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.

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.

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.

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.