NY Executive Order Extends Disaster Emergency for Healthcare Staffing Shortages

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has extended the declaration of a disaster emergency due to healthcare staffing shortages, specifically citing a nursing strike. The extension, effective February 4, 2026, continues the provisions of Executive Order 56 through February 6, 2026, in Bronx, New York, and contiguous counties.

New York Extends Healthcare Staffing Shortage Disaster Emergency

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has extended the declaration of a disaster emergency due to healthcare staffing shortages through February 8, 2026. This extension continues the provisions of Executive Order 56, which was initially issued to address a strike by nursing personnel and its impact on hospital staffing levels.

New York Executive Order Extending Healthcare Staffing Shortage Disaster Emergency

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has extended the declaration of a disaster emergency due to healthcare staffing shortages until February 10, 2026. This extension continues the terms and suspensions of a prior executive order aimed at ensuring continuity of care during a nursing strike.

New York Executive Order Extending Disaster Emergency Due to Healthcare Staffing Shortages

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has extended the declaration of a disaster emergency due to healthcare staffing shortages caused by a nursing strike. The extension, through February 12, 2026, continues the terms and suspensions outlined in Executive Order 56 for Bronx, New York, and contiguous counties.

New York Executive Order Extends Healthcare Staffing Disaster Emergency

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has extended the declaration of a disaster emergency due to healthcare staffing shortages through February 17, 2026. This extension continues the terms and suspensions of Executive Order 56, originally issued to address a nursing strike impacting hospital care.

FTC Orders Adamas to Cease No-Hire Agreements

The FTC has ordered Adamas Amenity Services LLC and its affiliates to cease enforcing anticompetitive no-hire agreements. These agreements restricted building owners and management companies from hiring workers employed by Adamas. The final consent order was issued on February 12, 2026.

27 charged with murder, sex trafficking, kidnapping, racketeering

27 charged with murder, sex trafficking, kidnapping, racketeering

Orlando tax preparers enjoined from preparing others' returns

Orlando tax preparers enjoined from preparing others' returns

Justice Department investigates Lincoln Memorial University for discrimination against Jewish students

Justice Department investigates Lincoln Memorial University for discrimination against Jewish students

Antero Resources agrees to settlement reducing air pollution

Antero Resources agrees to settlement reducing air pollution

Justice Department sues Harvard for withholding admissions data

Justice Department sues Harvard for withholding admissions data

Final two gang members convicted jury brazen racketeering murder

Final two gang members convicted jury brazen racketeering murder

Colombian robbery crew member pleads guilty to $5 million jewelry theft

Colombian robbery crew member pleads guilty to $5 million jewelry theft

GAO Report on FAA Drone Communication and Avoidance Planning

The GAO released a report highlighting the FAA's progress and shortcomings in developing two-way communication and detect-and-avoid technologies for drones. The report recommends the FAA establish clear roles and milestones to ensure drones can safely communicate with and avoid other aircraft.

Arboretum Mortgage Corp Fined and License Revoked

The Washington Department of Financial Institutions has issued a consent order against Arboretum Mortgage Corporation, requiring a fine of $27,425 and an investigation fee of $2,719.20. The company's mortgage broker license is revoked, and its ability to participate in the industry is restricted until February 6, 2029, subject to compliance with the order.

State of Washington v. Joel John Sarysz - Consumer Loan Act Violations

The State of Washington Department of Financial Institutions has issued a consent order against Joel John Sarysz for violations of the Consumer Loan Act. Sarysz is fined $25,500 and prohibited from the mortgage broker and consumer loan industries in Washington until February 10, 2034.

First Lady Remarks on Love of Country and Family to Armed Forces

First Lady Melania Trump delivered remarks to military families and service members at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on February 13, 2026. She spoke about the historical significance of love letters in symbolizing patriotism and family devotion within the U.S. military community.

Court Remanded for New Trial Due to Peremptory Challenge Errors

The California Court of Appeal remanded a case for a new trial, finding that the trial court erred in its handling of peremptory challenges. This decision highlights potential procedural errors in jury selection that could lead to appeals and retrials.

California Supreme Court Modifies People v. Dixon Opinion

The California Supreme Court has modified its previous opinion in the case of People v. Dixon. The court has remanded the case back to a lower court for a hearing, indicating a procedural adjustment rather than a substantive change in law.

