U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Awards Approximately 3.6 Million Dollars to Whistleblower

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Awards Approximately $3.6 Million to Whistleblower | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission [SEC] press release dated: May 12, 2021) Washington D.C., May 12, 2021 - - The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced an award of approximately $3.6 million to a whistleblower whose information and assistance led to a successful SEC enforcement action. “The whistleblower brought valuable information to the attention of the SEC, causing it to open a new investigation into wrongdoing,” said Emily Pasquinelli, Acting Chief of the SEC’s Office of the Whistleblower. “The whistleblower further assisted the SEC by providing ongoing assistance as the Commission’s investigation progressed. This award shows the significant help a whistleblower can provide by sharing information of potential violations of the federal securities laws with the Commission.” The SEC has awarded appro...

U.S. Education Secretary Cardona Holds Virtual Roundtable with Members of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Community | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: May 12, 2021) This afternoon, U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona held a virtual roundtable with members of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community to discuss their experiences during the pandemic and ongoing challenges related to education in their communities. The participants included teachers, parents, and members of AAPI community organizations. They shared their personal experiences with the Secretary and provided feedback on ways the U.S. Department of Education (ED) can help address issues of racism, bullying, reopening schools for in-person learning, and supporting students' social, emotional, academic, and mental health needs. Secretary Cardona launched the discussion and listened as the participants shared their stories: ...

Federal Communications Commission Grants additional Rural Tribal Spectrum Licenses | site |



Mid-Band Spectrum Licenses Granted to Facilitate Providing Advanced Wireless Communications Like 5G to 40 Native Communities


(Information contained in Federal Communications Commission [FCC] press release dated: May 13, 2021) Washington, May 13, 2021 - - The FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau has granted an additional 40 spectrum licenses in the 2.5 GHz band to help connect rural Tribal communities. This valuable mid-band spectrum can be used for 5G and other advanced wireless services. “Wireless spectrum in the hands of the unserved and underserved is a powerful tool,” said FCC Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “This is especially true for Tribes, which should have the opportunity to offer their communities the broadband access that is so critical for participation in the digital age. I am committed to continuing our efforts to make tha...

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Statement on the Approval of an Additional Jones Act Waiver in Response to Eastern Seaboard Oil Supply Constraints | site |


(Information [published statement by a Department of Homeland Security {DHS} spokesperson] contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security press release dated: May 13, 2021) “Today, Secretary Mayorkas approved a temporary and targeted Jones Act waiver request for a second company. This decision was made after careful consideration and consultation with interagency partners across the federal government as part of the whole-of-government response President Biden directed to address the impacts of the Colonial Pipeline shut down.” Last night, Secretary Mayorkas, in the interest of national defense, approved an initial temporary and targeted waiver request in response to eastern seaboard oil supply constraints. The Departments of Transportation, Energy, and Defense were consulted in order to a...

U.S. Office of Personnel Management Announces Addition of Six Colleges and Universities to the Federal Academic Alliance, Bringing Total to 23 Colleges and Universities | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Office of Personnel Management press release dated: May 7, 2021)

Washington, D.C. - - Today, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) announced the addition of six new academic agreements with post-secondary education institutions as part of the Federal Academic Alliance, bringing the total to 23 colleges and universities. OPM created The Federal Academic Alliance in 2014 to, provide federal employees access to post-secondary education at reduced tuition rates, as one of the many ways the agency is assisting the federal government with addressing critical skills gaps in mission critical occupations such as human resources, information technology, acquisitions, auditor (financial), economist, and positions related to Science, Technology,...

Federal Trade Commission Returns Nearly $60 Million to Those Suffering from Opioid Addiction Who Were Allegedly Overcharged in Suboxone Film Scheme| site |



FTC says funds for these payments come from the FTC’s settlements with Reckitt Benckiser Group and Indivior, Inc. who took advantage of their unique market position to scare consumers away from generic Suboxone tablets


(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: May 10, 2021)

The Federal Trade Commission is sending 51,875 payments totaling more than $59 million to consumers who were victims of an allegedly deceptive scheme by Reckitt Benckiser Group and Indivior, Inc. to thwart lower-priced generic competition with the branded drug Suboxone. The average payment

Courtesy: Federal Trade Commission

amount is $1,139. The payments will be mailed...

