New Zealand’s Pacific connection with the United States is “more important than ever”, says Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters after rounding up the Hawai’i leg of his Pacific trip.
Peters said common strategic interests of the US and New Zealand were underlined while in the state.
“Our Pacific links with the United States are more important than ever,” Peters said.
“New Zealand’s partnership with the United States remains one of our most long standing and important, particularly when seen in the light of our joint interests in the Pacific and the evolving security environment.”
The Deputy Prime Minister has led a delegation made up of cross-party MPs, who are heading to Fiji for a brief overnight stop, before heading to Vanuatu.
Peters said the stop in Honolulu allowed for an exchange of ideas and the role New Zealand can play in working with regional partners in the region.
“We have long advocated for the importance of an active and engaged United States in the Indo-Pacific, and this time in Honolulu allowed us to continue to make that case.”
Approaching Trump ‘right way’ The delegation met with Hawai’i’s Governor Josh Green, who confirmed with him that New Zealand was approaching US President Donald Trump in the “right way”.
“The fact is, this is a massively Democrat state. But nevertheless, they deal with Washington very, very well, and privately, we have got an inside confirmation that our approach is right.
“Be very careful, these things are very important, words matter and be ultra-cautious. All those things were confirmed by the governor.”
Governor Green told reporters he had spent time with Trump and talked to the US administration all the time.
“I can’t guarantee that they will bend their policies, but I try to be very rational for the good of our state, in our region, and it seems to be so far working,” he said.
He said the US and New Zealand were close allies.
“So having these additional connections with the political leadership and people from the community and business leaders, it helps us, because as we move forward in somewhat uncertain times, having more friends helps.”
At the East-West Center in Honolulu, Peters said New Zealand and the United States had not always seen eye-to-eye and “US Presidents have not always been popular back home”.
“My view of the strategic partnership between New Zealand and the United States is this: we each have the right, indeed the imperative, to pursue our own foreign policies, driven by our own sense of national interest.”
The delegation also met the commander of US Indo-Pacific Command Admiral Samuel Paparo, the interim president of the East-West Center Dr James Scott, and Hawai’i-based representatives for Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Earlier this month, my family gathered to celebrate my niece’s christening marking the beginning of a new generation. As I was writing the card, I reflected on the importance of family and community, how they help shape lives and the enduring legacy they leave.
During the event, I spoke with the godmother who is expecting her third child about balancing work life and family responsibilities. I was incredibly encouraged by the empowered young woman, noting she is an incredible role model.
Role models are important in all facets of life. They include parents, mentors, coaches, teachers, leaders, academics, club members, professionals; the list is endless. What is true of all role models is their ability to influence behaviours and actions.
At the ATO, we talk about the model taxpayer and our vision for an Australia where every taxpayer meets their obligations because complying is easy, help is tailored, and deliberate non-compliance has consequences.
To support this vision, our Commissioner recently launched our organisational purpose ‘we collect tax so that government can deliver services for the Australian community.’
It’s within this context that we support the NFP sector and within which the sector must operate. In administering the law, we set compliance expectations and look for ways to reduce and minimise red tape. We expect all taxpayers to model good behaviour. For NFPs this means:
Checking that the associates and addresses of your NFP are current. If not, and they need to be updated, download and submit the Change of registration details form at ato.gov.au/NFPnotifyofchanges. If you haven’t updated your details in a while and you don’t know who your authorised contact is, we’ll accept the completed form from a newly appointed authorised contact if evidence such as minutes from the meeting or a letter from the NFP is also provided.
Undertaking a regular health check of your NFP at least annually. We recently published the NFP tax, super and registry responsibilities checklist. This good governance checklist helps NFPs stay on track with their tax, super and registry obligations. It’s good practice to run through this checklist at your regular board or committee meetings as a standing agenda item. Staying current with your tax and super affairs is part of your good governance framework and delivers transparency and accountability for your members.
Staying informed by subscribing to our monthly newsletter Not-for-profit news. It’s free to subscribeExternal Link and delivers timely information tailored especially for NFPs.
Reporting non-compliant behaviours that bring disrepute to the NFP sector. We welcome tip-offs. They help level the playing field for honest entities. It only takes a few minutes to make a tip-off, and you can remain anonymous. You can make a tip off by:
completing the tip-off form (the form is also available in the Help & support section in the ATO app)
phoning us on 1800 060 062.
Reaching out if you need assistance. To deliver on our vision, we provide the sector with expert advice through our web content as well as our dedicated phone service for NFPs and their representatives. You can call the team on 1300 130 248 Monday to Friday 8 m to 6 m AEST.
NFP Stewardship Group
Our NFP Stewardship Group is both a group of stewards and role models for the sector. Our group which was recently refreshed to include a First Nations organisation and a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) NFP, met on 25 March for the first meeting of 2025. The diversity of our members was reflected in the depth and richness of the conversation which is critical given it’s one of our key consultative forums. Membership is contingent on members providing an integrity declaration and meeting the requirements of the charter including participation and support for the administration of the law.
Members of our NFP Stewardship Group are role models in their communities and networks and we greatly value their time and constructive feedback especially where the law may not be operating as intended.
The key items at our March meeting focused on:
a technical discussion with respect to the Global Anti-Base Erosion Model Rules (GloBE Rules) for Australian NFPs
an overview of our compliance expectations and what we see in review and audit cases
an open discussion about emerging issues including anti-avoidance
a presentation on places of worship and CALD communities, and the support available to help them meet their tax, super and reporting obligations
an update on the NFP self-review return including the approach for those who haven’t lodged.
NFP self-review return
As of 31 March, the extended lodgment date, more than 27,000 NFPs had lodged their return, and the number is still rising as more lodgments come in.
The NFPs who have lodged are modelling good sector behaviours and will have their future returns pre-populated making it even easier to meet their reporting obligations in future years.
We’re extending our support for NFPs who haven’t lodged and we’re urging them to do so before 30 June to avoid a review. We’ve published a new What happens if you lodge the NFP self-review return late page on the ATO site to help self-assessing NFPs who are yet to lodge. The key points for NFPs who need to lodge are:
there is a legal requirement to lodge an annual self-review return for non-charitable NFPs with an active ABN
NFPs who haven’t lodged must lodge as soon as possible – you don’t need to request an extension
we have support for NFPs making genuine efforts to comply, noting that we’ve suspended penalties for late lodgment of the 2023–24 NFP self-review return as part of our transitional support arrangements
from July 2025 we’ll review NFPs who intentionally ignore their obligations.
NFPs can demonstrate they’re trying to do the right thing by:
lodging the return online or via our self-help phone service on 13 72 26, even if they are lodging late
engaging a registered tax agent to lodge on their behalf
Finally, we’ve seen an uptick in the number of applications for private rulings from NFPs. This is being driven by a desire for certainty. Seeking a private ruling may not be the most efficient way of obtaining the guidance required. Applying for a private ruling can take a significant amount of time and be resource-intensive, particularly if additional information is required.
In June last year, I urged NFPs and sector stakeholders to check if our publicly available guidance addresses questions first. If you’ve relied on our public advice and guidance in good faith, you have the requisite certainty.
For NFPs who already have a private ruling, there’s a common misconception that a time ‘extension’ must be requested if the end date is approaching. This isn’t the case.
If your NFP’s circumstances haven’t materially changed from the circumstances outlined in your initial private ruling, you don’t need to apply for an extension.
In fact, the life of a private ruling cannot be extended and any new request is treated as a fresh application!
Final thoughts
In wrapping up this update, I’d like to call out the extraordinary efforts of the sector, my team, and all the internal and external stakeholders who have contributed to the implementation of the NFP self-review return. The NFP sector is significant and expected to grow with billions of dollars flowing through it. It’s appropriate for Australians to expect that all NFPs are meeting their tax, super and registry obligations and that they operate for the purpose for which they’re established. Modelling good behaviour ensures we can sustain a vibrant sector.
On that note, I wish everyone a safe break with the approaching Easter and Anzac public holidays, particularly if you’re taking a road trip.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)
For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland April 14, 2025 202-808-6129
PRESS RELEASE
PLASKETT MEETS WITH VIRGIN ISLANDS PHYSICIANS AND LOCAL HOSPITAL BOARD ON STATE OF VI HEALTHCARE
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement:
“Last week, I and my office met with key stakeholders in our healthcare sector. Given the heightened concerns related to our hospitals in the Virgin Islands- including staffing shortages, supply deficits, and operational challenges, meeting with those responsible fr the hospitals was very relevant. On Thursday, we met with the Juan F. Luis Hospital physicians and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Regina Flippin, as well as the Schneider Regional Medical Center physicians and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. George Rosenberg, and on Sunday, I met with the Virgin Islands Government Hospital and Health Facilities Corporation Territorial Board Executive Committee (Corporation). I appreciate the responsiveness of the physician community and the Corporation, and value the respective, collaborative discussions.
“We discussed the difficulties that the Virgin Islands hospitals are presently facing, including the problems listed above, and we discussed long term funding gaps which continue to plague our healthcare system. There have been decades-long attempts to change multiple federal programs and funding formulas. During the Biden Administration, I was able, in legislation, to change the percent of Medicaid payment by the federal government from 55% to 83% and raise the Medicaid cap. Medicare payments for the Virgin Islands are calculated using the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (TEFRA). Under TEFRA, the respective base years are 1982 for the Schneider Regional Medical Center (SRMC) and 1996 for the Governor Juan F. Louis Hospital (JFL). The base year reimbursement system, which relies upon an inflation adjustment, does not accurately capture the expenses of patient care services. I have introduced legislation for healthcare equity in each Congress and included in annual appropriations legislation language to urge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to update the payment data and formulas for the hospitals in the Virgin Islands. Additionally, I have met with CMS leadership to urge the use of their administrative scope to assign a new base period, which is more representative of the reasonable and necessary cost of inpatient services.
“Additionally, during the calls we discussed Medicare and Medicaid payment systems that allow rural and geographically isolated hospitals an increased reimbursement rate. I have been a longstanding advocate to extend and permit Medicaid and Medicare Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) payments to U.S. territories. We also discussed during the meetings other programs and creative mechanisms to create larger funding for the hospitals, which we will pursue.
“We also discussed in our Sunday meeting the Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center and the Morris De Castro Clinic on St. John and the vital support they provide to the community. I understand that the Request for Proposals for the construction contracts for both centers are now closed, and I am hopeful that they are reconstructed in short order, to ensure that providers and community members on St. John have the necessary infrastructure for their healthcare spaces.
“My office is committed to working with everyone in the Virgin Islands healthcare space to ensure that our providers and community have the necessary support to ensure both short- and long-term stability. I am grateful for the commitment and passion of our doctors and healthcare professionals. They have made a lifetime commitment to our community, and I respect their dedication to their patients. I was also happy for the transparency of the hospital Board in discussing their ongoing work to stabilize and create positive change in the hospital. The hospitals provide essential care to everyone in the Virgin Islands, and I will collaborate with the federal and local government to protect our healthcare system.”
Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) applauded Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin for announcing an expedited plan to clean up St. Louis’ West Lake Landfill two years earlier than originally planned. The EPA’s newly released report comes after Senator Hawley hosted Administrator Zeldin at West Lake Landfill and Coldwater Creek last month so he could witness the radioactive waste and its aftermath firsthand.
In the report, Administrator Zeldin notes the challenges that have plagued Missourians for years as a result of the federal government illegally dumping the radioactive waste decades ago.
“Meeting and speaking with the St. Louis community members who have long endured radioactive waste in their community was beyond moving. This moment requires an unprecedented effort to clean up the West Lake Landfill and impacted sites in the area. I look forward to partnering with Senator Josh Hawley to achieve remarkable and urgent progress,” said EPA Administrator Zeldin.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and colleagues introduced the LIABLE Act, which removes immunity from, and allows suits against, international organizations that provide material support to designated terror groups which commit terrorism against Americans.
Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “The United Nations Relief and Works Agency officials have for decades knowingly provided support to Hamas terrorists, including salaries and materials. That support facilitated Hamas’s terrorist attack on October 7th, which was the worst one-day massacre of Jews since the Holocaust and included the murder and kidnapping of dozens of Americans. Those victims and their families deserve the ability to hold UNRWA accountable, and the LIABLE Act would give them that opportunity.”
