New jersey mayors warn of funding risks after trump targets sanctuary cities
New Jersey mayors are expressing deep concern following President Donald Trump’s announcement that his administration plans to terminate federal funding for sanctuary cities and states that resist his immigration policies. The move, which is expected to take effect on February 1, could have wide-ranging consequences for several municipalities across the state and has renewed debate over the balance of power between federal authority and local governance. New Jersey is home to multip
New jersey mayors warn of funding risks after trump targets sanctuary cities
New Jersey mayors are expressing deep concern following President Donald Trump’s announcement that his administration plans to terminate federal funding for sanctuary cities and states that resist his immigration policies. The move, which is expected to take effect on February 1, could have wide-ranging consequences for several municipalities across the state and has renewed debate over the balance of power between federal authority and local governance. New Jersey is home to multip
San Francisco leaders push expanded court-ordered treatment to address mental health crisis
San Francisco state and city leaders announced a proposed legislative change Monday aimed at expanding the use of court-ordered assisted outpatient treatment as part of an effort to confront the city’s ongoing mental health crisis. The announcement was made during a morning press conference outside San Francisco City Hall, where officials described the proposal as a significant shift in how treatment for severe mental illness is handled in California. Mayor Daniel Lurie joined mem
San Francisco leaders push expanded court-ordered treatment to address mental health crisis
San Francisco state and city leaders announced a proposed legislative change Monday aimed at expanding the use of court-ordered assisted outpatient treatment as part of an effort to confront the city’s ongoing mental health crisis. The announcement was made during a morning press conference outside San Francisco City Hall, where officials described the proposal as a significant shift in how treatment for severe mental illness is handled in California. Mayor Daniel Lurie joined mem
IRS announces Jan. 26 start for 2026 tax filing season amid major law changes
The Internal Revenue Service has announced that the 2026 tax filing season will officially begin on Monday, Jan. 26, giving taxpayers the green light to submit their 2025 individual income tax returns. The agency expects to process approximately 164 million returns during the upcoming season, with the vast majority filed electronically. Officials say new tax law provisions could lower tax liabilities for some filers and potentially increase refund amounts, while operational changes may alter
IRS announces Jan. 26 start for 2026 tax filing season amid major law changes
The Internal Revenue Service has announced that the 2026 tax filing season will officially begin on Monday, Jan. 26, giving taxpayers the green light to submit their 2025 individual income tax returns. The agency expects to process approximately 164 million returns during the upcoming season, with the vast majority filed electronically. Officials say new tax law provisions could lower tax liabilities for some filers and potentially increase refund amounts, while operational changes may alter
Trump drug pricing deals seen as limited relief for most U.S. patients
President Donald Trump’s recently announced agreements with pharmaceutical companies are expected to have a limited effect on what most Americans pay for prescription drugs, according to health policy experts who say the scope and structure of the deals leave many patients unaffected. Since Sept. 30, the Trump administration has reached agreements with 14 drugmakers in exchange for relie
Trump drug pricing deals seen as limited relief for most U.S. patients
President Donald Trump’s recently announced agreements with pharmaceutical companies are expected to have a limited effect on what most Americans pay for prescription drugs, according to health policy experts who say the scope and structure of the deals leave many patients unaffected. Since Sept. 30, the Trump administration has reached agreements with 14 drugmakers in exchange for relie
New Insurance Laws In India: Will Claim Settlements Really Improve For Policyholders
India has ushered in a new phase of insurance regulation with Parliament clearing the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025, a move that comes at a time when trust between insurers and policyholders is increasingly strained. For millions of Indians, insurance is ultimately judged not by policy documents or premium receipts but by the ease and fairness of claim settlement. Delays, repeated document requests, late-stage exclusions, and opaque rejections have long plag
New Insurance Laws In India: Will Claim Settlements Really Improve For Policyholders
India has ushered in a new phase of insurance regulation with Parliament clearing the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025, a move that comes at a time when trust between insurers and policyholders is increasingly strained. For millions of Indians, insurance is ultimately judged not by policy documents or premium receipts but by the ease and fairness of claim settlement. Delays, repeated document requests, late-stage exclusions, and opaque rejections have long plag
China-linked cyber operation breached US House staff email systems
