Source: New Zealand Police
Saddle Road between Ashurst and Woodville is closed due to a serious two vehicle collision.
Emergency services received reports of the crash at 5:20pm, in which one person is believed to be critically injured.
Motorists are advised to avoid travel if possible as the only diversion is through the Pahiatua Track.
ENDS
Source: New Zealand Police
Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Fane Troy, Taupo Area Road Policing Manager:
Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Wookeun Kim in the Auckland District Court yesterday.
Mr Kim was the driver of a vehicle involved in a fatal crash at Mangakino on 21 April which killed one person and seriously injured another.
He was disqualified from driving for 15 months and ordered to pay $10,000 in reparations to the surviving victim, who remains in hospital.
Police are glad that this matter was able to be resolved in a timely fashion.
These crashes are traumatic for all people involved.
We would like to thank all those people who were involved in attending to the injured people at the crash scene – your efforts do not go unnoticed.
Members of the public who call police around poor driving are to be commended. If you see dangerous driving or driving that causes concern please ring 111.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The ABC series Austin was filmed in Canberra.
As a local, there’s nothing quite like seeing Canberra on screen.
Whether it’s a spot in your neighbourhood, a cultural institution or our bushland, Canberra has been a backdrop to several films and television shows.
Here are some of the locations that have been featured on screen:
This is one of many Canberra locations used to film the ABC comedy series, Austin. The Hyatt is a regular feature and appears as the ‘Canberra Hotel’ in the show.
Some of the other Canberra locations that were used for filming include:
Blacklight is an action film starring Liam Neeson and set in Washington DC. During 2021, an action scene was filmed on the streets of Canberra. Despite being edited to look as though the scene took place in DC, Canberra residents will recognise some familiar scenery.
Notable locations include:
The political thriller television series Secret City was filmed inside of Parliament House. You’ll see the prime minister’s office, the Press Gallery, and the building’s exterior to name a few.
Some other Canberra locations you’ll spot include:
Other TV shows and films that feature Parliament House include:
Somersault is a 2004 drama film starring Abbie Cornish and Sam Worthington. Most of the film is set in Jindabyne, but some of it was filmed in Canberra. Kambah Inn is featured, and some Canberrans will recognise the old Belconnen Interchange.
Mabo tells the life story of Eddie ‘Koiki’ Mabo and his part in the landmark case that overturned the doctrine of terra nullius. It starts Jimi Bani and Deborah Mailman and The High Court of Australia is visible in the film.
The High Court of Australia also featured briefly in film The Castle. It is the setting for Darryl Kerrigan’s (played by Michael Caton) legal battle to protect his family home.
Skate parks and Kingsley’s Chicken are two of Canberra’s most popular locations for teenagers. It’s fitting that they are featured in the 2013 film Galore. The film is set in suburban Canberra and tells the story of a group of teenagers in the lead up to the 2003 bushfires. Scrivener Dam is also visible in part of the film.
Blue World Order is a 2017 film directed by Ché Baker and Dallas Bland. It’s set in a post-apocalyptic world and stars Titanic actor Billy Zane. There is even a cameo from ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr.
The iconic Black Mountain Tower is visible in the film. Scenes were also shot at the Australian National University and Wee Jasper Caves.
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Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leoni Connah, Lecturer in International Relations, Flinders University
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated this week after India launched missile strikes on its long-time rival, killing more than 30 people.
India was retaliating for a terror attack on tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22, which killed 26 civilians, most of them Indian. New Delhi has blamed a Pakistan-based militant group for the incident.
Pakistan has vowed revenge for the airstrikes, calling them an “act of war”.
If a full-scale war does break out between the two nuclear powers, it wouldn’t be the first time they have fought over the disputed region of Kashmir. In fact, the two sides have been in conflict over Kashmir since 1947.
The people of Kashmir, meanwhile, are stuck in the middle of this geopolitical rivalry, trapped in a security state with little hope for the future.
Before the attack on the tourists last month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government had made repeated claims that “normalcy” was returning to the region.
However, Kashmir remains one of the most heavily militarised zones in the world and the people have long suffered human rights abuses the Indian government has justified on the grounds of counter-terrorism.
In 2019, the Modi government revoked Article 370 of the Indian constitution, which had granted a special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, along with a high degree of autonomy.
The revocation of this article brought Jammu and Kashmir, now a “union territory”, under the full control of the Modi government in New Delhi.
This decision was made on behalf of Kashmiris, not in consultation with them. Speaking with Kashmiris in 2020 as part of my ongoing research on the region, there was a huge sense of betrayal at the move.
One of my interview subjects claimed Indian security forces were “instilling fear and psychological warfare” in Kashmir. Another said “it’s no exaggeration to say after every three kilometres, there’s a checkpoint” manned by Indian security forces. The situation worsened during the COVID pandemic, with increased lockdowns and curfews.
Some hope did return last September when Kashmiris were able to vote in regional assembly elections for the first time in a decade.
The election meant the new local assembly would have the power to make and amend laws, debate local issues and approve decisions for the territory, particularly in education and culture.
However, this doesn’t mean “normalcy” had returned, nor was Kashmir peaceful and tranquil.
In February of this year, there were reports that Indian security forces had conducted operations against suspected militants, resulting in a lockdown and 500 people being detained.
A young Kashmiri man died by suicide after allegedly being tortured by police in February. The next day, another man was shot dead by the army.
These are just two incidents that are part of a wider cycle of violence that has become a part of everyday life in Kashmir.
After the April 22 tourist attack, the central government has doubled down on its heavy-handed approach to Kashmir under the guise of counter-terrorism.
Kashmiris have been subjected to an increased security presence, new lockdowns, “cordon and search operations”, social media surveillance, house demolitions and other draconian measures.
Police say some 1,900 Kashmiris have been detained and questioned since the attack. This number will no doubt continue to rise.
It is no wonder Kashmiris were saying “everyone lives in fear”, even before India launched missile strikes on its neighbour.
Possible retaliation from Pakistan – or a wider war – now looms, with Kashmiris again on the front lines.
There is a very big concern that right-wing Indian media outlets and social media posts are now encouraging the Indian government to respond to the terror attack in the same way Israel has retaliated against Hamas in Gaza.
Some commentators are portraying the April 22 attack as India’s version of the October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel, which could become a dangerous precedent for what the future holds for Kashmir.
Israel also recently announced its support for India’s right to “self-defence”.
In addition, the rise in right-wing rhetoric increases the likelihood of Islamophobic attacks taking place against Kashmiris, as well as Muslims in India more broadly.
Each war fought between India and Pakistan over Kashmir has ended with negotiations and treaties.
Bilateral relations have been attempted numerous times over the years and would be a preferable option to increased escalation in the current conflict.
Ultimately, it is the Kashmiris who suffer the most whenever tensions boil over between the two nuclear powers. As one young man recently said:
My parents don’t allow me to step outside. Every time I get a call, I feel a wave of anxiety, fearing it might be the police.
Kashmir might be a wonderland, a mini-Switzerland or a paradise for others, but for us, it is an open prison. Everyone lives in fear. What future do we have?
Leoni Connah 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.
– ref. ‘Everyone lives in fear’: trapped between two warring nuclear giants, the people of Kashmir continue to suffer – https://theconversation.com/everyone-lives-in-fear-trapped-between-two-warring-nuclear-giants-the-people-of-kashmir-continue-to-suffer-256085
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Josh Holloway, Lecturer in Government in the College of Business, Government and Law, Flinders University
The Greens’ federal election result has been widely condemned as a “disaster”.
The party has been all but wiped out in the House of Representatives. It has lost three of its four members, including leader Adam Bandt, who has just conceded his once safe seat of Melbourne. This leaves the Brisbane electorate of Ryan as the Greens’ only remaining seat in the lower house.
Yet the tired explanations being rolled out – the party is too extreme, too obstructionist, too distant from a mythical single-issue environmentalist past – misidentify the party’s dilemmas.
And they overlook the fact the Greens’ influence will be greater in the new parliament, at least in the Senate.
The Greens share the blame for the tone of these election post-mortems.
This is a party of campaign hubris, consistently over-promising and under-delivering.
Bob Brown’s “green government” is yet to emerge. Christine Milne’s aspirations of gains in the bush barely materialised. And the “small-l liberals” chased by Richard Di Natale now prop up independents.
Bandt’s list of new target seats appears to have stretched resources too thin and underscored the challenges of taking a Senate party into the House.
The campaign narrative of “keeping Dutton out and getting Labor to act” may have suited a time when either a Labor or Coalition minority government was a possibility. But it did little to distinguish the Greens as Labor gained momentum.
Many voters may have thought kicking Peter Dutton out was best done by voting for Labor, backed up by supporting the Greens in the Senate to encourage more ambitious Labor action.
And yet – is the election result all that bad?
Despite a small negative swing, the Greens’ nationwide primary vote was still above 12%. This election sits alongside 2010 and 2022 as among the party’s largest ever share of votes.
Support ticked up in seats as divergent as Lalor, Fraser, Macarthur, Barton, Newcastle, Page, Spence, and Swan. Even in divisions lost to Labor, such as Griffith and Brisbane, voters did not abandon the party in large numbers.
The Greens will also maintain their Senate numbers. This gives them sole balance of power, making them pivotal to Labor’s legislative success.
Clearly, if the Greens are too “extreme”, it’s an extremism shared by a significant and relatively stable share of Australians.
So, what explains this mix of loss and achievement?
The Greens routinely highlight the barriers of the lower house electoral system. They have a point. Single member districts tend not to produce a chamber that reflects primary vote share.
Preferential voting can be a boon to minor parties. But it also makes the outcomes of tight, multiparty electoral contests – the kind the Greens relied on to win in 2022 – susceptible to even slight shifts in voters’ preferences.
Given the Nationals and a slew of independents held their seats, this may read like a cop out.
But unlike the Nationals, the Greens lack a clear geographic cleavage that corrals large numbers of electors their way. And contrary to vaguely centrist independents, the Greens occupy ideological space where most voters don’t reside – even if many of the Greens’ “social democratic” policy positions have broad support when considered individually.
This is hardly new. The party is no more stridently left-wing than in 2022. But even in the country’s most progressive seats, there is always a conservative rump. If the Liberal Party is knocked out of a race, most of their preferences will flow to Labor, which can be decisive.
Much has been made of the Greens’ legislative obstruction in the Senate. Delaying Labor’s housing agenda is one such example.
Dabbling in opposition before ultimately capitulating for minor concessions may have dampened Greens support.
The Greens reaped neither the benefits of opposition nor those of compromise, but instead the costs of both. It’s hard to see crucial segments of voters in lower house seats not being repulsed by this, even as the party finds sufficient support to meet Senate quotas.
The future requires serious internal reflection on who the party appeals to, and how.
A new parliamentary strategy is needed to leverage Senate balance of power for progressive outcomes and electoral growth. Greens also need to navigate a relationship with the government that is seemingly hostile to the very existence of the party (has anyone mentioned the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme yet?).
With the loss of Bandt from parliament, the party’s leadership – spilled following an election, regardless of outcome – is now wide open.
Bandt’s replacement will need to balance electoral appeal with an ability to contain internal ructions that have diminished, not disappeared.
Senator Larissa Waters ought to be a frontrunner. She has held leadership positions for 10 years and is popular, both electorally and internally. Crucially, she represents Queensland, a state where the Greens need to regain votes.
Another option is Senator Nick McKim, who would return the party’s centre of gravity to Tasmania, and offer previous state party leadership experience.
Another candidate could be Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, who has long held leadership aspirations.
In a party where members are stridently advocating for greater say in leadership selection, the process could open up and be unpredictable.
The Greens do best when voters turn away from Labor.
As the government advances an unambitious agenda of, at best, “thin labourism”, the number of disappointed and disaffected voters will grow.
Even a modest swing against Labor at the next election puts several House seats back in play, alongside the Greens’ ongoing presence in the Senate.
Josh Holloway 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.
– ref. Greens’ election hubris – how the minor party lost its way and now its leader – https://theconversation.com/greens-election-hubris-how-the-minor-party-lost-its-way-and-now-its-leader-255954
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Customs today arrested a director and a company secretary over alleged wrongful acceptance of payments, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO).
The arrests were made after Customs received reports that private healthcare facilities operated by the company concerned had closed and subsequently failed to provide customers with services that had already been paid for.
Investigations revealed that before their suspected closure the facilities were still accepting payments for prepaid services.
Under the TDO, it is considered an offence if at the time of accepting payment a trader intends not to supply a product or intends to supply a materially different product, or if there is no reasonable ground for believing that the trader will be able to supply the product within a specified or reasonable period.
The arrests made were of a 61-year-old male director and a 31-year-old female company secretary.
As of 5pm on Wednesday, Customs and Police had received 1,686 reports in relation to the matter. They will continue to investigate and will take appropriate enforcement actions.
Meanwhile, the Consumer Council had received 844 complaints and said it will handle these in accordance with procedures.
On May 3, the Department of Health set up a dedicated telephone hotline, email address and WhatsApp number to handle public enquiries, free of charge. As of Wednesday, 112 enquiries had been received, including 50 concerning vaccines for children and 56 relating to vaccines for patients in other age groups.
The Government announced on May 2 that an inter-departmental team had been set up to look into the suspected closure of certain private healthcare facilities.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
A Bellerive man has been arrested and charged with grooming offences, police alleging he used social media to entice a person aged under 16 to self-produce child abuse material.
The 34-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday after members of the Tasmanian Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team (JACET) executed a search warrant as part of the team’s investigation into the detection of a child being groomed via social media.The Tasmanian JACET is comprised of members of the High-Risk Child Exploitation Unit (Tasmania Police) and the Australian Federal Police.
During the search, police located and examined numerous mobile devices.
As a result, a 34-year-old man was arrested and charged with using a carriage service to groom persons under 16 years of age, contrary to section 474.27 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth).
The man appeared in the Hobart Magistrates Court on Wednesday night and has been bailed, with strict conditions, to reappear in court in late June.
