US v. Augustine Perez - Opinion Reversed, Vacated, Remanded

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed and vacated a district court's decision in US v. Augustine Perez. The court found that a warrantless search of a third party's residence, even if authorized by a probationer's condition, was unconstitutional without probable cause that the probationer also resided there. The seized currency was deemed improperly seized.

Emrit v. Moore - Appeal Dismissed for Lack of Jurisdiction

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed Ronald Emrit's appeal for lack of jurisdiction. The court found that Emrit filed his notice of appeal before the district court entered any final or appealable interlocutory orders, thus the appellate court could not exercise jurisdiction. Emrit may need to file a new notice of appeal if he wishes to appeal the district court's subsequent dismissal order.

Williams v. Truesdell - Appeal Dismissed for Untimely Filing

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed Kristen Williams's appeal against Phillip Truesdell and others. The dismissal was based on the appellant's failure to file the notice of appeal within the 30-day jurisdictional deadline after the district court's order.

Presidential Candidate Case Affirmed by Fourth Circuit

The Fourth Circuit affirmed a district court's decision to dismiss a civil complaint filed by a presidential candidate, Ronald Satish Emrit, finding it frivolous. The court found no reversible error in the district court's determination that the complaint failed to present a coherent claim for relief.

French v. Elliott - Civil Rights Appeal

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a district court's decision denying relief on a 42 U.S.C. § 1983 complaint filed by Aaron Little French. The unpublished opinion stated no reversible error was found in the lower court's ruling.

Juanita Crouch v. SunCakes NC, LLC - Employment Discrimination and Wage Dispute

The Fourth Circuit affirmed a district court's grant of summary judgment for SunCakes NC, LLC in a case brought by former employee Juanita Crouch. Crouch alleged sexual harassment, sex discrimination, retaliation under Title VII, and violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The court found the claims lacked merit based on the provided evidence.

US v. Clifton Mosley - Criminal Appeal Affirmed

The Fourth Circuit affirmed the conviction of Clifton Mosley for witness murder and marijuana trafficking. The court found sufficient evidence and rejected Mosley's arguments regarding severance, suppression of evidence, and insufficient evidence. The decision sustains the jury's verdict.

US v. Daniela Giancoli - Appeal Dismissed in Part, Affirmed in Part

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed in part and affirmed in part the appeal of Daniela Marie Giancoli. Giancoli was sentenced to 150 months for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. Her appeal arguments regarding sentencing errors and Brady violations were dismissed due to an appeal waiver.

Crater Health District Warns of Increased Winter Substance Use Disorder Risk

The Crater Health District in Virginia has issued a notice warning of increased risks for substance use disorder during the winter months. The district is providing tips and resources to help individuals and the community combat SUD and support recovery.

Environmental Permit Application Advertisement for Rosie Wells-Cole

The Environment Agency has published an advertisement for an environmental permit application submitted by Rosie Wells-Cole for Hardisty's Farm. This notice informs the public about the application and the process for submitting comments.

Sycamores Retreat Environmental Permit Application Advertisement

The Environment Agency has published an advertisement for an environmental permit application submitted by Sycamores Retreat Limited for their facility at LS24 9EP. This notice informs the public about the application and the process for submitting comments.

Delaware Court of Chancery Denies Expert Opinion Motions

The Delaware Court of Chancery denied three out of four motions in limine seeking to exclude expert opinions in the In re Saama Technologies Litigation (C.A. No. 2022-1045-LWW). A decision on the fourth motion was deferred. The court found that challenges to expert methodologies and data could be addressed during cross-examination.

ESMA Consults on CCP Collateral and Investment Policy

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to central counterparty (CCP) collateral and investment policies, stemming from EMIR 3. The consultation seeks feedback on the acceptance of various guarantees as collateral and the eligibility of debt instruments for CCP investment policies, with a deadline for responses on April 30, 2026.

ESMA Withdraws MiFID II/MiFIR Market Data Guidelines

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has withdrawn its guidelines on MiFID II/MiFIR obligations concerning market data. This action aligns the regulatory framework with new technical standards that entered into force in November 2025, aiming to simplify rules for market participants.

New York Declares Disaster Emergency Due to Nor'easter

New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a disaster emergency effective February 22, 2026, due to a nor'easter impacting numerous counties. The order suspends certain statutes to facilitate response and recovery efforts, including waiving procurement processes and hours of service rules for utility restoration crews.

AEPD Resolution on Rights Procedure and Labor Dispute

The Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) has issued a resolution regarding a data rights procedure initiated on June 2, 2025. The case involves a former employee's claims against FENG SHENG SUSHI, S.L. concerning alleged falsification of a labor contract, denial of access to personal data, and improper use of banking information.

