Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends a press conference on China’s foreign policy and external relations on the sidelines of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 7, 2025. [Photo by Lun Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]
China will host a Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit this autumn in the northern city of Tianjin, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Friday.
He made the announcement at a press conference held on the sidelines of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress.
Wang said leaders will get together at the Tianjin summit to reflect on the SCO’s accomplishments, plan the future, and build consensus for cooperation.
“It will help the SCO embark on a new journey from China and make the organization a more close-knit community with a shared future,” he added.
Noting that this year is SCO’s “China Year,” Wang said that China, as the rotating president of SCO, is putting together more than 100 events in political, security, economic, and people-to-people fields this year under the theme of “Upholding the Shanghai Spirit: SCO on the Move.”
“The SCO was born in China and named after Shanghai. This means something special to us. We are very pleased to welcome it home,” Wang said, pledging that China will take real actions to carry forward the Shanghai Spirit and promote the SCO development.
Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said on Friday that China remains confident in Europe and believes that it can be a trustworthy partner, adding that the two sides can solve pending issues properly.
Wang made the remarks at a press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing session of the national legislature.
Noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, Wang said in the half-century-long relationship, the most valuable asset is mutual respect, the most powerful impetus is mutual benefit, the greatest unifying consensus is multilateralism, and the most accurate characterization is partnership.
Wang said that in the past five decades, China-EU trade has expanded from 2.4 billion U.S. dollars to 780 billion U.S. dollars. Investment has increased from almost zero to close to 260 billion U.S. dollars. China-Europe Railway Express has run more than 100,000 cargo trips and become a golden passage connecting Asia and Europe.
“Fifty years on, China and the EU jointly make up over one-third of the world economy, and the cooperation between the two has a greater strategic value and global influence,” Wang said, adding that a healthy and stable relationship will lift up both sides and make for a brighter world.
“The two sides have the capacity and wisdom to properly resolve pending issues through friendly consultation and jointly usher in another promising 50 years,” added Wang.
On March 3, US President Donald Trump paused all US military aid to Ukraine. This move was apparently triggered by a heated exchange a few days earlier between Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office.
In response, European Union leaders have now committed to rearm Europe by mobilising €800 billion (about A$1.4 trillion) in defence spending.
26 of the EU leaders (excluding Hungary) signed an agreement that peace for Ukraine must be accompanied by “robust and credible” security guarantees.
They agreed there can be no negotiations on Ukraine without Ukraine’s participation. It was also agreed the EU will continue to provide regular military and non-military support to Ukraine.
This jump in defence spending is unprecedented for the EU, with 2024 spending hitting a previous record high of €326 billion (A$558 billion).
At the same time, the United Kingdom has committed to the biggest increase in defence spending since the Cold War.
The EU’s united front will create strong defences and deter a direct attack on EU nations.
However, for Ukraine, it will not lead to a military victory in its war with Russia. While Europe has stepped up funding, this is not sufficient for Ukraine to defeat Russian forces currently occupying about 20% of the country.
For Ukraine, the withdrawal of US support will severely strain their ability to keep fighting. Ukraine will likely need to find a way to freeze the conflict this year. This may mean a temporary truce that does not formally cede Ukrainian territory to Russia.
A Trumpian worldview
The vastly different approaches of the US under Trump and the EU point to a deeper ideological divide.
While the Trump administration has acted more quickly and assertively in foreign affairs than many expected, its approach is not surprising.
Since Trump won the US presidential election in November last year, Europe and Ukraine have known that a shift in US policy would be on the cards.
Trump’s approach to Ukraine is not only about economic concerns and withdrawing US military aid. It is about a deeper, more significant clash of worldviews.
Trump (and, it appears, his core support base) hold a “great power politics” approach to world affairs.
This approach assumes we live in a competitive world where countries are motivated to maximise gains and dominate. Outcomes can be achieved through punishments or rewards.
Countries with greater military or economic strength “count” more. They are expected to impose their will on weaker countries. This viewpoint underpinned much of the colonial activity of the 19th and 20th centuries.
This worldview expects conflict – and it expects stronger countries to “win”.
Consistent with Trump’s outlook, Russia is a regional power that has the “right” to control smaller countries in its neighbourhood.
Trump’s approach to Ukraine is not an anomaly. Nor is it a temporary and spontaneous measure to grab the global spotlight.
Trump’s worldview leads to the logical and consistent conclusion that Russia will seek to control countries within its sphere of influence.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine represented an attempt to impose its will on a militarily weaker country that it considered to be in its rightful domain of control.
The EU alternative
Contrary to this view, the EU is founded on the premise that countries can work together for mutual gains through collaboration and consensus. This approach underpins the operation of what are called the Bretton Woods Institutions created in the aftermath of World War II.
This worldview expects collaboration rather than conflict. Mutually beneficial and cooperative solutions are found through dialogue and negotiation.
According to this perspective, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is about a conflict between the values of a liberal democracy and those of an oppressive authoritarian regime.
Zelensky has himself consistently framed the conflict as being about a clash of values: freedom and democracy versus authoritarianism and control.
A mix of both?
Since Trump’s second inauguration, European leaders have presented a united front, motivated by facing a world where US military backing cannot be guaranteed.
However, there is internal division within European countries. Recent years has seen a sharp rise in anti-EU sentiment within EU member states. The UK’s exit from the EU is an example of this phenomenon.
EU leaders previously followed a path of cooperation with Russia, with limited success. Following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, France and Germany helped mediate the Minsk Agreements. These agreements, signed in 2014 and 2015, were designed to prevent further incursions by Russian-backed groups into Ukrainian sovereign territory.
This did not prevent Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
In an emerging new world order, leadership might require going beyond the seeming contradiction of a focus on military strength or cooperation. Leaders may need to integrate both.
Jessica Genauer 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.
The APS Data, Digital, and Cyber Workforce Plan 2025-30 sets out how we will build a capable, sustainable, and future-ready workforce. The Workforce Plan provides a coordinated approach to attract, develop, and retain the talent we need to navigate the complexities of a modern digital government.
Source: US State of California Department of Justice
Files Lawsuit Against Federal Government to Stop Mass Firing of Probationary Employees
OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today filed a lawsuit challenging numerous federal agencies for conducting an illegal mass firing of federal probationary employees. In today’s lawsuit, 20 attorneys general argue that the Trump Administration’s Office of Personnel Management’s directive to agencies to terminate probationary employees en masse to reduce the size of the federal workforce exceeds any statutory authority granted by Congress. The lawsuit seeks to immediately halt further firings and reinstate unlawfully terminated federal employees while litigation proceeds.
“The Trump Administration’s sweeping mass firing of probationary federal employees is simply unlawful,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Not only is the administration breaking the law, while they claim these actions are necessary to ‘curb waste and inefficiency,’ the reality is that abrupt and indiscriminate terminations will lead to increased operation disruptions, higher rehiring costs, and long-term financial burdens on taxpayers. This reckless directive has inflicted chaos and harmed federal workers who are key contributors to our economy and provide critical services that affect the everyday lives of Californians, from offering support for veterans and farmers, to protection of our cherished national parks and lands. I won’t stand idly by as the President attempts yet another unlawful power grab. I am proud to file this lawsuit with my fellow attorneys general across the nation to reinstate unlawfully terminated federal employees and halt further firings.”
Nationally, there are more than 5.1 million federal workers. Nearly all federal employees serve a one-or two-year probationary period, and more than 200,000 are on probationary status across the federal government. In California, numerous federal employees serve in critical roles across key agencies including the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Agriculture, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Forest Service, among others.
The abrupt, pretextual termination of federal employees is not only unlawful but also disrupts essential government services and has far reaching economic effects. Specifically, in California, federal employees heavily contribute to our economy by paying state income taxes and generating substantial local revenue. This unlawful reduction in workforce has already caused a 149% increase in state unemployment benefit claims by federal workers and will inevitably impact small businesses through decreased consumer spending and decline in demand. This callous decision not only fuels broader economic uncertainty but directly contradicts yet another of the President’s empty promises to “immediately bring prices down, starting on day one” of his presidency.
In the complaint, the attorneys general allege that the Trump Administration’s failure to comply with Reduction in Force (RIF) procedures was arbitrary and capricious, not in accordance with law, and in violation of the federal Administrative Procedures Act. These critical protections ensure that workers and impacted communities receive advance notice of mass layoffs to blunt the disruptions they cause for the affected personnel and their communities and also ensure that personnel such as military veterans are given preference in retaining their jobs.
When a RIF results in a layoff of 50 or more employees, the agency must generally give at least 60 days’ advance notice to state governments, so they can provide vital “rapid response” information, resources, and services to affected workers. The federal agencies named in the lawsuit failed to provide any advance notice to California, causing significant expense and burden on the state as it scrambles to respond to the sudden mass layoffs of its residents. In the month of February 2025, there was a 149% uptick in unemployment insurance claims filed by individuals recently terminated from federal service.
The attorneys general are seeking declaratory relief, a temporary restraining order to pause further mass firings, and preliminary and permanent injunctive relief that would reinstate unlawfully terminated federal employees and enjoin further terminations that do not follow required legal procedures.
Attorney General Bonta is joined by the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawai‛i, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia in filing this lawsuit.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
World news story
Workshop held to equip prosecutors combat corruption and money laundering
A 3-day workshop on enhancing use of financial intelligence tools in equipping prosecutors for combating corruption and money laundering concluded successfully in Honiara last month.
Group photo of the participants with Deputy High Commissioner Emma Davis.
The workshop aimed to address specific, demand-driven needs of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Solomon Islands by providing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical mentoring.
Supported by the UK government, the workshop aimed to address the specific, demand-driven needs of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Solomon Islands by providing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on mentoring.
It focused on enhancing the use of financial intelligence tools to better equip prosecutors in their efforts to combat corruption and money laundering.
British Deputy High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and Nauru, Emma Davis opened the workshop on Monday 24 February saying:
As prosecutors you are key and must be professional and competent and for corruption cases this is essential. Prosecutors often come under closer scrutiny, and it is important that you operate with integrity, fairness, be accountable for your actions and have an open mind.
The challenge is immense. Corruption and money laundering are not just financial crimes; they are threats to stability, economic development, and public trust. Those who engage in these illicit activities seek to exploit vulnerabilities, obscure illicit gains, and undermine justice. As prosecutors, your role is pivotal in ensuring that these crimes are detected, investigated, and prosecuted effectively.
Workshop outcomes include knowledge sharing, exchange of experiences, sharing of best practices based on the knowledge products developed under the previous phases of the Pacific Anti-Corruption project, and adopting innovative approaches to tackling corruption among Pacific integrity institutions.
Capacity-building was among the workshop outcomes in terms of strengthening the technical and operational capabilities of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Solomon Islands to be able to effectively and efficiently prioritise and prosecute corruption and money laundering cases.
Partnerships were also fostered because of the workshop, enhancing regional collaboration and solidarity among key integrity institutions including financial intelligence units and prosecutorial agencies.
Staff of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Solomon Islands including resource personnel from the Central Bank of Solomon Islands Financial Intelligence Unit and UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji took part in the three-day workshop.
