MOREAU, N.Y. (AP) — A 9-year-old girl who vanished during a family camping trip in upstate New York was “safe and in good health” Monday after a massive two-day search ended with her rescue and an arrest of a person suspected in her abduction, police said.

Charlotte Sena disappeared while riding her bike early Saturday evening at Moreau Lake State Park, a heavily wooded park some 35 miles north of Albany. Police on Monday searched multiple residences linked to a suspect, who investigators believed had been in the area around the time the girl went missing.

Gov. Kathy Hochul told Spectrum News that investigators were able to identify fingerprints from a ransom note.

Charlotte was found at about 6:30 p.m., according to state police. The suspect, who was taken into custody, has not been identified by authorities.

“We are overjoyed at the news that Charlotte Sena has been located safely this evening after an intense days-long search,” Hochul said in a prepared statement. “Our hearts are with her family as they welcome her home.”

Authorities said it was still an active investigation and didn’t immediately release further details, but promised more information at a news conference Tuesday.

The rescue marked the end of an intense search. About 400 people took part in the hunt for the girl Monday, including forest rangers, police officers and firefighters. The search had expanded over 46 linear miles (74 linear kilometers).

Charlotte, a fourth grader from nearby Greenfield, had been riding her bike around a campsite loop in the park with other children when she decided to ride around one more time by herself. Her parents became alarmed when she failed to return after 15 minutes, Hochul said at a briefing Sunday.

The girl’s mother called 911 after her bicycle was found at around 6:45 p.m. Saturday.

Officials issued an Amber Alert on Sunday morning after an exhaustive search because “it was quite possible that an abduction had taken place,” state police Lt. Colonel Richard Mazzone said. The alert described her as a white girl with blonde hair and green eyes who is about 4 feet 6 inches tall (1.37 meters).

The girl’s family pleaded with the public for help in finding Charlotte, including providing any tips to the state police.

“We just want her returned safely like any parent would,” the family said in a statement earlier Monday. “No tip is too small, please call if you know anything at all.”

Troopers had set up several checkpoints on the winding, rural roads around the park. They stopped drivers and asked if they knew the family, had seen the girl’s photo or had any other information that could help the search. They also had some drivers open their trunks.

The park remained closed because of the search, and officials asked members of the public who showed up hoping to help to stay away and leave the search to professionals. Federal authorities also issued a temporary flight restriction over the park for the safety of law enforcement air operations.

The Corinth Central School District said it had extra counselors at Charlotte’s elementary school for any students or staff who need support.

“Our hearts go out to the Sena family,” the district said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696290494329.png" alt="Charlotte Sena-photo NY Amber Alert" />
 <figcaption>Charlotte Sena-photo NY Amber Alert</figcaption>
 </figure>MOREAU, N.Y. (AP) — A 9-year-old girl who vanished during a family camping trip in upstate New York was “safe and in good health” Monday after a massive two-day search ended with her rescue and an arrest of a person suspected in her abduction, police said.Charlotte Sena disappeared while riding her bike early Saturday evening at Moreau Lake State Park, a heavily wooded park some 35 miles north of Albany. Police on Monday searched multiple residences linked to a suspect, who investigators believed had been in the area around the time the girl went missing.Gov. Kathy Hochul told Spectrum News that investigators were able to identify fingerprints from a ransom note.Charlotte was found at about 6:30 p.m., according to state police. The suspect, who was taken into custody, has not been identified by authorities.“We are overjoyed at the news that Charlotte Sena has been located safely this evening after an intense days-long search,” Hochul said in a prepared statement. “Our hearts are with her family as they welcome her home.”Authorities said it was still an active investigation and didn’t immediately release further details, but promised more information at a news conference Tuesday.The rescue marked the end of an intense search. About 400 people took part in the hunt for the girl Monday, including forest rangers, police officers and firefighters. The search had expanded over 46 linear miles (74 linear kilometers).Charlotte, a fourth grader from nearby Greenfield, had been riding her bike around a campsite loop in the park with other children when she decided to ride around one more time by herself. Her parents became alarmed when she failed to return after 15 minutes, Hochul said at a briefing Sunday.The girl’s mother called 911 after her bicycle was found at around 6:45 p.m. Saturday.Officials issued an Amber Alert on Sunday morning after an exhaustive search because “it was quite possible that an abduction had taken place,” state police Lt. Colonel Richard Mazzone said. The alert described her as a white girl with blonde hair and green eyes who is about 4 feet 6 inches tall (1.37 meters).The girl’s family pleaded with the public for help in finding Charlotte, including providing any tips to the state police.“We just want her returned safely like any parent would,” the family said in a statement earlier Monday. “No tip is too small, please call if you know anything at all.”Troopers had set up several checkpoints on the winding, rural roads around the park. They stopped drivers and asked if they knew the family, had seen the girl’s photo or had any other information that could help the search. They also had some drivers open their trunks.The park remained closed because of the search, and officials asked members of the public who showed up hoping to help to stay away and leave the search to professionals. Federal authorities also issued a temporary flight restriction over the park for the safety of law enforcement air operations.The Corinth Central School District said it had extra counselors at Charlotte’s elementary school for any students or staff who need support.“Our hearts go out to the Sena family,” the district said in a statement.---------------

Police: 9-year-old girl who vanished from state park found safe

OCTOBER 2, 2023 (GRAND ISLAND, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol took two minors into custody early Saturday morning following a pursuit in central Nebraska.

At approximately 11:45 p.m. Friday, a trooper observed a Jeep Liberty speeding on Interstate 80 near Gibbon, at mile marker 286. The Jeep pulled over to the shoulder, but the driver accelerated when the trooper exited his patrol unit. The vehicle fled eastbound in excess of 100 miles per hour. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The driver turned off all vehicle lights as it fled eastbound on I-80. Another trooper was able to successfully deploy stop sticks to slow the vehicle near mile marker 312. The Jeep then crossed the median and began traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of I-80. A trooper was able to quickly perform a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop.

The driver, identified as an 18-year-old male from Grand Island, was taken into custody without further incident. A female passenger fled from the vehicle on foot. The 15-year-old female from Grand Island was located a short time later and was transported to Cedars in Lincoln at the request of juvenile probation. The driver was lodged in Hall County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, no operator’s license, fictitious license plates, obstructing a peace officer, and several traffic violations.

Cody ThomasOCTOBER 2, 2023 (GRAND ISLAND, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol took two minors into custody early Saturday morning following a pursuit in central Nebraska.At approximately 11:45 p.m. Friday, a trooper observed a Jeep Liberty speeding on Interstate 80 near Gibbon, at mile marker 286. The Jeep pulled over to the shoulder, but the driver accelerated when the trooper exited his patrol unit. The vehicle fled eastbound in excess of 100 miles per hour. The trooper initiated a pursuit.The driver turned off all vehicle lights as it fled eastbound on I-80. Another trooper was able to successfully deploy stop sticks to slow the vehicle near mile marker 312. The Jeep then crossed the median and began traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of I-80. A trooper was able to quickly perform a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop.The driver, identified as an 18-year-old male from Grand Island, was taken into custody without further incident. A female passenger fled from the vehicle on foot. The 15-year-old female from Grand Island was located a short time later and was transported to Cedars in Lincoln at the request of juvenile probation. The driver was lodged in Hall County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, no operator’s license, fictitious license plates, obstructing a peace officer, and several traffic violations.

Two Minors in Custody Following Pursuit in Central Nebraska

NEW YORK (AP) — Aggrieved and defiant, former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;sat through hours of sometimes testy opening statements Monday in a fraud lawsuit that could cost him control of Trump Tower and other prized properties.

“Disgraceful trial,” he declared during a lunch break, after listening to lawyers for New York Attorney General Letitia James excoriate him as a habitual liar. The state's lawsuit accuses the business-mogul-turned-politician and his company of deceiving banks, insurers and others by misstating his wealth for years in financial statements.

“They were lying year after year after year,” Kevin Wallace, a lawyer in James' office, said as Trump sat at the defense table. He looked straight ahead, arms crossed, facing away from a screen that showed details of Wallace's presentation.

Defense lawyers, in response, said the financial statements were legitimate. Trump's holdings are "Mona Lisa properties" that can command top dollar, attorney Alina Habba said.

“That is not fraud. That is real estate," she said, accusing the attorney general's office of "setting a very dangerous precedent for all business owners in the state of New York.”

Trump voluntarily attended a trial that he called a “sham," a “scam,” a waste of the state's time and “a continuation of the single greatest witch hunt of all time.” Currently the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-presidential-candidates-who-is-running-e89fbfee94e7e7980594a9ce3994fec7">Republican front-runner</a>&nbsp;in the 2024 presidential race, he reiterated claims that James, a Democrat, is trying to thwart&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-presidential-candidates-who-is-running-e89fbfee94e7e7980594a9ce3994fec7">his bid to return to the White House</a>.

“What we have here is an attempt to hurt me in an election,” he said outside court, adding: “I don’t think the people of this country are going to stand for it.”

Trump sneered at James as he passed her on his way out at lunchtime; she, by turn, left smiling. Meanwhile, his campaign immediately began fundraising off the appearance.

Judge Arthur Engoron ruled last week that Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-letitia-james-fraud-lawsuit-1569245a9284427117b8d3ba5da74249">committed fraud in his business dealings</a>. If upheld on appeal, the ruling could force Trump to give up New York properties including Trump Tower, a Wall Street office building, golf courses and a suburban estate. Trump has called it a “a corporate death penalty” and insisted the judge is unfair and out to get him.

The non-jury trial concerns six remaining claims in the lawsuit, including allegations of conspiracy, falsifying business records and insurance fraud. Engoron said that neither side sought a jury and that state law doesn't allow for juries when suits seek not only money but a court order setting out something a defendant must do or not do.

James is seeking $250 million in penalties and a ban on Trump doing business in New York.

“No matter how powerful you are, and no matter how much money you think you have, no one is above the law," she said on her way into the courthouse.

