US Federal

SEC Bars Ricardi Celicourt for Unregistered Broker Activities

The SEC has barred Ricardi Celicourt from association with any broker or dealer and from participating in any penny stock offering. This action follows findings that Celicourt acted as an unregistered broker, facilitating the sale of unregistered securities for Royal Bengal Logistics, Inc. and receiving over $517,000 in compensation.

FTC and States Secure $100M Judgment Against Walmart for Deceptive Earnings Claims

The FTC and 11 states have secured a $100 million judgment against Walmart to settle allegations of deceptive earnings claims made to delivery drivers in its Spark Driver program. The company allegedly misled drivers about base pay, incentives, and tips, causing drivers to lose tens of millions of dollars.

S.2651 ROAD to Housing Act of 2025 Introduced

Senator Tim Scott introduced the ROAD to Housing Act of 2025 (S.2651) in the 119th Congress. The bill has been placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Further details on the bill's content and potential impact are pending.

Housing for the 21st Century Act - H.R.6644

The House of Representatives passed the Housing for the 21st Century Act (H.R.6644), which revises federal housing programs. Key provisions include expanding financing for affordable housing, modifying HUD's HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and excluding veterans' disability benefits from VASH program income calculations. The bill has moved to the Senate for consideration.

USITC Investigates Economic Impact of Revoking PNTR for China Products

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has launched an investigation into the economic impact of revoking permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) for China. The investigation will examine effects on the U.S. economy and industry over a six-year period, with a report due by August 21, 2026.

USITC Investigates Chinese Biotech State Support and Pricing

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has launched a fact-finding investigation into Chinese state support and pricing practices in the biotechnology sector. The investigation aims to assess the impact on U.S. industry competitiveness and market share, with a report expected by January 22, 2027.

Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026

Congress has enacted the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, providing funding for various government departments and agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026. The act details appropriations across multiple divisions, including Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Financial Services, and National Security.

Bankruptcy Administration Improvement Act of 2025

The Bankruptcy Administration Improvement Act of 2025, enacted on February 6, 2026, amends titles 11 and 28 of the US Code. It modifies compensation for chapter 7 bankruptcy trustees and extends the term of temporary bankruptcy judge offices.

Ending Improper Payments to Deceased People Act

Congress has enacted the Ending Improper Payments to Deceased People Act, Public Law 119-77, effective February 10, 2026. The Act amends the Social Security Act to improve coordination between federal and state agencies and the Do Not Pay working system to prevent improper payments to deceased individuals.

Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act Enacted

Congress has enacted the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act, establishing a time capsule to commemorate the United States' semiquincentennial. The Architect of the Capitol is tasked with its creation, with contents to be determined by congressional leadership.