest of the world is buying military hardware, and our roads and pipes need attention.
Meanwhile, in New Zealand, the Government is invested in houses (60,000), a property valuation firm, farms, electricity generators, and sunset industries such as mail and television, among many other weird and wonderful things.
Could it be an idea to, just maybe, just ask the question, without anyone getting their knickers in a knot: Does the Government own the right stuff. And if not, should it try selling some shares in power companies to invest in some roads and water treatment plants?
Perhaps all Governments should think of ownership like this. Every year we ask what we own, what benefits the public get from it, and could the Government own something with greater public benefits for the same money? If the answer is yes, and it doesn’t look like it’s going to change, then sell the thing that doesn’t pay and buy something that does.
As for healthcare and education, the Government shells out a fortune, nearly $6,000 in healthcare for every single person each year. That’s up from $4,000 five years ago, but nobody’s happy. Perhaps it is time to say, if you want to take your $6,000 to a private insurer like Southern Cross, you can.
There would have to be rules. The company would need to accept any patient who applied, without discrimination. The company could never cancel anyone’s policy. They would become responsible for all of the person’s care. Hospitals still owned by the Government would need to accept patients from any insurer at the same price.
If this all sounds out there, fear not. It’s roughly how most healthcare systems in Europe work. It means that there would be people with an incentive to sort out the endless waste and dysfunction in what’s been described as our third world system run by first world medics.
The Left say in a private system the poor miss out. Europeans would be surprised to hear this. What the Left don’t seem to get is this: You can have equal public funding, but allow competition to provide the service. Some would say the best of all worlds.
Of course there is a reason why few politicians dare to raise these questions. The media have demanded to know from David Seymour exactly what he will sell tomorrow. They want a list. The hard Left say this is another Seymourian conspiracy, but they can’t say what. The Opposition have called on the Chris Luxon to rule out ever selling anything. Luxon says he won’t now but might in the future.
There’s another reason why there are still articles in today’s papers, ten days after the speech was given. People know that, while New Zealand is a success story, as countries go, we’re not holding our ground at the moment. What we’re doing isn’t working.
If we want to remain a first world nation and an island paradise—most countries can only do one—we need to work differently. That’s the other thing about Seymour’s speech, it told the truth we avoided all through the Clark-Key-Ardern era.
As goes the Treaty Principles Bill, so goes this speech. This country needs a party that’s brave, articulate, and patriotic, and we’re glad we have ACT.
Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
WATCH KLOBUCHAR QUESTIONS HERE
WASHINGTON – At today’s Senate Judiciary hearing on the fentanyl epidemic, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) highlighted the need for Congress to take action to stop online drug trafficking to save children’s lives and give law enforcement what they need to combat the crisis.
Bridgette Norring of Hastings, Minnesota testified about her son’s death from illicit fentanyl. Norring’s 19-year old son Devin died in April 2020 after buying a pill online for tooth pain that he thought was a painkiller but turned out to be a fentanyl laced counterfeit.Bridgette founded the Devin J. Norring Foundation to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and advocate for stronger drug prevention measures.
“My husband and I are no different than every American parent doing the best we can to protect our kids from the constant threat that social media poses. We did our due diligence in spot-checking our children’s accounts when they were minors. We preached constantly about internet safety and etiquette. None of that stopped Snapchat from allowing my children to open multiple new accounts to avoid our scrutiny. It did not stop them from pushing products designed to addict and exploit America’s young people. It did not stop them from blaming parents when our kids died. And it is no different than when opioid companies created a product they knew was extremely harmful and addictive, told the public that it was safe, and then blamed the parents when kids died as a result,”said Norringat the hearing.
“Social media has been a gateway to drugs for too many kids, and we must meet this threat with the all-hands-on-deck response it requires. We need to crack down on the sale of fentanyl through social media platforms and pass the Cooper Davis and Devin Norring Act. And we need to stop these illicit drugs and fake pills from entering our borders in the first place, by making sure law enforcement has the resources they need, including cutting-edge technology to detect and intercept fentanyl at our borders. Thank you to Bridgette Norring for her bravery in coming forward and sharing her story,”said Klobuchar in a statement.
In 2023, nearly 75,000 Americans lost their lives to synthetic opioids like fentanyl, including nearly 950 opioid-related deaths in Minnesota. In Hennepin County, fentanyl kills an average of one resident every day. The number of Minnesotans who died from opioids last year was more than double the total number of people who died from car accidents.
Senator Klobuchar is a leader in the fight to pass theCooper Davis and Devin Norring Act, which would require social media companies to report to the DEA when they know of the sale or distribution of illicit drugs including fentanyl, methamphetamine, or a counterfeit controlled substance on their platforms.
Witnesses at the hearing include:
Bridgette Norring Survivor Parent and Founder Devin J. Norring Foundation Hastings, MN; Jaime Puerta President and Co-Founder of Victims of Illicit Drugs (“V.O.I.D.”) Co-Chair of Project Facing Fentanyl Santa Clarita, CA; Timothy W. Westlake, M.D., FFSMB, FACEP Emergency Physician ProHealth Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital Oconomowoc, WI; Cecilia Farfán, Ph.D. Affiliated researcher Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation, University of California San Diego San Diego, CA; Donald Barnes Vice President of Homeland Security, Major County Sheriffs of America Sheriff-Coroner of Orange County, California Orange County, CA.
A transcript of Klobuchar’s full questioning is available below. Video is availableHERE.
Senator Klobuchar:Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Ms. Norring, I think everyone was touched by your story and your bravery for coming forward. I’ve been honored to get to know you, and I want to thank you for everything that you’ve done. As you said, “all the hopes and dreams we as parents had for Devin were erased in the blink of an eye, and no mom should have to bury their kid.” Those were your words. And I know the words of your all of your friends there that stand there to support you and have had their own pain. All he did was buy a pill off Snapchat. Thought it was a Percocet. You were there for that testimony with the tech executives, and there’s a bunch of us here that have had some battle wounds going after them when we just want to put some sensible rules in place or get rid of this legal protections that they have that other companies do not have, as you so well pointed out, but no wounds compared to what you have. You heard their testimony back then in January 2024. Do you think the social media companies are doing enough to stop the sale of drugs to kids online?
Bridgette Norring:I do not think that they are doing enough. In fact, it’s still continuing. I was introduced to two new families just last week from Minnesota, both with ties to fentanyl, with their children passing, so no, they’re not doing enough. They could be doing more. I was just informed that Evan Spiegel is in support of theCooper Davis and Devin Norring Act. And I must ask then if you are in such support of it, all these companies are in support of the Kids Online Safety Act. Why? Why aren’t they implementing those features and doing the job now? Why do we have to come before Congress and … have you make them do that?
Klobuchar:Good point, thank you. Mr. Puerta, do you think we should get rid of or reform Section 230 in some way? Just to make this very clear.
Jaime Puerta:Absolutely,Senator Klobuchar. In 1996, as we all know, this legislative body came up with Section 230 C of the Communication Decency Act, and what it was meant to do was to protect free speech. But what’s happening right now cannot be free speech. When you have a drug dealer selling illicit fentanyl to unsuspecting children, that’s not free speech. Or a grown man sending unwarranted pictures to young ladies, sexual exploitation. This is not free speech. This is criminal behavior. And like Ms. Norring said, if it’s criminal, if it’s a criminal act in the real world, then it should be as well in the social media world.
Klobuchar:So you’re looking for that reform, which also I appreciate you bringing up Senator Cruz and I have thisTAKE IT DOWN Act. There’s a number of other bills involving pornography as well. Sheriff Barnes, … thank you for your testimony and being here. Funding, as we look into this next year, funding for law enforcement, do you think that that is important to take on this Fentanyl crisis, as well, as well as the HIDTA program that helps your deputies get fentanyl off the streets?
Donald Barnes:Senator, yes, thank you for the question. The HIDTA funding has been stagnant and still for the last 10 years. Hasn’t grown. If you look at the time value of money, it’s about 1/3 reduction over the last 10 years, and our costs have gone up, so it’s about 50 cents on the dollar. It’s not a fully funded program. My HIDTA program is funded at about 1/6 of the costs that we put into it and mostly subsidized through my investment of stabilizing that as other municipal agencies have withdrawn personnel. So yes, I think at this, the nation’s worst time in history, we have to reinvest those monies. We have to look at the use of those monies. And I think we have to look at what I call a Super HIDTA, the original intent of the gateway HIDTA, to invest on the greatest offense, which is our border HIDTA, and stop as much as drugs as we can at the border before they make it into the content of the United States.
Klobuchar: Thank you. Dr Westlake, why does class-wide scheduling reduce the incentives for drug cartels to create new fentanyl variants?
Timothy Westlake:So the incentives were there before because when they initially created these without under the normal Controlled Substances Act, they were legal. So they could modify it. Instead of putting an ethyl group in, you could put a methyl group in. It’s a legal substance. I was on the controlled substance board in Wisconsin 2015. We had nine different fentanyl variants, fentanyl-related substances that were killing people. We could schedule them immediately, and then they were illegal. And when you schedule them and make them illegal, there’s no incentive for them to be created anymore, and there’s a cookbook of changes that you can do easily, look up the research to find what different chemicals to use. So, it literally just stops the incentive. It doesn’t stop illicit fentanyl incentive, but it closes the speculative fentanyl substances.
Klobuchar:Thank you. One last point. Ms. Norring, and we’ll talk more in this committee. I am so pleased that Senator Grassley and Durbin will lead this together on some of the social media issues that go way beyond the ones we’ve talked about now. But you’ve also embarked on an education campaign, along with a lot of our sheriffs in Minnesota, that I think has been pretty effective going back in the schools with “One Pill Can Kill.” Ten seconds on that, and I’m out of time.
Norring:We have to do it because nobody else is doing it. It falls back on us. If we sit by and say nothing, children continue to die. So we feel it’s our obligation to get out there educate our community and the children because, as the ranking chair mentioned, the conversation really begins at home. It really has to begin at home.
Infrastructure upgrades near completion in advance of expected miner deliveries
205 MW Vega project advancing on track for Q2 2025 energization
MIAMI, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hut 8 Corp. (Nasdaq | TSX: HUT) (“Hut 8” or the “Company”), a leading, vertically integrated operator of large-scale energy infrastructure and one of North America’s largest Bitcoin miners, today released its operations update for January 2025.
“With infrastructure upgrades for our initial fleet upgrade near completion, we believe we are well-positioned to energize new miners upon expected delivery in the coming weeks,” said Asher Genoot, CEO of Hut 8. “While these upgrades resulted in downtime during the month, we remain focused on optimizing returns from our existing fleet, leveraging Reactor to dynamically curtail operations, particularly at our Alpha site, where power prices were elevated.”
“We continue to execute on key growth initiatives across our digital infrastructure layer. Data center construction at Vega is progressing rapidly, keeping us on schedule for energization in Q2 2025 as we prepare for the launch of our ~15 EH/s colocation agreement with BITMAIN. As we focus on AI data center development, we also advanced and expanded our development pipeline.”
Highlights
Infrastructure upgrades near completion in advance of expected miner deliveries for initial fleet upgrade
Data center construction at Vega progressing rapidly, on track for Q2 energization (image to left)
Advanced AI data center development opportunities across development pipeline
Operating Metrics
Average during the period unless otherwise noted1
January 2025
December 2024
Total energy capacity under management (mining)2,3,4
665 MW
665 MW
Total deployed miners under management5
115.3K
121.4K
Total hashrate under management6
12.7 EH/s
13.2 EH/s
Self-Mining7
Deployed miners8,9
47.1K
53.2K
Deployed hashrate10
5.0 EH/s
5.5 EH/s
Bitcoin produced3,11
65 BTC
89 BTC
Bitcoin held in reserve3,12
10,208 BTC
10,171 BTC
Managed Services13
Energy capacity under management3
280 MW
280 MW
Deployed miners under management9
85.7K
85.5K
Hashrate under management
9.4 EH/s
9.4 EH/s
Hosting
Deployed miners under management9,14
68.1K
68.2K
Hashrate under management15
7.7 EH/s
7.7 EH/s
Energy Infrastructure Platform3
Current/Contracted Revenue Stream(s)16
Site
Location
Owner17
Power Capacity
Self- Mining
Managed Services
Hosting
HPC
Power Sales
Vega18
Texas Panhandle
Hut 8
205 MW
Yes19
Medicine Hat
Medicine Hat, AB
Hut 8
67 MW
Yes
Salt Creek
Orla, TX
Hut 8
63 MW
Yes
Alpha
Niagara Falls, NY
Hut 8
50 MW
Yes
Drumheller20
Drumheller, AB
Hut 8
42 MW
Kelowna
Kelowna, BC
Hut 8
1.1 MW
Yes
Mississauga
Mississauga, ON
Hut 8
0.9 MW
Yes
Vaughan
Vaughan, ON
Hut 8
0.6 MW
Yes
Vancouver II
Vancouver, BC
Hut 8
0.5 MW
Yes
Vancouver I
Vancouver, BC
Hut 8
0.3 MW
Yes
King Mountain21
McCamey, TX
Hut 8 (JV)
280 MW
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Iroquois Falls22
Iroquois Falls, ON
Hut 8 (JV)
120 MW
Yes
Kingston22
Kingston, ON
Hut 8 (JV)
110 MW
Yes
North Bay22
North Bay, ON
Hut 8 (JV)
40 MW
Yes
Kapuskasing22
Kapuskasing, ON
Hut 8 (JV)
40 MW
Yes
Total
1,020 MW
Upcoming Conferences & Events
February 24–25, 2025: Capacity Media Metro Connect USA, Fort Lauderdale
February 24–28, 2025: Bitcoin Investor Week, New York
February 25–27, 2025: Infocast ERCOT Market Summit, Austin
March 3–6, 2025: Morgan Stanley Energy & Power Conference, New York
Notes:
(1)
All figures exclude Hut 8’s managed services agreement with Ionic Digital Inc. (“Ionic”), which was terminated effective December 10, 2024.