Trump denies wrongdoing. He says that James and the judge are undervaluing such assets as his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, and he emphasizes that his financial statements had a disclaimer that says they shouldn’t be trusted. The yearly snapshots of his holdings were given to banks to secure loans and to financial magazines to justify his place among the world’s billionaires.

The former president, his two eldest sons, Trump Organization executives and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/michael-cohen">lawyer-turned-foe Michael Cohen</a>&nbsp;are all listed among dozens of potential witnesses.

Trump isn’t expected to testify for several weeks. His trip to court Monday marked a remarkable departure from his past practice.

Trump didn't go to court as either a witness or a spectator when his company and one of its top executives was convicted of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-legal-proceedings-new-york-city-donald-trump-manhattan-e2f1d01525dafb64be8738c8b4f32085">tax fraud</a>&nbsp;last year. He didn't show, either, for a civil trial earlier this year in which a jury found him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rape-carroll-trial-fe68259a4b98bb3947d42af9ec83d7db">liable for sexually assaulting the writer E. Jean Carroll</a>&nbsp;in a department store dressing room.

This time, “I wanted to watch this witch hunt myself,” he said outside court.

In a recent court filing, James' office alleged Trump exaggerated his wealth by as much as $3.6 billion.

He claimed his three-story Trump Tower penthouse, replete with gold-plated fixtures, was nearly three times its actual size and worth $327 million, far more than any New York City apartment ever has fetched, James said. He valued Mar-a-Lago as high as $739 million — more than 10 times a more reasonable estimate of its worth, James maintained.

“Every estimate was determined by Mr. Trump," Wallace said in his opening statement. He pointed to pretrial testimony by Trump Organization figures and ex-insiders including Cohen, who said the company estimated assets to get to a predetermined number “that Mr. Trump wanted.”

Wallace said the alleged scheme got the company better loan rates, saving it $100 million in interest.

“They hid their weaknesses and convinced these banks to take on hundreds of millions of dollars in risk," he said, adding: “While the defendants can exaggerate to Forbes magazine or on television, they cannot do it while conducting business in the state of New York.”

Trump lawyer Christopher Kise said defense experts will testify that assigning values to properties is, by nature, a matter of opinion.

“There is no such thing as objective valuation,” Kise said in an opening statement.

Any discrepancies in values don't amount to fraud, he said, and disclaimers on the financial statements made clear that these were estimates and that banks would have to perform their own analysis.

Trump and his lawyers have also argued that no one was harmed by anything in the financial statements. Banks that made loans to him were fully repaid. Business partners made money. And Trump's own company flourished.

Kise blasted last week’s fraud ruling, telling the judge he shouldn't have made a decision before hearing expert trial testimony on property valuations. Engoron, tiring of the defense’s criticism, shot back: “Respectfully, what’s that expression? You’re stalking the dead horse here.”

Testimony began Wednesday afternoon with Donald Bender, a longtime partner at accounting firm Mazars LLP, describing how he spent 50 to 60 hours a year preparing Trump's financial statements. Mazars&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-new-york-donald-trump-6949c069d081f7d79a987a72cb80af34">cut ties with Trump</a>&nbsp;last year after James’ office raised questions about the statements' reliability.

James’ lawsuit is one of several legal headaches for Trump as he campaigns to return to the White House. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-investigations-other-charges-b8b064a00caad4306fb54d2f6a320468">has been indicted four times</a>&nbsp;since March, accused of plotting to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden, hoarding classified documents and falsifying business records related to hush money paid on his behalf. He has pleaded not guilty to all the allegations.

The New York fraud trial is expected to last into December, Engoron said.

NEW YORK (AP) — Aggrieved and defiant, former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;sat through hours of sometimes testy opening statements Monday in a fraud lawsuit that could cost him control of Trump Tower and other prized properties.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Outside the NYC courtroom, former President Donald Trump said the judge assigned to the case was &quot;rogue&quot;, New York Attorney General Leticia James was &quot;racist,&quot; and the entire trial is a coordinated effort of the Biden Administration&#39;s Justice Department. <a href="https://t.co/AaFy7ESqaz">pic.twitter.com/AaFy7ESqaz</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1708943614636658907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Disgraceful trial,” he declared during a lunch break, after listening to lawyers for New York Attorney General Letitia James excoriate him as a habitual liar. The state's lawsuit accuses the business-mogul-turned-politician and his company of deceiving banks, insurers and others by misstating his wealth for years in financial statements.“They were lying year after year after year,” Kevin Wallace, a lawyer in James' office, said as Trump sat at the defense table. He looked straight ahead, arms crossed, facing away from a screen that showed details of Wallace's presentation.Defense lawyers, in response, said the financial statements were legitimate. Trump's holdings are "Mona Lisa properties" that can command top dollar, attorney Alina Habba said.“That is not fraud. That is real estate," she said, accusing the attorney general's office of "setting a very dangerous precedent for all business owners in the state of New York.”Trump voluntarily attended a trial that he called a “sham," a “scam,” a waste of the state's time and “a continuation of the single greatest witch hunt of all time.” Currently the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-presidential-candidates-who-is-running-e89fbfee94e7e7980594a9ce3994fec7">Republican front-runner</a>&nbsp;in the 2024 presidential race, he reiterated claims that James, a Democrat, is trying to thwart&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-presidential-candidates-who-is-running-e89fbfee94e7e7980594a9ce3994fec7">his bid to return to the White House</a>.“What we have here is an attempt to hurt me in an election,” he said outside court, adding: “I don’t think the people of this country are going to stand for it.”Trump sneered at James as he passed her on his way out at lunchtime; she, by turn, left smiling. Meanwhile, his campaign immediately began fundraising off the appearance.Judge Arthur Engoron ruled last week that Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-letitia-james-fraud-lawsuit-1569245a9284427117b8d3ba5da74249">committed fraud in his business dealings</a>. If upheld on appeal, the ruling could force Trump to give up New York properties including Trump Tower, a Wall Street office building, golf courses and a suburban estate. Trump has called it a “a corporate death penalty” and insisted the judge is unfair and out to get him.The non-jury trial concerns six remaining claims in the lawsuit, including allegations of conspiracy, falsifying business records and insurance fraud. Engoron said that neither side sought a jury and that state law doesn't allow for juries when suits seek not only money but a court order setting out something a defendant must do or not do.James is seeking $250 million in penalties and a ban on Trump doing business in New York.“No matter how powerful you are, and no matter how much money you think you have, no one is above the law," she said on her way into the courthouse.Trump denies wrongdoing. He says that James and the judge are undervaluing such assets as his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, and he emphasizes that his financial statements had a disclaimer that says they shouldn’t be trusted. The yearly snapshots of his holdings were given to banks to secure loans and to financial magazines to justify his place among the world’s billionaires.The former president, his two eldest sons, Trump Organization executives and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/michael-cohen">lawyer-turned-foe Michael Cohen</a>&nbsp;are all listed among dozens of potential witnesses.Trump isn’t expected to testify for several weeks. His trip to court Monday marked a remarkable departure from his past practice.Trump didn't go to court as either a witness or a spectator when his company and one of its top executives was convicted of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-legal-proceedings-new-york-city-donald-trump-manhattan-e2f1d01525dafb64be8738c8b4f32085">tax fraud</a>&nbsp;last year. He didn't show, either, for a civil trial earlier this year in which a jury found him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rape-carroll-trial-fe68259a4b98bb3947d42af9ec83d7db">liable for sexually assaulting the writer E. Jean Carroll</a>&nbsp;in a department store dressing room.This time, “I wanted to watch this witch hunt myself,” he said outside court.In a recent court filing, James' office alleged Trump exaggerated his wealth by as much as $3.6 billion.He claimed his three-story Trump Tower penthouse, replete with gold-plated fixtures, was nearly three times its actual size and worth $327 million, far more than any New York City apartment ever has fetched, James said. He valued Mar-a-Lago as high as $739 million — more than 10 times a more reasonable estimate of its worth, James maintained.“Every estimate was determined by Mr. Trump," Wallace said in his opening statement. He pointed to pretrial testimony by Trump Organization figures and ex-insiders including Cohen, who said the company estimated assets to get to a predetermined number “that Mr. Trump wanted.”Wallace said the alleged scheme got the company better loan rates, saving it $100 million in interest.“They hid their weaknesses and convinced these banks to take on hundreds of millions of dollars in risk," he said, adding: “While the defendants can exaggerate to Forbes magazine or on television, they cannot do it while conducting business in the state of New York.”Trump lawyer Christopher Kise said defense experts will testify that assigning values to properties is, by nature, a matter of opinion.“There is no such thing as objective valuation,” Kise said in an opening statement.Any discrepancies in values don't amount to fraud, he said, and disclaimers on the financial statements made clear that these were estimates and that banks would have to perform their own analysis.Trump and his lawyers have also argued that no one was harmed by anything in the financial statements. Banks that made loans to him were fully repaid. Business partners made money. And Trump's own company flourished.Kise blasted last week’s fraud ruling, telling the judge he shouldn't have made a decision before hearing expert trial testimony on property valuations. Engoron, tiring of the defense’s criticism, shot back: “Respectfully, what’s that expression? You’re stalking the dead horse here.”Testimony began Wednesday afternoon with Donald Bender, a longtime partner at accounting firm Mazars LLP, describing how he spent 50 to 60 hours a year preparing Trump's financial statements. Mazars&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-new-york-donald-trump-6949c069d081f7d79a987a72cb80af34">cut ties with Trump</a>&nbsp;last year after James’ office raised questions about the statements' reliability.James’ lawsuit is one of several legal headaches for Trump as he campaigns to return to the White House. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-investigations-other-charges-b8b064a00caad4306fb54d2f6a320468">has been indicted four times</a>&nbsp;since March, accused of plotting to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden, hoarding classified documents and falsifying business records related to hush money paid on his behalf. He has pleaded not guilty to all the allegations.The New York fraud trial is expected to last into December, Engoron said.

🎥 Trump attacks attorney general, judge ahead of fraud trial

LOS ANGELES (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom has selected Laphonza Butler, a Democratic strategist and adviser to Kamala Harris’ 2020 presidential campaign, to fill the U.S. Senate seat made vacant by the death of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dianne-feinstein-dead-c831f3228ac44faa9653234570bb8ce9#:~:text=politics%2C%20has%20died.-,She%20was%2090.,a%20giant%20in%20the%20Senate.%E2%80%9D">Sen. Dianne Feinstein</a>.

