U.S. State Department Spokesperson says PRC Military Pressure Against Taiwan Threatens Regional Peace and Stability

U.S. State Department says PRC Military Pressure Against Taiwan Threatens Regional Peace and Stability | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of State press release dated: January 23, 2021)

January 23, 2021
Press Statement
Ned Price, Spokesperson, U.S. Department of State The United States notes with concern the pattern of ongoing PRC attempts to intimidate its neighbors, including Taiwan. We urge Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan and instead engage in meaningful dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected representatives. We will stand with friends and allies to advance our shared prosperity, security, and values in the Indo-Pacific region — and that includes deepening our ties with democratic Taiwan. The United States will continue to support a peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues, consistent with the wishes and best interests of the people on Taiwan. The United S...

U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Three Deputy Under Secretaries in the Areas of Nutrition, Rural Development and Marketing and Regulatory Programs | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: January 21, 2021)

Washington, Jan. 21, 2021 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced three senior appointments today.

USDA announced that nutrition policy expert Stacy Dean has been named Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services (FNCS). Prior to joining USDA, Dean served as Vice President for Food Assistance Policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities in Washington, D.C. She directed the Center’s food assistance team, which publishes frequent reports on how federal nutrition programs affect families and communities and develops policies to improve them. She joined the Center in 1997 and has deep experience understanding the delivery of health...

Biden Administration Announces Foreclosure Moratorium and Mortgage Forbearance Deadline Extension That Will Bring Relief to Rural Residents | site |



USDA Extends Evictions and Foreclosure Moratorium to March 31, 2021 and Provides Additional Guidance for Servicing Loans Impacted by COVID-19


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: January 20, 2021) Washington, Jan. 20, 2021 — In one of his first acts in office, President Joe Biden requested federal agencies to extend eviction and foreclosure moratoriums for millions of Americans. In response, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced an extension of eviction and foreclosure moratoriums on USDA Single Family Housing Direct and Guaranteed loans (SFHDLP and SFHGLP) through March 31, 2021. The actions announced today will bring relief to residents in rural America who have housing loans through USDA. USDA recognizes that the COVID-19 pande...

U.S. Department of State addresses Protests in Russia | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of State press release dated: January 23, 2021)

January 23, 2021
Press statement
Ned Price, Spokesperson, U.S. Department of State

The United States strongly condemns the use of harsh tactics against protesters and journalists this weekend in cities throughout Russia. Prior to today’s events, the Russian government sought to suppress the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression by harassing protest organizers, threatening social media platforms, and pre-emptively arresting potential participants. This follows years of tightening restrictions on and repressive actions against civil society, independent media, and the political opposition. Continued efforts to suppress Russians’ rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, the arrest of opposition figure Aleksey Navalny, and the crackdown on protests...

Statement from Acting Secretary Pekoske on the 59th Presidential Inauguration | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: January 23, 2021) The Acting Secretary released the following statement commending the men and women of the U.S. Secret Service for their efforts to secure the 59th Presidential Inauguration: “This year, the Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Secret Service executed another successful National Special Security Event (NSSE) — the 59th Presidential Inauguration. Facing an unprecedented security environment, the USSS leveraged its strong partnerships with FBI, FEMA, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), U.S. Capitol Police, U.S. Park Police and dozens of other federal, state, and local law enforcement and public safety offices, and ensured seamless coordination across every level of government to implement its operational security plan. Of note, the Department of Defense provided tho...

Allison Herren Lee Named Acting Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission [SEC] press release dated: January 21, 2021)

Washington D.C., Jan. 21, 2021 - - The Securities and Exchange Commission announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has designated Allison Herren Lee as Acting Chair of the agency. “It’s an honor to continue my service on the Commission in this new role,” Acting Chair Lee said. “I have tremendous respect for my colleagues on the Commission and the exceptional staff across the agency, and look forward to working closely with them. Together we will continue the agency’s work of protecting investors and ensuring market integrity.” “During my time as Commissioner, I have focused on climate and sustainability, and those issues will continue to be a priority for me,” Lee added. Acting Chair Lee was sworn in as Commissio...

