Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)
President Trump and Republicans in Congress are already starting trade wars and driving up costs for people. Now, their budget would pillage our government and target peoples’ healthcare—all to gift $7 billion in tax giveaways to huge corporations and billionaires. It’s a cruel, fiscally reckless grift. I voted ‘no.’
Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)
Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) issued the following statement after voting against the Republican budget bill that would cut health care, food assistance, and other critical benefits to give $7 trillion in tax breaks to billionaires:
“Any way you square it, this Republican budget bill is a gift to billionaires at the expense of hardworking families. This disastrous legislation paves the way for Republicans to cut health care for 1.4 million Oregonians, slash food assistance for thousands of seniors and veterans in my district, and decimate Social Security and Medicare – all so they can give massive tax breaks to their mega rich donors. My Democratic colleagues and I stood united in our opposition to this cruel and shameful legislation, and we will keep fighting to protect our constituents’ hard-earned money and benefits from the ongoing Republican Rip Off.”
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Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)
April 10, 2025
For Immediate Release: April 10, 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) introduced the Vote at Home Act to provide a new path forward on voting that makes elections more accessible, more secure, and more affordable. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) also intends to introduce a companion bill in the Senate.
House Republican leadership also brought the SAVE Act to the floor for a vote today – a bill that threatens to put at risk the ability for millions of Americans to register to vote. This includes 69 million married women who have changed their last name, and 140 million Americans who do not have a passport.
Conversely, the Vote at Home Act expands vote by mail initiatives which several states, including Oregon, have found successfully increases voter participation. This was also the case nationally in 2020, when despite a global pandemic, the general election had record high turnout as a result of more vote by mail options. Vote by mail also lowers the cost of holding elections. For example, after the state of Oregon adopted vote by mail, the cost of administering an election dropped nearly 30 percent.
“Oregon was the first state to enact full vote by mail in 1995, an effort led by both Democratic and Republican Secretaries of State,” said Rep. Hoyle. “We have seen the positive impact that mail in voting has had in Oregon – not only does it improve access for eligible voters, but every ballot has a paper copy making it the most secure form of voting. Voting is a Constitutionally protected right and I’ll fight to make sure every eligible voter can make their voice heard. I am proud to introduce legislation that does exactly that.”
“For years, Oregonians have been casting their ballot right from the comfort of their own home,” Sen. Wyden said. “Voting at home is not only efficient and secure, but it also gives working Americans who can’t afford to go off the clock the ability to exercise their fundamental right to vote. With Trump and his MAGA pals trying to take away voting rights for millions of Americans, it’s more important than ever for Congress to do right by the American people by ensuring they can make their voices heard in the 2026 elections and have a government that represents them.”
The Vote at Home Act is endorsed by the National Vote at Home Institute, Stand Up America, End Citizens United/Let America Vote Action Fund, and the Institute for Responsive Government Action.
Barbara Smith Warner, the Executive Director of the National Vote at Home Institute: “If you want to support and strengthen our democracy, there’s no better way than to support Vote at Home election systems. When every active registered voter automatically receives a mailed out paper ballot, several weeks before every election; can return them by postage-free mail or in person to a wide range of accessible, convenient and secure locations; and can track them online, in real time, to ensure their vote is counted, we all win.”
Brett Edkins, Managing Director of Policy and Political Affairs at Stand Up America: “Voting by mail is essential for millions of Americans––including working people, college students, rural residents, and seniors––who rely on it to make their voices heard. It provides a secure and convenient way to cast our ballots, especially for those who face challenges getting to the polls due to long distances, hectic work schedules, and other barriers. The Vote at Home Act is a crucial step toward strengthening our democracy by ensuring every voter has the option to cast their ballot from home, return it with a pre-paid envelope, and be automatically registered at their local DMV. We are grateful to Senator Wyden and Representative Hoyle for continuing to champion the freedom to vote in Congress.”
Tiffany Muller, President of End Citizens United Action Fund: “While Republicans in Congress and across the country try to make it harder for women, seniors, and young voters to cast a ballot, Congresswoman Hoyle and Senator Wyden are fighting to protect every American’s ability to vote without unnecessary barriers. The Vote at Home Act meets this moment by expanding access, increasing security, and making the voting process more convenient. This commonsense solution will ensure that more Americans can make their voices heard in government. We thank Congresswoman Hoyle and Senator Wyden for their continued leadership in defending our Constitutional right to the ballot box.”
This bill is co-sponsored by 13 of Rep. Hoyle’s colleagues, including Reps. Bonamici (OR-01), Carson (IN-07), Chu (CA-28), Deluzio (PA-17), Dexter (OR-03), (Hank) Johnson (GA-04), Norton (DC-AL), Salinas (OR-06), Schakowsky (IL-09), Tlaib (MI-12), Tonko (NY-20), Veasey (TX-33), and Watson Coleman (NJ-12).
The text of the Vote at Home Act is available here.
Background
The Vote at Home Act
Ensures all voters have a chance to research their ballots. By sending all registered voters their ballot weeks before Election Day, voters will have the opportunity to carefully study the candidates and issues before casting their ballots.
SAVE Act
Under the SAVE Act over 20 million Americans would become ineligible to vote and those who have changed their name, for example in marriage, could also be purged from voter rolls.
Last month, President Trump issued an Executive Order that included many of the SAVE Act’s prescriptions which makes it more difficult to vote and requires onerous additional verification when registering.
Many of the SAVE Act’s provisions can be found in a similar New Hampshire law that took effect this year. Under this law, women who had changed their name in marriage were forced to re-register to vote and provide proof of their name change before obtaining their registration.
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Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation
10th April 2025
Niamh Smyth, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with His Excellency Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, on the 10th of April in Dubai establishing a new Joint Economic Commission between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates.
Joint Economic Commissions are a valuable forum for officials to discuss and exchange information and consult on trade and economic issues. This agreement builds on longstanding links and cooperation between the two countries and enhances the bi-lateral relationship between Ireland and the UAE.
Bilateral trade between Ireland and the UAE with a value of nearly €8 billion annually, positions the UAE as Ireland’s largest trading partner in the Arab world.
Minister Smyth said:
“I would like to thank our Ambassador, Alison Milton, and her staff for their work in promoting our bilateral relations in the region. The warm reception I received today from Minister Thani Al Zeyoudi and his team is a reflection of the friendship that has grown over the last fifty years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and the UAE. It is very fitting that this agreement is being signed on the same day as Ireland is marking 50 years of diplomatic relations with the UAE.
“In that time, both of our countries have enjoyed sustained growth in our respective economies. That growth would not have been possible without our State Agencies, Enterprise Ireland, Bord Bia, the IDA, and Tourism Ireland, who work tirelessly to promote Ireland here in the UAE. Through these collective efforts, the bilateral relationship has reached truly remarkable heights.