Online child abuse is a serious crime type. Tasmania Police, with the support of its partners, is committed to stopping these crimes and keeping our children safe.
If you have seen inappropriate behaviour online that you suspect is child abuse, report it:
• If the child is in immediate danger, call 000.
• Call 131 444
• Report online to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) https://www.accce.gov.au/report
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Jeremiah Joseph Evans, aka “The Bull,” 29, of Utah County, Utah, was sentenced today to 96 months’ imprisonment after he admitted to defrauding approximately $20,894,674 from approximately 530 investors in his company Alpha Influence LLC.
The sentence, imposed by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Tena Campbell, comes after Evans pleaded guilty on January 23, 2025, to securities fraud and money laundering. In addition to his term of imprisonment, Evans was sentenced to three years’ supervised release and ordered to pay $19,134,150.00 in restitution.
According to court documents and statements made at the Evans’ change of plea and sentencing hearings, from July 2019 to July 2022, Evans fraudulently sold investments in e-commerce stores through Alpha Influence, LLC., a registered Utah corporation. Evans promised investors to secure money in exchange for the Alpha investments and fraudulently obtained approximately $20,894,674 from approximately 530 investors. As part of his scheme, Evans lied about how successful his company, how long it was in operation and promised their investment would generate consistent, predictable monthly returns, when it would not. He failed to disclose that testimonials published about Alpha Influence and its success were made by his own relatives or others who received commissions paid from investor proceeds. On one occasion, in July 2021, Evans transferred $50,000 from Alpha Influence LLC’s bank account to make a partial payment for a white Lamborghini Huracan Evo.
“Crime does not always come in the form of violence and for a number of years, Evans lied about the success of his company and defrauded millions of dollars from investors,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah. “Protecting the public is a top priority for the Department of Justice and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute criminals and seek justice for crime victims.”
“Today marks a significant step towards justice for the hundreds of Utahns victimized by Jeremiah ‘The Bull’ Evans’ $20 million fraud,” says Executive Director of the Utah Department of Commerce, Margaret Busse. “Evans exploited social media and Utahns’ strong community ties to lure unsuspecting investors into his scheme and caused significant harm. Schemes like this not only affect individual lives but also erode the overall public trust in legitimate investment opportunities. We deeply appreciate the unwavering dedication of the U.S. Attorney General’s Office and the tireless efforts of our own Utah Division of Securities, along with the FBI, in bringing these individuals to justice.”
“Like many fraudsters, Mr. Evans was motivated by greed, using his victims’ money to fund a lavish lifestyle,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The sentencing shows that stealing for personal gain doesn’t pay. The FBI and our partners will hold accountable those who engage in fraudulent schemes.”
The case was investigated jointly by the Utah Division of Securities and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Woolf, Jennifer E. Gully, and Brian Williams of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
Attachments:
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
Padilla, Bennet, Salinas, Lofgren Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Provide Disaster Relief for Farm Workers
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) introduced the Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act to provide compensation for farm workers who lose out on wages due to extreme weather, public health emergencies, and other disasters beyond their control. Representatives Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.-06) and Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18) are leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
California is home to as many as 800,000 year-round and seasonal farm workers who help power the state’s $59 billion agricultural economy, yet despite their contributions to the local, regional, and national economies, there are few protections for the farm workforce. The California agricultural economy faced almost $4 billion in damages from 2023 to 2024, and that’s without even accounting for flooded farm worker homes in Pajaro or lost farm worker income. Existing federal disaster relief programs insufficiently compensate farm workers when they lose wages as a result of conditions out of their control.
“California’s farm workers often work under extreme conditions to help put food on the table for hundreds of millions of Americans,” said Senator Padilla. “But increasingly frequent natural disasters, including historic flooding in Pajaro, have devastated California’s agricultural communities. We must protect the heart of our nation’s food supply by providing critical emergency assistance to these essential workers.”
“Agriculture is the backbone of Colorado’s economy and central to our Western way of life, but as climate-fueled disasters become increasingly common, our state’s farm workers are paying the price,” said Senator Bennet. “Our bill will help ensure the people that grow America’s fruits, vegetables, and other crops get the assistance they need in the wake of emergencies like drought, wildfires, and other natural disasters.”
“Extreme weather and natural disasters are only getting worse with climate change. Unfortunately, many of the hardworking individuals who grow and harvest our food do not receive direct financial support when they are forced to miss work and lose wages as a result of these disasters,” said Representative Salinas. “My legislation would finally correct this injustice by providing federal disaster relief for farmworkers. This change is well-deserved and long-overdue, and I will continue to advocate for the brave men and women who help feed America.”
“When extreme weather occurs, farmworkers across our country continue to feed the nation. And yet, these essential workers and their families face great uncertainty when unexpected disasters harm their communities and livelihood. For example, hundreds of farmworkers in my congressional district faced displacement and lost wages after severe flooding devastated the Pajaro community in early 2023. We owe them – and all farmworkers – more. The Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act ensures America’s indispensable farmworkers can receive disaster relief funding they need and have earned,” said Representative Lofgren.
The Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act would address this problem by providing direct relief funding for farm workers. Specifically, this bill would:
Make grants available to eligible farm worker organizations to provide emergency relief to farm workers affected by a disaster.
Ensure the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) develops and executes a promotional plan prior to and throughout the distribution of the relief grants to increase awareness of the assistance available.
Require USDA to work with eligible farm worker organizations.
Provide definitions for a covered disaster, eligible farm worker organization, and migrant or seasonal farm worker.
Amend Section 2281 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to allow for emergency assistance for farm workers.
The legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: A Better Balance, Alianza Americas, Alianza Nacional de Campesinas, Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs (AFOP), Borderlands Resource Initiative, California Human Development, Campesinos Sin Fronteras, Care in Action, CASA of Oregon, Center for Employment Training, Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE), Central Valley Opportunity Center, Centro de los Derechos del Migrante, Inc (CDM), Child Labor Coalition, CHILDREN AT RISK, CIERTO, Civic Empowerment Coalition, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), Columbia Legal Services, CRLA Foundation, Davidson County Local Food Network, El Futuro es Nuestro, Farm Worker Ministry Northwest, Farmworker and Landscaper Advocacy Project-FLAP, Farmworker Housing Development Corporation (FHDC), Farmworker Justice, Food Empowerment Project, GALEO Impact Fund, Hand in Hand/Mano en Mano, Hispanic Affairs Project, Hispanic Federation, Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative, Immigrant Defenders Law Center, La Union del Pueblo Entero (LUPE), Latino Outdoors, League of Conservation Voters, Make the Road CT, Make the Road NJ, Make the Road NV, Make the Road NY, Make the Road PA, Make the Road States, Michiganders for a Just Farming System, National Association of Social Workers, National Association of Social Workers – Florida and Virgin Islands Chapter, National Consumers League, National Domestic Workers Alliance, National Employment Law Project, National Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Association, NC FIELD, Inc., NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, North Carolina Council of Churches, North Carolina Farmworker Advocacy Network, North Carolina Justice Center, Nourish Up, Opportunity Arizona, Oregon Human Development Corporation, Organización en California de Lideres Campesinas, Inc, PCUN, Oregon’s Farmworker Union, Pesticide Action and Agroecology Network (PAN), Popular Democracy, Presente.org, Progress Michigan, Proteus Inc., Puente de la Costa Sur, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), Slow Food USA, Student Action with Farmworkers, Sur Legal Collaborative, TODEC Legal Center, Toxic Free North Carolina, UFW Foundation, Unidos Yamhill County, United Farm Workers, and Voces Unidas de las Montañas.
“Farm workers are always on the front lines of fires, floods, and storms — yet are too often excluded from federal disaster relief programs,” said Teresa Romero, President of United Farm Workers (UFW). “If the federal government can provide emergency support to farm owners who lose crops in natural disaster, then the federal government can emergency provide support to farm workers who lose work in that same disaster. The Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act will ensure that farm workers who put food on all our tables can continue to put food on their family’s table when disaster strikes.”
“Every year we see an alarming number of natural disasters that drastically and disproportionately impact the farm worker community. As climate change gets worse, these types of disasters will only worsen and farm workers are the ones who are affected the most by these calamities. Just last year, we saw heavy California rains flooding Ventura County farm areas and Hurricane Helen devastating Georgia’s farm worker communities, leading to organizations like ours stepping up to do what we can. But that is not enough. We must have a federal response to these kinds of disasters. From wildfires to tornadoes to hurricanes, farm workers have little to no safety net to help them recover from unexpected disasters,” said Erica Lomeli Corcoran, Chief Executive Officer at UFW Foundation. “This is exactly why the UFW Foundation is supporting the Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act. It would provide resources and aid to those who truly need it and would ensure that those responsible for our nation’s food supplies are not overlooked, as they have been in the past. Farm workers have been largely ignored and neglected by the law, shut out from basic protections provided to all workers. It is time that Congress acts and ensures that our nation’s farm workers are given the support they need to overcome times of emergencies and to provide equity to all workers.”
“Farmworkers are frontline workers, which means they are the hardest hit by the impacts of extreme weather conditions across the country. Many farmworkers feel that they are risking their health with extreme heat and colder days, but losing even one day of work is not an option for their families’ economic situation. Outdoor protections are important, yet there are days that are becoming too extreme to even be outside. Our vision is to be a resilient workforce for the agricultural industry. Disaster relief means we can start investing in addressing the issues that workers are facing today by building resilience for climate change in the future, without sacrificing the economic well-being of farmworkers,” said Reyna Lopez, Executive Director of Pineros y Campesinos Unidos del Noreste (PCUN).
Senator Padilla has fought hard to deliver relief to agricultural communities devastated by natural disasters. Earlier this year, Padilla announced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to improve access to federal agriculture disaster programs. Padilla also introduced the Smoke Exposure Research Act, legislation to better protect winegrape growers against wildfire smoke damage by strengthening research and risk management efforts at West Coast land-grant universities. Last year, he led a bipartisan coalition of California members in urging the Senate and House Agriculture Committees to incorporate permanent disaster assistance for agricultural producers and communities in the Farm Bill. The letter called for the inclusion of his bipartisan Agricultural Emergency Relief Act, which would create a permanent structure at the USDA to provide relief for farmers who lost crops due to natural disasters. Previously, Padilla introduced a pair of bills to equip the USDA to better meet the needs of farm workers. He also introduced the Fairness for Farm Workers Act last Congress to update the nation’s labor laws to ensure farm workers receive fairer wages and compensation.
Full text of the bill is available here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) are introducing legislation to safeguard Americans’ Second Amendment rights and prevent guns from falling into the wrong hands. The Protecting Communities and Preserving the Second Amendment Act would take concrete steps to improve the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), prosecute gun crime and crack down on cartel-fueled gun trafficking.
“The Second Amendment is a fundamental right established by our Founders. This bill would protect Americans’ right to bear arms, while prioritizing public safety, strengthening our national background check system and fighting gun trafficking across our southern border,” Grassley said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this commonsense measure.”
“I’m proud to work with Senator Grassley to increase support for school safety funding, improve NICS reporting and do more to prosecute criminals who illegally purchase firearms. These measures are common sense, and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this legislation, which has received bipartisan support before and should again,” Cruz said.
Specifically, the Protecting Communities and Preserving the Second Amendment Act would:
Improve recordkeeping by ensuring states submit relevant mental health records to NICS.
Preserve the Second Amendment by strengthening protections for veterans, active military members and American citizens.
Enhance accountability by directing federal agencies to issue annual reports on the records they submit to NICS and requiring the Justice Department to explain to Congress why it has, or has not, prosecuted certain gun cases.
Prioritize public safety by requiring federal and state officials to coordinate on gun law enforcement, designating federal attorneys to prosecute gun crimes and increasing the maximum sentence for straw purchasing and lying and buying schemes.
Combat cross-border gun smuggling by creating law enforcement run, firearms trafficking task forces across the southern border, at no additional cost to the taxpayer.
The full bill text is available HERE.
A section-by-section summary of the bill is available HERE.
Background:
The bill was first introduced as the “Grassley-Cruz” amendment in 2013, when it passed the Senate by a vote of 52-48. However, it couldn’t overcome a Democrat filibuster, and Republicans were in the minority.
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Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has today announced the new Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor, and the members of the Prime Minister’s Science and Technology Advisory Council.
“We have world-class scientists in our universities and research institutes, but they’re working in a system held back by outdated settings. To unlock the full potential of science and technology, we need a sharper focus on commercialisation, better access to global investment, and clearer priorities at home,” Mr Luxon says.
“This Council is a new initiative to get clear, independent advice to ensure our investments in science and technology are delivering real outcomes for New Zealanders.
“The Council will provide advice on long-term priorities for government-funded science and innovation. They will help identify areas of focus that will have the greatest benefit for Kiwis and our economy.
“I also expect them to provide bold and courageous advice about those areas that aren’t delivering value for New Zealanders and may need to be deprioritised. It’s about making sure we are investing in what will have the greatest impact for New Zealanders.”
Members of the Council bring a strong mix of scientific, commercial and strategic expertise. They include:
Sir Peter Gluckman
Craig Piggott
Professor Merryn Tawhai
Komal Mistry-Mehta
Malcolm Johns
Dr John Roche
“I am also pleased to announce that Dr John Roche has been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor. In this role, John will support robust decision making by providing high quality, independent scientific advice. John, in his capacity as my science advisor, will also be a member of the council.”
Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti, will chair the Council, with Dr John Roche as deputy chair.
“These are highly capable individuals who understand both the science and the economic imperatives. They are prepared to make the bold calls needed to ensure the system is future-focused, outcome-driven and aligned with our economic goals,” Mr Luxon says.
“A strong, well-directed science and innovation sector is critical to lifting productivity, creating high-value jobs and supporting a more resilient and competitive economy.”
The Council will provide its first formal advice to the Prime Minister and Minister Reti later this year.
