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Louisiana renews deals with 4 Medicaid providers; lawmakers want better health outcomes
Louisiana lawmakers renewed state contracts Thursday with four private managed care organizations that provide Medicaid coverage, calling on state health officials to ensure the money results in better health outcomes.
Katie Zacharia is out after 5 days as White House press secretary
Zacharia had gotten off to a bumpy start with her first and final press briefing, followed by an onslaught of headlines about whether she had misrepresented herself as a lawyer.
Katie Zacharia is out as White House press secretary after just 5 days on the job
Zacharia had come under scrutiny after a shaky first news briefing and the revelation that she represented herself as a lawyer but did not pass her bar exam after law school.
Expedia accused of inflating hotel prices in new lawsuit
Struggling to afford hotel prices? A new lawsuit alleges Expedia is jacking up costs across the board. A proposed class-action lawsuit filed on Oct. 2 in the U.S. District Court
Board of Regents: Candidates talk issues ahead of Nov. 3 election
Name: Edie Hooton Office Sought: Colorado Board of Regents, District2 Party: Democrat How should the Board navigate curriculum debates that have become politically polarized? Curriculum decisions must be anchored in the principle of “shared governance,” as defined in Regent Laws. The responsibility for academic excellence lies with the faculty and subject matter experts, as they […]
Jennifer Lawrence Officially Launches New Business Venture That Fans Weren’t Expecting
Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Lawrence is officially making her stride into the commercial beauty landscape. She is stepping into the beauty business with a haircare brand of her own. The actress is ...
Can social media bans protect young people's mental health? Early research suggests that bans aren't the answer
The year 2026 has been an expensive one for social media platforms. Since March, YouTube and Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, have settled or paid out in multiple lawsuits totaling ...
NCAA sues Ohio gov. over eligibility order for 5th-year athletes
The NCAA has filed a federal lawsuit against Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine three days after he signed an executive order giving the state's colleges and universities the option of allowing athletes who graduated from high school in 2022 to play a fifth year.
Can AI solve our mental health access problem?
Last week I asked you what worries you most about AI in health. It was close, but your top answer was “AI giving bad health advice.” Last week’s poll results: You’re in good company. This concern was top of mind at a conference I joined at Stanford last week, where researchers, clinicians, and people who build AI systems spent a day debating trust and safety in health AI. Stepping back, I’m also hearing your emerging concerns about AI’s impact on our well-being generally. I see this as a matter of public health, and we’ll take it in pieces as we learn together. Today we’ll focus on AI chatbots used for therapy for mental health. Early this month, Governor Newsom vetoed Senate Bill 903, California’s most ambitious attempt to regulate AI use for mental health. It’s at the center of active debate, and raises the questions patients, family members, citizens, and voters will face as AI moves deeper into health care. Let’s work through it. What is “AI-based therapy”? It’s really two things: purpose-built mental health apps designed to deliver structured support, and general chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini that people increasingly use for emotional support—even if they weren’t built for it. Spoiler alert: I don’t know whether the shift toward AI therapy is good or bad. The evidence isn’t there yet. But I do know it’s already happening, and I have some ideas about how we can roll it out with safety in mind. The therapy dilemma, in a nutshell Mental health challenges are common, and strain health and well-being across populations. Therapy (interactive dialogue with a trained, empathetic practitioner) helps many people heal. The demand for licensed therapists far exceeds the supply in California, and AI-based therapy can narrow that gap. AI-based therapy remains novel, unproven, and not well tested. Right off the bat, we can see we’re dealing with trade-offs here. Since the main driver of demand for therapy from a robot is lack of access to therapy from a human, we’ll start there. It’s too hard to find and afford a human therapist California is short roughly 55,000 licensed, non-prescribing therapists and counselors, about 40% of what we need. Psychiatrists, who rely on talk therapy as a complement to prescribed medications, are even more scarce. Eight counties have none, and density ranges from 1.7 per 100,000 residents in San Benito County, to 68.1 in Marin County. My wife is a psychiatrist in Marin, and even here access is tight. If it’s hard in the best-supplied county, imagine rural Sierra County, or the San Joaquin Valley. In 2024, more than half of Californians who tried to make a mental health appointment struggled to find a provider who took their insurance, compared with 14% for physical health care. When Senate staff posed as “secret shopper” patients and called 120 mental health providers in Medicare Advantage networks, they landed an appointment less than once for every five tries. Insurers pay behavioral health clinicians about 22% less than medical and surgical clinicians for comparable office visits. On top of that, billing denials and prior authorizations hit hardest at the solo and small practices common in mental health. Psychiatrists opt out of Medicare at the highest rate of any specialty. In many places, a cash practice for therapy fills quickly with patients paying $250 or more an hour, with no insurance paperwork at all. Families who can pay cash