“The Joint Economic Commission will give a new forum for further collaboration in areas such as trade and investment, aviation, education and research, renewable energy and green technology, healthcare and life sciences. Once fully established, it will serve as a vehicle to enhance internal cooperation and coordination, strengthening Ireland’s partnership with one of the most dynamic economies in the world, and one with huge potential for increased bilateral trade and investment.”
His Excellency Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi said:
“The relationship between the UAE and Ireland is one of mutual respect and shared ambition. With a foundation built on trade and cooperation, we are well-positioned to explore new avenues for investment and collaboration. The signing of this MoU is a testament to our commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and unlocking the significant potential that exists between our two countries.”
Notes to the Editors
Ireland currently maintains active Joint Economic Commissions (JECs) with China, Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Korea which facilitate dialogue at official level across a range of economic, trade, investment, innovation and science and technology fields. This signing of this agreement with the UAE establishes a new JEC.
JECs provide a valuable forum for exchanges and experience-sharing regarding economic and industrial policies. They can act as a platform to progress mutually beneficial trade and investment promotion, raise market access or regulatory issues and support closer cooperation in priority areas such as science, innovation and technology, education, connectivity, labour markets, green and digital transformations, supply chain resilience, tourism and culture, agriculture and food security, health, aviation and aerospace, and cybersecurity. The format allows partners to receive a response on important trade and investment issues, to discuss WTO developments and to increase awareness of our countries and respective enterprise and economic priorities among key decision makers. A JEC can also provide a mechanism for progressing matters proposed already, for example, under previously suggested MoUs.
On the Irish side, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment continue to lead on establishing and coordinating Ireland’s approach to JECs. In general, JECs meet on a biennial basis, at senior official level, with location alternating between the partners.
ENDS
Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent
Published: Thursday, 10th April 2025
Work is underway on a multi-million-pound school project to provide more first-class learning opportunities for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The £11.5 million scheme will see the construction of a new satellite facility to the existing Watermill School in Packmoor.
It will help more Stoke-on-Trent children get the education and support they need closer to their homes.
Stoke-on-Trent-based Seddon Construction Ltd has been awarded the contract to construct the new building complex on Turnhurst Road, which will accommodate up to 70 pupils and is funded through the city council’s Schools Capital Programme.
A ground-breaking ceremony took place on April 9 to officially launch the start of work. The building is expected to be completed by July 2026 – and it is set to be open to pupils from September 2026.
The satellite school is being built on the site of the former Middlehurst School, which was closed in 2014 and demolished in 2022 – bringing a vacant site back into use.
Watermill School, which became an Academy in 2019 as part of the Orchard Community Trust, has been designed to provide for a wide range of pupils’ needs to be addressed through educational, social, physical and emotional growth for three-to-16-year-olds.
Pupils at the school all have learning difficulties of some kind – this may include moderate, severe, physical and multiple learning difficulties and autism.
Councillor Sarah Jane Colclough, cabinet member for education and anti-poverty at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The Watermill School satellite will help expand on the vital work it does in creating an inclusive environment that values diversity and equality and provides strong foundations for pupils to thrive and accomplish their goals in life.
“We’re committed to ensuring that we have an agreed vision across the city, and our partnerships, so that children and young people with SEND have the right support, at the right time, delivered by the right people.
“Making sure that children can access the support they need in their local communities is a really important part of this, so I’m really pleased that we are increasing the number of SEND school places available in the city.”
Councillor Finlay Gordon McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This project is another clear sign that we are regenerating Stoke-on-Trent for the benefit of everyone.
“Seddon has been involved at every step of the process, through the pre-construction design and planning phase. Their appointment as the main contractor will see this exciting and much-needed development moving forward at pace.”
It is the latest project that Seddon is working on for the council. In December, the company was appointed to carry out the £5 million transformation of the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery.
Lee Shaw, Commercial Manager at Seddon, said: “This is a project we’re deeply proud to be delivering – not just because of the difference it will make to children and families, but because it represents a strong collaboration between experienced, regional partners. We’re excited to be on site and to see the vision start to take shape.”
Watermill School Head Teacher Jen Lomas said: “Watermill School and Orchard Community Trust are delighted to be part of the expansion of special school places within Stoke-on-Trent. We are planning with Seddon, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and other partners to ensure that our expansion will support the delivery of our carefully designed inclusive curriculum.”
Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
As a result of a number of non-compliances that have gone unremedied by the provider, Jobs, Economy and Trade has put Play ‘N’ Fun Day Care on a probationary licence with a term to expire on July 9. Child Care Licensing is closely monitoring the program.
The licence holder is required to notify all parents of their probationary status and provide evidence of notification to the Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Trade. Families looking for alternative child-care options can contact Child Care Connect toll free at 1-844-644-5165 for information on other licenced programs or use the Child Care Look-up tool.
Anyone with concerns about a child-care program in their community or needing to report an incident can call Child Care Connect toll free at 1-844-644-5165.
The vast majority of child-care providers and educators in Alberta are committed to the safety and well-being of the children in their care.
However, if a licenced child-care program is unable to meet the standards set out by Alberta’s government, it can be subject to enforcement action, including suspension of its licence and probation. Through continued monitoring, further enforcement up to and including cancellation of a licence can occur if the level of risk continues or escalates.
If the licenced child-care program is unable to return to compliance during the probationary period, the suspended licence expires. Cancellation is the last resort with compliance being the goal.
Source: Government of Canada regional news
Josie Osborne, Minister of Health, has released the following statement on the fourth annual B.C. Indigenous Nurses Day, April 10, 2025:
“Today, April 10, is Indigenous Nurses Day, an opportunity to acknowledge, honour and celebrate Indigenous nurses for their incredible contributions to health care in British Columbia.
“We recognize the unique knowledge, experience and determination of generations of First Nations, Métis and Inuit nurses who have advanced Indigenous health care. Bringing expertise that is rooted in interconnection with the environment, community, and culture, Indigenous nurses are a crucial part of our health-care system, providing culturally safe and appropriate care to people in communities across the province.
“Indigenous nurses show ongoing dedication in creating and supporting culturally safe health services, programs and connections that increase Indigenous representation and access to evolving, team-based health care. Their contributions are essential to further develop and improve the quality of life, well-being and health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples in B.C.
“This day is an opportunity to recognize the work to dismantle harmful colonial practices and systems and to continue to move forward on commitments to provide Indigenous-specific cultural safety, trauma-informed practices, and anti-racism initiatives in our health-care system, upheld with the In Plain Sight report and B.C.’s Health Human Resources Strategy.
“It is with deep gratitude that we celebrate the achievements and contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit nurses, and reflect on the legacies of Canada’s first Indigenous nurses.