Biographies of Council members:
Sir Peter Gluckman
Professor Sir Peter Gluckman ONZ KNZM FRSNZ FMedSci FRS trained as a paediatrician and biomedical scientist. He is Director of Koi Tu- Centre for Informed Futures and holds a Distinguished University Professorship at the University of Auckland. He is currently the chair of the Science System Advisory Group. Sir Peter is President of the International Science Council (ISC, 2021-2026). From 2014-2021 he was the inaugural Chair of the International Network of Government Science Advice (INGSA), and from 2009-2018 he was the first Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. He was also Science Envoy for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and coordinated the secretariat of the Small Advanced Economies Initiative. He has written and spoken extensively on science-policy and science-diplomacy and science-society interactions. He has received the highest scientific and civilian honours in New Zealand and numerous international scientific awards.
Craig Piggott
Craig Piggott is the founder of Halter. The company’s solar-powered collar for dairy and beef cows, pairs with an app for farmers and allows cows to respond to guidance cues, enabling virtual herding and fencing while monitoring health 24/7. This innovation helps farmers increase milk and protein production propelling the company to become one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing businesses with a thriving international customer base. Craig brings experience in innovation, agriculture and business.
Merryn Tawhai
Merryn Tawhai graduated from the University of Auckland with a PhD in Engineering Science in 2001. She leads a research programme at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) in applied computational physiology of the respiratory system. Merryn is the Director of the ABI and sits on the Board of Directors for Cure Kids Ventures and the Virtual Physiological Human Institute. She was ABI’s Deputy Director for 10 years, Director of the Medical Technologies Centre of Research Excellence (MedTech CoRE), and an independent Director for Izon Science. Merryn was awarded the 2016 MacDiarmid Medal by the Royal Society of New Zealand (RSNZ) Te Apārangi, is a Fellow of the RSNZ, a Fellow of IAMBE and AIMBE, and an elected member of the Fleischner Society.
Komal Mistry-Mehta
Komal is Chief Innovation & Brand Officer at Fonterra and Managing Director of the Ki Tua Fund, Fonterra’s corporate venture capital arm. She leads global innovation, research and development, digital, brand and marketing functions for New Zealand’s largest company. Prior to joining the Fonterra Executive Team, Komal led Fonterra’s global health and nutrition business based in Singapore. With experience across Asia, the America’s and Europe, she has led major transformations in sales, innovation, digital enablement and technology. Komal was named New Zealand’s Young Executive of the Year in 2017 and serves on several international boards. Komal has completed the Executive Program at Stanford University School of Business and holds Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Management degrees from the University of Waikato. She is a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand as well as a member of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants.
Malcolm Johns
Malcolm is the Chief Executive of Genesis Energy. Previously he was the Chief Executive of InterCity Group and held several governance roles within New Zealand’s transport, infrastructure and tourism sectors. He is Convenor of the Climate Leaders Coalition and served as Chair of the APEC Business Advisory Council leading the regional trade policy task force for climate change. Malcolm has extensive business acumen and understanding of Government systems
John Roche
John was appointed MPI’s Chief Science Adviser in June 2018 to provide an independent science perspective. He leads MPI’s Science Forum, chairs the Science Governance Group at MPI and the independent Mycoplasma bovis Strategic Science Advisory Group. John is also a member of the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Adviser’s forum and is an adjunct professor in University of Auckland’s School of Biological Sciences. John was previously DairyNZ’s Principal Scientist for Animal Science. He has held science appointments in Ireland and Australia. He is also Managing Director of Down to Earth Advice Ltd. Widely published and a regular contributor to international science and farming conferences, John has an Honours degree in Agricultural Science, a Masters in Farm Systems and Pasture Management, and a PhD in Animal Nutrition.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexandra Allen-Franks, Senior Lecturer, Law School, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau
A recent Supreme Court decision could have far reaching consequences on how police can use photographs as evidence.
The central question in Mahia Tamiefuna v The King was whether a photo taken by a police officer on a public road during a routine traffic stop could be used to convict a person of an unrelated crime.
According to the decision, which became public this week, the answer is no. And there are clear and compelling reasons why a majority of the court made this call.
The Tamiefuna case started with a traffic stop by a police officer in 2019. Finding the driver was unlicensed, the officer impounded the car and the occupants had to get out.
While they were standing on the road, the officer took pictures of them with his phone and uploaded the images to the national intelligence database.
The photo of Tamiefuna matched CCTV footage taken three days earlier after an aggravated robbery. At the time of the robbery, police weren’t able to identify Tamiefuna because his face was obscured.
But after the photo was uploaded to the database, police realised the clothing Tamiefuna was wearing in the photo matched the clothing from the aggravated robbery. The photo became a key piece of evidence linking him to that case and resulted in a conviction of aggravated robbery.
His appeal against the conviction was dismissed before the case came before the Supreme Court, where a majority of the court agreed with his arguments.
The court found the taking of the photo was unlawful and unreasonable because the officer wasn’t investigating any specific crime when he took it. Uploading the photo to the database and keeping it there was also unlawful and unreasonable.
If the officer had been investigating a specific crime, there is a legal framework that would have allowed the taking of photos and other information by police.
The impropriety in taking and retaining the photo was such that the court said it should have been excluded from Tamiefuna’s trial under section 30 of the Evidence Act 2006. The Crown has subsequently said it would not seek a retrial of Tamiefuna due to insufficient evidence. He is a free man.
Under the Evidence Act, a judge must decide whether to exclude evidence from the trial if a court finds it was obtained improperly. That decision is made by balancing whether exclusion would be “proportionate to the wrongdoing”.
In making that decision, the judge has to take account of “the need for an effective and credible system of justice”. If the evidence is excluded, the judge may be depriving the jury of relevant material which could help them determine what truly happened.
As such, we need a strong justification for why it may be right to keep evidence out of a trial.
In my view, there are two compelling justifications for what happened in Tamiefuna’s case. The first is called the “rights thesis”: the idea that we should exclude evidence if it has been obtained in breach of a defendant’s rights.
The logic is that if parliament declares we have a right, it should be taken seriously. And there should be consequences for violating a person’s rights. When evidence is obtained through breaching a person’s rights, the most appropriate remedy is the exclusion of the evidence.
For Tamiefuna, the evidence was obtained in breach of his right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure under section 21 of the Bill of Rights Act. With the rights thesis, we return a person back to the position they would have been in had the breach not happened.
The other justification is that we should exclude evidence if we need to uphold the integrity of the justice system (the “integrity principle”).
Courts need the ability to exclude improperly obtained evidence, because integrity as a rule-of-law concept requires our courts to act coherently. By this logic, they shouldn’t ignore wrongdoing in the obtaining of evidence.
The court shouldn’t condone illegal actions by state actors such as the police, while condemning some other conduct by finding someone guilty of crime. It matters if evidence is obtained in breach of a right.
In circumstances where parliament has marked out certain rights by including them in the Bill of Rights Act, relying on evidence obtained in breach of such rights raises serious integrity concerns.
The best way for the court to show it’s acting with integrity would be to approach this sort of evidence by presuming it should be excluded.
This may mean that “the criminal is to go free because the constable has blundered”, as American judge Benjamin Cardazo once complained. But that is a consequence we have to accept to be sure we have an effective and credible system of justice.
Tamiefuna’s case will likely lead to greater guidance for police around the taking of pictures so the same thing doesn’t happen in the future.
Some people might baulk at Tamiefuna going free, but it’s the right decision overall.
Alexandra Allen-Franks 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.
– ref. Inadmissible evidence: why a routine traffic stop and police photo went all the way to the Supreme Court – https://theconversation.com/inadmissible-evidence-why-a-routine-traffic-stop-and-police-photo-went-all-the-way-to-the-supreme-court-256203
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 8, 2025.
Women’s sports are fighting an uphill battle against our social media algorithms
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hans Westerbeek, Professor of International Sport Business, Head of Sport Business Insights Group, Victoria University Women’s sport is more and more getting the attention it deserves. Stadiums are filling, television ratings for many sports are climbing and athletes such as the Matildas’ Mary Fowler, triple Olympic gold
New taxes on super didn’t get much attention in the election campaign. But they could be tricky to implement
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Melatos, Associate Professor of Economics, University of Sydney Poetra.RH/Shutterstock The re-election of the Albanese government has led to renewed concern about planned changes to the taxation of investment returns in superannuation funds. Labor’s emphatic victory on Saturday night, including what looks like an increased presence in
New Caledonia’s political talks – no outcome after three days of ‘conclave’
By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific Desk After three solid days of talks in retreat mode, New Caledonia’s political parties have yet to reach an agreement on the French Pacific territory’s future status. The talks, held with French Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls and French Prime Minister’s special advisor Eric Thiers, have since
Forest home of ‘polar dinosaurs’ 120 million years ago in southern Australia recreated in detail for the first time
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vera Korasidis, Lecturer in Environmental Geoscience, The University of Melbourne Artwork © Bob Nicholls 2024 Roughly 140 million to 100 million years ago, the piece of land that is modern day Australia was located much further south on Earth. In fact, what is now Victoria was once
Ovarian cysts can be painful when they burst. When do you need to see a doctor?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anna Chruścik, Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock Cysts are small pockets of fluid that form inside the body. Ovarian cysts are common, affecting around one in ten women. But sometimes they can cause pain – especially when they burst. You
Keith Rankin Chart Analysis – International Trade over time: gifts with strings
Analysis by Keith Rankin. The ‘see-saw’ chart above shows the accumulated ‘excess benefits’ that Aotearoa New Zealand, and a few other countries, have enjoyed from international trade over the last 40 years. These are benefits arising from ‘unbalanced trade’ which are in addition to the regular benefits – arising from efficient specialisation – of ‘balanced’
‘Utu’ as foreign policy: how a Māori worldview can make sense of a shifting world order
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicholas Ross Smith, Senior Research Fellow, National Centre for Research on Europe, University of Canterbury Getty Images There is a growing feeling in New Zealand that the regional geopolitical situation is becoming less stable and more conflicted. China has ramped up its Pacific engagement, most recently with
While the Liberals haemorrhaged, the Nationals held their own. Is it time to break up the Coalition?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Linda Botterill, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University Among the notable features of this year’s election campaign was that Australia’s second-oldest political party was apparently missing in action. At the same time, it managed to avoid the rout inflicted on its coalition partner.
Why is hospital parking so expensive? Two economics researchers explain
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa Farrell, Professor of Economics (Health Economist), RMIT University ThirtyPlus/Shutterstock Imagine having to pay A$39 dollars a day to park your car while visiting your sick child in hospital. For families already struggling in a cost-of-living crisis, hospital parking fees are not just another expense. They can
Vietnam is poised to become a top 20 economy, so why is Australia taking so long to make trade and investment links?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Vo, Senior lecturer in Vietnamese culture and politics, University of Wollongong Aritra Deb/Shutterstock At a time of widespread global trade instability, Australia should be expanding and diversifying its economic partnerships. Supply chains remain fragile, and protectionist rhetoric is once again gaining traction in major Western economies.
Marvel’s Thunderbolts* shines a light on men’s mental illness – but falls down with this outdated plotline
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emily Baulch, Research Associate, Discipline of Media and Communications, University of Sydney Marvel Studios This piece contains spoilers. Marvel’s men are sad. And that’s a good thing. Thor’s depressed in Avengers: Endgame. Tony Stark has panic attacks in Iron Man 3. Peter grieves in Spider-Man: No Way
Australia is set to be a renewables nation. After Labor’s win, there’s no turning back
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney bmphotographer/Shutterstock An emphatic election victory for the incumbent Labor government means Australia’s rapid shift to renewable energy will continue. As Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said on Saturday: In 2022, the Australian people
Financial Times: The West’s shameful silence on Gaza – do more to restrain Benjamin Netanyahu
EDITORIAL: The Financial Times editorial board After 19 months of conflict that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and drawn accusations of war crimes against Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu is once more preparing to escalate Israel’s offensive in Gaza. The latest plan puts Israel on course for full occupation of the Palestinian territory and would
‘Under no illusions’ about France, says author of new Rainbow Warrior book
Pacific Media Watch The author of the book Eyes of Fire, one of the countless publications on the Rainbow Warrior bombing almost 40 years ago but the only one by somebody actually on board the bombed ship, says he was under no illusions that France was behind the attack. Journalist David Robie was speaking last
Australia doesn’t have a federal Human Rights Act – but the election clears the way for overdue reform
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amy Maguire, Professor in Human Rights and International Law, University of Newcastle Master1305/Shutterstock The Albanese government has achieved an historic re-election, substantially building its majority in the House of Representatives. Much has already been written about the potential for a more ambitious legislative program on the back
Samoa down in RSF media freedom world ranking due to ‘authoritarian pressure’
Talamua Online News Samoa has dropped in its media and information freedom world ranking from 22 in 2024 to 44 in 2025 in the latest World Press Freedom Index compiled annually by the Paris-based Reporters Without Borders (RSF). For the Pacific region, New Zealand is ranked highest at 16, Australia at 29, Fiji at 40,
How maximum security prison inmates and officers worked together to create a farm behind bars
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christian Tietz, Senior Lecturer in Industrial Design, UNSW Sydney Macquarie Correctional Centre Media Unit At Macquarie Correctional Centre in western New South Wales, a story of collaboration and persistence is unfolding. Inmates and prison officers are farming commercial quantities of fresh food in a purpose-built indoor facility.
Can what you eat during pregnancy and breastfeeding affect whether your child develops food allergies?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer Koplin, Evidence and Translation Lead, National Allergy Centre of Excellence; Chief Investigator, Centre of Food Allergy Research; Associate Professor and Group Leader, Childhood Allergy & Epidemiology Group, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland Maria Evseyeva/Shutterstock Many questions pop up when you’re growing or raising
How do you put a tariff on movies? Here’s what Trump’s plan could mean for Australia
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark David Ryan, Professor, Film, Screen, Animation, Queensland University of Technology Kirk Wester/Shutterstock US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a plan to impose a 100% tariff on movies “produced in foreign lands” could have a massive impact on the global entertainment industry. Film and television production
Labor says its second term will be about productivity reform. These ideas could help shift the dial
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Roy Green, Emeritus Professor of Innovation, University of Technology Sydney Summit Art Creations/Shutterstock In his victory speech, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted social policy as a major factor in Labor’s electoral success, particularly Medicare, housing and cost of living relief. He was justified in doing so. But
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
May 07, 2025
Lawmakers send Bisignano 17 letters previously sent to Acting Commissioner Dudek
“We are extraordinarily concerned about the future of the SSA under the Trump Administration, and Americans deserve information about the fate of their benefits under your watch.”