In choosing Butler on Sunday, Newsom fulfilled his pledge to appoint a Black woman if Feinstein’s seat became open. However, he had been facing pressure from some Black politicians and advocacy groups to select&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-government-senate-2022-midterm-elections-barbara-lee-0b9c08553e3eb13919c0b291fb785a8a">Barbara Lee</a>, a prominent Black congresswoman who is already running for the seat.

Butler will be the only Black woman serving in the U.S. Senate and the first openly LGBTQ+ person to represent California in the chamber.

Newsom said in a statement that the priorities Feinstein fought for in Congress — reproductive freedom, equal protection and safety from gun violence — were under assault in the nation. "Laphonza will carry the baton left by Sen. Feinstein (and) continue to break glass ceilings and fight for all Californians in Washington D.C.,” he said.

Butler leads Emily’s List, a political organization that supports Democratic women candidates who favor abortion rights. She also is a former labor leader with SEIU 2015, a powerful force in California politics.

Her appointment sets up a potentially tricky political calculus in the crowded 2024 contest to succeed Feinstein, which has been underway since the beginning of the year.

Newsom spokesman Anthony York said the governor did not ask Butler to commit to staying out of the race. The deadline for candidates to submit paperwork to seek the office is Dec. 8. Should Butler enter the contest, she could set up a competition for the relatively small but influential group of Black voters in California and possibly undercut Lee's chances.

Emily's List is known as a fundraising powerhouse, and raising huge sums of campaign cash is a must in any statewide California race. Newsom's statement said she will step down from the organization.

The decision carried the threat of political fallout for Newsom, who is seen as a potential future national candidate. The candidate favored by Black voters has won the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination every cycle since 1992. The Congressional Black Caucus was among the groups and Black politicians that had urged Newsom to appoint Lee, calling her the best qualified choice for the post.

The long-serving Feinstein&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dianne-feinstein-death-legacy-senate-women-tributes-37e8ba38f4cac4ebbe25d31a49e29c75">died Thursday</a>&nbsp;at age 90 after a series of illnesses.

Butler currently lives in Maryland, according to her Emily's List biography. Izzy Gardon, a spokesman for Newsom, said Butler owns a home in California. She is expected to reregister to vote in California before being sworn in. That could happen as early as Tuesday evening when the Senate returns to session.

Butler said Monday she she had accepted Newsom's nomination to serve “a state I have made my home."

“No one will ever measure up to the legacy of Sen. Dianne Feinstein, but I will do my best to honor her legacy and leadership by committing to work for women and girls, workers and unions, struggling parents, and all of California. I am ready to serve,” she said.

Democrats control the Senate 51-49, though Feinstein’s seat is vacant. A quick appointment by Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/feinstein-death-vacant-seat-senate-shutdown-a00cbe7adbf3f80a5ce6aa621f2f3ac9">will give the Democratic caucus more wiggle room</a>&nbsp;on close votes, including nominations that Republicans uniformly oppose.

Feinstein, the oldest member of Congress and the longest-serving woman in the Senate, said in February she would not seek reelection in 2024. Lee is one of several prominent Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-california-state-government-united-states-senate-donald-trump-5426f7c2539d14210f098bf7f8c0d9d7">competing for the seat</a>, including Democratic U.S. Reps. Katie Porter and Adam Schiff. Newsom said he did not want to appoint any of the candidates because it would give them an unfair advantage in the race.

Butler has never held elected office but has a long track record in California politics. She served as a senior adviser to Harris's 2020 presidential campaign while working at a political firm filled with strategists who have worked for Newsom and many other prominent state Democrats. She also briefly worked in the private sector for Airbnb.

She called Feinstein “a legendary figure for women in politics and around the country,” in a statement posted after Feinstein's death.

Emily's List, the group Butler leads, focuses on electing Democratic women who support abortion rights. With the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn women's constitutional right to abortion, the issue has become a galvanizing one for many Democrats.

Equality California, the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, said the appointment “will give our ... community another voice in Congress at a time when our rights and freedoms are under attack across the country.”

It’s not Newsom’s first time selecting a U.S. senator, after being tasked with choosing a replacement for Kamala Harris when she was elected vice president; at that time he selected California Secretary of State Alex Padilla for the post. It was one of a string of appointments Newsom made in late 2020 and early 2021, a power that gave him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-sacramento-california-gavin-newsom-kamala-harris-983ab328c56768cd0c87a28fcc59870c">kingmaker status</a>&nbsp;among the state’s ambitious Democrats.

The seat is expected to stay in Democratic hands in the 2024 election. Democrats in the liberal-leaning state have not lost a statewide election since 2006, and the party holds a nearly 2-to-1 voter registration advantage over Republicans.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom has selected Laphonza Butler, a Democratic strategist and adviser to Kamala Harris’ 2020 presidential campaign, to fill the U.S. Senate seat made vacant by the death of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dianne-feinstein-dead-c831f3228ac44faa9653234570bb8ce9#:~:text=politics%2C%20has%20died.-,She%20was%2090.,a%20giant%20in%20the%20Senate.%E2%80%9D">Sen. Dianne Feinstein</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I&#39;m proud to announce California&#39;s new United States Senator -- Laphonza Butler. As we mourn the enormous loss of Sen. Feinstein, the very freedoms she fought for -- reproductive freedom, equal protection, and safety from gun violence -- have never been under greater assault.… <a href="https://t.co/SOnbfVPmXj">pic.twitter.com/SOnbfVPmXj</a>&mdash; Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) <a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1708699205206933871?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In choosing Butler on Sunday, Newsom fulfilled his pledge to appoint a Black woman if Feinstein’s seat became open. However, he had been facing pressure from some Black politicians and advocacy groups to select&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-government-senate-2022-midterm-elections-barbara-lee-0b9c08553e3eb13919c0b291fb785a8a">Barbara Lee</a>, a prominent Black congresswoman who is already running for the seat.Butler will be the only Black woman serving in the U.S. Senate and the first openly LGBTQ+ person to represent California in the chamber.Newsom said in a statement that the priorities Feinstein fought for in Congress — reproductive freedom, equal protection and safety from gun violence — were under assault in the nation. "Laphonza will carry the baton left by Sen. Feinstein (and) continue to break glass ceilings and fight for all Californians in Washington D.C.,” he said.Butler leads Emily’s List, a political organization that supports Democratic women candidates who favor abortion rights. She also is a former labor leader with SEIU 2015, a powerful force in California politics.Her appointment sets up a potentially tricky political calculus in the crowded 2024 contest to succeed Feinstein, which has been underway since the beginning of the year.Newsom spokesman Anthony York said the governor did not ask Butler to commit to staying out of the race. The deadline for candidates to submit paperwork to seek the office is Dec. 8. Should Butler enter the contest, she could set up a competition for the relatively small but influential group of Black voters in California and possibly undercut Lee's chances.Emily's List is known as a fundraising powerhouse, and raising huge sums of campaign cash is a must in any statewide California race. Newsom's statement said she will step down from the organization.The decision carried the threat of political fallout for Newsom, who is seen as a potential future national candidate. The candidate favored by Black voters has won the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination every cycle since 1992. The Congressional Black Caucus was among the groups and Black politicians that had urged Newsom to appoint Lee, calling her the best qualified choice for the post.The long-serving Feinstein&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dianne-feinstein-death-legacy-senate-women-tributes-37e8ba38f4cac4ebbe25d31a49e29c75">died Thursday</a>&nbsp;at age 90 after a series of illnesses.Butler currently lives in Maryland, according to her Emily's List biography. Izzy Gardon, a spokesman for Newsom, said Butler owns a home in California. She is expected to reregister to vote in California before being sworn in. That could happen as early as Tuesday evening when the Senate returns to session.Butler said Monday she she had accepted Newsom's nomination to serve “a state I have made my home."“No one will ever measure up to the legacy of Sen. Dianne Feinstein, but I will do my best to honor her legacy and leadership by committing to work for women and girls, workers and unions, struggling parents, and all of California. I am ready to serve,” she said.Democrats control the Senate 51-49, though Feinstein’s seat is vacant. A quick appointment by Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/feinstein-death-vacant-seat-senate-shutdown-a00cbe7adbf3f80a5ce6aa621f2f3ac9">will give the Democratic caucus more wiggle room</a>&nbsp;on close votes, including nominations that Republicans uniformly oppose.Feinstein, the oldest member of Congress and the longest-serving woman in the Senate, said in February she would not seek reelection in 2024. Lee is one of several prominent Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-california-state-government-united-states-senate-donald-trump-5426f7c2539d14210f098bf7f8c0d9d7">competing for the seat</a>, including Democratic U.S. Reps. Katie Porter and Adam Schiff. Newsom said he did not want to appoint any of the candidates because it would give them an unfair advantage in the race.Butler has never held elected office but has a long track record in California politics. She served as a senior adviser to Harris's 2020 presidential campaign while working at a political firm filled with strategists who have worked for Newsom and many other prominent state Democrats. She also briefly worked in the private sector for Airbnb.She called Feinstein “a legendary figure for women in politics and around the country,” in a statement posted after Feinstein's death.Emily's List, the group Butler leads, focuses on electing Democratic women who support abortion rights. With the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn women's constitutional right to abortion, the issue has become a galvanizing one for many Democrats.Equality California, the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, said the appointment “will give our ... community another voice in Congress at a time when our rights and freedoms are under attack across the country.”It’s not Newsom’s first time selecting a U.S. senator, after being tasked with choosing a replacement for Kamala Harris when she was elected vice president; at that time he selected California Secretary of State Alex Padilla for the post. It was one of a string of appointments Newsom made in late 2020 and early 2021, a power that gave him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-sacramento-california-gavin-newsom-kamala-harris-983ab328c56768cd0c87a28fcc59870c">kingmaker status</a>&nbsp;among the state’s ambitious Democrats.The seat is expected to stay in Democratic hands in the 2024 election. Democrats in the liberal-leaning state have not lost a statewide election since 2006, and the party holds a nearly 2-to-1 voter registration advantage over Republicans.

