City Responds to Hate Speech Used at City Council Meeting

 On Tuesday, October 17th, the Port Angeles City Council meeting was the target of hate speech by virtual participants using fake names. The City of Port Angeles has a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and does not tolerate hate or discrimination. 

 Our City embraces freedom of speech and respects diverse opinions. However, we draw a clear line when it comes to hate speech and discrimination based on race, religion, national origin, age, gender, disability or sexual orientation. Such behavior is not and will never be tolerated in Port Angeles.  

At the core of our values is respect, safety, and the celebration of diversity. Port Angeles thrives on its diverse cultures, backgrounds and perspectives, which define us and enrich our collective experience. This diversity is a source of strength and pride.  

We apologize to any member of our community who felt uncomfortable, upset or threatened by the incident on Tuesday. We assure you that our City stands firm in our commitment to safety for all.  

Keeping our community safe takes all of us working together. We invite all residents to join us in taking a strong stand against hate and discrimination, and to embrace inclusivity, understanding, and respect for one another. Together, we can foster a community that is safe, inclusive and welcoming to all.  

link source: https://www.cityofpa.us/civicalerts.aspx?AID=1510

CITY COUNCIL MEETING INTERRUPTED MULTIPLE TIMES BY HATE SPEECH-KONP related story

“I don’t remember exactly the order of things, but we had, at one point, someone was unmuted or was able to be unmuted during one of the public hearings, and shouted out some really inappropriate words. And then, fast forward to public comment. I think one made it through with just really disturbing discussions. And then, another one ended with some, some hate speech, which is out of order, and therefore, is immediately muted.”

STATE HEADLINE NEWS:

AG Ferguson announces more than $2 million in recoveries for student-borrowers.

Nearly three dozen entities must pay restitution to more than 2,600 Washingtonians with an average payment of nearly $800 per consumer

OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced today that his office has recovered more than $2 million from nearly three dozen debt adjusters who preyed on student borrowers. These entities engaged in unfair and deceptive practices, including unlawfully charging tens of thousands of dollars in excessive fees to thousands of Washingtonians./ WAAG

Homeless Diversion Program Grant Competitive Application.

The Department of Commerce seeks applications from organizations interested in providing diversion services to people at risk of homelessness or recently homeless in their communities. Services must be prioritized to communities with a demonstrated disproportionate representation in homelessness and housing instability. Services must be low-barrier, trauma-informed and culturally responsive. Funding will not exceed $1.275 million, and Commerce expects to fund between 8-10 contracts. Responses are due November 27./ WA COMMERCE DEPT

Local partners using $3 million to safeguard critical shoreline areas.

Washington’s approximately 28,000 miles of river, lake, and marine shorelines are getting a protective boost. We are awarding $3 million in competitive grants to 21 cities and counties across the state to help them safeguard their local shorelines./DOE

Department of Health unveils Strong Start, a new statewide data system that supports child development.4

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is pleased to announce the launch of the state’s new universal developmental screening system, Strong Start. It’s a free online tool where parents, caregivers, and providers can securely store, share, and track children’s developmental screening information from birth through age 5./DOH

DFI Enters Multi-State Settlement with ACI Payments, Inc. for Unauthorized Transactions.

ACI Payments agrees to pay combined fines of $20 million to state regulators and state attorneys general and to maintain a comprehensive risk management program

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) joined regulators from 43 other states and entered a legal settlement with ACI Payments, Inc. (ACI) imposing $10 million in fines and affirmative action requirements for initiating unauthorized electronic transactions. Additionally, 50 state attorneys general, including Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson, levied $10 million in fines against ACI, in coordination with state regulators for a total combined fine of $20 million./DFI

2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION

Senator Murray, Colleagues Call for U.S. to Provide Humanitarian Aid to Address Urgent Humanitarian Needs in Gaza

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, joined U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism and 32 of their Senate colleagues in urging the Biden administration to lead the international community in contributing to the United Nations’ emergency appeal of $294 million to address the immediate humanitarian needs in the West Bank and Gaza./ PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/18/23

KILMER, BIPARTISAN GROUP REINTRODUCE BILL TO HELP SHIPYARD WORKERS, OTHER FEDERAL EMPLOYEES RETIRE ON TIME

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Gerry Connolly (VA-11), Don Bacon (NE-02), and David Valadao (CA-22) reintroduced the Federal Retirement Fairness Act (FRFA), legislation to address a gap for federal employees who began their careers as temporary workers and were thus unable to make retirement contributions. The FRFA will allow these workers to make catch-up contributions to ensure they can retire as planned. In the absence of this provision, many face an unfair choice: exit the federal service without complete retirement benefits or delay retirement to achieve full benefits./PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/19/23

Cantwell, Murray Announce $68.4 Million to Strengthen WA Grid Against Wildfires and Boost Infrastructure for EVs and Renewables

Awards come from Cantwell-authored program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Patty Murray (D-WA), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $30 million for the Snohomish County Public Utility District’s Secure Modern Automated and Reliable Technology Project (SnoSMART) and $38.4 million for Avista Utilities in Spokane and the Klickitat County Public Utility District’s “Advanced Solutions to Mitigate Wildfire Risk” project—both of which will help enhance grid flexibility and improve the resilience of the power system against growing threats of wildfires, extreme weather, and climate change./ PRESS RELEASE ISSUED 10/19/23

3) WORLD, NATIONAL, & BUSINESS:

WORLD: 

Outer Space Becoming Contested Domain for Supremacy with Space-Based Communications, Intelligence Assets, Anti-Satellite Weapons, First Committee Hears

Divergent Views Emerge on Way Forward, with Some Seeking Political Commitments to Avert Danger, Others, Legally Binding Accords

Outer space is becoming a contest for supremacy, drawing on space-based communications and intelligence assets, and the early development of anti-satellite weaponry, the First Committee (Disarmament and International Security) heard today as its thematic debate opened on preventing an arms race in that realm./ UN PRESS RELEASE

Secretary-General Appoints Andrea Cook of United Kingdom Executive Director, United Nations Sustainable Development Group System-Wide Evaluation Office

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced today the appointment of Andrea Cook of the United Kingdom as the first Executive Director of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group System-Wide Evaluation Office.  The Secretary-General wishes to extend his appreciation to Matthew Varghese, who served as Acting Executive Director./ UN PRESS RELEASE

Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on the Adoption of a UN Security Council Resolution on Haiti Sanctions/USUN

Special Envoy Fowler’s Remarks at the 2023 World Food Forum in Rome/ US STATE DEPT.