(2)
Energy capacity under management (mining) includes (i) 180 MW of self-mining sites comprised of Alpha, Medicine Hat, and Salt Creek, (ii) 205 MW of hosting capacity at Vega, which is currently under construction, and (iii) 280 MW of capacity under management at King Mountain.
(3)
As of the end of the period.
(4)
Includes 205 MW of capacity at Vega as the site is expected to host miners for BITMAIN.
(5)
Includes all miners that are racked with power and networking, rounded to the nearest 100, in Self-Mining, Managed Services, and Hosting infrastructure with power and networking, including all miners at the King Mountain site.
(6)
Includes all Self-Mining, Managed Services, and Hosting hashrate, including 100% of the hashrate at the King Mountain site.
(7)
Self-Mining operations for Hut 8 include 100% of operations at the King Mountain site.
(8)
Deployed miners are defined as those physically racked with power and networking, rounded to the nearest 100; deployed self-mining miners net of the 50% share of the King Mountain JV held by Hut 8’s joint venture partner was 38.4K during January 2025 and 44.5K during December 2024.
(9)
Miners are rounded to the nearest 100.
(10)
Indicates the target hashrate of all deployed miners; deployed self-mining hashrate net of the 50% share of the King Mountain JV held by Hut 8’s joint venture partner was 4.7 EH/s during both January 2025 and December 2024.
(11)
Bitcoin produced net of the 50% share of the King Mountain JV held by Hut 8’s joint venture partner was 51 BTC during January 2025 and 74 BTC during December.
(12)
Includes 968 Bitcoin pledged and transferred to a third-party wallet to finance Hut’s previously announced fleet upgrade.
(13)
Managed Services includes 280 MW of capacity under management at King Mountain.
(14)
34.1K deployed miners under management net of the 50% share of the King Mountain JV held by Hut 8’s joint venture partner during January 2025 and December 2024.
(15)
3.8 EH/s under management net of Hut 8’s joint venture partner’s 50% share of the King Mountain JV during both January 2025 and December 2024.
(16)
Reflects revenue sources to Hut 8, its subsidiaries, and/or joint ventures in which they participate.
(17)
Owned denotes ownership of power infrastructure at owned or leased data center locations, except for HPC sites where owned denotes ownership of mechanical and electrical infrastructure at leased data center locations.
(18)
Site is currently under development.
(19)
Anticipated to begin generating revenue by Q2 2025.
(20)
Site currently shut down; Hut 8 maintaining lease with option value of re-energizing site.
(21)
Owned by a JV between Hut 8 and a Fortune 200 renewable energy producer in which Hut 8 has an approximately 50% membership interest.
(22)
Owned by a JV between Hut 8 and Macquarie in which Hut 8 has an approximately 80% membership interest.
About Hut 8
Hut 8 Corp. is an energy infrastructure operator and Bitcoin miner with self-mining, hosting, managed services, and traditional data center operations across North America. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Hut 8 Corp. has a portfolio comprising fifteen sites: five Bitcoin mining, hosting, and Managed Services sites in Alberta, New York, and Texas, five high performance computing data centers in British Columbia and Ontario, four power generation assets in Ontario, and one non-operational site in Alberta. For more information, visit www.hut8.com and follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @Hut8Corp.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward–Looking Information
This press release includes “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and United States securities laws, respectively (collectively, “forward-looking information”). All information, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that Hut 8 expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including such things as future business strategy, competitive strengths, goals, expansion and growth of the business, operations, plans and other such matters is forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often identified by the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “allow”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “predict”, “can”, “might”, “potential”, “predict”, “is designed to”, “likely” or similar expressions. Specifically, such forward-looking information included in this press release includes statements relating to the completion of the Company’s infrastructure upgrades, the timing of the delivery and energization of Company’s initial fleet upgrade, the Company’s execution on key growth initiatives, the timing for the buildout and energization of the Company’s Vega site, and the Company’s continuing progress and expansion of its development pipeline.
Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts, but instead represent management’s expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events based on certain material factors and assumptions at the time the statement was made. While considered reasonable by Hut 8 as of the date of this press release, such statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to, security and cybersecurity threats and hacks; malicious actors or botnet obtaining control of processing power on the Bitcoin network; further development and acceptance of the Bitcoin network; changes to Bitcoin mining difficulty; loss or destruction of private keys; increases in fees for recording transactions in the Blockchain; erroneous transactions; reliance on a limited number of key employees; reliance on third party mining pool service providers; regulatory changes; classification and tax changes; momentum pricing risk; fraud and failure related to digital asset exchanges; difficulty in obtaining banking services and financing; difficulty in obtaining insurance, permits and licenses; internet and power disruptions; geopolitical events; uncertainty in the development of cryptographic and algorithmic protocols; uncertainty about the acceptance or widespread use of digital assets; failure to anticipate technology innovations; the COVID19 pandemic, climate change; currency risk; lending risk and recovery of potential losses; litigation risk; business integration risk; changes in market demand; changes in network and infrastructure; system interruption; changes in leasing arrangements; failure to achieve intended benefits of power purchase agreements; potential for interrupted delivery, or suspension of the delivery, of energy to mining sites and other risks related to the digital asset mining and data center business. For a complete list of the factors that could affect Hut 8, please see the “Risk Factors” section of Hut 8’s Transition Report on Form 10-K, available under the Company’s EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov, and Hut 8’s other continuous disclosure documents which are available under the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov.
Hut 8 Corp. Investor Relations Sue Ennis ir@hut8.com
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Royalty Corp. (TSX: DIV and DIV.DB.A) (the “Corporation” or “DIV”) is pleased to announce that its board of directors has approved a cash dividend of $0.02083 per common share for the period of February 1, 2025 to February 28, 2025, which is equal to $0.25 per common share on an annualized basis. The dividend will be paid on February 28, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on February 14, 2025.
About Diversified Royalty Corp.
DIV is a multi-royalty corporation, engaged in the business of acquiring top-line royalties from well-managed multi-location businesses and franchisors in North America. DIV’s objective is to acquire predictable, growing royalty streams from a diverse group of multi-location businesses and franchisors.
DIV currently owns the Mr. Lube + Tires, AIR MILES®, Sutton, Mr. Mikes, Nurse Next Door, Oxford Learning Centres, Stratus Building Solutions and BarBurrito trademarks. Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading quick lube service business in Canada, with locations across Canada. AIR MILES® is Canada’s largest coalition loyalty program. Sutton is among the leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor businesses in Canada. Mr. Mikes operates casual steakhouse restaurants primarily in western Canadian communities. Nurse Next Door is a home care provider with locations across Canada and the United States as well as in Australia. Oxford Learning Centres is one of Canada’s leading franchisee supplemental education services. Stratus Building Solutions is a leading commercial cleaning service franchise company providing comprehensive janitorial, building cleaning, and office cleaning services primarily in the United States. BarBurrito is the largest quick service Mexican restaurant food chain in Canada.
DIV’s objective is to increase cash flow per share by making accretive royalty purchases and through the growth of purchased royalties. DIV intends to continue to pay a predictable and stable monthly dividend to shareholders and increase the dividend over time, in each case as cash flow per share allows.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “will”, ”project”, “should”, “believe”, “confident”, “plan” and “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements made in relation to: the amount and timing of the February 2025 dividend to be paid to DIV’s shareholders; DIV’s objective to continue to pay predictable and stable monthly dividends to shareholders; and DIV’s corporate objectives. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events, performance, or achievements of DIV to differ materially from those anticipated or implied by such forward-looking information. DIV believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information included in this news release are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In particular there can be no assurance that: DIV will be able to make monthly dividend payments to the holders of its common shares; or DIV will achieve any of its corporate objectives. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking information included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance, and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. More information about the risks and uncertainties affecting DIV’s business and the businesses of its royalty partners can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of its Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2024 and in its most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, copies of each of which are available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ atwww.sedarplus.com.
In formulating the forward-looking information contained herein, management has assumed that, among other things, DIV will generate sufficient cash flows from its royalties to service its debt and pay dividends to shareholders; the business and economic conditions affecting DIV and its royalty partners will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.
All of the forward-looking statements made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, DIV. The forward-looking information included in this news release is presented as of the date of this news release and DIV assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.
THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR THE ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Additional Information
Additional information relating to the Corporation and other public filings, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.
Contact: Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer Diversified Royalty Corp. (236) 521-8470
Lake Alice Hospital, one of many institutions investigated by the abuse-in-state-care inquiry.Wikimedia Commons, CC BY
A new study using a large collection of demographic data has revealed the lasting and damaging consequences for children placed in state care between 1950 and 1999 – including huge disparities in life expectancy compared with the general population.
The study utilised the Stats NZ Integrated Data Infrastructure – a large collection of linked data sets about people and households from across many government agencies, Stats NZ surveys, and non-government organisations.
From a substantial sample of approximately 20,000 children placed in care between 1950–1999, the study also found about 11% of this group had subsequently died, on average much younger than the rest of the population.
The causes of death were also generally more violent, though self-harm, motor vehicle accidents and assaults, at rates greater than the general population.
These findings support the conclusions of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State Care, which exposed significant harms experienced by Māori tamariki (children) and whānau (families), revealing systemic failures and breaches of te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi.
Inside the demographic data
The Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI) allows researchers to conduct cross-sector research, to track a broad range of outcomes, compare them with the general population, and potentially explore links across generations.
We examined a range of social and health outcomes for a group of children in state care between 1950–1999. Information about these children was collected from handwritten records of state care institutions.
These lists were matched by officials in the Ministry of Health and the Department of Corrections. All identifiable information (names, birth dates, addresses, etc.) were removed or encrypted and made available to our research team from Stats NZ.
We linked this initial group to the IDI and retrieved records of available socio-demographic, health and life-event data. We were left with a list of just over 20,000 children, a substantial sample of the many hundreds of thousands of children placed in care during this time.
Life expectancy and cause of death
Basic demographic information reflects what is already widely known about children placed in state care: they are overwhelmingly male and Māori.
The birth years of the children are also significant. We see an increase in placement into state care of children who were born between 1960 and 1989. The Royal Commission’s final report records that the disproportional representation of Māori children in state care begins at this point, as shown in the graph below.
The government approach of the times, as espoused in the 1961 Hunn report into the Department of Māori Affairs, was to assimilate Māori into the European way of life. The effects of state action to deal with Māori perceived to have fallen short of these expectations can clearly be seen in these data.
By 2018, the sample group of children in our study were in their late 40s. Using mortality data, we know that approximately 11% of this group have died. Astonishingly, they have an average age at death of 46 years, compared to an average age of 70 for people in the general population born at the same time.
This corresponds to an average 24 years of life lost for those in state care. We can extrapolate this further when we examine the primary causes of death in this group and compare them with the general population.
Cancer, heart disease and strokes are the primary causes in the general population. These causes tend to increase with age; you are more likely to be affected the longer you live. As those in state care are less likely to reach old age, they have lower rates of death from these conditions.
Rather, we see they are subject to much more violent deaths through self-harm, motor vehicle accidents and assaults, at rates many times greater than the population at large.
Historical context and modern policy
As the Royal Commission of Inquiry documented so thoroughly, tamariki Māori were placed in environments where tikanga Māori was disregarded, their whakapapa and whenua were disconnected, and their identity as Māori denied.
