The Justice Department filed a civil complaint today in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas to enjoin John T. Ajuma, aka John Trobisch, from preparing federal tax returns for others.
The complaint alleges Ajuma prepared nearly 11,000 federal income tax returns from 2018 through 2024 through two sole proprietorships named “Destiny Tax Service” and “Momentum Tax Express,” which Ajuma operated from the same location in Hurst, Texas. According to the complaint, in a substantial number of these tax returns, Ajuma significantly overstated customers’ tax refunds by fabricating or inflating unreimbursed employee expense deductions, falsifying child tax credits by reporting bogus child and dependent care expenses and falsely claiming energy, education and other credits to which customers were not entitled.
By repeatedly understating customers’ tax liabilities, the complaint alleges that Ajuma may have caused the United States harm of almost $20 million in lost tax revenue from 2018 through 2022.
Deputy Assistant Attorney General David A. Hubbert of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.
Taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant against unscrupulous tax preparers. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. The IRS also offers guidance on the credentials and qualifications that taxpayers should seek from their return preparer.
In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
The Department of Commerce (DoC) has focused on empowering exporters, streamlining processes, and promoting economic growth through innovative solutions during the first 100 days of this Government. These achievements underscore the. Below are some of the key highlights:
1. Empowering Exporters through Trade Connect e-Platform The launch of a comprehensive Trade Connect e-Platform has connected over 6 lakh IEC holders, 185 Indian Mission officials, and over 600 Export Promotion Council members with Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)/DoC offices and banks. This digital initiative enhances the ease of doing business for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by providing them with information and guidance, fostering a more seamless and transparent export ecosystem.
2. Enhanced Insurance Cover for MSME Exporters To boost exports, the government has introduced enhanced insurance cover for MSME exporters, which is expected to provide credit worth ₹20,000 crore at lower costs. This initiative will make Indian exports more competitive, benefitting around 10,000 exporters.
3. Reducing Compliance Burden through Self-Certified Electronic Bank Realisation Certificate (eBRC) system The introduction of a self-certified electronic Bank Realisation Certificate system has significantly reduced compliance costs for exporters. Previously costing between ₹500-₹1,500 per eBRC, this system now saves exporters over ₹125 crore and simplifies the process for claiming benefits and refunds. This paperless system also aligns with the government’s broader goals of promoting a digital, eco-friendly economy, cutting down both administrative and environmental expenses.
The bulk generation and Application Programming Interface (API) integration of eBRCs significantly reduce time and effort, streamlining the process for exporters and stakeholders. This system is particularly beneficial for small exporters, especially in e-commerce, as it efficiently handles high-volume, low-cost transactions. As a result, it enables them to claim benefits and refunds more effectively, supporting their growth and participation in international trade.
4. Connecting SME Exporters to the World through E-Commerce Export Hub (ECEH) The launch of the E-Commerce Export Hub (ECEH) is poised to revolutionize India’s cross-border e-commerce ecosystem, with projections indicating a potential export value of USD 100 billion by 2030. ECEHs will provide artisans, SMEs, and One District One Product (ODOP) producers easy access to global markets, reduce costs and simplify logistics.
These hubs will boost employment opportunities in transport, warehousing, and quality assurance. Linking Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, as well as rural areas, with the global marketplace ECEH will play a significant role in driving the digital transformation of these regions. This connection will enable smaller cities to access broader opportunities in international trade, fostering economic growth and inclusion.
5. Reducing Transaction Costs for MSMEs on GeM Portal
To promote greater MSME participation in the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), the number of pricing slabs has been reduced, making it easier for vendors to understand and comply with. New cap on charges ensures greater affordability for high-value transactions as Orders above ₹10 Crore will now pay a flat fee of ₹3 Lakh, a massive reduction from the transaction charges previously capped at ₹72.5 lakh.
6. Bharat Mart in Dubai
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Department of Commerce has facilitated the establishment of Bharat Mart in Dubai. This hub will provide Indian MSMEs cost-efficient access to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), African, and CIS markets, thereby boosting India’s exports to these regions.
7. Eliminating Human Interface through Jansunwai
The government has further enhanced ease of doing business by launching Jansunwai, a platform that facilitates smooth communication eliminating intermediaries and providing direct communication between stakeholders and the Department. This fosters transparency and saves businesses time and effort, reducing the need for physical office visits.
8. Strengthening the Organic Regulatory Ecosystem
A revamped National Programme of Organic Production (NPOP) is set to benefit approximately 20 lakh farmers from 5,000 grower groups through enhanced export opportunities. With a focus on improving certification standards, organic exports are expected to surpass USD 1 billion by 2025-26.
9. Pradhan Mantri Cha Shramik Protsahan Yojana (PMCSPY)
Under this initiative, more than 10 lakh workers across 1,210 tea gardens in Assam and West Bengal will have access to better healthcare, education, and resting shed facilities. This marks a major step toward improving the quality of life for tea garden workers and their families.
10. Rollout of ICEGATE Across All Non-IT/ITES SEZs
The ICEGATE portal has been expanded to cover all non-IT/ITES SEZ units, enabling them to apply for benefits under the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme. This move enhances ease of doing business, offering 24×7 helpdesk support to SEZ units and ensuring more seamless trading operations.
These transformative initiatives reaffirm the government’s commitment to expanding India’s global trade footprint while ensuring the development and welfare of its people. With the continued efforts of the Department of Commerce, India is well on its way to becoming a global economic powerhouse by 2047.
A federal jury in North Carolina convicted a man today for his role in orchestrating a years-long telemarketing scheme that defrauded victims in the United States from a call center in Costa Rica.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Roger Roger, 40, of Costa Rica, led a fraudulent telemarketing scheme in which co-conspirators, who falsely posed as U.S. government officials, contacted victims in the United States to tell them that that they had won a substantial “sweepstakes” prize. After convincing victims, many of whom were elderly, that they stood to receive a significant financial prize, the co-conspirators told victims that they needed to make a series of up-front payments before collecting their supposed prize, purportedly for items such as taxes, customs duties, and other fees. Co-conspirators used a variety of means to conceal their true identities, including Voice over Internet Protocol technology, which made it appear as though they were calling from Washington, D.C., and other locations in the United States. Roger personally called victims from Costa Rica, using fake names and documents to trick the victims into believing they had won a sweepstakes prize. He also recruited and directed co-conspirators to mislead victims on the phone and to transmit victims’ payments from the United States to Costa Rica. The evidence at trial showed that Roger and his co-conspirators stole over $4 million from victims.
Roger was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, four counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and two counts of international money laundering. The defendant faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison on each of the conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and the wire fraud counts, because the jury found that these counts involved telemarketing that victimized at least 10 people over the age of 55, and 20 years in prison on each of the conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering counts. Sentencing will occur at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Dena J. King for the Western District of North Carolina; Inspector in Charge Tommy Coke of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Atlanta Division; Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Cincinnati Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Robert DeWitt of the FBI Charlotte Field Office made the announcement.
The USPIS Atlanta Division, IRS-CI Cincinnati Field Office, and FBI Charlotte Field Office investigated the case. The La Grande, Oregon Police Department and Union County District Attorney Victim Assistance Office provided valuable assistance. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Costa Rica to secure Roger’s arrest and extradition.
Trial Attorneys Andrew Jaco and Amanda Fretto Lingwood of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud, and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed 7 days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
NEW YORK, Sept. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Trustees of Tidal ETF Trust (the “Trust”) has approved a reverse stock split of the issued and outstanding shares of the SoFi Select 500 ETF (NYSE Arca: SFY) (the “Fund”). The reverse split will take effect after the close of trading on the NYSE Arca, Inc. (the “Exchange”) on October 1, 2024.
Following the reverse stock split, every five shares of the Fund will be consolidated into one share, effectively decreasing the total number of issued and outstanding shares by approximately 80%. The per-share net asset value (NAV) and the opening market price will increase proportionally by five times on the following trading day.
Details of the Reverse Stock Split:
Reverse Split Ratio: 1:5
Approximate Decrease in Total Outstanding Shares: 80%
Additionally, the Fund’s CUSIP number will change as follows, effective after the close of the market on the Effective Date:
Old CUSIP
New CUSIP
886364207
886364173
Impact on Shareholders
The reverse stock split will not alter the overall value of a shareholder’s investment. The value of an investor’s holdings in the Fund remains unchanged, even though the number of shares will decrease, and the per-share price will increase:
Shares of the Fund will begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on the Exchange on October 2, 2024.
Redemption of Fractional Shares and Tax Implications
In cases where shareholders hold fractional shares following the reverse split, the Fund will redeem those fractional shares for cash at the Fund’s split-adjusted NAV on the Effective Date. This redemption could result in tax consequences, with shareholders potentially recognizing gains or losses based on the redemption of fractional shares. However, apart from this, the reverse split will not be a taxable event for shareholders, and no transaction fees will be charged for the redemption of fractional shares.
About Tidal Financial Group
Formed by ETF industry pioneers and thought leaders, Tidal Financial Group set out to revolutionize the way ETFs have historically been developed, launched, managed, marketed, and sold. With a focus on growing AUM, Tidal offers a comprehensive suite of services, proprietary tools, and methodologies designed to bring clients ideas to market. Tidal is an advocate for ETF innovation and is on a mission to provide issuers with the intelligence and tools needed to effectively launch ETFs and optimize growth potential in a highly competitive space. As of September 1, 2024, Tidal managed 172 funds with over $19 billion in AUM.
SoFi’s mission is to empower individuals to achieve financial independence and fulfill their ambitions. Financial independence isn’t just about being wealthy; it’s about having your money work for the life you want to live. Everything SoFi does is focused on helping people take control of their finances. SoFi is always innovating and creating solutions that provide the tools and resources needed for them to reach their goals.
Before investing you should carefully consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This and other information is in the prospectus. A prospectus may be obtained by visiting www.sofi.com. Please read the prospectus carefully before you invest.
Investing involves risk including loss of principal. Please visit each fund’s page for specific fund risks.
SoFi ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iBio, Inc. (NYSEA:IBIO), an AI-driven innovator of precision antibody immunotherapies, today announced its financial results for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, and provided a corporate update.
“Our fiscal year 2024 was a transformational year for iBio, as we’ve solidified our business and financial position as a next-generation antibody company with a machine-learning-enabled platform for designing and developing difficult-to-drug therapeutics,” said CEO and Chief Scientific Officer Martin Brenner, Ph.D., DVM. “We made significant progress entering the fast-growing cardiometabolic and obesity space with our collaboration with AstralBio and strengthened our financial position by eliminating our debt associated with the facility and closing a fully subscribed financing including participation from Ikarian Capital, Lynx1 Capital Management, ADAR1 Capital Management, and other institutional and accredited investors. We continued to build our drug discovery platform, adding innovative technologies that are helping to advance our pipeline and provide critical support to our biopharma partners with best-in-class antibody discovery and development projects.”
Business Developments:
Expanded the AI-powered technology stack with the launch of ShieldTx™, a patent-pending antibody masking technology designed to enable specific, highly targeted antibody delivery to diseased tissue without harming healthy tissue.
In February, iBio closed the sale of its early-stage PD-1 asset to Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. for $1MM in upfront cash with contingent downstream payments of up to $52.5MM, a pivotal moment that showcased the power of iBio’s platform to discover best-in-class assets.
Added bispecific capabilities with its EngageTx™ technology. We advanced a Trop2 x CD3 molecule to clinical candidate selection stage by demonstrating in a humanized mouse model of squamous cell carcinoma, a significant 36 percent reduction in tumor size 14 days after tumor implantation and after a single dose. Additionally, we leveraged our EngageTx technology and Epitope Steering technology to successfully develop multiple MUC16 x CD3 molecules, which show potent cell killing against ovarian cancer cells.
Entered into a collaboration with AstralBio, Inc. to provide an exclusive license in the cardiometabolic and obesity space. iBio will develop four targets of interest with rights to license up to three of these targets prior to entering the clinic.
Corporate Developments:
At the Company’s Special Meeting of Stockholders held on November 27, 2023, iBio’s stockholders authorized a reverse stock split, with a ratio ranging from 1-for-5 to 1-for-20 (the “Range”), with the ratio within such Range to be determined at the discretion of the Board of Directors (the “Board”), and thereafter the Board approved a one for twenty (1-for-20) reverse stock split of the Company’s shares of common stock. The reverse stock split was effective November 29, 2023.
Entered into a best-efforts public offering with investors in the fiscal second quarter for gross proceeds of approximately $4.5MM before deducting placement agent fees and offering expenses
Entered into a securities purchase agreement for a private investment in public equity financing with several institutional investors and an accredited investor in the fiscal third quarter and consummated the financing in the fiscal fourth quarter for gross proceeds of approximately $15.0MM before deducting placement agent fees and offering expenses.
During the third and fourth quarters, strengthened the Company’s cash position after previously issued warrants were exercised for proceeds of approximately $4.5MM.
The Company closed the sale of its manufacturing facility located in Bryan, Texas (the “Property”) to the Board of Regents of the Texas A&M University System for $8.5MM. Following the issuance of pre-funded warrants having a value of $4.5MM to the lender, Woodforest National Bank, iBio and its wholly owned subsidiary, iBio CDMO LLC, satisfied all of the conditions of the settlement agreement releasing the Company and its subsidiary of all obligations with respect to the debt secured by the Property, which coupled with the release of approximately $915K in restricted cash previously held by Woodforest, eliminated approximately $13.2MM in secured debt from the Company’s balance sheet.
Strengthened its Board of Directors and executive leadership team through the appointments of Dr. Brenner to the Board of Directors, effective June 1, 2024, and Kristi Sarno as Senior Vice President, Business Development, effective August 8, 2024.
“We ended this fiscal year well-positioned to advance our technology to drive value for patients and shareholders,” said Chief Financial Officer Felipe Duran. “We strengthened our balance sheet through capital raises and debt extinguishment. In fiscal year 2024, we executed transactions which brought in non-dilutive funding, and we continue to pursue business development projects to strengthen our financial position.”
Financial Results:
Revenues for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, were approximately $0.2 million, an increase of 100% over fiscal 2023.
R&D and G&A expenses for fiscal 2024 decreased $5.1 million and $7.3 million, respectively, over the comparable period in fiscal 2023. The decrease in R&D and G&A reflects the Company’s cost savings implemented to support its growing investments in its pipeline, platform technologies, employees, and related infrastructure.
iBio’s consolidated net loss for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, was $24.9 million, a decreased loss of $40.1 million compared to 2023 primarily because of the decrease in expenses related to the Company’s discontinued operations and cost saving initiatives.
iBio held cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash of $14.4 million as of June 30, 2024.
As disclosed in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, which was filed on September 20, 2024 with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the audited financial statements contained an audit opinion from its registered public accounting firm that includes an explanatory paragraph related to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. See further discussion in footnote 2 to the Company’s financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K. This announcement is made pursuant to NYSE American LLC Company Guide Sections 401(h) and 610(b), which requires public announcement of the receipt of an audit opinion containing a going concern paragraph.
