News and reports from the .

By H. B. Edwards | Mar 24, 2026

Senator Jeff Merkley has launched an inquiry into how private equity ownership affects major U.S. child care providers KinderCare Learning Companies and Learning Care Group. The investigation seeks details about finances, safety standards, tuition trends,and employment practices at these companies.

By F. E. Simons | Mar 24, 2026

A Hudson resident has been sentenced to over thirteen years in prison for possessing thousands of images depicting child sexual abuse. Federal investigators found evidence spanning more than a decade during their search.

By T. J. Graves | Mar 24, 2026

A Nigerian citizen has been sentenced for laundering proceeds from an international wire fraud scheme targeting businesses through fake emails. Authorities say he faces prison time followed by removal from the country.

By F. E. Simons | Mar 24, 2026

First Lady Melania Trump has launched Fostering the Future Together with representatives from 45 nations convening at its inaugural summit. The coalition focuses on expanding children's access to technology-driven education while promoting international cooperation among governments and tech companies.

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 24, 2026

Frances Pierce has been named Creative Media Assistant Intern at CAST for Spring/Summer 2026. She will support communications efforts while completing her studies at Oklahoma State University. Her work aligns with CAST's mission of sharing credible agricultural information.

By T. J. Graves | Mar 23, 2026

The U.S. Departments of Treasury and Education have launched a partnership to improve federal student aid programs amid rising loan defaults. The initiative aims to streamline operations by shifting some responsibilities from Education to Treasury.

By F. E. Simons | Mar 23, 2026

The U.S. Treasury has sanctioned a network accused of raising over $100 million for Hizballah through various international schemes since 2020. The move blocks assets linked to key individuals across multiple countries and aims to disrupt funding channels supporting militant activities.

By T. J. Graves | Mar 23, 2026

The Departments of Education and Treasury have launched a partnership aimed at improving federal student aid management amid rising loan defaults. Officials say this move will bring financial discipline to a $1.7 trillion portfolio affecting millions of Americans.

By F. E. Simons | Mar 23, 2026

U.S. Department of Education leaders visited schools in Vermont and West Virginia as part of their History Rocks! tour celebrating America's upcoming 250th birthday. The initiative aims to strengthen civic literacy by connecting students with foundational American principles through interactive activities.

By F. E. Simons | Mar 23, 2026

The Department of Treasury has released a report examining how technology can help combat illicit finance involving digital assets. Coin Center responded by highlighting both positive steps toward privacy protections and areas needing further attention. The organization urges continued focus on regulated entities rather than expanding surveillance requirements.

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 23, 2026

Cardinal Health has issued a voluntary recall for certain lots of its Webcol Large Alcohol Prep Pads due to microbial contamination that could pose health risks for vulnerable patients. The company urges consumers and healthcare providers to check their supplies and report any adverse reactions.

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 23, 2026

An Alabama doctor has been sentenced in Boston federal court for participating in a multi-million dollar telemedicine fraud scheme targeting Medicare through unnecessary equipment orders and genetic tests. Authorities say Tommie Robinson signed off on false documentation without patient contact or relationships.

By F. E. Simons | Mar 23, 2026

U.S. Customs and Border Protection will host a three-day career expo in San Antonio from March 24-26. Job seekers can learn about available roles and meet recruiters but should note that no interviews or job offers will occur during the event.

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 23, 2026

A Hopkins County woman faces federal charges after authorities allege she operated an unlicensed dog breeding facility under poor conditions while committing wire fraud through false claims about her animals. Kristine Michelle Hicks could face up to 20 years if convicted.

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 23, 2026

Two Costa Rican nationals have been extradited to Texas for alleged involvement in international drug trafficking operations after recent constitutional reforms allowed their transfer. Authorities say this case highlights growing cross-border cooperation against organized crime.

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 23, 2026

A Millvale man has been indicted by a Pittsburgh grand jury for allegedly transporting and possessing child sexual abuse material. Authorities say Robert William Bauer could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The case was investigated by the FBI as part of Project Safe Childhood.

By T. J. Graves | Mar 23, 2026

The Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST) is hosting two free webinars this April covering soil fertility tools and agricultural diversification policy in the Corn Belt region. The sessions are open access events designed for anyone involved or interested in agriculture.

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 23, 2026

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reminded small boat operators traveling into Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands about mandatory arrival reporting requirements. The agency highlighted fines starting at $5,000 for non-compliance and promoted its mobile ROAM app as an easy way for travelers to fulfill legal obligations.

By R. C. Jamison | Mar 23, 2026

Senators Rick Scott and Kirsten Gillibrand have introduced new legislation requiring country-of-origin labels for prescription drugs sold in America. Their bipartisan effort seeks greater transparency for consumers about where medicines come from.

By F. E. Simons | Mar 23, 2026

Segepo-FSM, Inc., based in Cold Spring, will pay $887,234 after allegations it improperly obtained and received forgiveness for a federal pandemic relief loan intended for small businesses. The agreement resolves claims brought under whistleblower provisions but does not determine liability.