Ofcom Fines Porn Company £1.35m for Lack of Age Checks

Ofcom has fined pornographic company 8579 LLC £1.35 million for failing to implement effective age verification measures as required by the UK's Online Safety Act. The company also received a £50,000 fine for failing to respond to a legally binding information request. These actions underscore Ofcom's commitment to protecting children online.

International Data Protection Authorities Joint Statement on AI Imagery Risks

Sixty-one international data protection authorities have issued a joint statement outlining privacy risks associated with AI-generated imagery. The statement addresses concerns about the creation of realistic images and videos of individuals without consent, particularly highlighting potential harms to children. It urges responsible AI development and deployment.

Paxton Secures Injunction Against Xcel Energy for Wildfire Risk

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has secured a temporary injunction against Xcel Energy, requiring immediate action to replace damaged utility poles and conduct rigorous inspections to mitigate wildfire risks. This action follows the devastating Smokehouse Creek Fire, which Xcel Energy admitted was caused by a broken utility pole.

Supreme Court Denies Huntington Beach Housing Law Challenge

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the U.S. Supreme Court denied Huntington Beach's challenge to state housing laws. This decision upholds a Ninth Circuit ruling and requires Huntington Beach to comply with state housing mandates, with ongoing litigation in state court to ensure compliance.

OSFI Superintendent Discusses Mortgage Regulation and Financial System Resilience

OSFI Superintendent Peter Routledge discussed the future of mortgage regulation, including the retention of stress tests and LTI limits, and OSFI's ongoing regulatory modernization efforts. The speech highlighted OSFI's commitment to adapting its framework based on feedback from regulated institutions.

EU Legislation and Notices - February 23, 2026

The EU published several legislative acts and decisions on February 23, 2026. These include implementing regulations concerning restrictive measures in Russia, amendments to active substance approvals for biocidal products, and a decision on Iceland's participation in the Union Space Programme.

MHRA Licenses Brensocatib for Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis

The MHRA has granted a marketing authorisation for brensocatib (Brinsupri), the first medicine specifically designed to treat non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) in patients aged 12 years and older. This marks a significant advancement in treatment options for NCFB patients in the UK.

MHRA Class 2 Medicines Recall: KidNaps Melatonin Oral Solution

The MHRA has issued a Class 2 medicines recall for all batches of KidNaps Melatonin 1mg in 1ml Oral Solution due to out-of-specification stability results. Sterling Pharmaceuticals Ltd and Veriton Pharma Ltd are conducting the recall at the wholesaler and pharmacy level.

NY Attorney General Warns of Price Gouging Ahead of Winter Storm

New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued a consumer alert warning New Yorkers about potential price gouging of essential goods and services ahead of a winter storm. Violations can result in penalties of up to $25,000 per violation.

European AI Innovation Month Announced

The European Commission and the Irish Presidency of the Council have announced the European AI Innovation Month, a series of events scheduled from mid-October to mid-November 2026. The initiative aims to discuss and showcase AI development and deployment in Europe, culminating in the European Apply AI Summit.

Jane Doe 1 v. Lyft, Inc. - Civil Case Filing

A new civil case, Jane Doe 1 v. Lyft, Inc., was filed on February 21, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The case involves a conditional transfer order from the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation.

R.R. v. LYFT, Inc. - Personal Injury Product Liability

A new civil case, R.R. v. LYFT, Inc., was filed on February 21, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The case involves personal injury and product liability under diversity jurisdiction. A recent filing indicates a transfer for consolidated pretrial proceedings.

Hannah Harring Environmental Permit Application Advertisement

The Environment Agency has published an advertisement for an environmental permit application submitted by Hannah Harring for Sloe House, Winchester. This notice informs the public about the application and the process for submitting comments.

Environment Agency Shuts Waste Dump, Makes Arrests, Recovers Funds

The Environment Agency has shut down an illegal waste dump near the M25, arrested two individuals, and recovered £1.1m from waste crime activities. This action highlights the agency's increased use of technology and enforcement measures against illegal waste disposal.

NY Executive Order Declares Disaster Emergency

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state disaster emergency effective February 22, 2026, due to an expected nor'easter. The order applies to numerous counties and contiguous areas, suspending certain regulations to facilitate emergency response and relief efforts.

California AG Bonta Wins Ruling Against Tulare Zoning Update for CEQA Violation

California Attorney General Rob Bonta secured a court ruling against the City of Tulare's Zoning Ordinance Update, finding it violated the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The court ordered the City to void its approval and comply with CEQA before any future actions.

State AGs Win Supreme Court Challenge Against Trump Tariffs

The Supreme Court ruled in favor of 12 State Attorneys General, including New York's AG Letitia James, declaring the Trump administration's "emergency" tariffs imposed under IEEPA unlawful. This decision overturns tariffs that had disrupted the economy for businesses and workers.

