FCC Cuts Off Provider for Violating Robocall Rules

The FCC has issued an order to immediately cut off a provider for violating robocall rules. This action prevents the company from connecting with U.S. networks, impacting its ability to operate.

DOJ Opinion: 18 U.S.C. § 1715 Unconstitutional for Protected Firearms

The Department of Justice's Office of Legal Counsel has issued an opinion stating that 18 U.S.C. § 1715 is unconstitutional as applied to protected firearms, including handguns. The DOJ may no longer enforce this statute with respect to such firearms, and the Postal Service should modify its regulations accordingly.

DOJ OLC Opinion on Federal Housing Assistance and PRWORA

The DOJ Office of Legal Counsel has issued a memorandum opinion clarifying that federal housing assistance programs administered under Section 214 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980 are considered 'Federal means-tested public benefits' under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA). Alien applicants must now satisfy eligibility requirements under both statutes.

Reconsidering State Procedures for Competent Counsel in Capital Cases

The DOJ's Office of Legal Counsel has withdrawn its 2009 opinion regarding the Attorney General's authority to condition expedited habeas proceedings on state competency standards for capital case counsel. This reconsideration, prompted by the Supreme Court's decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, shifts the interpretation of 28 U.S.C. § 2265(a)(1).

DOJ Legal Opinion on Stock Units for Federal Employees

The DOJ's Office of Legal Counsel has issued a legal opinion clarifying that federal employees participating in the proposed "Tech Force" program may continue to receive previously awarded restricted stock units (RSUs) that vest during their government service. This opinion aims to facilitate the recruitment of skilled technologists into federal roles.

DOJ Opinion: Defense Production Act Orders Preempt State Law

The DOJ's Office of Legal Counsel issued a memorandum opinion concluding that Presidential orders under the Defense Production Act (DPA) have the force of federal law and can preempt contrary state laws. This opinion addresses a specific case involving Sable Offshore Corp. and the State of California's impediments to oil production.

DOJ: Former Commercial Roofing Executive Pleads Guilty to Bid Rigging

The Department of Justice announced that Gregg Wallick, former executive of a commercial roofing company, pleaded guilty to a conspiracy to rig bids on roofing projects in Florida. The scheme illegally obtained over $3.5 million and violated the Sherman Act.

DOJ and USPTO Statement of Interest on Innovation Incentives

The Department of Justice and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office filed a statement of interest in a patent infringement case, reaffirming the importance of preserving incentives to innovate. The filing supports the patent owner's ability to seek injunctive relief to prevent infringement, which is crucial for economic growth and competition.

DOJ: Texas Man Sentenced for Antitrust Conspiracy

The Department of Justice announced that Roberto Garcia Villarreal was sentenced to 30 months in prison and a $50,000 fine for his role in a conspiracy to monopolize the international transit industry. The scheme involved price fixing and extorting competitors.

DOJ: Arizona Cardiology Group Pays $4.75M for Unnecessary Vein Ablations

The Department of Justice announced that Tri-City Cardiology, P.C., and three physicians will pay $4.75 million to resolve allegations of violating the False Claims Act. The group allegedly performed medically unnecessary vein ablations between January 1, 2017, and April 27, 2022.

DOJ: Nine Antifa Operatives Convicted for Riot, Weapons, Obstruction

The Department of Justice announced the conviction of nine Antifa operatives for their roles in a riot, weapons and explosives use, obstruction, and attempted murder at the Prairieland ICE Detention Center. The verdict follows a 12-day trial in Fort Worth, Texas.

DOJ Charges Virginia Man with Illegal Firearm Sales

The Department of Justice announced the arrest and charging of a Virginia man for illegally selling firearms, including one used in a campus shooting at Old Dominion University. The defendant faces up to 35 years in prison if convicted.

DOJ Antitrust: Adobe Agrees to $150 Million Settlement for ROSCA Violations

The Department of Justice announced a proposed $150 million settlement with Adobe Inc. for alleged violations of the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act (ROSCA). The settlement includes $75 million in civil penalties and $75 million in free services to resolve claims of deceptive subscription practices and difficult cancellation processes.

US Arrests Alleged Tren de Aragua Leader for Chilean Charges

The Department of Justice announced the arrest of Rafael Enrique Gamez Salas, an alleged leader of the Tren de Aragua criminal organization, at the request of Chile. Gamez Salas faces charges in Chile for criminal association, extortion, and kidnapping resulting in homicide. This action highlights international cooperation in combating transnational crime.

Brazil Diesel Subsidy and Increased Oil Export Tax

Brazil has published Provisional Measure No. 1,340/2026, authorizing an economic subsidy for diesel oil sales and increasing export taxes on crude petroleum oils and diesel oil. The subsidy is R$0.32 per liter and is effective until December 31, 2026, while export taxes are set at 12% for crude oil and 50% for diesel oil.