CA Supreme Court: Forum Clause Unenforceable Under Song-Beverly Act

The California Supreme Court ruled that forum selection clauses in consumer contracts are unenforceable under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act if they require litigation outside of California. This decision impacts how businesses draft consumer agreements and handle disputes involving California residents.

MHRA Seizes 20 Million Illegal ED Pills, Warns Against Online Buys

The MHRA announced the seizure of nearly 20 million illegal erectile dysfunction pills between 2021 and 2025, including 4.4 million in 2025 alone. The agency is warning the public against purchasing unauthorized medicines online due to significant health risks.

Bates v. Pakseresht - 9th Circuit Opinion

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has issued an opinion in the case of Bates v. Pakseresht. This filing represents a judicial decision on a legal matter, contributing to the body of case law.

State Disciplines Healthcare Providers

The Washington State Department of Health has taken disciplinary actions against 11 healthcare providers, including denying applications, charging with unprofessional conduct, and placing credentials on probation. These actions are based on convictions, failure to comply with stipulations, and other professional misconduct.

Florida Governor Declares State of Emergency for 67 Counties due to Winter Weather and Drought

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 67 counties due to severe winter weather, drought, and increased wildfire activity. The order facilitates emergency harvests and relaxes restrictions on commercial vehicles to transport vulnerable crops.

Executive Order 26-31: Extension of State Attorney Assignment

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 26-31, extending the assignment of State Attorney Brian Haas for one year, until January 19, 2027. This extension is necessary to complete duties related to charges pending against Donald Seoane.

Executive Order 26-30: Extension of Attorney Assignment

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 26-30, extending the assignment of State Attorney Ginger Bowden Madden for one year until December 17, 2026. This extension is necessary to complete duties related to an ongoing case involving Sonya Faye Lowe.

Executive Order 26-32 Extension of State Attorney Executive Assignment

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has extended Executive Order 26-32, continuing the assignment of the State Attorney for the Eleventh Judicial Circuit to represent the State concerning charges pending against John Tyler Roberts and Sarah Drew Diaz. The extension is for one year, until January 27, 2027.

Executive Order 26-29: Extension of State Attorney Executive Assignment

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 26-29, extending the assignment of State Attorney John F. Durrett for one year, until January 18, 2027. This extension is necessary to complete duties related to charges pending against Timothy Smith.

Soscia Holdings LLC v. State of Rhode Island - Appeal

The First Circuit Court of Appeals issued an opinion in the case of Soscia Holdings, LLC v. State of Rhode Island. The appeal concerns claims arising from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management's actions regarding a dam's water flow and the assessment of civil penalties. The court addressed dismissals of federal and state claims.

AG Uthmeier Secures Convictions in Multi-Million Dollar Retail Theft Scheme

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the conviction of Robert and Jaclyn Dell for operating a multi-million dollar organized retail theft scheme. The scheme involved stealing power tools from The Home Depot under the guise of a drug addiction recovery center. The convictions were secured by the Office of Statewide Prosecution.

State AG Announces Gang Takedown and Drug Seizure

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced a multi-circuit drug trafficking investigation targeting affiliates of the Valentine Bloods gang. The operation resulted in 51 arrests and the seizure of over 70 pounds of meth and 10 pounds of fentanyl.

Fulton v. State of Delaware - Compassionate Release Application Denied

The Delaware Superior Court summarily denied Gene L. Fulton's application for compassionate release. The court found that Fulton did not meet the statutory requirements for release under 11 Del. C. § 4217, as he had not yet served the mandatory portion of his sentence and had behavioral management concerns.

State of Delaware v. Bradley Green - Exclusion of Expert Testimony

In a criminal case involving child sexual abuse allegations, the Delaware Superior Court ruled on the exclusion of expert testimony. The court considered whether the proposed expert's testimony would impermissibly comment on witness credibility and addressed gatekeeping functions regarding relevance and reliability.

Truitt v. Winder - Prejudgment Interest Allocation Opinion

The Delaware Superior Court issued an opinion in Truitt v. Winder regarding the allocation of prejudgment interest between two defendants in a wrongful death case. The court vacated a portion of the jury's award for pain and suffering but upheld other damages and interest allocations.