Former adviser to Vice President Harris named to open U.S. Senate seat

LINCOLN, NE - Governor Jim Pillen provided the statement below, upon approving emergency regulations submitted by the Chief Medical Officer of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) relative to the&nbsp;Let them Grow Act&nbsp;in LB574.

“I appreciate the thorough work put in by Dr. Tesmer and his team to get the emergency regulations drafted and to me for approval on the effective date of the law. These regulations provide the guidance necessary to ensure that Nebraska kids are protected from medical treatments and surgeries that could result in irreparable harm.”

LINCOLN, NE - Governor Jim Pillen provided the statement below, upon approving emergency regulations submitted by the Chief Medical Officer of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) relative to the&nbsp;Let them Grow Act&nbsp;in LB574.“I appreciate the thorough work put in by Dr. Tesmer and his team to get the emergency regulations drafted and to me for approval on the effective date of the law. These regulations provide the guidance necessary to ensure that Nebraska kids are protected from medical treatments and surgeries that could result in irreparable harm.”

Gov. Pillen’s Statement Upon Approving Emergency Regulations for Let Them Grow Act

WASHINGTON --&nbsp;FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-alert-test">nationwide test</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-alert-system">Emergency Alert System</a>&nbsp;(EAS) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system/public/wireless-emergency-alerts">Wireless Emergency Alerts</a>&nbsp;(WEA) this fall.

The national test will consist of two portions, testing WEA and EAS capabilities. Both tests are scheduled to begin at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 4.

The WEA portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones. This will be the third nationwide test, but the second test to all cellular devices. The test message will display in either English or in Spanish, depending on the language settings of the wireless handset.

The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. This will be the seventh nationwide EAS test.

FEMA and the FCC are coordinating with EAS participants, wireless providers, emergency managers&nbsp;and other stakeholders in preparation for this national test to minimize confusion and to maximize the public safety value of the test.

The purpose of the Oct. 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. In case the Oct. 4 test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the back-up testing date is Oct. 11.&nbsp;

The WEA portion of the test will be initiated using&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system">FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS)</a>, a centralized internet-based system administered by FEMA that enables authorities to send authenticated emergency messages to the public through multiple communications networks. The WEA test will be administered via a code sent to cell phones.&nbsp;

This year the EAS message will be disseminated as a Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) message via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System-Open Platform for Emergency Networks (IPAWS-OPEN).

All wireless phones should receive the message only once. The following can be expected from the nationwide WEA test:

WEA alerts are created and sent by authorized federal, state, local, tribal and territorial government agencies through IPAWS to participating wireless providers, which deliver the alerts to compatible handsets in geo-targeted areas. To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.&nbsp;

Important information about the EAS test:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695205625537.png" alt="Photo FEMA" />
 <figcaption>Photo FEMA</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON --&nbsp;FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-alert-test">nationwide test</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-alert-system">Emergency Alert System</a>&nbsp;(EAS) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system/public/wireless-emergency-alerts">Wireless Emergency Alerts</a>&nbsp;(WEA) this fall.The national test will consist of two portions, testing WEA and EAS capabilities. Both tests are scheduled to begin at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 4.The WEA portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones. This will be the third nationwide test, but the second test to all cellular devices. The test message will display in either English or in Spanish, depending on the language settings of the wireless handset.The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. This will be the seventh nationwide EAS test.FEMA and the FCC are coordinating with EAS participants, wireless providers, emergency managers&nbsp;and other stakeholders in preparation for this national test to minimize confusion and to maximize the public safety value of the test.The purpose of the Oct. 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. In case the Oct. 4 test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the back-up testing date is Oct. 11.&nbsp;The WEA portion of the test will be initiated using&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system">FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS)</a>, a centralized internet-based system administered by FEMA that enables authorities to send authenticated emergency messages to the public through multiple communications networks. The WEA test will be administered via a code sent to cell phones.&nbsp;This year the EAS message will be disseminated as a Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) message via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System-Open Platform for Emergency Networks (IPAWS-OPEN).All wireless phones should receive the message only once. The following can be expected from the nationwide WEA test:<ul>
 <li>Beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET, cell towers will broadcast the test for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, WEA-compatible wireless phones that are switched on, within range of an active cell tower, and whose wireless provider participates in WEA, should be capable of receiving the test message.&nbsp;</li><li>For consumers, the message that appears on their phones will read: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”</li><li>Phones with the main menu set to Spanish will display: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”</li>
 </ul>WEA alerts are created and sent by authorized federal, state, local, tribal and territorial government agencies through IPAWS to participating wireless providers, which deliver the alerts to compatible handsets in geo-targeted areas. To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.&nbsp;Important information about the EAS test:<ul>
 <li>The EAS portion of the test is scheduled to last approximately one minute and will be conducted with the participation of radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers&nbsp;and wireline video providers.</li><li>The test message will be similar to the regular monthly EAS test messages with which the public is familiar. It will state: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public.</li>
 </ul>

Nationwide emergency alert test scheduled this week

Lincoln, Neb. (Oct. 2, 2023) — All Nebraskans are invited to participate in a free web-based activity challenge that offers virtual badges and actual prizes for achieving and logging some extra physical activity ahead of the holidays.

It’s the WellPower Movement Fall Fresh Air Challenge, sponsored by the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010Ik4LhUFIFQdjBp4b6Sgb4hVtElx_M1lmhozixHXZNfmPxZtAmDL0oS7HzLv47jntFaZ2VXhs3t-9GLih0h3fA1wzcb2WloeRU_n_yqEgAAaTttX1nNXx3YxAxfc1KwJ-ATIOQf9f_BXhlyRWuTo9UMz1NIKrS4M&amp;c=dJV187ef1_k9Mc9Gbug6gehjda2XUbdMo-ESSE8QQyc7pM-KoSWjbw==&amp;ch=cV3GWfLDE4uW2NOsZyrfcUBWeKFm1im-qupmSVD4kbSFfQkg3IN2VA==" target="_blank">Nebraska Chiropractic Physicians Association</a>, and it runs Nov. 1-22.&nbsp;The program encourages individuals to increase their daily physical activity with the opportunity to earn virtual badges and qualify for weekly gift-card drawings.

The Fall Fresh Air Challenge is the final component of 2023 for the WellPower Movement, a year-round activity-tracking website hosted by the Nebraska Sports Council. To take the challenge, participants log activity miles on a personal dashboard they establish for free at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010Ik4LhUFIFQdjBp4b6Sgb4hVtElx_M1lmhozixHXZNfmPxZtAmDL0jCPR3w856djDlI3TB1xN3-4bcZtgu9fuQOeBjPJ6xC-wHmKbZlhb6OGM-T-yQ7dTA-Db8zE2G2jp47Z3eCP2kYO-SotxvkUodyoU1rWsWGC&amp;c=dJV187ef1_k9Mc9Gbug6gehjda2XUbdMo-ESSE8QQyc7pM-KoSWjbw==&amp;ch=cV3GWfLDE4uW2NOsZyrfcUBWeKFm1im-qupmSVD4kbSFfQkg3IN2VA==" target="_blank">WellPowerMovement.com</a>.&nbsp;

The main goal of the WellPower Movement Fall Fresh Air Challenge is to log at least 25 miles between Nov. 1-22.&nbsp;Activity miles can be achieved by walking, running, biking and/or converting other physical and mental health activities.&nbsp;Participants who log miles will be eligible for weekly prize drawings. Fall Fresh Air Challenge Badges are earned for each five-mile increment up to 50 miles.

The WellPower Movement is a program of the Nebraska Sports Council, which also conducts the Cornhusker State Games, the Pumpkin Run and Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games.&nbsp;Learn more at

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010Ik4LhUFIFQdjBp4b6Sgb4hVtElx_M1lmhozixHXZNfmPxZtAmDL0nW7rS1CaCw6BRr-5loo6awO8ZB4EVGenmG_X7ztP7qOg8qg7d4ZPFaBWbNTxyBnPv_NFk8WXcxzOqXeIWZITXF44lvkOAfofeVRcxYDKyv_&amp;c=dJV187ef1_k9Mc9Gbug6gehjda2XUbdMo-ESSE8QQyc7pM-KoSWjbw==&amp;ch=cV3GWfLDE4uW2NOsZyrfcUBWeKFm1im-qupmSVD4kbSFfQkg3IN2VA==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>.

