Statement from U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: July 11, 2022
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona issued the below statement following a White House event commemorating the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act:
“The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is an important step toward addressing years of inaction and indifference in response to heartbreaking gun violence in our schools and communities.
At the U.S. Department of Education, we will work diligently to invest more than $2 billion provided under this law to improve mental health supports for students and expand access to school-based health services. We also will assist states and districts in using these resources to invest in evidence-based practices that support safe schools.
And thanks to months of conversations already underway between my team and our collea...
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Statement from U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act
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SBA Administrator Guzman Visits Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania to Highlight the Impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
SBA Administrator Guzman Visits Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania to Highlight the Impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
| site |
SBA says Northeast Trip Touts Continued and Steady Economic Growth Following Record Jobs and Small Business Boom Thanks to the American Rescue Plan
Information contained in U.S. Small Business Administration press release dated: June 7, 2022
Washington, DC - - Recently, Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice for America's 32.5 million small businesses in President Biden's Cabinet, met with business owners across the Northeast, highlighting equity, resources, and support for America's small businesses. "Small businesses are the giants of our economy. It was a pleasure to meet with business owners throughout the Northeast and hear firsthand about their successes and the challenges they have overcome, a... -
Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough statement on PACT Act
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough statement on PACT Act | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) press release dated: May 27, 2022
VA Secretary Denis McDonough statement on PACT Act
Washington - - President Biden has stated we have a sacred obligation to support Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors. As part of his first State of the Union address, he identified supporting Veterans as a key pillar of his Unity Agenda and an issue that can unite the country. The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act makes good on that promise.
In my recent press conference, I spoke in detail about the Department of Veterans Affairs’ strong support of the PACT Act because the bipartisan bill will help us advance one of the department’s top priorities: getting more Veterans into... -
Agencies issue joint Proposal to strengthen and modernize Community Reinvestment Act Regulations
Agencies issue joint Proposal to strengthen and modernize Community Reinvestment Act Regulations | site |
Information contained in Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System press release dated: May 5, 2022
Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency Federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly issued a proposal to strengthen and modernize regulations implementing the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) to better achieve the purposes of the law. CRA is a landmark law enacted 45 years ago to encourage banks to help meet the credit needs of their local communities, including low- and moderate-income (LMI) neighborhoods, in a safe and sound manner. Building on feedback from stakeholders and research, the agencies invite public comment on their joint proposal, which has the following key elements:... -
U.S. Education Dept says New Guidance Reaffirms Importance of Full Implementation of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
U.S. Education Dept says New Guidance Reaffirms Importance of Full Implementation of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
U.S. Department of Education says Regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic or the mode of instruction, children with disabilities are entitled to receive a free, appropriate, public education
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: August 24, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) sent a letter to its state and local partners reiterating its commitment to ensuring children with disabilities and their families have successful early intervention and educational experiences in the 2021-2022 school year. This letter outlines a series of question and answers (Q&As) as children and students return to in-person learning. The Q&As focus on topics to help ens... -
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo Applauds Senate Bipartisan Passage of the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo Applauds Senate Bipartisan Passage of the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Commerce press release dated: June 8, 2021) Following the 68-32 bipartisan passage of the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act of 2021 in the Senate, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo released the following statement: “Over the past three months, I have heard from dozens of stakeholders at every level of the semiconductor supply chain and customer base that we need smart, strategic investments to shore up our domestic supply chain and bolster U.S. leadership — and we need them now. “Today, the Senate took a critical bipartisan step forward to make the investments we need to continue America’s legacy as a global leader in innovation. I applaud the Senators from both parties who came together to get this done. This funding isn’t just about addressing the c... -
DHS Statement on the Approval of an Additional Jones Act Waiver in Response to Eastern Seaboard Oil Supply Constraints
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... -
Statement by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas on the Approval of a Jones Act Waiver in Response to Eastern Seaboard Oil Supply Constraints
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... -
HUD to enforce Fair Housing Act to prohibit Discrimination on the basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to enforce Fair Housing Act to prohibit Discrimination on the basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity | site |