VDH Issues Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has issued a recreational water advisory for a 72.5-mile stretch of the Potomac River due to sewage spills reported on January 19 and February 7, 2026. Residents are advised to avoid water contact activities for an estimated four to six weeks while repairs are underway.

Virginia Health Department Offers Free Condoms and STI Prevention Information

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reminding residents about the availability of free condoms and resources for STI prevention, including PrEP and DoxyPEP, in conjunction with Valentine's Day and National Condom Day. The notice highlights rising STI rates in Virginia, particularly syphilis, and provides information on where to access these services.

Chesterfield Health District Promotes Blood Pressure Screening and Coaching

The Chesterfield Health District is promoting the importance of blood pressure screening during American Heart Month. They are offering a coaching program called 'My Blood Pressure, My Health' for low-income adults with high blood pressure, providing monitoring tools and education.

Health District Offers Cancer Risk Reduction Tips

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District has issued guidance on cancer risk reduction tips in observance of National Cancer Prevention Month. The notice outlines lifestyle choices and screening recommendations to help residents lower their risk of developing cancer.

Environment Agency Expands Water Pollution Enforcement Teams

The Environment Agency has significantly expanded its water pollution enforcement workforce, adding five new teams in the Anglian area. This initiative aims to increase inspections and deliver tougher action against water companies, backed by a record budget and a 'polluter pays' approach.

Delaware Court of Chancery Opinion on Exceptions

The Delaware Court of Chancery issued an opinion on exceptions to a Magistrate in Chancery's report concerning a books and records action. The case involves a dispute over anti-dilution protections for an investment in Outlander Gamma 5.2, LLC.

Delaware Supreme Court - Breach of Contract and Negligence

The Delaware Supreme Court reversed and remanded a lower court's dismissal of breach of contract claims filed by insurers against Blackbaud, Inc. The insurers, as subrogees and assignees, alleged Blackbaud failed to protect client data after a ransomware attack. The court found the amended complaints adequately pled a breach of contract claim.

Supreme Court affirms arbitration of bad-faith breach claims

The Delaware Supreme Court affirmed a lower court's decision compelling arbitration of bad-faith breach of contract claims related to a post-closing earn-out payment. The court found that the seller representative's claims fell within the scope of the arbitration provision in the merger agreement.

Executive Order 604: Establishes Office of Climate Innovation and Resilience

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has issued Executive Order 604, establishing the Office of Climate Innovation and Resilience within the Office of the Governor. This new office will focus on coordinating and advancing the state's climate change initiatives.

Executive Order No. 605: Working Group for Housing Secretariat

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has issued Executive Order No. 605, establishing a working group to explore the creation of a new Housing Secretariat. This order aims to streamline housing policy and initiatives within the state government.

Executive Order 606: Governor's Council on Black Empowerment

Governor Maura Healey has established the Governor's Council on Black Empowerment through Executive Order 606. This council will advise the Governor on policies and initiatives to advance equity and opportunity for Black residents in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Executive Order 607 Rescinding Executive Order 595

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has issued Executive Order 607, rescinding Executive Order 595. This action removes a previous executive order from the state's legal framework.

Executive Order 608: Governor's Council on Latino Empowerment

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has established the Governor's Council on Latino Empowerment through Executive Order 608. This order aims to foster greater inclusion and address the needs of the Latino community within the state.

ICO Decision Notice: BBC FOI Request on Spanish PM Title

The ICO has issued a decision notice regarding a BBC Freedom of Information (FOI) request concerning the Spanish Prime Minister's title. The ICO upheld the BBC's position that the information, if held, is for journalistic purposes and therefore exempt from FOIA.

ICO Decision on Ealing Council EIR and Personal Data

The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) issued a decision regarding Ealing Council's handling of an Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) request. The ICO found that the Council correctly withheld information under regulation 13 (third party personal data) and did not require further steps.

ICO Decision Notice: Cornwall Council EIR Complaints

The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) issued a decision notice regarding complaints against Cornwall Council concerning the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR). The ICO found that while the council disclosed all requested information, it failed to do so within the statutory timeframe and that its internal review was late.