Many faced neglect, abuse, and the loss of connection to mātauranga and wairua, leaving trauma that continues to affect whānau today.
The royal commission’s report coincided with the National-led government’s reintroduction of military-style youth training academies for young offenders, colloquially known as “boot camps”.
In mid-2024, Prime Minister Christopher Luxton dismissed concerns from the chief commissioner for children about the policy:
I don’t care what you say about whether it does or doesn’t work. We can have that intellectual conversation all day long, but we are […] going to try something different because we cannot carry on getting the results that we’ve been getting.
Based on our research findings – together with the royal commission’s report and significant international and local evidence about the real risks of such policies – we would argue the current approach in New Zealand needs to be revisited.
More broadly, extensive international scholarship demonstrates Indigenous people are particularly and uniquely affected by longstanding trauma through colonisation. Specific acts of oppression that remain unaddressed often result in the inter-generational transfer of trauma and trauma responses.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, as with many other colonised Indigenous territories, the forced removal of Māori children from their families to be placed in a range of state and church institutions was a key plank of colonial policy and practice.
We must accept that poor outcomes across a range of areas in health, welfare, education and justice exist within a historical and contemporary context. Those impacts are linked across generations and affect whānau to this day.
A paper based on these findings will be submitted for publication shortly. Research is continuing to expand the analyses explored here and to link outcomes across affected generations.
We would like to acknowledge Tui Barrett, Professor Tim McCreanor and Professor Helen Moewaka Barnes for their input and guidance.
If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP)
Belinda Borell receives funding from Nga Pae o Te Maramatanga, Centre for Research Excellence at the University of Auckland, and the Health Research Council of New Zealand.
Jose S. Romeo receives funding from Nga Pae o Te Maramatanga, Centre for Research Excellence at the University of Auckland and the Health Research Council of New Zealand.
Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
(Concord, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined Granite State health care leaders to discuss the importance of preventing health care costs from skyrocketing, including by passing her bicameral legislation, the Health Care Affordability Act, to make permanent the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits (PTCs) for Marketplace coverage. If these credits are not extended, in New Hampshire alone, 10,000 Granite Staters would be priced out of their health insurance. The enhanced PTCs have led to record enrollment in ACA coverage, including more than 68,000 in New Hampshire, and a record low uninsured rate nationwide. In addition to Shaheen, participants included New Futures President, Michele Merrit, Lamprey Health Care CEO, Greg White and National Alliance on Mental Illness New Hampshire Executive Director, Susan Stearns. You can find photos from the event here.
“For too many Americans, exorbitant costs are the biggest obstacle to purchasing health insurance leading to rationing medications and delaying appointments. Without an extension of the Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits, that will only get worse,” said Senator Shaheen. “My bill to extend these lifesaving tax credits was the first I introduced this Congress because we need to act now to protect access to health care and prevent costs from rising at the end of this year.”
The Health Care Affordability Act would make permanent the ACA PTCs for Marketplace coverage as passed in the American Rescue Plan Act and extended through the Inflation Reduction Act. Those enhanced tax credits increase the value of the tax credits available to people with income between 100 and 400 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL), while expanding eligibility for premium tax credits to include individuals with income above 400 percent of FPL.
At the end of last year, Shaheen, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), U.S. Representatives Richard E. Neal (D-MA-01) and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14), as well as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. House of Representatives Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, secured new data from the U.S. Congressional Budget Office (CBO) detailing the impact on Americans’ health insurance should the ACA enhanced PTCs expire at the end of 2025. Shaheen’s legislation is cosponsored by 41 Senators.
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
[embedded content]
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) spoke on the U.S. Senate floor today to detail his decision to vote for Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to serve as U.S. Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Cassidy delivered the speech after voting to advance Kennedy’s nomination in the U.S. Senate Finance Committee. The nomination now awaits a full vote in the U.S. Senate.
Cassidy’s speech as prepared for delivery can be found below:
Mr. President, I’d like to make a statement regarding my vote in Committee on behalf of Robert F. Kennedy to be the Secretary of HHS. First, I thank everyone who has contacted me over the last few days. Almost all have been respectful and seek the best for our country. And I’ve been contacted by text, by phone, by email. And if I did not respond to anyone, it was not to be rude. It’s just I was getting hundreds of messages a day personally and thousands through the office. And I just physically could not.
Now Mr. President, believe it or not, of these hundreds of people calling me or contacting me, however they did, many of them disagreed with each other. Diametrically, three dimensionally, they disagreed. But the unifying factor is that they all desire the best for our country, even though they differ from each other so much. And maybe that kind of frames my feelings about this nomination.
For context, before entering politics, before ever thinking running for political office, I practiced medicine for 30 years in a public hospital for the uninsured. Caring for those who otherwise would not have been able to afford the access to the care that I provided. After seeing patients die from vaccine preventable diseases, I dedicated much of my time to vaccine research and immunization programs. Personally witnessing the safety monitoring, and the effectiveness of immunization. But simply, vaccines save lives.
This is the context that informed me when considering Robert F. Kennedy Jr as the nominee to be Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.
It was a decision I studied exhaustively. I took very seriously. As I said I would, I spoke with Mr. Kennedy not once, but multiple times over the weekend, including this morning. We had in-depth conversations about the medical literature and the science behind the safety of vaccines. He referred me to studies and people. I reviewed them and spoke to those whom he mentioned I should speak to.
Now, the most notable opponents of Mr. Kennedy were pediatricians on the front lines of our children’s health who regularly have to combat misinformation; combating vaccine skepticism with correct information—correct information that comes from their education, training and experience as physicians. They are aware of the falling vaccine rates and the inevitability of increasing hospitalizations and deaths of children from vaccine-preventable diseases. They are aware that children are now contracting diseases that they would not have contracted if the children were vaccinated.
I heard from others impassioned about the need to address chemicals in our food, and a belief that we are victims of large, impersonal forces maximizing profits while sacrificing our health. There is evidence for that. Although food safety is principally a USDA concern, I strongly agree that this is an issue society must address.
Other RFK supporters are concerned regarding environmental risk. They fear these risks are being ignored by authorities. Mr. Kennedy’s history of environmental activism motivates their support. I pointed out that the Environmental Protection Agency monitors this, not the Department of Health and Human Services but they still feel that he can make a difference.
So, as I looked how to resolve this, I returned to where I began. Would it be possible to have Mr. Kennedy collaborate in helping public health agencies re-earn the trust of the American people?
Regarding vaccines, Mr. Kennedy has been insistent that he just wants good science and to ensure safety. But on this topic, the science is good, the science is credible. Vaccines save lives. They are safe. They do not cause autism. There are multiple studies that show this. They are a crucial part of our nation’s public health response.
But as someone who has discussed immunizations with thousands of people, I do recognize that many mothers need reassurance that the vaccine their child is receiving is necessary, effective, and most of all safe.
While I am aligned with Mr. Kennedy as regards to ultra-processed foods, reforming NIH, taking on chronic disease—once more, it still leaves vaccines.
Now, Mr. Kennedy and the administration reached out seeking to reassure me regarding their commitment to protecting the public health benefit of vaccination.
To this end, Mr. Kennedy and the administration committed that he and I will have an unprecedently close collaborative working relationship if he is confirmed. We will meet or speak multiple times a month. This collaboration will allow us to work well together and therefore to be more effective.
Mr. Kennedy has asked for my input into hiring decisions at HHS, beyond Senate-confirmed positions. This aspect of our collaboration will allow us to represent all sides of those folks that were contacting me this weekend.
He has also committed that he would work within the current vaccine approval and safety monitoring systems, and not establish parallel systems. If confirmed, he will maintain the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices without changes. CDC will not remove statements on their website pointing out that vaccines do not cause autism. Mr. Kennedy and the administration also committed that this administration will not use the subversive techniques employed under the Biden administration, like sue and settle, to change policies enacted by Congress without first going through Congress.
Mr. Kennedy and the administration committed to a strong role of Congress. Aside from us meeting regularly, he will come before the Committee on a quarterly basis, if requested. He committed that the HELP Committee Chair, whether it’s me or someone else, may choose a representative on any board or commission formed to review vaccine safety.
If he is confirmed, HHS will provide a 30-day notice to the HELP Committee if the agency seeks to make changes to any of our federal vaccine safety monitoring programs, and HELP Committee will have the option to call a hearing to further review.
These commitments, and my expectation that we can have a great relationship to make America healthy again, is the basis of my support. He will be Secretary, but I believe he will also be a partner in working for this end.
If Mr. Kennedy is confirmed, I will use my authority as Chairman of the Senate Committee with oversight of HHS to rebuff any attempts to remove the public’s access to life-saving vaccines without ironclad, causational scientific evidence that can be defended before the mainstream scientific community and before Congress. I will carefully watch for any effort to wrongfully sow public fear about vaccines between confusing references of coincidence and anecdote.
But my support is built on assurances that this will not have to be a concern and that he and I can work together to build an agenda to make America healthy again.
We need a leader at HHS who will guide President Trump’s agenda to Make America Healthy Again. Based on Mr. Kennedy’s assurances on vaccines and his platform to positively influence Americans’ health, it is my consideration that he will get this done.
As I’ve said, it’s been a long, intense process. But I’ve assessed it as I would assess a patient as a physician. Ultimately, restoring trust in our public health institutions is too important and I think Mr. Kennedy can get that done. And as Chairman of the Senate committee with oversight authority of HHS, I will do my best to make sure that is what we accomplish.
I want Mr. Kennedy to succeed in making America healthy again. His success will be tied to the health of our nation. He has the opportunity to address the most pertinent issues affecting Americans’ health. We also need to reform our health institutions like FDA and NIH. Those, as already been indicated, are my priorities as Chairman of HELP Committee. I look forward to his support in accomplishing this.
If confirmed, I look forward to working together with Mr. Kennedy to achieve President Trump’s mission of improving the health of all Americans.
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and John Cornyn (R-TX), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), introduced a bipartisan bill authorizing the formal designation of an African Diaspora Heritage Month to recognize and reaffirm the significant contributions of the African diaspora to the growth and prosperity of the United States. The month is traditionally celebrated by the diaspora community in September.
“The African diaspora has contributed so much to the fabric of our nation, local communities, and our economy,” said Kaine. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to recognize this vibrant community’s achievements by designating a federal African Diaspora Heritage Month.”
The legislation was also cosponsored by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the SFRC Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy.
“I know the invaluable impact the African diaspora has made in New Jersey and across our country,” said Booker. “Millions of African immigrants and citizens contribute to the fabric of our nation with their rich culture and heritage. As Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, I’m humbled to work across the aisle to recognize this community and work to designate a federal African Diaspora Heritage Month.”
Virginia is home to more than 115,000 African immigrants, thousands of whom are small- and medium-sized business owners who have helped bring more than $205 million in international trade to the Commonwealth. The African Diaspora in the U.S. is comprised of approximately 50 million people. In March 2022, the Virginia General Assembly passed a resolution to designate September as Virginia African Diaspora Heritage Month.
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA), alongside a group of 37 senators, wrote to President Trump strongly condemning the President’s recent order to remove Inspectors General (IGs) from at least 18 government agencies and called on the President to immediately reinstate the officials. According to the Inspector General Independence and Empowerment Act, which was signed into law in 2022, the President is required to provide a 30-day notice and substantive reasons for removal in writing to Congress before an Inspector General can be removed. President Trump failed to alert Congress or provide substantive reasoning.
In Virginia, IGs have played key roles in much-needed oversight, including over the quality of the United States Postal Services’ work, and in responding to the horrific animal abuse committed by Envigo Global Services against 4,000 beagles in Cumberland County.
“These officials, which include those appointed by Presidents of both parties, including many during your first Administration, collectively conduct oversight of trillions of dollars of federal spending and the conduct of millions of federal employees,” wrote the senators. “Removing these non-partisan watchdogs without providing a substantive and non-political reason is not lawful, and undermines their independence, jeopardizing their critical mission to identify and root out waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs.”
The senators continued, “While the President has the authority to remove Inspectors General from office, Congress has established clear requirements to ensure such removals are transparent and are not politicized. The law requires that the President provide a written 30-day notice to both Houses of Congress and include “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons for any such removal or transfer.” With respect to your firings Friday night, Congress has not received either the mandatory 30-day notice or a rationale for their removal. Because your actions violated the law, these Inspectors General should be reinstated immediately…”
IGs are responsible for providing independent oversight of federal programs and play a key role in improving government efficiency and effectiveness. IGs were removed from at least 18 departments and agencies, including Departments of Defense, State, Education, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Energy, Commerce, Agriculture, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Personnel Management, the Small Business Administration, the Social Security Administration, and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction.