find providers more easily. Those who rely on insurance, including Medi-Cal enrollees, older adults, rural residents, and non-English speakers, compete for what’s left. So we can’t pretend the human system works, and we can’t blame people for turning to AI for support when they’re in distress. AI is filling the gap It’s estimated that roughly a quarter of AI users use it for mental health support. If you have internet, it’s available 24/7, it’s cheap, and it speaks your language. Uninsured adults are about twice as likely as insured adults to do it (30% vs. 14%). It feels anonymous in ways that may enable people to ask things they’re unsure or embarrassed about. The largely hidden, personal use makes it hard to study whether it’s actually helping people with their mental health issues, but researchers are trying. Does AI therapy work? A 2026 analysis of nearly 40 randomized trials found chatbots showed a real but small reduction in depression symptoms. But most of these trials were compared to an alternative of no therapy, not a human therapist. So the benefit of AI therapy is probably real, but modest, and mostly untested against the alternative of human contact. We need more studies. Serious concerns OpenAI’s own estimate is that more than a million ChatGPT users each week show signs of suicidal planning or intent. These are high stakes encounters, and AI doesn’t always get it right. That’s partly because a chatbot can sound like a therapist, but it has no license, no duty of care, and it’s not clear who to hold accountable when it gets things wrong. AI is also designed to help users in whatever task they’re seeking to accomplish. People may feel like they’re getting therapy, but they’re mainly getting a convincing conversation. It’s easy for an AI companion to wander into gray areas, like playing along with “creative writing” that may be about the user’s own suicidal intent. Courts are driving safety conversations A wave of lawsuits have been filed on behalf of families claiming that chatbots pushed people they loved toward self-harm, including teens who died by suicide. The first settlements came this year. OpenAI is headquartered in San Francisco, and dozens of cases alleging that ChatGPT drove users to suicide or self-harm are now before a San Francisco judge. Character.ai has filed for bankruptcy after several states brought lawsuits accusing the chatbot of pushing dangerous content to kids. But the technology seems to be improving. Last month, an independent evaluation found that newer AI models “almost never endorse suicide.” That’s progress, but our societal appetite for even one preventable death is very low. So how do we move forward? Finding a middle ground Earlier this month the governor vetoed Senate Bill 903, a bill designed to place guardrails on the use of AI for therapy. The bill would have prohibited any AI-based platform from being advertised as psychotherapy, and would have required a licensed professional to review and approve each encounter where AI was used to support therapeutic decisions. Newsom called it overly broad, since even routine screening questions would have needed clinician sign-off. Knowing we’re already short on mental health providers, requiring human review of AI encounters may not relieve our access problems. Still, the answer isn’t no oversight. Here’s one feasible short term solution. Rather than reviewing each encounter, a licensed clinician can design the guardrails: what counts as a crisis, what triggers an immediate handoff to a human, and what gets sampled for audit each month. The AI runs inside that structure. Conversations get checked, failures get reported, and a real clinician owns the framework. Medicine already has models to learn from. The FDA process for rolling out newly approved medications is an example. After a product reaches patients, we keep watching for adverse events. Patient-facing AI needs the same “digital pharmacovigilance”: systematic tracking of harms, near misses, and the types of groups that get hurt and why. It’s also critical that users know that they can reach a human if they’re in crisis. Most chatbots now include messages like these: Bottom line The rush to use unproven AI tools for mental health support is mostly a workaround, a sign of a health system people can’t get into. We need better access to proven care from licensed clinicians. That takes reimbursement that makes accepting insurance viable, and a bigger workforce. But, built and tested well, AI could be part of the answer. It could be the 2 a.m. check-in when no one else is awake, or a way for patients to practice skills their therapist taught them. It could be the first step to get someone the right level of care, and take paperwork off clinicians’ plates so they spend more time with patients. None of this is simple. The SB 903 veto doesn’t end the debate, and the legislature will be back. In the meantime, those of us using these tools need to stay informed, ask hard questions, and hold the companies building them accountable. I’ll try to do my part, and we’ll keep learning together. Love,Matt P.S. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or just needs to talk, call or text 988- you’ll reach a real person— or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7. Dr. Matt Willis is the author of Your Local Epidemiologist in California. A California native, he’s served as a primary care physician, CDC epidemiologist, and public health officer for Marin County, where he guided the pandemic response. He lives in Marin with his family and their dogs, Teddy and Ramona. Thank you Cynthia He, MD, PhD, and Parnika Saxena, MD, for their guidance in preparing this article. Cynthia works in an outpatient mental health clinic, treating patients who have Medi-Cal or, sometimes, no insurance. Parnika works in an inpatient psychiatric unit, treating patients with public or private insurance or self-pay ability. All opinions are their own and do not represent their employers.