Lincoln, Neb. (Oct. 2, 2023) — All Nebraskans are invited to participate in a free web-based activity challenge that offers virtual badges and actual prizes for achieving and logging some extra physical activity ahead of the holidays.It’s the WellPower Movement Fall Fresh Air Challenge, sponsored by the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010Ik4LhUFIFQdjBp4b6Sgb4hVtElx_M1lmhozixHXZNfmPxZtAmDL0oS7HzLv47jntFaZ2VXhs3t-9GLih0h3fA1wzcb2WloeRU_n_yqEgAAaTttX1nNXx3YxAxfc1KwJ-ATIOQf9f_BXhlyRWuTo9UMz1NIKrS4M&amp;c=dJV187ef1_k9Mc9Gbug6gehjda2XUbdMo-ESSE8QQyc7pM-KoSWjbw==&amp;ch=cV3GWfLDE4uW2NOsZyrfcUBWeKFm1im-qupmSVD4kbSFfQkg3IN2VA==" target="_blank">Nebraska Chiropractic Physicians Association</a>, and it runs Nov. 1-22.&nbsp;The program encourages individuals to increase their daily physical activity with the opportunity to earn virtual badges and qualify for weekly gift-card drawings.The Fall Fresh Air Challenge is the final component of 2023 for the WellPower Movement, a year-round activity-tracking website hosted by the Nebraska Sports Council. To take the challenge, participants log activity miles on a personal dashboard they establish for free at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010Ik4LhUFIFQdjBp4b6Sgb4hVtElx_M1lmhozixHXZNfmPxZtAmDL0jCPR3w856djDlI3TB1xN3-4bcZtgu9fuQOeBjPJ6xC-wHmKbZlhb6OGM-T-yQ7dTA-Db8zE2G2jp47Z3eCP2kYO-SotxvkUodyoU1rWsWGC&amp;c=dJV187ef1_k9Mc9Gbug6gehjda2XUbdMo-ESSE8QQyc7pM-KoSWjbw==&amp;ch=cV3GWfLDE4uW2NOsZyrfcUBWeKFm1im-qupmSVD4kbSFfQkg3IN2VA==" target="_blank">WellPowerMovement.com</a>.&nbsp;The main goal of the WellPower Movement Fall Fresh Air Challenge is to log at least 25 miles between Nov. 1-22.&nbsp;Activity miles can be achieved by walking, running, biking and/or converting other physical and mental health activities.&nbsp;Participants who log miles will be eligible for weekly prize drawings. Fall Fresh Air Challenge Badges are earned for each five-mile increment up to 50 miles.The WellPower Movement is a program of the Nebraska Sports Council, which also conducts the Cornhusker State Games, the Pumpkin Run and Lincoln and Omaha Corporate Games.&nbsp;Learn more at<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010Ik4LhUFIFQdjBp4b6Sgb4hVtElx_M1lmhozixHXZNfmPxZtAmDL0nW7rS1CaCw6BRr-5loo6awO8ZB4EVGenmG_X7ztP7qOg8qg7d4ZPFaBWbNTxyBnPv_NFk8WXcxzOqXeIWZITXF44lvkOAfofeVRcxYDKyv_&amp;c=dJV187ef1_k9Mc9Gbug6gehjda2XUbdMo-ESSE8QQyc7pM-KoSWjbw==&amp;ch=cV3GWfLDE4uW2NOsZyrfcUBWeKFm1im-qupmSVD4kbSFfQkg3IN2VA==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>.

Fall Fresh Air Challenge Set For Nov. 1-22

Nebraska is requiring transgender youth seeking gender-affirming care to wait seven days to start puberty blocking medications or hormone treatments under emergency regulations announced Sunday by the state health department.

The regulations also require transgender minors to undergo at least 40 hours of “gender-identity-focused” therapy that are “clinically neutral” before receiving any medical treatments meant to affirm their gender identities.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-transgender-ban-nebraska-filibuster-b0b88845d29f1aaadf7936b7304a0507">A new law</a>&nbsp;that took effect Sunday bans gender-affirming surgeries for trans youth under 19 and also required the state's chief medical officer to spell out when and how those youth can receive other care.

The state Department of Health and Human Services announcement that Republican Gov. Jim Pillen had approved the emergency regulations came after families, doctors and even lawmakers said they had largely&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-minors-nebraska-58f4f7bc1c2c733ed164f13e6585a7f6">gotten no response</a>&nbsp;from the department on when the regulations would be in place. They worried that Pillen's administration was slow-walking them to block treatments for transgender youth who hadn't already started them.

“The law went into effect today, which is when the emergency regulations were put in place,” department spokesperson Jeff Powell said in an email Sunday to The Associated Press. “Nothing was slow-walked.”

<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/181-NAC-8.pdf">The new regulations</a>&nbsp;remain in effect while the department takes public comments on a permanent set of rules. The agency said it plans to release a proposed final version by the end of October and then have a public hearing on Nov. 28 in Lincoln, the state capital.

Grant Friedman, a legal fellow for the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska, said it's helpful to have the rules in place so that new transgender patients can get care. However, he said, medical professionals already follow international standards for treating trans youth, making the Legislature's intervention unnecessary.

“These are decisions to be made between patients, parents, providers," he said after a transgender rights rally Sunday at the Nebraska State Capitol.

Nebraska's ban on gender-affirming surgeries for minors and its restrictions on other gender-affirming care were part of a wave of measures rolling back transgender rights in Republican-controlled statehouse across the U.S.

At least 22 states have enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, and most of those states face lawsuits. An Arkansas ban mirroring Nebraska’s was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/us-news/arkansas-gender-general-news-2a0d032f4e4f3195c180d879239e6521">struck down by a federal judge</a>&nbsp;in June as unconstitutional and will be appealed to the 8th U.S. Circuit Court, which also handles Nebraska cases.

During the signing ceremony for the new Nebraska law, Pillen suggested that children and their parents who seek gender-affirming treatment are being “duped,” adding, “that is absolutely Lucifer at its finest.” The state's chief medical officer, Dr. Timothy Tesmer, is a Pillen appointee.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends gender-affirming care for people under 18, citing an increased risk of suicide for transgender teens.

Nebraska's new regulations require that a patient's parents or legal guardians be involved in any treatment, including the 40 required hours of therapy. It also requires at least one hour of therapy every three months after that care starts “to evaluate ongoing effects on a patient's mental health.”

The seven-day waiting period for puberty blockers or hormone treatments would start when a doctor receives a signed consent form from a parent or legal guardian. Patients who are emancipated minors also could sign off on their own.

The department said in&nbsp;<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/Let-Them-Grow-Act-Emergency-Regulations-FAQ.pdf">an online document</a>&nbsp;meant to answer frequently asked questions that the waiting period would give patients and their families “enough time to weigh the risks and benefits of treatment.” Friedman said it's not yet clear what the practical effect will be on patients getting care.

The same state health department document says that the required 40 hours of therapy would allow doctors “to develop a thorough understanding of a patient's needs.”

But Friedman said the requirement is problematic because of a lack of mental health providers able to provide the therapy.

“It just adds an additional barrier to existing care barriers that already exist in our health care system,” he said.

Nebraska is requiring transgender youth seeking gender-affirming care to wait seven days to start puberty blocking medications or hormone treatments under emergency regulations announced Sunday by the state health department.The regulations also require transgender minors to undergo at least 40 hours of “gender-identity-focused” therapy that are “clinically neutral” before receiving any medical treatments meant to affirm their gender identities.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-transgender-ban-nebraska-filibuster-b0b88845d29f1aaadf7936b7304a0507">A new law</a>&nbsp;that took effect Sunday bans gender-affirming surgeries for trans youth under 19 and also required the state's chief medical officer to spell out when and how those youth can receive other care.The state Department of Health and Human Services announcement that Republican Gov. Jim Pillen had approved the emergency regulations came after families, doctors and even lawmakers said they had largely&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-minors-nebraska-58f4f7bc1c2c733ed164f13e6585a7f6">gotten no response</a>&nbsp;from the department on when the regulations would be in place. They worried that Pillen's administration was slow-walking them to block treatments for transgender youth who hadn't already started them.“The law went into effect today, which is when the emergency regulations were put in place,” department spokesperson Jeff Powell said in an email Sunday to The Associated Press. “Nothing was slow-walked.”<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/181-NAC-8.pdf">The new regulations</a>&nbsp;remain in effect while the department takes public comments on a permanent set of rules. The agency said it plans to release a proposed final version by the end of October and then have a public hearing on Nov. 28 in Lincoln, the state capital.Grant Friedman, a legal fellow for the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska, said it's helpful to have the rules in place so that new transgender patients can get care. However, he said, medical professionals already follow international standards for treating trans youth, making the Legislature's intervention unnecessary.“These are decisions to be made between patients, parents, providers," he said after a transgender rights rally Sunday at the Nebraska State Capitol.Nebraska's ban on gender-affirming surgeries for minors and its restrictions on other gender-affirming care were part of a wave of measures rolling back transgender rights in Republican-controlled statehouse across the U.S.At least 22 states have enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, and most of those states face lawsuits. An Arkansas ban mirroring Nebraska’s was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/us-news/arkansas-gender-general-news-2a0d032f4e4f3195c180d879239e6521">struck down by a federal judge</a>&nbsp;in June as unconstitutional and will be appealed to the 8th U.S. Circuit Court, which also handles Nebraska cases.During the signing ceremony for the new Nebraska law, Pillen suggested that children and their parents who seek gender-affirming treatment are being “duped,” adding, “that is absolutely Lucifer at its finest.” The state's chief medical officer, Dr. Timothy Tesmer, is a Pillen appointee.The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends gender-affirming care for people under 18, citing an increased risk of suicide for transgender teens.Nebraska's new regulations require that a patient's parents or legal guardians be involved in any treatment, including the 40 required hours of therapy. It also requires at least one hour of therapy every three months after that care starts “to evaluate ongoing effects on a patient's mental health.”The seven-day waiting period for puberty blockers or hormone treatments would start when a doctor receives a signed consent form from a parent or legal guardian. Patients who are emancipated minors also could sign off on their own.The department said in&nbsp;<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/Let-Them-Grow-Act-Emergency-Regulations-FAQ.pdf">an online document</a>&nbsp;meant to answer frequently asked questions that the waiting period would give patients and their families “enough time to weigh the risks and benefits of treatment.” Friedman said it's not yet clear what the practical effect will be on patients getting care.The same state health department document says that the required 40 hours of therapy would allow doctors “to develop a thorough understanding of a patient's needs.”But Friedman said the requirement is problematic because of a lack of mental health providers able to provide the therapy.“It just adds an additional barrier to existing care barriers that already exist in our health care system,” he said.

Nebraska is imposing a 7-day wait for trans youth to start gender-affirming medications

WASHINGTON — The threat of a&nbsp;federal government shutdown&nbsp;suddenly lifted late Saturday hours before a midnight deadline as Congress approved a temporary funding bill to keep agencies open. President Joe Biden quickly signed the bill into law.

The package was approved by the House 335-91, with most Republicans and almost all Democrats supporting. Nebraska First District Representative Mike Flood, Second District Representative Don Bacon and Third District Representative Adrian Smith voted to support the measure.

Late Saturday, Senate passage came by an 88-9. Nebraska Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts voted with the majority along with Kansas Senator Jerry Moran and both Senators from Missouri. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall voted against the bill.