In addition to Warner and Kaine, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and John Fetterman (D-PA).
The full text of the letter is available here and below.
Dear Mr. President,
Your decision Friday evening to remove Inspectors General (IGs) from at least 18 offices across government—including those overseeing the Departments of Defense, State, Education, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Energy, Commerce, Agriculture, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Personnel Management, the Small Business Administration, and the Social Security Administration, as well as the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction—does not comply with current law and could do lasting harm to IG independence. These officials, which include those appointed by Presidents of both parties, including many during your first Administration, collectively conduct oversight of trillions of dollars of federal spending and the conduct of millions of federal employees. Removing these non-partisan watchdogs without providing a substantive and non-political reason is not lawful, and undermines their independence, jeopardizing their critical mission to identify and root out waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs.
Inspectors General are responsible for providing independent oversight of federal programs by working to root out waste, fraud, and abuse and protect taxpayer dollars – oversight our federal agencies desperately need. They play a key role in improving government efficiency and effectiveness and have helped identify and recover billions of taxpayer dollars. IG independence is the foundation of this work, and IGs must be free of political influence so that they can carry out their important mission with integrity and credibility. The federal government and the American people count on these officials to operate in a professional and non-partisan way to hold our government accountable—regardless of who is in power. Without strong, qualified, and independent officials to lead these critical efforts, the Administration risks wasting taxpayer dollars, and allowing fraud and misconduct to go unchecked. For example, just this week the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued an unlawful memo directing agencies to pause nearly all federal grants and loans, which significantly disrupts the administration of over a trillion dollars of critical assistance to communities, businesses, and organizations across the country. It is especially vital to have independent watchdogs at each of these agencies to conduct oversight of the impacts of this unconstitutional and unprecedented directive.
While the President has the authority to remove Inspectors General from office, Congress has established clear requirements to ensure such removals are transparent and are not politicized. The law requires that the President provide a written 30-day notice to both Houses of Congress and include “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons for any such removal or transfer.” With respect to your firings Friday night, Congress has not received either the mandatory 30-day notice or a rationale for their removal. Because your actions violated the law, these Inspectors General should be reinstated immediately, until such time as you have provided in writing “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” for each of the affected Inspectors General and the 30-day notice period has expired.
Lastly, if you believe it is necessary to place any of the affected IGs on administrative leave before the 30-day notice period has ended, the law requires that you submit a separate notification to Congress explaining how the IG presents a threat as defined in the Administrative Leave Act.
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), co-chair of the Senate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus and a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Susan Collins (R-ME), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the Jumpstarting Our Businesses by Supporting Students (JOBS) Act, bipartisan legislation to help more Americans get good-paying jobs by allowing students to use federal Pell Grants—need-based education grants for lower-income individuals—to pay for shorter-term job training programs for the first time. Currently, students can only use Pell Grants for two- and four-year colleges and universities. By expanding Pell Grant eligibility, the JOBS Act would help close the skills gap by allowing people to access job training they might otherwise be unable to afford but need for careers in high-demand fields.
“No one should be priced out of an education—including a technical education—but I hear from many Virginians that access to high-quality job training programs that align with their goals is out of reach because of financial barriers,” said Kaine. “Simultaneously, I hear from employers throughout the Commonwealth about their struggles to fill skilled labor positions. With these Virginians in mind, I wrote the JOBS Act to help remedy these issues and provide more workers with the skills they need to get good-paying jobs and provide for their families. This bill is good for workers, good for employers, and good for our economy as a whole.”
Thanks to historic investments like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the job market has boomed in recent years. From January 2021–January 2025, the U.S. economy added 14.8 million jobs. But there’s also a skilled labor shortage that is expected to intensify in the coming years, in part because unemployed Americans lack access to the job training needed to fill vacant jobs.
“Job training programs are proven, successful tools that help people gain the skills they need to prepare for rewarding careers,” said Collins. “By helping students in Maine and across the country access this career pathway, this bipartisan legislation would assist young people with obtaining good-paying jobs and make it easier for businesses to find qualified workers.”
“Some of the most in-demand jobs don’t require a four-year college degree — they require shorter-term training. People like welders, machine operators and medical technicians. We need to make it easier to get people into these career fields, and letting students use Pell Grants to make it happen just makes sense,” said Smith. “This bill will open up more career opportunities for people and will help boost our economy.”
“The JOBS Act will provide an incredible opportunity for students that increasingly don’t find the value of a four-year degree,” said Marshall. “With a changing job market, our legislation will give Americans the chance to learn critical skills for a successful career. I look forward to getting the JOBS Act across the finish line with my colleagues.”
“We’re so grateful that Senator Kaine has reintroduced the JOBS Act, and is willing to continue advocating for this important legislation which will re-skill and upskill our citizens who want to improve their income and the lives of themselves and their families,” said Virginia Community College System Chancellor David Doré. “Thousands of Virginians are eager to learn new skills to advance their careers and would benefit from being able to use Pell Grants to pay for high quality workforce training for in-demand jobs. We urge Congress to support Senator Kaine’s JOBS Act.”
The JOBS Act would allow Pell Grants to be used for high-quality job training programs that are at least eight weeks in length and lead to industry-recognized credentials or certificates. Under current law, Pell Grants can only be applied toward programs that are over 600 clock hours or at least 15 weeks in length, rendering students in shorter-term high-quality job training programs ineligible for crucial assistance.
Specifically, the JOBS Act would amend the Higher Education Act by:
Expanding Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in rigorous and high-quality, short-term skills and job training programs that lead to industry-recognized credentials and certificates and ultimately employment in high-wage, high-skill industry sectors or careers.
Ensuring students who receive Pell Grants are earning high-quality postsecondary credentials by requiring that the credentials:
Meet the standards under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), such as meaningful career counseling and aligning programs to in-demand career pathways or registered apprenticeship programs
Are recognized by employers, industry, or sector partnerships
Align with the skill needs of industries in the state or local economy
Are approved by the state workforce board in addition to the U.S. Department of Education
Defining eligible job training programs as those providing career and technical education instruction at an institution of higher education, such as a community or technical college that provides:
At least 150 clock hours of instruction time over a period of at least 8 weeks
Training that meets the needs of the local or regional workforce and industry partnerships
Streamlined ability to transfer credits so students can continue to pursue further education in their careers
Students with licenses, certifications, or credentials that meet the hiring requirements of multiple employers in the field for which the job training is offered
The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AR), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dan Sullivan (D-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
The JOBS Act is supported by Advance CTE, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), Business Roundtable, the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (ECA), Higher Learning Advocates (HLA), HP Inc., the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), Jobs for the Future (JFF), the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, NAF, the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB), the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), the National Skills Coalition (NSC), the Progressive Policy Institute (PPI), Rebuilding America’s Middle Class (RAMC), and the Virginia Community College System.
Full text of the bill is available here, and a summary of the bill is available here.
Six Auckland organisations tackling health inequity and poverty have received a major boost, with the ProCare Charitable Foundation announcing $210,000 in grants to support initiatives that promote community health and wellbeing.
This year’s recipients are:
Auckland Women’s Centre Inc
BabyStart Charitable Trust
Dance & Arts Therapy NZ
Garden to Table Trust
Orange Sky NZ Ltd
Warriors Community Foundation.
ProCare Foundation Chair, Peter Didsbury, says: “Every dollar granted reflects our commitment to addressing health inequities and empowering organisations working on the frontlines of our communities. This funding is an investment in healthier futures for all Aucklanders.”
“It’s inspiring to see the creativity and dedication these organisations bring to tackling some of our toughest social and health challenges. Their mahi aligns perfectly with the Foundation’s mission – to support the health and well-being of disadvantaged communities by delivering health-related activities that improve a community’s wellbeing, or reduce health inequalities and alleviate poverty and deprivation in the Auckland region,” concludes Didsbury.
The Foundation was established by the shareholders of ProCare Health Limited in 2013 with Trustee and Administration services being provided by Public Trust.
Glenys Talivai, CEO of Public Trust, says: “Empowering local organisations with targeted funding creates ripple effects and positive outcomes for the larger community. Our work with the ProCare Charitable Foundation is a powerful way to uplift organisations that provide care and protection for society’s most vulnerable. We are proud to be the trustee and manage the granting programme and congratulate the six organisations receiving funding.”
Since the establishment of the ProCare Charitable Foundation, it has granted more than $2 million in funding to increase community health and wellbeing in the Greater Auckland Region.
Recipients of the ProCare Charitable Foundation funding, as selected at the end of 2024 are:
Organisation: Auckland Women’s Centre Inc
Project: Supporting no/low-cost counselling: supervision, triage, referrals, and client-counsellor matching.
The centre facilitates empowerment and wellbeing for all women in Tāmaki Makaurau via education, counselling, brief crisis support, peer support, advice and referral, community kōrero, advocacy, and safe space. In 2025, they will offer five student counsellors, up from 3.5 in 2024 and two in 2023. Their counsellors are of different ethnicities, ages and interests who meet the needs of diverse women.
Organisation: BabyStart Charitable Trust
Project: Supporting infant and maternal care packages for Auckland families.
BabyStart’s purpose is to alleviate poverty, encourage positive parenting and safe sleep practices, and encourage engagement with maternal health services through the provision of high-quality infant care packages. This funding will go towards baby boxes with baby clothing and care items for high needs whānau based on need and availability.
Organisation: Dance & Arts Therapy NZ
Project: Dance movement and arts therapy for 80+ vulnerable children
Their mission is to provide unwavering support to the mental health and disability sectors through dance movement and arts therapy. They serve individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, mental health challenges, low-income children and survivors of abuse. The funding will cover facilitation, materials, coordination, venue hire, and administration, delivering 108 sessions for at-risk children and 128 sessions for children with disabilities.
Organisation: Garden to Table Trust
Project: Supporting salary for programme coordinators – Auckland.
The Garden to Table programme is currently running in 85 schools and ECEs in Greater Auckland (excluding South Auckland). The programme is typically run as a regular session in school where tamariki learn the skills they need to grow fresh produce, harvest it, prepare and cook it. Children do everything for themselves and are encouraged to take their learning home to share with family and whānau.
Organisation: Orange Sky NZ Ltd
Project:Laundry & shower service for those experiencing homelessness and hardship.
In Auckland, they operate two vans, an internal laundry at HomeGround (Auckland City Mission), and a pod in South Auckland. Through these services, they aim to raise dignity and mana for individuals experiencing homelessness and hardship, supporting their health and wellbeing. By offering clean clothes and access to showers, they foster a sense of self-worth and community connection, addressing both immediate needs and the long-term goal of improving lives in the wider Auckland region.
Organisation: Warriors Community Foundation
Project: Supporting health-focused programmes promoting physical, mental well-being, and inclusivity.
The Tupu Maia programme is dedicated to promoting the health and wellbeing of intermediate-aged girls by advancing education on physical and mental wellness. The programme focuses on building confidence, self-esteem, and physical activity through structured lessons on nutrition, hydration, sleep, and mental resilience. By fostering a supportive environment, Tupu Maia encourages participants to develop lifelong habits that improve both their physical and mental health.
About the ProCare Foundation
The ProCare Foundationwas established by the shareholders of ProCare who gifted more than 90% of their shares to the Foundation in 2013. The purpose of the Foundation is to help promote the health and wellbeing of disadvantaged communities, deliver health-related activities that improve a community’s wellbeing, or reduce health inequalities and alleviate poverty and deprivation in the Auckland region. For more information about the Foundation and previous grant recipients, click here or visit www.procare.co.nz
World Cancer Day is an international day observed every 4 February to raise awareness about cancer, encourage its prevention, and mobilise action to address the global cancer epidemic. Cancer is a major health concern worldwide, being the second-leading cause of death globally. The World Cancer Day theme 2025-2027, “United by Unique” places people at the centre of care and explores new ways of making a difference.
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan has again urged warring parties to stop targeting civilians.
Clementine Nkweta-Salami issued a statement on Tuesday lamenting the “relentless” intensifying shelling, air and drone strikes against civilians in the Darfur and Kordofan regions, and other conflict-affected areas.
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and military rivals the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been locked in a battle for power since April 2023, causing widespread death, destruction and displacement.
Indiscriminate attacks ‘deeply alarming’
“Reports of continued indiscriminate attacks on homes, markets and displacement camps are deeply alarming,” said Ms. Nkweta-Salami. “This is not warfare – this is a ruthless assault on human life.”