The Anti-Corruption Project is a UNDP initiative funded by the government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and seeks to strengthen whole-of-society commitment to addressing corruption through increased support from officials, communities and civil society for tackling corruption and by strengthening national policy frameworks, institutions, processes and capacities to prevent and address the effects of corruption across multiple sectors.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends a press conference on China’s foreign policy and external relations on the sidelines of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 7, 2025. [Photo by Lun Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]
The Global South should strengthen themselves, stand together in unity, and strive for development, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Friday.
“The hallmark of our era is the prominent, growing strength of the Global South,” Wang told a press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing session of the national legislature.
Accounting over 40 percent of global GDP and contributing as high as 80 percent of global growth, the Global South is a key force for maintaining world peace, driving world development, and improving global governance, according to Wang.
“The Global South holds the key to bringing stability to the world and making it a better place,” Wang said.
Noting that Indonesia became a full member of BRICS at the beginning of the year, and nine partner countries have joined the BRICS family, Wang said BRICS is emerging as a backbone of cooperation and an engine of growth in the Global South.
This year, China will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, Brazil the BRICS summit, and South Africa the G20 summit. “We should speak in one voice to the world, safeguard our common interests, and steadily increase our representation and voice in global governance,” he said.
“We should keep development as a central item of international agenda, build up the momentum, enhance our capacity, and advance hand in hand toward modernization,” Wang said.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends a press conference on China’s foreign policy and external relations on the sidelines of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 7, 2025. [Photo by Lun Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]
China will provide certainty to this uncertain world, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Friday.
“We are living in a changing and turbulent world, where certainty is becoming a scarce resource,” Wang told a press conference on the sidelines of the ongoing session of the national legislature.
“China’s diplomacy will stand firm on the right side of history and on the side of human progress. We will provide certainty to this uncertain world,” he said.
Wang said China will be a just and righteous force for world peace and stability, a progressive force for international fairness and justice, and a constructive force for common development of the world.
The country will uphold true multilateralism and safeguard the multilateral free trade system, the senior diplomat said.
“We will continue to expand high-standard opening up, and share the vast opportunities of Chinese modernization with all countries,” Wang said.
Editor’s note: The 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s national legislature, opened its third session on Wednesday morning at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, with a government work report submitted for deliberation. This infographic highlights the key objectives and strategic directions outlined in the report, offering a clear snapshot of the nation’s policy priorities for 2025.
Released by: The Premier, Minister for Emergency Services
A $15 million Community Recovery Support Fund, jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Governments, is now available to NSW councils and their communities following the impacts of the Cyclone Alfred weather event.
Activated councils will have up to $1 million in funding made available once impacts are known. This will provide proactive support for communities to undertake essential immediate clean up and restoration activities for important community assets such as pre-schools, senior citizen centres, libraries and community halls.
Support has been made available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The NSW Government is coordinating a multi-agency response to the cyclone, which has been forecast to significantly impact Northern NSW and Southern Queensland.
The currently weather modelling suggests that these 15 NSW Local Government Areas (LGAs) will sustain the most immediate impact of the cyclone,
The Commonwealth Government is working closely with both the New South Wales and Queensland Governments to ensure appropriate support is provided to impacted communities over the coming days.
Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:
“Northern NSW residents, and their neighbours to the north, are on high alert watching Tropical Cyclone Alfred approach.
“We are providing assistance now, but also have this future support on standby, ready to roll should recovery and cleanup work be needed in the immediate aftermath.
“Having this support ready to go means, if needed, essential work can begin and people’s lives can begin to return to normal as soon as possible.”
Quotes attributable Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister:
“It’s a challenging time for communities in the Northern Rivers, who are experiencing the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
“Having grown up in the Northern Rivers, I know these communities well. I am acutely aware of how worrying this event will be for local people.
“I’ve been incredibly grateful for the work of the local mayors, Councils and community leaders, supporting their communities.
“We are activating this assistance quickly to ensure councils are supported in their work.
“We seek to be good partners to Premier Minns and his government, through the immediate event and into the recovery”.
Quotes attributable to Premier Chris Minns:
“This is a pre-emptive step to help local councils quickly respond to this disaster.
“Councils are helping their communities prepare for the onslaught, and this will help them in the aftermath.
“This is just one early part of the support for the regions that get impacted by this disaster.”
Quotes attributable to New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib:
“The NSW Government with the support of the Commonwealth is continuing to roll out support for the Northern NSW communities facing the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
“This funding will be directed to councils in the local communities who need it most, with many of them still recovering after the devastating 2022 floods.
“The NSW Government is committed to providing ongoing support to the communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred in the days and weeks ahead.”
Topics: Labor reform of the National Insurance Disability Scheme.
DR GEORGE TALEPOROS, HOST: Minister Rishworth, welcome to the show.
AMANDA RISHWORTH, MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES: Thank you for having me. It’s great to be with you.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: It’s so good to have you on. You are now the Minister for NDIS, and that’s on top of your role as Minister for Social Services. That’s a lot – a lot for one person. How’s it going for you?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: It’s going really well. There’s a saying, give a busy person a job because you know they’ll get it done. But look, it’s really well. I think there’s a really lovely synergy between of course the work I was doing as Minister for Social Services under Australia’s Disability Strategy and some of the reform we’ve been doing in the Disability Employment Services, for example, to have that alongside the National Disability Insurance Scheme, because of course we need to be – in addition to making the NDIS the best it can be, in addition we need to make sure our communities, and Australia, is more inclusive of people with disability to ensure that people can be part of community. So, I have really enjoyed – I’ve had a good relationship with a lot of people within the disability community. So, by taking on the National Disability Insurance Scheme, it really adds to that work that we’re able to do to make Australia a more inclusive place.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: Absolutely, that’s so important that we’re heading in that direction. Now let’s talk about Support Needs Assessments. This is a major change that’s coming for NDIS participants, and I understand that it’s going to commence in September of this year. There’s a lot of apprehension and concern about what this means for our community. Can you walk us through what these assessments might look like?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: I really want to reassure participants that the new Needs Assessment work, we’ll be really taking a whole person approach, which I think is really important, and ensure that their support needs as a whole person are properly assessed, rather than focus just on functional capacity. So, I think as a principle that’s a really important principle, and look at how people can be best supported. I think in terms of the rollout, I think I need to be clear and reassure people here, it’s not expected that in September everyone will go to the new planning framework. It is expected that this planning framework will be rolled out over five years. So, I just wanted to reassure people this isn’t a big change that’s coming in right away, but we are working, and the NDIA’s working, on what some of the tool settings will look like, and then we’ll be working with states and territories, along with the disability community, about putting the rules in place.
But I need to be really clear, a lot of people have raised concerns with me around the equity and fairness of decision making, and issues around transparency as well. What the new planning framework will be able to do it is really support planners in their decision making, while making sure that an individual’s goals and requirements are taken into consideration. So, this is a big bit of work, but we are working very constructively across the board. And I really do need to say that this is about looking at what support people need in a really clear-eyed way and supporting them with that. But in terms of rolling out, it is over a five-year period, and of course we’ll continue, as these things are rolled out, to refine the process as well.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: People are saying to me that they’re concerned about having their fund being reduced after having an assessment. What would you say to participants who are a bit concerned?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: This is really about making sure people’s support needs are met, and that there is transparency and equity in decision making, which is also really important. So, this is really taking a whole of person approach, which is really important as part of it. So, I’d like to reassure people that we are looking at how we can make this process better for people, and make sure that it’s strength-based, but importantly that their supports needs across the whole of person are appropriately assessed. And of course, if there’s other supports that are already out there available for people, that they will be connected up with those supports as well. A great example of that is our new Disability Employment Service, which we have revamped to put the needs of people with disability at the centre, incentivise providers to provide quality.
If a participant’s goal is to get employment, then we want to connect those participants up with our new revamped Disability Employment Service which is there to meet the needs of people, not just tick off, for example, mutual obligation requirements. So, we are opening that up to volunteers, people that would like to access it. So that’s just one example of where a whole needs assessment – if employment is a goal for people, that we can connect them up with the other Disability Employment Service as well.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: Employment’s incredibly important, I agree with you. The NDIS review said that we need to codesign these Support Needs Assessments, do you think that we have enough time to do that between now and September?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: I do think the agency is very committed to codesign, as am I. I think there is work to be done in which we can all work together to do this work, but I would say that we’re not starting from scratch. The NDIS Review spoke to a lot of people about the direction of the NDIS, there were thousands of submissions, the NDIA continues to work – and as I said, when we start rolling out the new support framework there will be of course unintended consequences that we may become aware of, and that we will refine the process along the way. So, I think sometimes there’s circumstances where until you start implementing something you need to listen to feedback from people within the disability community how it’s practically working on the ground. I’m very much committed to, in the leadup to the new Supports Needs Assessment, but even after that’s been rolled out, to make sure that we’re always refining, improving, and making sure the process is as seamless as possible.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: Refining is incredibly important, and that’s relevant to Section 10 and the interim rule, I’ve had – a lot of people have found that interim rule quite inflexible, and we’re talking about Section 10, the in and the out lists. Are you aware of the frustration that people are having with the in and out lists, and will you be looking at fixing the problems with the more permanent rule?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: Obviously we responded with the Section 10 lists as a very clear guide to people about what is a NDIS support and what’s not, and I heard from a lot of people confusion about what people could spend their money on and what they couldn’t spend their money on. Of course, as we move to a more permanent list, which will be a new rule, of course we will continue to consult with people as we refine the permanent rule. But having guidance of what is a NDIS and isn’t a NDIS support doesn’t take away from the flexibility of how you use your money on NDIS supports.
The Section 10 list really is important guidance, which was already operational in many instances. A number of the things that are not deemed NDIS supports were already operationally not deemed, but there wasn’t the clear transparency about that. So, the new rule gives good transparency. But as we move to the permanent rule of course we will consider and continue to work with people where there may be some confusion or issues that need to be ironed out.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: That’s very reassuring, thank you for that. Let’s turn to the Royal Commission, that was a very important Commission for people with disability around violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation. The Commission found that group homes were often unsafe for people, and that we’ve seen more and more people being forced to live in group homes. So here at the Summer Foundation we really want people with disabilities to be able to build individualised living arrangements alternative from group homes, be part of the community and to choose who we live with and where we live. What is the government doing to enable more choice, so people aren’t forced to live in group homes?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: Thank you for that question and thank you for your advocacy on the importance of choice and control in terms of living arrangements. There’s quite a bit of work being done at the moment, particularly in light of the eight inclusive housing recommendations. Firstly, we have announced, and I’ll just get these details right, funding of close to $50 million over two years to support better design and consultation on reforms to housing and living supports. And there is a new Supported Independent Living pilot under the Quality Supports Program to look at better models of delivery support for people and looking at those pathways for people. So, there is work being done in how we design and implement new innovative models of living arrangements.