Can States Still Protect Public Health? The Risk of a Climate Regulatory Vacuum - Petrie-Flom Center
On Oct. 5, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case that has the potential to greatly impact state and local municipalities’ ability to fight widespread threats to public and environmental health.
As Troy mayor vetoes Flock law, council president promises override
Mayor Carmella Mantello says the law is biased in favor of criminal defendants. Council President Sue Steele says the veto was expected.
How Congress' college sports bill could impact Delaware’s student athletes
Despite its recent gridlock, the U.S. Senate last month passed the Protect College Sports Act with broad bipartisan support, even as the bill divided Delaware’s normally lockstep delegation.
UAB Medicine partners with Lawson State Community College to create radiologic technologist pipeline
UAB Medicine and Lawson State Community College have launched a medical radiologic technology training program that creates a direct pathway for UAB Medicine employees to earn a degree, gain hands-on clinical experience, and pursue careers in medical imaging.
Lakewood elementary schools rolling out new science curriculum
Lakewood City Schools this fall is unveiling two new science curriculums to elementary students.
‘LaPolitics’ Q&A: Scrutinizing the costs of powering Meta
LaPolitics: The Louisiana Public Service Commission recently voted down its administrative law judge’s order that would have required Meta to disclose how it calculated job projections and electricity needs for its Richland Parish data center project. Is the PSC overruling an ALJ unusual? Logan Burke, executive director with the Alliance for Affordable Energy: The commission […]
The Fatal Flaw of 911
A new book argues that as long as 911 defaults to police, people in mental health crises will be at risk for violent confrontations.
GOP states have made it harder to vote. The changes could swing tight races
GOP lawmakers and officials around the country have enacted voting restrictions that could affect turnout in key races.
Lawmakers Demand Menhaden Cuts Before Chesapeake Bay Science Is Complete, Ignoring Already Struggling Workers
Menhaden Fisheries Coalition warns proposed restrictions could threaten hundreds of jobs held by rural Virginia's largely minority, unionized menhaden workforce
Four fatal flaws that doomed the Dodgers’ bid for a historic three-peat
Winter has come early in Los Angeles this year.
Trump administration sued over accelerated immigration process for migrant kids
A group of attorneys filed a lawsuit Thursday challenging the accelerated immigration process for unaccompanied migrant children, saying the Trump administration’s policies are unlawful.
INTERPOL and WHO sign agreement to strengthen global health and security protection
Framework to support public health and law enforcement cooperation to protect lives worldwide
Tolland warns potential adult entertainment purveyors to follow the laws
TOLLAND, Conn. (WTNH) — The Tolland Town Manager has issued a warning for anyone wanting to reopen an adult entertainment business in the town — follow the laws or they will shut you down. First, i…
Trump invokes executive privilege in Kennedy Center court fight
In a court filing, a lawyer for the White House said information about the president’s management of the center, including efforts to add his name to it, should be off limits.
Wisconsin elections officials issue guidance for handling federal agents at polls
Elections officials in battleground Wisconsin on Thursday approved guidance for local clerks to help them know what to do if federal law enforcement officials show up at the polls on Election Day, as some activists fear might happen.
Lawsuit alleges mental health failures before Montpelier couple allegedly slain by son
The lawsuit says WCMHS workers were notified multiple times that Matthew Gomes was in a mental health crisis.
Hospital's lawsuit alleges patient-poaching by former doc, rival
RWJBarnabas Health is accused of colluding with a doctor and using confidential info to lure patients from Saint Peter’s University Hospital.
Katie Zacharia defends calling herself a lawyer in new interview
White House press secretary Katie Zacharia went on the record Thursday, saying she considered the results of her bar exam "inconsequential."
North Carolina lawmakers highlight health care, grocery costs at Asheville event
With early voting underway in North Carolina, two state representatives stopped in Asheville as part of a national bus tour.
Green Card Processing Backlogs for Refugees and Asylees Could Have Implications for Health Coverage and Care
This data note highlights changes in green card (I-485) application processing for refugees and asylees between fiscal year (FY) 2021 and FY2025, as well as across the first three quarters of FY2025 to FY2026 (since FY2026 data are only available through the third quarter). It discusses the implications of these trends for access to federally funded health coverage following eligibility changes under the 2025 reconciliation law.
Top Agencies and Producers Want Laws Forcing Studios to Devote Half Their Budgets to Indie TV and Movies
The American Entertainment Alliance is pushing for regulation that would help return ownership of series and films back to their creators.
Trump Administration Sues California Over Voter Rolls
The lawsuit is seeking to block the state temporarily from counting mail ballots of voters it claims are likely noncitizens, opening a new front in the administration’s legal fights with election officials.
Former NFL player sues Jefferson Health, claims surgery ‘ended his career'
A former NFL player filed a lawsuit against a Pennsylvania health care system over a surgery that he claims was "unnecessary" and "ended his career."