Text of Letter (PDF)
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Ranking Member of the Senate Aging Committee Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) welcomed newly-confirmed Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA) Frank Bisignano to the agency with copies of 17 letters — containing nearly 200 unanswered questions — the lawmakers had previously sent to the SSA under Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek. The push is the latest in the Senate Democrats’ Social Security War Room efforts to fight back against Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s attack on Social Security.
“We are extraordinarily concerned about the future of the SSA under the Trump Administration, and Americans deserve information about the fate of their benefits under your watch,” wrote the lawmakers.
Since President Trump took office, co-president Elon Musk and his DOGE team have worked to dismantle the Social Security Administration. Senate Democrats sent 17 letters to the SSA — helmed by then-Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek — pressing for answers and fighting back against the attack on Americans’ services and benefits.
Following Senate Republicans’ vote to confirm Frank Bisignano last night, the lawmakers redelivered the 17 letters sent to Dudek, along with a note pressing Bisignano to respond to the letters and answer for DOGE’s attacks on the SSA.
“We have not received responses to the vast majority of our questions. In fact, Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek has reportedly instructed staff to not respond to public or congressional inquiries. The limited answers we have received have been unsatisfactory,” wrote the lawmakers.
The lawmakers also highlighted their past requests for information from Bisignano — most of which went unanswered.
“You repeatedly claimed that, because you were not yet working at SSA, you did not have sufficient information to answer. You made these claims despite the fact that a former SSA employee whistleblower has reported that you have been participating extensively in high-level operational, management, and personnel decisions at SSA. Regardless of your previous claims, though, you have now been sworn in and have access to the information you claimed you need to provide us answers,” wrote the lawmakers.
Following Bisignano’s official swearing-in as SSA Commissioner earlier today, the lawmakers pressed him for urgent answers on behalf of the American people.
Senate Democrats’ Social Security War Room is a coordinated effort to fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on Americans’ Social Security. The War Room coordinates messaging across the Senate Democratic Caucus and external stakeholders; encourages grassroots engagement by providing opportunities for Americans to share what Social Security means to them; and educates Senate staff, the American public, and stakeholders about Republicans’ agenda and their continued cuts to Americans’ Social Security services and benefits.
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash on Tomoana Road, Hastings on 26 April.
He was 37-year-old Grant Ross Arthur Neville Tyler, from Akina, Hastings.
Our thoughts are with those close to him at this time.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the person who died following a crash in Awakino on 30 April.
He was 31-year-old Stan Tangaroa-Green, of Te Awamutu.
Our thoughts are with those close to him at this time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
ANCHORAGE, Alaska, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First National Bank Alaska’s (OTCQX:FBAK) net income for the first quarter of 2025 was $17.7 million, or $5.60 per share. This compares to a net income of $13.5 million, or $4.26 per share, for the same period in 2024.
“The momentum we gained in 2024 propelled the bank to a very strong first quarter performance,” said First National Board Chair and CEO/President Betsy Lawer. “Our unrivaled 600-plus employees are delivering dynamic improvements to services across the bank. By focusing on improving our customer experiences whether in person or online, we are creating efficiencies in our operations, enhancing cybersecurity awareness and reducing the impact of fraud on the bank and our customers. Our balance sheet remains well positioned to support opportunities for Alaskans.”
Loans totaled $2.6 billion as of March 31, 2025, an increase of $137.1 million during first quarter 2025, and an increase of $237.8 million compared to the same period in 2024. First quarter loan quality was strong with nonperforming loans of $4.2 million, 0.16% of outstanding loans compared to $4.3 million and 0.17% as of Dec. 31, 2024. The provision for credit losses totaled $1.5 million as of March 31, 2025, compared to $0.9 million as of March 31, 2024. The allowance for credit losses as of March 31, 2025 totaled $19.5 million, or 0.75% of total loans.
First quarter total interest and loan fee income was $56.0 million, a 5.9% decrease from $59.5 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2024. The bank repaid all borrowings in 2024 reducing earning assets. Interest income to average earning assets increased to 4.61% compared to 4.28% as of March 31, 2024.
Assets totaled $4.9 billion as of March 31, 2025, decreasing $322.9 million primarily due to the repayments under the Federal Reserve Bank Term Funding Program during 2024. Return on assets as of March 31, 2025, increased to 1.42%, forty-seven basis points higher than first quarter 2024, on strong first quarter net income performance.
Deposits and repurchase agreements totaled $4.3 billion as of March 31, 2025, compared to $4.2 billion as of March 31, 2024, and $4.4 billion as of Dec. 31, 2024. First quarter activity represented normal seasonal outflow.
Total interest expense for the quarter decreased $9.2 million compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2024 without interest incurred on borrowed funds. Interest expense to average earning assets decreased to 98 basis points compared to 1.52% as of March 31, 2024. Net interest margin through March 31, 2025, was 3.63% compared to 2.76% for the year ended March 31, 2024.
Noninterest income for first quarter 2025 was $6.8 million, an increase of 3.5% compared to first quarter 2024. Quarterly improvement occurred in fiduciary, mortgage loan servicing, and bankcard activities. Noninterest expenses for the first quarter of 2025 increased 1.0% compared to the same period in 2024. The efficiency ratio for March 31, 2025, was 49.70% and remains better than First National’s peer groups, both in Alaska and across the nation.
Shareholders’ equity was $535.1 million as of March 31, 2025, compared to $516.6 million as of Dec. 31, 2024. This $18.5 million increase resulted from a decrease in the net unrealized loss position of the securities portfolio and net income retained in excess of dividends paid. Return on equity as of March 31, 2025, was 13.49% compared to 13.60% as of Dec. 31, 2024. Book value per share increased to $168.98, compared to $163.11 as of Dec. 31, 2024. The bank’s March 31, 2025, Tier 1 leverage capital ratio of 11.72% remains above well-capitalized standards.
ABOUT FIRST NATIONAL BANK ALASKA
Alaska’s community bank since 1922, First National Bank Alaska proudly meets the financial needs of Alaskans with ATMs and 28 locations in 19 communities throughout the state, and by providing banking services to meet their needs across the nation and around the world.
In 2025, Forbes selected First National as the sixth best bank on their America’s Best Banks list, and Newsweek recognized the bank as one of the nation’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions. In 2024, Alaska Business readers voted First National “Best of Alaska Business” in the Best Place to Work category for the ninth year in a row, Best Bank/Credit Union for the fourth time, and Best Customer Service. The bank was also voted “Best of Alaska” in 2024 in the Anchorage Daily News awards, ranking as one of the top three in the Bank/Financial category for the sixth year in a row. American Banker again recognized First National as a “Best Bank to Work For” in 2024, for the seventh consecutive year.
For more than a century, the bank has been committed to supporting the communities it serves. In 2024, for the eighth consecutive reporting period, over a span of twenty-four years, First National received an Outstanding Community Reinvestment Act performance rating from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.
First National Bank Alaska is a Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender, and recognized as a Minority Depository Institution by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, as it is majority-owned by women.
CONTACT: Marketing, 907-777-3451
| Quarter Ended ($ in thousands) | |||||||||||||||
| Financial Overview (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||
| 3/31/2025 | 12/31/2024 | 9/30/2024 | 6/30/2024 | 3/31/2024 | |||||||||||
| Balance Sheet | |||||||||||||||
| Total Assets | $ | 4,890,081 | $ | 4,997,767 | $ | 5,557,306 | $ | 5,116,066 | $ | 5,212,976 | |||||
| Total Securities | $ | 1,882,332 | $ | 1,928,625 | $ | 2,602,519 | $ | 2,197,788 | $ | 2,404,078 | |||||
| Total Loans | $ | 2,607,081 | $ | 2,469,935 | $ | 2,445,596 | $ | 2,391,593 | $ | 2,369,282 | |||||
| Total Deposits | $ | 3,580,147 | $ | 3,679,155 | $ | 3,728,181 | $ | 3,698,631 | $ | 3,665,066 | |||||
| Repurchase Agreements | $ | 716,908 | $ | 743,193 | $ | 647,043 | $ | 615,096 | $ | 571,463 | |||||
| Total Deposits and Repurchase Agreements | $ | 4,297,055 | $ | 4,422,348 | $ | 4,375,224 | $ | 4,313,727 | $ | 4,236,529 | |||||
| Total Borrowing under the Federal Reserve Bank Term Funding Program | $ | – | $ | – | $ | 249,868 | $ | 249,868 | $ | 430,000 | |||||
| Unrealized loss on marketable securities, net of tax | $ | (49,465 | ) | $ | (62,985 | ) | $ | (52,020 | ) | $ | (86,857 | ) | $ | (95,809 | ) |
| Total Shareholders’ Equity | $ | 535,148 | $ | 516,562 | $ | 527,864 | $ | 485,167 | $ | 470,702 | |||||
| Income Statement | |||||||||||||||
| Total Interest And Loan Fee Income | $ | 56,005 | $ | 63,439 | $ | 64,615 | $ | 56,773 | $ | 59,493 | |||||
| Total Interest Expense | $ | 11,956 | $ | 18,591 | $ | 21,319 | $ | 16,521 | $ | 21,168 | |||||
| Provision for Credit Losses | $ | 1,535 | $ | (118 | ) | $ | (432 | ) | $ | 318 | $ | 953 | |||
| Total Noninterest Income | $ | 6,768 | $ | 7,011 | $ | 7,293 | $ | 7,389 | $ | 6,540 | |||||
| Total Noninterest Expense | $ | 25,334 | $ | 27,696 | $ | 25,928 | $ | 25,637 | $ | 25,085 | |||||
| Provision for Income Taxes | $ | 6,214 | $ | 4,350 | $ | 7,099 | $ | 6,039 | $ | 5,351 | |||||
| Net Income | $ | 17,734 | $ | 19,931 | $ | 17,994 | $ | 15,647 | $ | 13,476 | |||||
| Earnings per common share | $ | 5.60 | $ | 6.29 | $ | 5.68 | $ | 4.94 | $ | 4.26 | |||||
| Dividend per common share | $ | 4.00 | $ | 6.40 | $ | 3.20 | $ | 3.20 | $ | 3.20 | |||||
| Financial Measures | |||||||||||||||
| Return on Assets | 1.42 | % | 1.22 | % | 1.15 | % | 1.08 | % | 0.95 | % | |||||
| Return on Equity | 13.49 | % | 13.60 | % | 12.90 | % | 12.30 | % | 11.52 | % | |||||
| Net Interest Margin | 3.63 | % | 3.12 | % | 3.04 | % | 2.98 | % | 2.76 | % | |||||
| Interest Income to Average Earning Assets | 4.61 | % | 4.57 | % | 4.51 | % | 4.40 | % | 4.28 | % | |||||
| Interest Expense to Average Earning Assets | 0.98 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.47 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.52 | % | |||||
| Efficiency Ratio | 49.70 | % | 53.51 | % | 53.59 | % | 54.94 | % | 56.00 | % | |||||
| Capital | |||||||||||||||
| Shareholders’ Equity/Total Assets | 10.94 | % | 10.34 | % | 9.50 | % | 9.48 | % | 9.03 | % | |||||
| Tier 1 Leverage Ratio | 0.98 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.47 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.52 | % | |||||
| Regulatory Well Capitalized Minimum Ratio – Tier 1 Leverage Ratio | 5.00 | % | 5.00 | % | 5.00 | % | 5.00 | % | 5.00 | % | |||||
| Tier 1 (Core) Capital | $ | 584,613 | $ | 579,547 | $ | 579,884 | $ | 572,024 | $ | 566,511 | |||||
| Credit Quality | |||||||||||||||
| Nonperforming Loans and OREO | $ | 4,243 | $ | 4,313 | $ | 4,186 | $ | 4,731 | $ | 28,634 | |||||
| Nonperforming Loans and OREO/Total Loans | 0.16 | % | 0.17 | % | 0.17 | % | 0.20 | % | 1.21 | % | |||||
| Nonperforming Loans and OREO/Tier 1 Capital | 0.73 | % | 0.74 | % | 0.72 | % | 0.83 | % | 5.05 | % | |||||
| Allowance for Loan Losses | $ | 19,500 | $ | 18,025 | $ | 18,550 | $ | 19,000 | $ | 18,800 | |||||
| Allowance for Loan Losses/Total Loans | 0.75 | % | 0.73 | % | 0.76 | % | 0.79 | % | 0.79 | % | |||||
| Net interest margin, yields, and efficiency ratios are tax effected. | |||||||||||||||
| Financial measures are year-to-date. | |||||||||||||||
| Per common share amounts are not in thousands. | |||||||||||||||
Source: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house
Date: 08 May 2025 Source: Office of the Minister of Conservation
The High Court recently decided it was unlawful for the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai to authorise the killing of wildlife unless there was a direct link between killing and protecting wildlife. Incidental harm to wildlife, while not desired, sometimes happens when carrying out a lawful activity, such as consented construction works.
“This decision placed multiple projects, which previously received DOC authorisations, in a state of uncertainty,” Mr Potaka says. “Projects include activities for building new solar and wind farms, plantation forests, and powerline maintenance that are essential for supporting our growing economy.
“Today’s improvements give certainty to authority holders that their projects can continue lawfully, whether it’s for important conservation work like pest control or development and infrastructure projects.
“Today’s changes clarify how authorisations can be consistent with protecting wildlife, and that the Director-General of the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai can make authorisations. We are restoring the approach that DOC was taking for authorising activities before the Court’s decision and provide legal clarity.