DOD Responds to Attacks, Continues Efforts to Deter Spread of Israel-Hamas War.

DOD assets in the Red Sea, Iraq and Syria responded to missile and drone attacks over the past two days, as U.S. service members look to deter groups from using the Israel-Hamas war as an opportunity to launch conflict that could engulf the region, Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said today./ DOD

NATION:

Justice Department Participates in the 22nd Annual International Competition Network Conference in Barcelona, Spain/DOJ

Biden-Harris Administration Awards $14 Million Under First-Ever Fostering Diverse Schools Demonstration Grant Program.

The U.S. Department of Education (Department) has made $14 million in awards to help support local- and state-driven voluntary efforts to foster more diverse school communities through its first-ever Fostering Diverse Schools Demonstration Program. These grants, in alignment with the Department’s Raise the Bar: Lead the World call to action, support districts as they work to enrich educational experiences by providing every student with a well-rounded education and improved school conditions for student learning, inclusive of a broader perspective on the world./ DEPT. of EDUCATION

HUD Announces $40 Million to Hire New and Maintain Existing Service Coordinators for Residents of Public and Indian Housing

Notice of Funding Opportunity available for eligible entities to hire a program coordinator who links residents with training opportunities, job placement organizations, and local employers./HUD

Biden-Harris Administration Advances Long-Term Planning Efforts to Protect the Colorado River System

Process to develop future guidelines and strategies leverages historic investments from President’s Investing in America agenda/ DEPT. of INTERIOR

EPA Proposes Rule to Strengthen TSCA Risk Evaluation Process to Protect Workers and Communities/EPA

BUSINESS:

IRS Launches New Initiatives Using Inflation Reduction Act Funding to Ensure Large Corporations Pay Taxes Owed, Continues to Improve Service and Modernize Technology with Launch of Business Tax Account/ US TREASURY DEPT.

USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program Pays More Than $1.77 Billion to America’s Producers in Support of Conservation and Climate-Smart Agriculture/USDA

Steel Manufacturer Enters Agreement Solidifying Its Commitment to Spend More Than $100 Million to Reduce Emissions from Its Dearborn, Michigan, Facility/DOJ

Opening Remarks

Vice Chair Philip N. Jefferson

At the 18th Central Bank Conference on the Microstructure of Financial Markets, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Washington, D.C./THE FED

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ANNOUNCES NEW ACTIONS IN WHITE HOUSE TASK FORCE REPORT TO PROTECT MIGRANT, US WORKERS AGAINST EMPLOYER EXPLOITATION/DEPT. of LABOR

IN FOCUS & LOCAL MEETINGS FOR 10/21/23

https://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/in-focus-local-meeting-for-102123.html

WSDA TRAPPERS CATCH 103 SPONGY MOTHS

 

https://agr.wa.gov/about-wsda/news-and-media-relations/news-releases?article=37811

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Agriculture’s (WSDA) spongy moth* (Lymantria dispar) trappers had a busy season this year, trapping 103 spongy moths. Thirty moths were caught statewide in 2022 and only six in 2021.

The spongy moths were caught as part of the WSDA Pest Program’s regular summer moth survey program, during which more than 20,000 traps were placed around the state this year. Of the moths trapped, 81 were in Thurston County, with 77 trapped near Steamboat Island Road, making that the most moths trapped in one area in more than 30 years. Other counties with spongy moth catches include Pierce, Skagit, King, San Juan and Snohomish.

“We had a surprising number of catches this year,” Susan Brush, Acting Invasive Moth Projects Coordinator, said. “Our next step is to look for egg masses in the areas with the highest concentration of catches. Once we have that information, we’ll have the data necessary to start planning our response to this introduction.”

WSDA has monitored and successfully prevented spongy moth from establishing in the state since 1974. Each year, the state has new introductions of the invasive pest from people moving from the Eastern U.S. where 20 states are permanently infested with the moth or, more rarely, through the ports.

Spongy moth is an extremely destructive pest that threatens entire forests, parks and neighborhood trees and shrubs. The moths can defoliate acres of trees during outbreaks, which can result in the death of millions of trees and the destruction of native habitat for countless species. During an outbreak in eastern states in 2016, the damage was so extensive it could be seen on NASA satellites.

Visit agr.wa.gov/moths for more information about spongy moth and WSDA’s trapping and eradication programs.

IN OTHER STATE NEWS HEADLINES

Commerce receives $1 million SBA grant to boost small business exports/WA COMMERCE DEPT.

https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/commerce-receives-1-million-sba-grant-to-boost-small-business-exports/

US Dept. of Energy Selects Pacific Northwest for Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub./wa commerce dept.

https://www.commerce.wa.gov/news/us-dept-of-energy-selects-pacific-northwest-for-regional-clean-hydrogen-hub/

Washington and Oregon seek nominations for Columbia River fishing advisory groups/WDFW

https://wdfw.wa.gov/newsroom/news-release/washington-and-oregon-seek-nominations-columbia-river-fishing-advisory-groups-0

Hunters invited to mentored pheasant hunt Nov. 4 in Oakville/WDFW

https://wdfw.wa.gov/newsroom/news-release/hunters-invited-mentored-pheasant-hunt-nov-4-oakville

Clark County residents invited to public discussion about living with disabilities.