Justice Dept. sues California, asks court to force state to stop counting 20,000 ballots
The Trump administration asked a federal court to bar California from counting ballots from about 20,000 voters it suspects aren't U.S. citizens. State officials blasted the lawsuit.
Fired FBI agents and analysts sue to regain jobs over Trump files probe
They are calling their terminations unlawful acts of “political retribution"
Hoopaholic’s Gazette: Will Something Wicked This Way Come?
In a week, live from Lawrence, Kansas, Louisville basketball fans will get a sense of what’s to come in the ’26-’27 campaign, without it counting as a W or L. Maybe. Depending on whether Jefferson Circuit Court Judge Brian Edwards issues a ruling, which will tell us — at least for a moment if not […]
I’m Both Elated and Terrified to Hear That Trump’s Administration Is Coming Unstrung
A disastrous new press secretary. Whispers of a new chief of staff. A feud between the president and old lawyers. We have to endure two more years of this?
Scott signs bill targeting cannabis-related businesses ‘breaking the law’
“To be clear, Baltimore is home to legal, regulated cannabis sales. This bill is not about businesses that are following the law,” Scott said.
Lawsuit claims owner of Bronzeville apartment complex blocked investor’s exit
An investor in the massive Lake Meadows complex wants out and alleges financial misconduct by the property's owner, Antheus Capital.
In 100th Trump lawsuit, California challenges ICE courthouse arrests
California sued the Trump administration for the 100th time, challenging the growing practice of ICE agents arresting people for civil immigration violations at or near courthouses.
German MPs rebuke AfD during genocide debate
The events took place more than 120 years ago, but their consequences are still felt today: Over two days, German lawmakers have been debating their country's colonial crimes in present-day Namibia.
Bipartisan U.S. lawmakers criticize slowing of Starlink in Ukraine
On Wednesday, Ukraine reported its drones losing speed after sudden and unannounced restrictions on its battlefield use of Starlink
Bipartisan U.S. lawmakers criticize slowing of Starlink in Ukraine
On Wednesday, Ukraine reported its drones losing speed after sudden and unannounced restrictions on its battlefield use of Starlink
A paycheck for lawmakers is on the ballot
New York state legislators make $142,000 a year. New Hampshire state representatives and senators make $100. Legislators in 47 other states are paid a yearly salary in between those two
Katie Zacharia did not pass the bar exam, senior administration official says
A Trump administration official argued that the White House press secretary could technically be considered a “lawyer.” That argument has been disputed by legal experts.
Scouting America honors Delaware business leader as organization builds new momentum
WILMINGTON, Del. — When Delaware business and community leaders gather Thursday evening, Oct. 15, to recognize Rodger Levenson as Scouting America's 2026
Ex-Florida congressman Matt Gaetz accused in suit of sex trafficking young women
The lawsuit alleges the two women were supplied with drugs, traveled across state lines and were paid to have sex with men, including Gaetz.
Suspicious letters with 'unknown substance' sent to election offices
Federal law enforcement is investigating letters containing suspicious substances mailed to various addresses nationwide, including several election offices, officials said Oct. 15.
Claim that Trump press secretary Katie Zacharia is a lawyer comes under scrutiny
The new White House press secretary is facing mounting questions about her background and resume as she transitions into her role as the public face of the Trump administration.
Wisconsin elections officials issue guidance for handling federal agents at polls
Elections officials in battleground Wisconsin have approved guidance for local clerks to help them know what to do if federal law enforcement officials show up at the polls on Election
Wisconsin elections officials issue guidance for handling federal agents at polls
Elections officials in battleground Wisconsin have approved guidance for local clerks to help them know what to do if federal law enforcement officials show up at the polls on Election
The problem with Katie Zacharia calling herself a lawyer
Two watchdog groups filed complaints with the California bar, asking it to investigate whether she violated the law by calling herself a lawyer.
Wyandotte entertainment venue gets next-door companion
“When the space became available right next door, it was a no-brainer to take it over,” owner Julie Law explains. “It’s another music venue, and we’re super excited about it. We definitely wanted to keep it…
CAA, WME and UTA Lead Coalition Pushing for Law to Force Streamers to Spend Half Their Budgets on Indie Productions
CAA, UTA and WME have joined forces as founding members of the American Entertainment Alliance -- which among other things wants U.S. legislation to force streaming providers like Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max and Disney+ to spend at least 50% of their budgets on independent productions.
Maksim Chmerkovskiy tells “DWTS” judge Carrie Ann Inaba to ‘get some consistency’ after criticism of sister-in-law Jenna Johnson
Inaba called out Johnson for including a lift in her routine with Harry Shum Jr. on Super Bowl Night.