Statement by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas on Charting New Course to Improve the Nation’s Cybersecurity and Protect Federal Government Networks | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: May 12, 2021) Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas released the following statement in support of President Biden’s Executive Order to improve our nation’s cybersecurity and protect federal government networks: “Recent cybersecurity incidents impacting SolarWinds, Microsoft, and Colonial Pipeline are a stark reminder that malicious cyber activity can significantly disrupt Americans’ daily lives and threaten our national security. Addressing these risks to our way of life is a shared responsibility that depends upon close collaboration between the public and private sectors. Today’s Executive Order will empower DHS and our interagency partners to modernize federal cyber...

U.S. Department of the Treasury Distributes $742 Million to States and Territories through Homeowner Assistance Fund | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of the Treasury press release dated: May 13, 2021) Washington - - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that it has distributed $742 million to 42 states and 3 territories through the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF). A part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s American Rescue Plan, HAF was designed to prevent mortgage delinquencies and defaults, foreclosures, loss of utilities or home energy services, and displacement of homeowners experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 public health crisis. “Today there are over 3 million homeowners behind on mortgage payments, and the pandemic has exacerbated the country’s already severe housing affordability crisis,” said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo. “Treasury is focused on ensuring the American economy re...

U.S. Department of Education Launches Outreach Campaign to Millions of K-12 Students and Federal Pell Grant Recipients Now Eligible for Monthly Discounts on Broadband Internet Service | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: May 12, 2021)

The U.S. Department of Education today launched a major outreach campaign to millions of students who are now eligible for a monthly discount on broadband internet service under a temporary program administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The campaign will inform millions of families with children participating in the free or reduced-price lunch or school breakfast program, and 6.5 million Pell Grant recipients that they are now eligible for the discount of up to $50 per month. Eligible households on qualifying Tribal lands can receive a discount of up to $75 per month. “The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified issues of internet access and ...

Union says New AFL-CIO Report Shows 275 U.S. Workers Killed Daily | site |



View Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect report here: aflcio.org/reports/death-job-toll-neglect-2021


(Information contained in AFL-CIO press release dated: May 4, 2021)

In 2019, 5,333 working people were killed on the job and an estimated 95,000 died from occupational diseases, according to the 30th edition of the report released today. That means every day, on average, 275 U.S. workers die from hazardous working conditions. And this was before the devastating COVID-19 pandemic that has been responsible for far too many worker infections and deaths in our country. “This year, we commemorate 50 years of OSHA and the lives saved by ensuring workers are protected on the job,” said AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler. “COVID-19 has been a stark reminder that workplace safety protections are absolutely critical, and we still have a long...

UPS announces Quarterly Dividend | site |




(Information contained in United Parcel Service of America, Inc. [UPS] press release dated: May 12, 2021)

Atlanta, GA - - UPS (NYSE: UPS) today announced its regular quarterly dividend of $1.02 per share on all outstanding Class A and Class B shares.

The dividend is payable June 9, 2021 to shareowners of record on May 24, 2021.

Commitment to the dividend is one of UPS’s core principles and a hallmark of the company’s financial strength. UPS has either maintained or increased its dividend each year since going public in 1999....

Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo's Meeting with the Board of Directors of the Opportunity Finance Network | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of the Treasury press release dated: May 12, 2021)

Washington - - Earlier today, Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo met with the Board of Directors of the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), led by President and CEO Lisa Mensah. Deputy Secretary Adeyemo shared President Biden and Secretary Yellen’s vision for an equitable and sustainable recovery, including tapping into the unrealized potential of small businesses across the country by supporting Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDI) through policies like the $3 billion CDFI Rapid Response Program. Deputy Secretary Adeyemo asked for the Board’s advice on how Treasury can better utilize its tools to serve underrepresented communities and how to ensure the...