Chinese intelligence services have penetrated email systems used by staff members working for key committees in the United States House of Representatives, according to officials familiar with the matter, marking one of the most significant congressional cyber intrusions disclosed in recent years. The operation, known internally as Salt Typhoon, is described as part of a long-running cyber-espionage campaign attributed to China’s Ministry of State Security. Sources with knowledge of the investigation said the breach affected email accounts used by congressional staff supporting the House China Committee, as well as aides associated with the Foreign Affairs Committee, the Intelligence Committee, and the Armed Services Committee. The unauthorized access was discovered in December, prompting federal authorities to begin a broader review of congressional digital security practices and potential exposure of sensitive communications. Officials emphasized that the compromised accounts belonged to staffers rather than elected lawmakers, and it remains unclear whether the personal email accounts of members of Congress were accessed during the intrusion. Nonetheless, the targeting of committees responsible for national security, foreign policy, and intelligence oversight has raised concerns about the scale and intent of the operation. Investigators are continuing to assess what data may have been viewed or extracted and whether the intrusion enabled further access to internal government systems. Salt Typhoon is believed to be part of a sustained cyber campaign that has targeted US communications infrastructure for several years. According to individuals familiar with the operation, the tools and methods linked to the campaign have allowed Chinese intelligence to exploit vulnerabilities in telecommunications networks, providing access to unencrypted phone calls, text messages, and voicemail traffic across the United States. In certain circumstances, the same infrastructure has reportedly been used to gain entry into email systems. Security officials have also indicated that communications involving senior US government figures may have been intercepted as part of this broader effort, underscoring the persistent nature of the threat. While the full scope of the intercepted material has not been publicly detailed, authorities view the campaign as a strategic intelligence-gathering effort rather than a short-term or isolated attack. The incident highlights ongoing challenges facing US institutions as foreign intelligence agencies increasingly rely on cyber tools to collect information. Lawmakers and security experts have repeatedly warned that congressional offices, which often operate with limited technical resources compared with executive branch agencies, can present attractive targets for sophisticated adversaries seeking insight into policy deliberations and legislative priorities. Federal agencies responsible for cybersecurity and counterintelligence are coordinating with congressional officials to strengthen defenses, review access controls, and improve monitoring of digital systems. The breach is expected to intensify calls for additional investment in cybersecurity protections for legislative offices and for closer cooperation between Congress and national security agencies in responding to advanced cyber threats. As investigations continue, officials have stressed that the episode serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of cyber espionage and the need for constant vigilance in protecting sensitive government communications.
China-linked cyber operation breached US House staff email systems
Chinese intelligence services have penetrated email systems used by staff members working for key committees in the United States House of Representatives, according to officials familiar with the matter, marking one of the most significant congressional cyber intrusions disclosed in recent years. The operation, known internally as Salt Typhoon, is described as part of a long-running cyber-espionage campaign attributed to China’s Ministry of State Security. Sources with knowledge of the investigation said the breach affected email accounts used by congressional staff supporting the House China Committee, as well as aides associated with the Foreign Affairs Committee, the Intelligence Committee, and the Armed Services Committee. The unauthorized access was discovered in December, prompting federal authorities to begin a broader review of congressional digital security practices and potential exposure of sensitive communications. Officials emphasized that the compromised accounts belonged to staffers rather than elected lawmakers, and it remains unclear whether the personal email accounts of members of Congress were accessed during the intrusion. Nonetheless, the targeting of committees responsible for national security, foreign policy, and intelligence oversight has raised concerns about the scale and intent of the operation. Investigators are continuing to assess what data may have been viewed or extracted and whether the intrusion enabled further access to internal government systems. Salt Typhoon is believed to be part of a sustained cyber campaign that has targeted US communications infrastructure for several years. According to individuals familiar with the operation, the tools and methods linked to the campaign have allowed Chinese intelligence to exploit vulnerabilities in telecommunications networks, providing access to unencrypted phone calls, text messages, and voicemail traffic across the United States. In certain circumstances, the same infrastructure has reportedly been used to gain entry into email systems. Security officials have also indicated that communications involving senior US government figures may have been intercepted as part of this broader effort, underscoring the persistent nature of the threat. While the full scope of the intercepted material has not been publicly detailed, authorities view the campaign as a strategic intelligence-gathering effort rather than a short-term or isolated attack. The incident highlights ongoing challenges facing US institutions as foreign intelligence agencies increasingly rely on cyber tools to collect information. Lawmakers and security experts have repeatedly warned that congressional offices, which often operate with limited technical resources compared with executive branch agencies, can present attractive targets for sophisticated adversaries seeking insight into policy deliberations and legislative priorities. Federal agencies responsible for cybersecurity and counterintelligence are coordinating with congressional officials to strengthen defenses, review access controls, and improve monitoring of digital systems. The breach is expected to intensify calls for additional investment in cybersecurity protections for legislative offices and for closer cooperation between Congress and national security agencies in responding to advanced cyber threats. As investigations continue, officials have stressed that the episode serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of cyber espionage and the need for constant vigilance in protecting sensitive government communications.