OLYMPIA — If you’re interested in improving the lives of Clark County residents who have disabilities, the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues & Employment (GCDE) wants to hear from you./ESD

https://www.esd.wa.gov/newsroom/clark-county-residents-invited

2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION

KILMER, BIPARTISAN GROUP REINTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO EXPAND TAX CREDIT TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) announced that he and U.S. Reps. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Tom Cole (OK-04) reintroduced the Supporting Early-Childhood Educators’ Deductions (SEED) Act. The bill would help early childhood educators cover the cost of supplies, books, and other classroom materials by allowing them to claim the above-the-line $300 tax deduction currently available only to K-12 teachers. U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (CO) and Susan Collins (ME) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate./PRESS RELEASE

https://kilmer.house.gov/media/press-releases/kilmer-bipartisan-group-reintroduce-legislation-to-expand-tax-credit-to-early-childhood-educators

AARP, Seattle Pharmacists Endorse Cantwell Bill to Prevent Anti-Consumer Practices by Drug Industry Middlemen

Survey of 1,300 Washingtonians found that 1 in 4 have skipped or used less medication because they couldn’t afford it/PRESS RELEASE ISSUED

https://www.cantwell.senate.gov/news/press-releases/aarp-seattle-pharmacists-endorse-cantwell-bill-to-prevent-anti-consumer-practices-by-drug-industry-middlemen

Senators Murray, Cantwell Announce $1 Billion for New Hydrogen Hub in Pacific Northwest Funded by Bipartisan Infrastructure Law/Press release

https://www.murray.senate.gov/senators-murray-cantwell-announce-1-billion-for-new-hydrogen-hub-in-pacific-northwest-funded-by-bipartisan-infrastructure-law/

3) WORLD< NATION< BUSINESS:

WORLD:

Security Council 751 Committee Briefed by Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

On 28 September 2023, the Security Council Committee pursuant to resolution 751 (1992) concerning Al-Shabaab held informal consultations to hear a briefing by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, in accordance with paragraph 47(d) of Security Council resolution 2662 (2022) following the submission of the report of the Emergency Relief Coordinator, and in accordance with paragraph 5 of resolution 2664 (2022), on the delivery of humanitarian assistance in Somalia.  The report has since been transmitted to the Security Council and issued as S/2023/720./UN PRESS RELEASE

https://press.un.org/en/2023/sc15440.doc.htm

Entrenched Belief in Nuclear Deterrence as Defence Keeps Fear of Annihilation Alive, First Committee Hears in Thematic Debate

Mistrust Looms Large in Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, Speakers Say/UN PRESS RELEASE

https://press.un.org/en/2023/gadis3718.doc.htm

Remarks at a UN Security Council Briefing Called by Russia on Threats to International Peace and Security/USUN

https://usun.usmission.gov/remarks-at-a-un-security-council-briefing-called-by-russia-on-threats-to-international-peace-and-security-4/

Third Meeting of the U.S.-Mexico High-Level Security Dialogue/US STATE DEPT.

https://www.state.gov/third-meeting-of-the-u-s-mexico-high-level-security-dialogue/

Austin: U.S. Commitment to Israel Is "Ironclad"

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III today underscored the United States' unwavering commitment to Israel after meeting with key leaders in Tel Aviv./DOD

https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3556700/austin-us-commitment-to-israel-is-ironclad/

NATION:

Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim Delivers Keynote Address at the American Bar Association Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources’ 31st Fall Conference in Washington, DC/DOJ

https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/assistant-attorney-general-todd-kim-delivers-keynote-address-american-bar-association

Former Nursing Home Worker Charged with Wire Fraud in “Ghost” Employee Fraud Scheme/DOJ

https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/former-nursing-home-worker-charged-wire-fraud-ghost-employee-fraud-scheme

Biden-Harris Administration Awards More Than $13 Million to Improve Access to Child Care for Student Parents/DEPT. of EDUCATION

https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-awards-more-13-million-improve-access-child-care-student-parents

Paradise Flavors LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Wheat, Soy, Milk, And Color Additives (Fd&C Blue #1, Blue #2, Red #3, Red#5, Red #6, Red #40, Yellow #5, Yellow #6 Yellow #8) All Paradise Flavors Ice Cream Bars/FDA

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/paradise-flavors-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-tree-nuts-wheat-soy-milk-and-color

HUD Announces $212 Million Funding Opportunity to Expand Affordable Housing Options for Persons with Disabilities

Funding provides capital to produce new or rehabilitate existing housing along with project rental assistance to support very-low and extremely low income-persons with disabilities/HUD

https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_23_235

BUSINESS:

Shipbuilding Company CEO Charged with Witness Tampering and Obstruction/DOJ

https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/shipbuilding-company-ceo-charged-witness-tampering-and-obstruction

Financial Stability in Uncertain Times

Governor Michelle W. Bowman

At the Reinventing Bretton Woods Committee and Policy Center for the New South Marrakech Economic Festival, Marrakech, Morocco/ THE FED

https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/speech/bowman20231011a.htm

USDA Invests in Bison Purchase Pilot Incorporating Indian Country Bison for Tribal Feeding Programs/ USDA

https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2023/10/12/usda-invests-bison-purchase-pilot-incorporating-indian-country

Court Rules in FTC’s Favor in Case Against Telemarketing Company that Bombarded Job Seekers with Millions of Illegal, Unsolicited Calls/FTC

https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/10/court-rules-ftcs-favor-case-against-telemarketing-company-bombarded-job-seekers-millions-illegal

Small Business Needs Certainty

For small businesses to grow and thrive they need reassurance that they can operate without fear of unnecessary policy and regulatory changes from the government./US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

https://www.uschamber.com/small-business/small-business-needs-certainty

IN FOCUS & LOCAL MEETINGS for 10/14/23

https://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/in-focus-local-meetings-for-101423.html

Inslee formally requests federal aid for Spokane County wildfire survivors

 

October 04, 2023

Gov. Jay Inslee today sent a letter to President Biden asking for a major disaster declaration and requesting federal assistance to help survivors recover from damages incurred by wildfires in Spokane County from August 18 to 25. During that time, the Gray and Oregon Road fires killed two people and destroyed more homes than any other fire in state history.