AFL-CIO President on "Fixing the Systems that Have Failed Working Families" | site |



(Information contained in AFL-CIO press release dated: January 20, 2021)


Statement from AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka on the Biden administration’s Day 1 actions to reshape and reform America’s broken immigration system:

We welcome President Biden’s actions to reverse the Trump administration’s cruel, racist and divisive immigration policies and introduce constructive, inclusive alternatives. These essential steps will help to heal our country, empower workers, and build a stronger democracy and economy. Our Workers First Agenda is about all of us, with no exclusions, because the real recovery working families need, expect and deserve is impossible without equity. America’s unions are committed to rebuilding the safety net and the ladders of opportunity for everyone who lives and works here, and we cannot do that without reforming o...

American Federation of Teachers' Weingarten on President Biden’s Executive Order on Safely Reopening Schools | site |



(Information contained in American Federation of Teachers [AFT] press release dated: January 21, 2021)

Washington - - American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement as President Joe Biden prepared to sign an executive order to formulate a national strategy to safely reopen schools in the first 100 days of his administration: “Finally, we have a president who is committed to doing what educators, parents and students have yearned for since the first weeks of the pandemic—a real national plan to crush COVID that follows the science and secures the resources to make in-school learning safe. “All too often in this crisis, educators’ concerns were dismissed or derided to downplay or minimize the virus. We are already seeing the opposite with the Biden administration: They re...

American Medical Association applauds Biden Administration on first-day Executive Actions | site |


(Information contained in American Medical Association [AMA] press release dated January 20, 2021)

Chicago — The American Medical Association (AMA) today applauded the Biden Administration’s first-day actions that tackle the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change, re-engage with the World Health Organization (WHO), and advance racial equity, among other policies. The executive orders, memoranda, and other actions are first steps on issues critical to improving the health of the nation.

Addressing the COVID-19 pandemic

• Launching a “100 Days Masking Challenge”
• Re-engaging with the WHO
• Coordinating a unified federal response to COVID-19

“Defeating COVID-19 requires bold, coordinated federal leadership and strong adherence to the public health steps we know stop the spread of this virus—wearing masks, practicing physical distancing,...

American Hospital Association Statement on President Biden's Executive Orders | site |



(Information contained in American Hospital Association [AHA] press release dated: January 21, 2021)

AHA Statement on President Biden’s Executive Orders


Rick Pollack
President and CEO
American Hospital Association

January 21, 2021

America’s hospitals and health systems commend President Biden and his Administration for acting swiftly to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Ending this virus and returning to normal life are among the highest priorities we share with the Administration. In particular, we are pleased that the Administration will use all the tools at their disposal, including increased use of the Defense Production Act (DPA), to accelerate the availability of the supplies and equipment needed to fight COVID-19. This includes PPE for our heroic front-line caregivers ...

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Welcomes Members of the Biden-Harris Leadership Team | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA] press release dated: January 21, 2021) Washington (January 21, 2021) - - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced key members of the agency’s incoming leadership team who will advance the Biden-Harris administration’s agenda to tackle the climate crisis, advance environmental justice and create clean energy jobs. “We are proud to join the EPA team of dedicated career professionals,” said Dan Utech, EPA’s incoming Chief of Staff. “EPA will be at the heart of President Biden’s commitment to protect public health and the environment while building a clean energy future that creates good paying jobs. We will be guided by science as we work together to achieve these goals on behalf of all Americans.” EPA’s leadership team comes with a broad range of ex...

Acting HUD Secretary announces extension of Eviction and Foreclosure Moratoriums | site |



Agency actions extend eviction and foreclosure moratoriums on federally-backed single family mortgages through March 31, 2021 to provide urgent economic relief to homeowners impacted by COVID-19


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development [HUD] press released dated: January 21, 2021) Acting U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Matthew E. Ammon today announced that the Department has implemented President Biden's requests to immediately extend eviction and foreclosure moratoriums on federally-backed single family mortgages through March 31, 2021, to provide meaningful support to homeowners struggling financially as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic: “President Biden asked the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to consider an immediate extension of eviction and foreclosure morator...