The package funds government at current 2023 levels until mid-November, and also extends other provisions, including for the Federal Aviation Administration. The rushed package drops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20President%20Volodymyr,troops%20in%20the%20fight%20against">aid to Ukraine</a>, a White House priority opposed by a growing number of GOP lawmakers, but increases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-hurricane-flooding-fema-disaster-relief-budget-365fc3acd6a12c1f8e67b4926c8dc8b2">federal disaster assistance by $16 billion,</a>&nbsp;meeting Biden’s full request. The bill funds government until Nov. 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696172419539.png" alt="Members of the United States Senate late Saturday during the battle to get an agreement on a funding deal-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Members of the United States Senate late Saturday during the battle to get an agreement on a funding deal-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — The threat of a&nbsp;federal government shutdown&nbsp;suddenly lifted late Saturday hours before a midnight deadline as Congress approved a temporary funding bill to keep agencies open. President Joe Biden quickly signed the bill into law.The package was approved by the House 335-91, with most Republicans and almost all Democrats supporting. Nebraska First District Representative Mike Flood, Second District Representative Don Bacon and Third District Representative Adrian Smith voted to support the measure.Late Saturday, Senate passage came by an 88-9. Nebraska Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts voted with the majority along with Kansas Senator Jerry Moran and both Senators from Missouri. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall voted against the bill.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The CR does nothing to address our most immediate national security threat- our open southern border &amp; the fentanyl pouring in. With a $33 trillion debt crisis, it’s never been more clear America can’t afford to continue these spending levels for one more day, let alone, 45.&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1708287319936221276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The package funds government at current 2023 levels until mid-November, and also extends other provisions, including for the Federal Aviation Administration. The rushed package drops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20President%20Volodymyr,troops%20in%20the%20fight%20against">aid to Ukraine</a>, a White House priority opposed by a growing number of GOP lawmakers, but increases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-hurricane-flooding-fema-disaster-relief-budget-365fc3acd6a12c1f8e67b4926c8dc8b2">federal disaster assistance by $16 billion,</a>&nbsp;meeting Biden’s full request. The bill funds government until Nov. 17.

All Nebraska lawmakers voted for short term budget deal

STOCKHOLM (AP) — Two scientists won the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-peace-literature-economics-chemistry-medicine-98860d60c271ee64833075af9654a534">Nobel Prize</a>&nbsp;in medicine on Monday for discoveries that enabled the development of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 and could be used in the future to create other shots.

Katalin Karikó, a professor at Sagan’s University in Hungary and an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania, and Drew Weissman, of the University of Pennsylvania, were awarded the prize for “their groundbreaking findings, which have fundamentally changed our understanding of how mRNA interacts with our immune system,” the panel that awarded the prize said.

"The laureates contributed to the unprecedented rate of vaccine development during one of the greatest threats to human health in modern times,” the panel added.

Karikó said her husband was the first to pick up the early morning call, then handed it to her to hear the news. “I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “I was very much surprised. But I am very happy.”

Before COVID-19, mRNA vaccines were already being tested for other diseases like Zika, influenza and rabies — but the pandemic brought more attention to this approach, Karikó said.

“There was already clinical trials before COVID, but people were not aware,” she said.

Thomas Perlmann, the secretary of the Nobel Assembly who announced the prize, said both scientists were “overwhelmed” by news.

Traditionally, making vaccines required growing viruses or pieces of viruses — often in giant vats of cells or, like most flu shots, in chicken eggs — and then purifying them before next steps in brewing shots.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/years-research-groundwork-covid-19-shots-f204192f07cfcc3503dc9c7687ae6269">the messenger RNA approach</a>&nbsp;is radically different. It starts with a snippet of genetic code that carries instructions for making proteins. Pick the right virus protein to target, and the body turns into a mini vaccine factory.

Dr. Paul Hunter, a professor of medicine at Britain’s University of East Anglia, described the mRNA vaccines as a “game changer” in helping to shut down the coronavirus pandemic, crediting the shots with saving millions of lives.

“If it hadn’t been for the mRNA technology, COVID would have been much worse,” he said. “Vaccines generally were the turning point in slowing down COVID and the mRNA vaccines were just so much better than all the others,” he said, noting that the main vaccine used in the U.K., made by AstraZeneca, is barely in use anymore.

“We would likely only now be coming out of the depths of COVID without the mRNA vaccines,” Hunter said.

Karikó was a senior vice president at BioNTech, which partnered with Pfizer to make one of the COVID-19 vaccines. The BioNtech website says that since 2022 she has been an external consultant. She is the 13th woman to win the Nobel Prize in medicine. Weissman is a professor and director of the Penn Institute for RNA Innovations at the University of Pennsylvania.

Dr. Bharat Pankhania, an infectious diseases expert at Exeter University, said that a major advantage of mRNA technology was that vaccines could be made in extremely large quantities since their main components are made in laboratories.

Pankhania predicted that the technology used in the vaccines could be used to refine vaccines for other diseases like Ebola, malaria and dengue, and might also be used to create shots that immunize people against certain types of cancer or auto-immune diseases like lupus.

“It’s possible that we could vaccinate people against abnormal cancer proteins and have the immune system attack it after being given a targeted mRNA shot,” he explained. “It’s a much more targeted technology than has been previously available and could revolutionize how we handle not only outbreaks, but non-communicable diseases.”

The Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine was won last year by Swedish scientist&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-science-health-stockholm-5cfe18038fc4fcda06d38323f7333c69">Svante Paabo</a>&nbsp;for discoveries in human evolution that unlocked secrets of Neanderthal DNA which provided key insights into our immune system, including our vulnerability to severe COVID-19.

Nobel announcements continue with the physics prize on Tuesday, chemistry on Wednesday and literature on Thursday. The Nobel Peace Prize will be announced Friday and the economics award on Oct. 9.

The prizes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-increase-award-amount-122839c6c00d7659f60f4676004c89eb">carry a cash award of 11 million Swedish kronor</a>&nbsp;($1 million). The money comes from a bequest left by the prize’s creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel, who died in 1896.

The laureates are invited to receive their awards at ceremonies on Dec. 10, the anniversary of Nobel’s death. The prestigious peace prize is handed out in Oslo, according to his wishes, while the other award ceremony is held in Stockholm.

STOCKHOLM (AP) — Two scientists won the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-peace-literature-economics-chemistry-medicine-98860d60c271ee64833075af9654a534">Nobel Prize</a>&nbsp;in medicine on Monday for discoveries that enabled the development of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 and could be used in the future to create other shots.Katalin Karikó, a professor at Sagan’s University in Hungary and an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania, and Drew Weissman, of the University of Pennsylvania, were awarded the prize for “their groundbreaking findings, which have fundamentally changed our understanding of how mRNA interacts with our immune system,” the panel that awarded the prize said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING NEWS The 2023 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NobelPrize?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NobelPrize</a> in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman for their discoveries concerning nucleoside base modifications that enabled the development of effective mRNA vaccines against COVID-19. <a href="https://t.co/Y62uJDlNMj">pic.twitter.com/Y62uJDlNMj</a>&mdash; The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) <a href="https://twitter.com/NobelPrize/status/1708780262883017166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"The laureates contributed to the unprecedented rate of vaccine development during one of the greatest threats to human health in modern times,” the panel added.Karikó said her husband was the first to pick up the early morning call, then handed it to her to hear the news. “I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “I was very much surprised. But I am very happy.”Before COVID-19, mRNA vaccines were already being tested for other diseases like Zika, influenza and rabies — but the pandemic brought more attention to this approach, Karikó said.“There was already clinical trials before COVID, but people were not aware,” she said.Thomas Perlmann, the secretary of the Nobel Assembly who announced the prize, said both scientists were “overwhelmed” by news.Traditionally, making vaccines required growing viruses or pieces of viruses — often in giant vats of cells or, like most flu shots, in chicken eggs — and then purifying them before next steps in brewing shots.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/years-research-groundwork-covid-19-shots-f204192f07cfcc3503dc9c7687ae6269">the messenger RNA approach</a>&nbsp;is radically different. It starts with a snippet of genetic code that carries instructions for making proteins. Pick the right virus protein to target, and the body turns into a mini vaccine factory.Dr. Paul Hunter, a professor of medicine at Britain’s University of East Anglia, described the mRNA vaccines as a “game changer” in helping to shut down the coronavirus pandemic, crediting the shots with saving millions of lives.“If it hadn’t been for the mRNA technology, COVID would have been much worse,” he said. “Vaccines generally were the turning point in slowing down COVID and the mRNA vaccines were just so much better than all the others,” he said, noting that the main vaccine used in the U.K., made by AstraZeneca, is barely in use anymore.“We would likely only now be coming out of the depths of COVID without the mRNA vaccines,” Hunter said.Karikó was a senior vice president at BioNTech, which partnered with Pfizer to make one of the COVID-19 vaccines. The BioNtech website says that since 2022 she has been an external consultant. She is the 13th woman to win the Nobel Prize in medicine. Weissman is a professor and director of the Penn Institute for RNA Innovations at the University of Pennsylvania.Dr. Bharat Pankhania, an infectious diseases expert at Exeter University, said that a major advantage of mRNA technology was that vaccines could be made in extremely large quantities since their main components are made in laboratories.Pankhania predicted that the technology used in the vaccines could be used to refine vaccines for other diseases like Ebola, malaria and dengue, and might also be used to create shots that immunize people against certain types of cancer or auto-immune diseases like lupus.“It’s possible that we could vaccinate people against abnormal cancer proteins and have the immune system attack it after being given a targeted mRNA shot,” he explained. “It’s a much more targeted technology than has been previously available and could revolutionize how we handle not only outbreaks, but non-communicable diseases.”The Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine was won last year by Swedish scientist&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-science-health-stockholm-5cfe18038fc4fcda06d38323f7333c69">Svante Paabo</a>&nbsp;for discoveries in human evolution that unlocked secrets of Neanderthal DNA which provided key insights into our immune system, including our vulnerability to severe COVID-19.Nobel announcements continue with the physics prize on Tuesday, chemistry on Wednesday and literature on Thursday. The Nobel Peace Prize will be announced Friday and the economics award on Oct. 9.The prizes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-increase-award-amount-122839c6c00d7659f60f4676004c89eb">carry a cash award of 11 million Swedish kronor</a>&nbsp;($1 million). The money comes from a bequest left by the prize’s creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel, who died in 1896.The laureates are invited to receive their awards at ceremonies on Dec. 10, the anniversary of Nobel’s death. The prestigious peace prize is handed out in Oslo, according to his wishes, while the other award ceremony is held in Stockholm.

