United States

GAO Report on Alaska Tribes' Jurisdiction and Funding Clarity

The GAO released a report highlighting confusion among Alaska Tribes regarding concurrent criminal jurisdiction and eligibility for federal public safety funding. The report recommends the Bureau of Indian Affairs clarify its positions on jurisdiction and establish criteria for new funding agreements to improve transparency.

GAO Report on NIST IP Guidance and Drug Pricing

A GAO report analyzes draft guidance from NIST on exercising march-in rights under the Bayh-Dole Act, specifically considering product price as a factor. The guidance, still in draft as of December 2025, received significant public support for potentially lowering drug prices, though concerns exist about its impact on innovation.

Executive Order on Elemental Phosphorus and Glyphosate Supply

President Biden issued an Executive Order to ensure an adequate domestic supply of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides, citing their critical importance to national defense and agricultural productivity. The order aims to address limited domestic production and reliance on imports.

President Signs H.J.Res. 142 and S. 3705 into Law

The President signed H.J.Res. 142 and S. 3705 into law on February 18, 2026. H.J.Res. 142 nullifies a D.C. tax law, while S. 3705 establishes a congressional time capsule for the U.S. Semiquincentennial.

Presidential Message on Ash Wednesday

The White House issued a presidential message observing Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Lenten season. The message highlights the significance of the day for Christians in the United States and globally, emphasizing themes of prayer, repentance, and faith.

Illinois Executive Order Accelerates New Nuclear Power Generation

Illinois Governor issued Executive Order 2026-01 to accelerate the development of new safe nuclear power generation in the state. This order aims to support clean energy goals by lifting restrictions on new nuclear plants and facilitating their development to meet projected capacity shortfalls.

Alex Lopez Leon v. State of Washington - Personal Restraint Petition

The Washington Court of Appeals Division II has issued an unpublished opinion regarding a personal restraint petition filed by Alex Lopez Leon. The case, docketed as 60505-8, was filed on February 18, 2026, and originated from a Pierce County Superior Court judgment filed on November 19, 2021.

Nixon v. State of Washington - Court of Appeals Opinion

The Washington State Court of Appeals Division II has issued an opinion in the case of Jamie Nixon, Appellant v. State of Washington, Et Al., Respondent. The opinion was filed on February 18, 2026, under docket number 60265-2.

State of Washington v. Jelani Akaeli Dewayne Perry - Criminal Appeal

The Washington Court of Appeals filed an opinion in the case State of Washington v. Jelani Akaeli Dewayne Perry on February 18, 2026. This is an unpublished opinion and should not be cited.

Sidney Hicklin v. State of Washington - Personal Restraint Petition

The Washington Court of Appeals Division II has issued an opinion regarding a personal restraint petition filed by Sidney Hicklin. The case, with docket number 60267-9, concerns a judgment from the Clallam Superior Court dated August 5, 2021.