About iBio, Inc.
iBio is an AI-driven innovator that develops next-generation biopharmaceuticals using computational biology and 3D-modeling of subdominant and conformational epitopes, prospectively enabling the discovery of new antibody treatments for hard-to-target cancers, and other diseases. iBio’s mission is to decrease drug failures, shorten drug development timelines, and open up new frontiers against the most promising targets. For more information, visit www.ibioinc.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “continue,” “predict,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “intend” or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions and include statements such as ending the fiscal year being well-positioned to advance the Company’s technology to drive value for patients and shareholders; and continuing to pursue business development projects to strengthen the Company’s financial position. While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations and assumptions from those set forth or implied by any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, among others, the Company’s ability to successfully advance its technology and continue to pursue business development projects to strengthen the Company’s financial position; its ability to obtain regulatory approvals for commercialization of its product candidates, or to comply with ongoing regulatory requirements; regulatory limitations relating to its ability to promote or commercialize its product candidates for specific indications; acceptance of its product candidates in the marketplace and the successful development, marketing or sale of products; the continued maintenance and growth of its patent estate; its ability to establish and maintain collaborations and attract and increase partnership opportunities; competition; the substantial doubt exists related to the Company’s ability to operate as a going concern; its ability to raise additional capital in order to fully execute the Company’s longer-term business plans and the other factors discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2024. The information in this release is provided only as of the date of this release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release on account of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.
iBio, Inc. and Subsidiaries Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss (In Thousands, except per share amounts)
Years Ended
June 30,
2024
2023
Revenues
$
225
$
—
Operating expenses:
Research and development
5,185
10,327
General and administrative
11,674
19,016
Total operating expenses
16,859
29,343
Operating loss
(16,634
)
(29,343
)
Other income (expense):
Interest expense
(172
)
(83
)
Interest income
363
213
Loss on sales of debt securities
—
(98
)
Gain on sale of intellectual property
1,000
—
Total other income
1,191
32
Net loss from continuing operations
(15,443
)
(29,311
)
Loss from discontinued operations
(9,464
)
(35,699
)
Net loss
$
(24,907
)
$
(65,010
)
Comprehensive loss:
Consolidated net loss
$
(24,907
)
$
(65,010
)
Other comprehensive loss – unrealized gain on debt securities
—
180
Other comprehensive income – foreign currency adjustment
—
33
Comprehensive loss
$
(24,907
)
$
(64,797
)
Loss per common share attributable to iBio, Inc. stockholders – basic and diluted – continuing operations
$
(4.03
)
$
(47.88
)
Loss per common share attributable to iBio, Inc. stockholders – basic and diluted – discontinued operations
$
(2.47
)
$
(58.31
)
Loss per common share attributable to iBio, Inc. stockholders – basic and diluted – total
$
(6.50
)
$
(106.19
)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding – basic and diluted
3,831
612
iBio, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets (In Thousands, except share and per share amounts)
June 30, 2024
June 30, 2023
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
14,210
$
4,301
Restricted cash
—
3,025
Subscription receivable
—
204
Promissory note receivable and accrued interest
713
—
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
749
664
Current assets held for sale (see Note 3 – Discontinued Operations)
—
18,065
Total Current Assets
15,672
26,259
Restricted cash
215
253
Promissory note receivable
1,081
1,706
Finance lease right-of-use assets, net of accumulated amortization
339
610
Operating lease right-of-use asset
2,401
2,722
Fixed assets, net of accumulated depreciation
3,632
4,219
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization
5,368
5,388
Security deposits
26
50
Total Assets
$
28,734
$
41,207
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable
$
358
$
1,849
Accrued expenses
2,028
4,561
Finance lease obligations – current portion
299
272
Operating lease obligation – current portion
436
389
Equipment financing payable – current portion
178
160
Term promissory note – current portion
218
—
Insurance premium financing payable
123
—
Term note payable – net of deferred financing costs
—
12,937
Contract liabilities
200
—
Current liabilities related to assets held for sale
—
1,941
Total Current Liabilities
3,840
22,109
Finance lease obligations – net of current portion
53
351
Operating lease obligation – net of current portion
2,688
3,125
Equipment financing payable – net of current portion
63
241
Term promissory note – net of current portion
766
—
Total Liabilities
7,410
25,826
Stockholders’ Equity
Series 2022 Convertible Preferred Stock – $0.001 par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized at June 30, 2024 and June 30, 2023; 0 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2024 and June 30, 2023
—
—
Common stock – $0.001 par value; 275,000,000 shares authorized at June 30, 2024 and June 30, 2023; 8,623,676 and 1,015,505 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2024 and June 30, 2023, respectively
WASHINGTON — On Friday, six public-interest, media-reform, media-justice, and labor organizations joined to file an amicus curiae brief defending the Federal Communications Commission’s broadcast ownership rules against an industry challenge in the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.
The six groups are Common Cause, the Communications Workers of America-National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians, Free Press, the Future of Music Coalition, the musicFIRST Coalition, and the United Church of Christ Office of Communication, Inc. (“UCC Media Justice”). All of these entities have long participated in FCC proceedings and court cases on this issue. Attorneys Cheryl Leanza and Rachel Stillwell authored and filed the brief on the groups’ behalf.
The FCC’s media-ownership rules are designed to promote competition, viewpoint diversity, ownership diversity, and the delivery of local content by broadcast stations licensed to serve communities all across the United States. A series of deregulatory decisions the agency has made over the last two decades has significantly pared back these rules. The FCC undergoes a congressionally mandated review of these regulations every four years.
Prior legal challenges from both industry groups and public-interest organizations have played out in the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. This time, the broadcast industry brought its suit in a different circuit. Broadcasting conglomerates and the trade groups representing them argue that the Biden FCC should eliminate more of the few ownership limits that remain on the books.
As today’s amicus brief explains, broadcast lobbyists suggest that their businesses should no longer be regulated because people already have access to the same kinds of content on the internet. The broadcasters’ assertion, the brief says, would “leave out of the picture the many Americans who do not fit their vision of a life lived completely online, consuming only national news and culture.” As the filing notes, millions of people in the United States still need to or choose to rely primarily on free broadcasting services for local news, cultural content, and emergency information that broadcast outlets distribute more reliably than internet sources.
Free Press Vice President of Policy and General Counsel Matt Wood said:
“As always, the broadcast industry wants to have its cake and eat it too. Lawyers for giant media conglomerates argue that free and over-the-air local broadcasting remains a unique and special service, yet also insist that their industry should be completely unfettered from any common-sense ownership limits because of competition from internet sources. They can’t have it both ways. For broadcasting to remain a source of diverse and truly local content—serving populations that national and homogenized news sources so often ignore—the Federal Communications Commission must retain its rules preventing a single company from dominating the airwaves or owning quite literally every broadcast outlet in the same city.”
United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry Policy Advisor Cheryl Leanza said:
“Broadcast media is unique: Local television engenders more trust, more local news, and thus more local engagement on everything from elections to community needs. Local radio is an important means to preserve and enliven local culture. Previous FCC decisions permitting vast consolidation have been disastrous—for the court to reverse the most recent FCC decision to keep the remaining rules and close loopholes would be even more so. In line with multiple other federal court decisions, the Eighth Circuit should reject any hint that each iteration of the quadrennial-review process mandates further consolidation.”
Common Cause Director for Media and Democracy Ishan Mehta said:
“In this era of media consolidation, we need local television and radio stations to provide a much-needed avenue for the public to hear diverse voices as they seek to make informed decisions at the ballot box. When media outlets are owned by a small number of corporations, it narrows the available perspectives and stifles the investigative journalism that our democracy depends on. We ask the court to preserve the FCC’s role in protecting diversity and furthering competition to ensure a healthy media ecosystem for all Americans.”
NABET-CWA President Charlie Braico said:
“Locally owned broadcast television and radio stations and the jobs they create are critical to the well-being of our communities. Consolidation in the media industry and Wall Street’s downsizing and stripping of local news operations for profits, along with the ‘narrowcasting” of information on the internet, has left Americans more isolated and divided than ever. The FCC’s ability to enforce local broadcast ownership rules is critical to preventing further harm.”
Future of Music Coalition Director Kevin Erickson said:
“Radio is a medium uniquely equipped to uplift the voices of diverse local communities expressed through diverse American musical traditions. Sadly, as we’ve seen over the years, ownership consolidation has empowered large companies and private equity firms to move away from the live and local emphasis that makes AM/FM radio special, replacing regional character with narrow formats and repetitive playlists presented by robots. We’re proud to join with a diverse array of groups in defending the FCC’s important role in protecting ownership diversity and healthy competition.”
###
About CWA: The Communications Workers of America represents working people in telecommunications, customer service, media, airlines, health care, public service and education, manufacturing, tech, and other fields.
After five days of trial, a federal jury convicted Richard Bhoolai, 65, of Cincinnati, today for failing to pay taxes he withheld from employees’ wages at three restaurants he owned and operated.
According to evidence presented at trial, Bhoolai owned and operated Richie’s Fast Food Restaurants Inc., an S-Corporation used to operate three fried chicken restaurants in the Cincinnati area since 1991. Bhoolai was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and income taxes from employees’ wages and paying those funds over to the IRS. Bhoolai employed between 22 and 34 employees between at least 2017 and 2018. During that time, he withheld taxes from employees’ wages but did not pay them over to the IRS. Prior to that time, Bhoolai had not paid over such taxes from earlier years and the IRS had assessed a penalty against him for failing to do so. Instead of paying over the taxes, Bhoolai used money from the businesses for his personal benefit, including gambling.
The jury found Bhoolai guilty of eight counts of failing to pay over taxes for four quarters in 2017 and four quarters in 2018. Bhoolai’s sentencing date has not yet been set. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each failure to pay taxes count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. District Judge Douglas R. Cole for the Southern District of Ohio presided over the jury trial.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Parker for the Southern District of Ohio made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Alexandra K. Fleszar of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ebunoluwa Taiwo for the Southern District of Ohio prosecuted the case.
After five days of trial, a federal jury convicted Richard Bhoolai, 65, of Cincinnati, today for failing to pay taxes he withheld from employees’ wages at three restaurants he owned and operated.
According to evidence presented at trial, Bhoolai owned and operated Richie’s Fast Food Restaurants Inc., an S-Corporation used to operate three fried chicken restaurants in the Cincinnati area since 1991. Bhoolai was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and income taxes from employees’ wages and paying those funds over to the IRS. Bhoolai employed between 22 and 34 employees between at least 2017 and 2018. During that time, he withheld taxes from employees’ wages but did not pay them over to the IRS. Prior to that time, Bhoolai had not paid over such taxes from earlier years and the IRS had assessed a penalty against him for failing to do so. Instead of paying over the taxes, Bhoolai used money from the businesses for his personal benefit, including gambling.
The jury found Bhoolai guilty of eight counts of failing to pay over taxes for four quarters in 2017 and four quarters in 2018. Bhoolai’s sentencing date has not yet been set. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each failure to pay taxes count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. District Judge Douglas R. Cole for the Southern District of Ohio presided over the jury trial.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Parker for the Southern District of Ohio made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Alexandra K. Fleszar of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ebunoluwa Taiwo for the Southern District of Ohio prosecuted the case.
AURORA — Today, Governor Polis and the Department of Agriculture announced a new tax credit for Colorado’s small food retailers and small family farms to help increase access to healthy groceries in communities across the state.
Eligible businesses who have made equipment purchases for the purpose of expanding access to healthy food for low access populations can apply for the refundable income tax credit for eligible equipment purchases. Starting this year, up to $10 million per year is available to help small businesses that fit the criteria. The Community Food Access Tax Credit will continue through 2030.
“Colorado is the proud home to the best produce and food in the world, and this new support will increase access to healthy food and decrease the cost of groceries, especially in underserved rural and urban areas. It will also support small farms and food retailers that put food on the table for millions of people here in Colorado and around the world,” said Governor Jared Polis.
“Both rural and urban communities across Colorado experience lack of access to freshly harvested or grown food. This refundable tax credit program will help small food retailers and small farms bring healthy food to communities with low access to fresh, nutritious food,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. “Small businesses will be able to get back 75 percent or more of the cost of expensive equipment necessary to provide fresh produce, meat, and dairy products to communities across Colorado.”
The Community Food Access Tax Credit is intended to increase access to healthy groceries and help to lower their cost. Communities with low access to fresh and healthy food can be found across the state. These tax credits, funded through House Bill 23-1008, will build on the success of the Community Food Access Grants, which were created through House Bill 22-1380, signed by Governor Polis. These grants help stores, farm stands, farmers markets, and farms purchase equipment or cover operating expenses that would allow them to increase the availability of healthy food. To date, 117 grants have been awarded in 42 Colorado counties. Of those, 45 percent of awarded businesses self-identified as BIPOC led, and 58 percent were located in rural Colorado. A total of $5 million in grants has been awarded.
Kusi Appiah, owner of Ghana International Market in Aurora, received a Community Food Access Grant to purchase new refrigeration equipment for his store.
“My retail store is an African International grocery retail store that serves mostly low-income population including mostly refugees, Caribbeans, other international [people] residing in Aurora, East Colfax Neighborhood,” Appiah said. “I would not have been able to afford this freezer or this cooler without the grant funds. I am already seeing an impact on my electricity bill.”
The improved and expanded cold storage at Ghana International Market will allow for better storage of healthy food like eggplant, cucumbers, tomatoes, spinach, fish and meat. It will also result in lower prices due to the savings from more energy-efficient equipment.
The Community Food Access Tax Credit is intended to be used by small food retailers, farm-direct operations, and small family farms who are serving low-income, low-access communities in Colorado. Examples of such businesses include:
Grocery, corner and convenience stores
Carnicerías, bodegas, or mercantiles
Farmers’ markets, farm stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSAs)
Small farms, ranches, dairies, poultry farms, etc.
The tax credit is available for costly equipment purchases that will increase access to or lower prices for healthy foods in low-income, low-access areas. Businesses can receive tax credits for items such as cold storage, food preservation equipment, shelving and displays, delivery vehicles, and more. Non-eligible expenses include things such as office supplies, food and product costs, installation costs, or salaries.
Coloradans can learn more about the tax credit program by attending a virtual presentation:
September 27, from 12 pm – 1 pm
Spanish-only presentation on October 1, from 1 pm to 2 pm
Anyone interested in attending can register on theCommunity Food Access website.
Reducing food insecurity has been one of the strategic priorities CDA has focused on over the past several years, in partnership with other state agencies and food access nonprofits. This tax credit program is operated by the Community Food Access team at CDA, which has helped improve the infrastructure for small retailers and small farmers to bring fresh food to their communities through a grant program.
More about Community Food Access grants The Small Food Business Recovery and Resilience grants were established through House Bill 22-1380. The final round of funding was just awarded in the program. You can review the map identifying grant recipients on the Small Food Business Recovery and Resilience website.
To qualify for the Community Food Access grants, stores, farm stands, farmers markets, and farms submitted proposals to purchase equipment or cover operating expenses that would allow them to increase the availability of healthy food for sale in low income, low access communities.
Through a competitive grant process, 117 applications were selected to be awarded in 42 Colorado counties. Of those, 45 percent of awarded businesses self-identified as BIPOC led, and 58 percent were located in rural Colorado. A total of $5 million in grants has been awarded.
The application and selection process was developed with the guidance of the Small Food Business Recovery and Resilience Grant Advisory Committee, made up of farmers, retailers, as well as financing and food justice experts. The program also hosted three public listening sessions to gain insight on the program’s development.
“The success of this grant program can really be attributed to the great number of stakeholders who engaged with its development and conception,” said Amanda Laban, Markets Division Director at CDA.
To educate Colorado’s eligible businesses about the grant, CDA contracted with seven grassroots organizations across the state to help businesses learn about and apply for the grant. The application was offered in English, Spanish and any other language by request to encourage diverse businesses to apply.
“Technical assistance from trusted local organizations was an essential part of reaching retailers in communities that would benefit from this grant the most,” said Mickey Davis, Community Food Access Program Manager. “Without the help of our partners, these small businesses may never have known about this opportunity, or may have been too intimidated to apply.”
The grant – which had a maximum award value of $50k and an average amount of $43,000 – is already making a big impact in Colorado communities.
The Community Food Access program is funded by the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)
American Workers Lose at Least $50 Billion Annually to Wage Theft
Read the Bill Here
Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today joined Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), and Jill Tokuda (HI-02) in introducing the ‘Don’t Stand for Taking Employed American’s Livings (Don’t STEAL) Act.’ This legislation would make wage theft a federal felony, ensuring that these protections are in place for workers anywhere in the country.
“It is absolutely unacceptable for any employer to take advantage of their employees,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “American workers built the middle class, and the middle class built the foundation of this great nation. It is critical that Congress continue to stand alongside American workers in making sure they are simply paid for the work they do.”
Wage theft costs American workers at least $50 billion per year – far more than the value of all robberies, burglaries, and motor vehicle thefts combined.
While the vast majority of employers treat their workers fairly, a small number of bad actors often pay their workers less than promised, deny workers overtime, or steal tips. Wage theft disproportionately impacts low-wage workers, women and people of color. It harms local economies and reduces tax revenues.
