GAO Report: HHS Emergency Preparedness Programs Lack Coordination

The GAO has released a report highlighting a lack of coordination between the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) and Hospital Preparedness Program (HPP). The report notes that HHS awarded nearly $900 million in FY2024 to states and localities for these programs but lacks formal mechanisms for coordination, potentially leading to inefficiencies and reduced preparedness.

National Angel Family Day Proclamation

The President proclaimed February 23, 2026, as National Angel Family Day to honor victims of illegal immigration and recommit to mass deportation efforts. The proclamation highlights specific cases and reiterates the administration's stance on border security and immigration enforcement.

ESMA Consultation on CCP Collateral and Investment Policy

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a consultation paper regarding guarantees as collateral for Central Counterparties (CCPs) and certain aspects of their investment policies. The consultation seeks feedback on proposed changes to the regulatory framework governing CCPs.

State Disciplines Health Care Providers for Misconduct

The Washington State Department of Health has disciplined six healthcare providers for misconduct and substance use. Actions include denial of applications, charges of unprofessional conduct, and agreed orders to cease practice, with one provider fined $500.

SEC Files Settled Action Against Former CEO and Consultant for False Press Release

The SEC filed a settled action against former Edison Nation CEO Christopher B. Ferguson and consultant Brian P. McFadden for allegedly disseminating a false press release regarding PPE purchase orders. Ferguson and McFadden consented to permanent injunctions, civil penalties of $50,000 each, and officer/director bars.

Shea v. United States - Appeal of Criminal Rulings

The First Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed two lower court rulings concerning Anthony M. Shea's criminal convictions. Shea challenged the denial of his motion to vacate convictions for violating 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) and an amended judgment resentencing him. The court affirmed both judgments.

H&M Fined for GDPR Marketing Violations

The Swedish Agency for Privacy Protection (IMY) has fined H&M SEK 350,000 for violating GDPR. The company failed to properly handle requests from individuals wishing to opt out of direct marketing, making it unnecessarily difficult for them to exercise their rights.

GDPR Fines Issued for Google Analytics Use

The Swedish Authority for Privacy Protection (IMY) has fined two companies and ordered three others to stop using Google Analytics due to non-compliance with GDPR regarding personal data transfers to the US. Fines total 12.3 million SEK.

Heinz v. Meta Platforms, Inc. et al - Product Liability Lawsuit

A product liability lawsuit, Heinz v. Meta Platforms, Inc. et al, was filed on February 23, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The complaint names Meta Platforms, Inc., ByteDance Inc., Google LLC, and Snap Inc. among other defendants, alleging personal injury related to their products.

Taylor v. Local Union 510 et al - Labor Dispute

A new civil case, Taylor v. Local Union 510 et al, was filed on February 23, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The case involves a labor dispute and includes a motion for preliminary injunction. The filing fee was $405.