Of course, in addition, what’s really important as we do that work is making sure that there is improved safety in existing places where people are living together, and of course part of that is about the – we’re moving towards compulsory registration of group homes as part – through the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, and that’s I think really, really important, and making sure, for example, to have an NDIS practice standards, or a review of the NDIS practice standards for supported independent living. So, it is an area that the government is very focused on, and looking at what are the new models, how do we work on those new models to ensure people do have genuine choice and control.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: Thank you, I think that’s critical. I’d like to talk to your favourite topic, and that’s foundational supports. I know that you’ve been putting a lot of work into this, this has been a real focus for you. Can you give us a timeline of when these supports will be in place?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: We’re working with our state and territory colleagues on what these look like. What the review identified was that there were current gaps, and just as some examples, in terms of early intervention for children for example, before they may even meet the eligibility of the NDIS making sure that that type of support was available, family capacity building, individual capacity building as just some examples of supports that need to be available, that may or may not be funded as part of the NDIS, but need to be available outside the scheme. So, we are working with our states and territories on what that system might look like and build that system. We’re working with our state and territory colleagues very closely. It’s not expected that these supports would be all up and running at once.
As with many of these elements, it is being phased in, and we expect it to start being phased in at the second half of this year. So that’s what we’re aiming towards. But certainly, the idea is that we will be continuing to rollout this concept of foundational supports. As you may, or you would be aware, George, the old concept of tier two supports that would be available to everyone with disability, not just NDIS participants, was a key concept when the design of the NDIS had happened. What became really clear I think during the NDIS review is that many of what was envisaged are just not available. So, we’re working to build this new system. I need to be clear that these supports are envisaged to be there for everyone.
So, if we look at early intervention supports for children that might make up part of foundational supports, it’s not about children not getting access to the NDIS versus getting access to foundational supports, what it’s about is trying to provide support so early on that they don’t actually need the NDIS later down the track. So, this is the concept of foundational supports, and a really important I think misnomer that some people have suggested that these will exist – they will exist only for people that otherwise would’ve been on the NDIS. These are about putting supports in place to make sure there’s a solid foundation whether or not people are on the NDIS or not.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: Absolutely. We originally envisaged that the NDIS wouldn’t be the only lifeboat in the ocean, and here we are. So, I’m interested in whether you feel like these foundational supports will be in place in time so that people don’t fall through the cracks. So that something that you’re going to make sure doesn’t happen?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: There’s no plan to change access to people – the Support Needs Assessment is not reliant on foundational supports. Obviously, the Support Needs Assessment changes are looking at what someone’s support needs are and are not reliant on foundational support. So, I need to be really clear that a lot of the reforms that we are embarking on do not rely on having foundational supports, but we recognise that if we’re going to have a functioning Disability Support System, we need these foundational supports. If we look at the numbers there’s about 680,000 people that are NDIS participants, but 5.5 million Australians that identify as having a disability. Now some of those people are aged, some of them are in different categories, but the foundational support system is looking much more broadly than servicing NDIS participants. There are no changes we’re proposing to accessing the NDIS. We’ll keep working on those, but they’re an important complement to make sure that we’ve got a functioning disability ecosystem that works together.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: That’s what we need. Looking ahead there could be an election soon, if Labor does win the election what other reforms can we expect in the NDIS, and what will your key priorities be if you’re the next Minister?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: George, it wouldn’t be a surprise to say I hope that we do win, and I hope that I will get to be the Minister because I am really passionate about this work. I think there’s a couple of reforms that are on the agenda. Of course, there are reforms around how we build quality supports and quality services, and making sure we have the right safeguarding in place for people with disability. So, for me, whether it’s been in the Disability Employment Services, I was stunned that quality was not a – while it was a KPI, it wasn’t something that services were measured on. So, I think that people have a pretty varied experience when it comes to quality service provision. And so, I would like to see a focus on quality and safeguarding, and I think that’s really critical, and looking at how the NDIS Safeguards and Quality Commission can play an even more important role.
So, for me that is an absolute focus. It is building these foundational supports and making sure that we continue to invest, so that will be critically important. We will have setup our NDIS Reform Advisory Committee that will be doing a lot of work and working with the government. I very much look forward to working with them. We’ll be standing up our Evidence Advisory Committee. Really important to make sure that people with disability are getting the most – the best evidence supports available. That is really critical, particularly in the areas that may be contestable, that we get good evidence of what’s available there. And standing up that committee to make sure it has lived experience on it is really, really critical.
There’s work to be done in pricing as well. Making sure that we are pricing – that prices for services reflects quality is a key interest of mine, and making sure, once again, that quality piece, that people with disability are getting the best quality services. And ultimately, I think making sure that people with disability are absolutely at the centre of the NDIS. I think what became really clear to me before Minister Shorten stepped into the role. Under the previous government, the NDIS had become a system that had been built around people with disability, not with and for people with disability. And so, for me I want to bring that focus back, but also make sure that we’re maintaining the social licence that we need for an excellent, world class National Disability Insurance Scheme. They’re some of the areas I’m very interested in focusing on, along with, of course, the housing challenge that we’ve got in front of us.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: Natalie Wade [Associate Commissioner, NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission] was before the Senate yesterday, and to see her as a woman with a disability in that role was fantastic, and the work that she did with the taskforce. I’m really excited about the self-directed registration category.
AMANDA RISHWORTH: That piece of work was absolutely excellent work by Natalie Wade, and that is something I’m certainly eager to have a really good look at and look at how we progress it.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: Finally, Minister, before we wrap up, we have a lot of NDIS participants and families and also providers that listen to this podcast. Is there anything that you’d like to say to them directly?
AMANDA RISHWORTH: I would like to say that it is not lost on me that the NDIS has changed lives, and I think it’s important, out there some of the media commentary can be quite negative, but I know as Minister how lifechanging the NDIS is, and I am very keen to work across the board with people with disability, service providers, to make sure that we have got the NDIS the best it can be. It does need to be sustainable, but of course it does need to put people with disability at the centre of it, and I look forward to working with all of you to make that happen.
GEORGE TALEPOROS: Minister, thank you so much for coming on the show, and all the best.
AMANDA RISHWORTH: Thank you very much. Have a great day.
The 2025 Global Digital Economy Conference (GDEC)’s International Cooperation Forum series was held in Barcelona, Spain, on March 4.
GDEC’s International Cooperation Forum series held in Barcelona, Spain, on March 4. [photo provided to China.org.cn]
Themed “Integration, Innovation, Win-Win: Co-creating a New Blueprint for the China-Europe Digital Economy,” the Digital Economy Cooperation Forum was hosted by the GDEC Organizing Committee, and organized by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology (BMBEIT).
The event attracted more than 150 government representatives, corporate executives, industry association leaders from China, Spain and other European countries, and more than 60 overseas companies and institutions participated in it.
During the forum, the organizer held more than 20 government-enterprise matchmaking events, and the parties had in-depth exchanges on cutting-edge issues in the digital economy and reached a number of cooperation intentions.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. The forum, with the digital economy as the link, has effectively promoted China-EU digital friendly exchanges and practical cooperation.
In the Barcelona forum, Meng Yuhong, consul general of the Chinese Consulate General in Barcelona, said that China is willing to share development opportunities with the world and advocate inclusive economic globalization.
Facing the opportunities and challenges brought by digitalization, the international community should strengthen dialogue and exchanges, deepen pragmatic cooperation, and work together to build a more fair, reasonable, open, inclusive, secure, stable and vibrant cyberspace, Meng added.
Jiang Guangzhi, the BMBEIT chief, delivered an opening speech in the form of digital human. In his address, Jiang said that the capital city of China, as a pioneer in the global digital economy, actively implements the national digital economy development strategy, and Barcelona, as the core hub of the European digital economy, has obvious advantages in science and technology industry clusters. The two cities have broad prospects for cooperation in the field of digital economy.
Mario Rubert, director of Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, said in his speech that the Barcelona City Government regards China as a strategic priority. Nearly 20 years ago, the local government was very forward-looking and became the first Spanish public institution to establish a Chinese commissioner, laying a solid foundation for the long-term friendly cooperation between the two sides.
Joan Romero, executive director of ACCIÓ, an agency of the Government of Catalonia to promote business competitiveness through innovation and internationalization, said China is a leading country in science and technology and a benchmark, expressing the hope that the Catalonia region can strengthen cooperation with China in the economic, technological and social fields.
The Barcelona forum was the first time that GDEC had set up a branch venue in Europe. It was held in the Spanish city at the same time as Mobile World Congress. It was the first time that the two major international conferences joined hands, creating a new paradigm for cooperation.
On the sidelines of the forum, BMBEIT also held a business and investment promotion activity called “Night of Beijing” in the Spanish city.
Relevant persons in charge of the BMBEIT promoted Beijing’s leading digital technology solutions in key digital economy industries such as autonomous driving, smart logistics, smart home, digital healthcare, and value-added telecommunications, combining core technologies, application scenarios, international promotion, and effectiveness cases.
Those participating in the activity think that it promoted the precise connection between industry-leading enterprises and leading technologies between China and the West, and between China and the EU, and it also provided innovative ideas and practical samples for the development of the global digital economy.
The GDEC has been successfully held for four sessions since 2021. It is committed to promoting more comprehensive international cooperation in the digital economy industry and promoting the friendly and sustainable development of the global digital ecology. The 2025 GDEC will be held in Beijing in July.
China’s local government debt risks have been effectively mitigated, Minister of Finance Lan Fo’an told a press conference on Thursday.
As of Wednesday, local governments had issued bonds totaling 2.96 trillion yuan (about 413 billion U.S. dollars) aimed at replacing existing debt, said the minister.
The bonds issued last year for the replacement of 2 trillion yuan of local government debt saw an average reduction in interest rates by over 2.5 percentage points, said Lan.
It is estimated that these bonds will reduce interest payments by over 200 billion yuan over five years, significantly easing the funding pressures and interest costs for local governments, Lan noted.
A mature, resilient and stable China-Russia relationship will not be swayed by any turn of events, let alone be subject to interference by any third party, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Friday.
The relationship is “a constant in a turbulent world rather than a variable in geopolitical games,” Wang told a press conference held on the sidelines of the ongoing session of the national legislature.
No matter how the international landscape evolves, the historical logic of China-Russia friendship will not change and its internal driving force will not diminish, he said.
The two countries have found a path of “non-alliance, non-confrontation and not targeting any third party” in developing their relations, Wang said, adding that it is a pioneering effort in forging a new model of major-country relations, and has set a fine example for relations between neighboring countries.
“High fences and small yards” cannot suppress the spirit of innovation, and decoupling and supply chains disruption will only lead to self-isolation, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Friday.
Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the annual session of the country’s national legislature, Wang said science and technology should not be used to put up an iron curtain, but should be the wealth that benefits all and is shared by all.
“Where there is blockade, there is breakthrough; where there is suppression, there is innovation,” said Wang in responding to a question on U.S. tech suppression on China.
Noting that unjustified external suppression on China, be it in space science or chip making, has never stopped, Wang said China’s path to becoming a science and technology powerhouse is growing wider.
Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs
Jodie Oddy, host: Well, Hayesy, you know, I love myself a good politician. Am I right?
Andrew Hayes, host: Yes, you do.
Oddy: And one of the best in the business is Senator Penny Wong, and she is joining us ahead of International Women’s Day tomorrow. Good morning, Penny, and I’m really, really sorry that you had to listen while you were on hold to our fight about battle of the bangers. And…
Foreign Minister: Well, I learned a lot, mate. I did!
