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Protecting lives everywhere
In 2025, the WHO Health Emergencies Programme responded to a growing number of health emergencies driven by conflict, climate shocks and disease outbreaks, amid severe funding constraints. This report shows how WHO delivered life‑saving health services, supported countries to detect and control outbreaks, and helped maintain essential health care in some of the world’s most fragile settings
Trump officials hit California with ‘largest ever’ freeze on Medicaid funds
The Trump administration suspended $1.1 billion in California Medicaid funds over fraud claims, threatening home care for 900,000 seniors and people with disabilities.
Former ABC13 sports director Dennis Carter raises funds for student-athlete scholarships
Former ABC13 sports director Dennis Carter spent time on the golf course raising money to help local student-athletes take their next step.
Why Wisconsin lawmakers blew up a state budget surplus deal
Democratic and Republican legislators reject a deal to cut taxes and boost school funding.
NC raids rural health fund for children’s hospital, setting up debate over future healthcare dollars
A new state budget deal to boost funding for a children’s hospital in Apex will siphon money from a rural health initiative that was supposed to build rural health centers, including in Wilson, but which has stalled for several years.
‘This does not have to be a red state or blue state issue.’ Vance defends Fraud Czar role as admin. targets blue state fund
Colorado lawmakers pass bill negating road-funding ballot measure
Colorado lawmakers on Wednesday approved a last‑minute amendment to a bill crafted to counter a ballot measure requiring that public funds collected for “road transportation” go to “road transportation,” setting up a high‑stakes clash over street funding and public services. House Bill 1430 would only go into effect if Initiative No. 175 passes in November. That […]
Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Rams and U.S. Soccer Team Up with BofA to Host Annual “Sports with Us” Clinic for Southland Kids
\\ MEDIA ADVISORY ** Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Rams and U.S. Soccer Team Up with BofA to Host Annual “Sports with Us” Clinic for Southland Kids Legendary athletes to lead clinic focusing on sports fundamentals and life skills WHAT: On May 19, approximately 100 kids from across Los Angeles
This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition - City leaders push for practical money skills in schools
Florida now requires a stand-alone personal financial literacy course for high school graduation - but guests on This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition say the real question is whether it changes behavior. Host Kent Justice talks with Dr. Ronetta Wards of the Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF) and Howard Dale of the Rotary Club of Jacksonville about what “financial literacy” should actually mean for 17- and 18-year-olds: credit, debt, taxes, budgeting, savings, investing, and even emerging currency like crypto.
Science Pub: Fifty Years of Paleontology at John Day
With Nicholas Famoso, PhD, Paleontology Program Manager and Museum Curator at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, and Colin Deverell, Acting Northwest Regional Director for the National Parks Conservation Association. Bringing one of Oregon’s great national parks to you, learn about the incredible paleontological history preserved and studied at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument from its chief paleontologist, Nick Famoso, as the park celebrates its 50th anniversary. In addition, learn from the National Parks Conservation Association about efforts to protect the greater John Day landscape so its remarkable history and natural wonders are preserved for generations to come. Science Pubs are a casual lecture series located in fun venues across the region, recommended for ages 10 and over.
When Businesspeople Run Government, the Government Doesn't Become a Business
Central planning from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, President Donald Trump, and others reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of what makes private markets work.
A free concert, bigger parade and expanded entertainment: Buckhannon's investment helps Strawberry Festival festival reach new heights
Buckhannon boosted its support for the West Virginia Strawberry Festival with a record $50,000 contribution, helping fund a free Main Street concert headlined by Parmalee and expanded entertainment.
Anthropic, Gates Foundation launch $200 million partnership for AI in health, education
SAN FRANCISCO, May 14 (Reuters) - Anthropic and the Gates Foundation have pledged $200 million to back artificial intelligence-related public goods and areas including health and education, they said on Thursday. Support from Anthropic's technical staff and usage credits for its Claude AI will account for its half of the financial commitment, while the Bill Gates co-founded Gates Foundation will provide grant funding, program design and expertise, officials told Reuters.
This Summer on Disney Cruise Line: New Entertainment, Frozen Fun in Alaska, and More
This summer, Disney Cruise Line entertainment is bigger, bolder, and more magical than ever. New and refreshed entertainment experiences will debut across the fleet, giving you more chances to sing, dance, and celebrate at sea. From Broadway‑style stage spectaculars and high‑energy deck parties to destination‑inspired moments, entertainment takes the spotlight all summer long. If you
AI filmmaking startup Flick lands $6M seed funding: pitch deck
Meet the AI filmmaking startup Flick, which joined Y Combinator and raised a $6 million seed. It wants to be a go-to tool for creatives.
