GAO Update on COVID-19 Relief Funds Spending by States and Localities

The GAO has released an update on the spending of COVID-19 relief funds by state and local governments. As of March 31, 2025, states had spent 80% of their funds, and localities had spent 84%. Recipients had until December 31, 2026, to spend the remaining funds.

Trump Administration Increases Beef Quota to Address Prices

President Trump signed a Proclamation to increase the U.S. tariff-rate quota for lean beef trimmings by 80,000 metric tons annually from Argentina. This action aims to boost supply and lower ground beef prices, which have reached record highs due to reduced domestic production and other market challenges.

EO on Iran National Emergency, Tariffs, and IRGC Designation

President Trump signed an Executive Order reaffirming the national emergency with respect to Iran and establishing a process to impose tariffs on countries that acquire goods or services from Iran. This action aims to protect U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economy by countering Iran's malign influence and support for terrorism.

Executive Order on America First Arms Transfer Strategy

President Trump signed an Executive Order establishing the America First Arms Transfer Strategy. This strategy aims to reindustrialize the US defense industrial base by prioritizing arms transfers that build production capacity, support domestic reindustrialization, strengthen supply chains, and benefit strategic partners. The order directs Secretaries of War, State, and Commerce to develop sales catalogs, enhance advocacy, and improve efficiency in transfer processes.

US-India Trade Deal Announced

The White House announced a trade deal between the US and India, including tariff reductions and India's commitment to purchase over $500 billion in US products. The agreement aims to open India's market to American goods and address non-tariff barriers.

Executive Order on Prioritizing Clean Coal for National Defense

President Trump signed an Executive Order directing the Department of War to prioritize long-term Power Purchase Agreements with clean coal facilities for military installations. This action aims to ensure uninterrupted baseload power for national defense and strengthen grid reliability.

First Lady Facilitates Russian-Ukrainian Child Reunification

The White House announced that First Lady Melania Trump has facilitated the third reunification of Russian and Ukrainian children with their families. The First Lady urged both nations to intensify efforts for the safe return of all displaced children.

President Abraham Lincoln's Birthday Proclamation 2026

The White House issued a statement commemorating the 217th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln on February 12, 2026. The statement highlights Lincoln's leadership during the Civil War and his enduring legacy on American principles.

US and North Macedonia Trade Framework Agreement

The United States and North Macedonia have agreed to a framework for a trade agreement aimed at expanding market access for both countries' exporters. Key terms include North Macedonia eliminating customs duties on US goods and the US maintaining specific reciprocal tariffs while identifying products for zero tariffs.

Presidential Message on American Heart Month

The White House issued a Presidential message for American Heart Month, urging Americans to prioritize heart health through lifestyle changes and preventative measures. The message highlights administration efforts to lower prescription drug prices and improve healthcare access.

Presidential Message on Career and Technical Education Month

The White House issued a Presidential message for Career and Technical Education Month, reaffirming commitment to preparing American workers and students with skills for emerging industries. The message highlights recent actions, including an Executive Order and the Workforce Pell Grants program, aimed at expanding career education opportunities.

Executive Order on National Security and Public Safety Threats

President Biden issued an Executive Order to protect national security and public safety from criminal actors, including foreign nationals with criminal histories. The order directs the Attorney General to provide the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with access to criminal history record information (CHRI) and authorizes DHS to exchange CHRI with trusted foreign countries for border security and immigration purposes.

Executive Order Establishing America First Arms Transfer Strategy

President Biden has established the "America First Arms Transfer Strategy" via Executive Order 14269. This strategy aims to leverage US arms sales as a foreign policy tool to expand domestic production and industrial capacity, prioritizing American interests and strengthening the defense industrial base. The Secretary of War, in coordination with other agencies, must submit a prioritized sales catalog within 120 days.

Executive Order Modifies Duties on Imports from India

The President has issued an Executive Order modifying duties to address threats from the Russian Federation. Effective February 7, 2026, products of India will no longer be subject to an additional 25 percent ad valorem duty previously imposed under Executive Order 14329. This modification is based on India's commitment to cease importing Russian oil and expand defense cooperation with the US.

Executive Order on National Defense and Clean Coal Power

President Biden issued an Executive Order to strengthen national defense by prioritizing clean coal power generation. The order directs the Department of War to enter into long-term power purchase agreements with coal-fired energy facilities to ensure reliable power for military installations and defense-industrial bases.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

The White House announced the nomination of several individuals to key positions within the US government, including US Attorneys, Assistant Secretaries, Ambassadors, and Commissioners. These nominations have been sent to the Senate for confirmation.