Current federal laws on wage theft give bad actors a slap on the wrist for stealing their employees’ wages, and don’t adequately serve as a deterrent.
The ‘Don’t STEAL Act’ updates the penalties for wage theft violations to be commensurate with other forms of criminal theft under federal law:
Under this legislation, employers who willfully fail to pay their employees the wages they are owed, fail to compensate their employees for overtime work, or steal tips will face a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the crime. Under current law, employers who commit wage theft at most face a misdemeanor.
These changes will bring the penalties for wage theft to parity with other common forms of theft under federal law. Under current law, an employer who commits willful wage theft can be criminally fined no more than $10,000, but this bill would remove that cap and require bad actor employers to be fined in proportion to wages stolen.
This legislation is endorsed by AFL-CIO; Center for American Progress; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW); International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT); International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC); International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC); International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT); Laborers International Union of North American (LiUNA); North America’s Building Trades Union (NABTU); North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (NASRCC); Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association (OPCMIA); Public Citizen; Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, Transportation Workers International Association (SMART); United Association Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders, and Service Techs (UA); United Auto Workers (UAW); and United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).
Congressman Dan Goldman has worked throughout his first term to fight for the rights of all workers.
In June of 2023, Goldman cosponsored the ‘Job Protection Act’ to expand the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to protect millions of workers who are currently unable to take time off to care for themselves or their families. Gaps in FMLA coverage lead nearly 2.6 million workers every year who need family or medical leave to not take it because they fear they will lose their jobs if they do.
Last September, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act.’ This legislation would classify corporate interference in worker organization campaigns as political speech under the tax code making any money spent in these efforts non-tax deductible.
Congressman Dan Goldman is a member of the Labor Caucus and proud cosponsor of the PRO Act.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
DEMS attends International Railway Safety Council 2024 Conference (with photo) DEMS attends International Railway Safety Council 2024 Conference (with photo) ******************************************************************************
The Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services (DEMS), Mr Poon Kwok-ying, attended the International Railway Safety Council (IRSC) Conference in Vienna, Austria from September 18 to 20 (Austrian time). The Conference was an annual forum for railway safety regulators, operators and relevant stakeholders worldwide to exchange knowledge, experience and lesson learnt on railway safety. The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) gave presentations on four separate railway safety topics to share its experience in the applications of innovation and technology (I&T) for enhancing railway safety as well as the regulatory experience and preventive measures on handling catastrophic flooding. At the closing ceremony of the Conference on September 20 (Austrian time), Mr Poon, together with the Administrator of the National Railway Administration, Mr Fei Dongbin, and the Operations and Innovation Director of the MTR Corporation, Dr Tony Lee, were handed over the “IRSC Triangle” by the Organising Committee Chairman of this year’s Conference, symbolising that Hong Kong, China will be the host city of the next Conference. Under the theme “Advancing Railway Safety through Innovations and Collaborations”, the IRSC 2025 Conference will be jointly hosted by the EMSD, the National Railway Administration and the MTR Corporation. The delegates around the world will be invited to participate the Conference in Hong Kong, China to carry out in-depth exchanges on the issue of railway safety development and also personally experience the China’s railway development in recent years. Over 300 internationally renowned railway experts from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and more are expected to attend the Conference.
Ends/Saturday, September 21, 2024Issued at HKT 11:00
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director Kevin Guthrie in Perry and Cedar Key to provide updates on recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene impacted Florida’s Big Bend region. As of this afternoon, approximately 828,548 Floridians are without power. The State of Florida has already restored 1,573,907 accounts.
Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-209 on September 24, amending EO 24-208 and declaring a state of emergency for 61 counties.
To learn more, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide. For updates on county resources available visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties for a list of all 67 county emergency management contacts.
State Preparedness Effort
The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1 on Tuesday, September 24, and is leading coordination efforts for the State Emergency Response Team.
The State Emergency Response Team is engaged in over 1,500 missions to assist counties in their preparation efforts. These missions accomplish vital tasks like staging response resources, protecting critical infrastructure facilities like hospitals and utility stations, and coordinating personnel statewide.
Seven Urban search and rescue task forces are deployed.
The Florida National Guard (FLNG) has mobilized nearly 3,900 Soldiers and Airmen in preparation for Hurricane Helene.
The FLNG has rescued 30 residents throughout the impacted area. We have mobilized 15 route clearing teams and have 13 rotary wing aircraft prepared to provide SAR and/or damage assessment support. Mississippi is providing an additional 3 rotary wing aircraft later today.
The FLNG is providing logistics support, law enforcement support, route clearance, search and rescue, commodity distribution, flood mitigation, aviation and other support as needed by the state.
The Florida State Guard (FSG) is standing by with the following:
250+ Soldiers ready to deploy.
10 shallow water vessel boat teams
7 flat-bottom-flood rescue skiffs
2 amphibious rescue vehicles
2 K-9 search and rescue teams
12 UTV’s
15 Cut and toss crews
7 search and rescue teams
2 UH-60 Blackhawk for daytime aerial assessment and logistics missions
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Mutual Aid team is coordinating law enforcement missions including search and rescue and fuel for first responders.
FDLE is conducting status calls with DMS to ensure State SLERS radio communications systems are operative for law enforcement.
FDLE’s Aviation Unit conducted an aerial survey of impacted counties in coordination with the Air Operations Branch. FDLE has flown seven missions with five aircraft.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has more than 100 officers and support staff responding to areas of Florida impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Two Special Operations Group (SOG) teams, totaling 15 officers, from the NW Region responded to western coastal areas of the impacted area such as Franklin and Gulf counties, assisting residents in need and moved onto harder hit areas once areas were clear.
FWC officers are conducting welfare checks and search and rescues in coastal communities in Dixie, Levy and Taylor Counties with shallow draft vessels and specialized high-water vehicles.
A team of officers from the Southwest region assisted Pasco County law enforcement with high water evacuations due to storm surge conditions on Thursday night. Approximately seven people were rescued by FWC teams. Additionally, FWC officers rescued eleven people and six pets in Charlotte County due to high water conditions.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has over 2,100 FDOT team members working directly on storm response.
Damage assessment teams are active in the field and are surveying impacts.
61 Cut and Toss crews have worked since 3 a.m. and have completely cleared I-10.
Cut and Toss Operations
577 crews are active in the field and have already cleared over 8,300 miles of roadway.
129 Bridge Inspectors have inspected 1,200 bridges across the impacted areas.
FDOT is directly coordinating Cut & Toss Crews with Utility Response Crews to aid in swift utility restoration.
Westbound Gandy Bridge has reopened. One lane of eastbound Gandy Bridge has reopened.
Southbound Howard Frankland Bridge has reopened.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge is now open in both directions.
A 10-mile stretch of State Road 789 in Sarasota County and Manatee County has experienced extreme damage and the roadway is inaccessible. Crews are working to assess the entire corridor and have implemented an emergency contract to quickly perform repairs.
State Road 24 heading into Cedar Key was heavily damaged earlier this morning. Crews have completed repairs and reopened the roadway.
Crews are working to repair damage from erosion at Courtney Campbell Causeway.
Crews are working to clear sand and debris from the roadway on Gulf Blvd in Pinellas County.
Crews have reviewed over 7,000 traffic signals statewide. 255 signals across the impacted areas are not operational, however, crews are actively working to restore power to these locations.
Debris pick up has begun in South Florida- 42 crew members are FDOT has committed to perform debris pick up within fiscally constrained counties.
FDOT Secretary issued FDOT Emergency Order on September 23, 2024.
FDOT has lifted weight restrictions and is allowing bypass of weigh stations for emergency response vehicles, including utility vehicles staging for rapid response.
Road Ranger service has been expanded to assist motorists along critical roadways.
Resources deployed in the field or available as needed:
Over 858 generators
Nearly 49 pumps
Over 70 pieces of heavy equipment and trucks are actively in the field for response efforts
43 Drone team members staged to make assessments where needed
5 ITS trailers
FDOT encourages drivers to download the FL511 app or visit FL511.com for road/bridge closures and potential detours that may be activated.
Remember to never drive through flooded areas. The area of the roadway beneath the water may be washed out or may conceal debris or even power lines. Turn Around; Don’t Drown.
Transportation Modes Seaports
Port Panama City, Port of Port St. Joe, Port Tampa Bay, SeaPort Manatee, Port St. Pete, Port of Fernandina, and JAXPORT are closed waterside while awaiting Coast Guard Channel survey.
Airports
All airports have reopened.
Please check with airlines directly on the specific status of flights.
Rail
Passenger Rail:
Amtrak is operating. Please check with Amtrak directly for service impacts.
SunRail service has resumed with some service delays due to power outages.
Freight Rail:
Railroads in the impacted areas are assessing damage and conducting inspections.
Transit
Transit agencies in the impacted areas are assessing conditions and resuming service where possible. Please check directly with local agency providers for service impacts.
State-Owned Roads Closures (As of 2:30 p.m., 9/27/24) State Road closures listed below. For real-time updates, Check FL511.com. Bridge Closures
Closures
Northbound Howard Frankland
Courtney Campbell Causeway
One lane of eastbound Gandy Bridge
Alachua County
Debris on Roadway on NW 34th Blvd Northbound at NW 24th Ter. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-222 Both Directions from NE 27th Ave to NE 52nd St. All lanes closed.
Object on roadway on SR-26 / Newberry Rd East, at NW 66th St. 2 Right lanes blocked.
Debris on Roadway on SR-121 Northbound at NW 24th Ave. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-26 Both Directions at NE 27th Ave. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on us-441 Northbound at NW 104th Ln. 1 Right Lane closed.
Baker County
Debris on Roadway on US-90 Both Directions at Tiger Lake Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-90 Eastbound at Arnold Rhoden Rd. All lanes closed.
Charlotte County
Flooding on E Olympia Ave Eastbound at Nesbit St. All lanes closed.
Flooding on E Marion Ave Westbound at Cooper St. All lanes closed.
Flooding on US-41 North, before West Marion Ave. All lanes closed.
Flooding on US-17 East, at Nesbit St. All lanes closed.
Flooding on US-17 West, at Cooper St. All lanes closed.
Flooding on McCall Rd Northbound at Myakka River. All lanes closed.
High Winds on Tamiami Trl Southbound at Main St. All lanes closed.
High Winds on Tamiami Trl Northbound at Harborside Ave. All lanes closed.
Flooding on SR-776 North, before El Jobean Bridge. All lanes closed.
Columbia County
Debris on Roadway on SR-247 Both Directions at Oyster Shell Lane. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-47 Both Directions at US-41. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-441 Both Directions at NE Sunny Brook St. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-441 Both Directions at NW Ernest Greene Gln. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-10A Westbound at US-41. All lanes closed
Debris on Roadway on SR-247 Both Directions at SW Tamarack Loop. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-47 Both Directions near CR-240. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-47 Both Directions at SW Marvin Burnett Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-441 Both Directions from I-10 Eastbound to Georgia State Line. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-100 Both Directions at SE Douglas Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-247 Both Directions at SW Norris Ave. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-247 Both Directions at SW Dairy St. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-47 Both Directions at SW Watson Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on S US Highway 441 Northbound at CR-240. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-90 Westbound at SW Koonville Ave. All lanes closed.
Object on roadway on US-90 / Lake City East, at Sisters Welcome Rd. All lanes closed.
Object on roadway on US-90 / Lake City West, at Sisters Welcome Rd. All lanes closed.
Object on roadway on I-75 North, before MM 416. Right shoulder blocked.
Debris on Roadway on S US Highway 441 Both Directions at CR-18. All lanes closed.
Dixie County
Debris on Roadway on US-19 Southbound at NE 824th St. All lanes closed.
Duval County
Debris on Roadway on Emerson St Westbound at Rosemary St. All lanes closed.
Gilchrist County
Debris on Roadway on SR-26 Eastbound at TL Johnson Blvd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-47 Northbound at NE 40th Ct Rd. All lanes closed.
Hillsborough County
Flooding on SR-618 West, ramp to 22nd St.
Flooding on SR-618 East, at 22nd St.
Bridge Closed in Hillsborough County on SR-60 West, at Ben T Davis Beach. All lanes closed.
Jackson County
Flooding on Caverns Rd Both Directions at Russell Rd. All lanes closed.
Jefferson County
Debris on Roadway on Still Rd Southbound near N Jefferson St.
Debris on Roadway on W Washington Hwy Both Directions near Creekside Ct. All lanes closed.
Lafayette County
Debris on Roadway on E US 27 Northbound near CR-450. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on S SR-51 Both Directions at SW Van Buren Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on W US 27 Both Directions at CR-536. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on W US 27 Both Directions at NW Griffin Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on W US 27 Eastbound near SW Gary L Thomas Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on W US 27 Northbound at CR-350. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-27 Northbound at SW Truman Ln. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on E Main St Southbound at NE Willis Ave. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-349 Northbound at SR-27. All lanes closed. Debris on Roadway on SR-349 Northbound at CR-500. All lanes closed.
Lee County
Flooding on US-41 Business North, at Edison Bridge. All lanes closed.
Flooding on Edison Bridge Northbound 0.48 Miles Beyond 2nd St. All lanes closed.
Flooding on SR-80 / First St West, before Park Avenue. All lanes closed.
Flooding in Lee County on SR-865/ San Carlos Blvd North, at Matanzas Pass Bridge. All lanes closed.
Flooding in Lee County on SR-865/ San Carlos Blvd South, at Matanzas Pass Bridge. All lanes closed.
Flooding on US-41 South, beyond N Key Dr.. All lanes closed.
Levy County
Debris on Roadway on SR-345 Both Directions near NW 53rd Ln.
Debris on Roadway on SR-345 Both Directions at SE 4th St. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on NE Highway 27 Alt Both Directions at CR-339. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-19 Northbound at NW 140th St. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-41 Southbound at NE 75th St. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-121 Northbound at NE 50th St. All lanes closed.
Madison County
Debris on Roadway on SR-53 Both Directions near SR-14. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-53 Northbound at SR-10. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-221 Both Directions at I-10 Eastbound. All lanes closed.
Manatee County
Flooding in on SR-684 / Cortez Rd W East, at Gulf Dr. N (SR-789).
Flooding on SR-684 / Cortez Rd W West, at Gulf Dr N (SR-789). All lanes closed.
Flooding on SR-64 / Manatee Ave East, at Gulf Dr.. All lanes closed.
Flooding on SR-64 / Manatee Ave West, at Gulf Dr.. All lanes closed.
Pinellas County
Emergency vehicles on I-275 North, at Roosevelt Blvd. All lanes closed.
Emergency vehicles on I-275 North, ramp from EB Ulmerton Rd. On-ramp closed.
Emergency vehicles on I-275 North, ramp from NB 4th St N. On-ramp closed.
Bridge Closed on SR-60 East, at Dr. Kiran C. Patel Blvd. All lanes blocked.
Bridge Closed on SR-600/Gandy Blvd East, beyond MM 3. All lanes closed.
Flooding on I-275 South, ramp from EB Ulmerton Rd.
Flooding on N Pinellas Ave Both Directions at Anclote Rd.
Flooding on S Pinellas Ave Southbound at W Lime St.
Flooding on S Pinellas Ave Northbound at E MLK Dr.
Flooding on Bayshore Blvd Northbound at San Christopher Dr. All lanes closed.
Flooding on Bayshore Blvd Southbound at Causeway Blvd. All lanes closed.
Flooding on Pasadena Ave Southbound at Sunset Dr S. All lanes closed.
Flooding on 75th Ave Northbound near Mangrove Ave. All lanes closed.
Flooding on Edgewater Dr Southbound from President St to Locklie St. All lanes closed.
Flooding on S Pinellas Ave Southbound at Meres Blvd. All lanes closed.
Flooding on I-275 North, beyond 4th St N.
Flooding on I-275 South, ramp to 54th Ave S.
Flooding on SR-688 East, beyond Roosevelt Blvd N.
Flooding on SR-688 West, before Roosevelt Blvd N.