“Charlotte Edith Anderson Monture, a Kanien’kehà:ka woman who was Canada’s first Indigenous registered nurse, served in the First World War as a nurse and was the first Indigenous women to vote, is a founding point of reference as we move forward on this path.
“The life and work of Rose Casper, a St’at’imc woman and the first Indigenous nurse in Western Canada, who attended the Kamloops residential school and nursed for more than 50 years, is also a beacon of inspiration for Indigenous nurses, educators, and students helping to transform our health-care system.
“This is a day for Indigenous nurses and their allies to come together to preserve the cultural integrity and traditional knowledge they hold, and recognize their tenacity, courage, and activism to meet the health-care needs of Indigenous Peoples.
“Thank you to all Indigenous nurses for your amazing work and for ensuring access to integrated, trauma-informed, culturally safe health care for all.”
People using transit in Whistler this spring will see improved and expanded transit options with increased frequency and extended hours of service on several bus routes.
“People use public transit when it is reliable and affordable, when it can get them around their community to their work, school or to connect with friends and family,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This service expansion will keep transit services accessible and convenient for people who need them, when and where they need them.”
To support convenient and reliable transit service for people in Whistler and surrounding communities, BC Transit and the Province are partnering with the local government to expand services in the region with an additional 6,000 annual service hours. This builds on the work done in communities throughout B.C. to provide improved transit services and connect communities.
“Expanding transit service in Whistler is an important step toward a more connected, equitable local economy and community,” said Jeremy Valeriote, interim leader of the BC Greens and MLA for West Vancouver–Sea to Sky. “More service hours and improvements to key routes mean better access to convenient, reliable, affordable transportation, and less road congestion. I’m pleased that this expansion will continue to improve public transit options for Whistler.”
The additional service will begin on April 22, 2025, with year-round improvements on several routes, including 21 Spring Creek, 31 Alpine and 32 Emerald. Investing in the local transit system ensures that people in Whistler and its surrounding communities have continued access to the services they rely on. The additional 6,000 hours will help to reduce seasonal fluctuations in service levels previously experienced by transit riders in the region.
The Province has committed approximately $184 million in operating funding to BC Transit in 2025-26 to protect existing transit services and allow for targeted expansions that will benefit more people throughout B.C.
Source: Government of Canada regional news
Local governments and First Nations throughout the province will receive funding to improve emergency support services (ESS) for people evacuated from their homes during emergencies in British Columbia.
“Emergency support services can be a lifeline for people who have to leave their homes during disasters,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “By investing in training and equipment, we help to ensure people receive the support they need quickly and efficiently.”
The Province is providing more than $5 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), through the ESS equipment and training stream, for 113 projects. The funding will help communities expand their capacity to provide emergency support services, through volunteer recruitment and retention efforts, volunteer training and the purchase of ESS equipment.
“The people who provide Emergency Support Services are often the first source of respite and help for those impacted most by emergencies,” said Trish Mandewo, president, Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). “This funding will help make those services more robust and resilient so help is there when British Columbians need it. UBCM is pleased to administer this program in partnership with the Province.”
Local community projects include:
The CEPF is a suite of funding programs designed to help local governments and First Nations better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from natural hazards in a changing climate. These programs include public notification and evacuation-route planning, emergency operations centre equipment and training, volunteer and composite fire department equipment and training, and Indigenous cultural safety and humility training. Composite fire departments are those that have a mix of paid staff and volunteers.
Since its establishment in 2017, the Province has committed $369 million into CEPF. To date, approximately $315 million has been provided for approximately 2,400 projects across all CEPF streams. This fund is administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.
Quotes:
Danielle Veach, mayor, Village of Pouce Coupe –
“This funding for our mobile emergency response trailer will significantly enhance Pouce Coupe’s emergency preparedness and regional response capacity, and the fully equipped unit will strengthen on-site emergency services with power, communication tools and vital supplies. Beyond local needs, it will support regional emergency training and collaboration between local governments and Indigenous partners. This investment is a critical step toward a more connected, resilient and inclusive emergency response network across northeastern B.C.”
Chief Tom Nelson, Quatsino First Nation –
“This funding is helping Quatsino First Nation strengthen emergency preparedness and local response capacity. Investments in equipment such as digital registration tools, portable generators and comfort kits, along with volunteer training and mock disaster exercises, are helping us build a strong, community-led ESS program. These resources ensure we can respond quickly and confidently when emergencies arise, while also engaging and supporting our members to lead emergency response efforts on the ground.”
Chief Ron Giesbrecht, Kwikwetlem First Nation –
“This funding will significantly enhance our capacity for emergency response. The allocation of these resources will enable us to acquire essential group lodging supplies, office equipment, and registration systems. These enhancements will support timely and effective assistance during emergencies, ensuring first responders are well-prepared to meet community needs during an evacuation. This funding represents a vital step toward strengthening local resilience and improving the overall effectiveness of regional emergency response efforts.”
Ryan McVey, fire chief/protective services director, District of Fort St. James –
“This funding for equipment, training and recruitment will help the Nak’azdli Whut’en–Fort St. James joint ESS team strengthen the region’s ability to respond to emergencies. By investing in co-ordinated training and mutual support, this project continues to ensure our joint effort can assist not only those living in our community, but anyone in our northern region who needs essential services during an emergency.”
Mark Baker, chair, Strathcona Regional District Board –
“The support and compassionate care provided to displaced individuals depends greatly on the commitment of volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time to SRD’s emergency support services program. This funding will enhance both recognition and training for emergency support teams across eight communities, strengthening the heart of the region’s emergency response.”
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
For a backgrounder with details about CEPF recipients under the ESS Training and Equipment stream, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BKGRND_CEPF_Emergency_Support_Services_APRIL2025.pdf
For more information about Emergency Support Services, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/local-emergency-programs/ess
For more information about the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, visit:
https://www.ubcm.ca/funding-programs/local-government-program-services/community-emergency-preparedness-fund
Source: Government of Canada regional news
Released on April 10, 2025
The Royal Saskatchewan Museum (RSM) is monitoring urban wildlife in and around Regina to study how wildlife responds to urbanization and which parts of the city provide important wildlife habitat.
Twenty-eight biodiversity monitoring stations have been set up over the last three years. They include motion-triggered trail cameras to monitor large mammals and automated microphones to record bird songs and bat calls. The monitoring stations are evenly distributed at locations in the middle of the city, on the edges and in more natural areas well outside the city boundaries. They are active for one-month periods in the spring, summer, fall and winter.
“The Royal Saskatchewan Museum is not only an amazing museum – it is a centre for excellence when it comes to research,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Alana Ross said. “This is such a wonderful example of the innovative research taking place behind the scenes at the museum.”
Some of the hot spots for wildlife activity include the Habitat Conservation Area in Wascana Park, AE Wilson Park and the old Craig Golf Course.