Predicting the Broncos' 2026 schedule
This is NOT the Broncos' 2026 schedule. But it was fun to make! What do you think of our prediction?
NSF X-Labs
NSF's mission is to advance the progress of science, a mission accomplished by funding proposals for research and education made by scientists, engineers, and educators from across the country.
BASF and NOD Apiary Products collaborate to advance honey bee health
BASF and NOD Apiary Products Ltd., a Canadian company specializing in honey bee health solutions, today announced a collaboration focused on advancing honey bee health and supporting beekeepers through shared expertise and funding.
FIFA announces World Cup final halftime with Madonna, Shakira and BTS
The governing body said the show would support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which is raising $100 million to help children access education and soccer
Silver Spring small business welcomes tariff relief, but obstacles remain
For small businesses like Princess Awesome in Silver Spring, tariff refunds won't make up for a decline in sales and lost customers.
Labor accused of ‘robbing Peter to pay Paul’ for axing $760m research program to fund other science measures
Researchers say budget decision to cut commercialisation program to fund the CSIRO and other science initiatives undermines the government’s own priorities
Miami-Dade commissioners discuss long-delayed mental health facility, but still not on agenda for a vote
More than two decades after voters approved funding for a mental health facility, Miami-Dade County leaders are still debating when — or how — it will finally open.
Deschutes County Commission races bring in over $1M in fundraising
Candidates raise over $1 million in bid for four Deschutes County commission seats after voters expanded the board in 2024.
Scripps strikes local broadcast deal with Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons are taking their local broadcasts over-the-air. The franchise, which was one of 13 NBA teams under contract with Main Street Sports Group, owner of the now-defunct FanDuel Sports Networks, has officially inked a deal with Scripps Sports to broadcast games on local over-the-air affiliate WMYD TV20 Detroit in the Detroit market. Scripps…
JD Vance threatens health funding to states that don’t comply with White House anti-fraud effort
Medicare has already paused hospice and home healthcare agency signups as potential fraud is investigated
Rep. Crane Applauds Release of Federal Funding for Arizona Health Care and Tribal Infrastructure
Congressman Eli Crane
Trump administration foreign aid cuts are having an impact on maternal health in Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone had reduced its maternal mortality by nearly 80 percent since 2000. That process is now in danger as the country grapples with the lack of international funding including from the United States, which cut aid in 2025. NBC News’ Zinhle Essamuah in partnership with the non-profit newsroom the Fuller Project show us how doctors in the ground are trying to save lives as resources dwindle.
Science doesn't have a monopoly on good ideas
Scientific disciplines often shy away from asking fundamental "what if" questions. But philosophy – if unencumbered by dogma or ideology – has much to offer evidence-based enquiry
Tariff Refunds in Michigan: State helping businesses recoup losses after high court ruling
The first refunds tied to Trump's overturned tariffs were issued on May 11.
Tariff Refunds Begin to Reach Businesses as Trump Lashes Out at Court
The government must return about $160 billion, plus interest, collected from duties deemed illegal and potentially more if it loses a related tariff case.
How does diet impact brain health? Alzheimer's Association shares nutrition tips with cognitive function in mind.
Vance to States: Address Fraud or Lose Federal Medicaid Funding
The Trump administration is set to launch audits of state watchdogs responsible for ferreting out wrongdoing.
Yahoo Sports and FOX One team up to introduce new soccer fantasy games ahead of summer's biggest sporting event
The games give fans fun new ways to put their predictions to the test while enjoying the FIFA World Cup 2026™ on FOX One.
NBA Star Kevin Love on Helping Kids Learn About Mental Health
NBA champion Kevin Love joins TODAY’s Carson Daly to talk about his nonprofit, the Kevin Love Fund, a free program for kids that provides tools to help them understand and overcome mental health struggles. Love explains how his curriculum can be implemented in schools, shares how Simone Biles thanked him for his work, and opens up about how his mission set the foundation for him as a father.
Mobile-health Network Solutions Enters into Non-Binding Strategic Memorandum to Facilitate Up to US$100 Million in Private Equity Funding for AI-Powered Healthcare Expansion
Singapore, Singapore--(Newsfile Corp. - May 13, 2026) - Mobile-health Network Solutions (NASDAQ: MNDR) ("MNDR" or the "Company"), a leading AI-powered digital health platform, today announced that it has entered into a Letter of Memorandum with White Group Pte. Ltd. (Singapore) ("White Group") outlining a strategic collaboration to facilitate private equity funding of up to US$100 million to support MNDR's AI-powered healthcare expansion and digital health infrastructure initiatives.Under the...