India seeks more details from X on Grok AI obscene content action
The Union government has sought additional information from social media platform X regarding the steps taken to address obscene and sexually explicit content linked to its artificial intelligence tool, Grok, and the measures planned to prevent similar incidents in the future, according to sources familiar with the matter. The request follows a detailed response submitted by the platform, which officials have assessed as insufficient in addressing key regulatory concerns. Sources in
India seeks more details from X on Grok AI obscene content action
The Union government has sought additional information from social media platform X regarding the steps taken to address obscene and sexually explicit content linked to its artificial intelligence tool, Grok, and the measures planned to prevent similar incidents in the future, according to sources familiar with the matter. The request follows a detailed response submitted by the platform, which officials have assessed as insufficient in addressing key regulatory concerns. Sources in
Franklin and Delaware counties adjust 2026 property tax due dates in Ohio
Property owners in central Ohio will see notable changes to property tax payment schedules beginning in 2026, as officials in Franklin County revise due dates and Delaware County advances the start of its billing cycle. County leaders emphasized that the adjustments are designed to improve administrative efficiency and provide taxpayers with more time to prepare payments, without altering the total amounts owed or disrupting existing payment plans.
Franklin and Delaware counties adjust 2026 property tax due dates in Ohio
Property owners in central Ohio will see notable changes to property tax payment schedules beginning in 2026, as officials in Franklin County revise due dates and Delaware County advances the start of its billing cycle. County leaders emphasized that the adjustments are designed to improve administrative efficiency and provide taxpayers with more time to prepare payments, without altering the total amounts owed or disrupting existing payment plans.
Chicago budget takes effect with new taxes on bags, rideshares, betting, and alcohol
Chicago’s newly approved budget is now in effect, introducing a series of tax changes that will be rolled out in stages throughout the year. While some measures began immediately on Jan. 1, others are scheduled to take effect in the coming weeks and months, gradually reshaping costs for consumers and businesses across the city. Among the changes that began with the start of the new year is an increase in the checkout bag tax. Shoppers now pay 15 cents per grocery bag, up from the
Chicago budget takes effect with new taxes on bags, rideshares, betting, and alcohol
Chicago’s newly approved budget is now in effect, introducing a series of tax changes that will be rolled out in stages throughout the year. While some measures began immediately on Jan. 1, others are scheduled to take effect in the coming weeks and months, gradually reshaping costs for consumers and businesses across the city. Among the changes that began with the start of the new year is an increase in the checkout bag tax. Shoppers now pay 15 cents per grocery bag, up from the
Illinois ushers in more than 200 new laws for 2026 affecting healthcare, schools and workers
Illinois is set to enter 2026 with sweeping changes to state policy as more than 200 new laws take effect at the start of the year, touching nearly every aspect of daily life. The legislation approved by lawmakers spans healthcare access, workplace protections, public safety, education standards, insurance coverage and the growing role of artificial intelligence, marking one of the most expansive legislative updates in recent years. Several of the most consequential measures focus o
Illinois ushers in more than 200 new laws for 2026 affecting healthcare, schools and workers
Illinois is set to enter 2026 with sweeping changes to state policy as more than 200 new laws take effect at the start of the year, touching nearly every aspect of daily life. The legislation approved by lawmakers spans healthcare access, workplace protections, public safety, education standards, insurance coverage and the growing role of artificial intelligence, marking one of the most expansive legislative updates in recent years. Several of the most consequential measures focus o