“These changes keep safeguards to protect wildlife. It’s important Aotearoa New Zealand’s wildlife continues to be protected, and that species can thrive as we support a strong and growing economy.
“Under the amended Wildlife Act, authority holders are still expected to avoid and minimise harm to protected species. Examples include relocating animals before doing any construction work – to protect populations and support the ongoing viability of species,” says Mr Potaka.
“Now the amendments have been enacted, we can turn to accelerating a comprehensive review of the Wildlife Act.”
For media enquiries contact:
Email: media@doc.govt.nz
The Central Honiara Constituency (CHC) office has provided timely support with the delivery of two brand-new 15-seater buses worth $497,231.80 to the Honiara City Council (HCC), Health Division last week, Friday.
The assistance was part of the constituency’s ongoing commitment and resolute action under the leadership of Honourable Member of Parliament (MP), Gordon Darcy Lilo, to boost the delivery of healthcare services to communities within the constituency.
The support was made possible under the national government’s Constituency Development Funds (CDF) programme with funding from the CHC budget allocation for 2024.
Direct beneficiaries are Mbokonavera Clinic and Mataniko Pikinini Clinic.
The generous assistance is targeted towards improving logistics and supporting the transportation needs of the council’s health outreach programs, medical supply delivery, community health workers’ mobility, and for transporting critically sick patients from respective clinics to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) for immediate medical attention if the need arises.
“…because of the obvious challenge our nurses from these clinics faced every day with transportation, we stepped in to support, ensuring our nurses reach their work stations on time to serve our clinics, the constituents, and the wider Honiara community. Not only that, but one of the constituency’s top priorities is support for health under the essential services sector, to ensure quality and timely health services are accessible for our people,” Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Rexford Paul explained.
Mr. Paul further said, “Working collaboratively with HCC is one of our missions going forward under the Essential Services sector.
“It is the firm commitment of the constituency office, under the guidance of our Member of Parliament Gordon Darcy Lilo, to put the community first through strategic support and partnership.
“This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen service delivery and ensure the well-being of our people. We are proud to stand with the Honiara City Council in this shared mission,” he underscored.
Meanwhile, the Honiara City Clerk, Justus Denni, while acknowledging the generous assistance, recognized Hon. Lilo’s leadership and his constituency’s officers for their strong commitment to public service and community well-being, adding that the provision of this logistical support will greatly enhance the delivery of the much-needed health services in Honiara.
Held at the HCC Car Park, the handover ceremony was attended by the City Clerk Justus Denni, HCC’s Health Director, Dr Lawrance Diau, Nurses from Mbokonavera and Mataniko Clinics, CHC Officers, CHC Ward Leaders, and HCC staff.
Constituency Development Program is a national programme of the Solomon Islands Government (SIG) administered by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD).
It is implemented by the 50 constituencies in the country, purposely to improve the socio-economic livelihoods of Solomon Islanders.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Southern road police targeting red lights and mobile phones
Thursday, 8 May 2025 – 11:55 am.
Southern Road Policing Services conducted a targeted traffic operation in central Hobart yesterday, focusing on road safety offences, including drivers disobeying red lights and using mobile phones while driving.
Inspector Kathy Bennett said police were disappointed at the number of drivers who appeared to push the limits of red and orange traffic lights, failing to recognise the importance of stopping safely.
“We remind all motorists that they have a brake pedal as well as an accelerator, and the decision to rush through a changing light could have serious consequences,” she said.
Throughout the operation, officers detected and issued infringements for multiple offences:
• 22 people were caught using mobile phones
• 14 people were caught disobeying red lights
• One driver was caught not wearing a seatbelt
Inspector Bennett said these sorts of operations will continue to target dangerous driving behaviours.
“We will continue conducting targeted operations to ensure motorists adhere to the law and prioritise safety,” she said.
“If you’re on the roads, please follow the road rules, and avoid distractions while behind the wheel.”
Source: New Zealand Police
Police are now in a position to release the name of the man who died in a crash on Mokau Road, New Plymouth on 21 April.
He was 64-year-old Allan Jefferson Latoa, of Spotswood.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: Secretary Noem Puts Sanctuary City Leaders on Notice: Time to Put Americans First
lass=”text-align-center”> The Secretary blasted sanctuary jurisdictions for failing to uphold federal law and called on leaders to stand up for Americans who have been victimized by reckless sanctuary policies
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem today held a press conference highlighting the devastation sanctuary policies have caused in Illinois and across America with Angel families who shared their tragic stories of their loved ones lost because of illegal alien crime
The Secretary also called out Illinois Governor Pritzker for shielding law breakers
“As Secretary of Homeland Security, I’m going to uphold our federal immigration laws,” said Secretary Kristi Noem
“I’m going to draw attention to people who are breaking the law and violating our Constitution
I’m going to fight for the victims every single day and draw attention to them as long as we can
And President Trump will continue to do that as well
We should be united as a country around bringing violent criminals to justice and getting them out of the United States of America
”
To watch the full press conference, click here
Some of the Angel Families who attended the press conference include:
Jim Walden, Angel Father of Lance Corporal James Ray “Jimmy” Walden III
Jimmy was killed by a twice-deported illegal alien who crashed into Jimmy’s motorcycle
He was killed in Maryland, but his father lives in Illinois
Kathy Zander, Angel Mother of John Zander
Four days before his 23rd birthday, John was convinced by his best friend to snort cocaine, not knowing that his friend had spiked it with fentanyl
John died from fentanyl poisoning
Brian McCann, Angel Brother of Dennis “Denny” McCann
Denny was crossing the street when he was hit by a car in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood and dragged to his death by an illegal alien
The driver was charged in the fatal crash, but after being released on bond, he disappeared
Nancy Platania Angel Mother of Nick Platania who tragically lost his life to a fentanyl overdose
Nick worked to get others clean from drugs and started his own business before his life was tragically taken by deadly drugs funneled into American communities
There are more than 200 sanctuary jurisdictions across the nation
The following headlines are only a handful of examples of sanctuary leaders refusing to work with federal law enforcement to protect Americans
New York Governor Kathy Hochul:
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers:
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell:
Portland Police Chief Bob Day:
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell:
Boston Police Department Commissioner Michael Cox:
On April 28, 2025, President Donald Trump signed the Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens Executive Order
Under the President’s order, the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General are directed to publish a list of states and local jurisdictions that obstruct the enforcement of federal immigration laws
Under President Trump’s leadership, DHS will work with DOJ to end violations of federal immigration law and bring jurisdictions into compliance with the laws of the United States
###
Source: US State of California 2
What you need to know: The State Board of Education voted today to approve funding to support 458 schools sites and build on the nation-leading community schools initiative, which provide families the resources and support they need to thrive, like health care and mental health and social service.
Governor Gavin Newsom and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced today that the fourth and final round of community schools implementation grants – totaling more than $618 million – were unanimously approved at the May meeting of the State Board of Education earlier today.
The $4.1 billion California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP) is the nation’s largest investment in dismantling barriers to learning that lead to inequitable student outcomes. Community schools partner with education, county, and nonprofit entities to provide integrated health, mental health, and social services alongside high-quality, supportive instruction with a strong focus on community, family and student engagement.
Governor Gavin Newsom
With the addition of today’s allocation, California is now funding a total of nearly 2,500 community schools to leverage community resources in support of student wellbeing and academic success. These schools represent some of the highest-need school communities in the state of California.
California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond: “I am proud to see our Community Schools initiative continue to grow as the final cohort of grantees receive funds. These grants support our schools to address foundational needs for learning, making sure that our students are healthy and able to learn. Our Community Schools continue to serve as exemplars of programs that activate resources across the whole school community to educate the whole child. I am proud to see California continue to be at the forefront of recognizing that student wellness is a cornerstone of learning.”
State Board of Education President Linda Darling-Hammond: “Well-resourced community schools have proven to increase attendance, achievement and attainment for students, transforming their lives and improving the well-being of families, thus uplifting entire communities. Children succeed in the classroom when they are healthy, happy, and in a learning environment where they are surrounded by knowledgeable and caring adults attuned to their needs. I appreciate Governor Newsom for continuing to prioritize the community school approach in California.”
Community schools are a key initiative of California’s historic transformation of public schools that includes universal free school meals, universal transitional kindergarten, before- and after-school learning and investments in teacher training, coaching, recruitment and retention. Established in 2021 when the California Legislature passed the California Community Schools Partnership Act, and expanded in 2022, the CCSPP statewide technical assistance infrastructure supports schools and LEAs to coordinate the implementation of these initiatives for maximum impact and sustainability.
The Board’s action today awards more than $618 million to 121 LEAs across the state. Those funds will support a total of 458 schools in implementing a community schools approach at their sites. The list of awardees is available through the May 7, 2025 SBE Agenda (see Item 9, Attachment 1).
Today’s allocation builds on nearly $1.3 billion that the SBE approved last year to support 998 school sites, the $750.5 million approved in ’22-23 to support 570 school sites, and the $625.5 million approved to support 458 school sites in ’21-22 – the first year of the program.
Elk Hills Elementary is a K-8 school in the Elk Hills Elementary School District in Kern County. The school, which received CCSPP funding in 2021, organizes its community school around five priority areas: (1) early childhood education, (2) expanded learning, (3) math and literacy education, (4) family and community engagement, and (5) social and mental health services. Through this approach, Elk Hills has gradually seen improvement in a number of areas, including math and ELA scores, according to last year’s data from the California School Dashboard. Included in those results was a significant decrease in chronic absenteeism attributed to relationship-centered structures and practices that aim to enhance school connectedness among students and families.
Folsom Cordova Unified School District is a community schools district that uses “Coordination of Services Teams” to provide comprehensive support for students facing challenges. As a result of CCSPP funding, at Mills Middle School, reading outcomes have improved for five student groups in one year (African American, English Learners, Hispanic, Socioeconomically Disadvantaged, and Students with Disabilities). This engagement to support students has also supported staff retention, which has dramatically improved at this high-need middle school.
Buena Vista Horace Mann is a K-8, Spanish dual immersion, community school in the Mission District of San Francisco. A first-round CCSPP implementation grant recipient, the school utilized funding for an on-site therapist, summer school and after-school enrichment programs. The school blends state and local funding sources to offer extensive basic needs, health, and wellness resources to students and families, including on-site behavioral and mental health services and a stay-over program for families experiencing homelessness, which supports stability and safety. This approach has enabled Buena Vista Horace Mann to dramatically reduce its chronic absenteeism rate.
For more information on the California Community Schools Partnership Program, please visit CDE’s community schools webpage.
Source: US State of California 2
SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Associate Justice Helen Zukin as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four, Judge Mark Hanasono as Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three, and, pending confirmation of Justice Helen Zukin to the role of Presiding Justice, Judge Armen Tamzarian as Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four.
The Governor also announced his appointment of 12 Superior Court Judges: one in Fresno County; five in Los Angeles County; one in Orange County; one in Sacramento County; one in San Diego County; one in Santa Barbara County; one in Santa Clara County; and one in Ventura County.
Associate Justice Helen Zukin, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four. She has served as an Associate Justice in Division Four since 2023. She served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court from 2018 to 2023. Justice Zukin was a partner at Kiesel Law LLP from 2006 to 2018. She worked as a Solo Practitioner at the Law Offices of Helen E. Zukin from 1995 to 2006. She was a partner at Simke, Chodos, Silberfeld & Anteau, Inc. from 1990 to 1995. Justice Zukin worked as an associate at Greene, O’Reilly, Agnew & Broillet from 1985 to 1990. Justice Zukin received a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Presiding Justice Brian Currey. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Justice Zukin is a Democrat.
Judge Mark Hanasono, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as an Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three. He has served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2013. Judge Hanasono served as a Deputy Alternate Public Defender at the Los Angeles County Alternate Public Defender’s Office from 2004 to 2013. He was a Deputy Public Defender at the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office from 2000 to 2004. He was a Judicial Law Clerk in the District of Columbia Superior Court from 1999 to 2000. Judge Hanasono received a Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown University. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Luis A. Lavin. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Judge Hanasono is a Democrat.
Judge Armen Tamzarian, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as an Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four. He has served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2013. Judge Tamzarian was a lead appellate court attorney at the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three from 2008 to 2013. He was an associate and later a partner at Case, Knowlson, Jordan & Wright LLP from 1997 to 2008. He was a research attorney at the Los Angeles Superior Court from 1996 to 1997. Judge Tamzarian received a Juris Doctor degree from Southwestern Law School. Pending her confirmation, he will fill the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Helen Zukin to Presiding Justice. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Judge Tamzarian is a Democrat.
The compensation for each of these positions is $280,052.
Melissa Baloian, of Fresno County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Fresno County Superior Court. Baloian has worked as a Solo Practitioner since 2023. She was a Supervising Attorney at The Matian Firm from 2022 to 2023. She worked as a Solo Practitioner at the Law Office of Melissa Baloian from 2011 to 2022. Baloian served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Madera County District Attorney’s Office in 2011. She worked as a Deputy District Attorney at the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office from 2007 to 2010. Baloian served as a Deputy City Attorney at the Fresno City Attorney’s Office from 2006 to 2007. She served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Fresno County Public Defender’s Office from 2004 to 2006. Baloian received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of San Francisco, School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Adolfo Corona. Baloian is registered as no party preference.
Syna Dennis, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Dennis has served as a Commissioner in the Los Angeles Superior Court since 2023. She has served in various roles at the Los Angeles County Counsel Office including as a Principal Deputy County Counsel from 2005 to 2023 and a Senior Deputy County Counsel from 1999 to 2005. She worked as an Associate Attorney at the Law Offices of Atkins and Evans from 1989 to 1999. Dennis received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Harvey A. Silberman. Dennis is a Democrat.