Guidance on Psychiatric Evaluation and Discharge Practices

The New York State Office of Mental Health and Department of Health have issued updated joint guidance on psychiatric evaluation and discharge practices for individuals with behavioral health conditions. This update aligns with recent changes to state regulations and provides guidance for emergency departments, comprehensive psychiatric emergency programs, and inpatient psychiatric units.

Land Transaction Tax (Wales) Regulations 2026 Amendments

The Land Transaction Tax (Wales) Regulations 2026 have been amended, with changes taking effect on January 1, 2026. These amendments introduce modifications to the existing tax framework within Wales. Specific details regarding the nature of the amendments are available in the full text.

Wales Land Transaction Tax Relief Modification Regulations

The Welsh Government has enacted regulations modifying Land Transaction Tax (LTT) relief. These changes are effective from January 1, 2026, and will impact property transactions within Wales.

Heritage Foundation v. Airbnb - Case 25-676

The U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware has issued an opinion in Case 25-676, The Heritage Foundation et al v. Airbnb, Inc. et al. The case was presided over by Judge Gregory B. Williams and the opinion was filed on February 12, 2026.

Tankovich MD, PHD v. Candela Corporation - Case 22-1458

The U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware issued an opinion in the case of Tankovich MD, PHD v. Candela Corporation, case number 22-1458. The opinion was issued by Magistrate Judge Sherry R. Fallon on February 12, 2026.

Voxtur Analytics Corp. et al v. Haldane et al - Case 25-742

The US District Court for the District of Delaware has issued an opinion in the case Voxtur Analytics Corp. et al v. Haldane et al, case number 25-742. The opinion was filed on February 12, 2026, by Magistrate Judge Sherry R. Fallon.

Nielsen Company (US), LLC v. VideoAmp, Inc. - Case Details

This document provides details for case 25-408, Nielsen Company (US), LLC v. VideoAmp, Inc., presided over by Magistrate Judge Eleanor G. Tennyson. The filing date is February 12, 2026. The case details are available in PDF format.

Rein Tech Inc. v. Mueller Systems LLC - Court Case

The US District Court for the District of Delaware issued a ruling in the case of Rein Tech Inc. v. Mueller Systems LLC. The case, identified by docket number 18-1683, was presided over by District Judge Maryellen Noreika. The specific nature of the ruling is detailed in the associated PDF document.

Jiang v. Haslet Park Homeowners Association - HOA Window Installation Dispute

The Delaware Court of Chancery issued a final report regarding a dispute between homeowner Kun Jiang and the Haslet Park Homeowners Association over unapproved window installations and HOA election challenges. The court ruled partially in favor of Jiang and partially in favor of the HOA, addressing fines and recoupment of legal fees.

Delaware Court of Chancery Opinion on Fitracks Order

The Delaware Court of Chancery issued an opinion resolving disputes regarding the terms of the Fitracks Order, which governs the payment of advancement and fees-on-fees in litigation. The court adopted the plaintiffs' proposed language for certain provisions and rejected defendants' proposals, clarifying the scope and application of the order.

Missouri Failed to Collect $12.2M in Medicaid Drug Rebates

The HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) found that Missouri failed to collect $12.2 million in federal rebates for Medicaid physician-administered and pharmacy drugs between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2022. The OIG recommends Missouri refund the federal government $9.7 million for physician-administered drugs and $2.5 million for pharmacy drugs.

EDPB Adopts 2026-2027 Work Programme for GDPR Compliance

The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has adopted its work programme for 2026-2027, focusing on making GDPR compliance easier. Key initiatives include developing ready-to-use templates for organizations on legitimate interest assessments, records of processing activities, and privacy notices.