HUD directive begins implementation of the policy set forth in Biden executive order to prevent and combat sexual orientation and gender identity-based discrimination
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development press release dated: February 11, 2021)
Washington - - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today announced that it will administer and enforce the Fair Housing Act to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) issued a memorandum stating that HUD interprets the Fair Housing Act to bar discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity and directing HUD offices... -
Statement by Katharine Ferguson, USDA Chief of Staff, on the Emergency Relief for Farmers of Color Act
Statement by Katharine Ferguson, USDA Chief of Staff, on the Emergency Relief for Farmers of Color Act | site | (Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: February 9, 2021) Washington, Feb. 9, 2021 — “We are pleased to see the introduction of the Emergency Relief for Farmers of Color Act yesterday in the Senate, a bill that will bring much-needed economic assistance during the pandemic and begin to advance equity for farmers of color. The bill is the culmination of hard work and collaboration among members of the Senate and House and new leadership at USDA who share a common purpose to end inequity in our food and agricultural systems. It’s a bill crafted to address the immediate need for debt relief among those who have been marginalized and are hurting while also advancing long-term issues such as Heirs’ Property, tackling the root causes of discrimination via an Equity Commission, and investing in building back a new ge... -
Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act Reintroduced in the House and Senate
Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act Reintroduced in the House and Senate | site |
(Information contained in National Right to Life Committee [NRLC] press release dated: January 29, 2021)
Washington - - On Thursday, Senator Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) reintroduced the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act in the U.S. Senate. Today, Representative Steve Scalise (R-La.), the House Whip, and Representative Ann Wagner (R-Mo.) reintroduced the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“The Born-Alive Abortions Survivors Protection Act is reasonable legislation that would protect a baby born alive following an abortion,” said Carol Tobias, president of the National Right to Life Committee. “We thank Senator Sasse, Whip Scalise, and Representative Wagner for reintroducing this critical life-saving legislation.” The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act requires that, when a baby is born alive following an abortion, health care... -
HHS Amends PREP Act Declaration to Increase Workforce Authorized to Administer COVID-19 Vaccines
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Amends PREP Act Declaration to Increase Workforce Authorized to Administer COVID-19 Vaccines | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release dated: January 28, 2021) The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today issued a fifth amendment to the Declaration under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) to add additional categories of qualified persons authorized to prescribe, dispense, and administer COVID-19 vaccines authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “To respond to the nationwide public health emergency caused by COVID-19, the Biden Administration is broadening use of the PREP Act to expand the vaccination workforce quickly with additional qualified healthcare professionals,” said HHS Acting Secretary Norris Cochran. “As vaccine supply is made more widely available over the coming months, havi... -
Federal Trade Commission Brings First-Ever Cases Under the BOTS Act
Federal Trade Commission Brings First-Ever Cases Under the BOTS Act | site |
FTC says ticket brokers will face partially suspended judgment of more than $31 million in civil penalties
(Information extracted from Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 22, 2021) The Federal Trade Commission is taking legal action against three ticket brokers based in New York who allegedly used automated software to illegally buy up tens of thousands of tickets for popular concerts and sporting events, then subsequently made millions of dollars reselling the tickets to fans at higher prices. The three ticket brokers will be subject to a judgment of more than $31 million in civil penalties for violating the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act, under a proposed settlement reached with the FTC. Due to their inability to pay, the judgment will be partially suspended, requiring them to pay $3.7 million. This is the first case br... -
IRS sends Taxpayer First Act Report to Congress
U.S. Internal Revenue Service sends Taxpayer First Act Report to Congress | site |
Recommendations aimed at providing greater ease, convenience to taxpayers and the tax community
(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release: January 11, 2021)
Washington - - The IRS today sent the Taxpayer First Act Report to Congress, a comprehensive set of recommendations that will reimagine the taxpayer experience, enhance employee training and restructure the organization to increase collaboration and innovation. The IRS will continue conversations with key stakeholders and congressional committees to secure funding and begin to work toward implementation of these recommendations over the next several years. "The way we interact with taxpayers and the tax community, the way that we train our employees and the way we structure our organizational structure are important foundations for our future success,... -
U.S. Department of Labor announces Final Rule to Clarify Independent Contractor Status under the Fair Labor Standards Act
U.S. Department of Labor announces Final Rule to Clarify Independent Contractor Status under the Fair Labor Standards Act | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Labor press release: January 6, 2021)
Washington, DC - - The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a final rule clarifying the standard for employee versus independent contractor status under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
“This rule brings long-needed clarity for American workers and employers,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia. “Sharpening the test to determine who is an independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act makes it easier to identify employees covered by the Act, while recognizing and respecting the entrepreneurial spirit of workers who choose to pursue the freedom associated with being an independent contractor.”