Oddy: Will you vote for me next week? For my song?
Foreign Minister: I’ll try and remember, I’ll try and remember to do that.
Hayes: I dare say, if Penny votes, it’s probably worth two or three, isn’t it?
Oddy: Yes, yes, very true.
Foreign Minister: Oh, I don’t know about that.
Oddy: Penny, you’ve just come off an International Women’s Day breakfast – 3000 people – what an event.
Foreign Minister: Oh, look, it’s amazing. You know, I feel so, so proud of Adelaide every time I host this event. We sell out within minutes. Three thousand people come to this event. It’s the largest International Women’s Day breakfast in Australia. So, it just tells you something about how Adelaide comes together. We’re very good at remembering events and anniversaries. And I’m so grateful we get so many women and men, and particularly so many school kids. It’s just wonderful.
Oddy: And Penny, I sit back and watch in your industry, and we’ve had a really historic moment in Adelaide radio this morning where we got all four breakfast hosts from all the, what are normally competing stations on together, in a show of unification? What is it like amongst the female politicians in Canberra? Is that, is there a sense of unity and that we’ve got to support each other, or are there bitter feuds going on everywhere?
Foreign Minister: Probably a bit of both, I think, like most things. Certainly, you know within, I can say within our government, and within the Labor Party, we’ve got 51% women now. We’re the first majority woman government in Australia’s history. And it’s a pretty extraordinary experience to be part of. I’ve been around a while, got a lot greyer over many years, as you know. But the difference now in our caucus where we’ve got 51% women, not just the focus on women’s issues, things like putting new contraceptives on the PBS for the first time in 30 years, but more generally, on so many issues and it’s a really good sense of camaraderie. So, I’m very privileged to be part of it.
Oddy: International relations are high on your agenda. Do you still encounter misogyny from blokes across the globe? Or have you seen an improvement in that space?
Foreign Minister: Look, I think you know, I always say to people, progress is not linear. Do you know what I mean? So you often it’s sort of whether it’s in your personal life, or it’s in your work life. You know, it’s often three steps forward, one or two steps back. But the thing is, you’ve got to, we’ve all got to keep working. You know, one of the things I spoke about today is, you’ve got to work hard for change, and you have to work hard to make sure change isn’t unwound. And you know that should be our approach in politics and in life, and when it comes to equality.
Oddy: I’m going to take that as a yes then…
Foreign Minister: And winning, winning, next week, there you go.
Oddy: Absolutely. Alright, Penny, I look forward to you voting for my battle of the banger song.
Thank you so much for joining us this morning on the eve of International Women’s Day. I know how busy you are. So, we really appreciate it. Thank you so much.
Foreign Minister: I really appreciate it. Thanks for having me, cheers.
Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
03.06.25
Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) today questioned the President’s nominee to be Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Martin Makary, during his appearance before the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. Murkowski raised the FDA’s handling of the Vaccine Advisory Committee, the handling of clinical trials for rare diseases, and funding for state and local governments to conduct food safety inspections.
Full Transcript:
Senator Murkowski: Doctor, welcome, it was a good conversation that we had, and I appreciated that. I thank you for the encourage to read that provision in your book, it was great airplane reading for me.
Dr. Makary: Thank you, Senator.
Senator Murkowski: I also want to thank you for the assurance you gave to Senator Collins regarding the Vaccine Advisory Committee, and ensuring there would be meetings going forward. I think for several of us who had I thought good substantive conversations with Secretary Kennedy, we had received assurances about things like the vaccination committee. So, we’re making sure again that important input goes forward is important to many of us, so I appreciate that.
I wanted to talk to you this morning about an issue we discussed in my office, and that is with regards to ALS. The FDA’s accelerated approval pathway has really been important, and I think very promising for treatments for ALS and some other rare diseases. You have advocated for using common sense alongside science in regulatory decisions. So, very briefly, how do we define common sense here as it applies to the regulatory decisions of the FDA. How do we make sure that ALS patients who are looking at a very, very limited time frame, they can’t wait for the traditional approval process, there are some emerging measures using digital technologies, is this in your realm of common sense? Give me a little bit of insight here on how you would like to proceed on these approval pathways.
Dr. Makary. Thank you, Senator. I very much enjoyed our time together, and talking through a bunch of these issues. We have to customize the regulatory process to the condition that we’re trying to be able to offer hope, so, if a condition affects 19 people in the world as a partial triplication chromosome 15 disorder does, or a disease that affects 52 kids in the world, we cannot require two randomized control trials. We have to customize the regulatory process to what we’re trying to do if our goal is to try to provide safe and effective therapies. So, I do believe firmly in that approach, and I do think we can use some commons sense to ask some big questions we’ve never asked before at the FDA. Why does it take 10 years for a drug to get approved? Why does a college student who suffers from chronic abdominal pain for years, and we have no idea what’s going on, and they go to Italy for a summer and they are suddenly cured of their abdominal pain? Why does a peanut allergy medication that’s been safe with data for decades get approved in Europe before the United States when nearly 10% of our population has a food allergy? So, I do think there’s a lot of areas where we can ask, does a drug need to be prescription, when it could be over-the-counter, why are requiring continuous glucose monitors to have a Doctor’s prescription when it’s good for people to use these monitors and learn about what they’re eating. We don’t just want to limit continuous glucose monitoring to people with diabetes, we want to prevent diabetes when 30% of our nation’s children has diabetes or pre-diabetes or some form of early insulin resistance. Why are we holding these tools to help people, empower them about their health, until after they’re sick, same with continuous blood pressure monitoring.
Senator Murkowski: Well, as you point out, why do we wait. We want to make sure that there is a level of safety, that’s the job there through the FDA. But, again, being able to accelerate these in ways that are meaningful, and to your point, that actually fit with the population that you’re speaking to. So know that I’m going to be pushing you on this, as well as many other advocates out there.
Dr. Makary: Thank you.
Senator Murkowski: I want to quickly ask you about food safety inspections. State and local governments conduct about 60% of food processing facility inspections, 90% of produce safety inspections, 100% of retail food inspections. What has happened is we have seen in the Biden Administration, FDA planning to cut funding for state and local food safety programs. This impacts us in the state of Alaska when it comes to our seafood industry, and in other areas. So, I’m looking for a commitment from you that under the Trump Administration, the FDA is going to maintain funding for these contracts with state and local governments. They’ve proven that it’s more cost effective, more efficient, and it also is what Congress has asked for. So I’d like to know that you’re going to be supportive in that regard to state and local governments.
Dr. Makary: I’m happy to look at that with you, Senator.
Senator Murkowski: Very good. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-Mich.) reintroduced two bipartisan bills to prevent foreign governments, including adversaries like China and Russia, from shadow influencing U.S. policy. The legislation would help close loopholes that foreign governments exploit to conceal their roles in lobbying efforts.
“Sunlight is the best disinfectant, and the public has a right to know if a foreign government is trying to sway American policy. Our bipartisan bills would close a loophole that allows individuals to conceal their lobbying efforts and ensure that all foreign actors are disclosed to the American people. The Senate passed our bipartisan legislation last Congress, and I’m going to continue to work diligently with my colleagues to get these vital reforms to the president’s desk,” Grassley said.
“The American people deserve complete transparency about who is trying to influence our political process. These bipartisan bills will help ensure foreign actors can’t exploit loopholes to hide their activities while attempting to shape policy in the United States. It’s a commonsense step to protect our national security and ensure our government is working in the best interests of the American people,” Peters said.
Lobbying Disclosure Improvement Act
Congress created the Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) in 1995 to delineate between those lobbying on behalf of foreign governments versus those lobbying for foreign private entities. The LDA exempts foreign private entity lobbyists from the Foreign Agents Registration Act’s (FARA) more burdensome restrictions. However, the Justice Department currently has no way of knowing which foreign lobbyists claim this exemption.
The Lobbying Disclosure Improvement Act would make public which foreign lobbyists receive the LDA exemption, ensuring no foreign government actors can fraudulently and secretly represent themselves as non-government actors. This would help the Justice Department narrow the pool of registrants they are examining for potential FARA violations, without imposing any meaningful additional burden on non-government registrants representing foreign private entities.
Additional cosponsors include Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.).
Disclosing Foreign Influence in Lobbying Act
Law enforcement agencies have identified instances in which foreign adversaries exploit an additional loophole in the Lobbying Disclosure Act by using closely connected private organizations and businesses to push their government interests.
TheDisclosing Foreign Influence in Lobbying Act makes clear that lobbying organizations must disclose when foreign governments and political parties participate in their lobbying efforts, regardless of any financial contribution to the lobbying effort
Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawai‘i), along with U.S. Representatives Ed Case (D-Hawai‘i) and Jill Tokuda (D-Hawai‘i), introduced legislation to protect more than 10,000 plant and animal species native to the Hawaiian Islands. The Hawai‘i Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act would fund conservation and recovery projects addressing invasive species, the ecological consequences of climate change, native species’ habitats, and population recovery. Schatz met with The Nature Conservancy, Hawai‘i today to discuss the bill and other priorities.
“Native species foster a healthy ecosystem, with cleaner air, purer water, and a more resilient environment,” said Senator Schatz. “By funding new conservation measures and recovery projects, including for Native Hawaiian organizations and local non-profits, our bill will help save our native species for years to come.”
The 10,000 species native to Hawai‘i represent the highest degree of endemism in the world, but hundreds of these species are listed as endangered. The state’s unique biodiversity is in the midst of an extinction crisis, with more than half of native birds and more than 100 unique plant species already extinct.
The Hawai‘i Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act would:
Provide funding through cooperative agreements and grants to the State of Hawai‘i, local governments, Native Hawaiian organizations, non-profit organizations, businesses, and institutions of higher education to protect native species;
Support coordinated, evidence-based conservation and recovery projects addressing invasive species, the ecological consequences of climate change, native species’ habitats, and population recovery, as well as data collection and public outreach and education measures;
Require the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to coordinate with other federal and state agencies to develop annual funding priorities and criteria for ranking project proposals;
Require a 25 percent non-federal match for most projects;
Encourage applications for high impact, small dollar value projects, projects carried out by Native Hawaiian organizations, and projects promoting youth workforce readiness by waiving the non-federal match requirement for such projects; and
Authorize $30 million annually, subject to appropriations, to protect native species for ten years.
“Unique to our islands, Hawai‘i’s native species are critical to maintaining the health, balance, and biodiversity of our ecosystem,” said Senator Hirono. “Through initiatives such as funding conservation and recovery projects that address topics including invasive species, scientific research, and data collection, this legislation will help to preserve Hawai‘i’s ecosystems and safeguard the environment for future generations.”
“In Hawai‘i, invasives have caused significant ecological damage, threatening the survival of our unique plant and animal species,” saidRepresentative Case. “Protecting Hawai‘i’s unique biodiversity is not just an environmental necessity, but a cultural imperative that embraces our Native Hawaiian heritage. Unfortunately, these native species often lack the defenses to compete with or resist the pressures of invasive plants and animals, which can rapidly alter ecosystems and displace local species and requires intervention to prevent and reverse.”
