Stories by Andy Nghiem on Federal Newswire


HBCU: EPA establishes council to enhance opportunities for schools that have 'produced some of the greatest minds in American history'

The Environmental Protection Agency recently announced it has established an internal council to advance opportunities for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).


DOT reports air travel key metrics for December 2021 and 2021 overall for the year

The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced the release of air travel metrics for December 2021 and the calendar year of 2021.


'Cleaner air for communities': US, Louisiana reach $3.35 million settlement with Firestone Polymers

The United States and the state of Louisiana has reached a settlement with Firestone Polymers that will help ensure cleaner air in Louisiana.


EPA lauds Maine wastewater facility, laboratory technician for 'outstanding contributions' to state's water quality

The New England office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized a wastewater treatment facility and a dedicated laboratorian for their efforts to improve water quality in Maine.


U.S. Departments of Commerce and Homeland Security complete one-year assessment of crucial software and hardware supply chains

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas recently announced the completion of a one-year assessment of crucial supply chains that support the U.S.' information and communications technology (ICT) industry.


DHS officials partner with Seattle emergency response authorities to practice 'life-saving countermeasures in the event of a biological attack'

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently partnered with Seattle officials to conduct virtual exercises testing their preparedness for bioterrorist incidents.



'We need engagement:' EPA seeks public input on lead-exposure strategy

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced recently that it is extending the period for public comment on a draft of its plan to address and reduce lead exposure in vulnerable communities.



EPA adds four chemicals to list of toxic releases 'to safeguard communities'

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently announced that it has added four per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to its Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) list.


'This trade can resume safely': Canada to resume exporting potatoes to Puerto Rico

The U.S. States Department of Agriculture recently announced that the import of potatoes from Canada to the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico could resume.


USDA to provide $7 million in grant funding to 'increase the competitiveness of the U.S. maple syrup industry'

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)'s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) recently announced $7 million in grant funding to help strengthen the U.S. maple syrup industry.


APHIS announces initiative that will work to 'detect new disease threats and provide intelligence to our public health partners'

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) recently announced the Final Strategic Framework that will advance surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging diseases.


'New funding will bring needed improvements': DOT awards $45 million to support ferry service in 11 states

The U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently announced more than $45 million in grants to improve public transportation in 11 states and territories.



EPA settlement with gas station retailer 'protects communities across Puerto Rico'

The United States Environmental Protect Agency reached a settlement recently with Puerto Rico-based To-Go Stores LLC that includes paying a $125,000 civil penalty and other measures to resolve alleged violations of federal environmental laws at multiple locations.



Arizona graduates of EPA program lauded for 'resolving environmental challenges'

Nine Arizona residents have graduated from a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) job-training program for people from communities near a Superfund site and now have the skills needed to conduct environmental cleanup work.



EPA seeks input on screening tests on risks to chemical exposure

Public input and peer reviews are being sought by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on the agency's proposed screening methodology to evaluate potential chemical exposure risks to communities near industrial facilities.


EPA recognizes Arizona business for reducing food waste which 'represents an environmental and economic benefit'

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently recognized two Arizona businesses for reducing food waste and preventing greenhouse gases.


'We continue to stand with our partners in the region': U.S. condemns recent ISIS attacks on Syrian detention center

The U.S. Department of State has denounced the recent attack on the Hasakah Provincial Internal Security Forces detention center.


USDA, DOJ launch online system to 'create livestock and poultry markets that are fairer to our nation’s producers'

The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Justice have partnered to launch an online tool for farmers and ranchers to report anticompetitive practices.


USDA updates school meal standards to 'give America’s children the foundation for successful, healthy lives'

On Feb. 4, the U.S. Department of Agriculture updated nutrition standards for schools.


DOL advises against doing business in Burma in response to allegations of corruption, illicit finance and human rights abuses

The U.S. Department of Labor, in collaboration with the departments of Treasury, State, Commerce, Homeland Security and U.S. trade representatives, have issued an advisory highlighting legal risks in Burma in response to allegations of corruption, illicit finance and human rights abuses.