The bill is co-sponsored by Sens. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.).
Sen. Cramer said, “International organizations who knowingly support foreign terrorist organizations should be held legally responsible for their complicity in terrorism. The LIABLE Act ensures those who provide material support to terrorism—whether through direct involvement or by aiding and abetting—can no longer hide behind legal immunity.”
Sen. Budd said, “I’m proud to stand with Senator Cruz and my colleagues to introduce the LIABLE Act, which would ensure that victims of terrorism, along with their families, can seek justice and hold international organizations accountable for aiding and abetting terrorist acts. There is no better example of this than UNRWA, an organization with longstanding ties to Hamas, whose staff members participated in the horrific October 7th attacks. America must send a clear message: supporting terrorism will never be tolerated or ignored.”
Sen. Ricketts said, “UNRWA employees provided material support for Hamas terrorists and contributed to the barbaric October 7th attacks,” said Ricketts. “They need to be held accountable for aiding and abetting terrorism. This bill will enable American victims of terrorism to get justice.”
Sen. Hagerty said, “UNRWA has provided material support to the terrorist organization Hamas and has cultivated anti-Israel extremism and terrorism. UNRWA employees directly participated in the terrorist attacks of October 7th that killed dozens of Americans and UNRWA schools produced over 100 graduates who participated in the atrocities of that terrible day. I am proud to cosponsor this necessary legislation that makes it possible to hold UNRWA accountable for its complicity in terrorism.”
Sen. Barrasso said, “Any international organization aiding terrorist groups must be investigated and held accountable. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency has a lot to answer for after providing resources to Hamas terrorists. The blood of innocent Americans and Israelis who were kidnapped or killed on October 7 is on their hands. I am proud to join Senator Cruz and my colleagues on this important legislation to give victims and their families an opportunity for much-deserved justice.”
Sen. Scott said, “For years, UNRWA has been aiding Iran-backed Hamas in their spread of hateful antisemitism. UNRWA has supported Hamas in enabling these terrorists to commit the horrific massacre and mass kidnapping of Israelis and Jewish Americans over 550 days ago, on October 7th, and the sick individuals responsible for this terrorism must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I’m proud to join my colleague, Senator Ted Cruz, to introduce the LIABLE Act and ensure the victims and their families can finally bring UNRWA to justice.”
Sen. Schmitt said, “International organization like UNWRA are deeply tied with Hamas and must be held accountable for playing a role in kidnapping, murdering, and maiming countless innocent lives on October 7th. I am proud to stand with Senator Cruz as a cosponsor of the LIABLE Act to hold these organizations accountable.”
Read the bill text here.
BACKGROUND
The Limiting Immunity for Assisting Backers of Lethal Extremism (LIABLE) Act would allow American victims of terrorist groups to sue international organizations that provide resources to terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. These organizations would otherwise be immune from lawsuits pursuant to the International Organization Immunity Act (IOIA), which parallels the immunity provided to foreign states through the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA).
During the Biden administration, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) received hundreds of millions of dollars which was poured into the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. That process would normally constitute material support for terrorism, because the assistance directly and indirectly benefits Hamas—a known terrorist group. And yet, the Biden administration granted waivers among other legislative measures to circumvent the law and enable UNRWA to support Hamas.
ICYMI: WSJ Op-Ed: “Let Terror Victims Sue UNRWA”
Sen. Cruz and colleagues wrote to then-AG Garland urging the U.S. Department of Justice to open a criminal investigation into UNRWA USA, a U.S.-based non-profit that raises funds for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), for providing material support for terrorism.
Sen. Cruz is committed to being the Senate leader in supporting our ally, Israel, and bolstering the U.S.-Israel relationship.
Sen. Cruz introduced a bill to designate the Iranian-controlled Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization.
Sen. Cruz led a letter to then-U.N. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield opposing Palestinian effort to suspend Israel from the U.N. General Assembly.
Sen. Cruz introduced the Terminating Unlawful Negligence and Nullifying Exemptions and Licenses to Sanctions (TUNNELS) Act of 2024, to rescind the licenses employed by the Biden administration to channel U.S. aid through international and non-governmental organizations to Gaza, and prevent these licenses from being reissued.
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
April 10, 2025
President Trump’s promises that Social Security benefits will not be cut are providing little reassurance to Massachusetts residents, advocates and employees who are witnessing changes to the program firsthand.
The Trump administration has slashed the nearly 90-year-old agency’s workforce as part of an effort to downsize the federal government. Though no cuts have been made to individual benefits, service delays and staffing reductions are creating anxiety for people across the state.
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“They may not be cutting the dollar amount that an individual has earned and is slated to receive, but it’s still a cut if that individual can’t access those funds,” said Betsy Connell, executive director of the Massachusetts Councils on Aging. “If you cut staff, and you cut access to the administration of those services, you’re going to impede people from accessing those benefits.”
Nearly 1.5 million people in the state — about one in five residents — receive Social Security. The federal program provides retirement benefits and disability income to qualified people and often serves as their primary — or only — source of income, advocates say. Massachusetts is home to the highest percentage of older adults in the country living alone and in poverty, according to the Gerontology Institute at UMass Boston.
In recent weeks, phones have been ringing at local councils on aging, elected officials’ offices and Social Security field offices. Often it’s people expressing concern and confusion, advocates say, but there have also been complaints about delayed benefits, long wait times and unexplained errors.
Changes at the agency
The Social Security Administration has cut some 7,000 jobs, including about 3,000 employees who accepted a buyout offer or early retirement. More staff reductions are expected at the agency in the coming weeks.
Rich Couture, a spokesman for the union representing Social Security workers, said the exodus has damaged the agency, which was already at a 50-year staffing low. He said it has caused rising wait times on the national information hotline and longer approval periods for benefits.
In Massachusetts, many field offices in and around Boston were not meeting the agency’s goal of processing 83% of claims within two weeks of filing before the cuts.
Camillie Piñeiro, who works in the Springfield office, said the site is already understaffed by 13 employees, and five more plan to take the early retirement offer.
“People with the most experience have been incentivized to walk away,” Piñeiro said. “The more understaffed we are, the bigger the burden on those that stay.”
The smaller workforce could pose an even bigger problem starting April 14, when many people seeking benefits will need in-person appointments to verify their identities. The new policy was scaled back after advocates and lawmakers raised concerns about barriers to service. Still, Piñeiro said half the calls she answers on the general inquiry line are from people worried their benefits will be stopped if they can’t make it into the office.
Some Social Security beneficiaries don’t live near a field office or lack access to public transportation. In Massachusetts, the Greenfield field office closed over a decade ago, leaving a gap in Franklin County, a largely rural area where 18,925 residents receive Social Security, according to U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s office.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., joined at right by Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, criticizes efforts by President Trump, Elon Musk, and Republicans in Congress to compromise the Social Security program, in Washington, D.C. Tuesday, April 1, 2025. (J. Scott Applewhite/AP)
Concerns about in-person service have been exacerbated by the Trump administration’s plans to close federal buildings. No Massachusetts sites are on the list of Social Security offices closing this year. But the Thomas P. O’Neill Jr. Federal Building in Boston, which houses a Social Security office, was on a list of buildings to sell that the Trump administration posted and later took down in March. Union spokesman Couture worries the federal government will again target the O’Neill building for closure.
“All these federal buildings — well, that’s one avenue for closure,” Couture said. “So the entire system is under attack.”
Another change causing concern is a new overpayment policy, Piñeiro said. In the past, the agency deducted 10% of a recipient’s monthly benefit if they had received more than they were entitled to. This can result from a mistake on Social Security’s part or a failure to make updates that might impact a person’s benefits.
Now, the agency is withholding all funds until any overpayment is addressed.
“That brings people into the office in a state of desperation,” Piñeiro said. “Retirees cannot afford to lose for one month their benefit.”
Billionaire Elon Musk, who is helming DOGE, the White House’s cost-cutting unit, has repeatedly cited Social Security fraud as a significant problem. But Couture said the fraud rate is far less than 1% of payments a year.
“One of the ways to mitigate this is to provide the agency with resources,” Couture said. “Overpayments could be avoided with adequate staffing.”
Delays and confusion
Some Massachusetts residents have reported long wait times, payment delays and confusing messages in their online account portals.
Carolyn Villers, executive director of the Massachusetts Senior Action Council, said her organization joined a lawsuit filed last Wednesday alleging DOGE and the Social Security Administration’s actions violate laws protecting the benefit. Villers said her group has received concerning reports in recent weeks that include payment delays.
Two individuals who were set to receive benefits on March 26 didn’t receive their checks until April 1, leaving one woman unable to pay her rent on time, Villers said, calling it “alarming.”
“I have worked with Mass Senior Action 20 years this fall, and I have never heard of people getting delayed or late payments, certainly without explanation,” she said.
She said she has also heard reports of phone wait times exceeding three hours and limited availability for in-person appointments. One woman was told she would have to wait 40 days — more than a month — for an appointment at any of the six offices in her region, Villers said.
“Until recently, I had not heard of people who called and were told ‘no available appointments,’ ” Villers said. “We have seen and heard from our members and the larger community that there has been a noticeable shift in a lack of access.”
Error reports also appear to be on the rise, Villers said. Concerns have circulated on social media from people who found notices in their online accounts that said they are no longer receiving benefits.
Tom and Christine, a Westborough couple who asked WBUR to withhold their last name because they fear retribution for speaking out, received one such notice. They logged in March 31 to check the account of their son Ned, who has autism. He gets Social Security disability benefits that help pay for the group home where he receives 24/7 care.
The notice on his account caused them to panic, said Chistine. She said she worried that she might have to reapply for her son’s benefits. It turned out to be an error, and the payment arrived on time the following day.
The family also had to wait three weeks to schedule an appointment for Ned’s Medicare benefits. Christine said these experiences have shaken her confidence in the system.
“These are not people we need to stress more, and these are not families we need to stress more,” she said.
Taking action
Massachusetts’ two U.S. senators, both Democrats, say they’re fighting to preserve Social Security benefits.
Last week, Sen. Warren and three other Democratic senators launched a “Social Security War Room” to educate the public about cuts and encourage grassroots activism.
“It is about having a place to bring the stories, so we can have all of the American people privy to what we hear when we’re back home,” Warren told reporters.
Sen. Ed Markey said his office has contacted Social Security officials about complaints from his constituents.
“My office is contacted daily by senior citizens who are terrified that they will lose the earned benefits they rely on to eat and to keep a roof over their head,” he told reporters last month.
Musk and his DOGE team have yet to comment on the lawsuit the Massachusetts Senior Action Council and four other groups filed with seven beneficiaries.
“We keep hearing the administration and Trump say, ‘We’re not gonna cut Social Security.’ Well, they are,” Villers said. “These delays and disruptions that are creating barriers to people accessing their earned benefits are absolutely a cut.”
This story is part of a partnership between WBUR and the Boston University Department of Journalism.
Chief Executive of China’s Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Sam Hou Fai delivered the 2025 fiscal year policy address on Monday, outlining the overall policy direction, enhancing diversification, improving people’s livelihood, strengthening governance, and integrating into national development. Sam delivered his first policy address at the Legislative Assembly. He stated that the new SAR government will work closely with all sectors of society and the public to pursue innovative development and usher in a new chapter for Macao. He noted strengthening coordination mechanisms as a key initiative in the government’s effort to reform administration and improve governance capacity, elaborating that the government has established six leadership groups and working groups to coordinate the advancement of major cross-sectoral affairs. Sam also pointed out that Hengqin is key to unlocking Macao’s appropriate economic diversification, and the SAR government regards the high-quality achievement of the second-stage development goals of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin as a significant task. In his address, Sam set forth the government’s primary expectations for 2025: to consolidate economic recovery, improve employment conditions, deepen administrative reform, and pursue deeper integration into national development. He said that infrastructure connectivity within the Greater Bay Area will be further enhanced, and Macao will further enrich its role as a platform between China and Portuguese-speaking countries. Sam said the SAR government will move forward with several major infrastructure projects, including an international education (university) city, the Macao international integrated tourism and cultural zone, an international aviation hub along the Pearl River, and a science and technology R&D industrial park.