Hoa Hoang, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Hoang has served as a Lead Appellate Court Attorney at the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Seven since 2018. Hoang served in various roles at the Second District Court of Appeals, including as a Senior Appellate Court Attorney from 2017 to 2018 and an Appellate Court Attorney from 2011 to 2017. Hoang worked as an Associate for Hogan Lovells US LLP from 2002 to 2010. She served as a Law Clerk at the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California from 2000 to 2002. Hoang received a Juris Doctor degree from UCLA School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Michelle W. Court to the Federal Court. Hoang is a Democrat.
Lara Bazán, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Bazán has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office since 2012. She worked as an Associate at Jones Day from 2008 to 2012. Bazán received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Southern California School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Michelle C. Kim to the Court of Appeal. Bazán is a Democrat.
Brenda C. Robinson, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Robinson has worked as a Senior Attorney at the Children’s Law Center of California since 2015. She served as a Senior Policy Deputy for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors from 2013 to 2014. Robinson worked at the Children’s Law Center as a Supervising Attorney from 2007 to 2012 and as a Staff Attorney from 2001 to 2007. Robinson was a Partner at Robinson, Wright, and Newsom from 1998 to 2001. Robinson received a Juris Doctor degree from Golden Gate University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Anne K. Richardson to the Court of Appeal. Robinson is a Democrat.
Maria Jhai, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles Superior Court. Jhai has served as an Assistant United States Attorney at the Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California since 2019. She worked as an Attorney for Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP from 2014 to 2019. Jhai held a temporary position as a Deputy City Attorney at the Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney in 2017. She served as a Law Clerk at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit from 2013 to 2014. Jhai served as a Law Clerk for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan from 2011 to 2013. Jhai received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Douglas W. Sortino. Jhai is a Democrat.
Michael Mooney, of Orange County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Orange County Superior Court. Mooney has served as a Senior Deputy Public Defender at the Orange County Public Defender since 2012. He worked as an Attorney at the Law Office of Thomas Johnson from 2011 to 2012. Mooney received a Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Julian W. Bailey. Mooney is a Democrat.
Martin Tejeda, of Yolo County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Sacramento County Superior Court. Tejeda has served as a Commissioner at the Sacramento County Superior Court since 2023. He was a Sole Practitioner at the Law Offices of Martin Tejeda from 2005 to 2023 and an Associate at Kring and Chung from 2004 to 2005. Tejeda served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Sacramento Public Defender’s Office from 2001 to 2004 and as an attorney at the Law Office of James Kuppenbender from 2000 to 2001. Tejeda received a Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Dena Coggins to the Federal Court. Tejeda is a Democrat.
Jihan Maloney, of San Diego County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the San Diego County Superior Court. Maloney has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office since 2011. She received a Juris Doctor degree from California Western School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge David Gill. Jihan is registered as no party preference.
Teresa Martinez, of Santa Barbara County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Barbara County Superior Court. Martinez has served as Senior Deputy County Counsel at the Santa Barbara County Counsel’s Office since 2018. She was an Associate at Buynak, Fauver, Archbald & Spray LLP from 2017 to 2018. Martinez was a Solo Practitioner at Teresa Martinez Law from 2016 to 2017. She worked at California Rural Legal Assistance in various roles including Directing Attorney from 2013 to 2016 and staff attorney from 2012 to 2013. Martinez was a contract attorney at the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County from 2011 to 2012. She received a Juris Doctor degree from Cincinnati College of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Jean M. Dandona. Martinez is a Democrat.
Christopher Van Meir, of Santa Clara County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Van Meir has served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Santa Clara County Public Defender’s Office since 2018. He served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Monterey County Public Defender’s Office from 2013 to 2018 and as a Deputy Public Defender at the Placer County Public Defender’s Office from 2006 to 2013. Van Meir received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Jacquiline M. Arroyo. Van Meir is a Democrat.
Carol Hubner, of Ventura County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Ventura County Superior Court. Hubner has served as a Commissioner at the Ventura County Superior Court since 2024. She served as a Commissioner at the Santa Barbara County Superior Court from 2022 to 2024. She was a Managing Partner at Kelly & Hubner, LLP from 2005 to 2022 and a Deputy County Counsel at the Santa Barbara Office of the County Counsel from 2001 to 2005. Hubner worked as an Associate at Hunt & Associates from 2000 to 2001 and as an Associate at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP from 1998 to 2000. Hubner served as a Staff Attorney at the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County from 1998 to 2000. She worked as a Law Clerk at the United States District Court for the Northern District of California in 1998. Hubner received a Juris Doctor degree from Santa Clara University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Nancy L. Ayers. Hubner is a Democrat.
The compensation for each of these positions is $244,727.
Source: US State of California 2
What you need to know: California and 16 other states today filed a federal lawsuit accusing President Trump of unlawfully withholding billions of dollars approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would reduce toxic pollution, expand access to clean vehicles and create thousands of green jobs.
SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced today that a multi-state lawsuit was filed in federal court challenging actions taken by President Trump’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to thwart Congress’s $5 billion program to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The Trump administration’s unlawful actions would cost Californians more than $300 million, eliminate thousands of good-paying jobs and hobble a critical, emerging tech industry.
On the first day of his administration, President Trump issued an executive order directing federal agencies to immediately stop releasing funds appropriated through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including $5 billion that Congress appropriated for electric vehicle charging stations under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program.
Following that directive, FHWA effectively halted the NEVI Formula Program by, among other things, unlawfully withholding billions in funds that Congress had directed to the states for building EV infrastructure.
When America retreats, China wins.
President Trump’s illegal action withholding funds for electric vehicle infrastructure is yet another Trump gift to China – ceding American innovation and killing thousands of jobs.
Instead of hawking Teslas on the White House lawn, President Trump could actually help Elon – and the nation – by following the law and releasing this bipartisan funding.
Governor Gavin Newsom
California, Colorado, and Washington led a coalition of 17 states in suing FHWA. The lawsuit states that FHWA’s unlawful actions deprive the states of billions of dollars in appropriated funds, ignores Congressional mandates, violates the U.S. Constitution and will devastate the ability of states to build the charging infrastructure necessary for making EVs accessible to more consumers, combating climate change, reducing other harmful pollution, and supporting the states’ green economies.
“The President continues to roll back environmental and climate change protections, this time illegally stripping away billions of dollars for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, all to line the pockets of his Big Oil friends,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The facts don’t lie: the demand for clean transportation continues to rise, and California will be at the forefront of this transition to a more sustainable, low-emissions future. California will not back down, not from Big Oil, and not from federal overreach.”
California’s State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plan anticipated that California would need hundreds of thousands of additional EV charging ports to support passenger cars and trucks and incrementally more charging ports for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses to meet climate goals. The plan, approved by the federal government, would leverage public funding and private investment to build out a statewide charging infrastructure, including $384 million from the NEVI program.
The lawsuit requests the court to declare that President Trump’s directives are unlawful, vacate the actions and permanently stop the administration from withholding the funds.
California’s support for clean cars is unmatched, and the state is home to more than 30% of new ZEVs sold in the U.S. With the rise in EV and plug-in hybrid demand, the state is committed to rapidly deploying funds to develop and ensure a reliable and easy-to-use charging network. The state has doubled down on improving the charging network and making it even easier to buy an EV:
The work doesn’t stop with passenger electric vehicles — the state has been hard at work to cut emissions from trucks and buses. Recent efforts include:
In addition to advancing ZEVs, the Newsom Administration is prioritizing clean fuel production, public transit and rail infrastructure enhancements, and a cleaner, smarter electric grid to help power it all. As California works toward this clean transportation future, the state is also advancing efforts to prevent gasoline price spikes.
Today’s lawsuit follows the Governor’s recent announcement that California is challenging President Trump’s authority to unilaterally enact tariffs. The Governor also intends to create new strategic trade relationships with international partners aimed at strengthening shared economic resilience and protecting California’s manufacturers, workers, farmers, businesses, and supply chains. The Governor has also announced a new international campaign to help maintain the strong tourism partnership between California and Canada.
Source: Amnesty International –
Tunisian authorities must immediately release human rights defenders, NGO workers, and former local officials who have been held in arbitrary pre-trial detention for one year because of their legitimate support for refugees and migrants, Amnesty International said today. The ongoing crackdown, part of a broader assault on civil society in Tunisia, was fueled by escalating xenophobia and has severely disrupted crucial assistance for refugees and migrants.
Since May 2024, Tunisian authorities have raided at least three NGOs providing critical assistance to refugees and migrants, arresting and detaining at least eight NGO workers, as well as two former local officials who cooperated with them. They also opened criminal investigations into at least 40 other individuals in relation to legitimate NGO work to support refugees and migrants.
“It is deeply shocking that these human rights defenders have now spent over a year in arbitrary detention, for simply assisting refugees and migrants in precarious situations. They should have never been arrested in the first place,” said Sara Hashash, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International.
The Tunisian authorities must immediately release and drop all charges against those detained solely for their human rights and humanitarian work.
Sara Hashash, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International.
“This reckless crackdown on the staff of organizations operating under Tunisian law has had devastating humanitarian consequences for refugees and migrants in the country and represents a deeply harmful setback for human rights in Tunisia. The Tunisian authorities must immediately release and drop all charges against those detained solely for their human rights and humanitarian work.”
On 3 and 4 May 2024, Tunisian police arrested Mustapha Djemali and Abderrazak Krimi, respectively director and project manager of the Tunisian Council for Refugees (CTR), a Tunisian NGO working with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the Tunisian authorities to pre-register asylum seekers and provide essential assistance to refugees and asylum seekers. Authorities have held them under successive pretrial detention orders for over a year now, while investigating them for “assisting the clandestine entry” of foreign nationals and “providing [them] shelter”, solely based on their work for the CTR.
From 7 to 13 May 2024, the police arrested Sherifa Riahi, Yadh Bousselmi and Mohamed Joo, respectively former director, director and administrative and financial director of Terre d’asile Tunisie, the Tunisian branch of French NGO France Terre d’asile.
Judicial authorities have held them in pretrial detention since then and are prosecuting them on charges of “sheltering individuals illegally entering or leaving the territory” and “facilitating the irregular entry, exit, movement or stay of a foreigner”, solely for providing critical assistance to refugees and migrants. When closing the investigation, the investigative judge cited a “European-backed civil society plan to promote the social and economic integration of irregular migrants into Tunisia and their permanent settlement” to support the charge.
On 11 May 2024, the police also arrested former deputy mayor of Sousse Imen Ouardani under the same charges, as well as the additional charge of using her position as public official “to obtain an unjustified advantage or harm the administration,” solely because of the collaboration between the municipality and Terre d’asile Tunisie.
Under international law, pretrial detention should only be used as an exception, to avoid undermining the presumption of innocence, and based on an individualized assessment which shows that the detention is necessary and proportionate because of a substantial risk of flight, interference with the investigation, harm to others or reiteration of the alleged offence. The Tunisian authorities have not demonstrated any of these grounds with regard to these individuals.
“Detaining human rights defenders criminalizes essential human rights and humanitarian work. Providing support to refugees and migrants – irrespective of their legal status – is protected under international law and should never be equated with human smuggling or trafficking,” said Sara Hashash.
Tunisia is party to the UN Convention on Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocols, which set out precise standards for the definition of human smuggling and trafficking, exempting legitimate human rights and humanitarian work.
The May 2024 crackdown took place after xenophobic and racist social media smear campaigns against several organizations including the CTR and Terre d’asile Tunisie, after the CTR published a tender for hotels to shelter asylum seekers and refugees in precarious situations, in response to a request for assistance from UNHCR and local authorities.
On 6 May 2024, President Kais Saied accused NGOs working on migration of being “traitors” and “[foreign] agents”, and of seeking the “settlement” of Sub-Saharan migrants in Tunisia. A day later, a public prosecutor in Tunis announced the opening of an investigation against NGOs for providing “financial support to illegal migrants”.
The crackdown which has involved the detention of NGO staff and freezing of NGOs’ bank accounts has triggered the suspension of vital services since May 2024, disrupting access to asylum procedures, shelter, healthcare, child protection, and legal aid. This has left potentially thousands of refugees and migrants, including unaccompanied children, in precarious and uncertain situations and at greater risk of facing human rights violations and abuse.
In April 2025, Tunisia’s Interior Minister, Khaled Ennouri, said that the authorities were prepared to “confront all plans to alter the demographic composition of the Tunisian population”. Such comments have contributed to an ongoing spike in racist violence against Black refugees and migrants, notably in border regions. Social media users have shared videos of themselves “tracking down [Black] Africans” and threatening violence and other abuse against them.
Other organizations targeted include anti-racism organization Mnemty – nine of their staff and partners have been under investigation since May 2024 for financial crimes for which the authorities have yet to provide evidence – and the children’s rights NGO Children of the Moon of Medenine. Authorities have also detained the executive director of the Association for the Promotion of the Right to Difference (ADD), Salwa Ghrissa, since 12 December 2024, pending investigation into the organization’s funding.
Tunisian authorities must immediately cease the criminalization of human rights and humanitarian work and end the dangerous scapegoating and vilification of civil society.
Sara Hashash, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International.
“Tunisian authorities must immediately cease the criminalization of human rights and humanitarian work and end the dangerous scapegoating and vilification of civil society,” said Sara Hashash.
Racist and xenophobic rhetoric has been repeated by Tunisian officials and members of the parliament over the past two years, starting with racist remarks made by President Kais Saied in February 2023.
Since May 2024, Tunisian authorities have also continued to carry out forced evictions and unlawful collective expulsions of refugees and migrants to Libya and Algeria regularly. In early April 2025, authorities announced an “operation of dismantlement” in the eastern region of Sfax, where refugees and migrants had established makeshift camps in the past two years, after having been forcibly evicted and relocated from urban areas by the authorities.
The wave of arrests of May 2024 is part of a wider attack on civil society. Ahead of the 2024 October presidential elections, authorities opened investigations into NGOs I Watch and Mourakiboun in relation to their funding and prevented them from observing the elections.
Tunisian financial authorities have subsequently opened investigations into at least a dozen organizations over funding and activities protected under the right to freedom of association, while banks have increasingly delayed or obstructed incoming transfers of funds from abroad, demanding excessive documentation regarding the transfers, thereby impeding NGO operations.