Debris on Roadway on Pinellas Bayway Southbound at Palma del Mar Blvd S. All lanes closed.
Sarasota County
Flooding on SR-789 North, at Sunset Drive. All lanes closed.
Flooding on SR-789 South, at Sunset Drive. All lanes closed.
Suwannee County
Debris on Roadway on US-90 Eastbound at 149th Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-90 Both Directions at CR-137. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-90 Westbound at 185th Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-90 Westbound at 63rd Dr. All lanes closed.
Taylor County
Debris on Roadway on S Jefferson St Both Directions at S Byron Butler Pkwy. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on SR-51 Both Directions near US-19 Southbound. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-19 Both Directions at Kelly Grade. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-27 Westbound at Granger Rd. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-27 Eastbound at CR-296. All lanes closed.
Debris on Roadway on US-98 Westbound at Dice Rd. All lanes closed.
The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) The VISN 8 Clinical Contact Center is operational 24/7/365 for virtual care and tele-emergency care and support to Veterans enrolled for VA Health Care in Florida. 1-877-741-3400. Visit https://department.va.gov/integrated-service-networks/visn-08 for more information.
Robert H. Jenkins Jr. Veterans’ Domiciliary Home in Lake City lost power and is currently on generator.
Volunteer Florida: Disaster Legal Hotline is open to assist and refer callers: 833-514-2940
Samaritan’s Purse hotline: 1-833-747-1234 free assistance for homeowners affected by the disaster. Volunteers may be able to assist with removal of personal property and furniture, flood cleanup, sanitizing with shockwave treatment, chainsaw work and Debris Clean-up, temporary roof tarping.
2-1-1 is open and ready to receive calls. Individuals can call for up-to-the-
Red Cross Hotline is open to assist: 1-800-Red Cross
Florida Baptists Disaster Relief Public Assistance: 904-253-0502 or text Helene to 27123. Free Assistance for homeowners affected by the disaster. Volunteers may be able to assist with Storm Debris Cleanup, Temporary Roof Tarping, Chainsaw work, and muckouts.
Crisis Cleanup number: 844-965-1386
Health and Human Services
The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) has shifted to recovery efforts and has begun post storm calls and wellness checks with clients, providers, partners, and staff in affected areas verifying status and ask about immediate needs caused by the storm and develop plans to resolve.
APD operated facilities in Marianna and Chattahoochee maintained power through the storm, while the Gainesville facility is without power and operating on generators. All residents, clients, and staff have reported they are safe.
14 evacuated APD licensed Group Homes have also reported they are safe, and APD will continue to work with providers to see about storm damage and potential needs.
APD is mapping Group Homes, clients in Supported Living Facilities, and clients living in family homes in affected areas for priority follow up and wellness checks by APD teams and provider staff.
APD is working with partners and the State Emergency Response Team to ensure the functional and access needs of disaster survivors are met.
APD Hope Florida Navigators and APD emergency recovery teams standby ready for deployment to affected areas to serve disaster distribution centers as needed.
The Florida Department of Health’s (DOH) is deploying over 470 emergency response vehicles. Staging is currently in Leon, Liberty, Osceola, Pinellas, and Polk counties.
At this time, one Boil Water Notice has been reported for Marion County as a result of Hurricane Helene.
DOH has Special Needs Shelters available in areas impacted by Hurricane Helene. A press release has been sent statewide for additional information on special needs shelters. To find a shelter near you, please visit the county emergency management page here.
DOH and the Agency for Health Care Administration initiated Patient Movement Mission to support medical transport and evacuations of health care facilities.
The State Surgeon General signed Emergency Order 24-002, which:
Waives competitive procurement requirements in order to procure commodities, goods, and services expeditiously in response to the emergency.
Permits emergency medical transportation services to operate across county lines.
Permits Paramedics, Emergency Medical Technicians, and Medical Directors, as defined by Chapter 401, Florida Statutes, licensed in other U.S. states, territories, or districts to practice in Florida in response to the emergency without penalty.
Authorizes a reporting extension for the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
Authorizes an extension of the upcoming licensure renewal deadlines for Nursing Home Administrators, Radiological Personnel, and Athletic Trainers until October 31, 2024.
DOH and the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) sent information regarding early prescription refills permitted under Executive Order 24-209. This information was sent to the public, health insurers, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, pharmacy chains, and health care providers.
The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has activated reporting in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS) and has requested that all health care providers report their census, available beds, evacuation status, and generator status information. This information allows AHCA to assist health care providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure that health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
AHCA has made 40 phone calls to health care facilities in the impacted area, to check their status.
As of 3 p.m., 92 health care facilities have reported evacuations. This includes:
46 assisted living facilities
29 nursing homes
6 hospitals
1 hospital emergency department
5 residential treatment facilities
2 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents
2 adult family care home, and 2 intermediate care facility for developmentally disabled
100% of operating long-term care facilities have a generator on-site. The Generator Status Map for long-term care facilities is available here.
As 3 p.m., there are 158 health care facilities on generator power across the state. This includes:
3 hospitals
77 assisted living facilities
43 nursing homes.
5 adult family care home
2 hospices
5 hospital emergency department
5 intermediate care facility for the developmentally disabled
10 residential treatment facilities
1 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents
7 crisis stabilization and short-term rtf
The Agency has waived all prior authorization requirements for critical Medicaid services until further notice.
AHCA has conducted 39 onsite post-incident assessment visits.
Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) cut teams and FDOT road clearing teams are providing aid to areas impacted by the storm.
FHP continues to mobilize drone assets to help assess post-storm damage and assist with rescue and recovery efforts in areas impacted by the storm.
FHP Troopers are assisting with escorting critical restoration and recovery vehicles from around the state to areas impacted by the storm.
FHP is mobilizing Quick Response Force team members to deploy to affected areas of Florida to assist with recovery efforts.
FHP and FDOT cut teams cleared all trees and debris from Interstate 10 and Interstate 75 and traffic flow has been restored.
FHP drone assets and fixed-wing aircraft are actively assisting with search and rescue efforts and storm damage assessment.
FHP mobilized high-water vehicles to areas affected by the storm to assist with search and rescue efforts.
FHP is providing security at storm response fuel sites.
FLHSMV has 3 Florida Licensing on Wheels (FLOW) mobiles on standby to provide mobile credentialing services in impacted areas and to those affected by the storm.
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) issued Emergency Order 24-05, in support of Executive Order 24-209 which: waives specific requirements for commercial motor vehicles providing emergency relief; and waives the replacement fees for driver’s license and identification credentials, vehicle registrations and titles, vessel registrations and titles and temporary parking permits for impacted individuals.
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) has contacted over 2,000 families and group homes to ensure all children and families served are safe and to determine needs.
The HOPE LINE has been activated at 8 a.m. today to assist those in need of resources or other assistance after the storm. It is now available 24/7 for the next two-plus weeks at 833-GET-HOPE.
Activate Hope has been deployed to help connect Floridians impacted by the storm with needed resources like food, supplies, home repairs, and more. Serving as the emergency response component of the Hope Florida initiative, Activate Hope connects the private sector, nonprofits, and government to help Floridians get back on their feet following a natural disaster. Fill out the form here to get help.
DCF has contacted over 5,500 licensed providers in impacted areas to check for needs after the storm.
The State Mental Health Treatment Facilities are fully operational.
Through ESF 6, DCF provided staffing and emergency supplies to 32 shelters and meals to 1,000 first responders.
The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) continues to contact all Area Agencies on Aging partners to receive updates. Post storm call downs to clients are ongoing and there are currently no unmet needs.
The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) has been contacting school districts and state colleges following Hurricane Helene and is addressing needs to reopen as quickly as possible. Districts, colleges, and universities are conducting damage assessments following the storm. Currently, 48 school districts, 19 state colleges, and 8 universities remain closed as of Friday, September 27, 2024.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is actively working to provide assistance to drinking water, wastewater and hazardous waste facilities. Outreach to these facilities to determine operational status is ongoing.
DEP’s online portal WaterTracker is now live for drinking and wastewater facilities to report their operational status.
DEP published a storm updates webpage to keep state park visitors updated: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates. Visitors with existing camping and cabin reservations at closed parks have been notified of their reservation status.
DEP is working with Florida’s Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (FlaWARN), the Florida Rural Water Association and other response agencies to dispatch generators, fuel and pump trucks and other resources to assist drinking and wastewater facilities.
DEP and response agencies are working 1-on-1 with partially- and non-operational drinking and wastewater facilities to get them back to operational status as quickly as possible to meet the immediate service needs of the communities they serve. Areas under boil water advisories can be found at https://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/drinking-water/boil-water-notices/index.html.
DEP is working in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard to identify oil spills and hazardous material releases in coastal and inland waterways.
94 Disaster Debris Management Sites have been authorized to operate for Hurricane Helene. These sites are a critical component of expediting clean-up and reducing environmental and public health impacts post-storm and meeting federal reimbursement requirements.
12 Florida State Parks strike teams have been assembled to assist with assessment and recovery efforts at impacted parks.
More than 60 state parks have reopened following Hurricane Helene. DEP published a storm updates webpage to keep state park visitors updated of closures: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates. Visitors with existing camping and cabin reservations at closed parks have been notified of their reservation status.
Resources for Employees, Businesses and Consumers
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) has partnered with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association to encourage more than 71,000 Florida-licensed lodging establishments to relax pet policies and waive pet fees for evacuees.
DBPR has proactively communicated with more than 137,000 restaurant and lodging licensees to provide storm preparation and food safety resources.
DBPR has proactively contacted more than 2,300 prescription wholesale stakeholders to provide information on emergency provisions under Governor DeSantis’ Executive Order 24-211 that will help mitigate supply chain difficulties with prescription drugs and medical gas.
The Florida Disaster Contractors Network has been activated to connect homeowners with licensed contractors and suppliers to perform emergency repairs.
DBPR encourages Florida’s licensed contractors who provide post-storm construction-related services to register with its Florida Disaster Contractors Network at DCNOnline.org.
DBPR has distributed FloridaCommerce’s Business Damage Assessment Survey to nearly 1,000,000 licensees in impacted counties and encouraged them to report damages using the survey.
DBPR’s Division of Hotels and Restaurants has begun disaster assessments in impacted areas. Emergency Response Teams across the state are completing outreach to impacted businesses to reinforce food safety protocols after the storm.
FloridaCommerce activated the private sector hotline at (850) 815-4925, open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Inquiries may also be emailed to ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
Updates on business closures and business resources are updated at FloridaDisaster.biz/CurrentDisasterUpdates.
FloridaCommerce and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Helene. Business owners can self-report physical and economic damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Helene recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses. Businesses can complete the survey online by visiting FloridaDisaster.biz and selecting “Hurricane Helene” from the dropdown menu.
FloridaCommerce is working with the Florida Chamber, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and other private sector partners to consistently update business open/close status on FloridaDisaster.biz. FloridaCommerce staff have made more than 300 calls to rural and small businesses to help with this effort.
Walmart has donated $500 gift cards to shelters in Hamilton, Madison and Suwannee Counties for the purchase of pet food.
Lowes has deployed their Tool Rental Truck to assist in recovery efforts providing a rental option for power tools from chainsaws and pressure washers, to fence post augers and compressors. The truck is also staffed with small engine mechanics to support local communities with power.
VISIT FLORIDA Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia, Priceline and Booking.com will remain available to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
Visit website for CareerSource openings: careersourceflorida.com
Comcast has opened more than 52,000 public Xfinity WiFi hotspots in Florida. The free and public hotspots are open for all, including non-Xfinity customers. For more information, click here.
CVS Health created pop-up pharmacies in impacted areas.
The Florida Department of State, Division of Elections, has contacted the United States Postal Service (USPS) about election information and vote-by-mail ballots. The Division of Elections recommended that Supervisors of Elections t contact their local district USPS to discuss a mitigation plan for ballot mailing, delivery, and return.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) worked with Florida’s ports and fuel industry partners to ensure adequate fuel supplies are available, and with Florida’s agricultural partners so producers have adequate resources. The Florida Forest Service staged equipment, like high-water vehicles.
The Commissioner of Agriculture, Wilton Simpson, has approved an Emergency Order temporarily suspending the intrastate movement requirements for animal transportation. In addition, the following states have waived their interstate import requirements for Florida pets, horses, and livestock leaving the state: Alabama, Georgia (does not include livestock), Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
Commissioner Wilton Simpson has approved an emergency rule authorizing out-of-state licensed security guards to protect people and property in Florida and has approved an emergency rule to aid the distribution of liquefied petroleum gas to disaster response and recovery operations.
Fuel inspectors are responding to impacted areas to ensure retail fuel dispensers are working properly and testing the quality of fuel.
Floridians are encouraged to visit complaints.fdacs.gov or call 1-800-HELP-FLA to report water-contaminated fuel issues to the department.
Food safety inspectors are responding to impacted areas to conduct damage assessments and ensure the safe operation of over 12,000 potentially impacted food establishments.
Agricultural partners can request critical assistance for livestock and animals in critical need, please complete this form then send it to DAIOPSAssessment@FDACS.gov, or call 863-993-5460.
UF/IFAS is studying the agricultural losses and damages resulting from Hurricane Helene. Producers can share information about impacts experienced at your farm, ranch, or aquaculture operation here.
Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) launched the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program for Florida farmers, ranchers, and growers impacted by Hurricane Helene to apply for low-interest and interest-free loans. Loans can be used by eligible agriculture and aquaculture producers to restore, repair, or replace essential physical property – including fences, equipment, greenhouses, and other buildings – or to remove vegetative debris.
FDACS is securing and providing critical resources to our agricultural producers, such as generators, fencing, feed/water, and veterinary supplies.
The Department of Revenue (FDOR) has issued Emergency Order 24-001: Taxing Authority Millage and Budget Hearings to assist local taxing authorities with altering their plans for annual budget hearings because of Helene. Department of Revenue bulletin PTO 20-07 provides further instructions for local taxing authorities during declared emergencies.
The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is posting updates publicly and in real-time at FDC.myflorida.com/weather-updates.
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) have finalized storm preparations to ensure the safety and security of staff and youth in our care. This includes fueling all vehicles, moving vehicles in low-lying and flood-prone areas to higher ground, testing and ensuring adequate fuel supplies for generators in the event of loss of power, and ensuring food, medicine, and emergency supplies are stocked and ready.
For previous updates see below: 9/24/2024 9/25/2024 9/26/2024
Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Hurricane Helene.
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
METAIRIE – This morning, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) had a conversation with attendees at the Novogradac Housing Tax Credits and Bond Conference in New Orleans. They discussed what it will take to preserve tax credits that make it easier to provide affordable housing and renovate historic buildings.
“Investing in small towns and big cities in Louisiana and elsewhere makes our cities more livable, our communities more beautiful, and creates jobs,” said Dr. Cassidy.
As part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Senator Cassidy preserved the Historic Tax Credit. According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the credit returns $1.20 in tax revenue for every dollar invested. Nationwide, it has created 3.2 million jobs and preserved more than 49,000 buildings. In Louisiana between Fiscal Years 2001 and 2023, it has supported over 90,000 jobs for over 1,000 projects.
Cassidy is also a cosponsor of the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, which would rename and strengthen the low-income housing tax credit to make housing more affordable.
Cassidy was welcomed to the conference by Mr. Michael Novogradac, the managing partner of Novogradac and Company, LLP, who spearheaded the event.
“We appreciate Senator Cassidy’s ongoing support of the Historic Tax Credit, which allows business leaders to renovate and repurpose historic buildings to restore beauty and provide housing or places to eat and shop at, as well as the Housing Credit, which is responsible for financing nearly all affordable rental housing in Louisiana and nationwide,” said Mr. Novogradac. “Cassidy is a champion for these efforts, and we are grateful for his leadership and for his attendance at our event today.”
The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida issued a permanent injunction today against Fort Lauderdale, Florida, tax return preparer Dexter Bataille, individually and doing business as Capital Financial Group Holdings LLC. The court ordered the closure of Bataille’s business, Capital Financial Holdings LLC, and barred him from preparing or assisting in preparing federal income tax returns or transferring his customer lists. The court also ordered Bataille to pay $134,400 in ill-gotten gains he received from his return preparation business. Bataille agreed to both the injunction and the order to pay $134,400.