Bringing Atoms to a Standstill: NIST Miniaturizes Laser Cooling | site |




(Information contained in National Institute of Standards and Technology [NIST] press release dated: January 21, 2021)

It’s cool to be small. Scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have miniaturized the optical components required to cool atoms down to a few thousandths of a degree Celsius above absolute zero, the first step in employing them on microchips to drive a new generation of super-accurate atomic clocks, enable navigation without GPS, and simulate quantum systems. Cooling atoms is equivalent to slowing them down, which makes them a lot easier to study. At room temperature, atoms whiz through the air at nearly the speed of sound, some 343 meters per second. The rapid, randomly moving atoms have only fleeting interactions with other particles, and their motion can make it difficult to measure transitions between ato...

Census Bureau Update on 2020 Census | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Census Bureau press release dated: January 21, 2021)

Jan. 21, 2021 - - The U.S. Census Bureau is implementing the President’s Executive Order “Ensuring a Lawful and Accurate Enumeration and Apportionment Pursuant to the Decennial Census,” released January 20, 2021. The 2020 Census data products including the P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Summary Data File will not include information on citizenship or immigration status. The Census Redistricting and Voting Rights Data Office will reengage the Department of Justice’s Voting Section to confirm that Citizen Voting Age Population (CVAP) data produced from the American Community Survey (ACS) continue to meet its statistical needs. The Census Bureau has released this product annually since 2011. All work on the immigration status of the population of the United States regarding the 2020 Census was suspended on January 12, 2021....

Jessica Rosenworcel Designated the Acting Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission by President Biden | site |



(Information contained in Federal Communications Commission [FCC] press release dated: January 21, 2021)

Washington, January 21, 2021 - - Today, President Joseph R. Biden designated FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel as Acting Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission.


Statement of Jessica Rosenworcel on being Designated the Acting Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission by President Biden:

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“I am honored to be designated as the Acting Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission by President Biden. I thank the President for the opportunity to lead an agency with such a vital mission and talented staff. It is a privilege to serve the American people and work on their behalf to expand the reach of communications opportunity in the digital age.”

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Biden Administration authorizes extension of Federal Housing Administration Single Family Foreclosure and Eviction Moratorium | site |



One of the first Administration actions provides meaningful support to homeowners struggling financially as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development [HUD] press release dated: January 21, 2021)

Washington - - Yesterday, the Biden Administration requested the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and other Federal Agencies to extend its foreclosure and eviction moratorium for single family mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or guaranteed by the Office of Native American Programs’ Section 184 and 184A loan guarantee programs through March 31, 2021. Today, HUD executed one of the first Administration actions to provide meaningful support to the nation’s individuals and families who are...

Ensuring Our Safety and Security through a 90-Day Suspension of the Direct Access Program for U.S.-Affiliated Iraqis | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of State press release dated: January 22, 2021)


January 22, 2021
Press statement
Daniel B. Smith, Acting Secretary of State

Ensuring Our Safety and Security through a 90-Day Suspension of the Direct Access Program for U.S.-Affiliated Iraqis

Effective January 22, 2021, the United States is suspending the Direct Access Program for U.S.-Affiliated Iraqis for 90 days. As the result of a joint investigation by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Justice is prosecuting individuals for stealing U.S. government records from the Department of State’s Worldwide Refugee Admissions Processing System to take advantage...

U.S. Department of State information On the Reinstatement of State Department Diversity Training | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of State press release dated: January 22, 2021)


January 22, 2021
Press statement
Ned Price, Department Spokesperson

On the Reinstatement of State Department Diversity Training

Restoring and strengthening American diplomatic leadership globally requires leveraging the full talent and richness of American diversity. To achieve a diplomatic corps truly representative of America, more progress is needed to recruit and retain a more diverse Department workforce and embrace a culture of inclusion and accountability, free of bias. In furtherance of these goals, the Department of State has announced the full resumption of employee training and professional development activities in support of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Day One White H...