Modernising Islam? The Limits of Liberal Reforms in Muslim Nations explores the complex and often fraught attempts at modernisation in Muslim-majority countries. From Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 to the UAE’s drive for economic diversification, and from Turkey’s reversal of Atatürk’s secular reforms to Tunisia’s struggles post-Arab Spring, this book critically examines the challenges of reconciling liberal reforms with deeply entrenched religious and political structures.
Author Rumy Hasan provides a thought-provoking analysis of whether these reforms represent genuine progress or merely superficial adjustments to maintain power. Drawing on historical context and contemporary developments, he explores key issues, including the role of Sharia law, the status of women, freedom of expression, and the relationship between Islam and democracy.
With in-depth case studies spanning the Gulf states, North Africa, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia, this book questions whether meaningful change is possible in societies where religion remains deeply intertwined with governance. It also considers whether Saudi Arabia’s recent reformist rhetoric could set a precedent for the wider Islamic world—or whether entrenched theological doctrines will continue to limit progress.
A compelling and incisive read, this book is essential for anyone interested in global politics, Middle Eastern affairs, and the intersection of religion and modernity.
This book is instructive, precise and very well documented. Taking in consideration different Islamic countries, it explains how difficult the reformation of Islam is. And when reforms have been adopted, there remains always the danger of cancelling them, as happened with Turkey after Atatürk’s death.
– Prof Sami Aldeeb, Director, Centre of Arab and Islamic Law, St Sulpice, Switzerland
Rumy Hasan approaches difficult issues in the Muslim world with a sharp intellect and penetrating analysis.
– Sir Alan Duncan, former UK Foreign Minister
Paperback (236 pages) £9.99; $13.25; Ebook £3.99; $4.50
Michael Terence Publishing, 2025;
ISBN-139781800949836; 9781805880196
ASIN: B0F4FLKJKN
Available now from book outlets and distributors worldwide.
About the Author
Rumy Hasan is Associate Professor at SPRU, University of Sussex and a Visiting Professorial Research Fellow at Civitas. His previous books include Multiculturalism: Some Inconvenient Truths; Dangerous Liaisons: The Clash between Islamism and Zionism; Religion and Development in the Global South; and Modern Europe and the Enlightenment.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
In the first episode, Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., explains how to apply for VA benefits—especially for those who served many years or even decades ago. He walks viewers through exactly how to get started today.
For more information, please visit: https://www.va.gov
#VeteranBenefits #VeteranAffairs #VAHealthcare
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Tacoma, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —
In This Article, You’ll Discover:
TL;DR Summary:
BadCreditLoans.com has emerged as a leading online solution for consumers searching for payday loans for bad credit and emergency funding with low credit scores. This comprehensive review explores how the platform works, who qualifies, and why it’s one of the top low credit lending options in 2025. From loan matching powered by fintech to flexible repayment terms and secure applications, BadCreditLoans connects borrowers to an expansive network of lenders without requiring perfect credit.
Whether you’re looking for same-day funding, no credit check loans, or simply want to explore fast online payday loan options, this article outlines every key detail, including eligibility requirements, pricing, and borrower protections. Customer reviews and competitive comparisons are included to help you make an informed decision.
Disclaimer: Loan offers, terms, and interest rates may vary by lender. Always confirm final pricing and conditions on the official website, as they are subject to change without notice.
Introduction
Bad Credit Loans: A Trusted Lifeline for Low-Credit Borrowers
In today’s economic climate, more individuals than ever are struggling with limited credit access. Whether it’s due to past financial hardships, job loss, or emergency expenses, the reality is that a large segment of the population finds themselves turned away by traditional lenders. That’s where platforms like BadCreditLoans.com come in — a digital service built to help consumers with poor or no credit history connect with potential lenders for payday loans and other urgent cash needs.
This review is designed for those facing financial uncertainty and wondering:
Where can I turn when my credit score is low, and bills can’t wait?
Understanding the Financial Struggles of Bad Credit Borrowers
Why Borrowers with Bad Credit Face Unique Financial Barriers
For millions of Americans, financial emergencies don’t wait for a perfect credit score. A single late payment, job loss, medical bill, or sudden expense can significantly lower your credit score, placing you in a category traditional banks often avoid: subprime or low-credit borrowers.
Traditional lenders typically rely on strict credit scoring models that penalize individuals for missed payments, high credit utilization, or limited credit history. As a result, consumers in need of urgent financial relief, often searching for payday loans for bad credit or emergency loans with bad credit, are denied at the moment they need help most.
Common Pain Points for Low-Credit Borrowers
Low-credit borrowers frequently experience a frustrating loop:
This creates a financial bottleneck, where options become increasingly scarce, even as the need grows more urgent.
Who’s Affected by These Barriers?
The challenge of accessing affordable lending doesn’t only impact those with mismanaged finances. Many borrowers seeking low credit score loans are:
This diverse group — often labeled “credit invisibles”—may not have extensive borrowing histories, but they do have legitimate, time-sensitive financial needs.
When Traditional Credit Fails
When banks say “no,” borrowers are often left with two choices:
This is where BadCreditLoans.com stands out. The platform acts as a secure bridge between borrowers and vetted lenders, offering a mobile-first lending experience designed to provide fast approvals, even for those with poor credit histories.
Disclaimer: Loan approval through BadCreditLoans is not guaranteed. Lending decisions are made solely by third-party lenders, and terms will vary. Always review individual lender terms before accepting an offer.
Why a Better Option Is Needed in 2025
With rising costs of living, stagnant wages, and increased reliance on alternative income sources, more consumers are seeking online payday loans and same-day funding options. Unfortunately, the market is also seeing a rise in fraudulent or misleading financial offers.
Borrowers today demand:
BadCreditLoans.com addresses these concerns by offering a fintech lending platform that uses AI-powered loan matching, giving low-credit borrowers a safer and smarter alternative.
Introducing BadCreditLoans.com: A Beacon for Low-Credit Borrowers
What Is BadCreditLoans.com?
BadCreditLoans.com is not a direct lender — it’s an online loan aggregator platform that connects individuals with low credit scores to a wide network of potential lenders. The company has operated since 1998 and has established itself as a trusted digital lending gateway for consumers searching for payday loans for bad credit, emergency loans, and no credit check loan options.
Rather than applying individually to multiple lenders — which can trigger repeated hard inquiries and further damage your credit — BadCreditLoans uses a single, secure online application to match you with lenders willing to work with borrowers in your credit range.
A Fintech-Driven Solution to Modern Lending Needs
The platform has adapted to meet the changing landscape of digital finance. Using AI-powered loan matching technology, BadCreditLoans analyzes borrower profiles in real time to pair users with lenders that align with their needs — offeringfast approval loans and same-day funding when available.
This mobile-first lending experience ensures borrowers can apply and receive results conveniently from their smartphone, tablet, or desktop — 24/7.
What Makes BadCreditLoans Different?
Here’s what separates BadCreditLoans from other platforms in the subprime lending space:
Disclaimer: BadCreditLoans.com is not a lender. All loan decisions, APRs, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria are determined by individual lenders. Always review any loan agreement carefully before accepting.
A Secure Online Application You Can Trust
In a digital age filled with scams and unreliable lenders, BadCreditLoans takes security seriously. The platform uses advanced encryption protocols to protect personal and financial information during the application process.
Borrowers can submit applications confidently, knowing their data is safeguarded and shared only with potential lending partners within the BadCreditLoans network.
Who Can Benefit Most?
BadCreditLoans is ideal for:
In short, if you’re searching for the best loans for bad credit in 2025, BadCreditLoans provides a streamlined, secure path forward — one built for convenience, transparency, and flexibility.
How BadCreditLoans.com Works: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the Application Process with Ease
BadCreditLoans.com simplifies what is traditionally a stressful and time-consuming process. By offering a digital loan onboarding experience designed specifically for low-credit borrowers, the platform removes unnecessary friction and helps applicants connect with lenders in minutes.
Let’s walk through the entire process — from application to funding.
Step 1 — Submit the Online Application
The first step is filling out a secure, no-cost online form directly on BadCreditLoans.com. This includes:
Unlike traditional banks, this initial application will not harm your credit score. It is designed for borrowers searching for no-credit-check loans or those with low credit scores who need quick funding options.
Step 2 — Receive Loan Offers from Potential Lenders
After submitting the application, BadCreditLoans uses AI-powered loan matching to compare your information with its network of partner lenders.
You may receive multiple offers with varying:
Each lender has its own criteria, but most are open to working with credit invisibles, freelancers, gig workers, and others who may have difficulty qualifying through conventional channels.
Disclaimer: Loan availability, rates, and approval outcomes vary by lender and applicant profile. Always review each lender’s terms before proceeding.
Step 3 — Review, Accept, or Decline Offers
One of the platform’s most empowering features is transparency. There is no obligation to accept any offer. You’re free to:
BadCreditLoans encourages users to borrow responsibly — a key differentiator from many predatory payday lenders that pressure borrowers into accepting high-APR loans.
Step 4 — Receive Your Funds
Upon accepting a loan offer and completing any additional verification steps (such as confirming employment or banking details), many lenders offer:
This is especially valuable for users facing financial emergencies — such as medical bills, utility cutoffs, or urgent home repairs — who need fast approval loans.
Step 5 — Repayment and Support
Loan repayment is handled directly between the borrower and the selected lender. Repayment terms are set in advance and may include:
Be sure to confirm:
Disclaimer: Always read the full loan agreement. Not all lenders allow early repayment without penalty. Terms and conditions vary.
Why This System Works for Low-Credit Borrowers
This step-by-step process is designed to provide structure and peace of mind for individuals who typically feel shut out of the lending system. With a mobile-first lending interface, transparent offers, and no upfront fees, BadCreditLoans.com is built to support financial inclusion, not exploitation.
For users searching for online payday loans, bad credit personal loans, or emergency loans without a credit check, the platform offers a fast, secure, and user-friendly alternative in 2025’s evolving lending market.
Eligibility Criteria and Requirements
Understanding who qualifies for a loan through BadCreditLoans.com is essential. The platform is designed to serve individuals who have historically been underserved by traditional financial institutions, including those with bad credit, limited credit history, or unconventional income sources.
This section outlines the basic qualifications you’ll need to meet, as well as the inclusive approach BadCreditLoans takes in helping more people gain access to emergency funds.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for a loan offer through BadCreditLoans, you must meet the following minimum requirements:
These requirements are intentionally flexible to ensure that individuals in varying financial circumstances — including part-time workers, freelancers, and those recovering from financial setbacks — have an opportunity to apply.
Credit History Requirements
One of the most appealing features of BadCreditLoans is its accessibility to individuals with low or no credit scores. Many of the lenders in the network accept applicants who:
The use of soft credit inquiries ensures that submitting an application will not negatively affect your credit score, a crucial feature for those already navigating credit challenges.
Alternative Approval Metrics
Unlike traditional banks, many lenders connected through BadCreditLoans look at a broader picture when evaluating your application. They may consider:
This inclusive underwriting process helps more people qualify for essential funding, even without a strong credit history. It aligns with emerging trends in fintech that prioritize real-time income verification and cash flow-based decision-making over legacy credit models.
Designed for Financial Inclusion
BadCreditLoans supports financial inclusion by helping underserved populations access transparent, regulated lending solutions, not high-interest payday traps. It fills a crucial gap in today’s lending market, providing fast approval options for people who may not have any other viable short-term alternatives.
If you’ve searched for terms like “low credit score loans,” “bad credit loans online,” or “no credit check payday loans,” this platform is likely one of the most accessible paths forward.
Disclaimer: Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee loan approval. All loan offers are subject to individual lender evaluation and may vary based on your profile.
Loan Terms, Rates, and Repayment Options
BadCreditLoans.com doesn’t issue loans directly but facilitates access to a broad range of lending options through its network of financial partners. The terms you receive will depend on the lender, your application details, and the type of loan product you pursue. Still, the platform provides a general structure for what borrowers can expect, giving users a clearer view of their options before committing.
Loan Amounts
Borrowers may be eligible for loans ranging from as little as $500 up to $10,000. These amounts can serve a variety of short-term or emergency needs — from utility bills and medical expenses to car repairs and rent payments. The flexibility in loan size ensures that users aren’t forced into borrowing more than they can reasonably afford.
Interest Rates and APR
Annual Percentage Rates (APR) typically fall between 5.99% and 35.99%, depending on the lender and the applicant’s financial profile. Factors that affect your APR include:
While these rates are higher than those offered to borrowers with excellent credit, they are often more competitive and transparent than traditional payday loan storefronts.
Disclaimer: APR ranges are determined by the individual lender and not BadCreditLoans.com. Your final APR will vary based on lender evaluation. Always review your loan offer carefully before accepting.
Repayment Terms
Repayment windows generally range from 3 months to 60 months. Short-term loans may require lump-sum repayment within a few weeks, while installment loans offer the convenience of scheduled monthly payments over a longer period.
Some lenders may offer early payoff options without penalties, giving borrowers a chance to reduce interest by paying ahead of schedule.
If you’re applying for a small loan to cover urgent costs, many users find repayment periods of 6 to 12 months to be a manageable middle ground, balancing affordability with speed.
Transparency and Disclosures
BadCreditLoans.com emphasizes lender transparency. Borrowers will be presented with:
There are no application or platform fees charged by BadCreditLoans. However, lenders may include origination fees, late payment penalties, or other costs in their individual agreements.
Disclaimer: Loan fees, repayment flexibility, and total interest vary by lender. Be sure to read all terms before signing. Prepayment penalties may apply in some cases — always ask your lender directly if you’re unsure.
Payment Collection Methods
Most lenders automate repayment through scheduled bank account withdrawals. You’ll need to ensure sufficient funds are available on your agreed-upon payment dates to avoid overdraft fees or late penalties.
In some cases, lenders offer web-based portals or mobile app support for tracking your repayment progress, updating payment information, or requesting due date changes.
