USDA contingency fund use questioned amid government shutdown, potentially delaying SNAP (Breeze) benefits for millions. States warned to halt processing. Multi-year backup funds exist but aren't being used.
The EU Ombudsman investigates the European Commission for potential secret dealings with industry lobbyists regarding business-friendly campaigns and deregulation, raising transparency concerns. Lobbying scrutiny increases.
Top Air Force legal role remains vacant after JAG's departure, raising concerns over military readiness and legal leadership stability. Key decisions impacted. Vernon replaced Plummer.
EU addresses airspace incursions, hybrid threats from Belarus (balloons, smuggling). Lithuania closes border, seeks stronger EU sanctions, NATO action against Belarusian actions & Russian war support.
Trump admin. threatened layoffs due to funding bill impasse. Shutdown impacted federal workers, SNAP, and housing programs. Political divide evident in perceived impacts across states.
Edward Forst outlines GSA priorities: real estate, procurement, local business engagement, and innovation. He addresses AI concerns and pledges efficiency improvements.
House Democrats urge energy firms to waive late fees & prevent service termination for federal workers impacted by the government shutdown. The 2019 Public Servant Fair Therapy Act guarantees backpay.
FEMA faces staffing shortages with 9.5% workforce reduction under Trump. Leadership changes and policy shifts raise concerns about disaster response effectiveness. Katrina Declaration signed by employees.
Martin Selmayr's potential return to Brussels sparks controversy. A new role in EEAS triggers power struggle fears with von der Leyen and member states amid concerns over his influence and past.
Ursula von der Leyen unveils EU's 2026 legislative program, prioritizing housing affordability. A new Construction Act and Affordable Housing Plan aim to combat rising costs and financialization, addressing a key concern fueling far-right movements.
The Interior Department faces potential layoffs impacting numerous employees across agencies like BLM, USGS, and NPS, following a court order regarding the administration's cuts. TRO limits.
FAR 22.8 is removed following Trump's anti-DEI order, eliminating affirmative action plan requirements for federal contractors. Discrimination laws like Title VII still apply. Public comment is open.
Children can remain on their parent's health insurance until 26. TCC enrollment after age 26 requires timely action and premium payments. Conversion options exist for continuous coverage.
Trump administration faces legal challenges over layoffs (RIFs) during government shutdown. Court order halts new RIFs temporarily. OMB accused of illegal routing and exploiting the closure.
Union sues Trump admin over stripping collective bargaining rights from NASA workers, alleging retaliation for opposing anti-union actions. Claims NASA not related to national security.
Court orders release of Elon Musk's security clearance info, citing his public disclosures. Ruling balances privacy, national security, and public's right to know. Impacts security clearance accountability.
Federal workers face delayed paychecks and financial uncertainty during the government shutdown. Many are working without pay, impacting personal finances and essential government services. Shutdown affects 700,000+ furloughed employees.