Yes, Valve's new Steam Controller screams if you drop it from a great enough height
Adventurous (or clumsy) owners of Valve's new Steam Controller have discovered it includes a fun little easter egg, if you don't mind sending it into freefall.
From MAGA pastor to J6 prosecutor, what’s hot in WA politics
Two Washington state House campaigns are far outpacing the other 200 in early fundraising. It shows how politics right now is either all-in with Trump’s MAGA movement, or all-out.
Why election politics loom over Madison deal on tax relief, school funds
Many on the November ballot dislikes a deal for tax relief and school funds brokered by Gov. Tony Evers and Republican leaders. Here's why.
Democrats abandon rollback of business tax breaks to fund family tax credit after Colorado governor’s veto threat
House Bills 1221 and 1222 were killed in the Senate Finance Committee on Monday at their sponsors’ request in response to a veto threat from Gov. Jared Polis
Big concerts, fun festivals: 18 Wilmington events for this weekend
It's the last weekend before Memorial Day tourists descend on the Wilmington area and summer (unofficially) begins.
Top 10 things to do this weekend. Cold steins, tacos and Kid Cudi
Find something fun to do in the Queen City this weekend. Check out our list for ideas.
As I see it | US’ scientific self-harm will only help China
While Washington slashes funding for the sciences, Beijing is clinching its lead in everything from patent applications to publications.
Decades after voter approval, Miami mental health center still not open
It has been more than 20 years since Miami-Dade County voters approved funding for a facility intended to help people living with mental illness. Yet today, the $51 million Miami Center for Mental Health and Recovery remains unopened despite being fully constructed and ready for use.
Colorado Democrats pass stopgap funding for health insurance subsidies
Colorado Democrats have approved a stopgap plan to keep health insurance subsidies afloat, but not without prompting concerns from members of both parties about the sustainability of the funding. Senate Bill 178, which was introduced...
U to build out Utah Health AI Vault (UHAIV) with state support
Using an infusion of state funding, the University of Utah is building an AI-assisted computing infrastructure expected to advance population-based medical and policy decisions. Under...
Secret Service Makes Case for Security Funding Amid G.O.P. Unease on Ballroom
The presidential protection agency detailed how it would use a proposed $1 billion as Republicans asked for more detail and Democrats went on the attack.
US adversaries using the 'political theater' Democrats created as a point of weakness: DHS Secretary Mullin
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin discusses Chinese infiltration efforts in the United States and DHS funding issues on 'The Story.'
ALOHA for HAWAII: North Shore ‘Open for business,’ but storm recovery still underway behind the scenes
As Hawaii News Now’s ALOHA for HAWAII fundraiser kicks off, one of the groups set to benefit says Oahu’s North Shore is welcoming visitors again, even as many families continue rebuilding out of public view.
Scientists Discover Cheap Material That Kills Deadly Superbugs
A new sulfur-rich antimicrobial polymer shows strong effectiveness against fungal and bacterial pathogens and may offer an affordable solution to antimicrobial resistance.
Students learn about the science of baseball at Citizens Bank Park
The Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Gas Works teamed up to host the children for a STEM-filled day of fun.
Florida Coach Jon Sumrall Claps Back At Texas' Steve Sarkisian
Florida head coach Jon Sumrall had a fun response to Steve Sarkisian dissing Ole Miss.
2026 NBA Mock Draft: Clippers take a huge swing at No. 5, Darius Acuff falls to Kings at pick No. 7
Testing and measurements are starting to roll in from the NBA Draft Combine. For this mock draft, the fun likely starts at pick No. 5 when the Clippers are on the clock
Scientists make old blood stem cells young again in major anti-aging breakthrough
As blood stem cells age, their lysosomes become overactive and damaged, triggering inflammation and weakening the body’s ability to regenerate healthy blood and immune cells. By calming this cellular “overdrive,” researchers restored the stem cells’ youthful function, dramatically boosting their ability to regenerate and produce balanced blood cells.
Integrating Mental Health Into Medical Care
The question is no longer whether mental health belongs in health care settings. It is whether health care systems can function effectively without it.