Who do These Loan Terms Benefit Most
Borrowers looking for:
… will likely find these lending structures supportive and adaptive to real-life situations.
For those seeking “bad credit loans online,” “emergency loans with bad credit,” or “fast approval loans” — this section of the process is where peace of mind starts.
Disclaimer on Pricing: Loan costs, interest rates, and fees are determined by individual lenders. Pricing is subject to change at any time. Always check the official BadCreditLoans.com website or your lender’s site for the most up-to-date pricing and terms.
Comparing BadCreditLoans.com to Other Lending Platforms
Borrowers exploring online lending options for bad credit quickly find that not all services deliver the same value. Some platforms are limited in scope, while others may impose hidden fees or fail to prioritize consumer protection. This section outlines how BadCreditLoans.com stands apart from competing services in the low-credit lending space.
A Broader Network for More Loan Offers
Unlike many payday loan sites that connect users to just one lender, BadCreditLoans.com gives applicants access to a network of vetted financial providers. This increases the chances of receiving multiple offers, helping users compare loan amounts, APRs, and terms. Borrowers seeking “best loans for bad credit” or “emergency loans with bad credit” benefit from this flexible structure.
Zero Application Fees
Many platforms charge upfront service or processing fees, especially those targeting low-credit borrowers. BadCreditLoans.com, in contrast, offers:
This fee-free approach makes it ideal for those already navigating tight budgets or financial emergencies.
Credit-Sensitive Approval Model
While some lenders require a hard credit pull upfront, BadCreditLoans uses a soft credit inquiry during the application process. This means:
Consumers who’ve faced multiple denials from banks or credit unions often find their first path forward here.
Transparency and Borrower Control
The platform gives users the ability to review, decline, or accept any offer without pressure. Each loan offer includes:
Borrowers researching “no credit check payday loans” or “safe online lending for bad credit” will appreciate this open, user-centric approach.
Security and Trust
BadCreditLoans employs advanced encryption to protect personal data. This is a major differentiator in a space where many digital loan platforms fall short on privacy practices. Data is only shared with verified lending partners, and the application is protected by secure protocols.
Summary of Key Differentiators
These features work together to create a platform that aligns with the needs of borrowers searching for “online payday loans for bad credit” and “fast approval loans with no hidden fees.”
Disclaimer: Terms, availability, and borrower outcomes vary by lender. Always read individual loan offers carefully and verify details directly with the lender before proceeding.
Customer Testimonials and Reviews
When evaluating any financial service, especially one tailored to individuals with bad credit, real user feedback is one of the most valuable sources of insight. While platform features and lender terms are important, the true test of a lending service’s effectiveness is how it performs in the real world for people in financial distress.
BadCreditLoans.com has garnered a solid reputation over the years, largely because of its consistent delivery of fast, accessible, and transparent loan-matching services. This section captures what users are saying and why these experiences matter for those considering using the platform.
What Customers Are Saying
Many borrowers turn to BadCreditLoans after facing rejection from traditional banks. For these individuals, being matched with a lender who’s willing to work with a poor credit history is not just helpful — it’s essential.
Users commonly report:
These first-hand accounts reveal a recurring theme: borrowers feel they’ve been given a second chance to stabilize their finances. For people who are used to being penalized for past mistakes, that access alone can be life-changing.
Positive Experiences in Key Areas
Beyond approval and funding speed, users consistently highlight the following:
This transparency and optionality stand in contrast to many “instant approval” payday loan sites that often steer applicants into rigid or expensive repayment structures without clarity.
Constructive Criticism and Realistic Expectations
While the platform has helped many, it’s important to mention that no lending service is without criticism. Some reviewers mention:
Most of these critiques are directed at the third-party lenders within the network, not BadCreditLoans itself. This highlights an important point: once a loan offer is accepted, the borrower’s relationship is with the individual lender, not the BadCreditLoans platform.
Disclaimer: Loan experiences vary by borrower. All terms, communication, and funding schedules are set by third-party lenders. Always ask for clarification on repayment dates and APR prior to signing.
Reputation in the Online Lending Industry
BadCreditLoans is frequently listed among the top loan matching platforms for bad credit borrowers, especially those seeking payday loan alternatives. Its long-standing operation, transparent application flow, and no-fee structure continue to position it as a competitive and trustworthy option in the market.
Borrowers who search for “trusted payday loan options in 2025” or “customer-reviewed bad credit loans” will likely encounter BadCreditLoans as a top result, and with good reason.
Addressing Potential Concerns and Risks
Borrowing money with a bad credit score can be intimidating — and with good reason. The lending industry is filled with providers who offer fast cash but bury harmful terms in the fine print. For borrowers seeking urgent funds, it’s easy to overlook the long-term impact of loan agreements made under pressure.
BadCreditLoans.com is structured to reduce that risk. Still, it’s important to address the most common concerns borrowers have and explain how the platform helps mitigate them.
Is BadCreditLoans a Scam?
One of the most frequently asked questions from first-time users is whether BadCreditLoans is legitimate. The answer is yes — the platform has been operating since 1998 and functions as a loan matching service, not a lender.
BadCreditLoans.com connects borrowers with lenders in a transparent, no-pressure environment and protects user information through secure encryption. For those searching “is BadCreditLoans legit or a scam,” this clarity is critical.
Data Privacy and Security
When entering personal financial details online, privacy is always a concern. BadCreditLoans uses industry-standard encryption and security protocols to ensure your application data is protected. Your information is shared only with the lenders considering your request.
This is a major safeguard, especially compared to unregulated sites that may sell your data to marketing companies or unrelated third parties.
APR and Repayment Risks
Loan agreements provided by BadCreditLoans’ network of lenders can include a wide range of APRs — some exceeding 30%, depending on the applicant’s risk profile and loan type. While these are clearly disclosed during the offer stage, borrowers must remain cautious.
Before accepting any offer:
Disclaimer: APRs and fees vary by lender. Always read loan terms carefully. Declining a loan offer will not impact your ability to use the platform again.
What Happens if You Miss a Payment?
Missing a payment with any lender can result in late fees, additional interest charges, and possible credit reporting. Most lenders in the BadCreditLoans network offer automated withdrawals and email reminders, but it’s still your responsibility to ensure payments are made on time.
If you foresee a problem:
This level of borrower control is another reason BadCreditLoans is often preferred over brick-and-mortar payday loan stores, where flexible repayment terms are rare.
Recognizing Responsible Borrowing Practices
BadCreditLoans emphasizes responsible borrowing through:
These features give borrowers time to make informed decisions and avoid falling into a long-term cycle of high-interest debt.
Bottom Line on Risk
Any financial agreement comes with potential downsides. But for consumers seeking payday loans for bad credit or emergency cash options in 2025, BadCreditLoans offers a safer and more transparent alternative to many of the predatory lenders in the market.
Disclaimer: Not all loan outcomes are ideal for every borrower. If you are unsure about a loan’s terms or repayment structure, consult a financial professional before signing.
Pricing, Fees, and Contact Information
When considering any financial product — especially in the subprime lending space — it’s critical to understand the full cost. One of the most valuable features of BadCreditLoans.com is its commitment to transparency: there are no hidden charges for using the platform, and all lender-provided fees are disclosed upfront before any agreement is made.
Cost to Use the Platform
There is no fee to submit a loan request through BadCreditLoans.com. You can:
This distinguishes the platform from services that charge application or matching fees, often without improving the borrower’s outcomes.
Possible Lender Fees
Although the platform itself is free to use, individual lenders within the network may include:
Lenders are required to disclose all costs, including the APR, total loan repayment amount, and fee structures, before you accept any offer. Reading this information thoroughly is essential to borrowing responsibly.
Disclaimer: All loan fees and pricing are set by the individual lender, not BadCreditLoans.com. Always review the official loan agreement before accepting. Declining an offer does not cost anything.
APR Ranges and Total Cost
APR — or Annual Percentage Rate — is one of the most important numbers to consider. While rates vary, they typically range between 5.99% and 35.99%, depending on your income, credit profile, and loan amount.
A higher APR means a higher cost of borrowing over time. However, lenders offering short-term payday loans for bad credit may still fall within this range, especially when compared to in-person payday storefronts, where APRs can exceed 400%.
Disclaimer on Pricing: The lender provides all APRs, fees, and repayment terms. Pricing is subject to change at any time. Please refer to the official website or the individual lender’s page for the most accurate and current details.
Transparency and Borrower Confidence
Bad Credit Loans does not attempt to upsell, pressure, or manipulate users into accepting offers. You remain fully in control, and the platform’s fee-free approach makes it accessible to anyone seeking a secure and affordable way to explore bad credit loan options.
For those researching “payday loans for bad credit” or “trusted bad credit loan providers,” knowing exactly what you’ll pay — and who to contact if you need help — is essential to making informed financial decisions.
Is BadCreditLoans.com the Right Choice for You?
Not every lending platform suits every borrower, but for those facing credit challenges, limited options, or urgent financial needs, BadCreditLoans.com is positioned as a strong contender in the online lending space. This section helps you evaluate whether the platform aligns with your situation, financial goals, and borrowing preferences.
Who Benefits Most from This Platform?
BadCreditLoans.com is ideal for individuals who:
If you’ve been searching for “online payday loans for bad credit,” “fast approval loans with no credit check,” or “trusted lenders for low credit borrowers,” this platform is built with your profile in mind.
Key Advantages That Set It Apart
These features work together to provide access, transparency, and a higher degree of borrower control compared to traditional payday loan services.
Important Considerations Before Applying
While the platform is designed to simplify the lending process, you should still approach every loan decision with care:
Borrowers who rush through this stage often overlook repayment costs or potential penalties, leading to unnecessary financial strain later on.
Disclaimer: Loan terms, interest rates, and funding timelines are determined by individual lenders. Approval is not guaranteed. Always verify loan details directly with the lender before signing.
Final Verdict
BadCreditLoans.com provides a streamlined, secure, and user-focused way to explore financing when traditional options are unavailable. It empowers users to compare offers, maintain control over their decisions, and connect with lenders who understand the realities of bad credit borrowing.
If you’re facing urgent financial pressure, need a low-credit loan, and want a platform that prioritizes transparency and trust, BadCreditLoans.com offers a compelling path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is BadCreditLoans.com and how does it work?
BadCreditLoans.com is an online loan matching platform that connects individuals with low credit scores to lenders offering payday loans, installment loans, and other short-term financial solutions. Instead of acting as a lender itself, it securely gathers your application information, performs a soft credit inquiry, and uses AI-powered loan matching to present you with offers from vetted lenders — all within minutes.
Can I get a payday loan with bad credit?
Yes. One of the key benefits of using Bad Credit Loans is its focus on helping individuals find payday loans for bad credit. Many lenders in the network specialize in working with borrowers who have low or no credit scores, offering flexible terms and approval based on income and other factors.
Will using BadCreditLoans.com hurt my credit score?
No. The platform only uses soft credit checks during the application process, which do not impact your credit score. However, if you choose to accept a loan offer, the lender may conduct a hard inquiry prior to finalizing approval.
Are no credit check loans really available through BadCreditLoans?
Some lenders in the BadCreditLoans network offer no credit check loans or rely on alternative credit evaluation methods such as income verification, employment history, and banking activity. While not all lenders skip traditional checks, borrowers searching for “no credit check payday loans” will find many accessible options here.
How much money can I borrow?
Loan amounts typically range from $500 to $10,000. The exact amount you’re eligible for depends on your application profile, income level, repayment ability, and the lender’s policies. Whether you need a small cash advance or a larger emergency loan, the platform can match you accordingly.
How fast can I receive the funds?
Many borrowers receive funds within one business day after accepting a loan offer. Some lenders may offer same-day deposit, especially for smaller amounts. This makes BadCreditLoans a useful option for emergency loans with bad credit when time is critical.
Disclaimer: Funding timelines vary by lender and application completeness. Always confirm expected deposit dates directly with your lender.
What are the interest rates and repayment terms?
Annual Percentage Rates (APR) vary between 5.99% and 35.99%, depending on the lender and your financial profile. Repayment terms generally range from 3 to 60 months. Every loan offer includes detailed disclosures regarding the total repayment amount, monthly payments, and fees.
Disclaimer: APRs and repayment terms are determined by individual lenders. Always review the full loan agreement before signing.
Can I repay my loan early?
Many lenders allow early repayment without penalty, potentially saving you money on interest. Always check your specific loan agreement or contact your lender to confirm prepayment terms.
What if I miss a payment?
Missing a payment can result in late fees and negatively impact your credit if the lender reports it. If you anticipate difficulty making a payment, contact your lender immediately. Some lenders may offer payment extensions or restructuring options.
Is BadCreditLoans.com safe to use?
Yes. The platform uses secure encryption protocols to protect your personal and financial data. Your information is shared only with lenders who are evaluating your loan request — never with unrelated third parties.
Who should use BadCreditLoans?
This platform is best suited for:
Is there a fee to use BadCreditLoans.com?
No. The platform is completely free to use. You can apply, compare loan offers, and decline offers without paying any fees to BadCreditLoans.com. However, lenders may include fees in their offers, such as origination charges or late penalties.
Legal Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure
The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and timeliness of the content at the time of publication; however, no representations or warranties are made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or applicability of the information, including but not limited to any inadvertent errors, typographical mistakes, or outdated data. Neither the publisher, the authors, the content providers, nor any syndication partners shall be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages arising from the use, reliance upon, or interpretation of the information contained herein.
The content does not guarantee loan approval, funding timelines, credit outcomes, or financial results. Readers are strongly encouraged to independently verify all information, consult directly with lenders or financial institutions, and seek advice from licensed professionals before making any financial decisions.
The purpose of this website and its content is to connect potential borrowers with lenders and financial service providers who advertise on this website. The operator of this website is not a lender, broker, or financial institution, and does not make credit decisions or issue loans. This website solely collects information from consumers and transmits it to lenders and third-party providers who may offer loan products that match the consumer’s needs. For consumers who do not qualify for a personal loan, alternative lenders and providers may be recommended.
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