“Urban centres like Regina can provide valuable habitat for the conservation and management of wildlife,” RSM Curator of Vertebrate Zoology Dr. Ryan Fisher said. “This research helps us understand how different levels of urban development influence wildlife. So far, we detected 143 different bird species and 15 mammal species.”
Not surprisingly, American Robins and the Canada Goose were the most common birds they recorded. While the White-tailed Jackrabbit and Richardson’s Ground Squirrel were the most common mammals observed on their cameras.
“Initial observations indicate no real impact from urbanization on the number of mammal species that we are seeing,” Dr. Fisher said. “This is likely because a lot of the mammals we observed around Regina are fairly well-adapted. Even in very urban areas such as the Regina Cemetery on 4th Avenue, we observed both deer and red fox.”
The rarest sighting for a mammal was an American Mink. Although they are well-known residents of the city, they are rarely seen. They also detected a couple of moose in Wascana Park, near the Wascana Country Club and SaskPolytech.
Suburban sites had the highest diversity of birds, likely because of the mix of habitats available. However, certain species were found most often outside the city such as wetland and grassland birds.
Some notable audio recordings of birds include the Yellow Rail (a species of Special Concern), that was recorded near Wascana Country Club and a Black-billed Cuckoo, recorded near the Science Centre, which is an extremely rare sighting in Regina.
“Regina supports a diverse wildlife community, especially in areas around Wascana Lake and Wascana Creek, but also in the various treed neighbourhoods, parks, and green spaces in the city,” Dr. Fisher said. “We will continue monitoring these same sites every few years to understand how wildlife is changing as Regina grows and expands.”
Dr. Fisher reminds residents that if they do see the research equipment, please do not disturb it.
The Regina Urban Wildlife Project began in fall 2021 and is being done in conjunction with the University of Regina.
To learn more about the Royal Saskatchewan Museum’s exhibits, events, programming and world class research, visit: royalsaskmuseum.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)
U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) released the statement below following the House passage of the Republican budget resolution. The Congressman voted against this harmful budget as it would gut funding for Medicare, the Affordable Care Act, and SNAP – one of the nation’s largest anti-hunger programs.
“The Republicans’ budget prioritizes massive tax breaks for billionaires at the expense of essential services for seniors, veterans, children, and countless others,” said Rep. Carbajal. “On the Central Coast, families are struggling to make ends meet, and this budget provides no relief. I will continue fighting back against this extreme agenda.”
In California’s 24th Congressional District, 236,208 people who rely on Medicaid are at risk of losing their health care under the Republican plan. This includes 98,975 children under the age of 19 and 24,000 seniors over 65.
Additionally, the 42,000 people who receive coverage under the Affordable Care Act would see their average premium go up by $2,420 per year — which amounts to a 107% increase.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a Missouri man with a drug trafficking related offense.
According to court documents, Otis J. Newton, 58, of Kansas City, Missouri, was indicted on one count of attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Defendant allegedly tossed an explosive into victims’ car then left a voicemail message using racial slurs
Seattle – A 54-year-old Everett, Washington man will make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Seattle today at 2:00, after being charged federally in connection with a pipe bomb explosion that destroyed a neighbor’s car, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Steven Goldstine was originally charged in Snohomish County for the suspected hate crime. He is now charged in federal court by criminal complaint with unlawful possession of a destructive device, unlawful possession of ammunition, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to records filed in the case, on December 31, 2024, Everett Police responded to reports of an explosion in a car parked at an apartment complex. The victims told police they suspected Goldstine due to prior conflicts they had had with him. The day after the explosion they received a voice message using racial slurs and referencing the explosion in the vehicle. Further analysis of the records led investigators to believe it was Goldstine.
Using video footage from the apartment complex and other cameras in the area investigators determined the bomber’s clothing and direction of travel. When they executed a search warrant at Goldstine’s home law enforcement found a jacket and shoes that appeared to match those seen in the video. Law enforcement also seized more than 700 rounds of ammunition. Goldstine is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to prior felony convictions for burglary, arson and possession of stolen property.
In reviewing Goldstine’s history, law enforcement determined that on September 17, 2020, law enforcement searched Goldstine’s residence following a report that while out in his car he had pointed a gun at protestors. The action was captured on video. In the search of Goldstine’s home in 2020, the firearm was seized by law enforcement. The federal complaint filed this week charges Goldstine with that illegal firearms possession.
Unlawful possession of a destructive device and unlawful possession of a firearm, as charged in this case, are both punishable by up to ten years in prison. Unlawful possession of ammunition is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Everett Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Manca.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
MINNEAPOLIS – An indictment was unsealed today alleging that Gabriel Langford and Elizabeth Brown, a Minnesota couple, engaged in a $15 million scheme to defraud Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurers by overbilling for neurofeedback therapy, following the couple’s arrest and initial appearances in Las Vegas, Nevada, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.
According to court documents, beginning in 2018, Gabriel Adam Alexander Luthor, a.k.a. Gabriel Adam Alexander Langford, 39, and Elizabeth Christine Brown, 40, intentionally devised and carried out a scheme to overbill Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurers for medical services provided through Golden Victory Medical, LLC (GVM). Luthor and Brown were in a relationship, and together founded GVM in 2018.
According to court documents, one of the main medical services GVM claimed to provide was neurofeedback therapy. During neurofeedback therapy, a medical provider places sensors on a patient’s scalp to obtain images of the patient’s brain waves, for the purpose of indicating the effects of interventions meant to treat mental-health conditions. But according to the indictment, Luthor and Brown fraudulently overbilled insurers for GVM’s neurofeedback services using numerous inapplicable medical codes.
For example, GVM repeatedly submitted claims to insurers using medical codes that did not cover the neurofeedback services that GVM provided, combinations of codes that by definition could not be combined, and codes that indicated that GVM’s patients received a longer duration of services than the company had actually provided. Luthor and Brown caused GVM to continue submitting false claims even after repeated warnings from insurers, an outside auditor, and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
In total, GVM submitted hundreds of thousands of false claims to insurers, many of which the insurers paid, resulting in an estimated loss of over $15 million. Millions of dollars in fraudulent proceeds were transferred from bank account to bank account and ultimately retained by Luthor and Brown. Luthor and Brown used the funds to purchase a mansion in Eden Prairie and to pay their living expenses and the living expenses of other girlfriends of Luthor’s, who lived with Luthor and Brown and assisted in the fraud scheme.
“Minnesota has a fraud problem,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “This case is yet another example of defendants defrauding government programs out of millions. This type of widespread fraud is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
“Defrauding critical healthcare programs like Medicaid and Medicare burden systems designed to serve patients and puts them at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate those who abuse the healthcare system for personal gain and will pursue justice on behalf of taxpayers and patients.”