“Streamlining and clarifying the test to identify independent contractors will reduce worker...
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Statement from U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: July 11, 2022 U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona issued the below statement following a White House event commemorating the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act: “The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is an important step toward addressing years of inaction and indifference in response to heartbreaking gun violence in our schools and communities. At the U.S. Department of Education, we will work diligently to invest more than $2 billion provided under this law to improve mental health supports for students and expand access to school-based health services. We also will assist states and districts in using these resources to invest in evidence-based practices that support safe schools. And thanks to months of conversations already underway between my team and our collea...07-15-2022, 05:44 AM -
SBA Administrator Guzman Visits Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania to Highlight the Impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
| site |
SBA says Northeast Trip Touts Continued and Steady Economic Growth Following Record Jobs and Small Business Boom Thanks to the American Rescue Plan
Information contained in U.S. Small Business Administration press release dated: June 7, 2022
Washington, DC - - Recently, Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice for America's 32.5 million small businesses in President Biden's Cabinet, met with business owners across the Northeast, highlighting equity, resources, and support for America's small businesses. "Small businesses are the giants of our economy. It was a pleasure to meet with business owners throughout the Northeast and hear firsthand about their successes and the challenges they have overcome, a...06-13-2022, 08:42 AM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough statement on PACT Act | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) press release dated: May 27, 2022
VA Secretary Denis McDonough statement on PACT Act
Washington - - President Biden has stated we have a sacred obligation to support Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors. As part of his first State of the Union address, he identified supporting Veterans as a key pillar of his Unity Agenda and an issue that can unite the country. The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act makes good on that promise.
In my recent press conference, I spoke in detail about the Department of Veterans Affairs’ strong support of the PACT Act because the bipartisan bill will help us advance one of the department’s top priorities: getting more Veterans into...06-04-2022, 11:24 AM -
Agencies issue joint Proposal to strengthen and modernize Community Reinvestment Act Regulations | site |
Information contained in Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System press release dated: May 5, 2022
Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency Federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly issued a proposal to strengthen and modernize regulations implementing the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) to better achieve the purposes of the law. CRA is a landmark law enacted 45 years ago to encourage banks to help meet the credit needs of their local communities, including low- and moderate-income (LMI) neighborhoods, in a safe and sound manner. Building on feedback from stakeholders and research, the agencies invite public comment on their joint proposal, which has the following key elements:...05-11-2022, 03:19 PM -
U.S. Education Dept says New Guidance Reaffirms Importance of Full Implementation of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
U.S. Department of Education says Regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic or the mode of instruction, children with disabilities are entitled to receive a free, appropriate, public education
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: August 24, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) sent a letter to its state and local partners reiterating its commitment to ensuring children with disabilities and their families have successful early intervention and educational experiences in the 2021-2022 school year. This letter outlines a series of question and answers (Q&As) as children and students return to in-person learning. The Q&As focus on topics to help ens...08-25-2021, 01:00 PM -
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo Applauds Senate Bipartisan Passage of the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Commerce press release dated: June 8, 2021) Following the 68-32 bipartisan passage of the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act of 2021 in the Senate, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo released the following statement: “Over the past three months, I have heard from dozens of stakeholders at every level of the semiconductor supply chain and customer base that we need smart, strategic investments to shore up our domestic supply chain and bolster U.S. leadership — and we need them now. “Today, the Senate took a critical bipartisan step forward to make the investments we need to continue America’s legacy as a global leader in innovation. I applaud the Senators from both parties who came together to get this done. This funding isn’t just about addressing the c...06-11-2021, 09:50 PM -
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...05-14-2021, 05:09 AM -
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...05-13-2021, 05:58 AM -
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to enforce Fair Housing Act to prohibit Discrimination on the basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity | site |
HUD directive begins implementation of the policy set forth in Biden executive order to prevent and combat sexual orientation and gender identity-based discrimination
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development press release dated: February 11, 2021)