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones will take one of the largest delegations in recent years to the Chatham Islands tomorrow for his next regional summit. “It is important, given the relative isolation of the islands, to take the summit to the people who live there. The Chathams has an infrastructure deficit and I am going there in person to share with the locals the criteria of the Regional Infrastructure Fund and how they can apply for project funding,” Mr Jones says. “I expect a big turnout from the locals for this summit. Previously, the Crown funded projects through the Provincial Growth Fund. I’m keen to see how they have contributed to the local economy. Boosting resilience is critical. “ I am taking a large delegation including government ministers and MPs, experts in a range of fields, business leaders and officials. Energy, fishing, tourism and alternative land use are all areas which could benefit from the connections made at the summit tomorrow and I hope to hear some ambitious plans from the islanders.” Mr Jones will also be accompanied by the Rātana Band, a rare visit, and an acknowledgement of the historical ties between the Rātana Church and the Chathams. The Coalition Government’s drive for regional economic growth through the $1.2 billion Regional Infrastructure Fund is on track with more than $580 million in funding so far committed to key infrastructure projects. “To date, the Regional Infrastructure Fund has received more than 260 applications. Approved investments align with the Government’s focus areas of enabling growth and water storage, supporting energy generation and Māori economic development, and increasing resilience,” Mr Jones says. Mr Jones has so far held 11 summits around the country, with more than 1300 stakeholders attending. Summits will be held for Wairarapa and Kāpiti on 9 May, and Otago on 16 May. The Regional Infrastructure Fund is a capital fund with the primary purpose of accelerating infrastructure projects, particularly with a focus on water storage, energy, Māori economic development, growth, and resilience. Committed funding includes approved funding and funding ring-fenced for specific purposes but is yet to be approved for release.
Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
BURLINGTON, Vt., April 14 – In an Oval Office meeting with President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador, President Trump failed to demand the release of Kilmer Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was wrongly deported from the United States and sent to a Salvadoran prison. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement in response:
Just a few weeks ago, the Trump administration admitted that the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a father of three who has been in the country more than decade, was an “administrative error.”
Then, the U.S. Supreme Court — in a 9-0 decision backed by every Trump-appointed justice — ruled that the administration must bring Abrego Garcia back to the United States.
Now, in open defiance of the Supreme Court and without any evidence, the White House claims that Abrego Garcia is a “terrorist,” who was “sent to the right place.”
This is a blatant LIE. As Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote, “To this day, the Government has cited no basis in law for Abrego Garcia’s warrantless arrest, his removal to El Salvador, or his confinement in a Salvadoran prison. Nor could it. The Government remains bound by an Immigration Judge’s 2019 order expressly prohibiting Abrego Garcia’s removal to El Salvador.”
Kilmar Abrego Garcia is an innocent man and the father of three. He must not be allowed to rot in an El Salvadorian jail based on lies and defiance of our Constitution. He must be brought home immediately.
This is just another step forward in Trump’s move toward authoritarianism.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Government secures raw materials to save British Steel
The Government has secured raw materials needed to save British Steel.
The Business Secretary pushes ahead with efforts to safeguard British Steel. Today [Tuesday 15 April] he will travel up to Immingham as the raw materials that have been waiting in the dock are unloaded and transported to the site, following the government settling payment for them.
The materials – which have arrived from the US – are enough to keep the blast furnaces running for the coming weeks, with officials continuing to work at pace to get a steady pipeline of materials to keep the fire burning.
A separate ship which contains yet more coking coal is on the way to the UK from Australia. This cargo was the subject of a legal dispute between British Steel and Jingye over the weekend that has now been resolved. The materials have been paid for using existing DBT budgets.
New legislation passed last weekend, in an unprecedented move, gives Government the power to direct the company’s board and workforce, ensure they get paid, and order the raw materials to keep the blast furnaces running. It also permits the Government to do these things itself if needed. The government acted to protect 37,000 jobs in supply chains and ensure we can build the infrastructure needed to deliver growth which is fundamental to the Plan for Change.
On Monday, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds confirmed the appointment of Allan Bell as interim Chief Executive Officer, and Lisa Coulson as interim Chief Commercial Officer, both with immediate effect – ensuring the right expertise is in place to keep the site running smoothly.
After intensive work over the weekend, the government has secured coke and iron ore pellets for the blast furnaces and is confident there will be enough materials to keep the furnaces burning.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:
We will always act in the interest of working people and UK industry. Thanks to the work of those at British Steel, and in my department, we have moved decisively to secure the raw materials we need to help save British Steel.
Our industries depend on UK steel and – thanks to our Plan for Change – demand is set to shoot up: helping build the 1.5 million homes, railways, schools and hospitals we need to usher in a decade of national renewal.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
UK announces new humanitarian funding for Sudan
The UK has announced new support to Sudan ahead of the Sudan conference which will bring together international representatives.
The UK will commit further life-saving aid for over 650,000 people affected by the ongoing violence as Sudan faces the worst humanitarian crisis on record.
A one-day conference will unite foreign ministers and leading humanitarian leaders at a conference in London to mark the two-year anniversary of the brutal conflict in Sudan.
International representatives will discuss how to achieve a peaceful end to the conflict and address the issues preventing aid reaching those most in need.
Today [15th April] the UK will co-host a conference in London alongside the African Union, EU, France and Germany to mark the two-year anniversary of the conflict in Sudan with attendees including major donors and multilateral institutions.
Bringing together foreign ministers from across the globe, the Foreign Secretary will step up international efforts to protect civilians and work towards an end to the conflict.
During a one-day conference, he will announce new life-saving aid to support over 650,000 Sudanese people. Alongside international counterparts, he will also identify steps to improve humanitarian access and find a long-term political solution.
Sudan is facing the worst humanitarian crisis on record, with over 30 million people in desperate need of aid, over 12 million people are displaced, and famine is spreading throughout Sudan. Over 12 million women and girls are also at risk of gender-based violence.
The new £120 million funding announced today will deliver lifesaving food and nutrition supplies, including for vulnerable children and will provide emergency support to survivors of sexual violence.
The Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:
Two years is far too long – the brutal war in Sudan has devastated the lives of millions – and yet much of the world continues to look away. We need to act now to stop the crisis from becoming an all-out catastrophe, ensuring aid gets to those who need it the most.
As I saw earlier this year on a visit to Chad’s border with Sudan, the warring parties have shown an appalling disregard for the civilian population of Sudan. This conference will bring together the international community to agree a pathway to end the suffering.
Instability must not spread – it drives migration from Sudan and the wider region, and a safe and stable Sudan is vital for our national security. The UK will not let Sudan be forgotten.
African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye said:
Achieving peace in Sudan depends on valuing every voice and everyone playing a role in building a prosperous Sudan. The African Union is committed to assisting all the people of Sudan build a brighter democratic future by working to silence the guns.
The ongoing conflict and instability risks spilling over into the wider region, driving Sudanese people away from their homes, with some taking dangerous onward journeys to the UK and Europe. Instability in Sudan also directly impacts the UK’s national security.
The UK wants to help tackle instability in Sudan and reduce the level of irregular migration from the region to Europe and the UK as part of its Plan for Change.
Countries and organisations attending the Sudan conference include the United Kingdom, the African Union (AU), the European Union (EU), France, Germany, Canada, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Norway, Qatar, South Sudan, Switzerland, Türkiye, United Arab Emirates, Uganda, United States of America, alongside high-level Representatives of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the League of Arab States (LAS) and the United Nations (UN).
On 17 November, the Foreign Secretary announced a £113 million aid package, which will support over a million people affected by violence in Sudan.
The new £120 million funding announced today is for the 2025/2026 financial year and will deliver food including pulses, oils, salts and cereals.
The UK welcomes the 13 February decision to keep the critical Chad-Sudan Adré border crossing open for three more months. But the Sudanese Armed Forces must keep it open permanently, and without restrictions.
The parties to the conflict continue to obstruct the work of humanitarian agencies, through delaying visas for aid workers and limiting their movements throughout Sudan.
Funding announced today aims to reach over 600,000 people including:
670,000 people reached with food assistance for three months.
205,000 people reached through a cash-based response.
600,000 people reached through nutrition and water and sanitation.
Just listed on Auckland Council’s LinkedIn jobs board is a range of paid positions to govern Tāmaki Makaurau for passionate Aucklanders to consider applying for.
This year’s local elections in October mean Auckland’s current political leaders will either stand for re-election or step aside. A fresh set of candidates will also have the opportunity to get in the race.
Auckland Council’s Governance and Engagement General Manager Lou-Ann Ballantyne explains why the council is in the market for new leaders.
“It’s important to have a range of new and differing perspectives when it comes to leading the unique region that is Tāmaki Makaurau,” Ms Ballantyne says.
“With a governing body of 20 ward councillors representing the region, alongside a mayor to lead Auckland’s vision, and representatives for 21 local board areas to serve at community level, there are plenty of opportunities and reasons to stand in Auckland’s local elections,” she says.
“Elected members lead planning and decision-making for our city centre and local development, economic development, transport, natural environment, water, wastewater and stormwater and its parks and community.
“We’re hoping for a diverse range of representatives with good local knowledge who care for their community and have great decision-making skills.”
Who could Auckland Council’s next elected members be?
Ms Ballantyne believes plenty of people could step into these roles.
“Without even knowing it, so many people would be great in these positions.
“If you already play a pivotal part in your community, like sports coaching, coordinating events, advising or providing consulting services to organisations, being the skipper of your waka or successfully steering your household – you could be perfect for the role,” she says.
“No political experience is necessary as your skills and qualities are likely to be transferrable and we’ll provide additional training to help bring you up to speed.
“There’s plenty of room for growth, development and a chance to try something completely different while taking on rewarding responsibilities that’ll make a difference to your community.”
Want to hear more?
Tune in to an upcoming live webinar on Wednesday 30 April, 4.30pm to hear everything there is to know about standing in the Auckland Local Elections 2025 and what you’d do if elected.
It’s local elections year which means Aucklanders will get to choose the mayor, ward councillors and local board members, who help shape the future of Auckland.
And did you know some voters could be eligible for more than one vote?
Auckland Council’s independent electoral officer, Dale Ofsoske from Independent Election Services, explains how this is possible.
“Some might ask how this is legal, but it certainly is: wherever you pay rates you can vote.
“If you live in one local board area and pay rates on a property in another, you may be able to vote for local board members in both – to be eligible for that additional vote, you just need to add your name to the ratepayer electoral role,” says Mr Ofsoske.
Ratepayers are eligible to enrol on the ratepayer electoral roll and vote in the Tāmaki Makaurau local elections if they pay rates:
on an Auckland property, but live elsewhere
on two or more properties in different areas of Auckland.
You can check online if you’re on the ratepayer electoral roll. It’s important to note ratepayers don’t get on the roll automatically – you must apply to be on the roll.
Also, if there are multiple property owners, only one owner can vote with that property’s address.
For example, Jo and Sam own an apartment in Mt Roskill and a home where they live in Glenfield. If they are enrolled on the electoral roll, they can each vote for the mayor, North Shore Ward councillors and Kaipātiki Local Board members. One of them can also enrol on the non-resident ratepayer roll to make an additional vote for members of the Puketāpapa Local Board.
A company or society that pays property rates can also qualify as a ratepayer elector.
Check out the ward and local board finder to look up your ward and local board area.
While candidates can’t officially submit their nominations until Friday 4 July – with nominations closing at midday on Friday 1 August – anticipation will start to build as voters receive the Electoral Commission’s enrolment confirmation packs in the mail in April.
So, it’s a good time to ensure that your voting packs get sent to the right place. Check your enrolment details and enrol or update any address details by Friday 1 August at vote.nz/enrolling.
For everything there is to know about Auckland’s elections, go to voteauckland.co.nz.
The Tertiary Education Union’s opposition to free speech legislation shows exactly why free speech policies are needed at university, says ACT Tertiary Education spokesperson Dr Parmjeet Parmar.
“We know that university staff want the power to decide what ideas are allowed on campus. We’re telling them no.
“Universities are primarily funded by the taxpayer, and we all have an interest in ensuring they are fostering genuine debate and disagreement.