Furthermore, “the use of starvation as a weapon of war against innocent people in Al Fasher, North Darfur, is appalling.”
She stressed that the laws of war are clear, noting that all sides to the conflict have a legal and moral obligation to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
“The world cannot look away as civilians are caught in the crossfire, bearing the brunt of a war that continues to disregard the most fundamental rules of armed conflict and international humanitarian law,” she said.
The senior official once again called on all sides to respect international humanitarian law, stop targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, and allow immediate, unimpeded humanitarian access to those in need.
“This war must not continue to be fought at the expense of the lives of innocent Sudanese children, women and men,” she said.
Gaza ceasefire must hold, UN relief chief notes during visit to Israel and OPT
The UN’s top aid official continues his week-long visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory focused on engaging with authorities, aid partners and those on the frontlines of the humanitarian response.
Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher was in Nir Oz in southern Israel on Tuesday, where a quarter of all residents were killed or taken hostage in the Hamas-led attack on 7 October 2023.
In a social media post, he stressed that the ceasefire must hold, that all civilians must be protected, and that all hostages must be freed.
Aid to Gaza
Mr. Fletcher also held several meetings with Israeli officials, both on Tuesday and on Monday night.
They discussed ways to sustain the surge of humanitarian support to Gaza, as well as the ongoing challenges in the West Bank, where violence has risen.
The UN and humanitarian partners estimate more than 565,000 people have crossed from the south of Gaza to the north since 27 January, while more than 45,000 people have been observed making the journey from the north to the south.
Mr. Fletcher arrived in the region on Monday and met Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, in addition to holding separate talks with the president of the Palestine Red Cresent Society.
Regular mammograms can help find breast cancer at an early stage.
WHO honours people affected by cancer on World Day against the disease
This Tuesday, 4 February, is World Cancer Day and UN health agency WHO is honouring the courage of people affected by the disease and celebrating scientific progress to treat it.
“Every minute, 40 people are diagnosed with cancer globally, and embark on a journey to overcome it,” WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted in a post on the social media platform X.
He said that “around the world, WHO is working with partners to create global coalitions, catalyze local action and amplify the voices of people affected by cancer.”
Its efforts to improve the lives of millions include providing medicines for paediatric cancers as well as a global campaign aimed at eliminating cervical cancer.
Tedros also used the commemoration of World Cancer Day to affirm WHO’s commitment to health for all.
The Public Health Surveillance Strategy 2025-2030 is designed to strengthen our public health surveillance system to better support increased life expectancy with quality of life for New Zealanders.
The strategy was a collaboration between the Public Health Agency with the wider Ministry, Health New Zealand, and ESR. Extensive consultation with the wider surveillance sector informed its development.
Public health surveillance is the collection and dissemination of health or health-related information to plan and implement initiatives to help keep people healthy, and protect them from new health threats, such as disease outbreaks.
Sources of information for public health surveillance can be drawn from across the health system, government, and wider society. They include laboratory test results, mortality data, wastewater testing, global health data, mosquito surveillance, health surveys, clinician reporting, and even retail spending.
The health system has an obligation to protect and improve the health of New Zealanders. This cannot be achieved without the well-coordinated and systematic collection of public health information. The strategy outlines an approach to public health surveillance based on ensuring the confidentiality, privacy and protection of people’s personal health data. It supports using information only to support protecting and improving the health of New Zealanders.
The strategy identifies four strategic directions. These include:
strengthening governance, leadership, and coordination
focussing on the things that matter
responding to emerging challenges and opportunities
Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to vote on the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
As prepared for delivery:
“We meet today to vote on the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
“Mr. Kennedy, if confirmed, will have the opportunity to deliver much needed change to our nation’s health care system.
“He has spent his career fighting to end America’s chronic illness epidemic and has been a leading advocate for health care transparency, both for patients and for taxpayers.
“Mr. Kennedy has also clearly responded to our questions during the rigorous due diligence process, his hearing, and in the course of answering over nine hundred questions for the record that were asked by Members of this Committee.
“In response to Members of this Committee, Mr. Kennedy has even amended his ethics agreement, going beyond what is required by the Office of Government Ethics.
“Mr. Kennedy has proven his commitment to the role of Secretary of HHS, and I will vote in favor of his nomination.
“I strongly encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do the same.
“With that, I recognize Ranking Member Wyden for his remarks.”
Joint statement by UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell and WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on the occasion of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
NEW YORK/GENEVA, 6 February 2025 – Female genital mutilation is a violation of human rights that inflicts deep and lifelong physical, emotional, and psychological scars on girls and women. This harmful practice affects more than 230 million girls and women today. An estimated 27 million more girls could endure this violation of their rights and dignity by 2030 if we do not take action now.
Today, on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, and in response to the theme “Stepping up the pace: Strengthening alliances and building movements to end female genital mutilation”, UNFPA, UNICEF and WHO reaffirm our commitment to work together with countries and communities to end this harmful practice — once and for all.
There is hope. Many countries have seen a decline in the prevalence of female genital mutilation. We are witnessing progress in countries like Kenya and Uganda, where collaborative action and community-led initiatives are proving that by strengthening alliances and building movements, we can accelerate change.
Since the launch of the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation in 2008, and in collaboration with WHO, close to 7 million girls and women access prevention and protection services. Additionally, 48 million people have made public declarations to abandon the practice, and 220 million individuals were reached by mass media messaging on the issue. In the last two years, close to 12,000 grassroots organizations and 112,000 community and frontline workers galvanized to effect change at this critical juncture.
Yet the fragility of progress made has also become starkly evident. In the Gambia, for example, attempts to repeal the ban on female genital mutilation persist, even after an initial proposal to do so was rejected by its parliament last year. Such efforts could gravely undermine the rights, health, and dignity of future generations of girls and women, jeopardizing the tireless work over decades to change attitudes and mobilize communities.
Of the 31 countries in which data on prevalence are collected nationally, only seven countries are on track to meet the Sustainable Development Goal of ending female genital mutilation by or before 2030. The current rate of progress must accelerate urgently to meet this target.
This requires strengthened alliances among leaders, grassroots organizations, and across sectors spanning health, education, and social protection — as well as sustained advocacy and expanded social movements with girls and survivors at the centre.
It demands greater accountability at all levels to ensure commitments to human rights are upheld and policies and strategies are implemented to protect girls at risk and provide care, including justice, for survivors. It also requires increased investment in scaling up proven interventions. We are indebted to generous donors and partners who are supporting this life-changing work and call on others to join them.
We all have a role to play to ensure that every girl is protected and can live free from harm. Let’s step up the pace and act with urgency. The time to end female genital mutilation is now.
###
Notes to Editors
About the UNFPA–UNICEF Joint Programme The UNFPA–UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation: Delivering the Global Promise works to eliminate female genital mutilation through interventions in 17 countries where the practice is prevalent. The programme creates opportunities for girls and women to realize their rights in health, education, income and equality to help end the power imbalances that underpin this harmful practice.
About UNFPA UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. UNFPA’s mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. UNFPA calls for the realization of reproductive rights for all and supports access to a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services, including voluntary family planning, quality maternal health care and comprehensive sexuality education.
About UNICEF UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, works to protect the rights of every child, everywhere, especially the most disadvantaged children and in the toughest places to reach. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we do whatever it takes to help children survive, thrive, and fulfil their potential.
Dedicated to the well-being of all people and guided by science, the World Health Organization leads and champions global efforts to give everyone, everywhere an equal chance at a safe and healthy life. We are the UN agency for health that connects nations, partners and people on the front lines in 150+ locations – leading the world’s response to health emergencies, preventing disease, addressing the root causes of health issues and expanding access to medicines and health care. Our mission is to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable.
For more information about WHO and its work visit: www.who.int
Gulfport, Miss. – Hospital Corpsman Second Class Xihang Cong, a naturalized American citizen, continues to work every day in the Navy Reserve to achieve the phenomenal success she could only dream about as a teenager who settled in Milton, Florida with her mother and step-father.
Cong is a 2021 graduate of Pace High School, who enlisted in the United States Navy under a Training and Administration of the Reserves (TAR) contract, providing full-time support to the Navy Reserve. She currently serves as the Assistant Leading Petty Officer of Navy Reserve Center (NRC) Gulfport’s medical department. She is responsible for the medical and dental readiness of the 300 Selected Reserve Sailors assigned to 15 reserve units who drill in Gulfport.
Originally born and raised in Jilin, China by her grandparents, she credits her success to the value of a strong work ethic instilled at a young age by her native culture, which was uniquely blended with an American sense of independence, self-sufficiency, and persistence when she immigrated as a young woman.
Reflecting on her adolescence, Cong discussed her challenges in assimilating, “My mom and my stepdad had no idea how to counsel me on how to fit into my new school or what steps to take to pursue a new career. I had to rely on myself, but I listened to and observed others and learned a lot from my peers and teachers at school.”
Petty Officer Cong settled in Milton, Florida because her stepfather, a veteran of the British Royal Navy, works as a defense contractor servicing the maintenance requirements of the aviation squadrons in Naval Air Station Whiting Field. She was inspired to participate in the Pace High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) and her JROTC unit competed in and won multiple drill competitions in the Gulf Coast. Discipline was instilled in her from a young age, later inspiring her to enlist as a hospital corpsman with aspirations to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She currently attends Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College where she is earning her associates degree.
Her educational background serves her well in the fast-paced and chaotic environment of a typical drill weekend at NRC Gulfport. Gulfport is the homeport of the Atlantic Seabees, including the Seventh Naval Construction Regiment and Naval Construction Battalions Fourteen and Two Seven. Reserve Seabees comprise approximately one third of the Navy Reserve Center’s constituency, and Cong leads her department in ensuring all Sailors in these units maintain individual medical readiness as a prerequisite for mobilization readiness to remote locations world-wide.
Since her accession in 2022, she has planned four Reserve Health Readiness Program events and Navy medical provider support for over 30 drill weekends to ensure her Sailors have access to medical care at all times. She and her team have successfully screened over 50 individual augmentees for mobilization and her department has earned phenomenal marks in two consecutive mass activation exercises.
Vice Admiral Nancy Lacore, chief of the Navy Reserve and commander, Navy Reserve Force, highlights the importance of posturing the Reserve Force for warfighting, “Our Sailors, operational units, and readiness units of action are our weapons system. We are prepared for the mission, ready to fight and win decisively on Day One. Our Training and Administration of the Reserves (TAR) community will ensure our Navy Reserve Activities (NRA)…are able to mobilize the entire Force within 30 days. NRA leaders will maintain 80% warfighting readiness across the Force.”
To that end, Cong’s diligent efforts and leadership have led Navy Reserve Center Gulfport to achieve an astounding 96% Total Force medical readiness for consecutive years. Cong learned very quickly in this fast-paced environment and discussed her proudest accomplishment as having achieved the rank of petty officer second class in less than three years of service. As a newly minted second class petty officer, Cong believes in the power of mentorship and has now embraced her role in training both active and reserve component junior Sailors.
Cong still remembers her hometown after her meteoric rise, attributing her success to the welcoming atmosphere at her high school and JROTC unit. Specifically, she wants to recognize her English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, Mrs. Colvin Kirti, for counseling her on how to achieve her goals by breaking them down into smaller and achievable action steps.
Having served her career dedicated to the readiness of her reserve Sailors, Petty Officer Cong discussed her thoughts on the Navy Reserve’s Strategic Advantage, “The reserve Sailors are only here for two days of the month. We [the staff] have to track and be ready to administer exams and vaccinations. It is our responsibility to help them out because they have full time (civilian) jobs.”
Cong’s story is the embodiment of the American dream. She is an excellent example of a citizen Sailor who has a passion for serving her new country while balancing the demands of off-duty education to further accelerate her career. Now seeing her new proteges excelling and emulating her work ethic, she is proud to give back to the country and the Navy who has given so much to her. She concluded, “It is an honor.”
Immigrants to the U.S. increasingly arrive like these people, seeking asylum at a formal border crossing, rather than trying to sneak across the border.Carlos Moreno/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Undocumented immigration is a key issue in American politics, but it can be hard to nail down the basic facts about who these immigrants are, where they live and how their numbers have changed in the past few decades.
The remaining 27% – around 13.7 million people – are outside those categories and therefore generally considered to be undocumented.
My analysis shows that the number of undocumented immigrants held steady at around 11 million between 2007 and 2019. In the next four years, the numbers increased by nearly 3 million. This recent growth is mostly attributable to large increases in border crossings by migrants from Central and South America who were seeking asylum or other forms of humanitarian relief. Starting in June 2024, however, the number of people entering across the U.S.-Mexico border fell back to normal levels when the Biden administration implemented the Secure the Border rule, which suspends asylum applications at the border when crossings reach a seven-day average of 2,500.