Washington - - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today announced that it will administer and enforce the Fair Housing Act to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) issued a memorandum stating that HUD interprets the Fair Housing Act to bar discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity and directing HUD offices...02-11-2021, 02:19 PM -
Statement by Katharine Ferguson, USDA Chief of Staff, on the Emergency Relief for Farmers of Color Act | site | (Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: February 9, 2021) Washington, Feb. 9, 2021 — “We are pleased to see the introduction of the Emergency Relief for Farmers of Color Act yesterday in the Senate, a bill that will bring much-needed economic assistance during the pandemic and begin to advance equity for farmers of color. The bill is the culmination of hard work and collaboration among members of the Senate and House and new leadership at USDA who share a common purpose to end inequity in our food and agricultural systems. It’s a bill crafted to address the immediate need for debt relief among those who have been marginalized and are hurting while also advancing long-term issues such as Heirs’ Property, tackling the root causes of discrimination via an Equity Commission, and investing in building back a new ge...02-10-2021, 02:38 PM
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Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act Reintroduced in the House and Senate | site |
(Information contained in National Right to Life Committee [NRLC] press release dated: January 29, 2021)
Washington - - On Thursday, Senator Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) reintroduced the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act in the U.S. Senate. Today, Representative Steve Scalise (R-La.), the House Whip, and Representative Ann Wagner (R-Mo.) reintroduced the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“The Born-Alive Abortions Survivors Protection Act is reasonable legislation that would protect a baby born alive following an abortion,” said Carol Tobias, president of the National Right to Life Committee. “We thank Senator Sasse, Whip Scalise, and Representative Wagner for reintroducing this critical life-saving legislation.” The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act requires that, when a baby is born alive following an abortion, health care...01-30-2021, 12:22 AM -
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Amends PREP Act Declaration to Increase Workforce Authorized to Administer COVID-19 Vaccines | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release dated: January 28, 2021) The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today issued a fifth amendment to the Declaration under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) to add additional categories of qualified persons authorized to prescribe, dispense, and administer COVID-19 vaccines authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “To respond to the nationwide public health emergency caused by COVID-19, the Biden Administration is broadening use of the PREP Act to expand the vaccination workforce quickly with additional qualified healthcare professionals,” said HHS Acting Secretary Norris Cochran. “As vaccine supply is made more widely available over the coming months, havi...01-28-2021, 09:54 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Brings First-Ever Cases Under the BOTS Act | site |
FTC says ticket brokers will face partially suspended judgment of more than $31 million in civil penalties
(Information extracted from Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 22, 2021) The Federal Trade Commission is taking legal action against three ticket brokers based in New York who allegedly used automated software to illegally buy up tens of thousands of tickets for popular concerts and sporting events, then subsequently made millions of dollars reselling the tickets to fans at higher prices. The three ticket brokers will be subject to a judgment of more than $31 million in civil penalties for violating the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act, under a proposed settlement reached with the FTC. Due to their inability to pay, the judgment will be partially suspended, requiring them to pay $3.7 million. This is the first case br...01-25-2021, 01:47 AM -
U.S. Internal Revenue Service sends Taxpayer First Act Report to Congress | site |
Recommendations aimed at providing greater ease, convenience to taxpayers and the tax community
(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release: January 11, 2021)
Washington - - The IRS today sent the Taxpayer First Act Report to Congress, a comprehensive set of recommendations that will reimagine the taxpayer experience, enhance employee training and restructure the organization to increase collaboration and innovation. The IRS will continue conversations with key stakeholders and congressional committees to secure funding and begin to work toward implementation of these recommendations over the next several years. "The way we interact with taxpayers and the tax community, the way that we train our employees and the way we structure our organizational structure are important foundations for our future success,...01-11-2021, 03:26 PM -
U.S. Department of Labor announces Final Rule to Clarify Independent Contractor Status under the Fair Labor Standards Act | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Labor press release: January 6, 2021)
Washington, DC - - The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a final rule clarifying the standard for employee versus independent contractor status under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
“This rule brings long-needed clarity for American workers and employers,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia. “Sharpening the test to determine who is an independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act makes it easier to identify employees covered by the Act, while recognizing and respecting the entrepreneurial spirit of workers who choose to pursue the freedom associated with being an independent contractor.”