The complaint alleged that Bataille prepared customers’ returns that fraudulently claimed various false or inflated deductions and credits, including fabricated, false and exaggerated profits and expenses to generate inflated business losses; misreported filing statuses and dependent claims; and false reports of household help income.
Deputy Assistant Attorney General David A. Hubbert of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.
Taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant against unscrupulous tax preparers. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. The IRS warns taxpayers to avoid “ghost preparers” and lists other improper acts that tax preparers engage in to take advantage of their unsuspecting customers.
In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division
The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida issued a permanent injunction today against Fort Lauderdale, Florida, tax return preparer Dexter Bataille, individually and doing business as Capital Financial Group Holdings LLC. The court ordered the closure of Bataille’s business, Capital Financial Holdings LLC, and barred him from preparing or assisting in preparing federal income tax returns or transferring his customer lists. The court also ordered Bataille to pay $134,400 in ill-gotten gains he received from his return preparation business. Bataille agreed to both the injunction and the order to pay $134,400.
The complaint alleged that Bataille prepared customers’ returns that fraudulently claimed various false or inflated deductions and credits, including fabricated, false and exaggerated profits and expenses to generate inflated business losses; misreported filing statuses and dependent claims; and false reports of household help income.
Deputy Assistant Attorney General David A. Hubbert of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.
Taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant against unscrupulous tax preparers. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. The IRS warns taxpayers to avoid “ghost preparers” and lists other improper acts that tax preparers engage in to take advantage of their unsuspecting customers.
In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
A federal grand jury in Gulfport, Mississippi, returned an indictment, unsealed yesterday, charging a Florida financial advisor with a years-long scheme to promote and operate an illegal tax shelter, stealing some of his clients’ funds and money laundering.
According to the indictment, Stephen T. Mellinger III, of Florida, was a securities broker, financial advisor and insurance salesman. Beginning in late 2013, Mellinger allegedly conspired with several others to defraud the IRS by promoting an illegal tax shelter.
Mellinger allegedly instructed clients participating in the shelter, including clients in Mississippi, to transfer money to a company controlled by Mellinger or his co-conspirators in the amount they wished to claim as a deduction on their tax returns. The conspirators then allegedly returned the money to a bank account that clients controlled less a percentage fee that they charged for their services. Even though tax shelter clients received their money back, Mellinger allegedly directed them to claim the transfer to the company as a deduction on their tax returns, and to label the deduction as a “royalty” payment. Mellinger allegedly earned more than $3 million in fees from the shelter.
Also, in January 2016, the federal government allegedly seized funds from some of Mellinger’s clients, who were engaged in a scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, the U.S. Department of Defense’s health care benefit program. Mellinger conspired with a close relative to take advantage of the seizure to steal some of the money that those clients had transferred through the tax shelter. Mellinger then allegedly laundered the stolen funds, which he knew were proceeds of healthcare fraud. Ultimately, he allegedly used some of the funds he stole from his clients to buy a home in Delray Beach, Florida.
Mellinger was charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States, aiding in the preparation of false tax returns, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering. If convicted, Mellinger faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for conspiring to defraud the IRS, a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each substantive count of aiding in the preparation of false tax returns, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiring to commit wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiring to commit money laundering and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each substantive count of money laundering. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation and Defense Criminal Investigative Service are investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys William Montague, Richard J. Hagerman and Matthew Hicks of the Tax Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham for the Southern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorneys Emily Cohen and Jasmin Salehi Fashami of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mireille Rebeiz, Chair of Middle East Studies & Associate Professor of Francophone & Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies, Dickinson College
A picture of the secretary-general of Hezbollah Hassan Nasrallah is seen among the rubble following an Israeli air strike.Str-/picture alliance via Getty Images
Israel has killed the leader of the militant group Hezbollah in a airstrike in Beirut, marking a further escalation of hostilities in the region.
The death of Hassan Nasrallah, confirmed by Hezbollah on Sept 28, 2024, forms part of a major Israeli push against the Iran-backed group in recent days that has resulted in the death of several top leaders – but also killed hundreds of civilians and left many more fleeing Lebanon’s south in fear of a ground invasion.
But what is Hezbollah? What exactly is its role in Lebanon? And how big a blow is Nasrallah’s death? The Conversation turned to Mireille Rebeiz, a Lebanon expert at Dickinson College who is writing her second book on Hezbollah, to help explain.
What is Hezbollah? And what role does it play in Lebanon?
Officially, the group came into existence in 1985 with the publication of a manifesto that detailed Hezbollah’s aims for the region. The manifesto outlined a plan to duplicate the Iranian revolution of 1979 in Lebanon and create a Shiite Islamic state. It pledged allegiance to the Supreme Leader of the Iranian Revolution, Ruhollah Musavi Khomeini, and vowed to fight the Israeli occupation of Lebanon and the Palestinian territories.
The Lebanese Civil War ended in 1991 with the signing of the “Taif Agreement,” in which warring factions agreed that a political and democratic process was the only way to move forward in Lebanon. Consequently, Hezbollah had to develop a political wing, and in 1992 Hezbollah entered the political ring, running for national elections and winning 12 out of 128 parliamentarian seats.
But while the peace agreement called for the disarmament of militia groups, Hezbollah was allowed to retain its armed wing as a “resistance” group, fighting Israeli occupation in south Lebanon.
Many Lebanese political parties allied themselves with Hezbollah at this juncture. While these parties did not necessarily share the group’s views or its commitment to Iran, they were similarly committed to fight the Israeli occupation, and Hezbollah fighters were the main force doing so.
Hezbollah’s presence in parliament and the Lebanese government, and its alliance with various political parties, allowed it to control the country and veto decisions that do not fit its agenda or promote its interest.
Since 2005, Lebanon has had three presidential lapses: from Nov. 2007 to May 2008, from May 2014 to October 2016, and from Oct. 31, 2023 until today. The parliamentarian Speaker, Nabih Berri, who is Shiite and known for his allegiance to Hezbollah, refuses to convene the parliament for presidential elections unless the nominee is approved by Hezbollah and its allies.
As well as having a political and military wing, Hezbollah also provides various services, such as social welfare, health care, utilities, education and even security to his community.
Is it right to see Hezbollah primarily as a Iran-backed militia?
Yes — Hezbollah is primarily an Iranian-backed militia. It exists to serve the Iranian regime and expand its ideology in the region, as set out in the group’s 1985 manifesto. In 2009, Hezbollah issued a new manifesto in which it reaffirmed its commitment to the Shiite Islamic resistance led by Tehran.
As to its financial and military support, in 2016, Nasrallah confirmed: “Hezbollah’s budget, everything it eats and drinks, its weapons and rockets, comes from the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
Furthermore, with the backing of Iran, Hezbollah was able to create and expand its own illegal financial network through money laundering, drug trafficking and other unlawful activities.
Along with Iran, Syria has played a major role in Hezbollah’s development. The Taif Agreement called for Syrian Armed Forces to enter Lebanon for a two-year period to help establish law and order after more than a decade of civil war.
But it stayed in Lebanon for over 16 years, and the Syrian government’s closeness to the Iranian regime made Hezbollah a perfect ally. So much so, that when civil war broke out in Syria in 2011, Hezbollah emerged as a major actor in that conflict, sending thousands of Lebanese fighters to Syria to assist the government’s efforts to suppress a popular uprising.
But others started pushing for Hezbollah to cease its military operations and for the Lebanese Armed Forces to take over Hezbollah’s task in securing Lebanon’s borders.
The killing sparked massive anti-government, anti-Syrian and anti-Hezbollah protests on the streets of Beirut. The subsequent Cedar Revolution led to the departure of the Syrian forces from Lebanon and marked a drop in Hezbollah’s popularity, in general.
A Lebanese woman grieves the death of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri in 2005. Haitham Mussawi/AFP via Getty Images
This drop was apparent in the 2005 elections, in which an anti-Syrian and anti-Hezbollah political coalition claimed victory.
Since 2005, Lebanon has seen a series of events that indicate a clear opposition to Hezbollah. Several journalists and political figures were assassinated for speaking out against Hezbollah and Syria. Their deaths outraged many Lebanese.
And in 2015, the “You Stink” environmental movement was born to protest political corruption and Hezbollah’s control of waste management.
In 2019, a similar protest movement was born in which Lebanese took to the streets to express their frustration against corruption and inflation. Under the slogan “All Means All,” Lebanese protested all political parties — including Hezbollah.
These events indicate Lebanese dissatisfaction with Hezbollah.
A 2020 poll showed a drop in Hezbollah’s popularity even among the Shiite community, which makes up about a third of the population.
Polling during the almost year of hostilities following the Oct. 7, 2023, attack by Hezbollah ally Hamas on Israel suggests that Hezbollah’s influence continues to exceed its popularity. An Arab Barometer poll of Lebanese in early 2024 found that only 30% trust Hezbollah, whereas 55% said they do not trust the group at all. While Hezbollah still retains the trust of 85% of Shiites, only 9% of Sunnis and Druze and 6% of Christians trust the militia.
What is Hezbollah’s structure?
Originally, Hezbollah leadership consisted of a religious council of seven members created in the 1980s; it has branches and committees that govern different affairs including finances, social, political and military issues. This religious council, or “Shura Council,” has regional offices in Beirut, the Bekaa Valley in the country’s eastern region and south Lebanon.
At the end of the Lebanese Civil War, two more bodies were added: an executive council and a politburo, or central political body. The religious council was chaired by Sayyid Muhammad Hussein Fadlallah, who offered religious guidance to the Shiite community and was often described as Hezbollah’s spiritual leader.
Both the council and Hezbollah swear allegiance to Iran’s Supreme Leader. The council is also tasked to select Hezbollah’s Secretary General.
After the Israeli assassination of Hezbollah’s co-founder, Abbas al-Musawi, in 1992, Hassan Nasrallah assumed this role and remained Secretary General until his death in Beirut in the current Israeli campaign.
What impact will Nasrallah’s death have on Hezbollah’s operations?
The assassinations of Hezbollah commanders are meant to remove major decision-makers. The death of Secretary General Nasrallah is a definite blow to the group, which is already vulnerable from last week’s attacks. The goal is to demoralize its fighters.
Furthermore, these attacks convey a clear message that Israel will no longer accept the tit-for-tat attacks on its northern border.
However, Israel may not necessarily get its desired impact.
The situation now is fluid and it’s hard to predict what will happen next. But the fresh wave of violence may only reinforce Hezbollah’s resolve.
Furthermore, it might see more involvement of other Hezbollah-aligned players into the region, such as the Houthis in Yemen and Kata’ib Hizballah in Iraq.
Following the announcement of Nasrallah’s death, Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei threatened Israel and vowed more support to Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Mireille Rebeiz is affiliated with the American Red Cross.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today that it will open Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 30 at the Wiltown Community Center in Adams Run, Colleton County Taxpayer Service Center in Walterboro, and the Dorchester County Library, in St. George, to assist South Carolinians with applying for SBA disaster loans for losses due to Tropical Storm Debby that occurred on Aug. 4-22.
The declaration includes the primary counties of Berkeley and Orangeburg and the adjacent counties of Aiken, Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun, Charleston, Clarendon, Colleton, Dorchester, Georgetown, Lexington and Williamsburg in South Carolina.
“When disasters strike, our Disaster Loan Outreach Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” said Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “At these centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”
Customer Service Representatives are available at the Centers to assist business owners complete their disaster loan application, accept documents, and provide updates on an application’s status. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment at an SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center in advance. The Centers will operate as indicated below.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC)
Berkeley County
Berkeley County Administration Building
1003 US-52
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed: Sunday
Permanently Closes: Wednesday, Oct. 9 at 4 p.m.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC)
Charleston County
Wiltown Community Center
5779 Parkers Ferry Rd
Adams Runs, SC 29426
Opening: Monday, Sept. 30 at 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Hours: Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Closed: Saturday and Sunday
Permanently Closes: Friday, Oct 4 at 4 p.m.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC)
Colleton County
Colleton County Taxpayer Service Center
118 Benson St.
Walterboro, SC 29488
Opening: Monday, Sept. 30 at 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Hours: Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed: Sunday
Permanently Closes: Saturday, Oct. 5 at 2 p.m.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC)
Dorchester County
Dorchester County Library
506 North Parlor Ave
St. George, SC 29477
Opening: Monday, Sept. 30 at 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Hours: Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed: Sunday
Permanently Closes: Monday, Oct. 7 at 4 p.m.
Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC)
Orangeburg County
Bowman Library
7105 Charleston Hwy
Bowman, SC 29018
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed: Sunday
Permanently Closes: Wednesday, Oct. 9 at 4 p.m.
For more information and to apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Nov. 18, 2024. The deadline to return economic injury applications is June 18, 2025.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:
AB 869 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Hospitals: seismic safety compliance.
AB 1008 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018: personal information.
AB 1034 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Labor Code Private Attorneys General Act of 2004: exemption: construction industry employees.
AB 1137 by Assemblymember Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, Sr. (D-Los Angeles) – Excluded employees.
AB 1186 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Restitution fines.
AB 1239 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – Workers’ compensation: disability payments.
AB 1282 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Mental health: impacts of social media.
AB 1575 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – Public postsecondary education: students codes of conduct: advisers.
AB 1807 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – County of Riverside Citizens Redistricting Commission.
AB 1871 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) – Adopted course of study for grades 7 to 12: social sciences: personal financial literacy.
AB 1877 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Juveniles: sealing records.
AB 1899 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – Courts.
AB 1905 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Public postsecondary education: employment: settlements, informal resolutions, and retreat rights.
AB 1913 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Pupil safety: child abuse prevention: training.
AB 1936 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – Maternal mental health screenings.
AB 1954 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) – Sexually violent predators.
AB 2013 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – Generative artificial intelligence: training data transparency.
AB 2063 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Health care coverage.
AB 2080 by Assemblymember Dr. Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno) – University of California: schools of medicine: report.
AB 2085 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Planning and zoning: permitted use: community clinic.
AB 2099 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Crimes: reproductive health services.
AB 2105 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Coverage for PANDAS and PANS.
AB 2234 by Assemblymember Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) – Vehicles: electric bicycles.
AB 2284 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – County employees’ retirement: compensation.
AB 2295 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Crimes: commencement of prosecution.
AB 2310 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) – Parole hearings: language access.
AB 2326 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – Equity in Higher Education Act: discrimination: compliance, regulations, and reports.
AB 2395 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – California State University: extension programs, special session, and self-supporting instructional programs: revenues.
AB 2402 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Drink spiking.
AB 2407 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) – Public postsecondary educational institutions: sexual harassment complaints: state audits.
AB 2473 by the Committee on Education – English Language Learner Acquisition and Development Pilot Program repeal: teacher credentialing authorizations: fingerprints and related information: high school coursework and graduation requirements for pupils participating in a newcomer program.
AB 2481 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Social media-related threats: reporting.
AB 2501 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – Water quality control plans: donations and grants.
AB 2533 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Accessory dwelling units: junior accessory dwelling units: unpermitted developments.
AB 2579 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – Inspections: exterior elevated elements.
AB 2581 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Healing arts: continuing education: maternal mental health.
AB 2628 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) – California State Auditor: internet website.
AB 2630 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Pupil health: oral health assessment.
AB 2643 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Cannabis cultivation: environmental remediation.
AB 2711 by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland) – Suspensions and expulsions: voluntary disclosures.
AB 2749 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – California Health Benefit Exchange: financial assistance.
AB 2854 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – Bradley-Burns Uniform Local Sales and Use Tax Law.
AB 2885 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Artificial intelligence.
AB 2925 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Postsecondary education: Equity in Higher Education Act: prohibition on discrimination: training.
AB 2929 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Dependents: family finding.
AB 2935 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Foster children: consumer credit reports.
AB 2995 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Public health: alcohol and drug programs.
AB 3030 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – Health care services: artificial intelligence.
