ICO Decision Notice: FOI exemption for parking machine data upheld

The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has issued a decision notice regarding a Freedom of Information (FOI) complaint against East Riding of Yorkshire Council. The ICO found that the council correctly applied the law enforcement exemption (FOI 31(1)(a)) to withhold parking machine data, and the public interest favors maintaining this exemption.

Rabid Bat Confirmed in Aiken County, SC

The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed a rabid bat in Aiken County, with one dog exposed and quarantined. This is the second animal in Aiken County and the 18th statewide this year to test positive for rabies.

Trauma Advisory Council Data and PI Subcommittee Meeting Announcement

The South Carolina Department of Public Health announced that the Trauma Advisory Council Data and PI Subcommittee will hold a virtual meeting on March 20, 2026. The agenda and meeting link are available on the event page.

Hometown Health Heroes Honored for Contributions to Michigan Residents

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced the 2026 Hometown Health Hero Award winners for their contributions to public health. Ten individuals and organizations were recognized for improving the health and well-being of Michigan residents.

MDHHS Public Hearing on Weatherization Plan

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is hosting a public hearing on its 2026 Weatherization Assistance Program State Plan. The plan covers July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and includes updates to subgrantees, technical documents, and training plans.

State Department Expands Visa Bonds to Combat Illegal Overstays

The State Department is expanding its visa bond program to include 12 additional countries, bringing the total to 50. Effective April 2, 2026, nationals from these countries will be required to post a $15,000 bond for B1/B2 visas to combat illegal overstays. This expansion aims to reduce overstay rates and save taxpayer dollars.

US Special Envoy Gor Travels to Sri Lanka and Maldives

The U.S. Department of State announced that Special Envoy Sergio Gor will travel to Sri Lanka and Maldives from March 19-24, 2026. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relationships, advance cooperation in the Indian Ocean region, and support shared commitments to regional security and stability.

US, DRC, Rwanda Joint Statement on Washington Accords

The United States, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Rwanda issued a joint statement on March 18, 2026, outlining concrete steps to advance the Washington Accords. The statement details mutual commitments to de-escalate tensions, support sovereignty, disengage forces, and neutralize threats.

Fifth Circuit Opinion: Instant Brands Acquisition Holdings Inc. Bankruptcy

The Fifth Circuit affirmed a lower court's decision in the Instant Brands Acquisition Holdings Inc. bankruptcy case. Midea, a manufacturer, objected to Corelle's reorganization plan regarding post-bankruptcy indemnification rights for products purchased under completed orders. The court found that individual purchase orders, including their indemnification rights, were severable from the master supply agreement.

Powley v. Bisignano - Social Security Disability Benefits Appeal

The Ninth Circuit reversed a district court's decision affirming the denial of disability benefits, remanding the case to the Social Security Administration. The court found the Administrative Law Judge erred by failing to address discrepancies between claimant job evidence and vocational expert testimony.