News published on Federal Newswire in October 2024

News from October 2024


FTC settles with Marriott over major data breaches impacting millions

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced a settlement with Marriott International, Inc. and its subsidiary Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide LLC over data security failures that led to three significant breaches between 2014 and 2020. These breaches affected more than 344 million customers globally.


Authorities warn against scams amid hurricanes

As another major hurricane approaches, the Justice Department, in collaboration with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), has issued a warning to consumers about potential fraud, price gouging, and collusive schemes during natural disasters.


Target: BP aids millions with hypertension; new award criteria set for 2025

Hypertension, a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke, affects nearly half of U.S. adults, according to the 2024 American Heart Association Statistical Update. This condition incurs over $52 billion annually in healthcare costs. In response to this widespread issue, the Target: BP™ initiative was launched in 2015 by the American Heart Association and American Medical Association.


Tennessee sawmill fined $73K over illegal employment of minors

The U.S. Department of Labor has secured a federal consent decree requiring Plateau Sawmill LLC, a lumber producer in Clarkrange, Tennessee, to cease violations of federal child labor regulations. The company must also pay fines and return profits made from products manufactured during the violations.


Biden administration enforces rules on replacing U.S. drinking water's lead pipes

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced new regulations and funding aimed at addressing lead contamination in drinking water systems across the United States. The final rule, known as the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), mandates that all drinking water systems identify and replace lead pipes within a decade. It also requires stricter testing protocols and lower thresholds for action on lead exposure, aiming to enhance community awareness about the risks associated with lead-contaminated water.


EPA allocates $24M for Idaho's clean water under new federal regulations

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a final rule mandating that drinking water systems nationwide identify and replace lead pipes within ten years. This initiative is part of the administration's broader commitment to eliminate lead pipes across the country, ensuring access to clean drinking water for all communities.


North Carolina doctor settles kickback allegations with $625K payment

Dr. Eric Troyer, a physician from Landis, North Carolina, and his medical practice, Troyer Medical Inc. P.C., have agreed to pay $625,000 to settle allegations of involvement in laboratory kickback schemes. The settlement includes $429,254 to the United States for alleged False Claims Act violations and an additional $195,746 to the State of North Carolina.


Pentagon discusses hurricane response efforts ahead of Milton's landfall

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder has provided an update on the ongoing response to Hurricane Helene and preparations for Hurricane Milton. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has been actively monitoring the situation, receiving daily briefings on the progress and strategies in place.


U.S. congratulates Uganda on 62nd independence anniversary

On behalf of the United States, congratulations are extended to the people of Uganda on their 62nd anniversary of independence. The occasion is marked by a reflection on the partnership between the two nations and the progress made in addressing regional security challenges, improving public health outcomes, fostering economic investment, and investing in education for future generations of Ugandans.


EPA settles with Alabama Power over coal ash regulation violations

On September 26, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reached a settlement with Alabama Power Company regarding alleged violations of federal Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) regulations at the James M. Barry Electric Generating Plant in Bucks, Mobile County, Alabama. The agreement mandates that Alabama Power enhance its groundwater monitoring efforts and revise its Emergency Action Plan at Plant Barry. Additionally, the company will pay a civil penalty of $278,000.


EPA seeks public input on Umpqua River basin temperature cleanup plan

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public feedback on its proposed plan to address elevated water temperatures in the Umpqua River basin. This initiative is part of an effort to replace the 2006 Umpqua Basin temperature Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), with EPA collaborating with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.


Hispanic leaders at VA highlight diverse paths and shared dedication

Monica Rivera expressed gratitude for the introduction, while Katherine Martinez was acknowledged for her impactful remarks about the role of the VA in veterans' lives. Jaime Areizaga-Soto and other panel members were thanked for their contributions to the morning's discussion. Nathan Maenle and his team were recognized for organizing the event.


EPA announces new rule requiring nationwide replacement of lead pipes

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a significant initiative to address lead contamination in drinking water across the United States. A new rule requires all drinking water systems to identify and replace lead pipes within the next decade. This is part of a broader effort by President Biden to ensure that every community can access clean drinking water.


NFIB discusses rising uncertainty impacting small businesses

Holly Wade, Executive Director of the NFIB Research Center, recently spoke with Brad Smith on Yahoo! Finance about the current state of the small business economy and the rising uncertainty facing Main Street. The discussion focused on findings from NFIB's September SBET survey, highlighting issues such as inflation, financing costs, and tax pressures that are contributing to increased uncertainty among small business owners.


Federal agencies warn against scams amid hurricanes

As the nation prepares for another major hurricane, federal agencies are cautioning consumers about potential scams and price gouging in the aftermath of natural disasters. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Department of Justice (DOJ), and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) have issued warnings to alert individuals about fraudulent activities that often arise during such times.


Tennessee sawmill penalized $73K for child labor law violations

The U.S. Department of Labor has secured a federal consent decree against Plateau Sawmill LLC, a lumber producer in Clarkrange, Tennessee. The company is required to cease violations of federal child labor laws, pay penalties, and surrender profits earned during the period of violation.


Biden-Harris Administration announces major steps against lead in U.S. drinking water

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced new regulations and funding aimed at addressing lead contamination in drinking water systems across the United States. Under the new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), drinking water systems are required to identify and replace lead pipes within a decade. This initiative also mandates more rigorous testing of drinking water and lowers the threshold for action on lead exposure.


DOJ considers Google divestment as antitrust case returns to court

The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced its intention to request a judge to compel Google to divest parts of its business. This development is part of the ongoing antitrust case against Google, which will soon return to court for further deliberations on potential remedies.


HUD hosts roundtable on future housing policy strategies

On October 7 and 8, HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman led a roundtable titled “Next Generation of Housing Policy” in Washington. The event aimed to explore new strategies to enhance HUD's impact on housing supply and affordability. Leading scholars from various disciplines were invited to contribute their research and ideas.


Fernandez visits Serbia to bolster minerals security partnership

Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez is set to visit Serbia from October 9 to 11. The trip aims to strengthen cooperation through the Minerals Security Partnership Forum by developing diverse and sustainable critical minerals supply chains. Additionally, the visit will focus on promoting trade and economic opportunities with the United States.