Inslee asked the president to make financial assistance for wildfire survivors available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Individual Assistance program. If approved, the program would provide financial assistance and direct services to eligible individuals and households who have uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses and serious needs.

Inslee also requested the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency assist with debris management and disposal, with a focus on preventing debris and contaminants from impacting local waterways.  

The letter follows previous steps by the Governor’s Office to assist Spokane County communities with recovery from the August wildfires. Inslee previously made available $2.5 million from his office’s emergency assistance fund to help with individual assistance as well as testing and removal of debris for uninsured homeowners impacted by the fires. Additional funds will also be made available for debris removal from state Department of Commerce emergency response funds. The department will be working with Spokane County officials to determine an amount. Press release dated 10/4/23

IN OTHER STATE NEWS HEADLINES:

WSDA NOW ACCEPTING SPECIALTY CROP BLOCK GRANT PROPOSALS

PROPOSALS DUE OCT. 24

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is now accepting concept proposals for the 2024 Specialty Crop Block Grant.--WSDA 

The essence of Washington-grown grapes: A toast to excellence.

When it comes to viticulture (growing grapes) and viniculture (making wine), Washington State is a national leader. ---WSDA

AG Ferguson creates Indian boarding schools Truth & Reconciliation Tribal Advisory Committee.

OLYMPIA — Following the National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools on Saturday, Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced today the five members of his office’s Truth & Reconciliation Tribal Advisory Committee. The committee will study how Washington state can address the harms caused by the government’s historical role in the shameful legacy of Indian boarding schools.---WAAG

Native plants take root in Hangman Creek

Hangman Creek sees largest riparian restoration effort in Spokane County’s history---DOE

Cleaning up: Fieldwork continues on Bellingham’s working waterfront.

The Central Waterfront site of the Bellingham Bay cleanup is on course for cleanup construction to begin in 2026. ---DOE

2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION

KILMER ANNOUNCES NEW FEDERAL BROADBAND INVESTMENTS FOR LOWER ELWHA KLALLAM, SKOKOMISH INDIAN TRIBES

TACOMA, WA – Today, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) announced a significant investment by the U.S. Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). NTIA awarded a total of $1 million through the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP), including $500,000 to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and $500,000 to the Skokomish Indian Tribe, both for Broadband Infrastructure Deployment projects./ press release issued 10/3/23

KILMER STATEMENT ON HOUSE RESOLUTION TO VACATE THE OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) released the following statement after voting to vacate the Office of the Speaker of the House--press release issued 10/3/23

Cantwell Calls for Hearing on How Fentanyl Crisis is Impacting Indian Country

Recent increase in overdose deaths have devastated many Tribal communities in Washington state/ press release issued 10/3/23

Senators Murray and Collins Statement Following Senate Appropriations Committee Briefing on Ukraine

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Chair and Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee respectively, issued the below statement following a classified Senate Appropriations Committee briefing on U.S. Assistance to Ukrainian Air Defenses./ press release issued 10/4/23

Senators Murray, Cantwell, Representative McMorris Rodgers Urge President Biden to Make Major Disaster Declaration for Gray and Oregon Road Fires in Eastern Washington/ press release issued 10/4/23

3) WORLD, NATIONAL, & BUSINESS

WORLD:

Speakers Call for New Innovative Methods of International Tax Cooperation, Reform of Inequitable Global Financial System, as Second Committee Takes Up Reports

Multidimensional macroeconomic crises are stalling or even reversing gains in development and poverty reduction, requiring not only urgent, comprehensive reform of an inequitable global financial system, but also new, innovative international tax cooperation, United Nations experts warned today, as the Second Committee (Economic and Financial) took up that issue./UN PRESS RELEASE

Amid Record Temperatures, Floods, Fires, More Investment in Disaster Resilience, Adaptation Key to Safe Future, Secretary-General Says in Observance Message/ UN PRESS RELEASE

With Children at Higher Risk of Severe Rights Violations, Third Committee Emphasizes Need to Regulate Digital Spheres, Boost Protection Regimes

Increased Internet Connectivity Helps Realize Children’s Rights, but Sophisticated Technologies Pose Risk of Abuse and Sexual Exploitation, UN Official States/ UN PRESS RELEASE

Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on the Adoption of the Political Declarations of the High-Level Meetings on Health/USUN

Secretary Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, Attorney General Merrick Garland, White House Homeland Security Advisor Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall, Mexican Secretary of Public Security and Citizen Protection Rosa Icela Rodriguez Velázquez, And Mexican Foreign Secretary Alicia Bárcena At a Joint Press Availability/US STATE DEPT.

NATION

DOD Remains Focused on Deterring Conflict in Indo-Pacific.

The U.S. remains fully committed to its strategy of integrated deterrence in the Indo-Pacific while keeping a close eye on China's provocations in the region, a senior Pentagon official said today./DOD

Woman Pleads Guilty to $359M Fraud Involving Claims for Unnecessary Respiratory Tests Submitted with COVID-19 Tests/DOJ

Biden-Harris Administration Announces an Additional $9 Billion in Student Debt Relief.