Luthor and Brown are each charged with six counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. They made their initial appearances in U.S. District Court in the District of Nevada earlier this week.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Eden Prairie Police Department, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Forbes is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Availability of the Universal Registration Document 2024
Bezons, April 10, 2025
Atos announces that its Universal Registration Document for the year 2024 was filed today, Thursday April 10, 2025, with the French Financial Markets Authority (“AMF”) under number D.25-0238.
This document notably includes:
This document is available on the Atos website (https://atos.net/en/investors) as well as on the AMF website (www.amf-france.org).
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About Atos
Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with circa 78,000 employees and annual revenue of circa €10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 68 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.
The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.
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Source: United Nations 2
By Vibhu Mishra
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Thursday began hearing Sudan’s case against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which it accuses of being complicit in acts of genocide against the Masalit community in West Darfur by backing the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The hearings in The Hague, focus on Sudan’s request for the court – the UN’s principal judicial organ – to impose provisional measures to prevent further alleged grave human rights violations.
Sudan’s military Government is alleging that the UAE has been directly supporting the RSF and allied militias, which have embroiled in a brutal civil war with the national army since April 2023.
The conflict has triggered one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, claiming tens of thousands of lives and displacing over 12.4 million people – more than 3.3 million as refugees in neighbouring countries.
Hunger has reached catastrophic levels, with famine declared in several regions, and disease outbreaks and the collapse of essential services have left millions, especially children at extreme risk.
The case, formally titled Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in Sudan (Sudan v. United Arab Emirates), was initiated last month, when Sudan filed an application instituting proceedings against the UAE.
Khartoum claims the RSF and its affiliates are responsible for serious human rights violations including mass killings, rape and the forced displacement of the non-Arab Masalit people in West Darfur.
The application claims the UAE “is complicit in the genocide on the Masalit through its direction of and provision of extensive financial, political, and military support for the rebel RSF militia.”
Pending a final judgment in the case, the court is being asked to indicate provisional measures ordering the UAE to “take all measures within its power to prevent the commission of all acts” that could contribute to genocide.
Additionally, Sudan is asking for the UAE to prevent any allied irregular armed units involved, directly or indirectly, from carrying out further alleged atrocities.
The Court has the authority under Article 36(1) of the its Statute to hear and decide on disputes under international law – including international treaties and conventions – brought by one State against another, provided both have accepted the Court’s jurisdiction.
The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 9 December 1948, in the aftermath of the atrocities of World War II. It entered into force on 12 January 1951.
It defines genocide as any act “committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group”.
Both Sudan and the UAE are a party to the Convention, making them legally bound by its provisions.
More to come…
Source: US State of Rhode Island
Providence, RI — The Rhode Island Film & TV Office is pleased to announce that Academy Award nominated writer/director, M. Night Shyamalan (The Sixth Sense, Signs, Unbreakable) and best-selling author Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook, A Walk to Remember) are teaming up on a supernatural romantic thriller that will be filmed this summer in the Ocean State. The original narrative is a collaboration between Sparks and Shyamalan, with Sparks writing a book and Shyamalan writing a screenplay independently, based on the same original love story. The Blinding Edge Pictures film will star Jake Gyllenhaal (Donnie Darko, Road House, Presumed Innocent).
M. Night Shyamalan’s most recent feature “Trap”, a psychological thriller starring Josh Hartnett was released in August of 2024. His other films include “The Sixth Sense” which was nominated for 6 Oscars in 2000, “Signs” with Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix, and the “Eastrail 177 Trilogy” with the films “Unbreakable”, “Split” and “Glass”, starring Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson and James McAvoy. Shyamalan will produce the film with Blinding Edge Pictures president and producing partner Ashwin Rajan, Sparks’ longtime producer Theresa Park and Marc Bienstock.
New York Times best-selling novelist Nicholas Sparks has published 23 novels and 2 works of nonfiction. A total of 11 of those novels have been adapted as films, most notably 2004’s hit “The Notebook” starring Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling.
Steven Feinberg, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Film & TV Office, remarked, “It is a dream come true to have one of my favorite filmmakers making an original movie here in our beloved Ocean State. Night is a visionary who always attracts top-notch talent in front of and behind the camera. Rhode Island is a special location steeped in history, beauty and great mystery. With all of these amazing ingredients in the hands of a master filmmaker, we can expect M.Night Shyamalan and his outstanding team to tantalize our senses and make a movie we can all be proud of!”
Governor Daniel J. McKee commented, “Rhode Island is excited to host the talented cast and crew of this high-quality film directed by such a master storyteller as M. Night Shyamalan. It’s great to see a new production that showcases our beautiful Ocean State. With our unique landscape and talented local artists, Rhode Island is an ideal location to film a motion picture or television series. Every time a production shoots here we see a positive impact on our local businesses. This is the type of energy that keeps moving our economy forward.”
Speaker of the House K. Joseph Shekarchi (D-District 23, Warwick) commented, “I am proud to continue to promote the arts and filmmaking as a thriving industry in Rhode Island. Our state provides a beautiful backdrop for a variety of major motion pictures from comedies to love stories to suspense thrillers. Furthermore, this innovative industry has proven to be an economic catalyst for the talented artists and hard-working crew members, many of whom are based right here in Rhode Island. It also provides an introduction to first-time visitors who inevitably fall in love with our Ocean State.”
Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio (D-District 4, North Providence, Providence) said, “The Senate is pleased to welcome another major production to our state. This project will provide good paying jobs to the talented film industry professionals based in our state, indirect jobs to area small businesses, and tremendous exposure to the charm and diversity which make our state such an attractive setting to filmmakers and visitors alike.”
The Rhode Island Film & TV Office is a government agency under the umbrella of the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA)
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
GREAT FALLS — A federal jury yesterday convicted a South Dakota man of multiple crimes involving the sexual abuse of two victims on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
After a two-day trial, the jury found the defendant, Farron Gene American Horse, Sr., 40, guilty of sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact as charged in an indictment. On the more serious charge of sexual abuse, American Horse faces up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to life of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The Court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for July 17, 2025. American Horse will remain in custody pending further proceedings.
“Protecting the public on our Native American reservations has been, and remains, a top priority for the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office here in Montana, especially vulnerable victims like those in this case. The defendant’s decision to abuse the children he was supposed to be caring for, is abhorrent and tragic. The jury’s guilty verdict should serve as a warning to others who would abuse others that they will be caught and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. I want to thank the Assistant U. S. Attorneys and staff in our office, and the law enforcement agents from the FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services for their hard work on the case.” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
The government alleged at trial and in court documents that American Horse sexually abused the victims in September and October 2020 in Hays, on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. In the summer of 2020, American Horse went to live with a woman and her family in Hays and helped look after the children. In October 2020, one victim, identified as Jane Doe 1, who had attained the age of 12 years but had not yet reached the age of 16 years, disclosed being sexually abused by American Horse while spending the night at the woman’s residence. About this time, another victim, identified as Jane Doe 2, who also had attained the age of 12 years but had not yet reached the age of 16 years, disclosed that American Horse had touched her while she was sleeping at the woman’s home weeks earlier.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)
Washington, April 10, 2025
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) voted against Republicans’ reckless budget legislation that would increase the national debt by $14 trillion over the next decade, slash Medicaid and jeopardize care for 1.1 million Coloradans, and give tax cuts to billionaires like Elon Musk.
