Schaal v. IAT Insurance Group Inc - Insurance Litigation

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington issued an order on motions to dismiss, compel, and amend in the case of Schaal v. IAT Insurance Group Inc. The filing date was February 13, 2026, with docket number 2:25-cv-00221.

Hammerless Tools LLC v. Clausen - Default Judgment and Injunction

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington granted a motion for default judgment and permanent injunction against defendants Clausen, Inc., AR-TT LLC, and Lilac City, LLC in the case Hammerless Tools LLC et al. v. Clausen et al. The court issued an order on February 13, 2026, in docket number 2:24-cv-00413-SAB.

Scotty D. Brown v. Karen Arnold - Habeas Corpus Dismissal

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington filed an order dismissing the habeas corpus petition of Scotty D. Brown. The court found that the petitioner failed to show cause why his petition should not be dismissed as time-barred under 28 U.S.C. § 2244(d).

Lady Dan'Di'Le'on v. All Public and Private Entities - Court Opinion

The District Court for the Western District of Washington denied a pro se plaintiff's motion for a temporary restraining order in the case Lady Dan'Di'Le'on v. All Public and Private Entities. The court found the motion insufficient even under a liberal construction standard.

Pearson v. Sysco Food Distribution - Order Granting Motion to Dismiss

The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington granted a motion to dismiss the case of Pearson v. Sysco Food Distribution. The plaintiff failed to state a claim, name the correct legal entity, and timely serve the defendants.

JLJ Productions LLC v. Amazon.com Services LLC - Motion to Dismiss Ruling

The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington issued an order in the case JLJ Productions LLC v. Amazon.com Services LLC. The court granted in part and denied in part Amazon's motion to dismiss JLJ's amended complaint regarding an alleged breach of a sponsorship agreement.

Stephen H. Smith v. Ascension Acquisition LLC et al. - Order Denying Motion for Summary Judgment

The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington denied Plaintiff Stephen H. Smith's motion for summary judgment in the case of Smith v. Ascension Acquisition LLC et al. The order addresses claims related to breach of contract and unjust enrichment stemming from business agreements concerning a recovery center facility.

Harrington v. Vineyard Vines LLC - Motion for Reconsideration Denied

The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington denied Vineyard Vines LLC's motion for reconsideration in the case Harrington v. Vineyard Vines LLC. The court found that the defendant's arguments regarding federal preemption were not properly raised and lacked merit.

Colorado Bankruptcy Court: Chapter 13 Plan Confirmation

The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Colorado issued an order regarding the confirmation of a Chapter 13 plan for Courtney Tierra Cantwell. The case involves an objection by the Chapter 13 Trustee concerning the debtor's interest in a jointly owned property.

Colorado Bankruptcy Court Opinion on Rooker-Feldman Doctrine

The US Bankruptcy Court for the District of Colorado issued an opinion denying a motion to reinstate an adversary case and for leave to file an amended complaint. The court addressed the Rooker-Feldman doctrine in the context of state law claims previously litigated in state court.

Colorado Bankruptcy Court: Motion to Dismiss Counterclaim

The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Colorado issued an order on February 9, 2026, granting in part and denying in part a motion to dismiss a counterclaim filed by the State of Colorado against debtor Logan Beck and Acme Revival, Inc. The case involves alleged violations of the Colorado Consumer Protection Act.

Colorado Bankruptcy Court Rules on Motion to Dismiss Fraud Claims

The US Bankruptcy Court for the District of Colorado issued an order on a motion to dismiss fraud claims in bankruptcy case number 25-12572 MER. The court granted in part and denied in part the motion filed by Defendant-Debtor James Costello Turpen against Plaintiffs CHP 1010 McDowell, LLC, et al.

Willie James Atmore v. Bibb County Law Enforcement Center - Case Dismissal

The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia dismissed the case of Willie James Atmore v. Bibb County Law Enforcement Center due to the plaintiff's failure to comply with court orders regarding the signing of his complaint. The dismissal was without prejudice.

M.C.C.C. v. Warden, STEWART DETENTION CENTER - Immigration Habeas Corpus

The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia granted a petitioner's habeas corpus relief, ordering the Stewart Detention Center to provide a bond hearing for an immigration detainee. The court found the detainee was not subject to mandatory detention under the cited statutes.

J.M.G. v. Warden, Stewart Detention Center - Immigration Habeas Corpus

The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia granted a petitioner's habeas corpus relief, ordering the Warden of Stewart Detention Center to provide the detainee with a bond hearing. The court found the detainee was not subject to mandatory detention under the cited statutes.