‘No Kings’ protests sweep U.S. as Trump faces backlash amid government shutdown
Thousands of demonstrators across the United States took to the streets on Saturday for the “No Kings” protests, a series of nationwide rallies denouncing President Donald Trump’s leadership and the ongoing government shutdown. The events brought a mix of political activism and festive energy to city squares, parks, and the nation’s capital, as participants called for accountability, the protection of democratic institutions, and an end to what they described as authoritarian tendenci
‘No Kings’ protests sweep U.S. as Trump faces backlash amid government shutdown
Thousands of demonstrators across the United States took to the streets on Saturday for the “No Kings” protests, a series of nationwide rallies denouncing President Donald Trump’s leadership and the ongoing government shutdown. The events brought a mix of political activism and festive energy to city squares, parks, and the nation’s capital, as participants called for accountability, the protection of democratic institutions, and an end to what they described as authoritarian tendenci
Nationwide 'No Kings' protests challenge Trump’s leadership and policies
Thousands of Americans gathered across the country on Saturday as part of the expanding “No Kings” protests, a growing grassroots movement challenging the leadership and policies of President Donald Trump. From major metropolitan centers to smaller towns, citizens voiced their concerns over what they describe as an erosion of democratic principles, rising authoritarianism, and government overreach. The movement’s slogan, “No Kings,” symbolizes a call to uphold the constitutional bal
Nationwide 'No Kings' protests challenge Trump’s leadership and policies
Thousands of Americans gathered across the country on Saturday as part of the expanding “No Kings” protests, a growing grassroots movement challenging the leadership and policies of President Donald Trump. From major metropolitan centers to smaller towns, citizens voiced their concerns over what they describe as an erosion of democratic principles, rising authoritarianism, and government overreach. The movement’s slogan, “No Kings,” symbolizes a call to uphold the constitutional bal
$2.1B Chicago infrastructure funds halted amid federal shutdown
Amid the continuing federal government shutdown, $2.1 billion in funding designated for Chicago’s infrastructure projects has been withheld. The announcement has cast doubt on the future of several major transit improvements that were expected to reshape the city’s transportation network and provide long-term benefits to residents. This freeze on financial support will have direct consequences for projects such as the planned extension of the Red Line, which was designed to reach fur
$2.1B Chicago infrastructure funds halted amid federal shutdown
Amid the continuing federal government shutdown, $2.1 billion in funding designated for Chicago’s infrastructure projects has been withheld. The announcement has cast doubt on the future of several major transit improvements that were expected to reshape the city’s transportation network and provide long-term benefits to residents. This freeze on financial support will have direct consequences for projects such as the planned extension of the Red Line, which was designed to reach fur
Is an Online Bootcamp the Fast-Track Solution for Indian Job Seekers Moving to the USA?
The United States remains one of the top destinations for skilled professionals worldwide, especially for Indian job seekers. With its diverse job market, ample opportunities in technology, business, healthcare, and more, many Indians are making the move to the US in search of better career prospects. But the big question is: What’s the best route to gain the right skills and qualifications to land a job in the US quickly? While traditional college degrees have been the stan
Is an Online Bootcamp the Fast-Track Solution for Indian Job Seekers Moving to the USA?