These changes were accompanied by changes in the undocumented migration process itself. In the past, undocumented immigrants often entered the country by slipping undetected across the U.S. border with Mexico. But increased border enforcement made the journey more dangerous and expensive.
Instead of paying smugglers or risking their lives in the desert, growing numbers of undocumented immigrants now either directly approach immigration officials at airports or land-border crossings and seek asylum in the U.S. Others are initially admitted to the country legally on a temporary tourist, student or work visa – but then overstay the time period for which they have permission.
Additionally, growing numbers of undocumented immigrants occupy what might be called a “liminal” or “in-between” status. The Migration Policy Institute analysis estimates this encompasses a range of groups as of the middle of 2023, including:
About 2.1 million people awaiting a decision on their asylum claims.
521,000 parolees, allowed into the U.S. for humanitarian or national security reasons, like those paroled recently from Afghanistan and Ukraine.
654,000 people who hold temporary protected status because it would be unsafe for them to return home due to armed conflict, natural disasters and other emergencies.
562,000 who are protected by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program because they were brought to the United States as children by their parents.
The report estimates that just over one-quarter of undocumented immigrants currently occupy this type of “in-between” status. These immigrants are protected from deportation. Some even have a legal right to work in the U.S. Yet they do not possess a durable legal immigration status, and their rights could be threatened by policy changes.
Since 1980, Mexicans have been the largest single national origin group in the United States. I found that 10.9 million Mexican-born individuals were living in the country in 2023, making up 23% of all immigrants. The second-largest group, immigrants from India, numbered just 2.9 million, or 6% of all immigrants living in the U.S.
However, immigrants’ origins have been shifting away from Mexico.
With the onset of the Great Recession of 2007-2009, work opportunities in U.S. construction and manufacturing evaporated. Many Mexican laborers had been working in construction at the time but went back to Mexico when the U.S. housing market collapsed.
This trend was especially pronounced among undocumented immigrants. I found that Mexicans made up about 51% of the undocumented immigrants who arrived in the country 10 or more years ago. Central Americans made up 20%, and the remaining originated from other regions.
However, undocumented migrants now come from across the globe. Among undocumented immigrants who arrived within the past 10 years, 19% came from Mexico. Larger shares came from Central America and South America. While some of these new migrants seek work, others flee crime, economic and ecological disasters, and political persecution in their home countries.
Duration of residence
Most immigrants, whether they are in the U.S. legally or illegally, have lived in the United States for many years. Just under half of foreign-born individuals have lived in the country for two decades or more, and more than two-thirds have lived in the country for at least 10 years. Only 20% arrived within the past five years.
This is a dramatic change from the early 2000s, when less than 10% of immigrants had been in the U.S. for more than two decades, and more than one-third had arrived within the previous five years.
That means many of the people who are likely to be targeted for deportation in the coming months are settled, long-term members of American society.
Place of residence
As of 2023, 6.6 million immigrants reported on the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey that they moved to the United States in the past five years.
However, the effects of these new immigrants on American communities has been uneven. Although most communities are more racially and ethnically diverse now than in the past, the numbers of newly arrived immigrants are relatively low in most places.
Fifteen states host fewer than 20,000 immigrants, and 33 states are home to fewer than 100,000. In contrast, over half of new arrivals live in just five states: California, Florida, Illinois, New York and Texas are the home of over half of new arrivals yet have only 37% of the U.S. population. Other states such as Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Washington also are home to large and growing immigrant populations.
The U.S. immigrant population is changing rapidly. In the early years of the 21st century, Mexican immigrants dominated undocumented immigration flows to the United States. Decades later, many of these people continue to live in the country.
In the past four years, however, the flow of undocumented people increased dramatically. These new arrivals tend to come from troubled nations in Central and South America, many of whom are protected from deportation and have a legal right to work in the U.S. Altogether, most undocumented immigrants either have lived in the country for decades or have legal protections.
Neither of these groups fit the profile of undocumented immigrants who are typically targeted for deportation.
Jennifer Van Hook receives funding from the National Institutes of Health. She is a nonresident fellow of the Migration Policy Institute.
Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
Bipartisan bill would extend key Medicare rural hospital programs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), members of the Senate Finance Committee, introduced the bipartisan Rural Hospital Support Act, legislation to prevent rural hospital closures by extending and modernizing critical Medicare programs. The Senators’ legislation would permanently extend the Medicare-Dependent Hospital (MDH) program to ensure eligible rural hospitals are reimbursed for their costs. The bill would also permanently extend the Low-Volume Hospital (LVH) program to level the playing field for rural hospitals whose operating costs often outpace their revenue.
Rural hospitals provide critical care for patients, many of whom rely on Medicare and Medicaid. These hospitals also serve as economic anchors – accounting for around 14% of total employment in rural areas.
“Rural hospitals provide essential care to patients in rural communities, including to folks who rely on Medicare and Medicaid. In Vermont, rural hospitals are also job creators and economic drivers. But across the country, rural hospitals are struggling to stay open, and they need a lifeline,” said Senator Welch. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure rural hospitals are reimbursed for resources they need to continue delivering vital care in our rural communities.”
“As a lifelong resident of rural Iowa, I know the importance of having access to health care services close to home. In addition to providing life-saving care, rural hospitals are a source of economic security for many rural communities,” said Senator Grassley. “Our bipartisan bill will ensure the continuity of these vital programs and help keep rural hospitals’ doors open.”
The MDH and LVH programs have supported rural communities for decades. The programs were last extended as part of the Continuing Resolution on December 20, 2024, and would expire on March 31, 2025, without congressional action.
The Rural Hospital Support Act does not change other rural hospital Medicare programs including critical access hospitals (CAH), rural referral centers (RRC), Rural Community Hospital Demonstration, or the new voluntary rural emergency hospitals (REH). Each of these rural programs offer unique flexibilities to ensure health care services are accessible in rural America. Additionally, the bill would also update the rebasing year for Sole Community Hospitals (SCH) and MDHs to allow hospitals to tie reimbursement estimates to more recent trends in costs.
In addition to Sens. Welch and Grassley, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.).
The Rural Hospital Support Act has garnered support from national stakeholders, including the Alliance for Rural Hospital Access, American Hospital Association, Iowa Hospital Association, MercyOne, National Rural Health Association, and UnityPoint Health.
Learn more about the Rural Hospital Support Act.
Read the full text of the bill.
Safety Net Providers on The Frontlines of Serving Communities in Denver and Across Colorado Are Nearing Financial Crisis
DENVER — Today, as community health centers and other vital providers struggle to stay open amid tightening budgets, jeopardizing care for many Coloradans, Lt. Governor Primavera partnered with Representative Kyle Brown, Colorado health care workers, and providers to discuss a forthcoming piece of legislation to address the growing cost challenges faced by safety net health care providers while reducing health care costs for state employees and small businesses.
“We’ve made progress in lowering the cost of health care and insurance for hardworking families but the reality is Coloradans are still paying too much. More work is needed, especially to support our low-cost, high-quality community health clinics,” said Lt. Governor and Director of the Office of Saving People Money on Health Care, Dianne Primavera. “This new proposal is a common-sense solution that prioritizes affordability and access while ensuring our safety net providers can continue delivering care to those who need it most.”
Coloradans with commercial insurance pay nearly three times what Medicare reimburses hospitals for the same care.
Safety net providers include primary care and family clinics that provide critical health care to communities across Colorado – like seniors, hardworking families, and rural Coloradans.
“We’ve made important progress to save Coloradans money on health care, and by tackling this issue, we can continue to drive down prices and reduce costs for Coloradans,” said Rep. Kyle Brown, D-Louisville. “New legislation I am sponsoring will support our local safety net providers, which often serve our more vulnerable community members, and save small businesses money on health care coverage. We’re making it easier for Coloradans to receive the high-quality health care they need, when they need it, while improving the financial health of our safety net and critical access providers.”
“We’ve worked hard here in Colorado to bring down the cost of health care so that no matter how much you make or where you live, you can get affordable, quality care,” said Senator Jeff Bridges, D-Arapahoe County. “With this legislation, we’re taking an innovative and proven approach to fund our safety net providers across the state, who are often the only medical providers in their regions. At the same time, our bill will cut insurance premiums paid by small businesses and their employees. By capping hospital payments at an amount below what private insurance can negotiate, but still above what those hospitals need to cover their costs, we can protect our budget while putting those savings directly into the pockets of Coloradans.”
“While our multi-year efforts have saved Coloradans money on health care, cost continues to be a barrier to access care in Colorado” said Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver. “This legislation supports Colorado’s safety net providers, such as community clinics, that provide essential health care to our most vulnerable community members. This bill will drive down costs to the state, save small businesses money, and boost health care access for our neighbors.”
“This bill is an innovative way to reduce health care costs for all Coloradans – from our cities to our rural communities,” said Senator Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora. “The same medical test or procedure should cost roughly the same thing no matter where you get it or what type of insurance you have, but under current law, health care corporations and hospitals can charge different amounts to different people. This bill is a step toward prioritizing affordable, accessible care for all.”
The new bill, which will be introduced in the coming days following additional stakeholder conversations, will support safety net providers and reduce costs for small businesses by:
Establishing reimbursement maximums for in-network (165% of Medicare) and out-of-network (150% of Medicare) on prices paid to certain hospitals through the state employee health plan and the small group market.
Establishing a floor for primary care and behavioral health services (135% of Medicare) through the state employee health plan and small group market.
A feasibility study is required to explore the option for local governments and school districts to participate in a similar reimbursement limit.
The new bill will be introduced in the House. It will support safety net providers by redirecting funds to critical community health centers and providers that serve Coloradans where and when they need care. State employees and small business owners will save money on health care premiums and out-of-pocket costs without compromising care quality. This bill will also protect the state budget as tens of millions of dollars are expected to be diverted to the health care safety net and to help state employees with minimal impact on hospital margins.
Similar policies in states like Oregon and Montana have proven effective, saving state employees money while relieving budget pressures. Colorado is poised to join these states in leading the charge for equitable and sustainable health care reform.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s reply to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in Lok Sabha The President’s address clearly strengthens the resolve to build a Viksit Bharat: PM
We have not given false slogans to the poor, but true development, A Government that has worked for all sections of society: PM
We believe in ensuring resources are spent towards public welfare: PM
Our Government is proud of the middle class and will always support it: PM
Proud of India’s Yuva Shakti; Since 2014, we have focused on the youth of the country and emphasized on their aspirations, today our youth are succeeding in every field: PM
We are leveraging the power of AI to build an Aspirational India: PM
An unwavering commitment to strengthening the values enshrined in our Constitution: PM
Public service is all about nation building: PM
Our commitment to the Constitution motivates us to take strong and pro-people decisions: PM
Our Government has worked to create maximum opportunities for people from SC, ST and OBC Communities: PM
Our Government has shown how to strengthen unity as well as care for the poor and downtrodden: PM
Emphasis on saturation is generating outstanding results:PM
In the last decade, unprecedented support has been given to the MSME sector: PM
Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 9:13PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi replied to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address to Parliament in the Lok Sabha today. Addressing the House, the Prime Minister appreciated the contributions of all honorable MPs who participated in the discussions yesterday and today, noting that the tradition of democracy includes both praise where necessary and some negative remarks where needed, which is natural. Highlighting the great privilege of being given the opportunity by the people to express gratitude for the President’s address for the 14th time, he extended his respectful thanks to the citizens and acknowledged all participants in the discussion for enriching the proposal with their thoughts.
Remarking that as of 2025, a quarter of the 21st century has passed, Shri Modi noted that time will judge the achievements of the post-independence 20th century and the first 25 years of the 21st century. He emphasized that a detailed study of the President’s address reveals that it instills new confidence in the future 25 years and the vision of a developed India. The Prime Minister highlighted that the President’s address strengthens the resolve for a Viksit Bharat, creates new confidence, and inspires the general public.
The Prime Minister highlighted that in the last 10 years, 25 crore people had moved out of poverty, as revealed by many studies. He remarked that this effort was possible due to effective implementation of the schemes with devotion and utmost sensitivity by the Government towards the poor and the needy. He added that when people who are grounded and who know the ground reality, work for the people at the ground level, then change is inevitable and certain on the ground. “Our Government has not given false slogans to the poor, but true development”, said Shri Modi. He added that his was a Government that has worked for all sections of society by understanding the pain of the poor and aspirations of the middle-class with utmost passion, which was lacking in some people.