“Universities have historically, and rightly, offered space for contrasting ideas to be tested in debate. In fact, the whole project of academic inquiry and enlightenment hinges on the premise that any idea can be aired and challenged.
“Free expression includes the right to seek different perspectives. If students invite a willing speaker – whether it’s Don Brash or an extremist like Tamatha Paul – that speaker should be allowed to speak. No-one is forced to listen, and the political opinions of university staff shouldn’t come into it.
“The suggestion that a free speech policy is ‘nanny state’ regulation is laughable. ACT secured the free speech commitment precisely to get busybody university staff out of the business of regulating speech. We have set out clear requirements for a complaints process precisely because we have seen universities fail to uphold their students’ speech rights.”
St Francis of Assisi recommended having the serenity to accept what you can’t change, the courage to change what you can, and the wisdom to know the difference. He’d probably be quite useful for dealing with the Trump Tariff situation.
The Government of New Zealand cannot change the events unfolding overseas, but there are still useful things it can do. When you can’t change trade policy, the best trade policy is good domestic policy.
Regardless of trade conditions, the New Zealand Governmentcanchoose better domestic policies. It is (mostly) getting value from taxpayer funded services, regulating lightly, and managing the assets it owns. That’s where the emphasis should be as the May 22 Budget approaches.
One-way Traffic
Never has Parliament seen such a one-sided debate as the two hours it set aside for the second reading of the Treaty Principles Bill. A dozen MPs spoke against the Bill, but not one referred to the principles set out in the Bill. They certainly didn’t explain why they were opposed to the principles.
We saw the vote in Parliament, so we know the Bill was defeated in one sense, but in another sense it succeded. No idea can survive being displaced by a better ideal. The filtering of ideas is how open societies advance. On the other hand, no idea has ever been defeated by emotion and abuse alone. Only light can drive out darkness.
So long as an idea remains the best available argument, its time in the sun will come back around. Let’s put it another way, if there were better ideas than those put in the Bill, why didn’t opponents say what they were, at some point during a two hour debate?
Take Willie Jackson, who got booted from Parliament for calling David Seymour a liar, again. What’s interesting is this:Free Pressknows Jackson had a chance to debate Seymour on TV3, but turned it down multiple times. For some reason we’re reminded of Ronald Reagan’s comment on the American flag: These colors don’t run.
Jackson didn’t just run in the media, though, he ran in the House as well. Parliament sat for over 100 days over the 14 months David Seymour was the Associate Minister of Justice responsible for the Treaty Principles Bill. Jackson could have asked Seymour questions hundreds of times but he only asked one question on the Bill. The question is captured in theYouTube video, viewed 80,000 times.The video shows why Jackson didn’t come back for more.
For all his talk, Jackson ran like diarrhoea when challenged to serious debate. Perhaps it’s not his fault, though. Perhaps nobody could give him good arguments. After all, if someone so passionately opposed to the Bill did have a good argument, they’d use it, wouldn’t they?
Not one MP in the debate got up and said ‘The Bill says x. I disagree with x. My reason is y. I think we’d have a better country if…z. None of them got to x. Nobody (except David Seymour) quoted the Bill. Even media commentators accepted David Seymour’s point that the opponents were not engaging with the Bill.
When the hysteria and personal attacks die down, people will be left to answer the simple question: what was wrong with the Treaty Principles Bill? Nobody has given an answer that engages with the contents of the Bill. That’s why we believe the Principles below will be the law of New Zealand sooner or later, it’s just a matter of time.
If you’re one of those people who’ve quietly (or not so quietly) supported David Seymour and ACT advancing the Principles below, thank you. We predict that, between now and the next election, ACT will lay out a new approach to making these undefeated principles part of our way of life. Until then we are grateful for your support.
Principle 1 The Executive Government of New Zealand has full power to govern, and the Parliament of New Zealand has full power to make laws,— (a) in the best interests of everyone; and (b) in accordance with the rule of law and the maintenance of a free and democratic society.
Principle 2 (1) The Crown recognises, and will respect and protect, the rights that hapū and iwi Māori had under the Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi at the time they signed it. (2) However, if those rights differ from the rights of everyone, subclause (1) applies only if those rights are agreed in the settlement of a historical treaty claim under the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975
Principle 3 (1) Everyone is equal before the law. (2) Everyone is entitled, without discrimination, to— (a) the equal protection and equal benefit of the law; and (b) the equal enjoyment of the same fundamental human rights.
Minor law change needed to take pressure off GPs and return people to work faster
Physiotherapy patients are waiting too long to be allowed to return to work, likely costing ACC millions of dollars in compensation payments it should not be paying because of delays in getting GPs to sign return to work certificates.
Physiotherapy New Zealand (PNZ) is calling on the Government to amend the law to allow physiotherapists the same power as GPs to certify that a patient who is under ACC care is ready to return to work.
“New Zealand physiotherapists have the skills and experience to ensure people can return to work safely and with GPs under more pressure than ever, now is the time to remove the bottleneck,” said PNZ President Kirsten Davie.
“Physiotherapists write the return to work plans now for their patients which GPs sign off on so it’s just common sense to give physiotherapists the same authority. They already do this for employers who need a return-to-work certificate for workers who are not on ACC compensation to ensure they are meeting health and safety requirements.
“These days getting a timely appointment with a GP is harder than ever, especially in remote parts of New Zealand. We have heard of cases where people without a GP have been forced to wait hours in A&E to get a return-to-work certificate.
“And even if a patient can get to a GP, they may be charged for the visit.
“None of this makes sense when a simple amendment to the Accident Compensation Corporation Act giving physiotherapists the power to sign return to work certificates would get people back to work quickly and safely.
Business supports change
“Businesses agree with us – they want their staff back to work as soon as possible, as long as they are fit and healthy, and likewise patients who are fit again, want their lives to return to normal as well.”
The construction industry is keen to see physiotherapists given the authority to return workers to building sites.
“It just makes good sense,” said Chris Alderson, chief executive of Construction Health and Safety New Zealand which works to raise the standard of health, safety and wellbeing in construction.
“Many of the injuries construction workers suffer are musculoskeletal related, which physios are well placed to remedy. GPs often refer a worker to a physio who understands the treatment a worker needs and exercises that will help get them back to work fit and well.
“We know many construction workers don’t have easy access to a GP, so may end up just not getting the treatment they need until the pain is too bad or end up at emergency departments for conditions that should have been dealt with earlier. Giving physios the ability to sign off the return to work will take pressure off primary health care and get workers back to sites far more quickly. It’s just not good for anyone’s mental health and well-being to sit at home when they are ready to go back to work.”
Cost of compensation
The cost of compensation that should not be paid out by ACC when people are ready to return to work runs to millions of dollars every year. A Physiotherapy New Zealand survey of members in August 2024 showed how big the problem is. 454 members identified at least 4,400 days of delay for their patients getting a return-to-work certificate in one month alone (equivalent to 628 weeks).
ACC stipulates the minimum rate of weekly compensation payable is $740.80, based on a 40-hour week (ACC weekly compensation information here). That amounts to $4,656,457, just under half a million in weekly compensation from our member survey in one month alone.
“Cost savings for ACC in returning people to work as soon as possible are likely to be significant. Right now, ACC is under pressure to reduce costs and be sustainable, so this change makes good financial sense too. ACC weekly compensation claim payments have risen 70% within the last five years, and are projected to rise further.
“We want to take pressure off GPs and continue working together with them to get Kiwis back to work safely and well.
“This is a no-brainer – good for people’s health, good for economic growth, good for government finances.”
Patient example – Robyn, nurse
Robyn (not her real name) is a nurse in Gisborne (not her real name). She fractured her foot slipping on stairs, which prevented her from returning to work at the local hospital. She rested and after six weeks the fracture clinic discharged her and referred her to physiotherapy for a supported return to work. Robyn was able to do some temporary office work at this time.
Her physiotherapist assessed her and developed a return to work plan. In order to begin this planned return to work, Robyn needed a signed certificate from a GP. Robyn couldn’t get to see her GP for three weeks as the clinic was only taking emergency cases given how busy it is.
Without the certificate Robyn was unable to begin the return to her usual clinical duties or continue with the office work. She needed to be either given full clearance for her usual work or be certified partially fit to return to office work and begin the plan with her physiotherapist.
Since Robyn’s current certificate had expired, ACC compensation stopped.
Robyn worried she would not have any income for these three weeks, being neither on ACC compensation nor back at work. This left her in limbo until her physiotherapist intervened, called the GP clinic, explained the urgent need, and the GP clinic issued the certificate including the plan the physiotherapist had provided.
“This was really frustrating – I was facing weeks without income sitting around at home because I couldn’t get to see a GP. It shouldn’t take a call from my physio to make this happen. And we have a real shortage of nurses here so having a nurse out of action for longer than necessary just puts more pressure on the hospital when it doesn’t need to be that way. Physios should be able to do the paperwork to get people back to work as soon as they are fit and well.”
Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union
AFL-CIO, AFGE, AFSCME, AFT, IAM, SEIU, and UFCW Are Plaintiffs in the Lawsuit to Restore the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service
NEW YORK – The AFL-CIO and unions representing workers across private and public sector industries sued the Trump administration today over its dismantling of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), including firing mediators and staff, and closing field offices across the country.
FMCS is a small but important independent federal agency that is integral to the government’s labor relations infrastructure. Among the critical services FMCS provides, it helps resolve contract negotiations between workers and employers to protect both the economy and workers’ rights, generating over $500 million in national economic savings each year, even by conservative estimates. But DOGE cuts have decimated the agency: 93% of FMCS staff have been placed on leave, the mediation workforce has been taken down from the 80-100 needed for the agency’s work to just five, and all of the field offices have been closed.
The suit argues that the administration’s actions are illegal under the Administrative Procedure Act and the U.S. Constitution because they amount to an effective dismantling of FMCS that has prevented it from performing its statutory responsibilities required by Congress.
“FMCS is a little-known but critical government agency that works to bring labor and management together to solve problems between workers and employers—and it’s illegally under attack by Elon Musk and his DOGE,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “Without FMCS, there will be longer and drawn-out contract negotiations, as well as delays in implementing increased wages and improved benefits won through collective bargaining. The unnecessary cuts to FMCS make absolutely no economic sense and will cost taxpayers, consumers, businesses and workers. Congress created FMCS nearly 80 years ago, and only an act of Congress can shutter it. I’m proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our affiliated unions today in filing this lawsuit to challenge this illegal, cruel and wrong-headed action by DOGE.”
“We are filing this lawsuit because once again, the administration is unlawfully shutting down an agency simply because billionaires do not like it. Hobbling employers’ and workers’ ability to negotiate will only hurt our communities,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “FMCS helps to mediate thousands of collective bargaining agreements and other disputes, ensuring workers are paid fairly while commerce and services continue to flow. The agency’s meager $55 million budget – which accounts for less than 0.0014% of the overall federal budget – generates more than $500 million in annual savings for our economy. Shutting it down helps only billionaires like Elon Musk and his anti-union friends, who want to take away workers’ voice on the job.”
“This case is about more than a single agency — it’s about upholding workers’ fundamental bargaining rights and protecting a foundation stone of labor relations in America,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “FMCS was created by Congress as a neutral arbiter to promote labor peace and fair negotiations, a role it has proudly carried out for nearly 80 years. The president says he cares about working people, but that’s hard to believe when he attempts to abolish an agency that helps them negotiate fair contracts with their employers. FMCS was crucial to securing an agreement during the Oregon Nurses’ Association’s strike in February, and FMCS mediators were in the room for first contracts at charter schools across New Orleans, New York, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh—discussions that suddenly stalled in the face of the administration’s attacks. The AFT and our co-plaintiffs are suing to block the destruction of FMCS so it can continue to fulfil its Congressional mandate and ensure the administration follows, rather than ignores, federal law.”
“The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service is a small but mighty agency that directly benefits the U.S. economy by helping to resolve costly and disruptive labor disputes in the public and private sectors. Trump and Elon Musk’s efforts to abolish FMCS have nothing to do with saving taxpayers money and everything to do with gutting workers’ union rights and protections. It’s shameful, it’s wasteful, and it must be stopped,” said American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) National President Everett Kelley.