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Issues Guidance on American Rescue Plan Funding for Medicaid Home and Community Based Services | site |



Guidance Helps States Access Additional Federal Funds for Critical Services Supporting Older Adults and Individuals with Disabilities


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release dated: May 13, 2021) The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is issuing guidance on how states can receive enhanced funding, provided through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP), to increase access to home and community based services (HCBS) for Medicaid beneficiaries. These benefits provide critical services to millions of older adults and individuals with disabilities, allowing them to receive health services in their homes and communities, rather than in nursing homes and other institutions. Today’s guidance is a key tool to assist s...

Statement from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on the Confirmation of Dr. Jewel Bronaugh as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: May 13, 2021) Washington, May 13, 2021 - - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack issued the following statement on the confirmation of Dr. Jewel Bronaugh as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture: “I am grateful for today's confirmation of Jewel Bronaugh as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dr. Bronaugh’s confirmation is historic, as she will serve as the first Black woman and woman of color to serve as Deputy Secretary. Dr. Bronaugh has a long, distinguished career as an educator and champion for farmers and rural communities. Most recently as the 16th Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services she worked to expand opportunities...

U.S. Department of Energy Welcomes New Biden-Harris Appointees | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Energy press release dated: May 10, 2021)

Washington, D.C. - - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced additional Biden-Harris Administration appointees that have joined the team to help build a more prosperous and equitable clean energy future for the American people. “During the first 100 days of this Administration, the DOE team has been working quickly and urgently to deliver on President Biden’s bold climate and clean energy goals—and these latest additions bring even more muscle to our efforts,” said Chief of Staff Tarak Shah. “We’re thrilled to have their talent and expertise in our ranks as we continue to advance innovative, equitable clean energy solutions that will create millions of good-paying jobs and launch every American worker and community into a greener future.” New appointee...

U.S. Internal Revenue Service grants Dyed Diesel Fuel Penalty Relief due to Disruptions of the Fuel Supply Chain | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release dated: May 13, 2021) Washington - - The Internal Revenue Service, in response to disruptions of the fuel supply chain, will not impose a penalty when dyed diesel fuel is sold for use or used on the highway in the states of Alabama, Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. This relief is retroactive to May 7, 2021, and will remain in effect through May 21, 2021. This penalty relief is available to any person that sells or uses dyed diesel fuel for highway use. In the case of the operator of the vehicle in which the dyed diesel fuel is used, the relief is available only if the operator or the person selling such fuel pays the tax of 24.4 cents per...

U.S. Department of Transportation Names Small Business Innovation Research Program Phase I Award Recipients | site |



Nineteen U.S. small businesses will receive approximately $2,850,000 to research and develop innovative solutions to our nation’s transportation challenges


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Transportation press release dated: May 13, 2021)

Washington - – The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced that 19 U.S. small businesses will receive approximately $2,850,000 in Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program Phase I awards stemming from the Fiscal Year 2021 Phase I Solicitation announced earlier this year. Each year, the SBIR Program awards contracts to small businesses across the country to spur research and commercialization of innovative transportation technologies. A full list of this year’s Phase I awardees is available here. From coast to coast, small busin...

Colonial Pipeline provides System Restart and Operational Update Information - - May 13, 2021 | site |



(Information contained in Colonial Pipeline press release dated: May 13, 2021)

Media Statement Update: Colonial Pipeline System Disruption
System Restart and Operational Update #2
Update: Thursday, May 13, 4:40 p.m. Colonial Pipeline has continued to make substantial progress in safely restarting our pipeline system. We can now report that we have restarted our entire pipeline system and that product delivery has commenced to all markets we serve. Following this restart, it will take several days for the product delivery supply chain to return to normal. Some markets served by Colonial Pipeline may experience, or continue to experience, intermittent service interruptions during this start-up period. Colonial will move as much gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel as is safely possible and will continue to do so until markets ...

Statement by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas on the Approval of a Jones Act Waiver in Response to Eastern Seaboard Oil Supply Constraints | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: May 12, 2021) Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas released the following statement on the announcement that the Department of Homeland Security will approve a temporary and targeted Jones Act Waiver in response to eastern seaboard oil supply constraints. “In the interest of national defense, I have approved a temporary and targeted waiver request to an individual company. This waiver will help provide for the transport of oil products between the Gulf Coast and East Coast ports to ease oil supply constraints as a result of the interruptions in the operations of the Colonial Pipeline. The decision to approve the waiver was made after careful consideration and consultation with interagency partne...