Noting that it was truly a despair to live in kachcha houses and huts during the monsoons, the Prime Minister said four crore houses were distributed to the poor till now by the Government. Highlighting the difficulties faced by women to defecate in the open, he added that the Government had built more than 12 crore toilets to alleviate the difficulties of women. Emphasising that the Government was focused on ensuring water in the taps of every house through the Har Ghar Jal scheme, the Prime Minister said that even after 75 years of Independence, around 75% or more than 16 crore houses lacked tap-water connections. He added that the Government had ensured 12 crore families tap water connection in the last 5 years and the work was progressing rapidly. Underlining the details of the work done for the poor in the President’s address, Shri Modi said while identifying a problem was not sufficient but was necessary to work with utmost devotion to ensure that a solution was found. He added that his Government, as seen in their work over the last 10 years as well as the President’s address, worked with devotion to ensure solution to the problems.
Highlighting the previous situation when out of every rupee spent, only 15 paise reaches the intended destination, the Prime Minister underscored that the Government’s model of “Bachat bhi, Vikas bhi”, meaning progress with savings, to ensure that the people’s money is used for the welfare of the people. He added that with the JanDhan-Aadhar-Mobile (JAM) Trinity, the Government started Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) and deposited around ₹40 lakh Crore in the bank accounts of the people. Underlining that around 10 crore Ghost beneficiaries were benefiting from the welfare schemes of the Government, the Prime Minister said that during the last 10 years, ghost beneficiaries were eliminated to ensure social justice and the actual beneficiaries were added through various schemes. He added that this had saved around ₹3 lakh crore from reaching the wrong hands. Shri Modi highlighted that the Government had extensively utilized technology in public procurement, bringing in transparency through the GeM (Government e-Marketplace) portal, which is now also being used by state Governments. The procurement made through the GeM portal has been more cost-effective compared to traditional procurement methods, resulting in a savings of ₹1,15,000 crore for the Government.
Shri Modi highlighted that the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was initially ridiculed, with many treating it as a mistake or a sin. Despite the criticism, he proudly stated that due to these cleanliness efforts, in recent years, the Government has earned ₹2,300 crore by selling scrap from Government offices. The Prime Minister invoked Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of trusteeship, emphasizing that they are trustees of the public’s property and are committed to saving every paisa and using it properly.
Highlighting that the Government made a significant decision on ethanol blending, the Prime Minister acknowledged that India is not energy independent and relies on external sources. He said that the introduction of ethanol blending reduced the expenditure on petrol and diesel, resulting in savings of ₹1 Lakh crore. The Prime Minister emphasized that this amount has directly benefited the farmers, putting nearly ₹1 lakh crore into their pockets.
The Prime Minister remarked that while he talks about savings, newspapers used to be filled with headlines about scams worth lakhs and crores. He noted that it has been ten years since such scams have occurred, highlighting that the absence of these scams has saved the country lakhs of crores of rupees. These savings have been directed towards serving the public.
Emphasising that the various steps taken have resulted in savings of lakhs of crores of rupees, Shri Modi clarified that these funds were not used to build grand palaces but were instead invested in nation-building. He noted that the infrastructure budget was ₹1.8 lakh crore ten years ago before their tenure while today, the infrastructure budget stands at ₹11 lakh crore which the President in her address described how India’s foundation is being strengthened. The Prime Minister highlighted that strong foundations have been laid for development in areas like roads, highways, railways, and rural roads.
“Savings in the Government treasury are essential, as emphasized through the principle of trusteeship. However, it is equally important that common citizens also benefit from such savings”, said the Prime Minister. He highlighted that schemes should be designed to ensure public savings. Citing the Ayushman Bharat scheme, he mentioned that the expenses borne by citizens due to illnesses have significantly reduced. He stated that the Ayushman Bharat scheme has saved approximately ₹1.2 lakh crore for the people. Underscoring the importance of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, Shri Modi noted that for families with elderly members aged 60-70, medical expenses can be substantial and the Jan Aushadhi Kendras, providing an 80% discount on medicines, have helped families save around ₹30,000 crore on medical expenses.
Shri Modi highlighted UNICEF’s estimation that families with proper sanitation and toilets save approximately ₹70,000 annually. He emphasized the significant benefits that initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, toilet construction, and access to clean water have brought to ordinary families.
Emphasizing that the “Nal se Jal” initiative has been praised by the WHO, the Prime Minister remarked that according to the WHO report, access to clean water through the initiative has saved families an average of ₹40,000 annually on medical expenses related to other diseases. He highlighted that there are many such schemes that have helped common citizens save on their expenses.
Highlighting that the distribution of free grain to millions of citizens has resulted in significant savings for families, Shri Modi said the PM Suryagarh free electricity scheme has saved families an average of ₹25,000 to ₹30,000 annually on electricity expenses. Additionally, any excess electricity generated can be sold for income. The Prime Minister emphasized the significant savings for common citizens through various initiatives. He mentioned the LED bulb campaign, noting that before their tenure, LED bulbs were sold for ₹400 each. Due to the campaign, the price dropped to ₹40, resulting in electricity savings and increased illumination. He added that this campaign has saved citizens approximately ₹20,000 crore. The Prime Minister highlighted that farmers who have scientifically utilized the Soil Health Card have benefited significantly, with savings of ₹30,000 per acre.
Touching upon the Income tax, the Prime Minister highlighted that over the past ten years, the Government has reduced income tax rates, thereby increasing savings for the middle class. He highlighted that in 2013-14, only ₹2 lakh was exempted from income tax while today, ₹12 lakh is completely exempt from income tax. The Prime Minister noted that throughout 2014, 2017, 2019, and 2023, the Government has continuously worked on providing relief and with the addition of a standard deduction of ₹75,000, salaried individuals will not have to pay any income tax on earnings up to ₹12.75 lakh from April 1st onwards.
Criticizing the previous dispensations for being disconnected from the ground realities and engaging in lofty talks, the Prime Minister further pointed out that the leaders who spoke about the 21st century were not even able to fulfill the needs of the 20th century. He expressed his pain at realizing that the country is 40-50 years late in accomplishing tasks that should have been completed decades ago. Shri Modi added that since 2014, when the public gave the opportunity to serve, the Government has focused extensively on the youth, emphasizing their aspirations and creating numerous opportunities for them. As a result, the youth are now proudly showcasing their talents and achievements. The Prime Minister highlighted the opening of the space sector, defense sector, and the launch of the Semiconductor Mission. To promote innovation, several new schemes have been introduced, and the Startup India ecosystem has been fully developed. Additionally, he highlighted that a significant decision in the current budget is the income tax exemption on incomes up to ₹12 lakh, which has garnered much attention. Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced the opening of the nuclear energy sector, which will have long-term positive impacts and outcomes for the nation.
Emphasizing the importance of AI, 3D printing, robotics, and virtual reality, and underscoring the efforts in the gaming sector, Shri Modi encouraged the nation’s youth to make India the capital of creative gaming worldwide, noting the rapid progress in this area. The Prime Minister remarked that for him, AI stands for not just Artificial Intelligence but also Aspirational India. He highlighted the initiation of 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in schools, where students are astonishing others with their robotics creations. The current budget includes provisions for 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs. The Prime Minister also noted that India’s AI Mission has generated global optimism, and India’s presence on the world AI platform has become significant.
Underlining that this year’s budget includes investment in the domain of Deep Tech, the Prime Minister emphasized that to progress rapidly in the 21st century, which is entirely technology-driven, it is essential for India to advance quickly in the field of deep tech. He remarked that the Government is continuously working with the future of the youth in mind. However, he criticized certain political parties for deceiving the youth with promises of allowances during elections which they fail to fulfill. He stated that these parties have become a disaster for the future of the youth.
Remarking on the recent developments in Haryana, noting that the promise of providing jobs without any cost or intermediaries was fulfilled immediately upon forming the Government, the Prime Minister highlighted this as a testament to their commitment. He celebrated Haryana’s historic third consecutive victory, marking it as a significant achievement in the state’s history. Similarly, the Prime Minister acknowledged the historic results in Maharashtra, noting the unprecedented number of seats held by the ruling party, attributing this success to the blessings of the people.
The Prime Minister referenced the President’s address, which extensively discussed the completion of 75 years of the Constitution. He emphasized that in addition to the articles of the Constitution, its spirit must be lived and we stand by it. Shri Modi remarked that it is a tradition for the President to outline the Government’s activities of the past year in their address, similar to how Governors present the activities of their respective states in their speeches. He emphasized that the true spirit of the Constitution and democracy was demonstrated when Gujarat celebrated its 50th anniversary, and he was serving as the Chief Minister. He added that during the Golden Jubilee year, he made a significant decision to compile all the speeches given by Governors in the assembly over the past 50 years into a book, which is now available in all libraries. He noted that his administration took pride in publishing these speeches. He underscored their commitment to living by, dedicating themselves to, and understanding the spirit of the Constitution.
The Prime Minister remarked that in 2014, when they came to power, there was no recognized opposition party, as none had secured the required number of seats. Many laws allowed the Government to operate independently, and several committees stipulated the inclusion of the Leader of the Opposition, but there was none. The Prime Minister highlighted that, in adherence to the spirit of the Constitution and the values of democracy, they decided to invite the leader of the largest party in the meetings, despite the absence of a recognized opposition. This demonstrated their commitment to the essence of democracy. Shri Modi remarked that in the past, Prime Ministers would handle files independently. However, his administration has included the Leader of the Opposition in these processes and even enacted laws to ensure their participation. The Prime Minister noted that when the Election Commission is formed, the Leader of the Opposition will be part of the decision-making process, demonstrating their commitment to living by the Constitution.
Highlighting that in Delhi, several places have private museums created by families, Shri Modi noted that when it comes to utilizing public funds, it is important to live by the spirit of democracy and the Constitution. He mentioned the creation of the PM Museum, which showcases the lives and work of all Prime Ministers, from the first to his predecessors. The Prime Minister expressed his desire for the families of the great leaders featured in the PM Museum to visit and suggest additions to enrich the museum further, inspiring the younger generation. He emphasized that living for oneself is common, but living for the Constitution is a higher calling that they are committed to.
“When power is used for service, it leads to nation-building, but when power becomes a legacy, it destroys people”, said the Prime Minister. He emphasized that they adhere to the spirit of the Constitution and do not engage in divisive politics. He highlighted the importance of national unity and recalled the creation of the world’s tallest statue, the Statue of Unity, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as their commitment to living by the Constitution drives their actions.
Expressing his concern that it is unfortunate that some people are openly using the language of urban Naxals, Shri Modi highlighted that those who speak this language and challenge the Indian State can neither understand the Constitution nor the unity of the country.
Highlighting that for seven decades, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh were deprived of constitutional rights, the Prime Minister noted that this was an injustice to both the Constitution and the people of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. By revoking Article 370, the Prime Minister highlighted that the people of these regions now receive the same rights as other citizens of the country. He emphasized that they understand and live by the spirit of the Constitution, which is why they make such strong decisions.
Stressing that the Constitution does not allow for discrimination, Shri Modi criticized those who live with a biased mindset, pointing out the difficulties imposed on Muslim women. By abolishing triple talaq, the Prime Minister stated that they have given Muslim daughters their rightful equality as per the Constitution.
Emphasizing that whenever their Government has been in power, they have worked with a long-term vision, the Prime Minister expressed concern over the divisive language used by some, driven by despair and hopelessness. He noted that their focus has always been on those who are left behind, as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi. Shri Modi highlighted the creation of separate ministries, such as for the Northeast and for tribal affairs under Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s leadership, demonstrating their commitment to inclusive development.
Highlighting that India’s southern and eastern coastal states have significant fishing communities, Shri Modi emphasized the importance of considering the well-being of these communities, including those in small inland water areas. The Prime Minister highlighted that it is their Government that created a separate ministry for fisheries to address the needs of fishermen and support their livelihoods.
Pointing out the potential within the marginalized sections of society, the Prime Minister remarked that by focusing on skill development, new opportunities can be created, leading to a new life for their aspirations. This led to the creation of a separate Ministry for Skill Development. He also highlighted that the primary duty of democracy is to provide opportunities to even the most ordinary citizens. To enhance and strengthen India’s cooperative sector, which connects crores of people, the Government has created a separate Ministry for Cooperatives. The Prime Minister noted that this demonstrates their vision.
The Prime Minister remarked that discussing caste has become fashionable for some people and for the past 30-35 years, OBC MPs from various parties have been demanding constitutional status for the OBC Commission. He added that it was their Government that granted constitutional status to the OBC Commission. He highlighted that the Backward Classes Commission is now part of the constitutional framework.