U.S. Department of Energy Announces New Senior Leaders | site |



Tarak Shah to Serve as Chief of Staff, David G. Huizenga to Serve as Acting Secretary



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Energy press release dated: January 21, 2021) Washington, D.C. - - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced new Biden-Harris Administration senior leadership appointees. These new leaders will direct policy at DOE, coordinate across the Administration, and enact President Joe Biden’s vision for bold action on the climate crisis and on safeguarding the Americans most affected by it. These experienced professionals reflect President Biden’s pledge to equip his Administration with a team that represents America’s diversity. Tarak Shah will serve as Chief of Staff, becoming the first person of color, first Indian-American, and first openly LGBTQ person to serve in that position at DOE. “These talented and diverse publi...

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to provide COVID-19 testing and vaccinations to caregivers of Veterans in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: January 22, 2021)

Washington - - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care facilities will begin offering COVID-19 testing and vaccinations to designated family caregivers of Veterans participating in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC). Each facility will determine its own start date based on site-specific resources, needs and vaccine availability. “Caregivers play a critical role in caring for some of our most vulnerable Veterans,” said VA Acting Under Secretary for Health Richard A. Stone, M.D. “One of the most important things we can do for caregivers is to help them take care of themselves. The current pandemic has am...

Biden Administration Expands P-EBT to Benefit Millions of Low-Income and Food Insecure Children During Pandemic | site |


USDA Says SNAP Benefits Are Inadequate for Most Participants and Begins Process to Extend Emergency Allotments to States and Update Thrifty Food Plan Formula


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: January 22, 2021) Washington, Jan. 22, 2021 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced several efforts today to expand nutrition assistance to hard-hit families across the country due to the coronavirus pandemic. In support of President Biden’s call to action on hunger and with authorities provided by Congress, USDA is increasing the Pandemic-EBT benefit by approximately 15%, providing more money for low-income families and millions of children missing meals due to school closures. Separately, in response to this national emergency, USDA is looking at ways to increase...

U.S. Department of the Treasury FACT SHEET - - - Treasury to Work to Ensure Families Get Access to Economic Impact Payments | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of the Treasury press release dated: January 22, 2021) In response to President Biden’s COVID-19 Economic Relief Executive Order launching an all-of-government effort to provide economic relief, the U.S. Department of the Treasury will work to stand up an effort to help households who have not yet been able to access their stimulus payments get much-needed relief. As many as 8 million households may be eligible for but have not yet received payments from the CARES Act signed in March; many of these households could be legally entitled to as much as $1,200 per adult. As the Treasury Department works to secure a full $2,000 in direct payments for adults as part of the American Rescue Plan, it will take steps designed to reach as many of these missed households as possible – providi...

U.S. Internal Revenue Service urges Taxpayers to gather Tax Documents now for smooth Filing later | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release dated: January 22, 2021)

Washington - - The Internal Revenue Service is reminding taxpayers that organizing tax records is an important first step for getting ready to prepare and file their 2020 tax return. Taxpayers should keep all necessary records, such as W-2s, 1099s, receipts, canceled checks and other documents that support an item of income, or a deduction or credit, appearing on their tax return. Taxpayers should develop a system that keeps all their important information together, which could include a software program for electronic records or a file cabinet for paper documents in labeled folders. Having records readily at hand makes preparing a tax return easier. To avoid refund delays, taxpayers should be sure to gather all year-end inco...

Excerpt of U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: January 22, 2021 | site |



(Excerpt of information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: January 22, 2021)

• The FDA is reissuing the Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for decontamination systems that are authorized to decontaminate compatible N95 respirators for use by healthcare personnel (HCP) to prevent exposure to pathogenic biological airborne particulates when there is an insufficient supply of new respirators resulting from the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Among other things, the reissued EUAs for certain decontamination systems are now only authorized to decontaminate each compatible N95 respirator a maximum of four or fewer times. Based on the FDA’s review of real-world use of these systems and evidence from adverse events and scientific literature, including studies regarding N95 respirator failures from simula

...