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Statement on the Swearing-In of Andrea Palm as Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release dated: May 12, 2021) Today, following a bipartisan confirmation by the U.S. Senate, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra formally swore in Andrea Palm as Deputy Secretary. Palm previously served as the Secretary-designee of Wisconsin’s Department of Health Services and in several leadership roles at HHS during the Obama-Biden Administration. “I want to congratulate Andrea Palm, a lifelong public servant, for her bipartisan confirmation to serve as Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “We are elated to have her join the HHS team. As a veteran of the Obama-Biden Administration and as the former top health official in Wisc...

U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Guzman Announces Latest Application Data Results for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund | site |


Relief for restaurants and bars


(Information contained in U.S. Small Business Administration [SBA] press release dated: May 12, 2021)

Washington - - Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration, today is announcing the latest application data results for the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), passed as part of the American Rescue Plan, and signed into law by President Joe Biden. The RRF has received more than 147,000 applications from women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged business owners, requesting a total of $29 billion in relief funds.

This announcement builds on an earlier announcement of the rapid deployment of RRF funding as the SBA continues to quickly distribute relief to approved applicants...

U.S. Social Security Administration Commissioner Saul Communicates to Congress about the State of Social Security Services | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Social Security Administration press release dated: April 26, 2021) Andrew Saul, Commissioner of Social Security, wrote to key members of Congress to raise awareness of the resources Social Security needs to recover from the ongoing pandemic and improve service. “Since becoming Commissioner, I have focused our actions and our resources on efforts to improve the service we provide to the millions of people who turn to us for help. I have been clear in my budget requests about what it takes to improve service and maintain the integrity of our programs: both additional frontline staff to help people now, and information technology (IT) investments to improve our future,” said Commissioner Saul. “2021 is a critical year to shape the agency for post-pandemic success, but our resource constraint...

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stands up Commission to Recommend new Under Secretary for Benefits | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [VA] press release dated: May 12, 2021)

Washington - - The Department of Veterans Affairs established a commission to identify candidates to lead and manage the Veterans Benefits Administration. The position is for the Under Secretary for Benefits, who oversees leadership and direction on non-medical Veterans benefits matters — which has an approximate operating budget of $6.2 billion, an average employment level of 24,700 — and a benefits budget of $135 billion for the delivery of services and benefits to Veterans and their beneficiaries. By law, the appointment is made without regard to political affiliation and solely on demonstrated ability in providing oversight and management of this budget and the ability to develop, defend, and administer a budget of this size a...

District Court issues Opinion in Public Citizen, et al. v FEC | site |


(Information contained in Federal Election Commission [FEC] press release dated: March 17, 2021)

Washington - - The United States District Court for the District of Columbia on Wednesday issued a Memorandum Opinion and Order in Public Citizen, et al. v. FEC (Case 14-00148), granting the Commission’s and Intervenor-Defendant’s Motion for Summary Judgment and denying Plaintiffs’ Motion for Summary Judgment. The lawsuit, filed on January 31, 2014, challenged the Commission’s dismissal of the Plaintiffs’ administrative complaint against Crossroads Grassroots Political Strategies (MUR 6396). The complaint had alleged that Crossroads GPS violated the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, as amended (the Act), by not registering and reporting as a political committee. The Commission lacked the required votes to open an investigation and the matter was dismissed. The Court h...

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg Announces $1.69 Billion for Amtrak in Response to COVID-19 | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Railroad Administration press release dated: April 27, 2021) Washington - - U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg today announced that the Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is making more than $1.69 billion available to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) to provide relief from the impacts of COVID-19 to the company’s business operations, workforce, and state funding partners. The funding is provided under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. “Help is here. The President’s American Rescue Plan is already delivering for workers and the traveling public,” said Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “This new assistance for Amtrak will get employees back to work and restore service on routes across the country, at a time ...