“Streamlining and clarifying the test to identify independent contractors will reduce worker...01-07-2021, 06:18 AM -
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Issues List of Banks Examined for Community Reinvestment Act Compliance | site |
(Information contained in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation [FDIC] press release dated: January 4, 2021)
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in October 2020. The CRA is a 1977 law intended to encourage insured banks and thrifts to meet local credit needs, including those of low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with safe and sound operations. As part of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 (FIRREA), Congress mandated the public disclosure of an evaluation and rating for each bank or thrift that undergoes a CRA examination on or after July 1, 1990. You may obtai...01-04-2021, 10:24 PM -
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services publishes Guidance for National Guard Personnel Regarding COVID-19 Vaccines and Immunity under the PREP Act | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release: December 18, 2020)
Guidance for National Guard Personnel Regarding COVID-19 Vaccines and Immunity under the PREP Act
Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Assistant Secretary for Health, extended coverage under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) to qualified National Guardsmen administering COVID-19 vaccinations that have been authorized or licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This will allow states and/or territories that wish to fully utilize National Guard health and medical personnel to increase access to COVID-19 vaccinations the flexibility to do so. ...12-22-2020, 01:50 PM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Colmery Act IT Implementation Complete | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release: December 7, 2020) Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) and Office of Information and Technology (OIT) successfully completed all Information Technology (IT) updates to process education benefits for Veterans. The updates were completed Oct. 31 in accordance with the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017, also referred to as the Forever GI Bill, which included 31 GI Bill®-related provisions that expanded and enhanced opportunities for Veterans using the GI Bill® in pursuit of their educational and career goals. “These IT changes improve our ability to deliver education benefits to GI Bill® students.” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “As VA works to modernize processes, this milestone is an imp...12-07-2020, 08:08 PM -
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation issues List of Banks Examined for Community Reinvestment Act Compliance | site |
(Information contained in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation press release: December 4, 2020) The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in September 2020. The CRA is a 1977 law intended to encourage insured banks and thrifts to meet local credit needs, including those of low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with safe and sound operations. As part of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 (FIRREA), Congress mandated the public disclosure of an evaluation and rating for each bank or thrift that undergoes a CRA examination on or after July 1, 1990. You may obtain a ...12-05-2020, 11:34 PM -
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Announces False Claims Act Working Group to Enhance Efforts to Combat Fraud and Focus Resources on Bad Actors | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release: December 4, 2020) Today, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the creation of a False Claims Act Working Group (Working Group) that enhances its partnership with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) to combat fraud and abuse by identifying and focusing resources on those who seek to defraud the American taxpayers. HHS regulates over a third of the United States economy. In 2020, HHS provided over $1.5 trillion in grants and other payments to public and private recipients, including for healthcare items and services. In addition, HHS is one of the largest government contractors, paying over $170 billion in 2020 to thousands of contractors...12-05-2020, 07:12 PM -
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Amends PREP Act Declaration, Including to Expand Access to COVID-19 Countermeasures Via Telehealth | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release: December 3, 2020)
Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a fourth amendment to the Declaration under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) to increase access to criticial countermeasures against COVID-19. “During the pandemic, the Trump Administration has made broader use of the PREP Act to expand access to potentially life-saving countermeasures than we’ve ever done before in a public health emergency,” said HHS Secretary Alex Azar. “This new use of the PREP Act will help expand access to important services via telehealth, increase availability of authorized PPE, and make it easier to administer eventual COVID-19 vaccines.” Among other things, ...12-04-2020, 04:24 AM -
Agencies release Fact Sheet to clarify Bank Secrecy Act Due Diligence Requirements for Banks and Credit Unions that offer Services to Charities and Non-profits | site |
(Information contained in Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System press release: November 19, 2020)
Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
National Credit Union Administration