Sara Lee owner to invest $1B in US business
The bread and pastry company said the funding will support innovation and affordability efforts as the Mexico-based company expands its reach in one of its largest regions.
First wave of tariff refunds will hit some businesses Tuesday
Tariff refunds will start going back to businesses on Tuesday, officials said.
A Philanthropic Tree of Life: Seeding Health Equity Through Influence and Innovation
Editor’s Note: This article was first published by Grantmakers in Health here and was authored by: Gaea A. Daniel, Assistant Professor, Emory University (Direct Relief Fund for Health Equity …
Laws on veterans, 9/11 families and election certification face threat in proxy voting case
Several veterans’ benefits programs, payments for 9/11 families, a ban on TikTok on government devices, and changes Congress made to how presidential elections are certified in light of the January 6 Capitol attack are all in jeopardy with a case challenging how the Democratic-led US House relied on proxy votes to pass a massive, Covid-era funding bill.
Aspirity inks debut deal with stake for payments business
The private equity firm closed its first-time fund last year with €890m in commitments
Post-pandemic allowances for telehealth claims have not triggered runaway healthcare spending
If Congress doesn’t act soon, CMS’s flexible funding of telemedicine visits—a temporary holdover from the COVID era—will dry up next year. A new study may help persuade fiscally cautious representatives not to let that happen
Kari Lake, Who Led Effort to Shutter Voice of America, Is Named Ambassador to Jamaica
Ms. Lake tried and failed to fire hundreds of Voice of America journalists and to cut funding for other federally funded news groups like Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
DeepAFM: A deep learning method to decode protein motion
Proteins change shape as they function, and these changes are essential for processes such as drug interactions and cellular activity. Researchers from the Tokyo University of Science developed an AI-based method called DeepAFM that is trained on millions of simulated images representing different protein states, accurately identifying transitions between closed and open states in a protein called SecA. This approach highlights the growing potential of AI to solve complex challenges in biology and medicine.
Sports Betting Harms Kids and Communities — What Parents Need to Know
Sports betting companies spend millions to portray sports betting as harmless and fun. It's a lie parents can't afford to swallow - for their children's sake.
Scientists discover hidden switch in immune cells that helps the body kill deadly fungus
Scientists at the University of East Anglia (UK) have contributed to discovering a "control switch" inside our immune cells that helps the body destroy dangerous fungal infections. Researchers found that ...
Latest Google Home update speeds up Gemini, ‘Ask Home’ now works with voice commands
Yet another Google Home update rolling out this week speeds up Gemini while adding “Ask Home” functionality to voice commands...
Everett-based Funko is hit with a new lawsuit
A new lawsuit claims Everett-based Funko, known for its Pop! vinyl figures, misleads users about how their data will be used.
Is This Why Science Advances One Funeral at a Time?
Is This Why Science Advances One Funeral at a Time? As researchers age, they produce less disruptive work.
Colorado ethics panel finds probable cause in complaint against Democrat caucus leader
The colleagues of a Democrat unanimously concluded they have probable cause to believe she committed an ethical violation by mismanaging her party caucus’s funds as its co-chair. The House Ethics Committee was charged with examining a complaint from Rep. Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch, alleging that Rep. Mandy Lindsay, D-Aurora, mishandled and improperly used caucus funds for […]
Bluffton school awarded STEM grant to launch Science Olympiad team
A Bluffton school is receiving new funding to strengthen science and technology education while launching its first-ever Science Olympiad team.
Evers, GOP leaders reach $1.8B deal to lower taxes, boost school funds
Democratic Gov. Tony Evers and Republican legislative leaders have struck a nearly $2 billion deal to deliver new funding to schools and provide tax relief.
Jackie Martínez Marushka Launches Hispanic Entertainment Alliance Charitable Fund
The Hispanic Entertainment Alliance, founded by entertainment PR strategist Jackie Martínez [...]
11 Reasons to Wait for the iPhone 18 Pro
We're only four months out from the launch of Apple's premium next-generation smartphone lineup, and while we're not expecting a sea change in terms of functionality, there are still several enhancements rumored to be coming to the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. One thing worth noting is that Apple is reportedly planning a major change to its iPhone release cycle this year, adopting a two-phase rollout starting with the iPhone 18 series.
Spring Donor Celebration honors the ‘greater good’ at Vanderbilt Health
Four open-heart operations later, Eden is now in second grade and bubbling with ebullient energy. To honor the lifesaving compassionate care she received at Monroe Carell, her parents established a fund in her name, as Elisa Hill put it, “to be for another family what others were for us.”