Federal Executive Boards Celebrate Public Service Recognition Week by Recognizing Employees Across the Country | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Office of Personnel Management [OPM] press release dated: May 4, 2021)

Each year Federal Executive Boards (FEBs) across the nation recognize federal employees who have made exceptional contributions in their community or the advancement of their agency’s mission. This year, OPM and the Partnership for Public Service are highlighting more than 300 awards winners from FY2020 and FY2021. To learn more about these recipients and their exemplary accomplishments, visit the FEB awards site. Award nominations are reviewed by leadership panels using a set criteria for the respective category: Leadership, Customer Service, Community Service, Diversity and Inclusion, Distinguished Lifetime Achievement, Distinguished Military/Military Support, Extraordinary Contributions in the Accomplishment of Agency M...

Register for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's 40th Annual Small Business Forum, Featuring Inclusive Conversations on Capital Formation from Startup to Small Cap| site |


(Information contained in U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission [SEC] press release dated: May 5, 2021)

Washington D.C., May 5, 2021 - - The Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation will host the Securities and Exchange Commission's 40th Annual Government-Business Forum on Small Business Capital Formation virtually from May 24-27, 2021. Each of the four sessions will feature panelists with in-depth knowledge of the issues facing small businesses across the country, spotlighting the following topics: Monday, May 24: Finding Your First Dollars Tuesday, May 25: Being a Savvy Investor Wednesday, May 26: Small and Emerging Funds Thursday, May 27: Small Cap Insights The Forum website will continue to be updated with details on the agenda, speakers, registr...

Biden-Harris Administration Outlines “America the Beautiful” Initiative | site |



Initial report details vision for 10-year locally led and voluntary nationwide effort to restore and conserve America’s lands, waters, and wildlife


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Commerce press release dated: May 6, 2021)

Today the Biden-Harris administration outlined a vision for how the United States can work collaboratively to conserve and restore the lands, waters, and wildlife that support and sustain the nation. The recommendations are contained in a report released today, outlining a locally led and voluntary nationwide conservation goal to conserve 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. The report calls for a decade-long effort to support locally led and voluntary conservation and restoration efforts across public, private, and Tribal lands and waters in order to create jobs and strengthen the economy’s foundation;...

Colonial Pipeline provides System Restart and Operational Update Information | site |


(Information contained in Colonial Pipeline press release dated: May 12, 2021)

Media Statement Update: Colonial Pipeline System Disruption
System Restart and Operational Update
Wednesday, May 12, 5:10 p.m. Colonial Pipeline initiated the restart of pipeline operations today at approximately 5 p.m. ET. Following this restart, it will take several days for the product delivery supply chain to return to normal. Some markets served by Colonial Pipeline may experience, or continue to experience, intermittent service interruptions during the start-up period. Colonial will move as much gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel as is safely possible and will continue to do so until markets return to normal. As we initiate our return to service, our primary focus remains safety. As part of this startup process, Colonial will conduct a comprehensive series of pipeline safety assessmen...

U.S. Treasury says nearly 1 Million additional Economic Impact Payments disbursed under the American Rescue Plan | site |


Treasury says total payments reach nearly 165 million


(Information contained in U.S. Department of the Treasury press release dated: May 12, 2021)

Washington - - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Bureau of the Fiscal Service announced they are disbursing nearly 1 million payments in the ninth batch of Economic Impact Payments from the American Rescue Plan.

Today’s announcement brings the total disbursed so far to approximately 165 million payments, with a total value of approximately $388 billion, since these payments began rolling out to Americans in batches as announced on March 12. The ninth batch of payments began processing on Friday, May 7, with an official payment date of May 12, with some people receiving direct payments in...

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awards $51 Million to Clean Up Lead Hazards in Public Housing | site |




Funding to identify and control potentially dangerous lead in thousands of homes with young children


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development press release dated: May 11, 2021) Washington - - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today awarded nearly $51.4 million to 25 Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) in 19 states to identify and reduce lead-based paint hazards in thousands of older public housing units. Provided through HUD’s Public Housing Capital Fund, these grants will be targeted to public housing units currently occupied by families with young children. See funding chart below. "In order to be healthy, it’s important to have a healthy home," said HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. "Protecting families with young children from lead and other hea...

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


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: May 11, 2021)

Washington, May 11, 2021 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold key staff positions in Washington, D.C.