“From ?ohi?a to kiwikiu, Hawai?i is home to some of the most stunning native biodiversity in the world, and we need to work collaboratively to protect and preserve our unique and fragile ecosystem,” said Representative Tokuda. “I am proud to support the Hawai‘i Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act to provide much-needed support for coordinated conservation projects across our state, protect our cultural assets, and ensure our native species can thrive for generations to come.”
The bill is endorsed by The Nature Conservancy, Hawai‘i Conservation Council, Friends of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, National Tropical Botanical Garden, American Bird Conservancy, and National Wildlife Federation.
“Our community in Hawai‘i continues to rise to the challenge protecting our most vulnerable species. I want to thank Senator Schatz, Congressman Case and the rest of our Hawai‘i delegation for enabling the vision of our local communities to become a reality,” said Ulalia Woodside Lee, Executive Director of The Nature Conservancy Hawai‘i and Palmyra. “If enacted, this bill would add much needed support to ensure we can protect our treasured biodiversity and help build capacity in our local communities to malama ‘aina.”
Senator Schatz met with representatives from TNC Hawai‘i and Palmyra to discuss the bill.
“This groundbreaking legislation, would ensure protections against invasive species and ensures the viability of Hawai‘i’s endemic species and ecosystems that supports them from extinction. These species are found nowhere else on our planet. If implemented, this legislation will be a win for Hawai‘i, the U.S., and the world in being at the helm of protecting endangered species from becoming extinct. This will also set a course of action to help reverse the current situation of Hawai‘i being the extinction species capitol of the world by eradicating invasive species, foster and the restore biodiversity and help to stabilize our climate. Additionally, this measure will help to protect food sources and the community from harmful invasive pests, as well as, increase employment opportunities. There is no time to lose; we urge Congress to swiftly pass the Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act,” said Jonee Peters, Executive Director for the Conservation Council for Hawai‘i.
“Hawai‘i is home to some of the most unique and threatened plants and animals found anywhere in the world. The Hawai‘i Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act would be a significant step toward addressing the many challenges of protecting and recovering these irreplaceable natural and cultural resources. Many of Hawai‘i’s exceptional native species are quite literally on the brink of extinction; we urge Congress to pass this Act as soon as possible,” said Debbie Anderson, President of the Friends of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.
“The National Tropical Botanical Garden strongly supports the proposed Hawai‘i Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act of 2025 because it aligns perfectly with NTBG’s mission to preserve and protect native plant species, restore ecosystems, and advance scientific research and education. By providing funding for community involvement and youth workforce training, the act would help ensure that future generations of conservationists and scientists are equipped to protect Hawai‘i’s fragile ecosystems. Supporting the Hawai‘i Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act of 2025 is not just beneficial for NTBG — it is essential for the future of Hawai‘i’s native ecosystems,” said Tami Rollins, Interim CEO of the National Tropical Botanical Garden.
“Birds such as the ‘I’iwi represent Hawai‘i’s extraordinary biodiversity. However, ‘I’iwi and countless other species are facing unprecedented challenges from threats like avian malaria. Thanks to Sen. Schatz for introducing the Hawai‘i Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act, which would address threats to native species by supporting community-led projects, ensuring native Hawaiian ecosystems are present for our keiki,” said Chris Farmer, Hawai‘i Program Director at American Bird Conservancy.
Source: Plant and Food New Zealand – Press Release/Statement:
Headline: Hope in turbulent times (PPF)
People | Planet | Food – Host Roger Robson-Williams speaks with sustainability experts Saskia Verraes and Martin Rich about the future they aspire to create through their work. They discuss the encouraging signs of progress in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the globe. Amid rising illiberalism, increasing geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and an unstable climate, this episode offers a chance to reflect on how we can cultivate a more prosperous future for everyone. It also celebrates some of the outstanding initiatives already in progress. This episode serves as an invitation to hope and take action. To explore our full catalogue of podcasts, visit our Scigest page: www.plantandfood.com/scigest.
Source: The White House
CREATING A STRATEGIC BITCOIN RESERVE AND DIGITAL ASSET STOCKPILE: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and a U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile, positioning the United States as a leader among nations in government digital asset strategy.
The Order creates a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve that will treat bitcoin as a reserve asset.
The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve will be capitalized with bitcoin owned by the Department of Treasury that was forfeited as part of criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings. Other agencies will evaluate their legal authority to transfer any bitcoin owned by those agencies to the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.
The United States will not sell bitcoin deposited into this Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, which will be maintained as a store of reserve assets.
The Secretaries of Treasury and Commerce are authorized to develop budget-neutral strategies for acquiring additional bitcoin, provided that those strategies impose no incremental costs on American taxpayers.
It also established a U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile, consisting of digital assets other than bitcoin owned by the Department of Treasury that was forfeited in criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings.
The government will not acquire additional assets for the U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile beyond those obtained through forfeiture proceedings.
The Secretary of the Treasury may determine strategies for responsible stewardship, including potential sales from the U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile.
Agencies must provide a full accounting of their digital asset holdings to the Secretary of the Treasury and the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets.
This Order ensures a strategic approach to managing digital assets under U.S. control.
ADDRESSING A CRYPTO MANAGEMENT GAP:
Bitcoin, the original cryptocurrency, is referred to as “digital gold” because of its scarcity and security, having never been hacked.
With a fixed supply of 21 million coins, there is a strategic advantage to being among the first nations to create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.
The United States currently holds a significant amount of bitcoin but has not maximized its strategic position as a unique store of value in the global financial system.
Premature sales of bitcoin have already cost U.S. taxpayers over $17 billion.
The Executive Order begins to resolve the current disjointed handling of cryptocurrencies seized through forfeiture by, and scattered across, various Federal agencies.
Currently, no clear policy exists for managing these assets, leading to a lack of accountability and inadequate exploration of options to centralize, secure, or maximize their value.
Taking affirmative steps to centralize ownership, control, and management of these assets within the Federal government will ensure proper oversight, accurate tracking, and a cohesive approach to managing the government’s cryptocurrency holdings.
This move harnesses the power of digital assets for national prosperity, rather than letting them languish in limbo.
DELIVERING ON PLEDGE TO MAKE AMERICA THE CRYPTO CAPITAL OF THE WORLD: President Trump is fulfilling his promise to position America as the global leader in cryptocurrency.
President Trump promised to make the United States the “crypto capital of the world,” emphasizing the need to embrace digital assets to drive economic growth and technological leadership.
In his first week in office, President Trump signed an Executive Order to promote United States leadership in digital assets such as cryptocurrency.
President Trump has consistently advocated for a forward-thinking approach to crypto, stating: “I am very positive and open minded to cryptocurrency companies, and all things related to this new and burgeoning industry. Our country must be the leader in the field.”
President Trump promised to create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and a Digital Assets Stockpile.
President Trump appointed a “crypto czar” and is hosting the first-ever crypto summit at the White House, just a few of the many ways this Administration is demonstrating its strong commitment to this digital asset.
Source: The White House
class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Background. Bitcoin is the original cryptocurrency. The Bitcoin protocol permanently caps the total supply of bitcoin (BTC) at 21 million coins, and has never been hacked. As a result of its scarcity and security, Bitcoin is often referred to as “digital gold”. Because there is a fixed supply of BTC, there is a strategic advantage to being among the first nations to create a strategic bitcoin reserve. The United States Government currently holds a significant amount of BTC, but has not implemented a policy to maximize BTC’s strategic position as a unique store of value in the global financial system. Just as it is in our country’s interest to thoughtfully manage national ownership and control of any other resource, our Nation must harness, not limit, the power of digital assets for our prosperity.
Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. It is further the policy of the United States to establish a United States Digital Asset Stockpile that can serve as a secure account for orderly and strategic management of the United States’ other digital asset holdings.
Sec. 3. Creation and Administration of the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and United States Digital Asset Stockpile. (a) The Secretary of the Treasury shall establish an office to administer and maintain control of custodial accounts collectively known as the “Strategic Bitcoin Reserve,” capitalized with all BTC held by the Department of the Treasury that was finally forfeited as part of criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings or in satisfaction of any civil money penalty imposed by any executive department or agency (agency) and that is not needed to satisfy requirements under 31 U.S.C. 9705 or released pursuant to subsection (d) of this section (Government BTC). Within 30 days of the date of this order, each agency shall review its authorities to transfer any Government BTC held by it to the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and shall submit a report reflecting the result of that review to the Secretary of the Treasury. Government BTC deposited into the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve shall not be sold and shall be maintained as reserve assets of the United States utilized to meet governmental objectives in accordance with applicable law. (b) The Secretary of the Treasury shall establish an office to administer and maintain control of custodial accounts collectively known as the “United States Digital Asset Stockpile,” capitalized with all digital assets owned by the Department of the Treasury, other than BTC, that were finally forfeited as part of criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings and that are not needed to satisfy requirements under 31 U.S.C. 9705 or released pursuant to subsection (d) of this section (Stockpile Assets). Within 30 days of the date of this order, each agency shall review its authorities to transfer any Stockpile Assets held by it to the United States Digital Asset Stockpile and shall submit a report reflecting the result of that review to the Secretary of the Treasury. The Secretary of the Treasury shall determine strategies for responsible stewardship of the United States Digital Asset Stockpile in accordance with applicable law. (c) The Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Commerce shall develop strategies for acquiring additional Government BTC provided that such strategies are budget neutral and do not impose incremental costs on United States taxpayers. However, the United States Government shall not acquire additional Stockpile Assets other than in connection with criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings or in satisfaction of any civil money penalty imposed by any agency without further executive or legislative action. (d) “Government Digital Assets” means all Government BTC and all Stockpile Assets. The head of each agency shall not sell or otherwise dispose of any Government Digital Assets, except in connection with the Secretary of the Treasury’s exercise of his lawful authority and responsible stewardship of the United States Digital Asset Stockpile pursuant to subsection (b) of this section, or pursuant to an order from a court of competent jurisdiction, as required by law, or in cases where the Attorney General or other relevant agency head determines that the Government Digital Assets (or the proceeds from the sale or disposition thereof) can and should: (i) be returned to identifiable and verifiable victims of crime; (ii) be used for law enforcement operations; (iii) be equitably shared with State and local law enforcement partners; or (iv) be released to satisfy requirements under 31 U.S.C. 9705, 28 U.S.C. 524(c), 18 U.S.C. 981, or 21 U.S.C. 881. (e) Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Treasury shall deliver an evaluation of the legal and investment considerations for establishing and managing the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and United States Digital Asset Stockpile going forward, including the accounts in which the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and United States Digital Asset Stockpile should be located and the need for any legislation to operationalize any aspect of this order or the proper management and administration of such accounts.
Sec. 4. Accounting. Within 30 days of the date of this order, the head of each agency shall provide the Secretary of the Treasury and the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets with a full accounting of all Government Digital Assets in such agency’s possession, including any information regarding the custodial accounts in which such Government Digital Assets are currently held that would be necessary to facilitate a transfer of the Government Digital Assets to the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve or the United States Digital Asset Stockpile. If such agency holds no Government Digital Assets, such agency shall confirm such fact to the Secretary of the Treasury and the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets within 30 days of the date of this order.