“As a mom of two, I can’t imagine being in a position where you cannot provide health care for your kids or put food on the table. But Republicans are pushing a completely reckless budget plan under the guise of reducing the deficit and lowering costs. We know it does the opposite. It increases our debt by trillions, makes life more expensive for hardworking families, and rips away care from those who need it most – all to give tax breaks to billionaires like Elon Musk.”
“Pregnant women will lose critical care. Hospitals will be overwhelmed as more people are forced into emergency rooms. Seniors, veterans, and kids in need will have food taken off the table. People are already struggling to make ends meet. We should be focused on lowering costs, not pulling the rug out from under their feet.”
Impacts on Colorado’s 7th Congressional District include:
A full fact sheet is available HERE.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nydia M Velázquez (D-NY)
WASHINGTON – Today, Reps. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), and Shontel Brown (D-OH) sent a letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requesting answers on the continued delay in implementing a ban on formaldehyde in hair products.
The FDA issued the proposed rule in October 2023 following a March letter from Reps. Pressley and Brown calling for an investigation into the health risks posed by chemical hair straighteners. The agency set an April 2024 implementation timeline but missed its own deadline. Although the proposed rule was added to the OMB Unified Agenda last fall, the target action date of March 2025 has passed with no further progress.
“Since Fall 2024, there has been no further movement or concrete next steps regarding the implementation of the ban” wrote the lawmakers.
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen found in hair relaxers, keratin treatments, and other chemical straighteners. Its use has been linked to cancer, respiratory illness, and adverse reproductive outcomes. The letter notes that women of color are disproportionately at risk.
“Of particular concern is the heightened health risk to Black women, who are more likely to receive or provide formaldehyde-based hair treatments, which has a disparate impact on both workers and their customers,” the lawmakers continued.
The letter follows previous outreach from Reps. Velázquez, Pressley, and Brown in August 2024, when they again urged the FDA to finalize the proposed rule.
In the letter, the lawmakers call on the FDA to finalize the proposed rule and ask for answers to the following questions:
“It is essential to continue to highlight the gravity of formaldehyde exposure, as evidenced by both epidemiological data and laboratory research,” the letter concludes. “Ensuring that regulatory actions align with the best interests of public health remains the goal and we encourage promptly finalizing a proposed rule.”
For a full copy of the letter, click here.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)
QUEENS, NY – Today, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) hailed NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim – who recently visited Queens – for arrivingat the International Space Station this morning in his first spaceflight.
In October 2022, Meng brought Kim to the borough where he met and spoke with local students at Francis Lewis High School in Fresh Meadows and the Queens College School for Math, Science and Technology in Flushing. Meng and Kim also hosted a luncheon with local Korean American leaders in Flushing.
During his trip to Queens, Meng introduced him to the students, and Kim talked about becoming an astronaut, space exploration, overcoming challenges and his remarkable life and career.
“I remember seeing the excitement from Queens students when Jonny Kim came to their school and how they were inspired by his story,” said Meng. “I’m thrilled to now see him arriving in space and I wish him all the best in this important mission.”
Kim arrived at the International Space Station with two Russian cosmonauts and is scheduled to stay aboard the orbital outpost for eight months. During the mission, he will conduct scientific research in technology development, Earth science, biology, human research and more.
A child of South Korean immigrants, Kim was selected by NASA in 2017 after serving as a U.S. Navy SEAL, receiving the Silver Star and Bronze Star and earning a medical degree from Harvard Medical School.
Meng is the top Democrat on the House subcommittee that funds NASA and is proud to have secured money for the space agency to fund missions like these.
Kim’s full bio can be viewed here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)
WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, U.S. Rep. Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05) joined all 19 Democratic Members from New York in sending a letter, led by Reps. Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy requesting a meeting to discuss the unprecedented attacks on New York State’s health funding.
“This funding cut will have a detrimental impact on New Yorkers who have dedicated years of their lives to public service and helping their communities,” Rep. Meeks said. “I receive daily calls from my constituents who are furious about the job losses the Trump administration has created. HHS was designed to protect the well-being of Americans, not strip away vital services that allow for safe and effective health care.”
The Members wrote in the letter:
“We write regarding the Trump administration’s recent attempt to rescind more than $11 billion in congressionally authorized funding from state and local health departments across the country. Under these cuts, New York state health departments will lose an estimated $400 million in critical health funding, with $100 million of that being pulled from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene alone. As a result of these actions, the New York State Department of Health has laid off more than 200 public health workers, including 50 full time staff and 168 public health fellows…Every single one of our constituents will be impacted by these actions.”
The letter explains that at least 200 community-based organizations that provide mental health, maternal health, and other life-saving services have had their funding jeopardized, and that rescinding congressionally mandated funding is illegal and has already been blocked by a federal judge. The lawmakers conclude by requesting a meeting with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and his staff no later than April 22, 2025.
The letter was signed by the entire Democratic New York delegation totaling 19 lawmakers. This includes: Representatives Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Laura Gillen (NY-04), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), George Latimer (NY-16), John Mannion (NY-22), Grace Meng (NY-06), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Josh Riley (NY-19), Patrick Ryan (NY-18), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07).
Read the full letter, here.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement ahead of a House vote to repeal the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) rule capping excessive overdraft fees:
“Trump promised to lower egg prices. Instead, Republicans are gutting the rules to let banks charge you $35 per transaction to use your own checking account. Overdraft fees are one of the most predatory practices in the financial system, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s rule finally puts guardrails in place. Repealing it means banks can run up the score on their customers with $35 fees even for small transactions. This is a Republican handout to the financial industry at the expense of everyday Americans. I’m voting no,” said Pallone.
The CFPB — established in the wake of the 2008 financial crash — finalized the overdraft fee rule in December after years of research and public input. The rule would cap overdraft charges and save consumers billions each year. Repealing it allows banks to continue charging as much as $35 per overdraft — often for small, short-term charges that disproportionately hit low-income families. According to the CFPB, the final rule is expected to result in $5 billion in annual overdraft fee savings to consumers, or $225 per household that pays overdraft fees. The overdraft final rule will take effect on October 1, 2025.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Reps. David Kustoff (R-TN), Michael McCaul (R-TX), and Brandon Gill (R-TX) introduced the Protecting Our Supreme Court Justices Act in the House of Representatives. This legislation will increase the maximum term of imprisonment for those who attempt to intimidate and influence the decision-making process of a Supreme Court Justice from one year to five years.