Treasury, IRS Guidance on Prohibited Foreign Entity Rules

The Treasury Department and IRS released Notice 2026-15 providing initial guidance on Prohibited Foreign Entity (PFE) Rules. The notice clarifies how to calculate the material assistance cost ratio (MACR) for certain energy-related tax credits, determining if a taxpayer received material assistance from a PFE.

EU Commission Proposes Industrial Accelerator Act

The EU Commission has proposed the Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) to strengthen the EU's manufacturing industry. The act aims to increase manufacturing's share of EU GDP to 20% by 2035 by introducing 'Made in EU' criteria in public procurement and public support schemes, and establishing scrutiny for large foreign investments in strategic sectors.

Supreme Court Rules IEEPA Tariffs Invalid; Importers May Seek Refunds

The Supreme Court ruled that tariffs imposed under IEEPA are invalid, as the President lacks the authority to impose taxes. Importers who paid these tariffs may now seek refunds through various legal avenues, including actions in the Court of International Trade.

USTR Investigates 16 Economies for Manufacturing Overcapacity and Forced Labor

The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated Section 301 investigations into manufacturing overcapacity in 16 economies and the failure of 60 economies to enforce prohibitions on goods produced with forced labor. Written comments are due by April 15, 2026, with public hearings to follow.

USTR Launches Section 301 Investigations on Manufacturing Excess Capacity

The USTR has initiated investigations under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 concerning manufacturing excess capacity in 16 partner economies. These investigations could lead to additional U.S. tariff actions aimed at addressing trade imbalances and protecting domestic manufacturing.

IEEPA Tariffs Struck Down; Importers Seek Refunds via CIT

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down tariffs imposed under IEEPA in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump, affirming that IEEPA does not authorize presidential tariffs. Challenges are within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Court of International Trade (CIT), where over 2000 refund cases are currently stayed.

Trump Tariff Tracker: Section 122 Tariffs and Section 301 Investigations

This update tracks the Reclaim Trade Powers Act, challenges to Section 122 tariffs, and new Section 301 investigations by the USTR into excess manufacturing capacity and forced labor. Public comments are invited for these investigations.

Education Department Proposed Rule on Payment Estimation Collection

The Education Department has submitted a request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval of a new agency information collection activity concerning annual improper payment estimation. This notice seeks public comment on the proposed collection of required information.

Nkemnji v. Nelnet, Inc. and United States Dept. of Education - Student Loan Dispute

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois ruled on a case involving student loan debt. The court found that the plaintiff's attempt to pay off over $90,000 in student loans using a bill of exchange was not a valid method of payment.

Simply Delivered LLC v. The Bazaar Inc - Court Opinion

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois issued an opinion in Simply Delivered LLC v. The Bazaar Inc. The court found that the record was insufficiently developed to rule on the merits of the negligence and breach-of-contract claims concerning a $97,000 electronic funds transfer. The case involves a dispute over a fraudulent payment instruction.

Bradley Ard v. Commonwealth of Kentucky - Criminal Appeal

The Kentucky Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision denying a motion to suppress evidence in the case of Bradley Ard v. Commonwealth of Kentucky. The court found that the arresting officer had probable cause to arrest Ard for public intoxication, leading to the discovery of illegal drugs.

Ellen Sullivan v. Broadening Horizons, Inc. - Opinion Affirming

The Court of Appeals of Kentucky affirmed a lower court's summary judgment in favor of Broadening Horizons, Inc. and its officers in a case brought by Ellen Sullivan, a family home provider. The dispute arose from a medication error that occurred in 2022.

Lexington Planning Commission v. Wilkerson - Zoning Ordinance Appeal

The Kentucky Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision reversing the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Planning Commission's conditional approval of a retail coffee shop development plan. The circuit court found the Commission's action exceeded its authority and violated local zoning ordinances.

Paul Constante v. Bernice King - Divorce and Spousal Maintenance Appeal

The Court of Appeals of Kentucky affirmed a lower court's decision regarding spousal maintenance in the divorce case of Paul Constante v. Bernice King. The appeal focused on the trial court's findings regarding income, needs, and the open-ended nature of the maintenance award.

Carlos Faulkner v. Commonwealth of Kentucky - Criminal Appeal

The Court of Appeals of Kentucky affirmed the denial of Carlos Faulkner's motion for postconviction relief. Faulkner appealed the Kenton Circuit Court's decision regarding his fourth CR 60.02 motion. The court found his arguments procedurally barred.

Devon Wade v. Commonwealth of Kentucky - Affirming Opinion

The Kentucky Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision denying a motion to withdraw a guilty plea. The appellant argued ineffective assistance of counsel due to the failure to review all digital evidence. The court found no reversible error in the lower court's ruling.