The United States remains one of the top destinations for skilled professionals worldwide, especially for Indian job seekers. With its diverse job market, ample opportunities in technology, business, healthcare, and more, many Indians are making the move to the US in search of better career prospects. But the big question is: What’s the best route to gain the right skills and qualifications to land a job in the US quickly? While traditional college degrees have been the stan
DC parks department supports college students with new scholarship program
Dozens of student volunteers in Washington, D.C., received a life-changing surprise this week when the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation announced it would award them college scholarships worth up to $5,000 each. The initiative, called "Rec for All: Play It Forward," aims to recognize and reward the dedication of young people who have been actively involved in the department’s sports programs. In total, 45 local college students
DC parks department supports college students with new scholarship program
Dozens of student volunteers in Washington, D.C., received a life-changing surprise this week when the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation announced it would award them college scholarships worth up to $5,000 each. The initiative, called "Rec for All: Play It Forward," aims to recognize and reward the dedication of young people who have been actively involved in the department’s sports programs. In total, 45 local college students
Top Government Jobs to Apply for in 2025 for NRIs in the USA
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) living in the USA, finding the right government job in 2025 is an exciting yet challenging prospect. The opportunities range from roles in the federal and state governments to public-sector undertakings. While the job market continues to evolve, 2025 promises to be a year filled with new openings for NRIs looking for stable, rewarding, and high-paying positions. This article highlights some of the best government job options for NRIs i
Top Government Jobs to Apply for in 2025 for NRIs in the USA
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) living in the USA, finding the right government job in 2025 is an exciting yet challenging prospect. The opportunities range from roles in the federal and state governments to public-sector undertakings. While the job market continues to evolve, 2025 promises to be a year filled with new openings for NRIs looking for stable, rewarding, and high-paying positions. This article highlights some of the best government job options for NRIs i
University of Texas at Dallas restores track and cross country for 2025-26 season
The University of Texas at Dallas has reversed its earlier decision to eliminate its track and field and cross-country programs, providing relief to athletes and the campus community. On Thursday morning, President Richard Benson confirmed that after reviewing the backlash and considering input from both the UT System administration and the university community, the programs will continue through the 2025-26 athletic season. The announcement came as a surprise to many students, particularly t
University of Texas at Dallas restores track and cross country for 2025-26 season
The University of Texas at Dallas has reversed its earlier decision to eliminate its track and field and cross-country programs, providing relief to athletes and the campus community. On Thursday morning, President Richard Benson confirmed that after reviewing the backlash and considering input from both the UT System administration and the university community, the programs will continue through the 2025-26 athletic season. The announcement came as a surprise to many students, particularly t
AI and Robotics Scholarships Indian Teens Should Know About
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics are no longer just futuristic concepts—they are fast becoming a part of everyday life. For Indian teens passionate about building machines, coding, and exploring AI, several authentic opportunities exist to support their growth in this dynamic field. In 2025, the Indian government and leading tech organizations continue to encourage young innovators through contests, learning platforms, and financial support. If you're a student with an interest in
AI and Robotics Scholarships Indian Teens Should Know About
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics are no longer just futuristic concepts—they are fast becoming a part of everyday life. For Indian teens passionate about building machines, coding, and exploring AI, several authentic opportunities exist to support their growth in this dynamic field. In 2025, the Indian government and leading tech organizations continue to encourage young innovators through contests, learning platforms, and financial support. If you're a student with an interest in
Loss of federal science training programs impacts San Jose State students
San Jose State University has suffered a major loss in student research support following the elimination of longstanding federally funded science training programs. For over four decades, these programs provided essential academic, financial, and mentorship support for students pursuing careers in science, particularly those from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The cancellation of this funding creates a significant gap in the pathway to science and research careers,
Loss of federal science training programs impacts San Jose State students
San Jose State University has suffered a major loss in student research support following the elimination of longstanding federally funded science training programs. For over four decades, these programs provided essential academic, financial, and mentorship support for students pursuing careers in science, particularly those from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The cancellation of this funding creates a significant gap in the pathway to science and research careers,
GOP Tax Plan: No Tax on Tips, 5% Remittance Fee, Senior Bonus
House Republicans have unveiled a sweeping new tax proposal dubbed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” aligning with President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign promises. The bill includes major tax breaks for workers, significant penalties for elite educational institutions, and the introduction of a 5% tax on money transfers sent abroad, a move likely to impact immigrant families across the country. The proposed legislation eliminates federal income taxes on tips and o
GOP Tax Plan: No Tax on Tips, 5% Remittance Fee, Senior Bonus
House Republicans have unveiled a sweeping new tax proposal dubbed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” aligning with President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign promises. The bill includes major tax breaks for workers, significant penalties for elite educational institutions, and the introduction of a 5% tax on money transfers sent abroad, a move likely to impact immigrant families across the country. The proposed legislation eliminates federal income taxes on tips and o