Nobel Prize goes to scientists behind mRNA Covid vaccines

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida (AP) — An estimated $1.04 billion Powerball jackpot will be up for grabs Monday night, tempting players to spend a couple dollars on a long shot at instant riches.

The prize is the world's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lottery-jackpot-mega-millions-powerball-b77dd9c7de3f0ab09545a01113b1f111">ninth-largest lottery prize</a>&nbsp;behind earlier drawings of Powerball and Mega Millions, the other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-alabama-alaska-lotteries-business-86424cf8e2b7cccf8ae9d06f6652d559">nearly nationwide lottery game</a>. The jackpot is the fourth-largest in the history of Powerball.

“If I could win it, I’d be the happiest person in the world,” said Chevy Johnson, who was buying Powerball tickets Monday at Bob's News &amp; Book Store in Fort Lauderdale.

The prize has grown so massive because no one has matched all five white balls and the Powerball to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-winner-california-9f0e98a47c96c2b3087a68b33195dd50">win the jackpot</a>&nbsp;in 32 consecutive drawings, dating back to July 19.

That losing streak reflects the stunningly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-lottery-us-news-ap-top-news-ia-state-wire-b5572da1e5d74f6e974bea45c707b5cb">long odds of winning</a>&nbsp;the jackpot, at 1 in 292.2 million.

Hector Griffith, another customer at Bob's News, said that if he won, his priority would be taking care of his family.

“It would change my life, completely change my life,” Griffith said. “I can’t wait to win it.”

Donnie Ross, a clerk at a BP gasoline station in New Hope, Minnesota, said when the prize grew so large for a recent jackpot that topped $1 billion, some customers spent hundreds of dollars on tickets.

“We had a huge bunch of people coming in right at the last minute to buy all their tickets before the drawing happened,” Ross said.

The $1.04 billion jackpot is for a sole winner who chooses to receive the winnings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">through an annuity</a>, paid annually over 30 years. Winners nearly always pick the cash option, which for Monday night's drawing would be an estimated $478.2 million.

A Powerball ticket costs $2 in most states and players can pick their own numbers or have a computer make the selection.

Powerball is played in 45 states as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida (AP) — An estimated $1.04 billion Powerball jackpot will be up for grabs Monday night, tempting players to spend a couple dollars on a long shot at instant riches.The prize is the world's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lottery-jackpot-mega-millions-powerball-b77dd9c7de3f0ab09545a01113b1f111">ninth-largest lottery prize</a>&nbsp;behind earlier drawings of Powerball and Mega Millions, the other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-alabama-alaska-lotteries-business-86424cf8e2b7cccf8ae9d06f6652d559">nearly nationwide lottery game</a>. The jackpot is the fourth-largest in the history of Powerball.“If I could win it, I’d be the happiest person in the world,” said Chevy Johnson, who was buying Powerball tickets Monday at Bob's News &amp; Book Store in Fort Lauderdale.The prize has grown so massive because no one has matched all five white balls and the Powerball to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-winner-california-9f0e98a47c96c2b3087a68b33195dd50">win the jackpot</a>&nbsp;in 32 consecutive drawings, dating back to July 19.That losing streak reflects the stunningly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-lottery-us-news-ap-top-news-ia-state-wire-b5572da1e5d74f6e974bea45c707b5cb">long odds of winning</a>&nbsp;the jackpot, at 1 in 292.2 million.Hector Griffith, another customer at Bob's News, said that if he won, his priority would be taking care of his family.“It would change my life, completely change my life,” Griffith said. “I can’t wait to win it.”Donnie Ross, a clerk at a BP gasoline station in New Hope, Minnesota, said when the prize grew so large for a recent jackpot that topped $1 billion, some customers spent hundreds of dollars on tickets.“We had a huge bunch of people coming in right at the last minute to buy all their tickets before the drawing happened,” Ross said.The $1.04 billion jackpot is for a sole winner who chooses to receive the winnings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">through an annuity</a>, paid annually over 30 years. Winners nearly always pick the cash option, which for Monday night's drawing would be an estimated $478.2 million.A Powerball ticket costs $2 in most states and players can pick their own numbers or have a computer make the selection.Powerball is played in 45 states as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

$1.04 billion Powerball jackpot tempts players to brave long odds

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;agreed Friday to decide whether state laws that seek to regulate Facebook, TikTok, X and other social media platforms violate the Constitution.

The justices will review&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-technology-texas-amy-coney-barrett-da10a0389ea3a89e507e8ddf969bff6a">laws enacted</a>&nbsp;by Republican-dominated legislatures and signed by Republican governors in Florida and Texas. While the details vary, both laws aim to prevent the social media companies from censoring users based on their viewpoints.

The court's announcement, three days before the start of its new term, comes as the justices continue to grapple with how laws written at the dawn of the digital age, or earlier, apply to the online world.

The justices had already agreed to decide whether public officials can block critics from commenting on their social media accounts, an issue that previously came up in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-dimisses-case-trump-twitter-critics-bcdfcc37052e9c737ac5a1318b02a71c">a case involving then-President Donald Trump</a>. The court dismissed the Trump case when his presidential term ended in January 2021.

Separately, the high court also could consider a lower-court order limiting executive branch officials’ communications with social media companies about controversial online posts.

The new case follows conflicting rulings by two appeals courts, one of which upheld the Texas law, while the other struck down Florida's statute. By a 5-4 vote, the justices kept the Texas law on hold while litigation over it continues.

But the alignment was unusual. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett voted to grant the emergency request from two technology industry groups that challenged the law in federal court.

Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Elena Kagan and Neil Gorsuch would have allowed the law to remain in effect. In dissent, Alito wrote, “Social media platforms have transformed the way people communicate with each other and obtain news.”

Proponents of the laws, including Republican elected officials in several states that have similar measures, have sought to portray social media companies as generally liberal in outlook and hostile to ideas outside of that viewpoint, especially from the political right.

The tech sector warned that the laws would prevent platforms from removing extremism and hate speech.

Without offering any explanation, the justices had put off consideration of the case even though both sides agreed the high court should step in.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;agreed Friday to decide whether state laws that seek to regulate Facebook, TikTok, X and other social media platforms violate the Constitution.The justices will review&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-technology-texas-amy-coney-barrett-da10a0389ea3a89e507e8ddf969bff6a">laws enacted</a>&nbsp;by Republican-dominated legislatures and signed by Republican governors in Florida and Texas. While the details vary, both laws aim to prevent the social media companies from censoring users based on their viewpoints.The court's announcement, three days before the start of its new term, comes as the justices continue to grapple with how laws written at the dawn of the digital age, or earlier, apply to the online world.The justices had already agreed to decide whether public officials can block critics from commenting on their social media accounts, an issue that previously came up in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-dimisses-case-trump-twitter-critics-bcdfcc37052e9c737ac5a1318b02a71c">a case involving then-President Donald Trump</a>. The court dismissed the Trump case when his presidential term ended in January 2021.Separately, the high court also could consider a lower-court order limiting executive branch officials’ communications with social media companies about controversial online posts.The new case follows conflicting rulings by two appeals courts, one of which upheld the Texas law, while the other struck down Florida's statute. By a 5-4 vote, the justices kept the Texas law on hold while litigation over it continues.But the alignment was unusual. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett voted to grant the emergency request from two technology industry groups that challenged the law in federal court.Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Elena Kagan and Neil Gorsuch would have allowed the law to remain in effect. In dissent, Alito wrote, “Social media platforms have transformed the way people communicate with each other and obtain news.”Proponents of the laws, including Republican elected officials in several states that have similar measures, have sought to portray social media companies as generally liberal in outlook and hostile to ideas outside of that viewpoint, especially from the political right.The tech sector warned that the laws would prevent platforms from removing extremism and hate speech.Without offering any explanation, the justices had put off consideration of the case even though both sides agreed the high court should step in.

High Court will decide if laws limiting social media platforms violate Constitution

WASHINGTON (AP) — The threat of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff" target="_blank">federal government shutdown</a>&nbsp;suddenly lifted late Saturday as President Joe Biden signed a temporary funding bill to keep agencies open with little time to spare after Congress rushed to approve the bipartisan deal.

The package drops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20President%20Volodymyr,troops%20in%20the%20fight%20against" target="_blank">aid to Ukraine</a>, a White House priority opposed by a growing number of GOP lawmakers, but increases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-hurricane-flooding-fema-disaster-relief-budget-365fc3acd6a12c1f8e67b4926c8dc8b2" target="_blank">federal disaster assistance by $16 billion,</a>&nbsp;meeting Biden’s full request. The bill funds government until Nov. 17.

After chaotic days of turmoil in the House, Speaker Kevin McCarthy abruptly abandoned demands for steep spending cuts from his right flank and instead relied on Democrats to pass the bill, at risk to his own job. The Senate followed with final passage closing a whirlwind day at the Capitol.

“This is good news for the American people,” Biden said in a statement.

He also said the United States “cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted” and expected McCarthy “will keep his commitment to the people of Ukraine and secure passage of the support needed to help Ukraine at this critical moment.”

It’s been a sudden head-spinning turn of events in Congress ahead of the midnight funding deadline after grueling days in the House pushed the government to the brink of a disruptive federal shutdown.

The outcome ends, for now, the threat of a shutdown, but the reprieve may be short-lived. Congress will again need to fund the government in coming weeks risking a crisis as views are hardening, particularly among the right-flank lawmakers whose demands were ultimately swept aside this time in favor of a more bipartisan approach.

“We’re going to do our job,” McCarthy, R-Calif., said before the House vote. “We’re going to be adults in the room. And we’re going to keep government open.”

If no deal was in place before Sunday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-gop-federal-workers-congress-government-5978a4c7411eba06261d16c3aff3dfc5" target="_blank">federal workers would have faced furloughs</a>, more than 2 million active-duty and reserve military troops would have had to work without pay and programs and services that Americans rely on from coast to coast would have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c" target="_blank">begun to face shutdown disruptions</a>.