AB 3218 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Unflavored Tobacco List.
AB 3223 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program.
AB 3240 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – California Ban on Scholarship Displacement Act of 2021: Cal Grant awards.
AB 3259 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – Transactions and use taxes: City of Campbell: City of Pinole: County of Solano.
AB 3281 by the Committee on Judiciary – Judiciary omnibus.
AB 3284 by the Committee on Elections – Elections omnibus bill.
SB 268 by Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (D-Jackson) – Crimes: serious and violent felonies.
SB 295 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Board of Pilot Commissioners: surcharge.
SB 483 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Pupil rights: prone restraint.
SB 532 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Parking payment zones.
SB 537 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – City or County of Los Angeles: memorial to forcibly deported Mexican Americans and Mexican immigrants.
SB 549 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Gaming: Tribal Nations Access to Justice Act.
SB 597 by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda) – Building standards: rainwater catchment systems.
SB 607 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Controlled substances.
SB 691 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Pupil attendance: truancy notifications.
SB 707 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024.
SB 897 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Pupil attendance: interdistrict attendance: school districts of choice.
SB 904 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit District.
SB 908 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Fentanyl: child deaths.
SB 957 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Data collection: sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex status.
SB 969 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Alcoholic beverages: entertainment zones: consumption.
SB 988 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Freelance Worker Protection Act.
SB 991 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – School districts: Los Angeles Unified School District: inspector general.
SB 997 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) –Pupil health: opioid antagonists and fentanyl test strips.
SB 1016 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – Latino and Indigenous Disparities Reduction Act.
SB 1059 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Cannabis: local taxation: gross receipts.
SB 1064 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – Cannabis: operator and separate premises license types: excessive concentration of licenses.
SB 1090 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Unemployment insurance: disability and paid family leave: claim administration.
SB 1100 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Discrimination: driver’s license.
SB 1109 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Cannabis: demographic information of license applicants.
SB 1120 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Health care coverage: utilization review.
SB 1131 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – Medi-Cal providers: family planning.
SB 1147 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Drinking water: microplastics levels.
SB 1162 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Public contracts: employment compliance reports: apprenticeship programs.
SB 1166 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Public postsecondary education: sex discrimination reports.
SB 1180 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Health care coverage: emergency medical services.
SB 1195 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Assessments: advanced placement examinations: fall testing date.
SB 1209 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Local agency formation commission: indemnification.
SB 1223 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Consumer privacy: sensitive personal information: neural data.
SB 1240 by Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (D-Jackson) – Public Employees’ Retirement System: contracting agencies: consolidation.
SB 1263 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Teacher credentialing: teaching performance assessment: workgroup.
SB 1277 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Pupil instruction: genocide education: the Holocaust.
SB 1283 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Pupils: use of social media.
SB 1287 by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda) – Public postsecondary education: Equity in Higher Education Act: prohibition on violence, harassment, intimidation, and discrimination.
SB 1288 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Public schools: artificial intelligence working group.
SB 1300 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Health facility closure: public notice: inpatient psychiatric and perinatal services.
SB 1350 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Occupational safety and health: definitions.
SB 1447 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Hospitals: seismic compliance: Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
SB 1488 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Outdoor advertising displays: exemptions.
SB 1490 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Food delivery platforms.
SB 1498 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Cannabis and industrial hemp: advertising: civil action.
SB 1504 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Cyberbullying Protection Act.
The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:
AB 1168 by Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) – Emergency medical services (EMS): prehospital EMS. A veto message can be found here.
AB 1788 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – Mental health multidisciplinary personnel team. A veto message can be found here.
AB 1826 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Digital Infrastructure and Video Competition Act of 2024. A veto message can be found here.
AB 1949 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – California Consumer Privacy Act of 2020: collection of personal information of a consumer less than 18 years of age. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2095 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Publication: newspapers of general circulation. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2098 by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) – California Health Facilities Financing Authority Act: nondesignated hospitals: loan repayment. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2138 by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland) – Peace officers: tribal police pilot project. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2279 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Justice Program. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2467 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Health care coverage for menopause. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2736 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Veterans: benefits. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2936 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Higher Education Reconciliation Act. A veto message can be found here.
AB 3031 by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San Jose) – LGBTQ+ Commission. A veto message can be found here.
AB 3077 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) – Criminal procedure: borderline personality disorder. A veto message can be found here.
AB 3129 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Health care system consolidation. A veto message can be found here.
SB 85 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Immigration: case management and social services. A veto message can be found here.
SB 227 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Unemployment: Excluded Workers Program. A veto message can be found here.
SB 278 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Elder abuse: emergency financial contact program. A veto message can be found here.
SB 357 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Vehicles: physician and surgeon reporting. A veto message can be found here.
SB 907 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Orange County Board of Education: members. A veto message can be found here.
SB 961 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Vehicles: safety equipment. A veto message can be found here.
SB 966 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Pharmacy benefits. A veto message can be found here.
SB 971 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Community colleges: exemption from nonresident tuition fee: resident of a region impacted by war or regional conflict. A veto message can be found here.
SB 1119 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Hospitals: seismic compliance. A veto message can be found here.
SB 1246 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – California Prompt Payment Act: nonprofit organizations. A veto message can be found here.
SB 1299 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Farmworkers: benefits. A veto message can be found here.
For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
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AB 598 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – San Francisco Bay Area Regional Housing Finance Act: regional and county expenditure plans.
AB 653 by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) – Public housing authorities: reports.
AB 810 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Postsecondary education: hiring practices: academic, athletic, and administrative positions.
AB 846 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Housing programs: rent increases.
AB 863 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) – Carpet recycling: producer responsibility organizations: fines: succession: training.
AB 892 by Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-Bakersfield) – Kern County Hospital Authority.
AB 1205 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – California State University students: California Promise: Finish in Four and Through in Two.
AB 1359 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – California Environmental Quality Act: geothermal exploratory projects: lead agency.
AB 1524 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Postsecondary education: on-campus access to drug testing devices.
AB 1577 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Health facilities and clinics: clinical placements: nursing.
AB 1581 by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) – Conservation: Restoration Management Permit Act and California State Safe Harbor Agreement Program Act.
AB 1777 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Autonomous vehicles.
AB 1801 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Supportive housing: administrative office space.
AB 1859 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) – Coroners: duties.
AB 1885 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Student Success Completion Grant program.
AB 1889 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Conservation element: wildlife and habitat connectivity.
AB 1930 by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) – Teaching credentials: Child Development Associate Teacher Permit: renewal.
AB 1963 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Pesticides: paraquat dichloride. A signing message can be found here.
AB 1976 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Occupational safety and health standards: first aid materials: opioid antagonists.
AB 1997 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) – Teachers’ Retirement Law.
AB 2004 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – County recorder: recordation of documents.
AB 2037 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – Weights and measures: electric vehicle chargers.
AB 2047 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Public postsecondary education: discrimination prevention.
AB 2048 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Community colleges: systemic campus reforms: sexual harassment: report.
AB 2053 by Assemblymember Devon Mathis (R-Porterville) – Pupil instruction: abusive relationships.
AB 2057 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Associate Degree for Transfer.
AB 2068 by Assemblymember Liz Ortega (D-San Leandro) – State agencies: call center work: reporting information.
AB 2082 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – State highways: State Route 138: reduction.
AB 2107 by Assemblymember Phillip Chen (R-Yorba Linda) – Clinical laboratory technology: remote review.
AB 2109 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Electricity: surcharge exemption: industrial process heat recovery.
AB 2136 by Assemblymember Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, Sr. (D-Los Angeles) – Controlled substances: analyzing and testing.
AB 2165 by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) – Pupil instruction: financial aid application.
AB 2181 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) – Juvenile court school pupils: graduation requirements and continued education options.
AB 2193 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Hazing: educational institutions: prohibition and civil liability: reports and resources.
AB 2196 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – Beaver restoration.
AB 2229 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – California Healthy Youth Act: menstrual health education.
AB 2235 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Public contracts: local agencies: wind infrastructure.
AB 2258 by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles) – Health care coverage: cost sharing.
AB 2292 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Electrical transmission facilities: certificates of public convenience and necessity.
AB 2293 by Assemblymember Devon Mathis (R-Porterville) – Joint powers agreements: health care services.
AB 2304 by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San Jose) – Unlawful detainer: case records.
AB 2346 by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San Jose) – Organic waste reduction regulations: procurement of recovered organic waste products.
AB 2368 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – System reliability and outages.
AB 2375 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Alcoholic beverages: on-sale general public premises: drink lids.
AB 2403 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Community colleges: student equity plan.
AB 2440 by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) – 30×30 goal: partnering state agencies: Department of Parks and Recreation.
AB 2471 by Assemblymember Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) – Professions and vocations: public health nurses.
AB 2503 by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San Jose) – California Environmental Quality Act: exemption: passenger rail projects.
AB 2505 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) – Attorneys: pro bono legal services.
AB 2509 by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) – Invasive Species Council of California: activities: definitions.
AB 2525 by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles) – State highways: property leases.
AB 2527 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Incarceration: pregnant persons.
AB 2580 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – Historical resources.
AB 2590 by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) – San Bernardino County Transportation Authority: contracting.
AB 2606 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) – California Agave Commission.
AB 2613 by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles) – Jacqueline Marie Zbur Rare Disease Advisory Council.
AB 2624 by Assemblymember Marie Waldron (R-Valley Center) – Prisoners: employment: bereavement.
AB 2632 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – Planning and zoning: thrift retail stores.
AB 2633 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – California State University: joint degrees: international institutions of higher education.
AB 2645 by Assemblymember Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) – Electronic toll collection systems: information sharing: law enforcement.
AB 2669 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Toll bridges: tolls.
AB 2672 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – California Alternate Rates for Energy program: public housing authority owned or administered Homekey housing facilities.
AB 2682 by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) – Santa Clara Valley Open-Space Authority.
AB 2696 by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) – Labor-related liabilities: direct contractor and subcontractor.
AB 2697 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – Transportation electrification: electric vehicle charging stations: network roaming standards.
AB 2723 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – The California Cradle-to-Career Data System Act.
AB 2729 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Development projects: permits and other entitlements.
AB 2740 by Assemblymember Marie Waldron (R-Valley Center) – Incarcerated persons: prenatal and postpartum care.
AB 2754 by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) – Employment contracts and agreements: sufficient funds: liability.
AB 2765 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Public Utilities Commission: reports: telecommunications service: backup electricity.
AB 2779 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Independent System Operator: transmission planning.
AB 2780 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) – Carrier of Passengers Act of 2024.
AB 2851 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Metal shredding facilities: fence-line air quality monitoring.
AB 2859 by Assemblymember Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) – Emergency medical technicians: peer support.
AB 2866 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Pool safety: State Department of Social Services regulated facilities.
AB 2900 by Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria (D-Fresno) – Small agricultural truck fleet assistance program.
AB 2904 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – Zoning ordinances: notice.
AB 2967 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Teacher Housing Act of 2016: nonprofit organization employees.
AB 2975 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) – Occupational safety and health standards: workplace violence prevention plan: hospitals.
AB 2984 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) – Fleeing the scene of an accident.
AB 2999 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – Pupil instruction: homework policy.
AB 3012 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Development fees: fee schedule template: fee estimate tool.
AB 3062 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Fire protection districts: electrical corporations and local publicly owned electric utilities: prescribed or controlled burns: notice requirements.
AB 3122 by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) – Streamlined housing approvals: objective planning standards and subdivision applications.
AB 3123 by Assemblymember Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, Sr. (D-Los Angeles) – Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority: board code of conduct: lobbying rules.
AB 3138 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – License plates and registration cards: alternative devices.
AB 3161 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Health facilities: patient safety and antidiscrimination.
AB 3162 by Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) – Octopus: aquaculture: prohibition.
AB 3190 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Public works. A signing message can be found here.
AB 3221 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Department of Managed Health Care: review of records.
AB 3227 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – California Environmental Quality Act: exemption: stormwater facilities: routine maintenance.
AB 3275 by Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria (D-Fresno) – Health care coverage: claim reimbursement.
SB 56 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – University of California: transfer of real property.
SB 59 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – Battery electric vehicles: bidirectional capability. A signing message can be found here.
SB 219 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Greenhouse gases: climate corporate accountability: climate-related financial risk.
SB 440 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – Regional Housing Finance Authorities.
SB 536 by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Surplus state real property: Heman G. Stark Youth Correctional Facility.
SB 552 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Public safety: pools and spas.
SB 572 by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) – Surplus state real property: community land trusts.
SB 583 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) – Salton Sea Conservancy. A signing message can be found here.
SB 675 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Prescribed grazing: local assistance grant program: Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force.
SB 768 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – California Environmental Quality Act: Department of Housing and Community Development: vehicle miles traveled: study.
SB 901 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – The military: eligibility.
SB 951 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – California Coastal Act of 1976: coastal zone: coastal development.
SB 1015 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Nursing schools and programs.
SB 1098 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Passenger and freight rail: LOSSAN Rail Corridor.
SB 1101 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Fire prevention: prescribed fire: state contracts: maps.
SB 1137 by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) – Discrimination claims: combination of characteristics.
SB 1150 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – Dissolution or nullity of marriage: restoration of former name or birth name.
SB 1152 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – State Fire Marshal: fire safety: regulations: lithium-based battery systems: telecommunications infrastructure.
SB 1161 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Juveniles.
SB 1168 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Business entities: Secretary of State: document filings.
SB 1177 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Public utilities: women, minority, disabled veteran, and LGBT business enterprises.
SB 1181 by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda) – Campaign contributions: agency officers.
SB 1183 by Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) – Community colleges: registered nursing programs.
SB 1210 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – New housing construction: electrical, gas, sewer, and water service: service connection information.
SB 1216 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Transportation projects: Class III bikeways: prohibition.
SB 1244 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Pupil instruction: dual enrollment: College and Career Access Pathways partnerships.
SB 1266 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Product safety: bisphenol.
SB 1271 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) – Electric bicycles, powered mobility devices, and storage batteries.
SB 1289 by Senator Richard D. Roth (D-Riverside) – Medi-Cal: call centers: standards and data.
SB 1295 by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Automobile insurance: notice of cancellation.
SB 1342 by Senator Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) – California Environmental Quality Act: infrastructure projects: County of San Diego. A signing message can be found here.
SB 1357 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Housing Authority of the County of Alameda.
SB 1382 by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda) – Community and rural health clinics: building standards.
SB 1384 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Powered wheelchairs: repair.
SB 1415 by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda) – CalWORKs: permanent housing assistance.
SB 1458 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – The Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act.
SB 1493 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Elections.
The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:
AB 359 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Pupil instruction: dual enrollment: College and Career Access Pathways partnerships. A veto message can be found here.
AB 871 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Safety in employment: conveyances. A veto message can be found here.
AB 1832 by Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Civil Rights Department: Labor Trafficking Task Force. A veto message can be found here.
AB 1961 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – End Hunger in California Act of 2024. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2061 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – Sales and Use Tax: exemptions: zero-emission public transportation ferries. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2104 by Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria (D-Fresno) – Community colleges: Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing Pilot Program. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2182 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Public works. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2237 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) – Children and youth: transfer of specialty mental health services. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2286 by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) – Vehicles: autonomous vehicles. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2381 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – California state preschool programs: reimbursement rates. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2442 by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles) – Healing arts: expedited licensure process: gender-affirming health care and gender-affirming mental health care. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2446 by Assemblymember Liz Ortega (D-San Leandro) – Medi-Cal: diapers. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2513 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Gas stoves and ranges: warning label. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2724 by Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) – High school pupils: voter registration. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2725 by Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Teacher credentialing: administrative services credential: occupational and physical therapists. A veto message can be found here.
AB 2745 by Assemblymember Devon Mathis (R-Porterville) – Agricultural pests: public nuisance: civil penalty. A veto message can be found here.
AB 3061 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) –Vehicles: autonomous vehicle incident reporting. A veto message can be found here.
AB 3063 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) – Pharmacies: compounding. A veto message can be found here.
AB 3068 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Adaptive reuse: streamlining: incentives. A veto message can be found here.