Federal Reserve Board announces that the Public Comment period for the application by First Citizens BancShares, Inc. to acquire CIT Group, Inc. has been extended through February 22, 2021 | site |


(Information contained in Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System press release dated: January 22, 2021)

The Federal Reserve Board on Friday announced that the public comment period has been extended through February 22, 2021, for the application by First Citizens BancShares, Inc. of Raleigh, North Carolina, to acquire CIT Group, Inc. of New York, New York.

The comment period is being extended to provide additional time for interested parties to comment on the application in light of the ongoing challenges from the coronavirus.


Attachment...

National Institutes of Health article says Full-dose Blood Thinners decreased need for Life Support and improved Outcome in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients | site |



Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release dated: January 22 2021) In large clinical trial conducted worldwide, full dose anti-coagulation (blood thinner) treatments given to moderately ill patients hospitalized for COVID-19 reduced the requirement of vital organ support—such as the need for ventilation. A trend in possible reduction of mortality was also observed and is being further studied. With large numbers of COVID-19 patients requiring hospitalization, these outcomes could also help reduce the overload on intensive care units around the world. Early in the pandemic, physicians around the world observed increased rates of blood clots and inflammation among COVID-19 patients which affected multiple organs and led to complications such as lung failure, h...

Federal Trade Commission Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter Designated Acting Chair of the Agency | site |



(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 21, 2021) President Joseph R. Biden designated Rebecca Kelly Slaughter as Acting Chair of the Federal Trade Commission. Slaughter has served as a Commissioner since May 2018. “I am deeply honored and grateful to lead an agency that is critical to helping the U.S. economy get back on its feet and function more fairly for all Americans,” Slaughter said. “I want to express my sincere appreciation for the excellent leadership of Chairman Simons during a time of unprecedented challenges.” As a Commissioner, Slaughter has been an advocate for greater resources for the FTC and promoted equity and inclusion efforts. She has championed aggressive use of the FTC’s authorities. She has also been particularly outspoken about combatting systemic racism, g...

U.S. Department of Education Announces Biden-Harris Appointees | site |




(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release: January 21, 2021)

Washington - - Today, the U.S. Department of Education announced senior political appointees who will lead various parts of the agency. These diverse and accomplished individuals will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the agency and work to quickly advance key education priorities for the Biden-Harris administration.

Sheila Nix, Chief of Staff Sheila Nix comes to the Department of Education after leading Tusk Philanthropies. She has nearly three decades of leadership in political, domestic policy, and innovative nonprofit operations. She recently worked on the Biden for President campaign as a senior advisor to then Sen. Kamala Harris. During the second Obama/Biden term, Nix served as the Chief of Staff to Dr. Jill Biden and as a Deputy Assistant to Presi...

Federal Reserve Board approves reappointment of Reserve Bank Presidents and First Vice Presidents | site |



(Information contained in Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System press release: January 21, 2021)

The Federal Reserve Board on Thursday announced the approval of the reappointment of 12 Federal Reserve Bank presidents and 11 first vice presidents, as previously made by their respective boards of directors.1 Each individual has been approved to serve a new five-year term beginning March 1, 2021. Under section 4 of the Federal Reserve Act, all Reserve Bank presidents and first vice presidents serve five-year terms that expire at the end of February in years ending in 1 or 6. Presidents and first vice presidents who take office in intervening years are initially appointed for the remainder of the current term. Class B and C Reserve Bank directors who are not affiliated with a supervised entity are eligible to vote on ...

Acting Secretary of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Directs a Review of Immigration Enforcement Practices and Policies | site |


(Information included in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: January 20, 2021)

Today, Acting Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Pekoske signed a memorandum directing DHS components, including Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, to review and reset enforcement policies and set interim policies for civil enforcement while the Department develops its final priorities. For 100 days, starting January 22, 2021, DHS will pause removals for certain noncitizens ordered deported to ensure we have a fair and effective immigration enforcement system focused on protecting national security, border security, and public safety. The pause will allow DHS to ensure that its resources are dedicated to respon...