“It has been a day full of twists and turns, but the American people can breathe a sigh of relief: There will be no government shutdown,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.

The package funds government at current 2023 levels until mid-November, and also extends other provisions, including for the Federal Aviation Administration. The package was approved by the House 335-91, with most Republicans and almost all Democrats supporting. Senate passage came by an 88-9 vote.&nbsp;Kansas Senator Jerry Moran voted in favor of the measure along with Missouri Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt and Nebraska Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall voted against the bill.

But the loss of Ukraine aid was devastating for lawmakers of both parties vowing to support President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3" target="_blank">Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>&nbsp;after his recent Washington visit. The Senate bill included $6 billion for Ukraine, and both chambers came to a standstill Saturday as lawmakers assessed their options.

“The American people deserve better,” said House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, warning in a lengthy floor speech that “extreme” Republicans were risking a shutdown.

For the House package to be approved, McCarthy was forced to rely on Democrats because the speaker’s hard-right flank has said it will oppose any short-term funding measure, denying him the votes needed from his slim majority. It’s a move that is sure to intensify calls for his ouster.

After leaving the conservative holdouts behind, McCarthy is almost certain to be facing a motion to try to remove him from office, though it is not at all certain there would be enough votes to topple the speaker. Most Republicans voted for the package Saturday while 90 opposed.

“If somebody wants to remove me because I want to be the adult in the room, go ahead and try,” McCarthy said of the threat to oust him. “But I think this country is too important.”

The White House was tracking the developments on Capitol Hill and aides were briefing the president, who was spending the weekend in Washington.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who has championed Ukraine aid despite resistance from his own ranks, is expected to keep pursuing U.S. support for Kyiv in the fight against Russia.

“I have agreed to keep fighting for more economic and security aid for Ukraine,” McConnell, R-Ky., said before the vote.

Late at night, the Senate stalled when Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., held up the vote, seeking assurances Ukraine funds would be reconsidered.

“I know important moments are like this, for the United States, to lead the rest of the world,” Bennet said, noting his mother was born in Poland in 1938 and survived the Holocaust. “We can’t fail.”

The House’s quick pivot comes after the collapse Friday of McCarthy’s earlier plan to pass a Republican-only bill with steep spending cuts up to 30% to most government agencies and strict border provisions that the White House and Democrats rejected as too extreme. A faction of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-votes-mccarthy-gop-caucus-gaetz-585c82607c00c2cfc45768faff6e1cda" target="_blank">21 hard-right Republican holdouts</a>&nbsp;opposed it.

“Our options are slipping away every minute,” said one senior Republican, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696162456881.png" alt="White House photo" />
 <figcaption>White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The threat of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff" target="_blank">federal government shutdown</a>&nbsp;suddenly lifted late Saturday as President Joe Biden signed a temporary funding bill to keep agencies open with little time to spare after Congress rushed to approve the bipartisan deal.The package drops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3#:~:text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20President%20Volodymyr,troops%20in%20the%20fight%20against" target="_blank">aid to Ukraine</a>, a White House priority opposed by a growing number of GOP lawmakers, but increases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfire-hurricane-flooding-fema-disaster-relief-budget-365fc3acd6a12c1f8e67b4926c8dc8b2" target="_blank">federal disaster assistance by $16 billion,</a>&nbsp;meeting Biden’s full request. The bill funds government until Nov. 17.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tonight, Congress voted to keep the government open, preventing an unnecessary crisis that would have inflicted needless pain on millions of hardworking Americans. This is good news, but I want to be clear: we should never have been in this position in the first place. <a href="https://t.co/U28kaX11Rq">pic.twitter.com/U28kaX11Rq</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1708290185505419283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>After chaotic days of turmoil in the House, Speaker Kevin McCarthy abruptly abandoned demands for steep spending cuts from his right flank and instead relied on Democrats to pass the bill, at risk to his own job. The Senate followed with final passage closing a whirlwind day at the Capitol.“This is good news for the American people,” Biden said in a statement.He also said the United States “cannot under any circumstances allow American support for Ukraine to be interrupted” and expected McCarthy “will keep his commitment to the people of Ukraine and secure passage of the support needed to help Ukraine at this critical moment.”It’s been a sudden head-spinning turn of events in Congress ahead of the midnight funding deadline after grueling days in the House pushed the government to the brink of a disruptive federal shutdown.The outcome ends, for now, the threat of a shutdown, but the reprieve may be short-lived. Congress will again need to fund the government in coming weeks risking a crisis as views are hardening, particularly among the right-flank lawmakers whose demands were ultimately swept aside this time in favor of a more bipartisan approach.“We’re going to do our job,” McCarthy, R-Calif., said before the House vote. “We’re going to be adults in the room. And we’re going to keep government open.”If no deal was in place before Sunday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-gop-federal-workers-congress-government-5978a4c7411eba06261d16c3aff3dfc5" target="_blank">federal workers would have faced furloughs</a>, more than 2 million active-duty and reserve military troops would have had to work without pay and programs and services that Americans rely on from coast to coast would have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c" target="_blank">begun to face shutdown disruptions</a>.“It has been a day full of twists and turns, but the American people can breathe a sigh of relief: There will be no government shutdown,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.The package funds government at current 2023 levels until mid-November, and also extends other provisions, including for the Federal Aviation Administration. The package was approved by the House 335-91, with most Republicans and almost all Democrats supporting. Senate passage came by an 88-9 vote.&nbsp;Kansas Senator Jerry Moran voted in favor of the measure along with Missouri Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt and Nebraska Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall voted against the bill.But the loss of Ukraine aid was devastating for lawmakers of both parties vowing to support President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-washington-visit-congress-ukraine-war-1d20574fb3ea4fb5efcc7db5458a33a3" target="_blank">Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>&nbsp;after his recent Washington visit. The Senate bill included $6 billion for Ukraine, and both chambers came to a standstill Saturday as lawmakers assessed their options.“The American people deserve better,” said House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, warning in a lengthy floor speech that “extreme” Republicans were risking a shutdown.For the House package to be approved, McCarthy was forced to rely on Democrats because the speaker’s hard-right flank has said it will oppose any short-term funding measure, denying him the votes needed from his slim majority. It’s a move that is sure to intensify calls for his ouster.After leaving the conservative holdouts behind, McCarthy is almost certain to be facing a motion to try to remove him from office, though it is not at all certain there would be enough votes to topple the speaker. Most Republicans voted for the package Saturday while 90 opposed.“If somebody wants to remove me because I want to be the adult in the room, go ahead and try,” McCarthy said of the threat to oust him. “But I think this country is too important.”The White House was tracking the developments on Capitol Hill and aides were briefing the president, who was spending the weekend in Washington.Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who has championed Ukraine aid despite resistance from his own ranks, is expected to keep pursuing U.S. support for Kyiv in the fight against Russia.“I have agreed to keep fighting for more economic and security aid for Ukraine,” McConnell, R-Ky., said before the vote.Late at night, the Senate stalled when Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., held up the vote, seeking assurances Ukraine funds would be reconsidered.“I know important moments are like this, for the United States, to lead the rest of the world,” Bennet said, noting his mother was born in Poland in 1938 and survived the Holocaust. “We can’t fail.”The House’s quick pivot comes after the collapse Friday of McCarthy’s earlier plan to pass a Republican-only bill with steep spending cuts up to 30% to most government agencies and strict border provisions that the White House and Democrats rejected as too extreme. A faction of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-votes-mccarthy-gop-caucus-gaetz-585c82607c00c2cfc45768faff6e1cda" target="_blank">21 hard-right Republican holdouts</a>&nbsp;opposed it.“Our options are slipping away every minute,” said one senior Republican, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida.The federal government had been heading&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-biden-trump-mccarthy-f1b06964cf549b09977677e5f70bf9ff" target="_blank">straight into a shutdown</a>&nbsp;that posed grave uncertainty for federal workers in states all across America and the people who depend on them — from troops to border control agents to office workers, scientists and others.Families that rely on Head Start for children, food benefits and countless other programs large and small were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-snap-benefits-loans-travel-97b3a3b30624704da6eb204837a9135c" target="_blank">confronting potential interruptions or outright closures</a>. At the airports, Transportation Security Administration officers and air traffic controllers had been expected to work without pay, but travelers could have faced delays in updating their U.S. passports or other travel documents.The White House has brushed aside McCarthy’s overtures to meet with Biden after the speaker walked away from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-debt-ceiling-budget-signing-f78a000d83cf85ffbaa2d08637844053#:~:text=Washington%20News-,Biden%20signs%20debt%20ceiling%20bill%20that%20pulls,from%20brink%20of%20unprecedented%20default&amp;text=WASHINGTON%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20With%20just,on%20the%20federal%20government's%20debt." target="_blank">debt deal</a>&nbsp;they brokered earlier this year that set budget levels.Catering to his hard-right flank, McCarthy had made multiple concessions including returning to the spending limits the conservatives demanded back in January as part of the deal-making to help him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-house-of-representatives-kevin-mccarthy-us-republican-party-0938c7358f41c83759246f8949ac7c15" target="_blank">become the House speaker</a>.But it was not enough as the conservatives insisted the House follow regular rules, and debate and approve each of the 12 separate spending bills needed to fund the government agencies, typically a months-long process. In the Senate, all the no votes against the package came from Republicans.McCarthy’s chief Republican critic, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, has warned he will file a motion calling a vote to oust the speaker.Some of the Republican holdouts, including Gaetz, are allies of former President Donald Trump, who is Biden’s chief rival in the 2024 race. Trump has been encouraging the Republicans to fight hard for their priorities and even to “shut it down.”At an early closed-door meeting at the Capitol, several House Republicans, particularly those facing tough reelections next year, urged their colleagues to find a way to prevent a shutdown.“All of us have a responsibility to lead and to govern,” said Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York.The lone House Democrat to vote against the package, Rep. Mike Quigley of Illinois, the co-chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, said, “Protecting Ukraine is in our national interest.”<h2>___</h2>