Kate Waters was named Press Secretary in the Office of Communications. Recently, Waters served as the Communications Director on the re-election campaign of Senator Mark Warner. She previously served as the traveling Press Secretary for Kamala Harris for the People and as Digital Director and Deputy Press Secretary in the office of Senator Kamala Harris. Additionally, she has held roles with Abby Finkenauer for Congress, Hillary for America, and in the office of Senator Tom Harkin. Waters is a graduate of James Madison University.

Eddie Shimkus was named Legislative Advisor in the Office of...

The U.S. Small Business Administration Funds 16,000 Restaurant Revitalization Fund Awards | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Small Business Administration [SBA] press release dated: May 10, 2021) Washington - - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration will begin delivering economic relief from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, established by the American Rescue Plan and signed into law by President Joe Biden, to more than 16,000 approved applicants. This first round of funding represents over $2 billion of relief awarded since last Monday’s successful program launch. Restaurants and other food and beverage businesses across the nation will begin to see funds in bank accounts as early as Tuesday, May 11. “Just one week after launching the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund, I am pleased to officially report that the SBA has begun to fund applications and that more than 16,000 restaurants and other food and beverage business o...

Statement from U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona on the Confirmation of Cindy Marten as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: May 11, 2021) Today, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona issued the following statement on the confirmation of Cindy Marten as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education: "I am grateful for today's confirmation of Cindy Marten as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education. As superintendent of the second largest school district in California and one of the longest serving urban school leaders in America, Cindy remained committed to San Diego when the pandemic hit, finding ways to provide technology to thousands of students and provide more than 20 million free meals to students in need. Cindy also partnered with the local public university to stand up testing at all San Diego Unified School District campuse...

FedEx Awards More Than $250,000 to Winners Of the Ninth Annual FedEx Small Business Grant Contest | site |



Contest Garners More Than A Million Votes


(Information contained in FedEx press release dated: May 10, 2021)

Memphis, TN, May 10, 2021 — FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) announced today that Equine Amnio Solutions – a Texas based veterinary pharmaceutical company, is the grand prize winner of its ninth annual FedEx Small Business Grant Contest. Equine Amnio Solutions (EAS) will receive a $50,000 grant, plus $7,500 in FedEx Office® print and business services to use in the company’s mission to provide innovative products to maximize the health and performance of horses across all breeds and athletic disciplines.

“This has been an extraordinarily tough year on small business owners, which is why it’s so critical that FedEx continues to champion and support these ...

U.S. Department of State announces Appointment of Ambassador Richard Norland as U.S. Special Envoy for Libya | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of State press release dated: May 10, 2021)

U.S. State Department Press Statement
By: Ned Price, Department Spokesperson
May 10, 2021

The Department of State is pleased to announce that U.S. Ambassador to Libya Richard Norland will now also serve in the capacity of U.S. Special Envoy for Libya in addition to Chief of Mission for Libya. In his role as U.S. Special Envoy, Ambassador Norland will lead U.S. diplomatic efforts to promote international support for a Libyan-led, inclusive, and negotiated political solution to the conflict, facilitated through the UN. Ambassador Norland, a Career Minister in the Foreign Service and a three-time ambassador, has served as Chief of Mission at the Libya External Office in Tunis since August 2019. The addition of the U.S. Sp...

U.S. Department of Agriculture Awards $15 Million in Grants to Expand Wood Products, Wood Energy Markets and Community Forests | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture press release dated: May 7, 2021) Washington, May 7, 2021 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today awarded more than $15 million to fund grant proposals to develop and expand the use of wood products, strengthen emerging wood energy markets and protect community forests. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the announcement in Colorado today while visiting prescribed fire and wildfire recovery areas adjacent to the Roosevelt National Forest Northern Colorado Front Range landscape. The grant funding, delivered through USDA Forest Service programs, will support 60 projects that cover a diverse range of activities from the development of affordable housing to expanding markets for mass timber, biochar, wood energy and other emerging wood products....