Mississippi man charged with civil rights and arson offenses

Mississippi man charged with civil rights and arson offenses

Five plead guilty to drug trafficking, bank fraud, mail theft conspiracy

Five plead guilty to drug trafficking, bank fraud, mail theft conspiracy

Third leader charged in multi-state forced labor conspiracy

Third leader charged in multi-state forced labor conspiracy

Owner pleads guilty to failing to pay employment taxes

Owner pleads guilty to failing to pay employment taxes

Two indicted in Chicago for $10M health care fraud scheme

Two indicted in Chicago for $10M health care fraud scheme

Gang members sentenced to eight years for RICO conspiracy

Gang members sentenced to eight years for RICO conspiracy

Jacksonville drug leader sentenced 35 years for drug, shooting

Jacksonville drug leader sentenced 35 years for drug, shooting

Twenty gang members arrested for racketeering, murder, drug trafficking

Twenty gang members arrested for racketeering, murder, drug trafficking

Arboretum Mortgage Corp. License Revoked and Fined $27,425

The Washington Department of Financial Institutions has revoked the mortgage broker license of Arboretum Mortgage Corporation and imposed a fine of $27,425 for violations of the Mortgage Broker Practices Act. The company also must pay an investigation fee of $2,719.20.

Chandrruangphen v. City Of Sammamish - Court Opinion

The Supreme Court of the State of Washington filed an opinion in the case of Chandrruangphen v. City Of Sammamish on February 12, 2026. The case originated from King County Superior Court, with a judgment date of August 28, 2023. The opinion details the court's ruling and any dissenting or concurring opinions.

Guardianship of D.J.S. - Washington Court of Appeals Opinion

The Washington Court of Appeals has issued an opinion in the case In the Matter of the Guardianship of D.J.S. The opinion was filed on February 12, 2026, under docket number 40684-9. This is an informational update on a court proceeding.

Idaho Children's School Act Preliminary Injunction Challenge

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is reviewing a challenge to a preliminary injunction concerning the Idaho Children's School Act. This legal challenge will determine the future application and potential modifications of the Act's provisions regarding educational institutions within Idaho.

Labor Recovers Back Wages and Penalties from Denver Restaurant

The U.S. Department of Labor recovered $61,568 in back wages for 11 Denver restaurant workers after an investigation found Tommy's Oriental Food Inc. unlawfully kept employee tips. The employer also paid a $990 civil penalty for Fair Labor Standards Act violations.

Labor Department Orders Texas Companies to Pay $200K+ for Asbestos Whistleblower Retaliation

The U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA has ordered two Texas construction companies to pay over $200,000 in back wages and damages to two workers fired for raising asbestos concerns. The companies must also reinstate the employees.

State Revokes/Suspends Health Care Provider Licenses

The Washington State Department of Health has revoked or suspended the licenses, certifications, or registrations of four health care providers due to findings of neglect or abuse of vulnerable adults. These actions prohibit the individuals from practicing or having unsupervised access to vulnerable populations.

AI Code of Practice Taskforce Established for Implementation

Signatories to the EU's General-Purpose AI Code of Practice held their first meeting on January 30, 2026, to establish a Taskforce for implementation exchanges. The Taskforce will facilitate discussions among signatories on implementing the code and can provide input on guidance documents.

DOJ OIG: FBI Assistant Section Chief Misconduct Findings

The DOJ Office of the Inspector General has released an investigative summary detailing findings of misconduct against an FBI Assistant Section Chief. The report, number 26-022, addresses the exhibition of a firearm and a lack of candor by the individual. This report is part of the DOJ's ongoing oversight of its components.

Paul Schultz's Petition for Writ of Mandamus Denied

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals denied Paul Schultz's petition for a writ of mandamus. The court found that mandamus relief is not appropriate as a substitute for appeal and that Schultz did not demonstrate a clear right to the relief sought. The petition and a related stay motion were denied.

Paul Schultz Petition for Writ of Mandamus Denied

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals denied Paul Schultz's petition for a writ of mandamus. The court found that mandamus relief was not appropriate as a substitute for appeal and that Schultz had not demonstrated a clear right to the relief sought. The petition and a motion for a stay were denied.

Florida AG Charges Six in $7.8M Cargo Theft Ring

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced charges against six individuals for their involvement in an organized cargo theft ring responsible for 33 incidents and approximately $7.8 million in losses across the state. The charges include Grand Theft and Conspiracy to Commit Grand Theft.

FTC Warns Apple CEO Over Alleged Bias in Apple News Content

The FTC has issued a warning letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook regarding alleged bias in Apple News content. The letter states that if Apple misrepresents its news service or violates its terms of service, it could be in violation of the FTC Act.

FTC Finalizes Order Against Adamas for No-Hire Agreements

The FTC has finalized a consent order against Adamas Amenity Services LLC, requiring the company to cease enforcing no-hire agreements. These agreements restricted building owners from hiring Adamas's employees without penalty, impacting wage and job growth for workers in New Jersey and New York City.