“Anyone who intimidates or threatens a Supreme Court Justice should face severe consequences under the law,” said Congressman Kustoff. “The Protecting Our Supreme Court Justices Act will increase the penalty for attempting to influence the decision making of a Supreme Court Justice. As a former United States Attorney, I believe it is essential to uphold the sanctity of our judicial system and protect our Supreme Court Justices from outside influence.”
Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the companion bill in the United States Senate.
“Supreme Court Justices must be able to do their jobs without fear of intimidation, harm, or violence against them or their families,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Protecting Our Supreme Court Justices Act will deter intimidation of our Justices and send a clear message that anyone who attempts to harm them will be punished to the fullest extent of the law.”
Background:
In the aftermath of the unprecedented May 2022 leak of the draft opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, far-left protesters immediately began demonstrating outside of the private residences of Supreme Court Justices. Subsequently, a map with the home addresses of five Republican-appointed Justices — Justices Thomas, Alito, Gorsuch, Kavanaugh, and Barrett—was posted online.
Federal law explicitly prohibits attempts at influencing the decision-making process of a judge. Specifically, 18 U.S.C. § 1507 states that any individual who, “with the intent of influencing any judge . . . in the discharge of his duty, pickets or parades . . . in or near a building or residence occupied or used by such judge” is subject to criminal monetary penalties or a maximum of one year of imprisonment, or both. Section 1507 was intended to enable our judges to carry out their duty to uphold the rule of law, without fear of intimidation or retribution for doing so.
Under President Joe Biden and Attorney General Garland, following the Dobbs leak, zero protesters outside of Supreme Court Justices’ homes were arrested for violating Section 1507. Just as troubling, the Biden Department of Justice did not issue any guidance on enforcing this statute. With President Trump back at in the White House, the Justice Department will finally focus on law and order. Nevertheless, it’s still critical that Congress act to deter this intimidation of our federal judiciary.
The Protecting Our Supreme Court Justices Act would increase the maximum term of imprisonment for violation of Section 1507 from one year to five years.
Click here for the full text of the bill.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL
WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02), co-chair of the House Democratic Steering & Policy Committee, held a hearing on the Republicans’ damaging scheme to cut veterans’ benefits. Rep. Kelly heard directly from three veterans, including one who was recently fired by President Donald Trump from a senior post at Veterans Affairs (VA).
Rep. Kelly asked witness Sharda Fornnarrino, who is a nurse at the VA, what she would tell President Trump and Elon Musk regarding their service cuts.
“I would tell them, ‘We’re not going to give up on the VA,’” said Fornnarrino. “We’ll continue to organize and fight back against their attacks. Our nurses are really proud to work at the VA.”
Rep. Kelly adjourned the hearing with the following full transcript:
“Donald Trump’s extreme policies aren’t just tanking our economy and making life harder on the American people. Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and extremists appointed in their Administration are specifically targeting our nation’s veterans. They are denying veterans the care they deserve by defunding VA hospitals, closing offices, and taking a chainsaw to programs like Social Security. They are breaking the promise of the PACT Act. Freezing funding. Stopping hiring.
“They have fired thousands of veteran workers from important jobs in our government—jobs that make sure Americans get their benefits on time, that air travel remains safe, and so much more.
“With more than 16 million veterans in America, you would think—or at the very least hope—that Donald Trump and Elon Musk would have their best interests at heart.
“But they don’t. Instead of standing up for those 16 million veterans, Trump and Musk are standing up for the handful of billionaire donors that are bankrolling the Republican Party.
“And just as they do that, they are triggering a reckless economic disaster right before our eyes. Democrats stand with our veterans and the American people. We believe in protecting hard-earned benefits—not prioritizing a billionaire’s bottom line.
“We know that we owe a debt to each and every single man and woman that has served our nation in uniform. Donald Trump might not care about repaying those debts, but Democrats absolutely do care. That is our job. George, James, Sharda, Will—know this: We will not stop fighting for you.”
Watch the full hearing here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Robin Kelly (IL-02) released the following statement on the new director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). FBI Director Kash Patel was abruptly removed as Acting Director and replaced by U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, as reported exclusively by Reuters.
“Every day, over 110 Americans die from gun violence – and the Trump administration is playing musical chairs with the department in charge of enforcing gun safety laws. The ATF needs a director dedicated to the job, and not someone who will split time with another job. By naming U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll to also lead the ATF, President Trump continues to militarize our law enforcement. Gun crimes like straw purchasing and trafficking have serious and deadly consequences. The ATF must be at full capacity to enforce those laws.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Norma Torres, a member of the House Administration Committee that oversees federal elections, condemned House Republicans’ refusal to consider series of important amendments to the SAVE Act aimed at ensuring all eligible Americans, regardless of zip code, financial situation, or choosing to change your name after marriage, can participate in our democracy and vote.
The House Republican-led SAVE Act would disenfranchise countless American citizens and cause massive logistical roadblocks for the 69 million women who have changed their name and do not have a matching birth certificate. The SAVE Act would require every American citizen registering to vote – whether a new registration or an updated one based on a move, a party change, or a name change – to provide an election official with, for the most part, (1) a passport, or (2) a birth certificate paired with a current photo identification.
Alongside a few other uncommon documents, providing this documentary proof of citizenship, in person at an election office would be the only way for American citizens to register to vote under the SAVE Act.
In response, Congresswoman Torres’ amendments reflect her commitment to making certain that every eligible voter, regardless of their circumstances, can fully participate in the democratic process.
This amendment provides an exemption to states where residents lack access to voter registration sites or the financial means to acquire proof of citizenship, ensuring that States will not be burdened by the Act’s requirements. Regardless of zip code or financial means, all Americans deserve the equal right to vote and be heard in our democracy.
This amendment affirms the longstanding authority of state and tribal governments to determine acceptable forms of identification for voting. It also makes voter list purges voluntary rather than mandatory, protecting eligible voters from being wrongfully removed from voter rolls. Additionally, the amendment requires states to notify individuals who are removed from the voter rolls and create an accessible online platform where citizens can verify their registration status.
This amendment expands accommodations under the SAVE Act to not only include individuals with disabilities, but also accommodate family members who assist individuals with disabilities, individuals who lack access to transportation to registration sites, and individuals facing financial or other difficulties in acquiring proof of citizenship. These expanded provisions will help ensure that all voters, regardless of their personal challenges, continue to have access to the voting process.
“Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy, and we must ensure that every eligible American has the ability to participate in elections without facing unnecessary barriers,” said Congresswoman Torres. “While I oppose this bill as it would suppress voters, especially women, these amendments are designed to protect those who might otherwise be excluded and to make sure that voter registration is accessible, especially those from marginalized and underserved communities. I’m disappointed, but not surprised, that Republicans refused to allow for their consideration, but I will continue to fight to protect the integrity of our elections while ensuring everyone has a voice.”
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35) today issued a strong condemnation of the latest Republican Budget resolution. The resolution will endanger the health and well-being of thousands of hardworking families in California’s 35th District and beyond, particularly those who use vital public programs such as Medicaid (Medi-Cal), SNAP, and affordable healthcare.
“As a member of Congress, my job is to help our community thrive, so everyone in the Inland Empire has the opportunity for a better future– but the Republican budget plan does the exact opposite. It is an outright betrayal of working families, the middle class, and it will hurt the most vulnerable among us,” said Congresswoman Torres. “This budget is nothing more than a massive wealth transfer from working families to billionaires and corporations, and we cannot let this happen.”
The Republican budget would put 339,369 people in CA-35 at risk of losing their healthcare under Medicaid, which includes 119,966 children under 19 and 28,000 seniors over the age of 65. In addition, it threatens the 60,000 constituents in the district who rely on SNAP benefits to feed their families.
“Let’s be clear, this isn’t just about numbers on a page. This is about real people. Real children who go to bed hungry, real seniors who depend on life-saving care, and real working families who simply want a fair shot,” Torres continued.
The impact of the Republican budget would extend to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), with 34,000 people in CA-35 losing affordable healthcare coverage. For these families, average premiums could skyrocket by $2,280 per year—a 114% increase. For a 60-year-old couple in CA-35 earning $85,000 a year, their premiums would soar by $13,600 annually—an alarming 188% increase.
“This plan is a disaster. It takes affordable healthcare away from working people, hikes their premiums, and forces them to choose between paying for medical care or putting food on the table. It will take us backward, not forward,” said Torres.
The proposed budget would also jeopardize the well-being of 2,452,931 California children who depend on free school meals under the Community Eligibility Provision, a vital program that helps ensure every child gets a nutritious meal during the school day.
“Year after year, Republicans have proven that their priorities lie with tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and corporations. This budget is no different. It proposes $5.5 trillion in tax cuts for billionaires, blowing up our deficit, increasing inflation, and leaving everyday Americans to pay the price. I cannot stand by while this reckless agenda puts the most vulnerable in our district at risk. We must protect our children, our seniors, and our working families.”
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Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
A 32-year-old man has been sentenced for manslaughter through diminished responsibility, after he stabbed his stepfather in his own home.
Adejuwon Olufemi Alexander Jnr Oyekan, 32 (08.11.1992) of Melina Close, Hayes, was sentenced to a hospital order until deemed fit for release, on Thursday, 10 April at the Old Bailey. He had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter through diminished responsibility at the same court on Monday, 24 February 2025.
Officers were called to a residence in Hayes in the early hours of Tuesday, 11 July 2023, to reports Oyekan had stabbed his 54-year-old stepfather Jason Thompson.
When they arrived, officers were faced with Oyekan still armed with the knife which he had used to attack Jason.
After the first responding officers had gained entry to residence they challenged Oyekan, initially using their tasers in an attempt to disarm him. When this was unsuccessful, they then left the address to await support from armed response officers to detain him.
When officers returned to the property, they made it their priority to assist Jason. However, sadly and despite the best efforts of the emergency services, Jason died from his injuries at the scene.
Barbara Thompson, sister to Jason Thompson:
“Jason and I had a special bond. We were both cheerleaders for one another and revelled in each other’s good news and growth. Equally, his love for family and life was authentic and abundant.
“There is not a day that goes past without tears and my heart aching. I still struggle with the reality that he’s not here. I struggle with the violence he endured. I struggle with the unfairness of my brother being taken so tragically.
“Jason leaves behind a beautiful, attentive and caring legacy and I and so many others thank him for the beautiful memories, care and love he provided.”
Detective Chief Inspector Laura Semple from the Met’s Public Protection Partnership, said:
“Our thoughts remain with Jason’s family throughout this difficult time”
“I’d like to thank the first responding officers who attended the scene and demonstrated huge bravery to challenge Oyekan, who was armed and acting aggressively.
“Their quick thinking, to use the tools at their disposal, guaranteed Oyekan was admitted to custody from the scene, and did not go on to pose a wider threat to the public.”
“Oyekan will now be detained under a hospital order until he is deemed fit for release, meaning he will no longer be a risk to the public.”
Oyekan was arrested at the scene and charged with murder on Wednesday, 11 July 2023.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on April 9, 2025, to five years in prison on his conviction of money laundering and conspiracy in connection with the sale and interstate transportation of stolen goods, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Durrell Waters, 41, also ordering him to serve three years of federal supervised release following his imprisonment. A federal jury found Waters guilty on four counts of money laundering and one count of conspiracy in August 2024 (read the verdict news release here).
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the evidence presented against Waters was extensive, and that the victims of this crime included people experiencing addiction, retail establishments, and all consumers. Judge Hornak noted that, unlike some crimes that take place in a single event, Waters’s criminal conspiracy took place over the course of years and “required [Waters] to decide every day to keep doing this.” Judge Hornak emphasized the need for members of the public to be deterred from similar conduct and remarked that “a sentence without substantial imprisonment would be insufficient.”
According to information presented to the Court, Waters was one of the primary owners of a series of Pittsburgh and surrounding area second-hand or resale businesses called Trader Electronics, Last Call Entertainment, and The Outlet. From 2013 through 2016, Waters conspired with others to use these businesses as a front for a criminal fencing operation that sold over the internet a wide variety of health and beauty aids and over-the-counter medications like teeth whiteners, vitamins, hair and skin care products, makeup, and other similar items.
Waters’s stores and similar stores in the area knowingly engaged in high-volume purchases of stolen brand-new retail health and beauty aids and other products, such as new-release DVDs, from walk-in sellers who had shoplifted, or “boosted”, the items. Store records reflected that Waters and his businesses purchased hundreds of thousands of brand-new items, sometimes for less than 10% of their value, from a group of repeat shoplifters. Waters and his businesses then resold that stolen property online via several Amazon and eBay storefronts, with the proceeds from the stores’s main Amazon account totaling over $4.3 million during the conspiracy.
Evidence presented at sentencing highlighted the widespread and diverse economic and public health harms caused or aggravated by this conduct. Ripple effects from high-volume retail theft harm consumers by imposing more and more restrictive anti-theft measures in stores and costs every consumer hundreds of dollars per year. Additionally, many of the boosters were people experiencing drug addiction who used the money paid to them by Waters to finance their dependency and feed the drug epidemic.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin C. Dobkin prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Waters. Police departments from the City of Pittsburgh, Ross Township, and Shaler Township also assisted in the investigation.