The Prime Minister remarked that they have worked steadfastly to provide maximum opportunities for SC, ST, and OBC communities in every sector. He posed important questions to the nation, asking if there has ever been a time when three MPs from the same SC family served in Parliament simultaneously, or three MPs from the same ST family at the same time. He highlighted the stark difference between the words and actions of some individuals, indicating a vast gap between their promises and reality.
The Prime Minister highlighted there is a need for the empowerment of SC and ST communities while noting the importance of maintaining unity without creating social tensions. He provided an example by noting that before 2014, there were 387 medical colleges in the country. Today, the number has increased to 780, resulting in a rise in available seats. He pointed out that before 2014, there were 7,700 MBBS seats for SC students. After ten years of work, the number has increased to 17,000, thereby significantly improving opportunities for the Dalit community to become doctors, without creating social tensions and while respecting each other’s dignity. Shri Modi highlighted that before 2014, there were 3,800 MBBS seats for ST students. Today, this number has increased to approximately 9,000. He also noted that before 2014, there were fewer than 14,000 MBBS seats for OBC students. Today, this number has risen to approximately 32,000, enabling 32,000 OBC students to become doctors. The Prime Minister highlighted that over the past ten years, a new university has been established every week, a new ITI has been opened every day, and a new college has been inaugurated every two days. He emphasized the significant increase in opportunities for SC, ST, and OBC youth.
“We are committed to ensuring 100% saturation of all schemes so that no beneficiary is left out”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He highlighted that everyone who is entitled to benefits should receive them, rejecting the outdated model where only a few are favored. The Prime Minister criticized the politics of appeasement and stated that to build a developed India, the country must move away from appeasement to a path of satisfaction. He stressed that every section of society should receive their due without any discrimination. According to him, achieving 100% saturation means true social justice, secularism, and respect for the Constitution.
Stressing that the spirit of the Constitution is to ensure better health for all, Shri Modi noted that today is Cancer Day, and health is being discussed extensively across the country and the world. He remarked that some individuals, driven by political selfishness, are obstructing the provision of healthcare services to the poor and elderly. The Prime Minister noted that 30,000 hospitals, including specialized private hospitals, are connected to the Ayushman Bharat scheme, offering free treatment to Ayushman cardholders. However, certain political parties, due to their narrow mindset and flawed policies, have closed the doors of these hospitals to the poor, affecting cancer patients. Citing a recent study by the public health journal Lancet, which stated that timely cancer treatment has begun under the Ayushman scheme, Shri Modi emphasized the Government’s seriousness in cancer screening and treatment, highlighting that early diagnosis and treatment can save cancer patients. The Lancet credited the Ayushman scheme, noting significant progress in this direction in India.
Highlighting the significant step taken in this budget to make cancer medicines more affordable, Shri Modi mentioned it was an important decision that will benefit cancer patients, especially on Cancer Day. He urged all honorable MPs to utilize this benefit for patients in their constituencies. He noted the challenges faced by patients due to the limited number of hospitals and announced the decision to establish 200 daycare centers. These centers will provide substantial relief to both patients and their families.
Touching upon the discussions on foreign policy addressed during the President’s speech, the Prime Minister noted that some individuals feel the need to speak on foreign policy to appear mature, even if it harms the country. He suggested that those truly interested in foreign policy should read the book “JFK’s Forgotten Crisis” by a renowned foreign policy scholar. The book details important events and discussions between India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and then US President John F. Kennedy during challenging times.
The Prime Minister expressed his disappointment at the disrespect shown towards the President, a woman from a poor family, following her address. He emphasized that he understands political frustration, but questioned the reasons behind such disrespect towards the President. Remarking that India is moving forward by embracing the mantra of women-led development, leaving behind regressive mindsets, Shri Modi emphasized that if women, who constitute half of the population, are given full opportunities, India can progress at twice the speed. His conviction has only strengthened after 25 years of working in this field. He highlighted that in the past ten years, 10 crore women, primarily from marginalized and rural backgrounds, have joined self-help groups (SHGs). These women’s capabilities have increased, their social status has improved, and the Government has enhanced their assistance up to ₹20 lakh to help them further their work. The Prime Minister noted that these efforts have had a highly positive impact on the rural economy.
Highlighting the discussion of the Lakhpati Didi campaign in the President’s address, the Prime Minister noted that since the formation of the new Government for the third time, over 50 lakh Lakhpati Didis have been registered. He remarked that since the inception of this initiative, approximately 1.25 crore women have become Lakhpati Didis, and the goal is to make three crore women Lakhpati Didis through economic programs. The Prime Minister noted the significant psychological shift in villages, where women operating drones, known as Namo Drone Didis, have changed the community’s perception of women. These Drone Didis are earning lakhs of rupees by working in fields. He also highlighted the role of the Mudra Yojana in empowering women, with crores of women entering the industrial sector for the first time and taking on entrepreneurial roles.
Emphasising that out of the 4 crore homes provided to families, approximately 75% have been registered in the names of women, the Prime Minister emphasized “this change is laying the foundation for a strong and empowered 21st-century India”. “The goal of a developed India cannot be achieved without strengthening the rural economy”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He emphasized the importance of agriculture in the rural economy and noted that farmers are a strong pillar of developed India. Over the past decade, the agriculture budget has increased tenfold since 2014, marking a significant jump.
The Prime Minister remarked that before 2014, farmers faced difficulties and even police action when demanding urea. He added that they had to stand in long queues overnight, and fertilizer meant for farmers often ended up in black markets. Shri Modi said today, farmers receive ample fertilizer. He added that during the COVID-19 crisis, supply chains were disrupted, and global prices soared. Shri Modi said that despite India’s dependency on imported urea, the Government managed to bear the cost. He added that a bag of urea costing the Government ₹3,000 is provided to farmers at less than ₹300. He highlighted that their continuous efforts ensure maximum benefits for farmers.
“In the past ten years, ₹12 lakh crore has been spent to ensure affordable fertilizer for farmers and through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, about ₹3.5 lakh crore has been directly transferred to farmers’ accounts”, said Shri Modi. He highlighted the record increase in MSP and stated that procurement has tripled over the past decade. He noted that farmer loans have been made more accessible and affordable, with a threefold increase in the amount of credit provided. Shri Modi emphasized that during natural disasters, farmers were previously left to fend for themselves, but under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, ₹2 lakh crore has been disbursed to farmers. He highlighted the unprecedented steps taken in irrigation over the past decade, referencing Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s comprehensive and inclusive vision for water management. He mentioned that over 100 major irrigation projects, pending for decades, have been completed to ensure water reaches farmers’ fields. The Prime Minister noted that Dr. Ambedkar advocated for river linking, a vision that went unfulfilled for years. Today, projects like the Ken-Betwa Link Project and the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project have commenced. He also shared his successful experience in Gujarat with similar river-linking initiatives.
“Every Indian should dream of seeing Made in India food packets on dining tables around the world”, said the Prime Minister. He expressed joy that Indian tea and coffee are now gaining popularity globally, and turmeric has seen a surge in demand post-COVID period. He noted that in the coming times, Indian processed seafood and Bihar’s makhana will also make their mark worldwide. The Prime Minister highlighted that India’s millets, known as Shri Anna, will enhance India’s reputation in international markets.
Stressing the importance of Future Ready cities for a developed India, Shri Modi noted that the country is rapidly urbanizing, which should be seen as an opportunity rather than a challenge. He highlighted that the expansion of infrastructure leads to the creation of opportunities, as increased connectivity boosts possibilities. The Prime Minister mentioned the inauguration of the first Namo Rail connecting Delhi and Uttar Pradesh and expressed his experience of traveling on it. He stressed the need for such connectivity and infrastructure to reach all major cities in India, reflecting the nation’s future direction. He remarked that Delhi’s metro rail network has doubled, and now metro networks are expanding to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The Prime Minister proudly highlighted that India’s metro network has surpassed 1,000 kilometers, with an additional 1,000 kilometers currently under development, showcasing the rapid progress. He highlighted several initiatives taken by the Indian Government to reduce pollution, including the introduction of 12,000 electric buses across the country, providing a significant service to Delhi as well.
Mentioning the expansion of the Gig Economy in major cities, with lakhs of young people joining, the Prime Minister announced the registration of gig workers on the e-Shram portal and the provision of an ID card upon verification. He also stated that gig workers would benefit from the Ayushman scheme, ensuring they have access to healthcare. He estimated that there are currently around one crore gig workers in the country and emphasized the Government’s ongoing efforts to support this sector.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significant job opportunities presented by the MSME sector, emphasizing its potential for employment. He remarked that small industries symbolize a self-reliant India and contribute immensely to the country’s economy. The Government’s policy focuses on simplicity, convenience, and support for MSMEs, with an emphasis on Mission Manufacturing to boost the manufacturing sector and create jobs for young people through skill development.
Mentioning that several initiatives have been launched to improve the MSME sector, Shri Modi said that the MSME criteria established in 2006 were updated twice in the past decade, with significant upgrades in 2020 and in this budget. He highlighted the financial support provided to MSMEs, addressing the challenge of formal financial resources, and the special support given to the MSME sector during the COVID crisis. The Prime Minister noted the focus on industries like the toy and textile sectors, ensuring cash flow and providing loans without collateral, resulting in job creation and job security. He mentioned the introduction of customized credit cards and credit guarantee coverage to ease the business operations of small industries. He proudly shared that before 2014, India imported toys, but today, Indian toy manufacturers are exporting toys worldwide, with a significant reduction in imports and a 239% increase in exports. The Prime Minister highlighted that various sectors operated by MSMEs are gaining global recognition, with Made in India products like clothing, electronics, and electrical goods becoming part of daily life in other countries.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the dream of a developed India is not just a dream of the Government but the dream of 140 crore Indians. He highlighted that India is moving forward with great confidence and urged everyone to contribute their energy towards realizing this dream. He noted that there are global examples of countries becoming developed within 20-25 years, and India, with its demographic advantage, democracy, and demand, can achieve the same by 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence.
The Prime Minister stressed the need to achieve greater goals and remain committed to creating a modern, capable, and developed India for many years to come. He called on all political parties, leaders, and citizens to prioritize the nation above all and work together towards the dream of a developed India. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude and thanked the President for the address and extended his appreciation to the members of the House.
Ms Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Labour & Employment chairs a Roundtable on Enhancing Social Security Coverage and Care Support for Women in the Unorganized Sector, in New Delhi Achieving the Goal of a Viksit Bharat through Women-led Economic Growth.
Increasing Access to High Quality Care and Social Welfare Support to Women – India Emerging as a Global Leader in Bringing Focus on these Priorities
Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 8:55PM by PIB Delhi
In line with the vision for a Viksit Bharat@2047 – driven by women led development wherein 70% of women engaged in economic activities, laid out in the Union Budget 2025-26, a Roundtable Discussion on providing social security and care support to women was held today in New Delhi under the chairpersonship of Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment. Organised in collaboration with UNICEF, the meeting was attended by senior officials from Ministry of Labour & Employment, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, and representatives from international organizations (UNICEF, UNDP, ILO, World Bank) and academia (VVGNLI, IEG).
Today’s roundtable aimed at fostering dialogue on reimagining social security coverage and care support for women in the unorganized sector, while leveraging the Social Security Code and eShram – One-Stop-Solution, facilitate knowledge exchange and develop a strategic action plan to promote female labour force participation in the country.
Global best practices on successful outcomes of family friendly policies to increase opportunities and decrease pressure on women, taking a systems approach and building synergies, flexible working arrangements, addressing gender gaps and biases in existing social protection schemes, policies and programmes, were showcased. Integration of benefits offered by different Central and State Government departments was also highlighted as an important way forward. The contribution of eShram in facilitating the integration of various social welfare schemes and programmes, along with various other portals like the National Career Service portal, which facilitates job demand and supply matching and SIDH for skill development programmes, are ensuring seamless delivery through a one-stop-solution, and supporting employment generation and skill development. Evidence from global best practices showcased during the meeting suggests that such integrated efforts yield high impact.
Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment during her special address highlighted that the Aadhar-seed Unique Account Number given to workers registered on eShram enables track and trace of the saturation of social welfare schemes among the beneficiaries. She urged international organizations working at State level to become partners in achieving comprehensive last mile delivery through eShram. Alluding to the Union Budget 2025-26, she emphasized that its thematic priorities focus on promoting employment led-growth across MSMEs, manufacturing sector and labour intensive sectors like footwear, leather and toy industry. She mentioned that today’s discussion will be focused on developing a strategy to promote employment generation and greater participation of women in labour force, in line with the big push given to sectoral growth in the Union Budget.