Temporary 10% Import Duty Imposed

President Trump has imposed a temporary 10% ad valorem import duty on articles imported into the United States for 150 days, effective February 24, 2026. This action aims to address international payment problems and rebalance trade relationships, with specific exemptions for certain critical goods and trade partners.

Environmental Health Advocates v. Pancho Villa's - Proposition 65 Notice Requirements

The California Court of Appeal reversed a trial court's dismissal of a Proposition 65 enforcement action. The appellate court found that a plaintiff's failure to strictly comply with certain procedural notice requirements under the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 did not necessarily invalidate the action.

GAO Report on Interior Department Oil and Gas Data Sharing

The GAO released a report highlighting significant inefficiencies in the Department of the Interior's oil and gas data sharing processes. The report found that despite efforts to modernize systems, manual data entry and a lack of automated sharing persist, hindering oversight of energy development on federal and Tribal lands. The GAO recommends setting specific time frames and measurable goals to address these issues.

GAO Report: Improve Disability Access to DOL Job Programs

The GAO released a report highlighting issues with disability access to Department of Labor (DOL) job programs. The report found that job seekers with disabilities may not receive necessary accommodations and that DOL does not routinely analyze its monitoring results or evaluate the use of its guidance. The GAO recommended DOL address these systemic issues.

President Continues Suspension of Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment

The President has issued an Executive Order continuing the suspension of duty-free de minimis treatment for all countries. This action impacts shipments entering the United States through the international postal network and is based on national security and economic concerns.

Ending Certain Tariff Actions

President Biden has issued an executive order ending certain tariff actions previously imposed under various executive orders related to national emergencies. These tariffs, primarily *ad valorem* duties, will be removed as soon as practicable. The national emergencies themselves remain in effect.

Presidential Proclamation: 10% Import Surcharge

The President has issued a proclamation imposing a temporary 10% import surcharge to address fundamental international payments problems, including large balance-of-payments deficits. This action, authorized by the Trade Act of 1974, aims to protect the U.S. economy and national security. Specific product exceptions may apply.

ESMA Supervisory Briefing on CCP AAR Representativeness Obligation

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a supervisory briefing clarifying the representativeness obligation for Central Counterparties (CCPs) regarding their Approved Alternative Arrangements (AARs). This guidance aims to ensure consistent application of the obligation across the EU.

First Lady Donates Inaugural Gown to Smithsonian

First Lady Melania Trump donated her 2025 inaugural gown to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History's First Ladies Collection. The donation adds to the museum's extensive collection of historical artifacts and is now on public display.

MHRA Statement on PATHWAYS Puberty Blocker Trial Safety

The MHRA has issued a statement regarding the PATHWAYS puberty blocker trial, expressing concerns about participant wellbeing and initiating scientific dialogue with the trial sponsor, King's College London. The agency is applying high scrutiny to ensure the safety of potential child and young person participants.

United States v. Castro Alavez - Conviction Affirmed in Part, Vacated in Part

The Ninth Circuit affirmed in part and vacated in part the conviction and sentence of Luis Miguel Castro Alavez. The court agreed that the jury instruction regarding knowledge of drug type and quantity was erroneous and not harmless for the attempted possession charge, vacating the sentence for that count.

BLM Wild Horse Management Plans Revision Ordered by D.C. Circuit

The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) must revise its ten-year wild horse management plans. The court found that the plans impermissibly allowed for indefinite removals without proper determination of excess horses or consultation, requiring BLM to clarify future gather processes.

US v. McBreairty - Criminal Contempt Appeal

The First Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a district court's criminal contempt order against Danielle McBreairty. McBreairty refused to testify in a federal trial, even after being granted statutory immunity under 18 U.S.C. §§ 6002-6003, invoking her Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination.

US v. Yoon - Health Care Fraud Conviction Appeal

The First Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the health care fraud conviction of Chang Goo Yoon, who submitted over a million dollars in false claims. The court upheld evidentiary rulings and sentencing enhancements, affirming his conviction for defrauding private insurers and his own car insurer.

SEC Charges C-Hear, Inc. and Former CEO with Fraud

The SEC charged C-Hear, Inc. and its former CEO, Adena Harmon, with securities fraud in connection with a $4.2 million stock offering. The complaint alleges misleading statements about the company's technology and concealment of Harmon's criminal convictions, as well as misappropriation of investor funds.

Winchell v. Social Security Commissioner - Social Security Review

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California filed a new civil case, Winchell v. Social Security Commissioner, on February 20, 2026. The case involves a complaint for judicial review of a decision by the Commissioner of Social Security regarding disability benefits.

Tsering v. ByteDance, Inc. et al - Civil Suit

Lisa Tsering has filed a civil suit against ByteDance, Inc., TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, and TikTok, Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The case, bearing number 4:26-cv-01536, was filed on February 20, 2026, with a filing fee of $405.