Stories by Federal Newswire on Federal Newswire


Biden-Harris Administration allocates $9.9M for abandoned mine cleanup in Colorado

The Department of the Interior has announced over $9.9 million in fiscal year 2024 funding from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to address abandoned mine lands (AML) in Colorado. This initiative aims to create jobs and stimulate economic growth while addressing environmental issues.


Justice Department announces nearly $30M in grants against hate crimes

The Department of Justice has announced nearly $30 million in grant funding to combat the rise in hate and bias crimes. The funding, distributed through the Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will support law enforcement agencies, states, community-based organizations, national civil rights organizations, and other stakeholders. These grants aim to improve the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes, solve cold cases, serve victims, and support related research.


AIA urges Congress for long-term funding after continuing resolution passage

The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) President and CEO Eric Fanning commended Congress for passing a continuing resolution that maintains key functions, including the Department of Defense (DOD), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).


Biden administration awards nearly $17 million for clean energy projects

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the latest recipients of awards from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program, part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. This round will distribute $16.9 million to 22 local governments and the state of New York to enhance energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lower overall energy use.


TechNet supports legislation to establish permanent AI Safety Institute

TechNet has announced its support for the Future of AI Innovation Act and the AI Advancement and Reliability Act. These bills aim to establish the U.S. AI Safety Institute (AISI) within NIST permanently. The AISI focuses on developing standardized metrics for frontier AI, improving testing and validation methods, and supporting global coordination on AI safety issues.


Interior Department announces $254 million investment in local parks

The Department of the Interior has announced a historic investment from the Land and Water Conservation Fund’s Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP). The National Park Service (NPS) will allocate $254.68 million to 54 projects across 24 states for the redevelopment or creation of local parks.


CCIA argues against Texas social media law in Fifth Circuit

The Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) and its co-plaintiff NetChoice have returned to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in Texas. This marks their first brief since the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that online speech deserves First Amendment protection. The court has requested further briefing on how CCIA and NetChoice should proceed with their First Amendment challenge to Texas HB20 and a similar Florida law, SB7072, following the Supreme Court's finding that Texas has likely violated the Constitution but that the scope of the challenge may need adjustment.


House committee advances bipartisan bill targeting international trade crimes

The House Judiciary Committee has passed the bipartisan Protecting American Industry and Labor from International Trade Crimes Act with unanimous support. The bill, introduced by Chairman John Moolenaar (R-MI), Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA), and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), aims to combat trade crimes such as fraud, duty evasion, and transshipment often committed by Chinese companies. The legislation directs the Department of Justice to establish a new structure dedicated to prosecuting international trade crimes.


EPA signs pact with airport authority over PFAS in Tuscon's main aquifer

Responding to the urgent threat of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the Tucson aquifer, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has entered into an agreement with Tucson Airport Authority. This agreement aims to address contamination from the airport property, aiming to combat an ongoing threat to a primary drinking water source for the city of Tucson.


Biden-Harris administration awards $71M in grants to improve job quality

The Biden-Harris administration has announced the allocation of approximately $71 million in grants aimed at improving job quality, expanding access to good jobs in critical sectors, and preparing workers for new employment opportunities. This funding is part of the administration's Investing in America agenda.


USDA highlights advancements in equity during final national convening

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) held its Final Equity Convening in Washington, D.C., to mark the achievements of the USDA Equity Commission and highlight progress made under the Biden-Harris Administration. The event, held at USDA Headquarters, was the culmination of a series of equity summits and regional convenings aimed at emphasizing equity and inclusion within USDA programs.


United States announces new $375 million military aid package for Ukraine

The United States has announced a new military assistance package for Ukraine valued at $375 million. This aid comes as Ukraine continues to defend itself against ongoing attacks from Russia.


EPA settles with meat company over chemical risk violations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached a Clean Air Act (CAA) settlement with Mountain Meadows Lamb Corporation, operating as Superior Farms, Inc. This resolves alleged violations of toxic chemical-related regulations at the company's North Denver meat processing facility located at 4900 Clarkson Street, Denver, Colorado.


EPA partners with AmeriCorps to launch Environmental Justice Climate Corps

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and AmeriCorps have announced the launch of the Environmental Justice Climate Corps, a new initiative introduced as part of President Biden’s American Climate Corps. This announcement was made on September 25 during Climate Week NYC.


FTC targets deceptive use of artificial intelligence in new crackdown

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has initiated a crackdown on deceptive claims and schemes involving artificial intelligence (AI) through its new law enforcement sweep, Operation AI Comply. The FTC is taking action against several companies accused of using AI to engage in deceptive or unfair practices that harm consumers.


Biden administration addresses concerns over information blocking rules

The Biden administration is set to clarify information blocking rules, addressing concerns raised by the American Medical Association (AMA). In a letter, the AMA expressed support for clear exceptions that allow patients to request physicians deliver life-changing information rather than making it immediately available on electronic health records. The proposal also permits physicians to protect patients from efforts to criminalize reproductive health care without facing penalties.


DOE launches pilot project to measure greenhouse gas intensity

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a pilot project to measure the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of certain industrial products. This initiative aims to address the growing global demand for materials produced with low emissions, driven by new climate-focused trade policies, national green procurement efforts like the Biden-Harris Administration’s Buy Clean initiative, international accords, industry commitments, and consumer preferences.


ICPEN Fall Conference to feature key addresses from FTC officials

Chair Lina Khan will deliver opening remarks on Wednesday, September 25. Commissioner Alvaro Bedoya will deliver remarks on Thursday, September 26, and Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Sam Levine will deliver remarks on Friday, September 27.


New op-ed questions impact of age verification tech on young disabled people

CDT’s Aliya Bhatia and Ariana Aboulafia have collaborated on a new op-ed that was published in Teen Vogue on September 24, 2024. The article discusses the impact of age verification technology on young disabled people.


USDA advises preparedness as Hurricane Helene approaches

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a reminder to communities, farmers, ranchers, families, and small businesses in the path of Hurricane Helene about available assistance programs. USDA staff at regional, state, and county offices are prepared to help.