The Biden-Harris administration announced today that an additional 125,000 Americans have been approved for $9 billion in debt relief through fixes the U.S. Department of Education has made to income-driven repayment (IDR) and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), and granting automatic relief for borrowers with total and permanent disabilities. Today's announcement brings the total approved debt cancellation by the Biden-Harris Administration to $127 billion for nearly 3.6 million Americans./ DEPT.of EDUCATION

HUD Announces Over $75 Million in Loan Guarantees for Public Safety, Facility Improvements, Economic Development, and Housing Projects/HUD

FDA Takes Steps to Advance the Development of Novel Therapies for Stimulant Use Disorders/FDA

BUSINESS

Introducing the Seven Finalists for America’s Top Small Business 2023

These exceptional finalists are leaders in innovation and community engagement, come from diverse backgrounds, and are a snapshot of American small businesses today./ US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FTC Data Shows Consumers Report Losing $2.7 Billion to Social Media Scams Since 2021

New data spotlight shows that in 2023 online shopping scams are the most commonly reported social media scam, but consumers reported losing more money to investment scams/FTC

The Role of Research, Data, and Analysis in Banking Reforms

Governor Michelle W. Bowman

At the 2023 Community Banking Research Conference sponsored by the Federal Reserve System, the Conference of State Bank Supervisors, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, St. Louis, Missouri/THE FED

USDA Announces $27.6 Million to Support Underserved and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers through the 2501 Program/USDA

IRS issues guidance for the transfer of clean vehicle credits and updates frequently asked questions/IRS

IN FOCUS & LOCAL MEETINGS FOR 10/7/23

https://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/in-focus-local-meetings-for-10723.html

AG Ferguson’s statement after successfully defending high-capacity magazine sales ban in federal court.

 

Source link: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-s-statement-after-successfully-defending-high-capacity-magazine

YAKIMA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson released the following statement today after a federal judge in Yakima rejected an attempt by the Silent Majority Foundation to block Washington’s ban on the sale of high-capacity magazines:

“Washington state is undefeated in court against challenges to Washington’s common-sense firearm safety laws. My office wrote this law. It is constitutional. It will save lives. I look forward to continuing to successfully defend it.”

Background

In March of 2022, the Washington Legislature passed the law, requested by Ferguson, which bans the sale of ammunition magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Marko Liias, D-Lynnwood. Ferguson had pursued the policy every year since 2016, after a 19-year-old used an assault weapon and a high-capacity magazine to kill three students and seriously wound a fourth in Mukilteo. 

A few months after the shooting, in September 2016, Ferguson stood beside parents of shooting victims, legislators, mayors, police chiefs and representatives of the faith community and vowed to continue proposing legislation to ban the sale of high-capacity magazines every year until it passed.

Thirteen states, including Washington, and the District of Columbia all restrict high-capacity magazines. In November, Oregon joined Washington after voters there approved Measure 114, which restricted magazine capacity and required a permit to purchase firearms in Oregon.

Washington’s law went into effect in July of 2022. Though the plaintiffs in the case argued that they are “irreparably” harmed by it, they did not seek a preliminary injunction to block the law for more than three months after it was in effect. 

Today, U.S. District Court Judge Mary K. Dimke denied the plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction. Judge Dimke found the plaintiffs are unlikely to succeed on the merits because they failed to establish that the Second Amendment applies to the regulation of high-capacity magazines.

From the decision: “ESSB 5078 is the product of the democratically elected Washington legislature. If the Court is to declare ESSB 5078 unconstitutional, it will not do so lightly. Injunctive relief is ‘an extraordinary remedy that may only be awarded upon a clear showing that the plaintiff is entitled to such relief.’ … The Court will not reduce the evidentiary rigor required for an injunction such that Plaintiffs may obtain one here by citing to articles found on the internet, without explaining their academic and scientific worth, or historic accuracy. … At present, the evidence in the record is insufficient to establish that Plaintiffs are likely to prove that large capacity magazines fall within the Second Amendment right.”

Multiple other federal courts have upheld laws limiting magazine capacity. In July, a federal judge in Oregon upheld that state’s new law. In that challenge, Judge Karin J. Immergut ruled that Oregon’s restriction on high-capacity magazines is lawful under the test established by the U.S. Supreme Court’s most recent firearms ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen.

There is a second challenge to Washington’s high-capacity magazine sales ban pending in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, filed by the Second Amendment Foundation and the Firearms Policy Coalition, among other parties.

Assistant Attorneys General July Simpson, William McGinty, Andrew Hughes and Brian Hunt Rowe, First Assistant Attorney General Kristin Beneski, Legal Assistant Christine Truong and Paralegal Amy Hand are handling the case for Washington.

Successfully defending Washington’s firearms safety laws

The Attorney General’s Office is undefeated in defending state law from attacks by the gun lobby:

Northwest School of Safety v. Ferguson: Plaintiffs including the Second Amendment Foundation challenge to Initiative 594, which required background checks on all gun sales.

Mitchell v. Atkins: Plaintiffs including the National Rifle Association and the Second Amendment Foundation challenge to Initiative 1639, which restricted the sale of assault weapons to individuals over the age of 21, and imposed background check requirements.

Slone v. Washington: Plaintiffs including Gun Owners of America challenge to I-1639.

Silent Majority Foundation, et al. v. Jay Inslee, et al.: Plaintiffs including the Silent Majority Foundation challenge to House Bill 1705, banning ghost guns.

Hartford et al. v. Ferguson et al.:  Plaintiffs including the Second Amendment Foundation and the Firearms Policy Coalition challenge to House Bill 1240, which bans the sale of assault weapons in Washington.

Guardian Arms v. Inslee: Plaintiffs including the Silent Majority Foundation challenge to House Bill 1240, which bans the sale of assault weapons in Washington.

The Attorney General’s Office has also successfully brought cases to enforce firearms safety laws:

State of Washington, et al., v. U.S. Department of State et al.: Defendants including Defense Distributed and the Second Amendment Foundation, sought to distribute 3D-printable gun files.

State of Washington v. Federal Way Discount Guns: Defendants represented initially by the Silent Majority Foundation sold high-capacity magazines in violation of Washington law.

State of Washington v. Gator’s Custom Guns: Defendants unlawfully offered more than 11,400 high-capacity magazines for sale. 