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency Federal financial institution regulatory agencies today issued a joint fact sheet clarifying that bank and credit union compliance efforts to meet Bank Secrecy Act due diligence requirements for customers that are charities and other nonprofit organizations should be based on the money laundering risks posed by the customer relationship. The fact sheet highlights the importance of legitimate charities and nonprofit organizations having access to financial services and being able to transmit funds ...11-20-2020, 07:14 PM -
U.S. Education Secretary DeVos Unveils Interactive Online Portal to Provide Transparency on Use of CARES Act Education Funding by States, Grantees | site |
Education Department says portal shows billions of dollars left unspent as many schools across the country remain closed
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release: November 20, 2020)
Washington - - U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos announced today a new online portal that clearly shows if states, local educational agencies (LEAs), and institutions of higher education (IHEs) are using the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act's $31 billion Education Stabilization Fund (ESF) meant to keep learning going for students during the pandemic. The portal captures awards and expenditures reported as of Sept. 30, six months after enactment of the CARES Act. The interactive data map and other informational tools can be found at ...11-20-2020, 06:41 PM -
U.S. Department of Labor updates Tool to Determine if Health Plans or Insurers comply with Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act | site |
(October 23, 2020) - - Today, October 23, 2020, the U.S. Department of Labor published the following information:
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) has released an updated tool to help employers comply with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) and related requirements under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).
The improved tool will help group health plans, plan sponsors, plan administrators, health insurance issuers and other parties determine if a group health plan or a health insurance issuer complies with provisions of both laws relating to mental health and substance-use disorder benefits.
“The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act ensures parity in benefits...10-27-2020, 01:40 AM -
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Agencies invite Comment on Proposed Rule under Bank Secrecy Act | site |
(October 23, 2020) - - Today, October 23, 2020, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System published the following information:
Agencies invite comment on proposed rule under Bank Secrecy Act
Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
Financial Crimes Enforcement Network
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and the Federal Reserve Board today invited comment on a proposed rule that would amend the recordkeeping and travel rule regulations under the Bank Secrecy Act. FinCEN and the Board, pursuant to their shared authority, are proposing amendments to the recordkeeping rule jointly, while FinCEN, pursuant to its sole authority, is proposing amendments to the travel rule. Under the current recordkeeping and travel rule regulations, financial institutions must collect, retain, and...10-23-2020, 06:53 PM -
Federal Reserve requests Public Comment on Technical, Clarifying Updates regarding the Federal Open Market Committee’s Rules Regarding Availability of Information, which describe its Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Procedures | site |
(October 14, 2020) - - Today, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System published the following information: The Federal Reserve on Wednesday requested public comment on technical, clarifying updates regarding the Federal Open Market Committee's Rules Regarding Availability of Information, which describe its Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) procedures. The proposal would implement non-substantive updates to the Committee's FOIA procedures to make them consistent with the Committee's current practices and to incorporate recent changes in law and guidance. The proposal also incorporates formatting and language from the Federal Reserve Board's revisions to its own FOIA procedures, which are effective October 15, 2020. Comm...10-14-2020, 05:32 PM -
Agencies issue Statement providing Additional Information for certain Bank Secrecy Act Due Diligence Requirements | site |
(August 21, 2020) - - Today, August 21, 2020, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System published the following information:
Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Financial Crimes Enforcement Network
National Credit Union Administration
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
WASHINGTON—The Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, the National Credit Union Administration, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency today issued a joint statement clarifying that Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) due diligence requirements for customers who may be considered "politically exposed persons" (PEPs) should be commensurate with the risks posed by the PEP...08-31-2020, 01:45 PM -
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides $100 Million in CARES ACT Funding to Native American Tribes to support Coronavirus Recovery Efforts | site |
(August 31, 2020) - - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development published (today) the following information:
WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson announced that HUD has awarded a total of $100 million to Tribes across the Nation as part of HUD’s Indian Community Development Block Grant Imminent Threat program (ICDBG-CARES). This funding helps address problems that pose an imminent threat to public health or safety of Tribal residents and will be used to help Tribes prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVID-19. See list of funding here.