U.S. Department of Transportation Announces Biden Appointees Ready to Work on Behalf of the American People | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Transportation press release dated: January 21, 2021) Washington - - Today, the Biden Administration announced key members of its U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) leadership, many of whom are already at work in the opening days of the new Administration. This diverse and experienced team will bring unique perspective and vast expertise to the job. This group will help USDOT civil servants already hard at work on behalf of the American people advance President Biden’s agenda to build our country back better. With the safety of the traveling public and America’s workers at the center of its mission, the team will work toward economic recovery, racial equity, and combating climate change. “This experienced team looks forward to getting right to work on behalf of the American ...

Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Remarks at the World Health Organization Executive Board Meeting | site |




(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release dated: January 21, 2021)

Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Remarks at the World Health Organization Executive Board Meeting

“Director-General Dr. Tedros, distinguished representatives, friends and colleagues: It is an honor for me to be here, representing the United States of America, on behalf of the newly inaugurated Biden-Harris administration, and as the Chief Medical Adviser to President Biden. I also am here to represent the scientists, public health officials and frontline healthcare workers, and community health workers who have worked so heroically this past year to fight COVID-19, developing medical countermeasures at truly phenomenal speed, adapting policy responses as we learn more about the virus, and courageously...

Acting Veterans Affairs Leadership Announcement | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: January 20, 2021)

Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released the names of current senior career executives who will perform the duties of senior department leadership in acting capacities until additional Biden administration appointees are confirmed and sworn in.

The list includes the following:

Secretary (Acting) – Dat P. Tran, principal deputy assistant secretary for Office of Enterprise Integration.

Deputy Secretary (Acting) – Dr. Carolyn M. Clancy, assistant undersecretary for Health, Discovery, Education and Affiliate Networks.

Under Secretary for Health (Acting) – Dr. Richard Stone, principal deputy undersecretary for Health.

Under Secretary for Benefits (Acting) – Thomas Murphy, director for Northeast District,...

Statement from CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, on Extending the Eviction Moratorium | site |



(Information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] press release dated: January 20, 2021)

As a protective public health measure, I will extend the current order temporarily halting residential evictions until at least March 31, 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a historic threat to our nation’s health. It has also triggered a housing affordability crisis that disproportionately affects some communities.

Despite extensive mitigation efforts, COVID-19 continues to spread in America at a concerning pace. We must act to get cases down and keep people in their homes and out of congregate settings — like shelters — where COVID-19 can take an even stronger foothold....

At the Request of President Biden, Acting Secretary of Education Will Extend Pause on Federal Student Loan Payments | site |




(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: January 21, 2021)

At the request of President Biden, the Acting Secretary of Education will extend the pause on federal student loan payments and collections and keep the interest rate at 0%. Too many Americans are struggling to pay for basic necessities and to provide for their families. They should not be forced to choose between paying their student loans and putting food on the table....

National Institutes of Health Officials Highlight COVID-19 Vaccine Facts, Unknowns for Healthcare Providers | site |



(Information included in a National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) news release dated: January 18, 2021)

Healthcare providers must be able to explain the latest data supporting the safety and efficacy of vaccines for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) so they can strongly encourage vaccination when appropriate while acknowledging that uncertainty and unknowns remain. This message comes from a new commentary co-authored by Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, and other leading NIAID scientists in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine. The commentary provides an overview of the seven COVID-19 vaccines furthest along in development in the United States. For each vaccine candidate, the authors des...

2021 Tax Filing Season begins Feb. 12; IRS outlines Steps to Speed Refunds during Pandemic | site |




(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release dated: January 15, 2021)

Washington - - The Internal Revenue Service announced that the nation's tax season will start on Friday, February 12, 2021, when the tax agency will begin accepting and processing 2020 tax year returns. The February 12 start date for individual tax return filers allows the IRS time to do additional programming and testing of IRS systems following the December 27 tax law changes that provided a second round of Economic Impact Payments and other benefits. This programming work is critical to ensuring IRS systems run smoothly. If filing season were opened without the correct programming in place, then there could be a delay in issuing refunds to taxpayers. These changes ensure that eligible people will receive any remaining stimulus mone...