State lawmakers react to IDHS decision to preserve some beds at Choate Mental Health Center
Illinois State Senators Terri Bryant (R-Murpysboro) and Paul Jacobs (R-Pomona) say a new plan for Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna does not go far enough.
Clinton Policy Institute outlines maternal health solutions for states
Health Care Clinton Policy Institute outlines maternal health solutions for states It’s the first major report from the project, which launched in July to foster nonpartisan policies to improve the wellbeing of children and families. Stephanie Akin 10:00 AM, Oct 15, 2026 Dr. Jacob Lenz performs an ultrasound at the Oklahoma State University obstetrics and gynecology clinic in Tulsa, Okla., on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Mary Conlon) The Clinton Policy Institute is calling on states to lead efforts to curb maternal mortality, releasing a 61-page playbook Thursday highlighting successful policies that could be adopted nationwide. The playbook is the first major report from the Clinton Foundation’s project, which launched in July to foster nonpartisan state and local policies to improve the wellbeing of children and families. “Eighty percent of maternal deaths are preventable, and we know what works,” CPI Chair Jennifer Klein said. “The solutions are well established and evidence-based.” CPI’s mission is to convene political leaders from both parties, policy experts, state officials and other stakeholders to explore solutions to longstanding problems. “What we aim to do is bring together people who are deeply engaged, but may not be meeting together in the same room,” Klein said, noting that state policymakers might not always be aware of what their peers are doing in other states. In May, CPI brought together lawmakers from Virginia and Pennsylvania, two of the 14 states that have passed bipartisan maternal health “Momnibus” packages modeled after a comprehensive federal proposal that has repeatedly stalled, called the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act. Other participants included Dr. Mona Hanna, founder of Rx Kids, a Michigan program that provides direct cash allowances to pregnant women and infants. Pennsylvania Rep. Morgan Cephas, who was part of the group, said she learned about funding opportunities she hadn’t come across during her decade in the Legislature. “As legislators we can issue grants, we can pass legislation, we can move policy, but we want to ensure that funding opportunities and programs that are tackling this issue are sustainable,” Cephas said. The playbook outlines broad areas where state policy can make a difference, such as allowing Medicaid to pay for doulas and remote patient monitoring, and using federal and private grant funding to pay for home visits to pregnant and postpartum women. For each category, it highlights innovative programs that can serve as models, with examples of specific actions state lawmakers and governors’ offices can take. Those include the Rx Kids model, which gets funding from the Michigan state budget; Pennsylvania’s Healthy Moms Vibrant Futures strategic action plan, emphasizing equity-centered maternal care, regional collaboration, Medicaid innovation, and workforce development that was launched this year with more than 160 stakeholders; and Kansas’s Bridging Plan, which reserves three slots and provides at least $26,000 in loan forgiveness for obstetric residents who commit to practicing in rural or underserved communities for 36 months. CPI emphasizes that its work is nonpartisan. Klein, the director of the White House Gender Policy Council under former President Joe Biden, acknowledged that CPI also takes positions on abortion, Medicaid funding, and the need to address the economic and social drivers of poor health, which might rankle some conservatives. “We don’t shy away from talking about those things that we think are part and parcel of the maternal health crisis in this country,” Klein said. “That said, there are so many policies that are both evidence-based and have been tried successfully in both red and blue states, and people can see that they can have real impact.” She pointed to the federal option to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to 12 months that was made available during the Biden administration and has since been adopted by every state but Arkansas. Other initiatives embraced across party lines include Medicaid coverage for midwives and doulas, as well as “bundled” payments for prenatal and postpartum care. That alternative payment model, pioneered in states such as Arkansas, Colorado and Tennessee, incentivizes fixed fees to cover all healthcare services associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Advocates say it promotes more coordination among caregivers, discourages unnecessary interventions, and expands postpartum support. In addition to maternal health, the initiative is also focused on addressing family economic security, children’s well-being, and democracy and civic resilience.
Paris Paloma shares spellbinding set at The Sylvee
Paris Paloma performed at The Sylvee as a part of “The Fatal Flaw” tour, singing to themes of feminism, toxic masculinity and shared female resilience
Tax Relief on Losses Stimulates Business Risk-Taking, OECD Says
Countries that provide limited tax relief to loss-making companies risk stifling entrepreneurial risk-taking and the creation of new businesses, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development said.
US lawmakers unveil bill to hold Wall Street’s ‘Epstein-connected’ bosses to account
Move comes as Senator Elizabeth Warren condemns Barclays response to questions over ex-boss’s ties to sex offender
Massachusetts can protect data privacy without hurting small businesses
As lawmakers debate the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act, they should be careful not to adopt an approach that unintentionally makes it harder and more expensive for local businesses to compete, grow, and innovate online.