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Creates New Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships and Additional Efforts to Comprehensively Combat Domestic Violent Extremism | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Washington - - Building on the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to combating all forms of terrorism and targeted violence, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced today that DHS has established a new Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) to improve the Department’s ability to combat terrorism and targeted violence, consistent with privacy protections, civil rights and civil liberties, and other applicable laws. “CP3 will help build local prevention frameworks to provide communities with the tools they need to combat terrorism and targeted violence,” said Secretary Mayorkas. “Individuals who may be radicalizing, or...

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Awards $40 Million in American Rescue Plan Funding to Support Emergency Home Visiting Assistance for Families Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Today, in recognition of National Women’s Health Week, and thanks to the American Rescue Plan, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), awarded approximately $40 million in emergency home visiting funds to states, territories, and the District of Columbia to support children and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program supports the delivery of coordinated and comprehensive, high quality, voluntary, evidence-based home visiting services to children and families living in communities at risk for...

U.S. Department of Education Makes Available $36 Billion in American Rescue Plan Funds to Support Students and Institutions | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: May 11, 2021) The U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced more than $36 billion in emergency grants today provided under the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act for postsecondary education. These grants will help over 5,000 institutions of higher education (institutions), including HBCUs, TCCUs, and HSIs, provide emergency financial aid to millions of students and ensure learning continues during the COVID-19 national emergency. Emergency funds provided by ARP more than double the emergency relief aid available to students and institutions already authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) and the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) relief legislation. This funding is provided by the ARP�...

Boeing Expands Capacity for 737-800BCF to Meet Strong Customer Demand | site |



Costa Rican MRO provider COOPESA to open two 737-800BCF conversion lines in 2022, marking first lines in Latin America


Market-leading 737-800BCF now has more than 180 orders and commitments


(Information contained in The Boeing Company press release dated: May 5, 2021) Seattle, May 5, 2021 - - As express and e-commerce markets continue to drive strong demand for production and converted freighters, Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced a new partnership with a Costa Rica-based maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) provider to create additional conversion capacity for the 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter. Boeing will open two 737-800BCF conversion lines with Cooperativa Autogestionaria de Servicios Aeroindustriales (COOPESA) in Alajuela, Costa Rica. The first of the new conversion lines is expected to open in early 2022, with the...

U.S. Internal Revenue Service offers Overview of Tax Provisions in American Rescue Plan | site |



IRS says retroactive tax benefits help many people now preparing 2020 returns


(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Washington - - The Internal Revenue Service today provided an overview of some of the key tax provisions in the American Rescue Plan Act. Several provisions affect the 2020 tax return people are filling out this filing season, including one exempting up to $10,200 in unemployment compensation from tax and another benefiting many people who purchased subsidized health coverage through either federal or state Health Insurance Marketplaces. In addition, the law also includes a third round of Economic Impact Payments, now going out to eligible Americans, that are generally equal to $1,400 per person for most people, as well as several other key changes for tax-year 2021. The...

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs releases Report detailing Efforts to address COVID-19 Pandemic | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [VA] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Washington - - The Department of Veterans Affairs published a second installment report identifying the department’s strategic response from July 1, 2020 to Jan. 1, 2021, to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The results are a continuation of VA’s pledge to share best practices and lessons learned with other government agencies and the private health care system while the country continues to fight COVID-19. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Response Report Annex A concludes that overall, VA has aligned responsibilities, communicated with stakeholders and employed an operational concept that produced an effective response in support of Veterans and communities around the country. “We created this document so medical professionals can learn from our eff...

Statement by U.S. Secretary of Labor Walsh on the April Jobs Report | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Labor press release dated: May 7, 2021) Washington, DC - - U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh issued the following statement on the April 2021 Employment Situation Report: “Today, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the American economy added 266,000 jobs in the month of April, and the unemployment rate was 6.1 percent, up marginally from 6.0 percent in March. Labor force participation is at its highest point since last August and the number of people expressing hesitancy about returning to work due to the coronavirus is at its lowest point in the pandemic. “However, the numbers also show we have a steep climb ahead of us. We have yet to recover roughly eight million jobs that existed prior to the pandemic. Racial inequities in the unemployment picture persist, as the Black unemployment rate increased slightly to 9.7 perc...