In other State News Headlines:

Judge orders Seattle business scamming immigrants to pay back victims, plus interest.---WAAG

Commerce awards $35.4 million for solar power with battery back-up systems to bolster community resilience--WA COMMERCE DEPT.

Ecology taking broad environmental planning look at potential solar, onshore wind energy facilities.

OLYMPIA  – 

Earlier this year, the Washington Legislature passed a law to support renewable power by focusing on ways to improve siting processes for clean energy facilities.--DOE

Environmental penalties issued for first half of 2023.

OLYMPIA  – 

The Washington Department of Ecology issued $562,540 in penalties of $1,000 or more from Jan. 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023. $422,640 of that total was issued in the first quarter and $139,900 in the second quarter. A detailed list of the violations and resulting penalties is in the table below.--DOE

Statement on NPS and USFWS draft EIS and proposed 10(j) rule for restoring grizzly bears to the North Cascades.

“We are committed to grizzly bear recovery in Washington and will engage with the federal agencies as required by law,” said Eric Gardner, WDFW Wildlife Program Director. “WDFW has been an active participant in the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, working alongside other western states for the conservation and management of the species. The addition of the proposed 10(j) rule would allow for more management flexibility in Washington and increased collaboration with our federal partners.”---WDFW

2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION

Seattle’s Ada Developers Academy Wins $714K Federal Grant to Train Women Software Developers

Cantwell: WA expects “A 60,000 STEM worker shortfall by 2026 … We’ll never have enough workers if we don’t include more women”--PRESS RELEASE

Cantwell Announces Colville & Spokane Tribes to Strengthen, Modernize Electrical Grid With $5.44M in Federal Grants

Cantwell: Investments to help lower energy costs while helping ensure the lights stay on during an emergency--PRESS RELEASE

KILMER, BACON INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH CARE IN RURAL COMMUNITIES

"Across the country, there is a critical shortage of facilities dedicated to mental health and SUD treatments. This deficit spans from inpatient beds to essential step-down services like intensive outpatient programs and partial hospitalization. Consequently, numerous patients are left without appropriate care, often finding themselves in emergency departments as a last resort. A case in point is Seattle Children’s Hospital, where a staggering 50% or more of emergency beds are consistently occupied by children awaiting mental health care. Such extended stays not only adversely affect the well-being of these patients but also strain the hospital’s capacity to address other emergent situations."--PRESS RELEASE

Senator Murray Applauds Committee Passage of Bipartisan SAFER Banking Act, Pushes to Get Cannabis Banking Bill Across the Finish Line--PRESS RELEASE

3) WORLD, NATIONAL, & BUSINESS HEADLINES:

Only 15 Per Cent of Global Development Goals on Track, as Multiple Factors Stall, Hamper, Reverse Inclusive and Sustained Development, Third Committee Stresses

But with Fundamental Shift in Global Behaviour, Still Possible to Achieve Just, Peaceful, Sustainable World, UN Official States--UN PRESS RELEASE

Conflicts, Disasters Driving More Migrants to Risk Mediterranean Crossing, Briefers Warn Security Council Ahead of Libya Mandate Decision

The Mediterranean remains a perilous route for a swelling number of migrants and asylum seekers trying to reach Europe, Security Council members said today, as they discussed the situation in the high seas off Libya ahead of a decision to renew resolution 2240 (2015), which authorizes States and regional groups to inspect and seize vessels in that area suspected of being used for migrant smuggling or human trafficking.--UN PRESS RELEASE

Statement by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield on the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States--USUN

Remarks at a UN Security Council Meeting on Maintenance of International Peace and Security--USUN

How the People’s Republic of China Seeks to Reshape the Global Information Environment---STATE DEPT.

NATION

President Joe Biden to Establish First-Ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, To Be Overseen by Vice President Kamala Harris--WH dated 9/21/23

Released From North Korea, U.S. Soldier Now in Texas.

This week, Army Pvt. Travis T. King was released from North Korean custody and returned to American authorities. King is now back in the U.S., in San Antonio, Texas, said Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh.--DOD

Hospice Medical Director Sentenced for $150M Hospice Fraud Scheme.

According to court documents, from 2009 to 2018, Jesus Virlar-Cadena, 52, served as the medical director of the Merida Group, a large health care company that operated dozens of locations throughout Texas. ---DOJ

Biden-Harris Administration Moves Forward with Student Debt Relief Negotiated Rulemaking to Deliver Support to as Many Borrowers as Possible as Quickly as Possible--DEPT. OF EDUCATION

EPA Reaches Agreement with Navajo Tribal Utility Authority to Improve Wastewater Treatment--EPA

BUSINESS: 

Justice Department Secures Agreement with California-Based Manufacturer to Resolve Immigration-Related Discrimination Claims.---DOJ

Biden-Harris Administration Outlines Strategies to Invest in High-Quality Workforce Development--US TREASURY DEPT. 

Closing Remarks

Governor Lisa D. Cook

At the Minorities in Banking Forum, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Dallas, Texas.--THE FED

USDA to Begin Issuing $1.75 Billion to Agricultural Producers Through Critical Emergency Relief Programs--USDA

BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION AWARDS $16M TO IMPROVE JOB QUALITY, EXPAND ACCESS TO GOOD JOBS IN CRITICAL SECTORS, INCLUDING CARE, CLIMATE RESILIENCE, HOSPITALITY--DEPT. of LABOR

IN FOCUS & LOCAL MEETINGS.

For 9/27/23

https://pr2345.blogspot.com/p/in-focus-local-meetings-for-92723.html

AG Ferguson’s innovative unemployment fraud recovery initiative nets $42 million.

 

Source Link: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-s-innovative-unemployment-fraud-recovery-initiative-nets-42-million

Ferguson one of the only state AGs to use forfeiture laws to recoup stolen funds

SEATTLE — Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced today that an innovative fraud recovery initiative netted a total of $42 million in stolen funds from 26 financial institutions. 

