News published on Federal Newswire in October 2024

News from October 2024


Austin discusses security with Israeli defense minister after drone attack

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III held a conversation with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant on October 13. The discussion was prompted by a recent drone attack from Lebanese Hizballah, which resulted in the deaths of Israeli Defense Forces soldiers. Secretary Austin expressed his condolences and reiterated the United States' strong commitment to Israel's security.


US congratulates Spain on National Day highlighting strong bilateral ties

The United States has extended its congratulations to Spain on the occasion of its National Day, known as the Fiesta Nacional de España. The message highlights the strong relationship between the two nations, emphasizing shared values such as democracy, human rights, and global security.


Austin calls for diplomacy amid concerns over Israel-Lebanon tensions

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III held a conversation with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant on October 12, expressing concern over reports of Israeli forces firing on UN peacekeeping positions in Lebanon and the reported death of two Lebanese soldiers. According to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Austin emphasized the importance of safeguarding UNIFIL forces and Lebanese Armed Forces.


Ashley Ranslow calls on Governor Hochul to veto costly healthcare bills

New York State Director Ashley Ranslow has voiced concerns about the increasing cost of healthcare in New York.


Weekend Interview: Empowering Patients, How Helder Toste Advocates for Change in Healthcare

This transcript has been edited for clarity and length. Helder Toste is the government affairs liaison at the Libre Initiative. He is a first generation American.


OPINION: The Backlash Against Big Wind & Big Solar Is Raging Across Rural America

Nearly every week, local communities across the U.S. are rejecting or restricting solar and wind projects.


Weekend Interview: Jessica Melugin Discusses Concerns Over the Kids Online Safety Act

Jessica Melugin is the Director of the Center for Technology and Innovation at the Competitive Enterprise Institute.


Moolenaar and Krishnamoorthi seek answers on reported Salt Typhoon cyber breach

Chairman John Moolenaar and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party have reached out to major telecom companies regarding a reported cyber breach. The two lawmakers sent a letter to the CEOs of Verizon, AT&T, and Lumen Technologies, companies reportedly affected by what is being called the Salt Typhoon breach.


NFIB provides guidance on overtime pay rules for auto mechanics

Understanding overtime pay eligibility for auto mechanics can be complex yet essential for automotive businesses.


California home health agency settles over false claims act allegations

Allstar Health Providers Inc., a home health agency based in California, and its owner, Maria Chua, have reached a settlement with the United States to pay $399,990. This resolves allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by receiving and retaining more than one Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan before December 31, 2020.


U.S. soldier sentenced for aiding ISIS in plot against American troops

Cole Bridges, also known as Cole Gonzales, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison followed by a decade of supervised release. The 24-year-old from Stow, Ohio, was convicted for attempting to provide material support to ISIS and plotting to murder U.S. military service members. Bridges pleaded guilty on June 14, 2023.


Small business job openings hit three-year low according to NFIB report

The latest jobs report from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) indicates a decline in job openings among small businesses.


Justice Department sues Virginia over alleged violation of federal voter registration law

The Justice Department has initiated legal action against the State of Virginia, its State Board of Elections, and the Virginia Commissioner of Elections. The lawsuit challenges a state program that aims to remove voters from election rolls too close to the upcoming November 5 general election, allegedly violating the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA).


DoD publishes final rule on Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program

The Department of Defense (DoD) has released the final rule for the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Program, which is now available for public inspection on federalregister.gov. The rule is expected to be published in the Federal Register on October 15.


US imposes new sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector

The United States has announced sanctions in response to Iran's recent actions against Israel on October 1. The measures aim to disrupt the revenue flow that Iran uses for its nuclear program, missile development, and support of terrorist activities.


US imposes sanctions on entities trading Iranian petroleum

The United States has announced sanctions on six entities involved in the Iranian petroleum trade, following Iran's recent missile attack on Israel. The Department of State is targeting these entities to curb revenue that supports terrorism and domestic oppression by the Iranian regime. Additionally, six vessels have been identified as blocked property.


US concludes final session as voting member at UN Human Rights Council

During the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council, the United States collaborated with UN Member States to address significant human rights issues and uphold universal values. This marked the final regular session for the U.S. as a voting member for this term, providing opportunities to demonstrate dedication to human rights in multilateral forums.


CBP intercepts major marijuana shipments at George Bush Intercontinental Airport

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) intercepted two marijuana smuggling attempts last week, confiscating a total of 293 kilograms. Both shipments were intended for the United Kingdom.


CBP aids Floridians post-Hurricane Milton with specialized operations

Now that Hurricane Milton has passed through Florida, causing significant destruction, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is actively assisting the affected residents. CBP's efforts include deploying aircraft, floodwater crews, and urban search and rescue teams.


US extends greetings on Curaçao National Day, emphasizes collaboration

On behalf of the United States, best regards are extended to the people of Curaçao in celebration of Curaçao Day. The statement highlights the strong relationship between the two nations, emphasizing shared democratic values and cultural connections.