Sec. 5. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect: (i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or (ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals. (b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations. (c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
THE WHITE HOUSE, March 6, 2025
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins, John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Gary Peters (D–MI), John Fetterman (D-PA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) today introduced the Veterans Mental Health and Addiction Therapy Quality of Care Act, bipartisan legislation that would require an independent organization outside of the government to conduct a study to assess the quality of care veterans receive for mental and addiction health treatment from providers within and outside the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
“Our veterans made the honorable decision to serve our country, and we have a responsibility to ensure they receive the best possible health care during and after their service,” said Senator Collins. “Too many veterans face serious mental health struggles, including PTSD and addiction, yet they often encounter barriers to getting the care they need. By reviewing the quality of mental health and addiction treatment available to them—both within and outside the VA—this bipartisan legislation would help improve access to higher-quality care, so that fewer veterans are left without the support they deserve.”
The Department of Veterans Affairs is home to the nation’s largest integrated health care system that provides comprehensive health services to U.S. military veterans who are enrolled. However, recent estimates indicate that as many as 70% of VA-eligible veterans received their care from external providers. Given the high rate of veteran suicide due to mental and addiction health conditions, a study is needed to better understand if current practices provide our veterans with the best mental and addiction quality of care.
Specifically, The Veterans Mental Health and Addiction Therapy Quality of Care Act would require an independent study to:
Analyze the results of comparable instances of addiction and mental health care between inside and outside providers using objective criteria such as symptom scores and suicide risk;
Ascertain to what extent outside providers are using evidence-based practices in the treatment of addiction and mental health issues;
Identify potential gaps in coordination between internal and external providers in responding to individuals seeking addiction or mental health care;
Evaluate the availability of coordinated care for veterans who have separate or related conditions which may be impacting their mental health;
Assess providers’ military cultural competency;
Gauge the ease and flexibility of sharing medical records with a veteran’s health care team;
Consider to what extent providers are conducting outcome monitoring throughout a veteran’s treatment to track progress or lack thereof; and
Measure overall patient satisfaction.
The legislation is supported by the Disabled American Veterans Association, the American Psychological Association, and the Veteran Health Care Policy Initiative.
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
Ranking Members Padilla, Morelle Continue to Press Trump Administration on Firings of Election Security Workers, Pause of Critical Election Security Efforts
Lawmakers’ letter follows lack of response to letter about the firings of CISA employees who worked on election security
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, and U.S. Representative Joe Morelle (N.Y.-25), Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, continued pressing senior officials at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for answers on the status of their election-related work. This comes after not receiving a response to their letter last month on the firings of CISA employees who previously worked on election security, including misinformation and disinformation issues.
“As Ranking Members of the House and Senate Committees with jurisdiction over federal elections, we have a right to understand the changes occurring at CISA given its critical election security mission,” wrote the lawmakers. “Failure to respond to these questions is deeply disturbing given so many high-ranking administration officials’ refusals to accept the outcome of legitimate elections and involvement in spreading election-related mis- and disinformation.”
Since their original letter, more CISA employees have been put on administrative leave, and CISA has paused election security efforts as they rush through an internal assessment behind closed doors without consulting Congress or state and local election officials. Meanwhile, employees of President Trump and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), including a 19-year-old staffer tied to interactions with cybercriminals, have infiltrated CISA’s systems.
“Election infrastructure is critical infrastructure. Changes at CISA could have dramatic impacts on future elections — the cornerstone of our democracy,” continued the lawmakers. “Without a reasonable, transparent process that consults with Congress and Chief Election Officials on a bipartisan basis, we are alarmed that political leadership at DHS and DOGE is directing CISA to undercut the security of our elections, making us more vulnerable to malign foreign actors and risking the safety of election officials.”
The lawmakers also condemned the permanent termination without notice of federal funds for the Election Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EI-ISAC). EI-ISAC is an essential resource for threat monitoring and coordination between state officials on election security matters.
Additionally, the lawmakers highlighted a February 21, 2025, letter from the bipartisan National Association of Secretaries of State to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and pushed CISA to consult with election officials while conducting their assessment. The Secretaries’ letter underscores the need for CISA’s services to ensure the successful administration of elections.
Last week, Padilla and Morelle expressed serious concerns about the dangerous implications for elections following President Trump’s executive order purporting to bring independent regulatory agencies under total control of the White House. Padilla previously denounced the illegal firing of FEC Chair Weintraub and led 10 Democratic Senators to demand President Trump rescind this decision.
Full text of the letter is available here and below:
Dear Ms. Bean and Ms. Harrington:
We are concerned by the lack of timely written response to our February 13, 2025, letter on the status of the election-related work and the treatment of employees at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Since the sending of that letter, several additional, disturbing reports have come to light, including (1) more CISA employees have been put on administrative leave, (2) election security efforts have been paused during a secretive review that is being rushed through without consultation with Congress or state and local election officials, and (3) employees of the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), including at least one who is a known cybersecurity risk, are reworking CISA without any transparency.
We expect a thorough and substantive response to both letters, and a briefing on the results of the assessment following its anticipated conclusion on March 6, 2025, with a discussion of any anticipated changes to the agency prior to any being finalized. While we recognize that CISA and DOGE is declining to communicate with Congress on individual personnel decisions, Congress has a right to understand the overall personnel numbers and structural changes occurring at CISA. We reiterate our request for information on the numbers of CISA employees whose work, in whole or in part, covered election-related matters that have either been placed on administrative leave or fired. Our committees have received information that the number of election security officials put on leave is greater than initially reported and public reports indicate that 130 CISA employees have been fired already.
We understand that CISA launched a review of its election security work soon after receiving our February 13 letter. While we understand the assessment of the agency’s work remains ongoing—with a reported March 6 deadline—we urge your continued commitment to maintaining elections as a key component of CISA’s core mission. Additionally, we call your attention to the February 21, 2025, letter from the bipartisan National Association of Secretaries of State and urge you to consult with key Congressional committees and Chief Election Officials before the conclusion of the assessment. In their letter, the Secretaries noted the importance of CISA’s services, including cybersecurity services, physical security assessments, planning resources, and briefings on the foreign threats facing our election systems at the state and local level. While we encourage CISA to ensure these services remain intact, decisions to upend these programs after a three-week review without seriously considering the input of Members of Congress or the individuals running elections in the states would be irresponsible and shortsighted.
We are also gravely concerned about the permanent termination of federal funds for the Election Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EI-ISAC). The EI-ISAC played a critical role in threat monitoring and coordination between state officials, and the lack of notice prior to the termination of federal funding has left states unable to accept the services of the Center for Internet Security. We recommend restoring federal funding for the EI-ISAC as soon as possible. If CISA or DOGE refuse to do so, they owe Congress a substantive explanation for this decision and details of how CISA will be providing these services to states in the absence of the EI-ISAC.
Furthermore, we are shocked by public reporting that an inexperienced DOGE staffer with a history of engagement with hacking groups, and who was fired for leaking sensitive information from a previous job, is now working at CISA. We demand an immediate answer as to how many DOGE employees are currently housed at CISA, as well as the level of access they have been given to sensitive information. Senior Advisor to the President Elon Musk has publicly committed the Administration and DOGE to the highest levels of transparency, and we expect a full accounting for DOGE’s activities at an agency with a mission as sensitive as CISA’s.
As Ranking Members of the House and Senate Committees with jurisdiction over federal elections, we have a right to understand the changes occurring at CISA given its critical election security mission. Failure to respond to these questions is deeply disturbing given so many high-ranking administration officials’ refusals to accept the outcome of legitimate elections and involvement in spreading election-related mis- and disinformation. Election infrastructure is critical infrastructure. Changes at CISA could have dramatic impacts on future elections – the cornerstone of our democracy. Without a reasonable, transparent process that consults with Congress and Chief Election Officials on a bipartisan basis, we are alarmed that political leadership at DHS and DOGE is directing CISA to undercut the security of our elections, making us more vulnerable to malign foreign actors and risking the safety of election officials.
Thank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to your prompt response, no later than Monday, March 17.
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
Padilla, Klobuchar Lead Charge Urging USDA to Reinstate Hispanic-Serving Institution Fellowship Program
Senators to USDA: “The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), chair of the Senate Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) Caucus, and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, led 11 Democratic Senators in calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to immediately reinstate its HSI E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellowship Program. The program, suspended by the Trump Administration, supports the nation’s agricultural workforce while uplifting professionals and students of all backgrounds at HSIs, including non-Latino students.
USDA established the nonpartisan EKDLG Fellowship Program in 1998, designing the program to strengthen educational partnerships between faculty, staff, and administrators from HSIs and USDA. These partnerships support professional development, workforce development, and exposure opportunities for HSIs nationwide, offering critical insight and understanding of the federal government.
“USDA’s partnership with HSIs and Hispanic Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities (HSACUs) plays a vital role in establishing a collaborative relationship and creating a nationwide network of educators working with USDA to help grow the next generation of the American agricultural workforce,” wrote the Senators.
“The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide,” continued the Senators. “We urge you to immediately reinstate the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program, similar to Department’s reinstatement of the 1890 National Scholars Program, and to collaborate with Congress to ensure its long-term stability.”
Programs like the USDA EKDLG Fellowship Program are built to help students reach their full potential and reinforce America’s agricultural workforce pipeline. The 2024 EKDLG Program included eight fellowships in Texas, six in Arizona, five in California, four in New York, two in Illinois, one in New Mexico, one in Colorado, one in New Jersey, one in Florida, one in Connecticut, and one in Washington.
Hispanic-Serving Institutions are not-for-profit institutions of higher learning with 25 percent or higher total undergraduate Hispanic or Latino full-time students. There are 600 HSIs in the United States that enroll over 5.2 million Hispanic students, two-thirds of all Hispanic undergraduates, and 32.2 percent of total Pell Grant recipients — empowering and improving communities. California is home to 172 HSIs and 45 Emerging HSIs.
In addition to Senators Padilla and Klobuchar, the letter is also signed by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
The letter is endorsed by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) and UnidosUS.
As chair of the Senate HSI Caucus, Senator Padilla has been a strong advocate for expanding educational opportunities for Latino students. Last year, Padilla passed a bipartisan resolution to designate National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week. In 2023, Padilla introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Hispanic Educational Resources and Empowerment (HERE) Act, which aims to provide Hispanic and Latino students with the necessary tools and resources to lessen the higher education achievement gap.
Previously, Padilla and Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) passed a bipartisan resolution expressing support to close the gap in STEM jobs among Latino students and young professionals entering the workforce. Padilla also unveiled a bipartisan resolution in 2022 recognizing the 30th anniversary of the Hispanic National Internship Program (HNIP), a seminal program of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities known for promoting Latino excellence and creating greater career development opportunities for Latino and Hispanic students across the country.
Full text of the letter is available here and below:
Dear Secretary Rollins,
We write to express our significant concerns about the suspension of the USDA Hispanic-Serving (HSI) E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellowship Program and to ask that you immediately reinstate it.
The EKDLG Fellowship Program was established in 1998 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the program has had consistent support from every presidential administration since its establishment. The program strengthens educational partnerships between faculty, staff, and administrators from HSIs and USDA.