“The Trump administration has no legal right to eliminate FMCS through executive action, and no rational reason to eliminate an agency that helps working people,“ said United Federation of Teachers President Michael Mulgrew.
“The Trump administration’s reckless attempt to eliminate FMCS is yet another attack on working people and our rights to collectively bargain,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “FMCS is a small, but vitally important agency that serves as a much-needed independent arbiter during negotiations between workers and employers. For the IAM Union, FMCS has been vital in resolving contract disputes with national and international economic consequences, including a strike of 4,300 U.S. Navy shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works, and helping to avoid work stoppages on numerous occasions. We are proud to stand with our partners in the labor movement to fight back against this illegal attack on the rights of all working families.”
“We will not let this administration’s union-busting tactics take away our rights, and we will not take orders from an unelected billionaire. America’s public service workers serve our nation without regard to profits, politics, or glory. That’s why SEIU members are standing with our siblings at AFL-CIO, AFGE, AFSCME, AFT, IAM, UFCW and other unions to fight back against the President’s unlawful dismantling of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service,” said SEIU President April Verrett. “This isn’t just about protecting federal workers and their unions. It’s about protecting our communities. When you take away the voices of workers serving veterans, securing the border, and protecting public health, you silence the voices of all those who rely on their services, too.”
The legal challenge was brought by AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), International Associations of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), unions, as well as many locals and affiliates, which have worked with FMCS mediators in labor disputes with their members’ employers. Many are actively engaged in collective-bargaining negotiations with FMCS when the mediator was forced to abruptly leave or cancel the negotiations because they had been placed on leave. With only five mediators remaining at FMCS, these unions and their workers will be left in the lurch, working under expired contracts or no contracts, and strikes or lockouts are much more likely.
The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The complaint can be found online here.
Harvard University on Monday rejected the Trump administration’s demands to make sweeping changes to its governance, hiring and admissions practices, despite billions of dollars in federal funding being at risk if it fails to comply.
“We have informed the administration through our legal counsel that we will not accept their proposed agreement. The University will not negotiate over its independence or its constitutional rights,” Harvard University President Alan M. Garber wrote in a letter to members of the Harvard Community.
“The administration’s prescription goes beyond the power of the federal government,” Garber argued.
“Harvard is committed to fighting antisemitism and other forms of bigotry in its community,” two attorneys representing the university wrote in a letter Monday, while noting that “Harvard is not prepared to agree to demands that go beyond the lawful authority of this or any administration.”
Trump administration officials on Friday sent a letter to Harvard, demanding that the university make “meaningful governance reform and restructuring,” noting that “an investment is not an entitlement.”
“Harvard has in recent years failed to live up to both the intellectual and civil rights conditions that justify federal investment,” the letter read.
“We therefore present the below provisions as the basis for an agreement in principle that will maintain Harvard’s financial relationship with the federal government,” according to the administration’s letter.
The administration’s demands include: adopting and implementing merit-based hiring and admissions policies, and ceasing all preferences based on race, color, and national origin; reforming the recruitment, screening, and admissions of international students to prevent admitting students hostile to the American values and institutions, including students supportive of terrorism or antisemitism; reforming programs with “egregious records of antisemitism”; and shutting down all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
The Trump administration has threatened to cut federal funding to the country’s top universities, pressuring them to implement major changes.
It recently announced that it was reviewing 9 billion dollars in federal funding to Harvard and its affiliates.
Columbia University, which was at the heart of last year’s pro-Palestinian protests, became the first institution to face consequences, losing 400 million dollars in federal funding last month. University officials said they are currently in ongoing discussions with the administration to have the funding reinstated.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
HANOI, April 14 — Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, on Monday called for deepening the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.
Xi made the remarks when meeting with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee To Lam during his state visit to Vietnam.
Xi pointed out that he was very pleased to pay a state visit to Vietnam and realize the first round of mutual visits with General Secretary To Lam.
This year marks the 95th anniversary of the founding of the CPV, the 80th anniversary of the founding of Vietnam and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South, he said, extending warm congratulations to Vietnam on behalf of the CPC and the Chinese government.
China will, as always, support Vietnam in taking a socialist path that suits its national conditions, successfully holding the 14th National Congress of the CPV in 2026, and its steadfast pursuit of realizing the two goals set for the centenary of the party and the country.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, as well as the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, said Xi, stressing that over the past 75 years, regardless of changes in the international landscape, China and Vietnam have supported each other in the struggle for national independence and liberation, advanced side by side in the cause of socialist development, and forged ahead in their respective modernization endeavors, setting an example of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries.
Facing the changing and turbulent world, China and Vietnam have stayed committed to peaceful development and deepened their friendly cooperation, bringing much-needed stability and certainty to the world, Xi said.
Standing at a new historical starting point, the two sides should build on past achievements, forge ahead together and carry forward the profound traditional friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood,” said Xi.
Guided by the overall goals of achieving higher political mutual trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, stronger public support, closer multilateral coordination and better management and resolution of differences, the two countries should work to advance their comprehensive strategic cooperation with high quality, ensure steady and sustained progress in building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute even more to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi said.
Building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future carries great global significance, Xi said, noting that as the two countries jointly pursue peaceful development, their combined population of over 1.5 billion is jointly advancing toward modernization, which will contribute to regional and global peace and stability while promoting common development.
Both countries are committed to opening up and have played a constructive role in maintaining the stability and smooth operation of regional industrial and supply chains, as well as contributing to the advancement of economic globalization, Xi said.
A small boat with a lone sail cannot withstand rough seas, Xi said, noting that only by working together in the same boat can they ensure stability and long-term progress.
He noted that both China and Vietnam are beneficiaries of economic globalization, and the two sides should strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateralism and bullying practices, and work together to uphold the global free trade system and maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains.
Xi proposed six measures to deepen the building of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future.
First, enhance strategic mutual trust at a higher level.
Leaders of the two parties and countries should communicate with each other as relatives, Xi said, noting the two sides should give full play to the role of channels including inter-party, legislative bodies and political consultative organizations, deepen the exchange of experience in governance, and improve the leadership of the two parties in promoting national modernization.
Second, build a stronger security barrier.
The two sides should set the “3+3” strategic dialogue on diplomacy, defense and public security between the two countries at the ministerial level to enhance strategic coordination.
It is necessary to give full play to the role of defense and law enforcement security cooperation mechanisms, resolutely tackle online gambling, telecom fraud and other cross-border crimes, strengthen bilateral and multilateral law enforcement and judicial cooperation, especially within the framework of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, so as to safeguard people’s lives and property and uphold regional peace and stability.
Seize the major opportunities of China’s new quality productive forces and Vietnam’s new productive forces to accelerate the formation of practical cooperation between the two countries. Realize the comprehensive connection of standard-gauge railways, highways, and smart ports at an early date. Promote high-tech cooperation such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. China’s mega market is always open to Vietnam, and the country welcomes more high-quality Vietnamese products. China encourages its companies to invest in Vietnam and hopes that Vietnam will create a more fair and friendly business environment.
Fourth, tighten the bonds of people-to-people ties.
China and Vietnam should take the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity and organize more people-oriented exchange activities, and enhance cooperation in tourism, culture, media, public health and other fields.
The two sides should continue to explore resources of revolutionary heritage and promote stories of friendship. In the next three years, China will invite Vietnamese youth to China for “Red Study Tours,” which will help the younger generation of both countries better understand the hard-won nature of the socialist countries and the great value of China-Vietnam good-neighborliness and friendly cooperation, and will cultivate greater vitality for the development of bilateral relations and the respective national development endeavors.
Fifth, conduct closer multilateral coordination.
China and Vietnam should jointly uphold the outcomes of World War II, firmly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, promote a more equal and orderly multi-polar world and an economic globalization that is more inclusive and beneficial for all, and enhance cooperation under the frameworks of the three major global initiatives.
China will stay committed to the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and to the policy of pursuing friendship and partnership with its neighbors. It will deepen friendly cooperation with neighboring countries so that the fruits of Chinese modernization can better benefit the region.
Sixth, achieve more positive maritime interaction.
The two countries should earnestly implement the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, properly manage maritime issues, expand maritime cooperation, demonstrate resolve in launching joint development, and work toward the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.
For his part, To Lam extended a warm welcome to Xi on his state visit to Vietnam, which took place on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He said that Xi is not only an outstanding leader of the Chinese people but also a great friend of the Vietnamese people.
Xi’s choice to make Vietnam his first overseas destination this year fully reflects the importance he attaches to China-Vietnam relations and his support for Vietnam, the Vietnamese leader said. This visit will mark a new milestone in the history of friendly exchanges between the two parties and countries, further advancing the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he added.
Under Xi’s strong leadership, To Lam noted, China has achieved historic accomplishments in advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics, made comprehensive progress in its path to modernization, and witnessed rapid development of new quality productive forces. With China’s international stature on the rise, Vietnam extends its congratulations and expresses gratitude for China’s long-standing support and assistance, he said.
Emphasizing that both Vietnam and China are socialist countries under the leadership of a communist party, To Lam said that developing relations with China is an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority for Vietnam. Vietnam firmly adheres to the one-China policy, supports China’s efforts toward national reunification, and resolutely opposes any separatist actions aimed at “Taiwan independence,” he said.
Advancing Vietnam-China relations, To Lam noted, is in the fundamental interest of both peoples and conforms with the trend of the times. Vietnam looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges between the two parties and countries, enhancing exchanges on governance experience, deepening strategic security cooperation, and continually consolidating political mutual trust; further elevating bilateral cooperation by creating new highlights in areas such as trade, science and technology, infrastructure and environmental protection; and promoting people-to-people exchanges, encouraging local and youth interactions, and enhancing tourism cooperation to nurture closer bonds between the peoples, he said.
Vietnam supports the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind and the three major global initiatives proposed by Xi, To Lam said. Vietnam lauds the vision set forth during the CPC’s central conference on work related to neighboring countries, which envisions building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home with neighboring countries and insists on fostering friendly, mutually beneficial and prosperous relationships, he said.
Vietnam is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China, uphold multilateralism and the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, safeguard international trade rules, abide by the agreements signed by both sides, and jointly make greater contributions to world peace and human progress, To Lam said, adding that Vietnam is also willing to properly address maritime differences with China to ensure maritime stability.
Before the talks, To Lam invited Xi to a small-group chat over tea. The two general secretaries exchanged views on party building and national governance. Xi stressed that party building is crucial to the destiny of the party and the country, and that the party’s work style bears on whether it can win public support. The CPC Central Committee has decided to carry out an in-depth campaign throughout the party this year to learn and implement the spirit of the eight-point decision on improving work conduct. This is intended to secure new achievements in work style transformation to further support comprehensive reform and advance modernization. Both general secretaries agreed to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning, and pursue progress in socialist development.
After the talks, the two leaders witnessed the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by China and Vietnam. These documents cover areas including connectivity, artificial intelligence, customs inspection and quarantine, agricultural trade, culture and sports, public welfare, human resource development, media, and more.
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, invites Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, to a small chat over tea before their talks at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, and To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, witness the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by the two sides after their talks in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. Xi held talks with To Lam at the CPV Central Committee headquarters on Monday. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, meets with Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man at the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
HANOI, April 14 — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday called on China and Vietnam to march toward modernization hand in hand.
In his meeting with Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man, Xi also urged the two sides to inject more stability and positive energy into the world.
Xi pointed out that his state visit to Vietnam once again allowed him to witness the new achievements in Vietnam’s cause of Doi Moi (reform) and personally experience the profound foundation of China-Vietnam friendship.
At present, China is comprehensively advancing the building of a strong country and the great cause of national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization, and Vietnam will usher in a new era of national rise, Xi said, adding that both sides are at a crucial stage of their respective development and rejuvenation.
Facing an international landscape fraught with changes and turbulence, Xi said, China and Vietnam should strengthen confidence in their paths and systems, enhance solidarity and coordination, continue to build the China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, join hands to march toward modernization, and inject more stability and positive energy into the world.
Xi stressed that both China and Vietnam are socialist countries led by a communist party, and the political direction is crucial to the future of the parties and countries, as well as the success of their causes.