U.S. Department of the Interior Announces Members of Biden-Harris Leadership Team | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of the Interior [DOI] press release dated: January 20, 2021)

Washington, D.C — The Department of the Interior today announced key members of agency leadership who will advance the Biden-Harris administration’s agenda to build back better and address the four intersecting challenges of our time: COVID-19, economic recovery, racial equity, and climate change. “With today’s announcement, President Biden is delivering on his commitment to build teams that exude talent and experience, and look like America,” said Jennifer Van der Heide, incoming Chief of Staff. “We look forward to working with the dedicated civil servants at the Department to fulfill Interior’s missions, advance President Biden’s vision to honor our nation-to-nation relationship with Tribes and uphold the trust and treaty responsibilities to them, ad...

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Approves Rule on the Role of Supervisory Guidance | site |



(Information contained in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation [FDIC] press release dated: January 19, 2021) Washington - - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) approved a final rule outlining and confirming the agency’s use of supervisory guidance for regulated institutions. The final rule codifies the interagency statement on the role of supervisory guidance, as amended, issued in September 2018 to clarify the differences between regulations and guidance, and states that the Statement is binding on the agency. Unlike a law or regulation, supervisory guidance does not have the force and effect of law, and the FDIC does not take enforcement actions based on supervisory guidance. Rather, supervisory guidance outlines the FDIC’s supervisory expectations or priorities and articulates the FDIC’s general views regarding appropriate practices f...

Biden Administration Enlists GSA Team with a Mix of Obama Veterans and Public/Private Sector Expertise | site |



(Information contained in U.S. General Services Administration press release dated: January 20, 2021)

Washington, D.C. - - The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is set to begin work on the four key priorities of the Biden Administration to include COVID relief, economic recovery, racial equity, and climate. The appointees selected are a combination of seasoned Obama-Biden administration officials and others with public/private sector experience specifically in climate and technology.

Among these appointees are:

- Katy Kale, former Assistant to the President for Management and Administration under President Obama and GSA Chief of Staff has been appointed the Deputy Administrator and will serve as the Acting Administrator.

- Sonny Hashmi, former Chief Information Officer of GSA and...

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announces Biden Administration Appointees | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: January 20, 2021)

Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released the names of several key Biden administration political appointees joining the department.

Paula Molloy, PhD, assistant secretary, Human Resources and Administration/ Operations, Security and Preparedness: Paula Molloy rejoins VA after serving as chief administrative officer for the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), an independent federal agency since 2017. Molloy served as VA assistant deputy undersecretary for Health for Workforce Services, leading the strategic integration of initiatives to support human capital systems for more than 320,000 Veteran Health Administration employees and over 120,000 health professions trainees.

Kayla M. Williams,...

Federal Trade Commission Publishes Annual Performance Report | site |


(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 19, 2021)

The Federal Trade Commission published its Fiscal Year 2020 Performance Report as required under the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act of 2010. The report documents the progress made by the Commission in achieving the mission and performance goals established in the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Performance Plan. Also, as required by the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act during a transition in administration, the Commission will submit its Fiscal 2021-2022 Performance Plan along with its Fiscal Year 2022 budget request in support of the President’s FY 2022 budget for the federal government later this year.

The Commission vote to submit the Performance Report to Congress was 5-0....

U.S. Department of the Treasury Announces the Appointment of Members of Senior Staff | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of the Treasury press release dated: January 20, 2021)

Washington - - Today, the United States Department of the Treasury announced new members of staff who will serve in senior roles. As the country faces a deep economic downturn triggered by a global pandemic, these crisis-tested and experienced leaders are prepared to address the urgent economic and financial policy decisions facing the nation. These choices reflect the Administration’s commitment to building a team of foremost experts with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences.

Biographies of the appointees are listed below in alphabetical order:


Marti Adams, Executive Secretary

Marti Adams is returning to the Treasury Department from the global advisory firm Brunswick Group where she counseled clients on reputational...