Sayda Ayala o/b/o E.S.R-M. v. Warden - Habeas Corpus

The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia received an application for habeas corpus relief filed by Sayda Ayala on behalf of E.S.R-M., an individual detained at Stewart Detention Center. The court found insufficient information to grant Ms. Ayala next friend status.

Hagy v. Southern Insurance Company of Virginia - Insurance Dispute

The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia granted Plaintiffs' motion to withdraw admissions and set aside the Defendant's motion for summary judgment in the case of Hagy v. Southern Insurance Company of Virginia. The court denied the defendant's motion without prejudice.

GAO Recommends Improvements for Nonbank Mortgage Lending Oversight

The GAO has released a report highlighting the increasing reliance on nonbank mortgage lenders and the associated risks to the housing market. The report recommends improvements in federal oversight and data collection for these entities.

GAO Report: Social Security Death Data Prevents Federal Payment Errors

A GAO report highlights a successful pilot program that made permanent a law allowing the Department of the Treasury's Do Not Pay system access to the Social Security Administration's full Death Master File. This initiative has prevented millions in improper federal payments, saving taxpayers money.

DOD Missile Tracking System Faces Cost and Technical Challenges

A GAO report highlights significant cost and technical challenges facing the Department of Defense's new missile tracking system. The system, intended to counter emerging threats, is behind schedule and over initial cost estimates, with potential for further delays and increased expenses.

GAO Recommends Improving CPSC Oversight of Children's Products

The GAO has recommended that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) improve its oversight of children's products to better ensure safety from toxic substances like lead. The report highlights areas for improvement in lab oversight and the implementation of a new e-filing system for importers.

GAO Oversight and Congressional Question Answering

The GAO published a blog post on February 12, 2026, detailing how it answers complex questions from members of Congress. The post highlights examples of GAO's work, including estimating fraud in government spending and analyzing the impact of SEC regulations on conflict minerals.

Firm and co-founder pay $1.3M for False Claims Act violations

Firm and co-founder pay $1.3M for False Claims Act violations

DOJ settles AI ad case excluding US workers

DOJ settles AI ad case excluding US workers

USPTO employee agrees to pay $500,000 for conflict-of-interest violations

USPTO employee agrees to pay $500,000 for conflict-of-interest violations

US House Vote on Motion to Recommit Failed

The US House of Representatives voted on a motion to recommit the "Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act." The motion failed with 197 yeas and 208 nays. The vote occurred on February 24, 2026.

House Resolution Vote on Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act

The US House of Representatives passed a resolution on February 24, 2026, by a vote of 208 Aye to 187 No. This resolution provides for the consideration of two bills: H.R. 4626, the Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act, and H.R. 4758, the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act.

GAO Report on COVID-19 and 988 Lifeline Funding Use

A GAO report details the use of $8.5 billion in COVID-19 funding and $1.6 billion for the 988 Lifeline by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The report examines grant awards and recipient spending as of July 2025.

GAO Report on COVID-19 Behavioral Health Support and Grants

The GAO has released a report reviewing how the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported behavioral health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The report details how grantees adapted services and how SAMHSA provided technical assistance and grant flexibilities, including extending project periods for over $32 billion in awarded grants.

H.R. 3617 - Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act

The House Rules Committee has reported H.R. 3617, the Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act. This bill, as amended, will undergo debate and a vote on the House floor. The committee's report and rule provide details on the debate procedures and allowable amendments.

H.R. 2189 - Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act Considered

The US House Rules Committee considered and amended H.R. 2189, the Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act. The committee reported the bill on February 9, 2026, with a closed rule providing for debate and a motion to recommit.

SAVE America Act Reported by House Rules Committee

The House Rules Committee reported the SAVE America Act (S. 1383) on February 10, 2026. The committee adopted a closed rule for the bill, which waives points of order against its consideration and provisions, and allows for one motion to commit. The House agreed to the rule on February 11, 2026.

H.R. 4626 - Home Appliance Protection and Affordability Act

The US House of Representatives considered H.R. 4626, the Home Appliance Protection and Affordability Act, on February 24, 2026. The Rules Committee reported the bill with modifications, and floor action included debate on amendments related to consumer impact and central bank digital currencies.

H.R. 4758 - Homeowner Energy Freedom Act Rule

The US House of Representatives has reported H.R. 4758, the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act, and established a closed rule for its consideration. The bill, reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce on February 23, 2026, will undergo floor action with specific debate and amendment procedures outlined.

Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Act, 2026 Introduced

Senator Jerry Moran introduced the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 (S.2354) on July 17, 2025. This bill outlines the proposed federal funding for fiscal year 2026 for various departments and agencies, including Commerce, Justice, NASA, and the NSF. The bill has been placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar.

US Budget for 2025-2034

The Senate agreed to Concurrent Resolution 7, establishing the US federal budget for fiscal year 2025 and setting budgetary levels through fiscal year 2034. The resolution includes reconciliation instructions for committees to report legislation affecting the deficit by specified amounts.

Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025

The Senate has passed the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 (S.524). This bill, introduced by Senator Ted Cruz, aims to authorize appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal year 2025. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026

Senate bill S.2256, the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, for Fiscal Year 2026, has been introduced and placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar. The bill outlines proposed appropriations for various USDA programs, the FDA, and related agencies.

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 has become Public Law No: 119-60. This act establishes policies and authorities for the Department of Defense, Department of Energy national security programs, Department of State, Coast Guard, and the Intelligence Community for FY2026. It covers a wide range of areas including procurement, personnel, acquisitions, cyber operations, and international relations.

ESMA Consultation: Regulatory Standards for Post-Trade Risk Reduction Services

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a consultation paper on proposed regulatory technical standards (RTS) for post-trade risk reduction services. This consultation seeks feedback on requirements for services that aim to reduce risk for the purpose of clearing obligation exemptions under EMIR.

New York v. Valve Corporation - Loot Boxes and Gambling

The New York Attorney General has sued Valve Corporation, alleging that its video game loot boxes function as illegal gambling. The complaint argues that Valve's monetization of virtual items through loot boxes violates New York's gambling laws and seeks to hold the company accountable for these practices.

DVRO Reversed; Inmate's Right to Court Access Violated

The California Court of Appeal reversed a domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) against an inmate, finding his right to court access was violated. The court failed to address the inmate's request for transportation or telephonic appearance, leading to a reversal and remand for proper proceedings.

FINRA proposes rule change for overnight transaction reporting exception

FINRA has filed a proposed rule change with the SEC to amend rules governing transaction reporting. The proposal seeks to provide a limited, temporary exception for reporting specified overnight transactions before 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

Executive Order Transfers Youth Services Program

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker issued Executive Order 2026-02, transferring the Comprehensive Community-Based Youth Services Program (CCBYS) from the Department of Human Services to the Department of Children and Family Services. This transfer is effective July 1, 2026, and aims to streamline services for at-risk youth.

MHRA Raids Illegal Weight Loss Medicine Facility

The MHRA has raided two facilities suspected of manufacturing and selling illegal weight loss medicines, seizing nearly 2,000 doses and manufacturing equipment. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into a criminal network and aims to protect the public from dangerous, unregulated products.

US DOL: Restaurant Violated Child Labor and Overtime Laws

The US Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division found Mt. Fuji Hibachi Inc. violated child labor laws by allowing a minor to perform hazardous tasks and work excessive hours. The investigation also revealed the employer denied overtime pay to 19 workers, resulting in $20,213 in back wages. The company paid a $22,249 civil penalty.

US Department of Labor Recovers $409K Back Wages from Little Caesars Operator

The U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division has recovered $409,457 in back wages from MG Fast Food Inc., an operator of a Little Caesars restaurant. The settlement resolves violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act concerning minimum wage and overtime pay for 32 workers.

SEC Obtains Consent Judgment Against Defendant in Fraud Case

The SEC announced it obtained a final consent judgment against Charles T. Lawrence, Jr. in a civil enforcement action. Lawrence was charged with a multi-million dollar offering fraud, misappropriating at least $4.89 million of investor funds. The judgment permanently enjoins him from violating securities laws and orders disgorgement.

SEC Obtains Final Judgments Against Mining Company and Executives

The SEC announced final judgments by consent against Western Sierra Resource Corporation and its executives Roger Johnson and Dennis Atkins. The company and executives were charged with issuing false and misleading statements regarding the acquisition of gold mining claims. Johnson and Atkins each agreed to pay a $150,000 civil penalty, a three-year officer-and-director bar, and a five-year penny-stock bar.

GEO Group, Inc. v. Menocal - Denial of Yearsley Protection Not Immediately Appealable

The Supreme Court ruled in GEO Group, Inc. v. Menocal that a pretrial order denying a federal contractor 'Yearsley protection' is not immediately appealable. The Court held that the denial of this defense is not an immunity from suit, and thus does not qualify for interlocutory review under the collateral-order doctrine.