Business Briefs: Oct. 16, 2026
Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin P.C. named Legacy Law Firm SPRINGFIELD — Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin P.C. has been named a 2026 “Legacy” Law Firm by Mass Lawyers Weekly, recognizing firms that have been in practice for 25 years or more and have demonstrated a sustained commitment to serving their communities. Founded in 1969, Shatz, Schwartz […]
Social Security announces 2027 cost of living boost for recipients
The Social Security Administration projects a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment for older adults and people with disabilities starting in 2027. Some recipients say it won't offset rising prices. This adjustment means $75 extra per month for the nearly 72 million Social Security beneficiaries and about 7.3 million Supplemental Security Income recipients. Inflation continues to pressure household budgets and savings, and some older Americans feel the increase isn't enough. The Social Security Administration faces a looming bankruptcy date if a funding shortfall isn't addressed by Congress. Lawmakers have proposed measures to replenish the trust funds, including lifting the payroll tax cap to generate substantial revenue.
'Cambrian Explosion': Freshfields Partners Discuss Spinning Out AI Business, Market Reacts
Market figures react to the news, reported by the FT, that the firm is considering carving out Freshfields Lab, its AI unit.
‘The money, not the message.’ Idaho debates how to manage free speech in elections
In the thick of election season, Idaho’s secretary of state held a Free Speech Summit for state officials and lawmakers.
Why health systems are putting big bucks behind family caregivers
CARE Act laws require hospitals to provide training and information to family members caring for patients at home.
Va. lawmakers, Spanberger grapple with loss of federal healthcare funds for trans youth
Federal Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program money can no longer be used for certain gender-affirming care to young people in Virginia and other states, after a new U.S. Department of Health and Human Services rule took effect on Oct. 13.
Jim Jordan is quietly laying the groundwork for a run at GOP leader, sources say
When House Speaker Mike Johnson decided in September to send lawmakers home early to their districts ahead of the midterm elections, House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan quietly made clear that he would have handled the situation differently, according to a source close to Jordan.
The Politics of Retrieval: Accessing the Backstage of Judicial AI
--Estefânia Maria de Queiroz Barboza, Constitutional Law Professor, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR); Gustavo Buss, PhD Candidate, Federal University of Pa
Katie Zacharia Is Trump’s New Press Secretary. But Is She a Lawyer?
Katie Zacharia told The New York Times that the confusion over her legal credentials was the result of one big misunderstanding.
Trump press secretary Katie Zacharia faces scrutiny over claims she’s a lawyer
China’s notoriously difficult National Unified Legal Professional Qualification Examination can only be taken by Chinese citizens
Trump press secretary Katie Zacharia faces scrutiny over claims she’s a lawyer
China’s notoriously difficult National Unified Legal Professional Qualification Examination can only be taken by Chinese citizens
Trump press secretary Katie Zacharia faces scrutiny over claims she’s a lawyer
China’s notoriously difficult National Unified Legal Professional Qualification Examination can only be taken by Chinese citizens
Bay Area Science Festival set for Saturday; free event to feature games, robots, animals and experiments
13th annual gathering at UC San Francisco Mission Bay Campus showcases innovation and research, with a focus on kids
Idaho lawmakers tee up bill to reform prior authorization, and more health insurance issues
A panel of Idaho lawmakers that studied issues in the health insurance market formalized plans to draft legislation on a range of issues.
Ohio Attorney General sues 2 home-improvement companies, including Lorain County business
The Ohio Attorney General's Office filed separate lawsuits against two Ohio home-improvement companies, including one based in Lorain County.
Rep. Kevin Mannix faces political newcomer in fight to hold onto Oregon swing seat
A business law attorney and a safety professional with different levels of political experience are seeking to win an Oregon swing district.
Energy Department announces 2026 Ernest Orlando Lawrence Award winners
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright announced that Fermilab's Chris Polly was one of nine recipients of the prestigious Ernest Orlando Lawrence Award for exceptional contributions to research and development supporting the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) missions in science, energy and national security.
Lawyers for Federal Reserve's Lisa Cook say White House hearing set up by Trump is 'biased'
Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook's lawyers say that a committee set up by the White House last week to investigate an accusation against her is “demonstrably biased," though they did not close the door on the possibility that she would appear before the panel.
Rep. Ilhan Omar's phone seized and relatives subpoenaed in criminal probe, AP source says
Federal authorities investigating Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar have seized the Democratic lawmaker’s phone and have issued more than a dozen grand jury subpoenas, including to some of her relatives, according to a person briefed on the probe.
Arizona employee health insurance costs are 'out of control,' lawmakers say
Rising healthcare costs and limited state budget reserves could lead to higher employee premiums, greater cost-sharing and other changes to the plan.