AB 3142 by Assemblymember Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, Sr. (D-Los Angeles) – Los Angeles Community College District: California Center for Climate Change Education. A veto message can be found here.
AB 3160 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) – Insurance, income, and corporation taxes: credits: low-income housing. A veto message can be found here.
SB 254 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – Correctional facilities: media access. A veto message can be found here.
SB 895 by Senator Richard D. Roth (D-Riverside) – Community colleges: Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing Pilot Program. A veto message can be found here.
SB 1067 by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) – Healing arts: expedited licensure process. A veto message can be found here.
SB 1213 by Senator Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) – Health care programs: cancer. A veto message can be found here.
SB 1374 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Net energy metering. A veto message can be found here.
SB 1391 by Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Teachers: preparation and retention data. A veto message can be found here.
For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
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Opening remarks by United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, at United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, at G-77 48th Annual Ministerial Meeting.
——————————–
Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me begin by congratulating Uganda on its leadership of the G77 plus China this year.
And I want to salute your entire membership.
For 60 years – year in and year out — the G77 plus China has been on the frontlines for fairness, equality, justice and solidarity.
You have been the engine driving progress to eradicate poverty, to fight inequalities, to root out injustices in our post-colonial world.
And you have been shining a spotlight on the need for fundamental reforms of the multilateral system.
Reforms of the international financial architecture and the Security Council to make them more legitimate and more effective.
Reforms to make sure our institutions reflect the realities of today’s world and respond to today’s challenges instead of the world and the challenges of 1945.
We have taken some steps forward with the adoption of the Pact for the Future, the Declaration on Future Generations, and the Global Digital Compact.
Of course, not everything we may have hoped for was in the final package.
But none of the achievements would have been possible without your insistence and persistence. If you allow me an image, if you compare the documents that we approved on Sunday with the continued documents of the G7 and the G77, we have to recognize that they are much closer to the documents of the G77. One 7 makes a lot of difference.
I commend the G77 plus China for always pushing for maximum ambition and look forward to working with you as we continue pursuing the justice your countries deserve – and our world needs.
We still have a long way to go.
Our world is on a knife’s edge.
Climate chaos is worsening.
Conflicts are raging.
Human rights are floundering.
Inequality and injustice are eroding trust and undermining the social contract of societies.
The rights of women and girls are being snuffed out.
Entire economies are drowning in debt.
The digital divide is fast becoming a gaping chasm.
And the Sustainable Development Goals are hanging by a thread.
We need action on a number of fronts in line with what was approved in the Summit of the Future.
First, financial justice.
Finance is the fuel to drive progress on sustainable development.
Yet so many countries remain locked out from accessing capital for essential investments.
This situation is unsustainable – and a recipe for social unrest.
That is why we have been pushing for fundamental reforms to the outdated, ineffective and unfair international financial system, and an SDG Stimulus to provide developing countries with the resources they need while seeking medium- and long-term solutions.
We must keep working to make Multilateral Development Banks bigger, bolder and better, enabling them to massively scale up affordable financing for sustainable development, namely in developing countries.
We must expand contingency financing through the recycling of Special Drawing Rights that until now have essentially benefitted rich countries and not those that have needed it the most.
We must promote effective long-term debt restructuring that puts people and planet at the centre.
And we must keep on working for a more inclusive and effective international tax system. I applaud the Ad Hoc Committee for drafting ambitious and practical Terms of Reference for a UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation.
Second, climate justice.
We urgently need supercharged action to reduce emissions and avoid the worst of climate chaos.
This must be in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances.
Every country must create new national climate action plans – or NDCs – well ahead of COP30, that align with 1.5 degrees and put the world on track to phase out fossil fuels – fast and fairly.
G20 countries – which together produce eighty percent of global emissions – have a responsibility to lead. I am working closely with President Lula of Brazil to drive action in the G20.
And I urge every developing country to make sure new national climate plans double as investment plans and boost sustainable development – harnessing renewables to power prosperity and pull people out of poverty.
The United Nations is mobilizing our entire system to support these efforts through the Climate Promise initiative.
Full remarks [as delivered]:
https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/statement/2024-09-27/secretary-generals-remarks-the-annual-meeting-of-g77-foreign-ministers
This rises to £1,000 every quarter, or £4,000 per year per child, if the child has a disability.
To take advantage, working parents and carers need to set up an online childcare account for their child or children. For every £8 they pay in, the Government will top this up by £2, up to a maximum of £2,000 a year, or £4,000 if the child has a disability.
It can then be used to pay for childcare including childminders, nurseries and nannies, playschemes, before and after school clubs, and holiday clubs, if providers are signed up to the scheme.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Accessing childcare gives your child the chance to learn, play and make new friends and the opportunity to develop and master new skills – and of course it also helps working parents and carers to juggle their careers with their caring responsibilities.
“Thousands of families across Wolverhampton are already taking advantage of the national tax free childcare scheme, helping them save money on childcare, and I would encourage other working parents and carers to find out if they are eligible, too.”
To be eligible, parents and carers must be working at least 16 hours a week, earning at least the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage and up to £100,000 per year. Tax free childcare cannot be claimed at the same time as Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit or Universal Credit.
The child is eligible until the September after their 11th birthday, or until their 17th birthday if they have a disability, and parents and carers must reconfirm their eligibility every 3 months.
MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –
On October 1, the Novosibirsk State University will open the exhibition “Science in Faces” – a gallery of portraits of outstanding Russian scientists, engineers, authors of innovative developments, and laureates of the Russian Presidential Prize in Science and Innovation for Young Scientists.
In 2024, the heroine of the Science in Faces project was a graduate Faculty of Natural Sciences of NSU, head of the gene immunotherapy group at the M.M. Shemyakin and Yu.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Irina Alekseenko is the developer of a non-viral gene therapy drug for the treatment of cancer.
The drug for the treatment of solid tumors, developed by Irina Alekseenko’s team, was the first in Russia to receive permission to conduct a clinical trial. The first phase of the study involved patients for whom traditional treatment methods had been exhausted, with a number of patients showing positive dynamics and stabilization of the disease, and none of the patients had serious adverse events associated with the drug.
Irina Alekseenko will talk about the development and research during the events scientific and production forum of NSU “Golden Valley”, which will take place October 31-November 1. She will be a speaker in the section “Medicine and Pharmaceutical Industry” and will also hold a meeting with university students.
Among the heroes of the exhibition are also young Novosibirsk scientists: Ekaterina Grizanova, PhD in Biology, leading research fellow at the Novosibirsk State Agrarian University; Sergey Pavlushin, PhD in Biology, senior research fellow at the Laboratory of Ecological Physiology at the Institute of Animal Taxonomy and Ecology of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, who have been awarded the Russian Presidential Prize in different years; and Sergey Adonin, Doctor of Chemical Sciences, leading research fellow at the A.V. Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
The exhibition “Science in Faces” will be available for visiting in the educational building (1 Pirogova St.), in the lobby of the second floor until November 1. The exposition will include portraits of participants in all three seasons of the project – authors of innovative developments and scientific achievements in the field of medicine and biotechnology, IT technologies, transport, metallurgy, space industry, mining and petrochemistry, agriculture, nuclear industry and others. In particular, the heroes of the third season were the authors of a bioprinter for “growing” tissues from cellular material, units of spacecraft of the federal project “SPHERE”, domestic AURUS cars, the Russian neural network Kandinsky, catalysts for petrochemistry and other developments.
In the fall of 2024, the Science in Faces exhibition will be presented at the sites of the largest Russian universities in the country’s regions, and in a number of universities, the project’s heroes will give live lectures and talk about their scientific achievements, the development of Russian science, and career prospects for young scientists in various fields.
Portraits of key representatives of Russian science and technology sector can be seen in universities of Novosibirsk, Kazan, St. Petersburg, Arkhangelsk, Vladivostok, Nizhny Novgorod, Perm, Tyumen, Ufa, Samara, Berdyansk. In November, the exhibition will be presented at the IV Congress of Young Scientists on the federal territory “Sirius”.
The exhibition “Science in Faces” is part of the “Science Nearby” initiative of the Decade of Science and Technology, declared by the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation. The exhibition is held with the grant support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation and with the support of the Coordinating Council for Youth Affairs in the Scientific and Educational Spheres of the Council under the President of the Russian Federation for Science and Education. The project partner is SIBUR.
Information about the project heroes is available on the Decade of Science and Technology website:https://science.rf.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
27 September 2024 – A petition has been launched today calling on the leaders of all our political parties to consider a capital gains tax in Aotearoa.
Tax Justice Aotearoa’s petition seeks to level the playing field of the current tax system and highlights the urgent need for more revenue to fund essential services and infrastructure.
“Our tax system is way out of balance and a capital gains tax (CGT) is a good first step that would help level the playing field between wage earners and those who mainly earn their money through investments,” says Tax Justice Aotearoa chair Glenn Barclay.
“There has been growing support for a capital gains tax from a range of individuals and organisations in the media in recent weeks and it is timely to give the public of New Zealand the opportunity to express their support too.
“The additional revenue raised could be used to fund vital services such as education, healthcare and infrastructure and to help address climate change, leading to a better quality of life for all New Zealanders.”
ActionStation is hosting the petition and Director Kassie Hartendorp agrees it’s time to make capitalgains tax a reality.
“Just over 72% of the members we talked to support a capital gains tax – including 18% of those people who would benefit from that tax and yet still thought it would have a positive impact.
“Our country is ready to join many others around the world, and just make it happen.”
It’s a kaupapa shared across a range of advocacy groups including Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG).
“We welcome a discussion on capital gains tax, especially this week when the Minister for Child Poverty Reduction rejected a $3 billion proposal from officials that would have kept us on track to achieving the goal of halving child poverty by 2028,” says CPAG Executive Officer Sarita Divis.
“This is at the same time the government is giving tax cuts of $2.9 billion for landlords, allowing them to deduct interest as an expense and receive tax free capital gains on sales of their houses.
“Taxes allow us to do the things we want to do as a nation, like ending child poverty,” Sarita Divis says.
New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) also backed the petition.
“Fairer taxes would support appropriate levels of health funding and better patient outcomes by enabling safe levels of health care professional to patient ratios,” says Anne Daniels, President of the NZ Nurses Organisation.
Another organisation supporting the petition was the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions.
“The NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi strongly believes that our current tax system isn’t fit for purpose and isn’t delivering the outcomes New Zealanders deserve,” says Craig Renney, NZCTU Economist and Director of Policy.
“Workers pay tax on every dollar earned, while those who make huge capital gains pay nothing at all.
“Levelling the playing field through a well-designed CGT would benefit workers, the economy, and the housing market while delivering revenue to invest in underfunded public services.
“There is a reason why so many other countries have a CGT and continue to do better than Aotearoa,” Craig Renney says.
It was a message shared by the Public Service Association (PSA).
“The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi believes we need a fairer tax system that helps properly fund public and community services, so that they are there when we need them,” says Kerry Davies, PSA’s national secretary.
“A capital gains tax should be part of a fair tax system that generates the revenue the Government needs to do its job of looking after all New Zealanders.”
Tax Justice Aotearoa calls on all New Zealanders to sign and share the petition to show their support for a fairer and more equitable tax system:
The Government today announced that Deputy Commissioner of Inland Revenue Benjamin Chan will succeed Tam Tai-pang as Commissioner of Inland Revenue on October 8. Mr Tam will begin pre-retirement leave on the same day.
Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung said Mr Chan has profound knowledge and experience in tax administration, adding that he also possesses outstanding management and leadership skills.
Mrs Yeung said she is confident that Mr Chan will be able to lead the Inland Revenue Department to meet the challenges ahead.
At the same time, Mrs Yeung praised Mr Tam for his service.
“Mr Tam has served with zeal and professionalism, and has made relentless efforts in enhancing the efficiency and service quality of the department. He has also upheld Hong Kong’s good reputation in the international tax community.”
She wished Mr Tam a fulfilling and happy retirement.
Federal CouncilBern, 27.09.2024 – The Federal Audit Office (FAO) is to review the provisions on quality assurance for data and forecasts used in legislative processes. The Federal Council decided this at its meeting today. The review should help ensure that the Federal Council, Parliament and citizens have the best possible basis for making decisions. Data and forecasts are of great importance to the legislative process as they shape it from the consultation phase, to the parliamentary debate, up to a possible popular vote. The Federal Council has therefore asked the FAO to review the adequacy and effectiveness of the existing provisions and aids for quality assurance of data and forecasts. The FAO must also review the quality of the databases, models and processes used in the Federal Council’s dispatches and voting explanations. The FAO acts autonomously and independently within the framework of the legal provisions. It has accepted the Federal Council’s proposal and will implement it as part of the 2025 annual programme. Incorrect data and inaccurate forecasts can cast doubt on the decisions of the Federal Council, Parliament and, if a bill is put to a vote, the citizens. The Federal Council therefore decided on 15 January 2020 to take measures to ensure that the legislative process has objective and up-to-date decision-making bases. For example, quantitative data must now be presented clearly and with an indication of the source from the consultation stage onwards, and in the case of estimates, information on their reliability must be provided. The SFAO will also review the implementation of the measures decided by the Federal Council on 15 January 2020 in the practice of all departments. It will also assess whether general measures can be derived from the ongoing administrative investigation into the incorrect estimation of AHV forecasts. Finally, it will examine whether the conclusions drawn in the Federal Tax Administration from the issue of the tax penalty for marriage are consistently observed throughout the Federal Administration. The SFAO independently determines the final verification questions. Reliable data and forecasts not only strengthen legislation, but also the public’s trust in the political process and the instruments of direct democracy.Address for questionsUrs BrudererHead of the Communications Section058 483 99 69urs.bruderer@bk.admin.chPublished byThe Federal Councilhttps://www.admin.ch/gov/it/pagina-iniziale.htmlFederal Chancelleryhttps://www.bk.admin.ch/bk/it/home.html
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EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
Innovation barns that could house workshops and offices
More skilled jobs and a place for Plymouth’s marine businesses to innovate and collaborate – that’s all part of the vision for the next stage of the Oceansgate development which has now been submitted to planners.
A planning application has been submitted this week for a series of innovation barns – high spec large industrial units for use as workshops and prototyping along with project offices.
Over 1,700 square metres of high-quality space within eight units is being planned to expand the existing Oceansgate complex, which is already home to 14 light industrial units and 12 offices.
Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Plymouth is at the forefront of marine innovation and a key part of its success is enabling businesses to collaborate with each other and test prototypes.
“The first two phases have regenerated and revived land that had been unused by the MOD for decades. There are over 170 people employed directly or indirectly thanks to Oceansgate.
“We need to make sure Plymouth stays at the forefront of marine innovation and this is the ideal place to help make this happen.
“South Yard was literally built for the city’s marine industry – an industry which changes all the time. These proposals should help the city of Plymouth continue to lead in this key sector.”
The planning application proposes two buildings that would be similar in style, but a higher specification to the already high-spec offices and industrial units at Oceansgate. The Oceansgate development has been built to reflect the historic nature of South Yard as well as the street pattern outside its boundaries with natural material such as limestone.
The next phase promises to be even greener and built to the latest low carbon building specifications. Features include renewable energy systems, the use of lower carbon materials – such as sustainably sourced timber, stone, and recycled building materials, orientation of the buildings for heat/shade, efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. There will also be cycle parking and EV charge facilities.
Historic England have been part of the pre-application discussions along with the Council’s planning department and it supports the Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan.
The Plymouth and South Devon Freeport have allocated seed capital grant of £3.256 million and the Council is service borrowing of £3.274m to fund the plans.
Securing the City Deal nearly 10 years ago helped lay the foundations for the city’s marine and maritime innovation sector to thrive. South Yard is now a key part of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport and offers specific tax and relief benefits for companies based within it, incentivising employers to invest and create new jobs.
The Freeport’s Tax Site at South Yard will support the marine and defence sectors by providing a focal point for technological advances in these arenas. It is the South West’s prime location for marine and maritime capability with direct waterfront access to docks, deep water jetties, land, offices and workshops for testing, trialling, and prototyping.
