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EPA proposes changes to sterilizer rules to protect medical supply chain and public health

The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed changes to regulations governing commercial sterilizers using ethylene oxide.


Suraksha Baral named 2025 CAST Science Communication Scholarship recipient

Suraksha Baral has been awarded the 2025 CAST Science Communication Scholarship for her work connecting scientific research with community action on sustainability issues. She will present her findings at an upcoming conference in St. Louis.


CAST releases activities report outlining transformation and future plans for 2026 and beyond

CAST has released its latest activities report summarizing two years of organizational change. The report highlights new initiatives planned for 2026 along with international outreach efforts.


CAST announces new guidelines for use of AI tools in publication process

The Council for Agricultural Science and Technology (CAST) has released new rules on how generative artificial intelligence tools may be used by authors and reviewers working on CAST publications. The guidelines require full disclosure of any AI usage while stressing that human contributors remain fully responsible for all published material.


CMS finalizes rule for electronic health care claims attachments and signatures

CMS has finalized a new rule setting national standards for electronic submission of health care claims attachments and signatures under HIPAA.


ICE reports arrests of individuals convicted of violent crimes on March 19

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement reported new arrests involving individuals convicted of violent crimes such as manslaughter and sexual assault. The agency says these actions are part of ongoing efforts to protect public safety.


Commerce and Energy Departments announce partnership for energy and AI infrastructure in Ohio

The Departments of Commerce and Energy have launched a major public-private initiative with SoftBank and AEP Ohio aimed at modernizing energy infrastructure in Southern Ohio while supporting advanced computing needs tied to artificial intelligence development. The plan involves significant foreign investment without raising costs for American families.


Louisville CBP intercepts shipment containing illicit drugs from France

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Louisville seized two types of illicit drugs hidden in a shipment from France labeled as a mini fridge/freezer. The package contained Ethylpentedrone Hydrochloride and Ketamine valued at $152,000.


Dunkirk man pleads guilty to theft of government funds involving COVID-19 fraud

Lamont Brown of Dunkirk has pleaded guilty to stealing government funds through fraudulent pandemic unemployment claims. Authorities say he orchestrated a scheme using stolen identities during COVID-19 relief efforts. Sentencing is set for August.


CBP AMO reports Miami interdiction and apprehension in suspected smuggling case

CBP AMO detailed its successful interdiction of a suspected smuggling vessel near Miami in tweets posted on March 19 and March 20, 2026.


CBP seizes cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine at Paso del Norte

Customs officers at Paso de Norte Port seized over 139 kilograms of cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine from a single vehicle on Feb. 28. The driver was arrested and federal prosecution is underway.


D.C. man sentenced to two years for assaulting taxi driver with firearm

Erick Blanco-Cordova has been sentenced to two years in prison for pointing a gun at a taxi driver during an incident in November 2019. His co-defendant received five years after being convicted by jury last year.


First Lady Melania Trump announces 2026 Spring Garden Tours at the White House

First Lady Melania Trump has announced dates for the annual Spring Garden Tours at the White House in April 2026. The public can visit several historic gardens during this free event with tickets distributed on-site each morning.


House leaders respond to White House release of federal AI framework

House Republican leaders responded after the White House released a federal artificial intelligence framework. They emphasized bipartisan cooperation for future AI legislation focused on innovation and consumer protection.


Whitehall Borough resident pleads guilty to cyberstalking and interstate threats

A Whitehall Borough man has pleaded guilty to multiple counts related to cyberstalking women across several states using technology. Sentencing is set for July as he faces significant prison time for violating protection orders.


Diane J. Sabatino highlights CBP drug seizure and World Cup border readiness

Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino reported on recent actions by CBP officers in Laredo involving a major cocaine seizure aided by K9 teams on March 19-20, 2026.


Durbin outlines obstacles to voter registration under proposed SAVE America Act

Senator Dick Durbin described potential barriers for voters under proposed new registration rules requiring proof of citizenship. He compared these requirements with past Supreme Court rulings on voting rights while highlighting possible impacts on millions without proper documents.


Durbin criticizes SAVE America Act and voter ID requirements in Senate speech

Senator Dick Durbin spoke against the SAVE America Act on March 20, arguing new voter ID requirements could prevent many Americans from registering. He cited studies showing millions lack required documents and compared costs for passports to a poll tax.


Senate passes resolution honoring leadership and legacy of Native women

The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution honoring American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women for their leadership during Women’s History Month. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Brian Schatz led the effort to recognize these women's contributions across various fields.


CBP details bird smuggling case and reflects on customs history in March 20 posts

On March 20, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection posted about a recent parrot smuggling interception at Brownsville Port of Entry and revisited its pre-2003 history as U.S. Customs focused on airport enforcement.