1 in 5 Lawyers Rate Their Mental Health as 'Fair' or 'Poor,' Illinois Study Finds
Nearly 27% of lawyers surveyed by the Illinois Lawyers’ Assistance Program said they have daily or weekly feelings of stress regarding work, and 66% believe their workplaces harm their mental health, physical health or overall wellness and would consider leaving.
Brooklyn Bar Association highlights detailed business practices, supportive firm culture as keys to firm success
The Brooklyn Bar Association hosted a virtual CLE program on Oct. 14 centered on how law firms can improve their business practices through LEAP, a legal
Lawyers for Fed’s Lisa Cook call White House hearing set up by Trump ‘biased’
Her lawyer said she would not be able to attend a hearing Nov. 5 because she will be attending policy meetings in Europe
Lawyers for Fed’s Lisa Cook call White House hearing set up by Trump ‘biased’
Her lawyer said she would not be able to attend a hearing Nov. 5 because she will be attending policy meetings in Europe
Lawyers for Fed’s Lisa Cook call White House hearing set up by Trump ‘biased’
Her lawyer said she would not be able to attend a hearing Nov. 5 because she will be attending policy meetings in Europe
Redwood Public Law Launches Sports, Arts & Entertainment Practice
/PRNewswire/ -- Redwood Public Law LLP today announced the formal launch of its Sports, Arts & Entertainment Practice, bringing together existing experience...
Opinion: ICE is making it harder for local police to do their jobs
Increased ICE operations are “squeezing” local law enforcement officers.
Finding right fit is more important in judicial clerkship hiring than politics, new study says
Law students often assume that politics decide who wins a judicial clerkship, but judges say otherwise, according to a new study based on interviews with 194 federal and state judges.
Boston Mayor Joins Effort to Protect Legal Cannabis in Massachusetts
Mayor Michelle Wu is the latest in a list of a growing number of high-profile figures endorsing the ‘No on 8’ campaign to protect the Commonwealth’s cannabis laws against a prohibitionist-backed ballot Question 8 in the November mid-term election.
Lawrenceville Arts Center launches intimate live music series featuring rising artists
Music fans looking to discover their next favorite artist can find their next live music experience in downtown Lawrenceville with the launch of The Preview, a new intimate concert series
The real problem with Katie Zacharia not actually being a ‘lawyer’
The press secretary is supposed to spin the news, not be the news.
Flightless Jurassic bird was like a carnivorous pheasant with killer claws
An early bird with many dinosaur-like features discovered in China seems to have been a fast-running, land-based carnivore with killer claws.
Despite tough talk from Abbott and Paxton, Texas penalties for data center violations are light
Texas officials are promising tougher enforcement on data centers, but the existing law may offer limited leverage over the industry that has largely failed to report its water use.
SEC opposes LSU bid to end lawsuit - Dispute remains 'live'
The SEC is opposing LSU's request to dismiss the conference's lawsuit against the university and its officials, saying a live controversy still exists between the parties.
New NASA data shows why scientists struggle to model Western rivers
New satellite observations show that some global river models struggle to account for dams, reservoirs and other human influences, raising questions about their reliability for water planning.
New Board Members and Leadership Team at OH Foundation
The Oswego Health Foundation has announced the appointment of two new members to its board of directors, along with new officers who will lead the foundation as it continues its mission of strengthening healthcare in the communities served by Oswego Health. Joining the board are: [caption id=attachment_11136 align=alignleft width=180] Susan Brannan Cole[/caption] • Susan Brannan Cole. She is a public affairs, marketing and communications leader with more than 20 years of experience. She serves as regional manager of external affairs for National Grid in Central New York. Cole also brings significant healthcare communications experience, having spent several years at Upstate Medical University in media relations, digital strategy and public engagement. She previously held leadership roles in communications and government affairs at Novelis and Constellation in Oswego. A graduate of SUNY Oswego, she is passionate about strengthening Central New York communities and supporting initiatives that improve quality of life across the region. [caption id=attachment_11129 align=alignright width=150] Rich Baldwin[/caption] • Rich Baldwin. He serves as director of marketing and business development at King + King Architects, where he leads the firm’s marketing, communications and business development initiatives. Baldwin has remained actively involved in community and nonprofit organizations, including previously serving on the board of regents at Le Moyne College. He has also supported community initiatives through organizations including the Onondaga Historical Association and Father Champlin’s Guardian Angel Society. New leadership at the foundation are: • William W. “Bill” Crist will chair the Oswego Health Foundation. He brings more than 40 years of experience in education, from classroom teacher to superintendent of schools. He retired in 2023 from the Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Syracuse and remains deeply engaged in the community through numerous nonprofit and volunteer boards. He also serves as chairman of the Sanctuary Advisory Board for the proposed Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary. • Heather Sunser will serve as vice chair. Sunser is a financial services practice group leader at Barclay Damon LLP, where she focuses primarily on real estate law, institutional lending, land use and municipal compliance. A graduate of Syracuse University College of Law, she is also active in community service, volunteering with Vera House Legal Clinic, Habitat for Humanity and the Volunteer Lawyers Project of Onondaga County. She serves on the Board of Trustees of the Onondaga County Bar Foundation. • Darcy Antonucci will be the foundation’s treasurer. Antonucci serves as comptroller for Broadwell Hospitality Group, overseeing the financial functions of nine growing corporations as well as the company’s administrative departments. She brings extensive experience in finance, human resources and business operations, along with a strong record of community leadership. Antonucci has served on the Compass Credit Union board of directors and is an active member of the Trinity Catholic School Board. She has also been involved with the Oswego Health Foundation Gala Committee since 2018. • Attorney Rachael A. Dator will serve as secretary. Dator serves as administrator of the Oswego County Assigned Counsel Program, where she oversees grant funding, budgeting and program operations. With more than a decade of legal experience, she has served as an assistant district attorney, court attorney and legal counsel to municipalities and social services organizations. Dator brings extensive knowledge of law, governance and nonprofit operations to her role with the foundation.
