News from November 2023
Foreign firms divesting in China amid tensions and regulatory pressures
By Federal Newswire | Nov 27, 2023
Nicholas J. Lardy announced President Xi Jinping's recent assurances to U.S. CEOs conflicts with new data, revealing that, for the first time, foreign firms in China are net sellers of existing investments, exceeding $100 billion in outflows during Q1-Q3 2023, driven by United States-China tensions and Beijing's regulatory measures. This unprecedented change is a consequence of increasing geopolitical tension and regulatory pressures within China's economic environment. Lardy is a non-resident senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE).
Heritage Foundation establishes task force to tackle antisemitism
By Federal Newswire | Nov 27, 2023
Spurred by a recent wave of attacks against Jews in the United States and overseas, the Heritage Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based activist American conservative think tank, has created a task force to tackle antisemitism. This new endeavor is part of the foundation's continued commitment towards fighting discrimination and promoting societal harmony.
HUD hopes housing-based program will reduce health disparities
By Federal Newswire | Nov 26, 2023
The U.S. Housing of Urban Development (HUD) has revealed new actions in order to address the root causes of health disparities and foster interagency collaboration to ensure that all Americans can live a healthier life. This new approach, with the aid of HUD programs, is set to improve the country's social determinants of health through innovative initiatives.
EDU secretary: 'Our Raise the Bar agenda is educational substance, not sensationalism'
By Federal Newswire | Nov 26, 2023
U.S. Department of Education (EDU) Secretary Miguel Cardona recently took to Twitter to tout an educational program he believes will eliminate educator shortages and advance strategies that will strengthen and diversify the country’s educator pipeline. The said program, "Raise the Bar: Lead the World", is projected to empower communities through comprehensive education from pre-kindergarten all the way to postsecondary learning.
DOS backs International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
By Federal Newswire | Nov 26, 2023
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) recently issued a press release voicing their support for International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. This move forms part of their broader commitment to counteract violence against women worldwide through various initiatives and programs.
DOD confirms ongoing support of Israel amid release of hostages
By Federal Newswire | Nov 26, 2023
As Hamas continues to release hostages held in Gaza, U.S. officials called Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to discuss the process. This phone call is a part of the diplomatic efforts aimed at facilitating hostage release and restoring peace.
NAIC’s Fall 2023 International Fellows Program finishes up in New York City
By Federal Newswire | Nov 25, 2023
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) announced that its Fall 2023 International Fellows Program in New York City ended with a closing session at NAIC’s Capital Markets & Investment Analysis Office. Eight regulators from five countries participated in the program to update their knowledge and engage in dialogue on industry topics. The program was aimed at enhancing international regulatory understanding through practical experience and professional development.
Buttigieg: 'Every state has its own unique climate challenges'
By Federal Newswire | Nov 25, 2023
A program composed of national framework to track transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions has been finalized by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The implementation is a strategic initiative aiming to tackle climate change challenges across various states.
HHS says open enrollment is off to a strong start
By Federal Newswire | Nov 25, 2023
The 2024 marketplace open enrollment period has seen roughly 4.6 million people sign up for Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance since opening on Nov. 1. These new enrollees come from both states utilizing HealthCare.gov and those with their own state-based marketplaces.
Mayorkas: 'Our mission—to protect the homeland—requires around the clock sacrifice'
By Federal Newswire | Nov 25, 2023
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) expects the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to safely screen airport passengers as they make their way home from Thanksgiving festivities. This operation is a part of the ongoing commitment of DHS to maintain national security even during major holidays.
NSBA’s McCracken urges Senate and House leaders to support the Credit Card Competition Act
By Federal Newswire | Nov 25, 2023
In a Nov. 20 letter, Todd McCracken, president and CEO of the National Small Business Association (NSBA), urged congressional leaders to look away from the banking industry's narrative and get behind the Credit Card Competition Act of 2023 (H.R.3881/S.1838). The act aims to break up the Visa/Mastercard duopoly and bring more competition to the credit card network market.
Border Patrol Chief: 'San Diego Border Patrol agents seized over a quarter-million dollars worth of methamphetamine'
By Federal Newswire | Nov 25, 2023
Border Patrol agents in the San Diego sector made a substantial meth bust this week in an endeavor backed by federal and local law enforcement agencies. The bust was a result of Operation Apollo, a regional operation aimed at curbing illicit synthetic narcotics trafficking.
Border Patrol Chief: '$3,500,000 worth of fentanyl pills seized Thursday near Temecula, CA'
By Federal Newswire | Nov 25, 2023
Border Patrol agents in the San Diego sector made a substantial fentanyl bust this week, which is being spearheaded by a collaborative effort of local and federal law enforcement agencies to combat narcotics. This operation forms part of an ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking across the U.S.-Mexico border.
Border Patrol Chief: 'Over $48 million in seized property taken from the cartels '
By Federal Newswire | Nov 25, 2023
The United States Border Patrol has been busy the past two months seizing everything from drugs to real estate. This aggressive action comes amidst a nationwide battle against drug trafficking and other illicit activities.
The National Association of Realtors installs 2024 leadership at its annual conference
By Federal Newswire | Nov 24, 2023
The National Association of Realtors® announced that it installed new national and regional leadership for 2024 at its annual conference and expo, held in Anaheim, Calif., Nov. 14-16. The new team is charged with steering the 1.5 million-member association’s strategic direction and policymaking in legislation, professional standards and business services. This change comes amidst a dynamic real estate market that demands adaptive leadership.
Former U.S. Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Thomas Donohue recognized for putting veterans to work
By Federal Newswire | Nov 24, 2023
For Former U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue, hiring veterans and their spouses to address the labor shortage is just "good business." This attitude and his dedication to putting it into action has earned him the Hiring Our Heroes’ President’s Award for Lifetime Achievement. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions in providing job opportunities for military veterans and their families.
Texas Public Policy Foundation Jason Isaac: New science textbooks will provide to students a ’more balanced presentation of energy’
By Federal Newswire | Nov 22, 2023
The Texas State Board of Education's (SBOE) recent approval and rejection of new science textbooks have elicited a mixed reaction, with some critics arguing that the new materials do not adequately address climate change. This decision specifically pertains to educational materials for Texas students.
EDU secretary backs multilingualism initiative
By Federal Newswire | Nov 22, 2023
Being bilingual is a force multiplier that resonates beyond an individual and contributes to a vibrant economy, according to a speech given during an in-person and online event by U.S. Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona.
CBP Director of Field Operations: Laredo agents seize 'a total of $125,306 in unreported currency'
By Federal Newswire | Nov 22, 2023
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, during an outbound examination at the Gateway to the Americas Bridge in Laredo, seized over $125,000 in unreported currency hidden within a vehicle. The seizure took place on November 20, further highlighting the vigilant efforts of CBP officers in maintaining law and order.
CBP Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner: El Paso agents 'seized 354 pounds of methamphetamine'
By Federal Newswire | Nov 22, 2023
A truck concealing 354 pounds of methamphetamine was recently seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) officers at the Paso Del Norte international crossing in El Paso. The large drug bust occurred on November 18, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement officials in controlling the cross-border drug trade.