“The Trump Administration is committed to helping families throughout Indian Country to access essential resources during the coronavirus outbreak,” said Secretary...08-31-2020, 01:29 PM -
Federal Reserve Board publishes Community Reinvestment Act Analytics Data Tables| site |
(March 6, 2020) - - Today, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System published the following information:
The Federal Reserve Board on Friday released a series of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Analytics Data Tables. This data resource is intended to provide insight into the historical relationship between bank lending activity and regulatory assessments.
The tables combine Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data, CRA small business and small farm loan data, and manually extracted data from CRA Performance Evaluations. Bank attributes, deposit, branching, demographic, and other third-party vendor data supplement the tables.
More information about this database can be found here: https://www.federalreserve.gov/consu...ata_tables.htm...03-06-2020, 07:29 PM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs says Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act claims now being Determined| site |
(December 31, 2019) - - Today (December 31, 2019), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs published the following information:
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will begin deciding claims for the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019 at 12:01 a.m., Philippine Standard Time, Jan. 1, 2020. The Philippines is the farthest east VA regional benefits office. The Act extends the presumption of herbicide exposure, that include toxins such as Agent Orange, to Veterans who served in the offshore waters of the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Signed into law Jun. 25, the law specifically affects Blue Water Navy (BWN) Veterans who served no more than 12 nautical miles offshore of the Republic of Vietnam between Jan. 6, 1962 and May 7, 1975, as well as Veterans who served in the Korean Demilitarized Zo...01-09-2020, 03:54 AM -
U.S. Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Justice sign Interagency Memorandum on the Application of False Claims Act| site |
Agreement Fulfills Key component of HUD Housing Finance Reform Plan
(October 28, 2019) - - Today (October 28, 2019), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) published the following information:
WASHINGTON - U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson and U.S. Attorney General William Barr today issued a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two agencies that sets prudential guidance on the appropriate use of the False Claims Act (FCA) for violations by Federal Housing Administration (FHA) lenders....
11-02-2019, 01:52 PM -
Fact Sheet: Final Rules on Religious and Moral Exemptions and Accommodation for Coverage of Certain Preventive Services Under the Affordable Care Act
On November 7, 2018 the Departments of Health and Human Services, Treasury, and Labor (the Departments) announced two final rules, on display at the Federal Register, that provide conscience protections to Americans who have a religious or moral objection to health insurance that covers contraceptive methods, including certain contraceptives that many view as abortifacients, and/or sterilization procedures.