Xi said the top leaders of the two parties and countries should exchange views on bilateral relations and major issues of common concern in a timely manner, continue to build consensus, enhance mutual trust and steer the course steadily, so as to ensure the steady progress of China-Vietnam relations.
It is necessary to maintain exchanges and cooperation between the two parties, legislative bodies and political consultative organizations, and to keep sharing governance experiences, Xi added.
The two sides should take the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity to carry forward the “red gene” and make good use of the revolutionary resources to enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples, especially the young generation, and strengthen the friendly bond between the two countries, Xi added.
Recognizing the frequent exchanges and fruitful cooperation between China’s National People’s Congress and Vietnam’s National Assembly, Xi said the two countries’ legislatures should do more to strengthen traditional friendship, ensure practical cooperation and strengthen multilateral coordination, carry out exchanges on the development of socialist democracy and rule of law, and continuously enrich the substance of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future.
For his part, Tran Thanh Man said that Vietnam and China, connected by mountains and rivers, have forged a sincere friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood” under the careful nurturing of successive leaders of the two parties and countries, and the two sides have maintained long-standing friendly relations.
He said the visit of Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, fully demonstrates the importance attached by the CPC, the country and the Chinese people to Vietnam-China ties.
He said the two general secretaries have provided important strategic guidance on advancing the building of the Vietnam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, which will open a new chapter in bilateral relations.
The Vietnamese National Assembly congratulated China for successfully convening the “two sessions” and looked forward to conducting close communication and cooperation with China’s National People’s Congress, implementing the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and countries, and contributing to the common prosperity and development of the two countries and friendship between the peoples, Tran Thanh Man said.
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, meets with Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Tran Thanh Man at the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brenton Griffin, Casual Lecturer and Tutor in History, Indigenous Studies, and Politics, Flinders University
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced it will build 15 new temples in countries across the world, including one in Liverpool, New South Wales.
This follows a similar announcement last year of plans to build a second temple for Queensland, in South Brisbane.
The two new structures – together with existing temples in Sydney (1984), Adelaide (2000), Melbourne (2000), Perth (2001) and Brisbane (2003) – will bring the total number of Australian temples to seven.
In a nation with fewer than 160,000 practising Mormons, these new buildings seek to increase the legitimacy and visibility of the church.
The Melbourne temple was erected in 2000, as was the temple in Adelaide. Wikimedia
The significance of temples
There are currently at least 200 completed Mormon temples around the globe, with an additional 182 under construction or announced.
Temples have a different purpose and scope to Mormon chapels, which are far more common: Australia has about 190 Mormon chapels.
Chapels are used for weekly sacrament (or communion) and weekly sermons. They are open to visitors, and often hold cultural events, extra church activities and family history centres.
Temples, on the other hand, represent the blending of the divine and temporal. According to the Mormon worldview and doctrines, they are the world’s most sacred structures.
Each temple is emblazoned with the phrase “The House of the Lord, Holiness to the Lord”. This isn’t just symbolic. Mormons believe each temple is literally the house of God, in which his presence may be felt.
Given the gravity of this belief, these spaces are reserved for those who have been deemed worthy to enter by Mormon leaders.
Inside the House of the Lord
The church itself maintains that temples are “sacred, not secret”. It has long worked to dispel speculation over what happens within temple bounds.
One way it does this is through “open houses”, in which a newly-built temple may be toured by anyone for a brief period. Once the open house has ended and the temple has been “dedicated” by a church leader – a process that includes blessing the building and those who will use it – it becomes entirely closed to the public.
Within the temples, the most sacred rituals and knowledge of “the gospel” are imparted upon faithful members. Rituals can be performed for both living people and deceased ancestors. They must never be conducted – or even discussed – outside the sacred temple space.
One of these rituals is baptism and confirmation for the dead by proxy (baptisms for the living are conducted in chapels or other spaces). This provides the deceased individuals “ordinances” that are necessary for salvation, which they did not receive during life.
These baptisms have been controversial at times, with ordinances performed on individuals who were not direct ancestors of Latter-day Saints, including Holocaust victims and historical figures such as Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler. Even prominent Australians such as Ned Kelly, Malcolm Fraser, Neville Bonner and Truganini have allegedly appeared as “baptised” in Mormon records.
The rituals are accompanied by various stages of knowledge progression for attendees. As with the rituals, temple knowledge is not to be discussed outside.
Local opposition
The air of secrecy and exclusivity surrounding Mormon temples has resulted in a flood of negative attention from Australian media, other religious institutions and society at large. News reports from as far back as the early 20th century sought to expose “Mormon temple secrets”.
The first temple, built in Sydney in 1984, was widely protested by community groups and organisations. The building had to be modified by the church before it was eventually approved. A similar situation transpired in Brisbane in the early 2000s.
In other cities, such as Adelaide and Melbourne, temples were not directly protested, but were still critiqued for their lavishness, with the average Australian temple costing around A$8 million in the late 1990s/early 2000s.
Given the cost of living crisis, and contention over the place of religion in contemporary Australia, the two proposed temples will likely also face criticism.
Reputational management
The church’s reputation in Australia has become ever more complicated over the past 20 years, not least due to several controversies.
In 2022 and 2023, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald reported the church was allegedly abusing tax laws, to the amount of hundreds of millions of dollars. This was addressed, but not confirmed or denied, in the November 2022 Senate Estimates by Australian Tax Office Assistant Commissioner Jeremy Hirschhorn, after questioning by Greens Senator David Shoebridge. Accusations of tax evasion have also been made in New Zealand and the United States.
The new Australian temples will be completed under a pall of critiques and accusations around church finances and other controversies. And while they might be briefly open to the public, their doors will just as quickly shut – adding more fuel to the speculation.
Brenton Griffin was raised as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but is no longer a practising member of the church. His current research is focused on the religion’s place in Australian and New Zealand popular culture, politics, and society from the nineteenth century to present.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)
Massachusetts has received more than 181,000 requests for heating assistance so far this fiscal year.
Critically, Massachusetts is still waiting on HHS to release the remaining estimated 10 percent of FY2025 LIHEAP funds.
Text of Letter (PDF)
WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) joins Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) and the entire Massachusetts Congressional delegation – Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Representatives Richard Neal (MA-01), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), and Bill Keating (MA-09)—in writing to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr., on the sudden termination of the federal staff responsible for administering the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and the impacts to Massachusetts families who depend on the program to stay safe, healthy, and housed.
Massachusetts has received more than 181,000 requests for heating assistance so far this fiscal year, with more than 110,000 households already served through March 31. First-time applicants have also surged: more than 27,000 Massachusetts households applied for LIHEAP for the first time this fiscal year, 8 percent more than last year at this point. More than 58 percent of households served so far include at least one elderly member, more than 33 percent include individuals with disabilities, more than 6,500 include a veteran or active-duty military member, and more than 11,500 include young children under age five. Critically, Massachusetts is still waiting on HHS to release the remaining estimated 10 percent of FY2025 LIHEAP funds.
In the letter, the lawmakers write, “Over the past decade, Massachusetts energy prices have risen two to three times more than the national average. This winter alone, rate increases in Massachusetts hit families hard, with some energy bills doubling over the heating season. In Boston, residents face some of the highest heating costs among cities nationwide. This means that many Massachusetts families are struggling to pay their utility bills.”
The lawmakers continue, “Although LIHEAP is structured as a block grant administered primarily by states, federal staff provide essential technical assistance—from calculating the complicated allocation formula and distributing block grant funds, to guiding new state LIHEAP directors, reviewing and approving state plans, and monitoring state program implementation. This is not red tape, it is essential governance. Despite serving more than 5 million households nationwide, the entire federal LIHEAP team consisted of only 25 staff—an example of efficient, high-impact federal support.”
The lawmakers request answers by May 1, 2025, to questions that include:
How does HHS plan to preserve the continuity of LIHEAP operations nationwide?
How does HHS plan to ensure that states such as Massachusetts can timely access the remaining FY2025 LIHEAP funds appropriated by Congress?
With the termination of the LIHEAP staff, who within HHS is now responsible for the program’s operation?
Does HHS intend to restore the terminated positions or provide an equivalent staffing structure before the 2025–2026 heating season begins?
What measures will HHS implement to ensure communications with state program administrators on vendor enrollment, rule changes, and reporting compliance?
Has HHS consulted — formally or informally — with state LIHEAP administrators or community action agencies about these staff terminations, either before or after they occurred?
A copy of the letter is available here.
Congresswoman Pressley has been a leading voice in Congress speaking out against Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s unprecedented assault on our democracy and federal agencies, and she has been a steadfast advocate for protecting the essential services that federal workers and agencies provide.
On April 9, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined the Massachusetts delegation in sending a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding answers after the abrupt shuttering of the entire HHS Regional Office in Boston.
On April 9, 2025, Rep. Pressley led lawmakers in sending a letter to Trump’s trade official demanding he resign from holding multiple positions with clear conflicts of interest that would further harm federal workers.
On March 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Trump’s executive order to end collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal employees.
On March 21, 2025, Rep. Pressley led Massachusetts lawmakers in a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sharply criticizing and demanding answers about the impact of the Musk-Trump Administration’s mass firings of federal workers in Massachusetts.
On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley spoke out against the U.S. Department of Education’s mass layoffs of over 1,300 workers, which effectively guts the agency.
On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley voted against Republicans’ shameful government budget bill, which would harm vulnerable families and provide a blank check for Elon Musk and Donald Trump to continue their unprecedented assault on our democracy. She later issued a statement condemning its final passage in the Senate.
On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined 13 of her colleagues on a letter to the Department of Homeland Security demanding answers and the immediate release of Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil, whose illegal abduction is an attack on his constitutional right to free speech and due process.
On March 4, 2025, Rep. Pressley walked out of the House chamber in protest during Donald Trump’s presidential joint address to Congress.
On March 4, 2025, Rep. Pressley welcomed Claire Bergstresser, an Everett constituent, dedicated public servant, AFGE union member, and former HUD worker who was unjustly terminated as part of Musk and Trump’s assault on federal agencies as her guest to the presidential joint address to Congress.
On February 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley led 85 lawmakers in a letter urging the Office of Special Counsel to immediate reinstate and expand protections for all unfairly fired federal workers.
On February 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined over 200 Democrats in filing an amicus brief defending the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau before a U.S. District Court.
On February 26, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley discussed what true government efficiency looks like and denounced Elon Musk and Donald Trump for utilizing DOGE to gut the essential services that keep people safe, fed, and housed.
On February 25, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley condemned Elon Musk’s abuse of government efficiency through the fraudulent Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
On February 25, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered a floor speech in which she railed against Republicans’ cruel budget resolution that would slash Medicaid by nearly $1 trillion.
On February 20, 2025, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
On February 13, 2025, in a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley emphasized the critical role of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in safeguarding consumers and sharply criticized Donald Trump and Elon Musk for halting the critical work of the agency.
On February 10, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied with Senator Elizabeth Warren, Ranking Member Maxine Waters, and advocates to protest Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s unlawful takeover of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
On February 11, 2025, in a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley criticized the Trump-Musk administration for halting the critical work of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) with crypto scams on the rise.
On February 10, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming the Trump Administration’s harmful cuts to National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding to support hospitals, universities, and research institutions conducting lifesaving research.
On February 10, 2025, as Trump and Musk threaten to dismantle the essential work of the U.S. Department of Education, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful floor speech to affirm the role of public education in American democracy.
On February 6, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful rebuke of Republicans’ efforts to gut diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and eliminate essential services for vulnerable communities.
On February 5, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied outside the U.S. Department of Treasury to protest Elon Musk’s unlawful assault on federal agencies and our democracy.
On January 30, 2025, Rep. Pressley slammed Donald Trump for blaming the tragic plane crash at Reagan National Airport, which killed over 60 people, including some families from Massachusetts, on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
In January 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Trump’s illegal freeze on federal grants and loans and its harmful impact on vulnerable communities.
On January 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered an impassioned floor speech condemning Republicans’ cruel anti-abortion bill that criminalizes providers and denies families care.
On January 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues to reintroduce the Neighbors Not Enemies Act, a bill to repeal an outdated law that has been used to target innocent immigrants without due process rights.