Chairman Pai Statement upon departing the Federal Communications Commission | site |



(Information contained in Federal Communications Commission [FCC] statement release dated: January 20, 2021) Washington, January 20, 2021 - - Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai today concluded his four years as Chairman, eight years as a Commissioner, and twelve years as an employee of the agency. Chairman Pai issued the following statement as he prepared to formally submit his resignation: “Serving the American people as Chairman of the FCC has been the greatest honor of my professional life. Over the past four years, we have delivered results for the American people, from narrowing the digital divide to advancing American leadership in 5G, from protecting consumers and national security to keeping Americans connected during the pandemic, from modernizing our media rules to making the agency more transparent and nimble. It has been a privilege to...

U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: January 20, 2021)

Washington, Jan. 20, 2021 - - The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.

Katharine Ferguson was named Chief of Staff in the Office of the Secretary. Most recently, Ferguson served as Associate Director of the Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group. Before joining the Aspen Institute, Ferguson served in the Obama Administration as Chief of Staff for the White House Domestic Policy Council and as Chief of Staff for Rural Development at USDA. Ferguson also worked on the Senate Agriculture Committee and as staff to several U.S. Senators. Other work experience has focused on topics ranging from racial equity, community economic development, conservation, food and agriculture,...

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Statement on the Suspension of New Enrollments in the Migrant Protection Protocols Program | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: January 20, 2021) Today, DHS is announcing the suspension of new enrollments in the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) program. Effective tomorrow, January 21, the Department will cease adding individuals into the program. However, current COVID-19 non-essential travel restrictions, both at the border and in the region, remain in place at this time. All current MPP participants should remain where they are, pending further official information from U.S. government officials. Please note: Individuals outside of the United States will not be eligible for legal status under the bill President Biden sent to Congress today. The legalization provisions in that bill apply only to people already living in the United States....

New Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Administrator Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, begins Post | site |



(Information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] press release media statement dated: January 20, 2021)

Today, Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, officially begins her post as the 19th director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the ninth administrator of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

U.S. President Joe Biden selected Dr. Walensky to lead the agency in December. Dr. Walensky comes to CDC from Massachusetts General Hospital, where she served as Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases from 2017-2020; and Harvard Medical School, where she served as Professor of ...

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Simons Announces his Resignation | site |



(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 19, 2021) Federal Trade Commission Chairman Joseph J. Simons announced his resignation from the Commission today, effective January 29, 2021. “It’s been a great honor to lead this incredible organization filled with so many talented people working on behalf of American consumers,” Simons said. “As technology and our economy continue to evolve through the digital age, the FTC’s staff work tirelessly so that consumers continue to benefit from a fair and competitive marketplace. It’s been a privilege to be part of that effort.” Simons was sworn in as Chairman of the FTC on May 1, 2018, having previously served as Director of the agency’s Bureau of Competition between 2001 and 2003 and in other senior positions in the Bureau during the 1980s. As Chairman, he has focused on vigo...

Commerce Department Issues Interim Rule to Secure the ICTS Supply Chain | site |




(Information contained in U.S. Department of Commerce press release dated: January 14, 2021)

Pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13873, “Securing the Information and Communications Technology and Services (ICTS) Supply Chain,” today U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross issued an interim final rule to address the national security, economic security, and public health and safety concerns related to ICTS Transactions. The rule will ensure the resilience of, and trust in, our Nation’s ICTS supply chain, and, for the purposes of this rule, identifies six foreign governments or foreign non-government persons as foreign adversaries: the People’s Republic of China (China), the Russian Federation (Russia), the Islamic Republic of Iran (Iran), the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), the Republic of Cuba (Cuba),...

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs says VA plays Crucial Role in COVID-19 Treatment Study | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: January 19, 2021)

Washington - - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) researchers and Veteran volunteers from the Atlanta and San Antonio VA medical centers were part of a recently published study that yielded crucial insights into COVID-19 treatment.

The study published Dec. 11, 2020, by the New England Journal of Medicine, showed the drugs baricitinib and remdesivir combined were far better at improving and reducing recovery time of COVID-19 patients than treatment with remdesivir alone. “Safe and effective vaccines for COVID-19 are being rolled out in VA and other health care settings, but finding treatments remains crucial,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “VA researchers and all the Veterans who volunteer for studies are contributing to steady p...