Background- The Affordable Care Act (ACA) did not require contraceptive coverage in health insurance. It did not require the government to violate religious or moral objections to providing or purchasing such coverage. In addition, it exempted plans grandfathered under the ACA – which cover millions of women – from being required
11-10-2018, 02:31 AM -
U.S. Small Business Administration Hails Signing of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act as a Major Boost for Small Businesses and Job Creation
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) leader joins President at White House signing ceremony
Washington, DC - - (May 24, 2018) - - Linda McMahon, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration, voiced enthusiastic support for the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act signed into law by President Trump Thursday morning. McMahon attended the bill signing at the White House, surrounded by fellow Cabinet members and a bipartisan group of lawmakers who supported the legislation. “I applaud President Trump for delivering on his promises to make regulatory reform and tax cuts key pillars of his pro-growth agenda,” McMahon said. “As I meet with small business own...05-30-2018, 11:00 AM -
Statement by Acting U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie Concerning VA MISSION Act
(May 3, 2018) - -Statement by Acting U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie
Introduction of H.R. 5674, the VA MISSION Act
I commend Chairman Roe and the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee for introducing legislation that, as Chairman Roe so aptly states, “will ensure veterans have timely access to the care they have earned.”
As I said last week, there is simply no denying how vital community providers are to VA’s mission, as the Choice program accounts for an average of more than 30,000 appointments per day. The House bill is based on a bipartisan agreement that Roe proposed including in last month’s omnibus spending package. It would streamline and merge VA’s multiple community care efforts into a single program, require a n...05-04-2018, 08:27 AM -
Treasury Releases Community Reinvestment Act Modernization Recommendations
April 4, 2018
Washington, DC - - (April 3, 2018) - - Today the U.S. Department of the Treasury released recommendations to modernize the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The recommendations were issued to the primary CRA regulators, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Treasury’s objective in developing these recommendations is to better align CRA activity with the needs of the communities that banks serve, while being conducted in a manner consistent with a bank’s safety and soundness. “Forty years since the passage of CRA, it is time for modernization to fit today’s banking landscape and community needs,” said Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin. “Our recommendations will improve the effectiveness of CRA by e...04-04-2018, 09:58 AM -
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to Act on Waters of the United States Rule
Washington, DC - - (February 28, 2018) - - President Donald Trump issued an Executive Order at the White House today, directing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to review and then rescind or revise the 2015 Clean Water Rule: Definition of “Waters of the United States”. EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt joined the President for this announcement and afterward issued the following statement: “EPA intends to immediately implement the Executive Order and submit a Notice to the Office of the Federal Register announcing our intent to review the 2015 Rule, and then to propose a new rule that will rescind or revise that rule. The President’s action today preserves a federal role in protecting water, but it also restores the states’ important role in the regulation of water.” View the Executive Order and the Federal Register No...02-28-2017, 11:12 PM -
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Awards $1.09 Million Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Grant to Gees Bend Ferry in Wilcox County, AL
February 28, 2017
Atlanta, GA - - (February 24, 2017) - - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded a $1.09 million Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant to the historic Gees Bend Ferry in Wilcox County, AL. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is funding this repowering project through the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) as a part of the National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program. The grant was announced by the EPA during an event hosted by state, federal and local officials to celebrate 10 years of ALDOT ferry service between Camden and Gee's Bend, the home of the famous Quilters of Gee's Bend. The DERA award will provide partial funding to replace the current diesel-powered ferry with a 100% electric ferry. This will be the first zero-emission pas...02-28-2017, 10:58 PM -
Company to Pay $9.5 Million for False Reporting of Safety Inspections and Clean Water Act Violations That Led to Explosion in Gulf of Mexico
February 24, 2017
Washington, DC - - (February 23, 2017) - - Wood Group PSN Inc., a Nevada corporation headquartered in Houston, Texas, was ordered to pay $9.5 million today in two separate cases involving their conduct in the Gulf of Mexico. Specifically, Wood Group PSN was ordered to pay $7 million for falsely reporting over several years that personnel had performed safety inspections on offshore facilities in the Gulf of Mexico in the Western District of Louisiana, and $1.8 million for negligently discharging oil into the Gulf of Mexico in violation of the Clean Water Act after an explosion on an offshore facility in the Eastern District of Louisiana, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeff Wood of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, U.S. Attorney for the...02-23-2017, 10:08 PM