White House ballroom funds hang over GOP push to fund ICE without Democrats
Blurred Lines: WHOOP’s $10B Deal Begs Question, Can The Wellness Brand Cross Over Into Health?
WHOOP’s $575 million funding round brings on major healthcare institutions, as the wearable company pushes beyond wellness and into preventative healthcare.
Scientists Changed a Lifeform’s Fundamental Code. It Shouldn’t Have Survived—but It Did.
20 amino acids are usually necessary for life, but scientists successfully deleted one.
Suicide Reenters Top 10 Causes of Death as More Americans Are Experiencing Mental Health Conditions
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to elevate the needs of the millions of Americans who have a mental health condition. The term refers to a wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior, which can cause distress and problems functioning in social, work, and family activities. This year, the awareness month arrives with sobering news: The U.S. mortality data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that suicide has replaced COVID-19 as the country’s 10th leading cause of death.
With more money than ever, California’s biggest pension funds are a political battleground
Should California pension funds invest in fossil fuels? How about Tesla and Palantir? Those debates are playing out at CalPERS and CalSTRS.
'Space Gal' Emily Calandrelli Is on a Mission to Make Science Fun for Everyone
Emily Calandrelli, aka "The Space Gal," is a popular YouTuber and host of former Netflix series "Emily's Wonder Lab."
Safe, Healthy, and Happy: Practical Tips To Help Kids Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing Make the Most of Summer
Swimming, playing outside, and traveling are central parts of the summer experience for many children. For families with children who are deaf and hard of hearing, taking some additional precautions can help kids stay safe without sacrificing any of the fun.
AtlantiCare funds new health care college with Stockton University
AtlantiCare and Stockton University are partnering to open a new health care college in Atlantic City.
Scientists Press Congress on Dismissal of National Science Foundation Board and Research Funding
The slowed pace of grants by the National Science Foundation, under attack from the White House, could put the United States at a disadvantage with China, the scientists warned.
Three enjoyable ways to slow your brain's ageing
Our brains thrive on a challenge, but it doesn't all have to be hard work to see the health benefits. Here are three simple and fun ways to protect your brain as you age.
This Commanders' 2026 mock schedule would be lots of fun
Here's our mock schedule for the Commanders in 2026 and why.
Pophouse Entertainment Rewriting the Rules of Music Licensing
Pophouse Entertainment is doing something fundamentally different in music licensing, and the industry is starting to pay attention.
Ambani's Jio Platforms IPO pivots to pure fundraising, no investor exits, sources say
Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Jio Platforms has pivoted to a pure fundraising for its planned Mumbai listing, selling a 2.5% stake in the offering and dropping earlier plans that would have allowed some shareholders to exit, two sources said.
Wrobleski's grit not enough as Dodgers continue offensive funk
LOS ANGELES — There are losses that spiral quickly, and then there are losses that somehow reveal something useful beneath the damage.
Union-funded anti-Spencer Pratt ad sparks backlash as critics say it could help him
LA unions spent $221,000 on a political ad attacking Republican Spencer Pratt's mayoral campaign, but critics say the messaging could backfire.
Tare: ‘Milan must be united, Champions League qualification fundamental’
Milan director Igli Tare calls on fans to be ‘united’ with the club despite tonight’s protests, insisting ‘Champions League qualification is fundamental’ on a sporting and economic level.The...
MN politics: HCMC funding still in question as legislative session winds down | FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul
With only a week left in the Minnesota legislative session, congressional candidates are securing endorsements ahead of the elections in November. But the issue of funding Hennepin County Medical Center still remains, with the House and Senate offering very different solutions. Political analyst Blois Olson spoke to FOX 9's Leah Beno on the details.
New state funding announced for Catskill, Athens and Greenwich
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office says $10 million is earmarked for Catskill, while $4.5 million each is going to Athens and Greenwich.