On January 22, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s harmful executive actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
New Zealand and the United States will continue to pursue shared strategic objectives in the Pacific, Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters says. “Our Pacific links with the United States are more important than ever, and this visit to Hawaii has been an excellent opportunity to underline our shared Polynesian heritage and common strategic interests,” Mr Peters says. “New Zealand’s partnership with the United States remains one of our most long-standing and important, particularly when seen in the light of our joint interests in the Pacific and the evolving security environment.” Mr Peters, leading a cross-party New Zealand political delegation to the Pacific, has had engagements in Honolulu with Governor of Hawaii Joshua Green, the Commander of US Indo-Pacific Command Admiral Samuel Paparo, the Interim President of the East-West Center Dr James Scott, as well as Hawaii-based representatives for Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands. “This visit has enabled an important exchange of views on the economic, political and security changes occurring in the Indo-Pacific, and the role that New Zealand can play in working with regional partners to meet common challenges,” Mr Peters says. “We have long advocated for the importance of an active and engaged United States in the Indo-Pacific, and this time in Honolulu allowed us to continue to make that case.” The delegation also commemorated the attack on Pearl Harbour by laying a wreath at the USS Arizona Memorial alongside the Commander of US Pacific Fleet Admiral Stephen Koehler. “It is important to remember those who gave their lives to create a free and open Indo-Pacific, especially in times such as these where the values which we fought for are being challenged.” Hawaii was the second destination on the New Zealand delegation’s ongoing Pacific visit, following Tonga. The delegation now travels to Fiji, then Vanuatu.
The number of marine mammal species in New Zealand classified as Threatened or At Risk has increased from 10 in 2019 to 14 today, with the sperm whale, pygmy blue whale, southern right whale dolphin, goose-beaked whale, and pygmy sperm whale added to the list. Leopard seals were moved from at-risk to migrant.
A ‘Threatened’ species status is given to animals in serious trouble. New Zealand has the highest proportion of threatened indigenous species in the world – more than 4000 native species are currently threatened or at risk of extinction.
Panel lead and DOC Senior Science Advisor, Dr Dave Lundquist, says several species have been shifted to a more threatened conservation status. This includes sperm whales, which were moved from Data Deficient to At Risk – Declining.
“Research published by the University of Otago in 2022 shows a long-term decline in the number of sperm whales seen off Kaikōura during summer,” says Dave Lundquist.
“We don’t yet know if this reflects a broader drop in sperm whale numbers across New Zealand, but the panel has taken a precautionary approach and assumed it could be.”
Thanks to improved population data, eight other marine mammal species previously considered Data Deficient now have updated conservation statuses. This includes pygmy blue whales, now listed as Threatened – Nationally Vulnerable.
The New Zealand sea lion has also been moved to a higher risk category – from Nationally Vulnerable to Threatened – Nationally Endangered. This is due to a smaller estimated number of breeding adults and a faster rate of population decline than previously thought.
“Estimates suggest sea lion numbers could decline by 30–70% over the next 30 years, which is about three generations. Multiple human-caused threats are likely to be contributing to this decline,” says Dave Lundquist.
Bottlenose dolphins are the only species whose status has improved – from Threatened – Nationally Endangered to Threatened – Nationally Vulnerable. However, Dave Lundquist says this change is due to better information, not an actual increase in numbers.
“We previously estimated fewer than 1000 coastal bottlenose dolphins in New Zealand, plus an unknown number of oceanic ones. We now know there are over 1000 oceanic dolphins, which improved the overall status. But coastal populations are still at risk and depend on local conservation efforts to survive.”
Dave Lundquist says the positive takeaway is that when people act to reduce threats and protect nature, it makes a real difference.
“This information is valuable for everyone involved in marine mammal conservation – including iwi, community groups, businesses, fishers, councils and government.
“When we understand the conservation status of marine mammals, we’re all better equipped to make informed decisions to help protect them and their habitats.”
The conservation status of 57 marine mammal types found in New Zealand waters was reviewed by an independent panel of national and international experts. They used the New Zealand Threat Classification System (NZTCS) – a tool that assesses the extinction risk of native species.
NZTCS assessments are reviewed roughly every five years and are based on factors such as population size, trends, and distribution. DOC uses these results to prioritise conservation work, guide resource allocation, and shape policy decisions. The assessments also support collaboration with iwi, researchers, community groups, and others working to protect native species.
The NZTCS is a rule-based system for experts to assess the risk of extinction faced by organisms in Aotearoa New Zealand. The NZTCS is administered by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and complements the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Independent panels of experts assess groups of taxa (for examples, birds, reptiles or marine mammals. Species, subspecies, varieties and forms are collectively known as taxa, singular = taxon), approximately every five years, using criteria of population state, size and trend.
Knowing a species’ risk of extinction provides a basis for setting priorities and making decisions, planning recovery programmes and research, monitoring the effectiveness of management and gaining support for habitat protection. Taxa assessed as ‘Threatened’ face greater risk of extinction because they have small population with greatest rate of decline. Taxa assessed as ‘At Risk’ are not considered Threatened, but they could quickly become so if conservation management reduces, if a new threat arises, or if the declines continue.
The expert panel assessed the conservation status of 57 taxa of whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, fur seals and sea lions.
Thirteen species have changed status since last assessed in 2019. One has a more threatened status, one has a less threatened status, and the remainder are neutral status changes (into and out of the category Data Deficient).
Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), joined by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA-03) and Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), wrote to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem urging the Department to reverse its decision canceling the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure Communities (BRIC) program, which included funding for two major projects in Richmond and Portsmouth, as well as tens of millions in funding for other communities across the Commonwealth.
BRIC was established by Congress through the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 to support state and local governments in reducing risks posed by natural hazards and future disasters. The bipartisan infrastructure law, which Sens. Warner and Kaine supported and saw through final passage, included $1 billion in funding for BRIC projects over five years, including $133 million that has already been provided to applicants.
Through the BRIC program, Virginia had been set to receive tens of millions in funding for critical projects, including $12 million to make improvements to the Richmond Water Treatment Facility and $24 million to enhance the Lake Meade Dam in Portsmouth. However, DHS recently notified applicants that it was terminating the BRIC program and canceling all applications for funding through the BRIC program – including projects that had already been awarded funding.
“We strongly urge you to reverse this decision that will impact vulnerable residents, businesses, and critical infrastructure in Virginia,” the lawmakers wrote to Sec. Noem.
They continued, “BRIC projects support Virginia localities as they work to reduce immediate hazard risks that threaten community safety. For example, the city of Richmond was awarded $11.99 million in FY2022 to address design flaws and degradation at the Richmond Water Treatment Facility. This facility serves 4,721 businesses, 360 public properties, and 780 essential community facilities. The project is intended to protect water treatment and distribution services for those within the facility’s service area, making the plant more resilient to 100-year flood events. Unfortunately, the necessity of this award was made clear earlier this year when the facility experienced a power failure that resulted in loss of water service for residents across the region. If this award is revoked, the region will be more susceptible to future water contaminations and disruptions in water delivery.
The lawmakers highlighted how the cancelation of this funding will impact vulnerable residents, businesses, and critical infrastructure in Virginia, specifically underscoring that these projects are already underway.
Added the members, “The potential revocation of existing BRIC awards is an unanticipated shock to Virginia localities that have budgeted, planned, and in some cases begun work on these crucial projects. The city of Portsmouth received a $24.21 million BRIC award in FY2022 to protect the community’s drinking water supply by enhancing the Lake Meade Dam. The dam, which serves as a critical reservoir for drinking water and supplies residential, commercial, and industrial users in the Hampton Roads area, is at risk of instability and potential overtopping during heavy precipitation events. The project involves strengthening the dam, upgrading spillways, and improving flood protection, all of which serves to protect the more than 80 occupied residential properties and almost 30 businesses within the dam break inundation zone.”
“The mission of the BRIC program is to build more resilient communities to prevent the need for reactive and more costly disaster spending. Terminating this program – and many of the awards made in recent years – will make communities in Virginia less resilient and more vulnerable to disaster events. We urge you to maintain this critical funding for localities in Virginia,” they concluded.
A copy of letter is available here and text is below.
Dear Secretary Noem:
We write regarding the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) recent decision to end the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program and cancel BRIC applications from Fiscal Years (FY) 2020 – 2023. We strongly urge you to reverse this decision that will impact vulnerable residents, businesses, and critical infrastructure in Virginia.
BRIC projects support Virginia localities as they work to reduce immediate hazard risks that threaten community safety. For example, the city of Richmond was awarded $11.99 million in FY2022 to address design flaws and degradation at the Richmond Water Treatment Facility. This facility serves 4,721 businesses, 360 public properties, and 780 essential community facilities. The project is intended to protect water treatment and distribution services for those within the facility’s service area, making the plant more resilient to 100-year flood events. Unfortunately, the necessity of this award was made clear earlier this year when the facility experienced a power failure that resulted in loss of water service for residents across the region. If this award is revoked, the region will be more susceptible to future water contaminations and disruptions in water delivery.
The potential revocation of existing BRIC awards is an unanticipated shock to Virginia localities that have budgeted, planned, and in some cases begun work on these crucial projects. The city of Portsmouth received a $24.21 million BRIC award in FY2022 to protect the community’s drinking water supply by enhancing the Lake Meade Dam. The dam, which serves as a critical reservoir for drinking water and supplies residential, commercial, and industrial users in the Hampton Roads area, is at risk of instability and potential overtopping during heavy precipitation events. The project involves strengthening the dam, upgrading spillways, and improving flood protection, all of which serves to protect the more than 80 occupied residential properties and almost 30 businesses within the dam break inundation zone.
The mission of the BRIC program is to build more resilient communities to prevent the need for reactive and more costly disaster spending. Terminating this program – and many of the awards made in recent years – will make communities in Virginia less resilient and more vulnerable to disaster events. We urge you to maintain this critical funding for localities in Virginia.
Thank you for your attention to this letter. We look forward to your response.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) delivered remarks at a press conference with U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-04) outside of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland following a tour of the facility and a briefing from officials on its missions. Below is a full transcript of his opening remarks:
Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) speaking at a press conference outside of the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.
“Thank you very much, Senator. I had the great privilege of representing Goddard for 42 years, so I’ve been here a while, [and] I know the extraordinary work that goes on here. The extraordinary work that we cannot predict the specific advances that this will make in science and technology and the economic effect that it will have, but we do know from the many past years of NASA that they will occur, even though we may not know the specifics of it. I am pleased to join Glenn Ivey, who now represents this area, but he and I think of Prince George’s County as a unit, not as a single or two units, and we represent them together. And I’m so glad to be on Team Ivey, with respect to Goddard Space Flight Center.
“Let me say, I was a colleague of Bill Nelson. Some of you may remember Senator Nelson. Senator Nelson served in the United States House of Representatives, and I served with him. He then went to the United States Senate, and then he went to space. He was the ‘Senator in Space.’ He came back and he was one of the great proponents, not only of Goddard Space Flight Center, but all of the NASA components. And then, of course, he became the administrator of NASA in the last administration. He heard about this proposal, and here’s what he said: ‘They’re going to run NASA into a very deep ditch if they proceed with this kind of savagery.’ His words, not mine. He went on to say, ‘If you savaged NASA science, you have savaged our entire exploration program. And that will affect the human exploration program as well,’ which was essentially, Senator, what you said.
“We’ve seen, over the last three months, an effort to essentially disassemble American enterprise, American government, and American progress by a group that knew everything about how they were going to do it and do it quickly. But as in this instance, in almost every instance in which they’ve undertaken, they do not know the consequences, and the consequences will be dire, as Senator Nelson said, with respect to Goddard Space Flight Center.
“This center is the envy of one of our greatest competitors: China. This enterprise is going to be critical as we compete with China in science and in space and in technology. To disassemble this, to cut it in half, and Senator Van Hollen made the point that we were going to abandon the investment that’s already been made. Now, let me say what that investment is: $3 billion has gone into the Roman telescope and to look for habitable worlds, Senator. What they’re cutting is $600 million, which is the completion of this program, as Senator Van Hollen said, our budget. What a penny wise and pound foolish that decision would be.