FDiTech Announces New Deputy Director of Office of Innovation | site |


(Information contained in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation [FDIC] press release dated: May 10, 2021) Washington - - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today announced the appointment of Zunera Mazhar as Deputy Director of the agency’s Office of Innovation. Ms. Mazhar will guide the agency’s work to promote the adoption of innovative technologies within the FDIC and across the financial services sector. “I am extremely excited that Zunera will be joining our team,” said FDIC Chief Innovation Officer Sultan Meghji. “She is a proven leader and offers a wealth of management, communications, technology and transformation experience to help build the banking ecosystem of the future.” Ms. Mazhar added, “It is an honor and privilege to join the FDIC at this transformative moment in the agency’s long and storied history. I look forward to joining a talented ...

Federal Communications Commission seeks Comment on Potential Impact of Global Semiconductor Shortage| site |


(Information contained in Federal Communications Commission [FCC] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Washington, May 11, 2021 - - The Federal Communications Commission today began seeking comment on the impact the continuing global shortage of semiconductors may have on the U.S. communications sector and on FCC initiatives. These semiconductor supply chain constraints have been acknowledged by the Administration and by Congress, and the U.S. government is taking steps to address these challenges. The FCC is particularly focused on the impact this shortage could have on the communications industry, agency initiatives, and the nation’s continued advancement in next-generation technologies that are key to our national and economic security. “At the FCC we are pursuing a proactive strategy to help build a more secure, resilient, and next-generat...

U.S. Education Secretary Cardona Holds Virtual Roundtable with Educators to Discuss the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: May 7, 2021)

This afternoon, U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona held a virtual roundtable to discuss the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program with educators who have student loans and are participating in the program. The participants included teachers from elementary and secondary schools and an occupational therapist. They shared their personal experiences with the Secretary and provided feedback on ways the Department can make it easier for borrowers to understand the PSLF program, complete their payments, communicate clearly with their loan servicers, and eventually receive loan forgiveness based on their service. Secretary Cardona launched the discussion and listened as the educators shared their stories: "Student loan...

U.S. Department of Transportation Details Ongoing Efforts to Help Mitigate Potential Impacts of the Colonial Pipeline Disruption | site |



(Information contained in U.S. Department of Transportation [USDOT] press release dated: May 11, 2021)

Tuesday, May 11, 2021 - - The Biden-Harris Administration is continually assessing the impact of the ongoing Colonial Pipeline incident on fuel supplies for the East Coast and is monitoring reported shortages in parts of the Southeast. This ongoing effort includes evaluating resources the federal government can mobilize to mitigate potential impacts.

As part of this process, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has started the work needed to enable consideration of a temporary and targeted waiver of the Jones Act.

Today, USDOT’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) initiated a survey of Jones Act-qualified vessels to begin the process of evaluating what assets are available in the...

U.S. Internal Revenue Service issues Guidance on Taxability of Dependent Care Assistance Programs for 2021, 2022 | site |


(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release dated: May 10, 2021) Washington - - The Internal Revenue Service today issued guidance on the taxability of dependent care assistance programs for 2021 and 2022, clarifying that amounts attributable to carryovers or an extended period for incurring claims generally are not taxable. The guidance also illustrates the interaction of this standard with the one-year increase in the exclusion for employer-provided dependent care benefits from $5,000 to $10,500 for the 2021 taxable year under the American Rescue Plan Act. Because of the pandemic, many people were unable to use the money they set aside in their dependent care assistance programs in 2020 and 2021. Generally, under these plans, an employer allows its employees to set aside a certain amount of pre-tax wages...

U.S. Department of the Treasury Launches Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to Deliver $350 Billion | site |


Aid to state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments will help bring back jobs, address pandemic’s economic fallout, and lay the foundation for a strong, equitable recovery


(Information contained in U.S. Department of the Treasury press release dated: May 10, 2021)

Washington - - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the launch of the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, established by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, to provide $350 billion in emergency funding for state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments. Treasury also released details on the ways funds can be used to respond to acute pandemic-response needs, fill revenue shortfalls among state and local governments, and support the communities and populations hardest-hit by the COVID-19 crisis. Eligible state,...