Trump tariff refunds are actually happening – and businesses should pay attention
Business owners may have to wade through paperwork, but the US government is now processing refunds
Chicago Teachers Union wants $8.5 million dues hike to fund politics
“Has your brand become toxic?” This was a pointed question from WGN Political Editor Tahman Bradley, posed to Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates in a recent interview. Her immediate response: “I don’t understand the question.” When pressed, Gates added, “The Chicago Teachers Union is not a political party, it is a labor union.” But internal union documents show CTU leadership is trying to skim $8.5 million more from teacher paychecks explicitly for politics, while trying to silence union members critical of Gates’ leadership. Under the proposed dues hike, Chicago teachers would see up to $800 more per year flow from their paychecks to union coffers. The union already takes in more than $40 million a year, mostly from dues. And it spends less than 18 cents of every dollar on teacher representation. The No. 1 reason for the proposed dues hike? Politics. “We must win a majority of the first 21 person fully elected school board in November,” reads the first point in CTU’s member FAQ document.1 This directly contradicts CTU’s promise to members about how leadership uses dues money. The official CTU handbook tells members that the union does not use dues money for politics, so if they are interested in funding political activity, they should consider voluntary donations to CTU’s political action committee. “Our dues are not used for political purposes,” according to the handbook. “So our PAC relies on extra contributions from our members to support progressive candidates and to impact elected officials at the city, county and state levels.” This kind of double-speak is one reason members are concerned about another constitutional change slipped into the dues hike vote, which will take place on May 20-21: an attempt to stop members from holding the union accountable. A proposed amendment to the union constitution tries to place limits on when members may bring a lawsuit against the union for violating members’ rights.2 This provision is clearly a response to members’ lawsuit against union leadership regarding Gates’ years-long refusal to publish audited financial statements. The judge in that case has repeatedly denied the union’s attempts to dismiss it. Teachers opposed to these changes have been circulating this flier, urging members to vote no. What will CTU members get in return for millions of dollars in additional dues? If the 2024 school board elections are any indication—not much. CTU leadership’s record on school board races may not inspire confidence among members. A Chicago Policy Center analysis of a dozen affiliated PACs found CTU spent nearly $2.9 million on school board races in 2024. Of that spending, more than $2.1 million (75%) went to losing candidates. And while CTU-backed candidates lost six of the nine competitive seats overall, they fared worse in their biggest-spending races, losing five of six contests in which the union and its affiliates put up more than $250,000 for their candidate. The Chicago school board elections take place Nov. 3.3 Is another $8.5 million enough to clean up a toxic reputation? Not likely. Update on federal tax credit scholarship: Last week, Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she plans to opt into the federal tax credit scholarship program. If Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker follows suit, Illinois could unlock $1 billion in donor money statewide for both public- and private-school students. If Illinois does not opt in, that money will flow to other states. The Last Ward reported in February on how Illinois Democrats could unlock at least $100 million in new resources for Chicago public-school students by opting in. Update on the investigation into how Chicagoans learned about a meeting to hike their property taxes: The Last Ward reported in January on an absurd, taxpayer-funded investigation into how local media learned of a planned Chicago school board meeting to hike the district’s property tax levy. That investigation is now complete. Lawyers interviewed two dozen witnesses, and found nothing. Update on Illinois’ muni debt crisis: My colleague Joe Tabor last week published a must-read piece in Crain’s Chicago Business about how Illinois recently rejected south suburban Harvey’s request to be designated a “distressed city.” The saga shows why the state must implement a better structure to assist insolvent local governments, including allowing for the option to pursue debt relief via Chapter 9 bankruptcy. The Last Ward reported in October on how Harvey is tipping the first domino in Illinois’ municipal debt crisis. Mincing Rascals: I joined the Mincing Rascals podcast to discuss the SAFE-T Act, the millionaires tax, and more. My “green light” recommendation: Force Majeure (2014). 1 Notably, the No. 2 reason cited is “resources to fund a state-wide millionaires tax campaign in order to fully fund the state’s school funding formula.” The constitutional amendment necessary to implement a progressive income tax in Illinois recently died in the Illinois House, meaning this question would not appear on the ballot until 2028 at the earliest. 2 There is seemingly no single-subject rule for CTU constitutional amendments. So members only get one vote on the full package. One cannot vote “yes” on the dues hike and “no” on the restriction of members’ rights, for example. 3 Illinois law grants far too much power over local government to unelected officials like Gates. State lawmakers should fix that.
Former Polish Justice Minister Ziobro reportedly flees to US
Zbigniew Ziobro is wanted in Poland over the alleged misuse of public funds and the deployment of Pegasus spyware against political opponents.
Group tied to Democratic leadership in US House is funding attempt to redraw Colorado’s congressional map
Coloradans For a Level Playing Field received $150,000 from a nonprofit tied to a federal super PAC controlled by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
TikTok creator's crowdfunding campaign to buy Spirit Airlines racks up more than $335M in pledges
After Spirit Airlines shut down operations and canceled all flights, a viral TikTok campaign proposing crowdfunded ownership has gained over $335 million in online pledges.