The EKDLG Fellowship Program is non-partisan and supports increasing the professional development, workforce development, and exposure opportunities for faculty, staff, and students nationwide. USDA’s partnership with HSIs and Hispanic Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities (HSACUs) plays a vital role in establishing a collaborative relationship and creating a nationwide network of educators working with USDA to help grow the next generation of the American agricultural workforce. These fellowships are open to faculty, staff, and administrators of all backgrounds that are employed at HSIs or Hispanic-Serving School Districts and students of all backgrounds are eligible to participate.
HSIs are economic engines and shape our nation’s agricultural workforce. In 2022, HSIs enrolled 5.2 million students, including 66% of all Hispanic undergraduate students and over 31% of all college students in non-profit postsecondary institutions in the country. Programs like the EKDLG Fellowship Program equip educators with the tools to help students reach their full potential and support the nation’s agricultural workforce pipeline. For example, the list of 2024 EKDLG participants shows the program’s nationwide impact:
1. University of Houston, Sugar Land, Texas
2. New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico
3. The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
4. Arizona Western College, Yuma, Arizona
5. Coastal Bend College, Beeville, Texas
6. Adams State University, Alamosa, Colorado
7. California State University, Chico, Chico, California
8. Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey
9. Texas A&M University, Kingsville, Texas
10. Mesa Community College, Mesa, Arizona
11. Hartnell College, Salinas, California
12. Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
13. City Colleges of Chicago, Harold Washington College, Chicago, Illinois
14. Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
15. Maricopa Community Colleges, Tempe, Arizona
16. University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
17. Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove, Illinois
18. Northern Arizona University, Yuma, Arizona
19. University of California, Santa Barbara, California
20. Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, California
21. University of Texas, San Antonio, Texas
22. CUNY New York City College of Technology, Brooklyn, New York
23. CUNY Hunter College, New York, New York
24. Florida International University, Miami, Florida
25. California State University, Fresno, California
26. Arizona State University, Mesa, Arizona
27. Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
28. The University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, Texas
29. Mt. Adams School District #209, White Swan, Washington
30. The Urban Assembly New York Harbor School, New York, New York
31. John Bowne High School, Flushing, New York
The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide.
We urge you to immediately reinstate the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program, similar to Department’s reinstatement of the 1890 National Scholars Program, and to collaborate with Congress to ensure its long-term stability.
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
Padilla, Schiff Urge Interior Department to Halt Further Workforce Cuts at Bureau of Reclamation
Senators to DOI: “Rather than decimating the agency and its dedicated staff, Interior should work with Congress to bolster Reclamation’s workforce to meet the growing demands of extreme weather, population growth, and increasing pressures on our water supply systems.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.), members of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, pushed the Department of the Interior to ensure there are no further federal workforce cuts to the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation). The letter comes after the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued a memo last week requiring agency heads to submit guidance on large-scale reductions in force and their reorganization plans by March 15. Due to the chaos of the Trump Administration’s reckless cuts, Reclamation is already set to lose about 100 employees in California, which is 10 percent of its regional staff.
Despite its tradition of operating as a lean agency, Reclamation supports and operates many critical California water management projects and delivers water to more than 31 million Americans and 10 million acres of farmland. This farmland managed by Reclamation produces over 60 percent of the nation’s vegetables and more than 25 percent of its fruits and nuts.
“Any federal dollars ‘saved’ from a reduction in staffing will ultimately cost taxpayers more through disrupted supply chains, increased burdens on state taxpayers, and emergency response due to the instability created by these reductions,” wrote the Senators. “Aging dams, reservoirs, and conveyance systems require continuous monitoring and maintenance, and without adequate staffing, the risk of infrastructure failures increases. Such failures could have catastrophic consequences, including flooding, water contamination, and severe disruptions to California’s agricultural and urban economies.”
“We strongly urge you to reconsider the termination of these critical Reclamation employees and halt further workforce reductions at Reclamation,” continued the Senators. “Rather than decimating the agency and its dedicated staff, Interior should work with Congress to bolster Reclamation’s workforce to meet the growing demands of extreme weather, population growth, and increasing pressures on our water supply systems.”
Padilla and Schiff highlighted three essential water projects that depend on the expertise of Reclamation staff for managing water in the West, where water systems are extremely complex and are closely coordinated with state, tribal, and local authorities:
The Klamath Project provides critical water supplies to farms, wildlife refuges, and tribal communities in Oregon and California. Reclamation staff are essential to balancing competing demands for tribal cultural protection, agricultural water deliveries, and ecological health.
The Central Valley Project (CVP) operates in tandem with the State Water Project (SWP) to supply water to farms, businesses, and residents. The two systems are deeply interconnected, and CVP staff is essential to SWP operations and water deliveries. The CVP is a federal responsibility, and maintaining full Reclamation staffing is essential to protect California’s water supply and agricultural economy.
The Lower Colorado Regional Office operates Hoover Dam — one of the federal government’s most critical infrastructure assets. Its staff provide real-time data and operational oversight that is vital for Colorado River management, and for ensuring reliable water deliveries to three Western states, millions of people, and some of the nation’s most productive farmland.
The Senators also highlighted concerns from many California water contractors who have warned Interior Secretary Burgum against eliminating essential Reclamation staff with the knowledge necessary to safely and reliably deliver water throughout California. Many of these contractors have emphasized that Reclamation is a service organization, not funded by taxpayers but rather water and power customers.
Last week, Senators Padilla and Schiff urged the Department of the Interior to immediately stop its freeze of Inflation Reduction Act funding for the Lower Colorado River System Conservation and Efficiency Program, which is managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.
Full text of the letter is available here and below:
Dear Secretary Burgum, Acting Commissioner Palumbo, Director Stock, and Director Johnson:
We write to express serious concerns regarding (i) alleged staff terminations at the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) in California and (ii) the recent Office of Personnel Management (OPM) memo calling for significant federal workforce reductions. On March 3, 2025, it was reported that Reclamation is set to lose about 100 employees in California, which is 10 percent of its regional staff. In the strongest terms, we ask that you provide further information and justification about these reductions and ensure that any additional cuts at the Department of the Interior (Interior) do not further impact Reclamation, an already lean agency that delivers water to more than 31 million Americans and 10 million acres of farmland that produce 60% of the nation’s vegetables and 25% of its fruits and nuts.
Reclamation staff are indispensable to managing water in the West, where water systems are highly technical, complex, and closely coordinated with state, tribal, and local authorities. For example:
The Klamath Project provides critical water supplies to farms, wildlife refuges, and tribal communities in Oregon and California. Reclamation staff are essential to balancing competing demands for Tribal cultural protection, agricultural water deliveries, and ecological health.
The Central Valley Project (CVP) operates in tandem with the State Water Project (SWP) to supply water to farms, businesses, and residents. The two systems are deeply interconnected, making CVP staffing essential to SWP operations and water deliveries. As the CVP is a federal responsibility, Interior must ensure it remains fully staffed to protect California’s water supply and agricultural economy.
The Lower Colorado Regional Office operates Hoover Dam – one of the federal government’s most critical infrastructure assets. Its staff provide real-time data and operational oversight essential for managing the Colorado River, ensuring reliable water deliveries to three western states, millions of people, and some of the nation’s most productive farmland.
As a large coalition of California federal water contractors wrote to you in the attached letter, “In our experience, the vast majority of staff throughout Reclamation’s California-Great Basin region is comprised of dedicated, talented federal employees, possessing specialized skills, knowledge, and the relevant and specific experience necessary to safely and efficiently manage, operate and maintain one of the largest, most complex water projects in the world… This knowledge is absolutely essential to assuring the continued safe and reliable delivery of water throughout the state.” The staffing cuts previously made by and deferred resignations conducted through this Administration have already led to the loss of many experienced employees. As the water contractors point out, additional losses will threaten public health and safety and negatively impact the water delivery system for the nation’s largest state economy.
Any federal dollars “saved” from a reduction in staffing will ultimately cost taxpayers more through disrupted supply chains, increased burdens on state taxpayers, and emergency response due to the instability created by these reductions. Aging dams, reservoirs, and conveyance systems require continuous monitoring and maintenance, and without adequate staffing, the risk of infrastructure failures increases. Such failures could have catastrophic consequences, including flooding, water contamination, and severe disruptions to California’s agricultural and urban economies.
In light of these challenges, please answer the following questions by March 13, 2025.
1. What analyses, if any, have been completed to determine the budgetary and broader economic impacts of losing Reclamation employees that have already been or will be lost?
2. How does Interior plan to make up for the current and anticipated loss of specialized knowledge about California’s water systems, including the CVP, given these terminations?
3. How will Interior and Reclamation continue to manage, operate, and maintain California’s aging infrastructure in light of these staffing losses?
4. According to OPM’s FedScope, there were 5,739 employees at Reclamation as of September 2024. How many Reclamation employees are there as of March 6, 2025?
5. What are the job functions and employment locations of Reclamation employees in California who have been terminated and accepted deferred resignation?
6. Please describe in detail, the degree to which Mr. Elon Musk and/or representatives from the “Department of Government Efficiency” or “United States DOGE Service” have been involved in any part of these firings within Interior and Reclamation.
We strongly urge you to reconsider the termination of these critical Reclamation employees and halt further workforce reductions at Reclamation. Rather than decimating the agency and its dedicated staff, Interior should work with Congress to bolster Reclamation’s workforce to meet the growing demands of extreme weather, population growth, and increasing pressures on our water supply systems.
We welcome the opportunity to further discuss these concerns and would be happy to host you for a visit at any time to give you a tour of California’s vital water infrastructure and introduce you to the outstanding Reclamation staff in California.
It’s important to know that when you link your myID to your not-for-profit (NFP) in Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM), it will not link your personal records with the records of your NFP. Your personal tax records are separate from those of the NFP.
Each person within your NFP who needs to access Online services for business will need to set up their own individual myID. This is because myID is unique to each person and shouldn’t be shared. Linking your myID to the NFP in RAM ensures only you and authorised users can transact for your NFP in Online services for business.
Why do you need a myID to lodge online?
Your myID is a secure way to prove who you are when logging into government online services.
Non-charitable NFPs with an active Australian business number (ABN) need to lodge an NFP self-review return to notify eligibility to self-assess as income tax exempt. This can be completed through Online services for business.
Before you can link your myID and lodge online, you need to check your organisation’s details are up to date. This includes the organisation’s associates, as they will be the principal authorityExternal Link for the NFP. If the associate isn’t up to date, notify us of changes by completing a Change of details form to request an update. You can also advise us of new authorised contacts, postal and email address details as well.
Once you’ve set-up access to Online services for business, you can use it to lodge the NFP self-review return. The first return is due to be lodged for the 2023–24 income year, by 31 March 2025.
Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
This Week GSA Listed The Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building In Albany And 400+ Other Fed Properties As ‘Designated For Disposal,’ But Mysteriously Removed List On That Same Day – Creating Confusion & Concern Building Could Close And Services Could Get Cut For Capital Region
O’Brien Building Hosts Offices For Social Security, IRS, Military Processing And Its Presence Has Been Essential To Providing Federal Services To Albany Area For Over 50 Years
Schumer: Capital Region Families, Seniors Can’t Have Fed Building Close And Services Cut Off, We Need Answers & Clarity ASAP
After the Trump administration placed the Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building on a list of federal properties “designated for disposal” and abruptly removed that list, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today demanded answers from the General Services Administration (GSA) and assurances that the building will remain open and services uninterrupted for Capital Region residents. Schumer said the building is critical to the Capital Region and that seniors, workers, and families that rely on services in the building need clarity on future plans for this vital hub for services.
“This week, Albany’s O’Brien Federal Building was placed on GSA’s list of federal properties for sale and within a day, that list disappeared, creating confusion, concern, and chaos. Now many are worried this could mean the building will close and services, including a Social Security office, will be interrupted for thousands of Capital Region families, workers and seniors. GSA won’t say what its plans are and ‘DOGE’ is being dodgey about whether this Albany building is next on their chaotic chopping block. This building is where Capital Region families and seniors get help with Social Security checks, where military recruits get processed, where people go with questions on the status of their tax returns, and thousands have gotten help with other vital federal services for 50 years,” said Senator Schumer. “My constituents in the Capital Region deserve to know what caused this chaos and who is making these decisions. They deserve certainty on the future of this building and the vital services it hosts. I am all for cutting waste and making government more efficient, but selling a property for nickels only to have taxpayers pay significantly more to lease and maintain access to these services just isn’t smart business. It’s penny wise and pound foolish, and a giveaway to private landlords. Capital Region families and federal workers have little clarity on what the future holds and we need answers now.”
Albany’s Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building is home to 20 federal government agencies including the Social Security Administration office, a day care for children of federal employees, a U.S. Military Entrance Processing Station, the IRS, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, and the senator’s Capital Region office. Schumer said that since it was listed earlier this week for potential disposal, his office has been inundated with inquiries on the future of the building, whether it will be closed or sold and whether services will be cut off. Schumer said it is imperative the building remain open and services are maintained, and is now demanding answers on what happened.
Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “The Leo O’Brien Building is a hub of vital federal government services, and our residents must have access to these services and the ability to interact with federal agencies — particularly in one of the most underserved census tracts in the entire region. I commend Senator Schumer for demanding answers of this administration and for calling out yet another example of the mismanagement and chaos carried out by DOGE.”
This would not be the first instance of offices that provide vital federal services in NY being potentially shut down by DOGE. Social Security offices in the Hudson Valley have already been listed on the DOGE “wall of receipts” which could impact services for thousands who rely on them to help with payments.
Schumer’s letter to General Services Administration Deputy Administrator and Acting Administrator Stephen Ehikian can be found below:
Dear Acting Administrator Ehikian,
I write with deep concern over the Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building in Albany N.Y. appearing on a list of buildings potentially being listed for sale or closure amid cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). On Tuesday, the Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building and over 400 other federal properties were placed on a list of “non-core” properties that the General Services Administration (GSA) said are “designated for disposal.” Later that same day, GSA abruptly removed this list, creating chaos and confusion for the people who work in these buildings. The people of the Capital Region and I need answers on your plans for this building, assurances that it will remain open and that the critical services it hosts will continue uninterrupted for the thousands of New Yorkers who rely on them.
The Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building is home to 20 federal government agencies including the Social Security Administration office, a day care for children of federal employees, a U.S. Military Entrance Processing Station, and my Capital Region office. For 50 years, it has been where Capital Region residents interact with the federal government for essential services like assistance with Social Security checks and the IRS or seeking justice in U.S. Bankruptcy Court. This is where new military recruits from the Capital Region are processed for service. Seeing this building on a list of properties “designated for disposal” created panic for Albany’s federal workers, who are already seeing the federal workforce slashed by DOGE. The list’s sudden removal within hours of first being posted has raised even more questions and caused even more chaos and uncertainty.
Your plans and process for determining the future of the building remain unclear. The GSA is listing the building as a “non-core” property despite the essential services the federal agencies within the building provide on a daily basis. The public has yet to see any cost-benefit studies to justify a potential major sale like this, and many have raised serious concerns that a measure like this would end up costing taxpayers significantly more by forcing federal offices to be leased by a private landlord. To add to the concerns, removing this list with no communication about if or when the list will be re-posted or updated underscores the complete disorganization and inefficiency of a process that potentially impacts jobs and vital services for my constituents. The hard-working federal workers in this building and the communities who rely on their services in New York’s Capital Region deserve clarity and certainty.
In an effort to cut through the confusion, I seek answers on the following:
What factors led to the Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building’s placement on this list of properties “designated for disposal”?
Who is making the decisions on this lease, and what involvement does DOGE have in that process?
Why was this list taken down so quickly? If so, will the list be updated and what criteria are being used for determining whether a property remains on an updated list?
Why did you not follow the standard processes of seeking public input about the loss of a federal building? Please provide any and all cost-benefit analysis studies that have been done relevant to the decision-making process for this property.
If the building is sold, is there an alternative plan for the federal offices located in the building? What assurances can be given that existing services in the building will not be disrupted due to a sale of this property?
This building has been integral to the federal government’s work in the Capital Region for 50 years, and its abrupt closure and sale would disrupt essential services my constituents rely on. We should not be haphazardly selling America’s real estate portfolio and causing chaos and uncertainty for the American people. This process is everything but efficient. I ask for your prompt answers to my questions above and urge you to maintain the Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building in Albany so federal workers can continue to support and serve the Capital Region and all of New York State.
Sincerely,
Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), U.S. Senator Angus King questioned three witnesses about the adverse impact of the Republican-led House and Senate not passing annual federal spending bills on military capability and production. During the hearing, Senator King spoke with David Berteau, the President and Chief Executive Office of the Professional Services Council; Dr. Christine Michienzi, the former Senior Technology Advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment; and Dr. John McGinn, the Executive Director of the Greg and Camille Baroni Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University’s Costello College of Business.
The exchange comes as Congress has struggled to negotiate a federal spending law that would pass with bipartisan support and be approved by the White House. Now, with less than 10 days to avert a government shutdown, Congressional appropriators are pursuing a continuing resolution that would temporarily fund the government at the previous year’s levels — therefore not adding new policies or investments that the military needs.
“Could we all agree that continuing resolutions absolutely are not part of the solution to this problem,” asked Senator King.
“Franklin Roosevelt did not face a single continuing resolution in the entire buildup to World War II and the entire execution thereof,” replied Berteau.
“I concur,” said Dr. McGinn.
“I concur,” echoed Dr. Michienzi.
“All of you agree with that. That is one of the difficulties we are in now. It creates all kinds of downstream in the industrial base and preparation. Thank you for that. Let the record show, continuing resolutions are not the way to do business, particularly in the defense area,” said Senator King. “All of you have mentioned something very interesting which is allies are part of the solution. It concerns me that we are embarked on a course that is not encouraging to our allies, and in some cases poking our allies in the eye. Talk to me about the importance of allies in dealing with the production necessary for significant conflict whether it is Japan, U.K., Canada, or other countries.”
“Our allies are a key part of our industrial base. We have a number of agreements and collaborative programs. The largest fighter program in the world, the F-35, we have a dozen partner countries I believe,” responded Dr. McGinn.
“We cannot do this by ourselves, correct,” asked Senator King. “All of you are nodding, could you say yes? They don’t show up in the transcript.”
“Yes,” Berteau, Dr. Michienzi and Dr. McGinn agreed unanimously.
A member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Senator King is recognized as an authoritative voice on national security and foreign policy issues who has also been named a “fiscal hero” by government watchdogs for responsible spending. Senator King has previously urged the Department of Defense (DoD) to take advantage of private sector technologies or risk losing access to innovative defense technologies and encouraged the (DoD) to reevaluate its acquisition process of defense technologies.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has finalized the “R.O.C. 2025 Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) and Calculation Formulas”, confirming that the official rates remain unchanged from the initial draft, and continues to offer incentives for diverse renewable installations through tariff levels and various subsidies and supporting mechanisms to encourage further expansions. Compared to 2024, the FIT rate for rooftop solar PV installations ranging from 1kW to under 10kW remains the same as the second phase of 2024, while other categories have undergone slight reductions. Furthermore, a new capacity range of 1-100kW has been added for small hydropower to reflect cost differences based on scale. Meanwhile, all existing incentives and supporting mechanisms remain unchanged.
The key points of the officially announced 2025 Feed-in Tariffs (FIT) Rates for Renewable Energy (see details in the attachment) are as follows (same as draft)： 1. Solar PV: Two-phase rates are adopted. The FIT rate for the first phase (first half of the year) ranges from NT$ 3.5337 to NT$ 5.7055 per kWh, while the second phase (second half of the year) ranges from NT$ 3.5037 to NT$ 5.6279 per kWh.
2. Wind Power: Rates remain unchanged. The FIT rate for onshore wind farms with capacities under 30kW is NT$ 7.4110 per kWh, while onshore wind farms with capacities of 30kW and above are at NT$ 2.1286 per kWh. Offshore wind power maintains a FIT rate of NT$ 4.5085 per kWh.
3. Biomass Energy: Rates remain unchanged. The FIT rate for biogas (with anaerobic digestion facilities) is NT$ 7.0192 per kWh. The rate for the solid biofuels and domestic agricultural residues resources is NT$ 5.1407 per kWh, and NT$ 2.8066 per kWH for other biomass categories.
4. Waste to Energy: The FIT rates for energy generated from general and general industrial wastes category remain unchanged at NT$ 3.9482 per kWh.
5. Small Hydropower: The FIT rates for 1-100kW capacity category is NT$ 4.9548 per kWh. The rates for other capacity ranges (100kW-500kW, 500kW-2MW, and 2MW-20MW) remain unchanged at NT$ 4.8936 per kWh, NT$ 4.2285 per kWh, and NT$ 2.8599 per kWh respectively.
6. Geothermal Power: The FIT rates remain unchanged. Facilities with capacities under 2MW will have a FIT rate of NT$ 5.9459 per kWh, while those above 2MW will have a FIT rate of NT$ 5.1956 per kWh.
7. Marine Energy: The FIT rate remains at NT$ 7.3200 per kWh, the same as in 2024.
During the public consultation period, stakeholders expressed concerns over solar FIT reductions, refined capacity ranges for small hydropower, higher FIT rates, and more detailed categories for marine energy and creating floating offshore wind FIT category. However, after careful review based on the principles of FIT, the committee decided to uphold the original proposal while committing to ongoing evaluations for potential adjustments.
The MOEA emphasized that the 2025 FIT review process followed a fair, transparent, and rigorous procedure to ensure that the tariffs aligned with Taiwan’s development environment., The government remains committed to continuously evaluating FIT-related policies to build a solid foundation for Taiwan’s renewable energy development.
Spokesperson for Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs: Deputy Director-General, Chih-Wei Wu Phone: 02-2775-7750 Mobile: 0922-339-410 Email: cwwu@moeaea.gov.tw
Business Contact (Solar PV, Biomass Energy, Waste to Energy, Small Hydropower): Deputy Director, Shih-Wei Liao Phone: 02-2775-7620 Mobile: 0920-091-081 Email: swliau@moeaea.gov.tw