CHONGQING, China, Sept. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nadero Wealth Management, a leading financial services company based in Chongqing, is proud to announce the opening of its new tax consultancy office in Jersey in a move designed to enhance its international presence and provide comprehensive tax services to clients in the region. This strategic expansion accentuates the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional financial solutions that meet the diverse needs of businesses operating within and beyond the Channel Islands.
New Office Location and Services Offered
The new St Helier office offers a wide range of tax-related services, including corporate tax planning, compliance advisory, personal taxation, and cross-border taxation strategies. The highly qualified team has extensive experience in both local and international tax regulations, ensuring that clients receive expert guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Strategic Importance of Jersey
Jersey is renowned for its robust financial services sector and favorable business environment. As a leading offshore jurisdiction, it provides numerous advantages for companies looking to optimize their tax strategies while ensuring compliance with global standards. By establishing a presence in Jersey, Nadero aims to support local businesses as well as international clients seeking to navigate the complexities of taxation in this unique market.
Commitment to Client Success
“We are excited about this new chapter for our company,” said Dennis Zheng, CEO of Nadero. “Our goal is to empower our clients with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in an increasingly complex global landscape. With our new office in Jersey, we are better positioned than ever to provide personalized service and innovative solutions that drive growth.”
About Nadero
Founded in 2010, Nadero Wealth Management has established itself as a trusted global provider of financial services. With a focus on integrity, innovation, and client satisfaction, the company has built a reputation for excellence across various sectors. The opening of the Jersey office marks an important step in its mission to expand while maintaining high standards of service.
Disclaimer: This content is provided by the sponsor. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information shared in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment, financial, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you conduct thorough research and consult with a professional financial advisor before making any investment or trading decisions. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.
MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –
Last week, a representative delegation of the rector’s office of the State University of Management made a working trip to the southern regions of Russia, visiting Rostov-on-Don and the Donetsk People’s Republic. Meanwhile, our experts turned their attention to the increase in pensions, fines for dangerous driving and car prices after October 1. Also, the curious reader is invited to read about emotional intelligence, cash flow gap, principles of the Scrum management methodology, methods of counteracting high inflation and find out in which countries of the world it is the lowest.
— Director of the Institute of Economics and Finance of the State University of Management Galina Sorokina recalled the increase in pensions for Russians over 80 years old from October 1. “This form of social support for long-livers is important, since with age, more funds are needed for medicines and help with the household, especially since people over 80 in Russia make up about 3.6% of the total population,” the expert noted. — Also, from October 1, military pensions will be indexed, which Galina Sorokina also reminds about. She listed the categories of citizens who are considered military pensioners: former military personnel, persons who served in the Internal Affairs Directorate, the State Fire Service, the National Guard and other categories, including family members of deceased military personnel. — Galina Sorokina also told what the minimum wage will be in 2025. “The amount of the subsistence minimum depends on the region and the population group – the working-age population, children and pensioners. Regions can also set their own minimum wage, which, however, should not be lower than the Russian average,” explains the economist.
— Associate Professor of the Department of Economic Policy and Economic Measurements of the Institute of Economics and Finance of the State University of Management Maxim Chirkov appreciated the initiative to pay Russian pensioners the 13th pension. “From my point of view, such an initiative is quite realistic. Although inflation remains quite high, it has begun to decline. Therefore, increasing the incomes of pensioners becomes a top priority, since they are often the most vulnerable part of Russian society,” the economist said.
— Maxim Chirkov also explained why in Russia they want to limit online installment payments. “If these restrictions are not in place, it turns out that the established institutions that are supposed to limit citizens’ risks, including credit risks, may turn out to be useless and the risks will increase,” the expert explained.
— Maxim Chirkov also outlined the relationship between inflation and public sector salaries. “The Russian economy is growing sharply in the areas of IT, finance, manufacturing, including manufacturing, and others. Under these conditions, civil servants may leave their jobs to take high-paying jobs. Therefore, it is necessary to raise salaries for public sector employees and compare them not with inflation, but with the growth of the average salary in the country,” explained Maxim Chirkov.
— In addition, Maxim Chirkov commented on Putin’s statement about working on the creation of a BRICS payment circuit. “The creation of such a system is a logical continuation of the move away from the dollar, financial systems and organizations that have centers in Western countries. Of course, an analogue of SWIFT will be created, that is, a system of interbank transfers, payment systems for individuals using plastic cards,” Chirkov said.
— Head of the Department of World Economy and International Economic Relations at the State University of Management Evgeny Smirnov made assumptions about the purposes of the proposed visit of IMF representatives to Russia. “Considering that the IMF is considered a “pro-Western” organization, the visit may also be connected with an attempt to obtain data on the net income Russia receives from participation in international trade by publishing statistics on the external sector,” the expert suspects.
— Director of the Russian Center for Socio-Economic and Political Research of China at the State University of Management Fanis Sharipov commented on the Moscow BRICS Forum and Symposium on Public Administration. The expert noted that the BRICS association is committed to supporting sustainable development and mutually beneficial cooperation. “The West does not agree to give up its positions. But the world is entering a new era of global economic relations, where the role of the East and the South is growing,” said Fanis Sharipov.
— Associate Professor of the Department of Institutional Economics of the State University of Management Svetlana Sazanova named the countries with the lowest inflation over the past year. These are China (-0.1%), Switzerland (1.6%), Saudi Arabia (2%), Spain (2.6%), and the Netherlands (3%). “Creeping inflation, within 10%, even has a stimulating effect on the economy, because producers, as a rule, perceive such price increases as increased demand for their products and, in response, increase their production,” the economist notes. — Svetlana Sazanova also explained the reasons for the growth of the Russian economy. In general, economic growth in Russia in 2024 cannot be considered to be caused only by defense orders and an increase in the money supply in the hands of the population. It is also caused by its structural restructuring: an increase in the share of the manufacturing industry and related industries,” the expert is convinced. — Svetlana Sazanova and Associate Professor of the Department of Institutional Economics of the State University of Management Konstantin Andrianov discussed what awaits the United States as a result of the growth of the national debt. “The issue of solving the national debt problem will be postponed until the next president. At the moment, the US debt is about 120% of GDP, which significantly limits the possibilities for stimulating the economy with the help of budget and tax policy,” noted Svetlana Sazanova. “Countries have begun to withdraw their foreign exchange reserves and gold from American depositories, which could lead to a collapse of the dollar exchange rate. The scale of this fall is difficult to predict, but it could be multiple,” said Konstantin Andrianov.
— Associate Professor of the Department of Institutional Economics of the State University of Management and expert of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation Konstantin Andrianov discussed possible changes in exchange rates after the lifting of sanctions. “At the moment, it is impossible to predict the exact value of the dollar after the sanctions are lifted. We don’t even know when these sanctions will be lifted. Sanctions are in the hands of countries guided by anti-Russian policies, and their political elites are gripped by Russophobia,” the expert said.
— Konstantin Andrianov also named the reasons and methods of countering high inflation in Russia. “Since mid-summer, the exchange rate of our national currency has fallen by 7% against the dollar and euro, and by 8% against the yuan, although nothing negative has happened in the economy. This significantly affects the level of inflation; for stable prices we need a stable ruble,” the economist said.
— In addition, Konstantin Andrianov assessed the extension of sanctions against the Moscow Exchange. “If the ruble has successfully withstood the sanctions against the Moscow Exchange adopted in June of this year, then it is unlikely that anything else from the outside can become more or less a serious threat for it,” the expert is sure.
— Konstantin Andrianov and Deputy Director of the IFE GUM Valeria Ivanova also predicted changes in the euro exchange rate in the event of some countries leaving the EU. “A sharp collapse in the exchange rate is possible due to the loss of investor confidence in the euro as a stable currency. Also, a sharp collapse is possible, especially if the exit of these countries becomes a signal for others, which will lead to a chain reaction,” noted Valeria Ivanova. Konstantin Andrianov notes that the situation in the eurozone remains extremely unstable. Against the background of the refusal of Germany and other EU countries from Russian energy resources, macroeconomic problems began to intensify in many European countries, including France and Italy.
— Associate Professor of the Department of Transport Complex Management at the State University of Management Artem Merenkov warned about the increase in prices for cars from October 1. “There is a stock of cars at old prices. That is, this will definitely not be a momentary adjustment. Nevertheless, we can say that a price increase of 5-10% is possible before the end of the year,” the expert believes. — Artem Merenkov also assessed the State Duma’s decision to increase the fine for dangerous driving to 5,000 rubles from October 1. “Whether it will help or not is a matter of time and a combination of actions. Such measures work in a complex. If we look at the data from the State Traffic Safety Inspectorate, we will see that the number of accidents on the roads is decreasing, that is, systematic work definitely yields results,” the specialist said.
— Professor of the Department of Accounting, Auditing and Taxation of the State University of Management Olga Ageeva told how to determine the profit and loss of a business. “The amount of net profit for the period indicates the same growth in the company’s net assets. In turn, net loss is associated with their decrease by the same amount. And as is known, net assets are what will remain to the owners in the event of liquidation of the enterprise,” the expert noted.
— Associate Professor of the Department of Economic Policy and Economic Measurements of the State University of Management Natalia Kazantseva reported on the crisis in the area of family mortgages. “The funds allocated from the state budget to support family mortgages have almost been exhausted. Many banks have already stopped accepting orders for their registration, the remaining limits are not enough for its rapid development. This means that the real estate market will have to survive in the current market conditions, where the price of housing is determined by its laws,” the expert noted. — Natalia Kazantseva also spoke about what a cash gap is and how to avoid it. “Daily monitoring of cash balances at the beginning of the day, receipts and expenses will help to avoid a cash gap, this advice is especially relevant for small and medium-sized enterprises. It is important to use electronic document management and negotiate with suppliers, apply installment and deferment tools,” the economist advises.
— Candidate of Psychological Sciences, Associate Professor of the State University of Management Svetlana Grishaeva commented on the State Duma initiative to ban childfree propaganda. “Childfree propaganda forms attitudes towards childlessness, the less such propaganda and such movements there are, the more likely it is that attitudes towards childlessness will decrease. Children and teenagers are easily influenced by something new, so movements like childfree have imitators and followers,” the psychologist said. — Svetlana Grishaeva also explained in detail what emotional intelligence is. “It is the ability to understand the emotions of other people and the ability to control your feelings. But to control is not the same as not to experience, so you should not think that a low-emotional person has a high level of EI, because emotions are our helpers in many situations,” the expert noted.
— Senior lecturer of the HR department of the State University of Management Ekaterina Illarionova spoke about the principles of the Scrum management methodology. “The peculiarity of Scrum is that the team works on only one product. This is more expensive than the typical assignment of one specialist to several projects, but this is a story from the series about the stingy who pays twice,” the expert says.
— Vladimir Popov, Associate Professor of the Department of Private Law at the State University of Management, commented on the new fine from the Ministry of Transport for carrying foreign objects while driving. The Associate Professor believes that this could create problems for drivers. “After all, if a driver eats or drinks while driving, he is also distracted, which increases the likelihood of an accident, but I do not propose banning such behavior yet,” the expert noted.
— Doctor of Political Sciences, Professor of the State University of Management Viktor Titov discusses the possibilities of reconciliation between Iran and Israel. “Firstly, a very strong argument “for” a partial easing of the Iranian-Israeli confrontation is the fatigue of Israeli society: both from the war that began in October 2023 and from the long-term, virtually permanent confrontation with the Islamic world,” the expert believes.
These are the topics covered by the experts of the State University of Management this week. Conclusions later, and now let’s run to the anniversary final of the State University of Management KVN League!
Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 09/27/2024
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Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California
Hearing Underscored Devastating Harm of Project 2025 on Democracy, Reproductive Freedom, Workers, Seniors, and More
September 26, 2024
Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (CA-02), Founder of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force and Member of the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, helped lead an historic hearing on Trump’s Project 2025 and its devastating impact on families across America. The hearing was hosted by the Steering and Policy Committee in collaboration with House Democratic Leadership and the Stop Project 2025 Task Force.
Representative Huffman highlighted some of the most prominent threats posed by Project 2025 and how a second Trump administration would consolidate power in the Oval Office so that Trump and his loyalists can seize total control of the government and impose their agenda on every person in America. Featuring testimony from everyday people who know firsthand how the policies of Trump’s Project 2025 have or will hurt them and their families, the hearing explored the impact of proposals to criminalize abortion nationwide, hurt the middle class with higher costs, cut taxes for the wealthiest corporations and billionaires, and end Social Security and Medicare as we know it.
A full transcript of Congressman Huffman’s testimony is available below and full video is available here.
Transcription:
PART ONE
REP. HUFFMAN:Trump’s Project 2025 is not some fresh set of ideas. It’s a culmination of years of work by extreme MAGA Republicans.
When he was president, Donald Trump hand-picked three extreme Supreme Court justices – the same justices who overturned Roe v. Wade.
This summer, those Trump-appointed justices gave Trump a huge gift: absolute immunity from criminal charges. Think about that. Donald Trump, back in the White House, with a blank check to do whatever he wants without ever facing criminal prosecution.
What will Trump do with all of that power? Now we know.
Because his loyalists wrote it down.
It’s called Project 2025. Let’s take a look at how it came together, and who was involved…
[VIDEO BEGINS]
PART TWO
REP. HUFFMAN: So, Project 2025 is Trump’s manifesto to turn our federal government into a tool of MAGA extremism… And the first step is to eliminate checks on presidential power – anything and anyone that could stand in Trump’s way: Firing tens of thousands of career civil servants and then replacing them with MAGA loyalists. Directing the FBI, the Justice Department, and the IRS to investigate Trump’s perceived enemies. Even deploying active-duty military on our streets.
It’s downright scary.
More than 140 former Trump officials contributed to Trump’s Project 2025. Extremists like Stephen Miller and sycophants like Mark Meadows.
And while most of the Trump Project 2025 blueprint is online – and you can read it – they’ve kept a critical part hidden from the public eye.
The architects of Trump’s Project 2025 acknowledge they have a secret 180-Day Playbook of early actions for Trump to swiftly enact their extreme agenda – they call it their “fourth pillar.”
Why publish 922 pages of breathtakingly extreme proposals, but keep the implementation plan secret?
We can only assume that Project 2025’s secret “Fourth Pillar” for the first days and weeks of a second Trump presidency is even more alarming than the parts of Trump’s Project 2025 that they were willing to publish.
That should scare every American.
Because the published parts of Trump’s Project 2025 are frightening enough, beginning with criminalizing abortion nationwide with no exceptions.
At this time, I want to yield to my friend from Massachusetts, a critical partner on our Stop Project 2025 Task Force, Representative Ayanna Pressley.
—
This Congress, Rep. Huffman was elected to serve on the powerful House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, which is responsible for appointing members of the House Democratic Caucus to committee seats and shaping caucus priorities.
Rep. Huffman founded the Stop Project 2025 Task Force in June 2024 to raise awareness about Project 2025 and coordinate the effort to examine, preempt and counteract it.
As the leader of the Task Force, Rep. Huffman has repeatedly sounded the alarm on Project 2025, a bucket list of extremist policies that would uproot every government agency to take over the government, eliminate checks and balances, and roll back rights and freedoms.
In October 2024, the Task Force is supporting House Democrats in holding local roundtables and townhalls around the country to examine, discuss, and highlight Project 2025 with their communities.
In September 2024, Rep. Huffman co-hosted a Special Order Hour and Week of Action in collaboration with House Democrats to highlight the threat of Project 2025.
On August 6, 2024, Rep. Huffman demanded Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts come before Congress and release Project 2025’s secret 180-day plan. Following the Heritage Foundation’s failure to meet the requested deadline, Huffman and his Task Force launched a tip line for members of the public to come forward with any information about the hidden “Fourth Pillar” of Project 2025.
On July 30, 2024, Rep. Huffman issued a statement on reports that Paul Dans is stepping down from his role as the head of Project 2025.
On July 17, 2024, Rep. Huffman sent a letter calling out the FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr for crafting part of Project 2025 in his official capacity as an executive-level employee of the federal government.