BUSINESS UPDATE: All About Cannabis
SUNY Oswego’s cannabis studies prepares for growing business opportunities By Mary Beth Roach [caption id=attachment_11114 align=alignright width=383] Marthinus (Martin) Koen is associate professor of criminal justice and cannabis studies at SUNY Oswego. He and the chair of the SUNY Oswego’s Criminal Justice Department, Roger Guy, created the program.[/caption] As the cannabis industry in New York state continues to grow, so do the business opportunities. New York’s legal cannabis market is projected to hit $3 billion in annual sales this year and more than 600 licensed dispensaries are operating across the state, according to budpedia.com. It’s estimated that New York will add about 16,160 new cannabis jobs in 2026, according to the 2026 U.S. Cannabis Jobs Report. SUNY Oswego, realizing the potential, now offers two programs to acquaint both matriculated and non matriculated students with aspects of this multi-billion-dollar business. Its cannabis studies microcredential came out last year and a minor was introduced this fall. The microcredential allows traditional students to add electives to their degree. Students who are not enrolled in the college can sign up to take classes to learn more about the field, growing the crop and managing or opening a dispensary, according to Marthinus (Martin) Koen, associate professor of criminal justice and cannabis studies at SUNY Oswego. The classes are designed to give those who wish to pursue business opportunities in the field a much broader understanding of cannabis and a more overall perspective of the various aspects of running a business, such as supply chain management, customer service and best practices. “When you’re trying to market it, when you’re trying to make sales, you’re understanding will be a lot more vast and nuanced,” he said. “The last 10 years especially, the hard science on cannabis increased and we have a lot more nuanced understanding right now that hasn’t yet permeated the pop culture,” he added. Koen’s team is also hoping to develop an independent study class that will help somebody who wants to apply for a license. That the classes fill up quickly should come as no surprise. “I think there’s a lot of people who are excited about it because it’s a new industry,” he said and they see an opportunity to make some money. Matriculated students may look at it as fun to learn about and stack on top of their existing major or minor. According to the college’s website, students interested in a microcredential would take cannabis law and policy and cultivation of cannabis, along with two other electives. For the first elective they could select either the economics of cannabis or manufacturing, distribution, and logistics of cannabis; and the second elective would be either cannabis science, analysis, and well-being or cannabis and society. The idea for a microcredential in cannabis studies at SUNY Oswego began in 2023, Koen said, as SUNY statewide was advocating for these types of initiatives. Koen and the chair of the SUNY Oswego’s Criminal Justice Department, Roger Guy, began brainstorming on ideas. Catching their attention was the legalization of full recreational marijuana use in New York state in 2021 and the problem-riddled rollout of the state’s Office of Cannabis Management. Guy and Koen created a Criminal Justice Elective called CRJ 420, called cannabis and society, to see if there was any interest. It shouldn’t surprise anyone that there was interest —a lot of it. Further discussions led to the microcredential, cannabis studies, which incorporated science, business and anthropological perspectives, Koen said. They were allowed to create their own prefixes for the classes, such as CAN 310; CAN 320; and CAN 420. Yes, the 420 was intentional — it’s a slang term and symbol used to refer to cannabis consumption and counterculture — but it’s also meant to reflect that the course, being on the 400 level, is “very academically involved,” Koen explained. The term 420 was coined in 1971 by a group of California high school students as a secret code to meet at 4:20 p.m. at a campus landmark to search for an abandoned cannabis crop nearby. The phrase has evolved, to say the least. It is now associated with cannabis use worldwide. For more information, visit ww1.oswego.edu/academics/microcredentials/cannabis-studies.