Social Security Contributions Re-rating Amendment Regulations 2026

The UK Treasury has issued the Social Security (Contributions) (Re-rating) Consequential Amendment Regulations 2026, effective April 6, 2026. These regulations amend the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001, increasing the special rate of Class 2 National Insurance contributions for share fishermen from £4.15 to £4.30.

Guardian's Allowance Up-rating Regulations 2026

The UK Commissioners for His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs have issued the Guardian's Allowance Up-rating Regulations 2026. These regulations, effective April 6, 2026, update the rates for Guardian's Allowance and related provisions.

Westmorland and Furness electoral changes order 2026

This statutory instrument, the Westmorland and Furness electoral changes order 2026, details changes to electoral arrangements within the Westmorland and Furness area. It is expected to come into force on January 1, 2026.

Executive Order on Promoting Access to Mortgage Credit

President Biden issued an Executive Order aimed at promoting mortgage credit access by reducing regulatory burdens on smaller banks. The order directs agencies like the CFPB and Federal Reserve to consider reforms to Ability-to-Repay and Qualified Mortgage rules, potentially easing compliance for banks with under $100 billion in assets.

Executive Order on Removing Regulatory Barriers to Affordable Home Construction

President Biden issued an Executive Order directing federal agencies to review and revise regulations that create barriers to affordable home construction. The order targets environmental, energy, and housing finance regulations to streamline processes and reduce costs for builders and homeowners.

Executive Order on Truthful "Made in America" Product Advertising

President Biden issued an Executive Order directing the FTC to prioritize enforcement against false "Made in America" claims and consider regulations for online marketplaces. The order also requires agencies to review and verify American-origin claims for government procurement contracts.

Executive Order Adjusts Defense Production Act Delegations

This Executive Order amends Executive Order 13603, adjusting delegations of authority under the Defense Production Act. It clarifies the roles of the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Energy, allowing them to exercise delegated authority independently. The order also clarifies agency recommendation procedures under Executive Order 14156.

Cardiff and Vale Health Board Maintenance Contract for Freedom Evo

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board has published a contract notice for maintenance services for its Freedom Evo 100 system. The contract, valued at £60,102 excluding VAT, will be provided by Tecan and runs from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2029.

NOAA Seeks Proposals for Harmful Algal Blooms Program

NOAA is soliciting proposals for its Prevention, Control, and Mitigation of Harmful Algal Blooms (PCMHAB) program. Approximately $2,500,000 is available to support three to five projects focused on testing and scaling up harmful algal bloom control technologies. Eligible applicants include various US institutions and organizations.

BJA FY25 Edward Byrne JAG Program Local Formula Grant Opportunity

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) has released the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the FY25 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. Eligible local and tribal governments can apply for funding to support law enforcement and public safety initiatives. The application deadline is April 21, 2026.

BJA FY25 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) has announced the FY25 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program for state governments. The total award amount is approximately $199 million, with applications due by April 7, 2026.

NHTSA Denies Daimler Coaches Petition for Inconsequential Noncompliance

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has denied a petition from Daimler Coaches North America, LLC, for a decision of inconsequential noncompliance. The denial pertains to a defect related to the vehicle's braking system.

NHTSA Proposes Amending FMVSS No. 102 for ADS Vehicles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has proposed amendments to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 102 to accommodate vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (ADS). This proposed rule is open for public comment.

NHTSA Proposes Modernizing FMVSS for ADS-Equipped Vehicles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has proposed amendments to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) No. 103 and No. 104. These proposed changes aim to modernize the standards to accommodate vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (ADS).

Federal Student Aid Updates SAIG Message Class File

Federal Student Aid has updated the Student Aid Internet Gateway (SAIG) message class file by adding new message classes for the FAFSA Processing System. This update is automatically applied to EDconnect transmission software when users connect to the SAIG network.

OFAC Issues Venezuela General Licenses 46B, 48A, 49A and Amends FAQs

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued updated Venezuela-related General Licenses 46B, 48A, and 49A, authorizing specific activities related to Venezuelan oil, petrochemicals, and investment negotiations. OFAC also amended two related Frequently Asked Questions.

OFAC SDN List Update: Removals and Additions

The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has updated the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. This action involves the removal of certain individuals and entities previously designated, as well as the addition of new ones, related to cyber activities. Specific details on the designations and removals are provided.

Presidential Message on National K-9 Veterans Day

The White House issued a Presidential message honoring National K-9 Veterans Day on March 13, 2026. The message celebrates the contributions of working dogs in military and law enforcement operations throughout U.S. history.

Executive Order Establishing a State Attainment Working Group

Illinois Governor has issued an Executive Order establishing a State Attainment Working Group. The order aims to increase postsecondary credential attainment to meet future workforce demands and address existing disparities in access to good jobs.