The announcement marks the end of Ferguson’s first phase to retrieve money from banks and other financial institutions where scammers still had remaining funds. While multiple states suffered substantial losses, Ferguson was the first and remains one of the only state attorneys general who exercised state asset forfeiture powers to recover these taxpayer dollars. As a result, Washington has recovered a total of more than $420 million in stolen funds. The Attorney General’s Office will continue to assist in federal investigations to recover stolen funds, as well as investigate any liability of banks and financial technology companies for Washington’s losses.

“Our innovative use of the law to recover stolen funds led the nation,” Ferguson said. “We delivered results for taxpayers and unemployed Washingtonians.”

Beginning in April 2020, Washington's unemployment insurance program was one of the first to suffer an unprecedented and massive nationwide attack of imposter fraud. 

Sophisticated fraud rings used identity data harvested from data breaches to steal billions of dollars from 53 government programs that received federal pandemic unemployment benefits, according to a recent government accountability report. While the exact extent of the fraud is still unknown, the same report estimated losses to fraud nationally to be as much as $135 billion.

Soon after the thefts, Ferguson initiated an investigation searching for bank accounts where scammers did not withdraw all their stolen funds and launched a legal effort to reclaim these funds for the state. To date, financial institutions across the country cooperated with the investigation. Essentially, the Attorney General recovered stolen money in accounts at banks and other financial institutions that criminals were unable to withdraw.

Washington state’s Employment Security Department estimates that during the COVID-19 pandemic, fraudulent claims accounted for $647 million, or 3%, of the overall $21.7 billion in unemployment benefits paid to workers. The state has recovered $423.6 million so far – more than two-thirds of the stolen funds. The Attorney General’s innovative use of forfeiture laws brought in 10% of that total.

This leaves approximately $223.4 million lost to fraud so far, which amounts to 1% of the total $21.7 billion in benefits. Consequently, 99% of the unemployment benefits went, as intended, to support workers during the pandemic.

Other states experienced much larger losses to fraud, like California at $18.7 billion. Arizona lost $4.4 billion and Virginia lost $1.6 billion to fraud, and both have similar-sized populations to Washington state.

According to department data, it caught the fraud within the first two weeks and decided to pause benefit payments, which prevented payment on more than 100,000 fraudulent claims. Its finance team then collected and analyzed fraud data and determined that 95% of fraudulent payments went to 75 banks. From there, the department specified that it contacted each bank and attempted to recover funds. This effort included sharing fraud data with the banks and reaching resolutions on the amounts available to return.

“We're thankful for our partnership with the Attorney General," said Commissioner Cami Feek, "It’s wonderful to see our collaboration and hard work paying off. Fraud recovery has been a long road; however, our collective efforts have made us a leader in fraud recovery nationally and a resource for advice and guidance for other states.”

Searching for accounts with red flags

The Attorney General’s Office used the department’s data and subpoenaed more than 35 banks across the country to identify accounts with balances of $1,000 or more that bore red flags or indicators of fraud.

Red flags included:

Accounts that received unemployment benefit payments from multiple states;

Accounts that received deposits of unemployment benefits to multiple people; or

A mismatch between the personal information of the account holder and the person who supposedly applied for the benefits deposited in the account.

Ferguson filed cases to recover stolen funds remaining in accounts at 26 different financial institutions. In part because of these forfeiture litigation efforts and the assistance provided to the department, Washington was more successful than other states in mitigating, and securing recoveries of, unemployment fraud losses — helping to preserve funds for the benefit of unemployed workers. 

The funds recovered by the Attorney General’s forfeiture initiative go back into the state unemployment trust fund and to the federal treasury.

Special Assistant Attorney General Jeff Sprung in the Complex Litigation Division is leading this effort, along with Assistant Attorneys General Martha Rodriguez Lopez, Spencer Coates, Kendall Scott Cowles, Erica Franklin, John Nelson, Lia Pernell and Nick Quijas, paralegals Sara Cearley and Kellie Tappan, legal assistant Victoria Johnson and investigator Greg Coleman.--WAAG press release

In other state news:

AG prosecutors seek to prevent release of Pierce County sex offender.

TACOMA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson filed a petition today urging a Pierce County Superior Court judge to civilly commit a sex offender to McNeil Island, preventing his release into the community.

Marlon S. Mount, 44, was convicted in Pierce County of second-degree child rape in 1995, and second-degree assault and unlawful imprisonment in 2001. He was later convicted in Mason County of third-degree child rape in 2018. Mount is in prison and due for release on Sept. 30. The Attorney General’s Office petitioned to have him committed, alleging that he is mentally ill and dangerous.--WAAG press release

Washington Community Economic Revitalization Board invests $6.75 million in Benton, Kittitas, Klickitat and Whitman counties.

State funds will leverage more than $1 billion in private and local resources expected to create and retain 210 high-wage jobs.

OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) today approved $6.6 million in low-interest loans and $150,000 in grants for economic development and public infrastructure improvements intended to spur business growth and job creation in Benton, Kittitas, Klickitat and Whitman counties.---WA COMMERCE DEPT. Press release

WDFW invites public comment on rule making to offer incentives for chronic wasting disease testing.

SPOKANE – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) invites the public to attend a virtual hearing and submit input on a proposed rule change that would allow WDFW to offer an incentive to hunters who have their harvested deer and elk tested for chronic wasting disease (CWD).---WDFW PRESS RELEASE

Public comment period for black bear timber damage permit rule proposal extended.

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has extended a public comment period about the Department’s proposed rule change to revise how WDFW issues black bear timber damage depredation permits. The public now has until Friday, Oct. 27 to submit comments.--WDFW PRESS RELEASE

Secretary of State Steve Hobbs encourages Washingtonians to participate in National Voter Registration.