“I am going to urge, Senator Van Hollen’s going to urge, and Glenn Ivey is certainly going to be leading the pack for the Congress not to do this. And I predict that Congress is not going to do this because it makes no economic sense, it makes no competitive sense, [and] it makes no national security sense for them to do this.
“The people who are doing this know the cost of everything and the value of nothing. We need to make sure that America continues to be a leader: a leader in space, a leader in culture, a leader in economics. This center is absolutely critical to be able to make the further investment to complete a project, which, as you said, is on budget, so far on time.
“So, I’m pleased to join my two colleagues, Senator Van Hollen and Congressman Ivey. And we are going to fight this with every fiber in our bodies, because America’s future success and national security depend upon it. Now let me yield to my dear colleague Glenn Ivey, who, while a new Member of Congress as a Member, worked for the Congress for many, many years. He has extraordinary experience in our state and around the country, and he was an extraordinary partner of mine as we represent, not only with Senator Van Hollen and Senator Alsobrooks, our districts, our state, and also the national interest. Congressman Ivey.”
Headline: What North Carolinians Are Hearing: Governor Stein Hits the Ground Running in First 100 Days in Office, Works Toward Bipartisan Goals
What North Carolinians Are Hearing: Governor Stein Hits the Ground Running in First 100 Days in Office, Works Toward Bipartisan Goals lsaito
Raleigh, NC
Last week, Governor Josh Stein marked his 100th full day in office. In the lead-up to his 100th day, Governor Stein spoke to the press about his continued commitment to rebuilding western North Carolina. He also highlighted his ongoing efforts to work across the aisle on the issues that unify North Carolinians: safe communities, strong schools, and meaningful job opportunities for every person.
Read more about Governor Stein’s first 100 days below.
WRAL:‘Extending an olive branch’: Stein, GOP work together toward bipartisan goals
An early sign of Stein’s willingness to work together came as his State of the State speech approached in March…
“It’s going to be a long recovery with incredible devastation in Western North Carolina,” [Speaker Destin] Hall said. “But the folks from that part of the world, where I’m from, need to know that this body — and I believe this governor’s office also — is committed to doing everything we can to get those folks back in their home.”
Asheville Citizen Times:NC governor visits WNC, calls on state, federal governments to do more for Helene recovery
“Look, the people of Western North Carolina are there for each other. They’ve been there for each other from the very beginning. It’s time for their governments to do the same thing.”
Blue Ridge Public Radio:100 days in, Stein talks WNC recovery, wildfires and what’s next
“The number one priority has been trying to help Western North Carolina recover from the lingering and devastating effects of Hurricane Helene. The scale, the magnitude — I don’t have to convince your listeners because they all lived it — but for folks across the state, it’s hard for people to appreciate just how broad the swath of damage was.”
WNCN:Governor Josh Stein talks priorities, first few months in office
He says he’s hit the ground running…working on paying public school teachers more money, raising wages for law enforcement, and adding apprenticeships to the state. “Until we start making all of that progress, I’m never going to be satisfied, my team is never going to be satisfied, we are going to remain laser-focused,” the Governor said.
Carolina Public Press:Stein marks first 100 days with wins — so far. Tough tests are coming.
A point of pride for North Carolina in recent years has been its strong economy and business-friendly environment. Since taking office, Stein has announced the addition of more than 1,600 jobs — primarily in manufacturing — totaling more than $690 million invested into the state by private companies. He wants to continue that trend through a set of initiatives aimed at strengthening North Carolina’s workforce.
WWAY:Gov. Josh Stein reflects on his first 100 days in office
“Our starting teachers are the second lowest-paid in the southeast, that’s an embarrassment and unacceptable. North Carolina should have the highest starting teacher pay in the southeast.”
WCTI:Governor Stein pushes for funding new unit to tackle backlog in sexual assault cold cases
As he marks his 100th day in office on Friday, Stein is advocating for the establishment of a specialized cold case unit within the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) to assist local law enforcement in identifying and apprehending sexual offenders…. “These were cold cases that are now very warm,” Stein said. “Many times we actually have an identified suspect. I want as many dangerous people off the streets so they cannot hurt anyone else.”
The News & Observer:NC Republicans welcome Gov. Josh Stein’s approach so far, but his first test is coming soon
[Stein] said he wants to work together on economic development, education and housing, where he wants to increase the supply of homes.
A federal jury convicted a Nevada man today for participating in a three-year conspiracy to fix the wages for home healthcare nurses in Las Vegas and for fraudulently failing to disclose the criminal antitrust investigation during the sale of his home healthcare staffing company.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Eduardo “Eddie” Lopez of Las Vegas, Nevada conspired to artificially cap the wages of home healthcare nurses in the Las Vegas area between March 2016 and May 2019. The three-year conspiracy affected the wages of hundreds of Las Vegas registered nurses and licensed practical nurses who provide care to patients in their homes. During the pendency of the government’s investigation, Lopez then sold his home healthcare staffing company for over $10 million while fraudulently concealing the government’s criminal investigation from the buyer.
“Wage-fixing agreements are nakedly unlawful attempts at unjustly profiting off American workers,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigal A. Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Today’s verdict highlights what should be a clear message with antitrust crimes: the agreement is the crime. The Antitrust Division will zealously prosecute those who seek to unjustly profit off their employees. The nurses here deserved better and, under President Trump’s leadership, they will be protected.”
Lopez was convicted of one count of participating in a wage-fixing conspiracy and five counts of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 14. A violation of the Sherman Act carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine for individuals. A violation of the wire fraud statute carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office and the FBI’s International Corruption Unit investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada. Senior Litigation Counsel Jeffrey Cramer and Mikal Condon, Assistant Chief Andrew Mast, and Trial Attorneys Paradi Javandel and Conor Bradley, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
A federal jury convicted a Nevada man today for participating in a three-year conspiracy to fix the wages for home healthcare nurses in Las Vegas and for fraudulently failing to disclose the criminal antitrust investigation during the sale of his home healthcare staffing company.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Eduardo “Eddie” Lopez of Las Vegas, Nevada conspired to artificially cap the wages of home healthcare nurses in the Las Vegas area between March 2016 and May 2019. The three-year conspiracy affected the wages of hundreds of Las Vegas registered nurses and licensed practical nurses who provide care to patients in their homes. During the pendency of the government’s investigation, Lopez then sold his home healthcare staffing company for over $10 million while fraudulently concealing the government’s criminal investigation from the buyer.
“Wage-fixing agreements are nakedly unlawful attempts at unjustly profiting off American workers,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigal A. Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Today’s verdict highlights what should be a clear message with antitrust crimes: the agreement is the crime. The Antitrust Division will zealously prosecute those who seek to unjustly profit off their employees. The nurses here deserved better and, under President Trump’s leadership, they will be protected.”
Lopez was convicted of one count of participating in a wage-fixing conspiracy and five counts of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 14. A violation of the Sherman Act carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine for individuals. A violation of the wire fraud statute carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office and the FBI’s International Corruption Unit investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada. Senior Litigation Counsel Jeffrey Cramer and Mikal Condon, Assistant Chief Andrew Mast, and Trial Attorneys Paradi Javandel and Conor Bradley, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
— Next-generation AMD EPYC CPU, codenamed “Venice,” is the first HPC product to be brought up on TSMC’s next-generation N2 node —
SANTA CLARA, Calif., April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMD (NASDAQ: AMD) today announced its next-generation AMD EPYC™ processor, codenamed “Venice,” is the first HPC product in the industry to be taped out and brought up on the TSMC advanced 2nm (N2) process technology. This highlights the strength of AMD and TSMC semiconductor manufacturing partnership to co-optimize new design architectures with leading-edge process technology. It also marks a major step forward in the execution of the AMD data center CPU roadmap, with “Venice” on track to launch next year. AMD also announced the successful bring up and validation of its 5th Gen AMD EPYC™ CPU products at TSMC’s new fabrication facility in Arizona, underscoring its commitment to U.S. manufacturing.
“TSMC has been a key partner for many years and our deep collaboration with their R&D and manufacturing teams has enabled AMD to consistently deliver leadership products that push the limits of high-performance computing,” said Dr. Lisa Su, chair and CEO, AMD. “Being a lead HPC customer for TSMC’s N2 process and for TSMC Arizona Fab 21 are great examples of how we are working closely together to drive innovation and deliver the advanced technologies that will power the future of computing.”
“We are proud to have AMD be a lead HPC customer for our advanced 2nm (N2) process technology and TSMC Arizona fab,” said TSMC Chairman and CEO Dr. C.C. Wei. “By working together, we are driving significant technology scaling resulting in better performance, power efficiency and yields for high-performance silicon. We look forward to continuing to work closely with AMD to enable the next era of computing.”
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About AMD For more than 50 years AMD has driven innovation in high-performance computing, graphics and visualization technologies. Billions of people, leading Fortune 500 businesses and cutting-edge scientific research institutions around the world rely on AMD technology daily to improve how they live, work and play. AMD employees are focused on building leadership high-performance and adaptive products that push the boundaries of what is possible. For more information about how AMD is enabling today and inspiring tomorrow, visit the AMD (NASDAQ: AMD) website, blog, LinkedIn and X pages.
Cautionary Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) such as AMD’s partnership with TSMC; next-generation AMD EPYC™ processors to be taped out and brought up on the TSMC advanced 2nm process technology and being on track to launch next year; AMD’s data center CPU roadmap; and 5th Gen AMD EPYC™ CPU products being planned for shipment later this year, which are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are commonly identified by words such as “would,” “may,” “expects,” “believes,” “plans,” “intends,” “projects” and other terms with similar meaning. Investors are cautioned that the forward-looking statements in this press release are based on current beliefs, assumptions and expectations, speak only as of the date of this press release and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. Such statements are subject to certain known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond AMD’s control, that could cause actual results and other future events to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. Material factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, without limitation, the following: Intel Corporation’s dominance of the microprocessor market and its aggressive business practices; Nvidia’s dominance in the graphics processing unit market and its aggressive business practices; competitive markets in which AMD’s products are sold; the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry; market conditions of the industries in which AMD products are sold; AMD’s ability to introduce products on a timely basis with expected features and performance levels; loss of a significant customer; economic and market uncertainty; quarterly and seasonal sales patterns; AMD’s ability to adequately protect its technology or other intellectual property; unfavorable currency exchange rate fluctuations; ability of third party manufacturers to manufacture AMD’s products on a timely basis in sufficient quantities and using competitive technologies; availability of essential equipment, materials, substrates or manufacturing processes; ability to achieve expected manufacturing yields for AMD’s products; AMD’s ability to generate revenue from its semi-custom SoC products; potential security vulnerabilities; potential security incidents including IT outages, data loss, data breaches and cyberattacks; uncertainties involving the ordering and shipment of AMD’s products; AMD’s reliance on third-party intellectual property to design and introduce new products; AMD’s reliance on third-party companies for design, manufacture and supply of motherboards, software, memory and other computer platform components; AMD’s reliance on Microsoft and other software vendors’ support to design and develop software to run on AMD’s products; AMD’s reliance on third-party distributors and add-in-board partners; impact of modification or interruption of AMD’s internal business processes and information systems; compatibility of AMD’s products with some or all industry-standard software and hardware; costs related to defective products; efficiency of AMD’s supply chain; AMD’s ability to rely on third party supply-chain logistics functions; AMD’s ability to effectively control sales of its products on the gray market; long-term impact of climate change on AMD’s business; impact of government actions and regulations such as export regulations, tariffs and trade protection measures; AMD’s ability to realize its deferred tax assets; potential tax liabilities; current and future claims and litigation; impact of environmental laws, conflict minerals related provisions and other laws or regulations; evolving expectations from governments, investors, customers and other stakeholders regarding corporate responsibility matters; issues related to the responsible use of AI; restrictions imposed by agreements governing AMD’s notes, the guarantees of Xilinx’s notes and the revolving credit agreement; impact of acquisitions, joint ventures and/or strategic investments on AMD’s business and AMD’s ability to integrate acquired businesses, such as ZT Systems; impact of any impairment of the combined company’s assets; political, legal and economic risks and natural disasters; future impairments of technology license purchases; AMD’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; and AMD’s stock price volatility. Investors are urged to review in detail the risks and uncertainties in AMD’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including but not limited to AMD’s most recent reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q.
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