Search

Air Plan Approval; AK; Regional Haze State Implementation Plan

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved Alaska's State Implementation Plan for the second implementation period concerning regional haze. This final rule is effective April 2, 2026. It pertains to air quality regulations under 40 CFR 52.

GAO Report: VA Not Fully Implementing Caregiver Support Recommendations

A GAO report released March 2, 2026, found the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has not fully implemented GAO's recommendations to improve access to community care and caregiver support programs. The report highlights ongoing issues with timely appointment scheduling, referral coordination, and communication, despite legislative mandates from the Dole Act.

GAO: SBA Should Improve Data Sharing Efficiency with IRS

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report recommending that the Small Business Administration (SBA) take steps to make data sharing with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) more efficient. The report highlights inefficiencies in verifying taxpayer consent for data sharing, suggesting direct data receipt or technological improvements could prevent fraud and improper payments.

GAO Report on Federal Agency Whistleblower Protections

A GAO report highlights that federal agencies employ various methods to encourage and protect whistleblowers, such as confidentiality and award programs. The report notes challenges like processing high volumes of reports and addresses concerns about overly broad non-disclosure agreements impacting employees' ability to report wrongdoing.

GAO: HHS Guidance on State Congregate Care Spending

The GAO has issued guidance recommending that HHS provide clearer details on when states can apply exemptions to the 14-day limit for congregate care spending under the Family First Act. This aims to ensure consistent application of exemptions, particularly for youth at risk of sex trafficking, and address states' varying interpretations of funding rules.

GAO Report on Animal Drug Incentives and Unmet Needs

The GAO released a report highlighting a lack of FDA-approved animal drugs for minor species and rare conditions, despite existing incentives. The report identifies high development costs and limited markets as key barriers and suggests FDA develop a benefit-risk assessment for alternative approaches to drug approval.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

The White House announced that eleven nominations have been sent to the Senate for consideration. These nominations span various government roles, including judges, ambassadors, and agency directors. The nominations were formally sent on March 2, 2026.

Presidential Message on Read Across America Day

The White House issued a message from the President and First Lady celebrating Read Across America Day on March 2, 2026. The message highlights the importance of reading and literacy, referencing a $256 million grant from the Department of Education to strengthen reading in classrooms.

First Lady Addresses UN Security Council on Peace Through Education

First Lady Melania Trump addressed the U.N. Security Council on March 2, 2026, during the U.S. presidency, advocating for peace through education and the democratization of knowledge. She emphasized the role of education in fostering understanding, tolerance, and enduring peace.

Presidential Message on Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month – The White House

Presidential Message on Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month – The White House