OLYMPIA — For National Voter Registration Day, the Office of the Secretary of State will host a voter registration station at Gonzaga University Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Students will be able to sign up as new voters or update their registrations at the registration table in the rotunda of the John J. Hemmingson Center, 702 East Desmet Avenue, Spokane.--SEC OF STATE DATED 9/18/23

2) NEWS FROM OUR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION

KILMER, TIMMONS SPEARHEAD BIPARTISAN “FIX CONGRESS CAUCUS”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives and Co-Chairs of the Fix Congress Caucus Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and William Timmons (SC-04) launched the Fix Congress Caucus, a bipartisan group of lawmakers committed to making Congress more effective, efficient, and transparent for the American people.--PRESS RELEASE DATED 9/21/23

KILMER NAMED WINNER OF AWARD FOR INNOVATION AND MODERNIZATION IN CONGRESS.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) received the Democracy Award for Innovation and Modernization at the Congressional Management Foundation’s (CMF) annual awards ceremony. The Democracy Award is CMF’s award recognizing non-legislative achievement and performance in congressional offices. The Innovation and Modernization category honors offices for their outstanding achievements in innovation and modernization of their office services, practices, and the institution of Congress around them.--September 18, 2023, PRESS RELEASE

Washington Rail Systems to Receive $76.8M in Infrastructure Upgrades Thanks to Cantwell-Championed Program

Palouse River & Coulee City Railroad - a vital corridor for WA-grown wheat - gets $72.8 million to help safely transport bigger, faster rail cars; Tacoma Rail gets $4.095 million to swap two diesel cars with electric cars & reduce dangerous emissions--Cantwell press release dated 09.20.23

09.16.23

Cantwell Celebrates Grand Opening of Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension Line

New transit line connects Downtown, Dome, Stadium, & Hilltop with fast & reliable service; Cantwell delivers remarks at grand opening: “Tacoma & the Hilltop neighborhood is on the rise”--PRESS RELEASE

September 20, 2023

Senator Murray Presses VA Officials About Mental Health Care Wait Times, Outreach to Veterans Experiencing Homelessness at Veterans Committee Hearing on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention--PRESS RELEASE

September 19, 2023

Senator Murray Remarks on House CR Proposal, Senate Funding Minibus, Preventing Shutdown.

“Thank you. As you all know, I’ve been working with Senator Collins from the start of the year to make sure we have an open, bipartisan appropriations process.

“And just last week, 91 Senators voted to proceed to our first funding package, and every bill in that package passed our Committee unanimously this past summer. press release

3) WORLD, NATIONAL & BUSINESS

Climate Funds for Fragile States, Action to Reach Net Zero, Not Mere Promises, Only Way to Build Low-Carbon Future, Speakers Stress on Day Three of General Debate

Building resilience and tackling the adverse impact of climate change should be an urgent priority for all, world leaders stressed today, as the General Assembly high-level debate concluded the third day of its deliberations, with speakers emphasizing that no meaningful climate action or development can take place in conditions of financial distress.--UN PRESS RELEASE

Concluding Security Council Open Debate, Speakers Stress Dialogue, Diplomacy Based on Charter Principles Needed for Peaceful Resolution to War in Ukraine

As the Security Council concluded its high-level open debate on effective multilateralism and the maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine, speakers underscored the need for dialogue, diplomacy and a just peace among Member States, stressing the need to uphold the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, in efforts to bring a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine. ---UN PRESS RELEASE

Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at a Ministerial-Level Meeting on UNRWA--USUN

Remarks by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield at the Annual Ministerial Meeting of the Least Developed Countries--USUN

Secretary Antony J. Blinken Video Remarks at the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP)’s Global Emerging Tech Summit--US STATE DEPT.

NATIONAL:

Biden Meets With Ukraine President, as U.S. Sends $325M Arms Package.

The U.S. today announced it will send an additional security assistance package for Ukraine valued at up to $325 million as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded his second visit to Washington since Russia launched its unprovoked invasion. --Sept. 21, 2023, DOD PRESS RELEASE

Nurse Practitioner Convicted of $200M Health Care Fraud Scheme.

A federal jury in Miami convicted a Florida nurse practitioner yesterday for her role in a scheme to defraud Medicare by submitting more than $200 million in false and fraudulent claims for expensive genetic testing and medical equipment that the Medicare beneficiaries did not need.--DOJ

U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights Announces Resolution of Disability Harassment Investigation of Allegheny Valley School District in Pennsylvania--DEPT. of EDUCATION

Adult Obesity Prevalence Remains High; Support for Prevention and Treatment Needed.

New population data from 2022 show 22 states have an adult obesity prevalence at or above 35%, compared to 19 states in 2021, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).--CDC PRESS RELEASE

HUD and VA Award $16 Million to Aid Homeless Veterans in Securing Permanent Housing

WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) awarded $16.1 million in HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) vouchers to 71 Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) across the country. This award will help homeless Veterans and their families find and sustain permanent housing. Please see the list of awardees --HUD PRESS RELEASE

BUSINESS:

Former CFO of Russian Natural Gas Company Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Prison for Tax Crimes.

Mark Anthony Gyetvay of Naples, Florida, was sentenced today to 86 months in prison for a scheme to hide millions of dollars of income in undisclosed Swiss bank accounts and submitting a false filing with the IRS. --DOJ

Generative AI, Productivity, the Labor Market, and Choice Behavior

Governor Lisa D. Cook

At the National Bureau of Economic Research Economics of Artificial Intelligence Conference, Fall 2023, Toronto, Canada--THE FED

Brief Remarks on the Economy and Monetary Policy

Governor Michelle W. Bowman

At Independent Community Bankers of Colorado, Golden Jubilee, Vail, Colorado--THE FED

USDA Invests Nearly a Half Billion Dollars in the Food for Progress and McGovern Dole Programs to Strengthen Global Food Security Using US Commodities--USDA

Tracking Budget Talks: What a Shutdown Would Mean for Businesses, Economy.---US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

 IN FOCUS AND LOCAL MEETINGS FOR 9/23/23