U.S. product regulators said Thursday that Yeti has recalled 1.9 million coolers and gear cases because magnets can come detached from them, posing a risk of serious injury or death.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said consumers should immediately stop using the four recalled products and contact Yeti for refund information.

<a href="https://stg.yeti.com/M20-M30-sidekick-product-recall.html">CLICK HERE for</a> additional details on the recall

The closures on the recalled products can fail, resulting in detached magnets, the CPSC said. If swallowed, two or more high-powered magnets can attract to each other or to another metal object and get stuck in the digestive system. The CPSC said if that happens, it can cause perforations, twisting and blockage of the intestines, potentially resulting in infection, blood poisoning and death.

The products being recalled are the Sidekick dry gear case, M20 soft backpack cooler and M30 soft cooler, version 1.0 and 2.0.

The coolers and gear bags were sold at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ace Hardware, Academy Sports and Outdoors, Yeti and other stores, including Amazon, from March 2018 to January 2023. The gear case sells for about $50 and the coolers for between $300 and $350.

The firm has received 1,399 reports of the magnet-lined closures degrading or failing, including reports of missing or detached magnets. No magnet ingestions or injuries have been reported.

Consumers can contact Yeti toll-free at 833-444-3151 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Sunday. The Austin, Texas company can also be contact by email at productrecall (at) yeti.com or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://stg.yeti.com/M20-M30-sidekick-product-recall.html">https://stg.yeti.com/M20-M30-sidekick-product-recall.html</a>&nbsp;or at www.yeti.com. Consumers should click on “Product Recall” at the bottom of the page for details.

More than 40,000 of the recalled products were sold in Canada.

Shares in Yeti were down about 1.5% in midday trading Thursday.

U.S. product regulators said Thursday that Yeti has recalled 1.9 million coolers and gear cases because magnets can come detached from them, posing a risk of serious injury or death.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FYeti%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02aRheZAnRkXxS6o52YA1GUF4729PGk2z6sgK1ibEqzBWpRh9pMfGUKWVAhvQa5trfl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="819" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The Consumer Product Safety Commission said consumers should immediately stop using the four recalled products and contact Yeti for refund information.<a href="https://stg.yeti.com/M20-M30-sidekick-product-recall.html">CLICK HERE for</a> additional details on the recallThe closures on the recalled products can fail, resulting in detached magnets, the CPSC said. If swallowed, two or more high-powered magnets can attract to each other or to another metal object and get stuck in the digestive system. The CPSC said if that happens, it can cause perforations, twisting and blockage of the intestines, potentially resulting in infection, blood poisoning and death.The products being recalled are the Sidekick dry gear case, M20 soft backpack cooler and M30 soft cooler, version 1.0 and 2.0.The coolers and gear bags were sold at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ace Hardware, Academy Sports and Outdoors, Yeti and other stores, including Amazon, from March 2018 to January 2023. The gear case sells for about $50 and the coolers for between $300 and $350.The firm has received 1,399 reports of the magnet-lined closures degrading or failing, including reports of missing or detached magnets. No magnet ingestions or injuries have been reported.Consumers can contact Yeti toll-free at 833-444-3151 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Sunday. The Austin, Texas company can also be contact by email at productrecall (at) yeti.com or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://stg.yeti.com/M20-M30-sidekick-product-recall.html">https://stg.yeti.com/M20-M30-sidekick-product-recall.html</a>&nbsp;or at www.yeti.com. Consumers should click on “Product Recall” at the bottom of the page for details.More than 40,000 of the recalled products were sold in Canada.Shares in Yeti were down about 1.5% in midday trading Thursday.

Yeti recalls 1.9 million coolers and cases for magnet hazard

By ZACH WENDLING <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-lawmaker-proposes-nonpartisan-elections-for-statewide-candidates/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraskans could decide in 2024 whether the state’s 
constitutional officers, such as the governor or secretary of state, 
should be elected on a nonpartisan basis.

<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=49986">Legislative Resolution 3CA</a>,
 proposed by State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha, would provide that the 
top two vote-getters for governor, attorney general, secretary of state,
 auditor of public accounts and state treasurer advance to the general 
election, regardless of party.

If the Legislature approves LR 3CA, voters would have the final say in 2024.

“It has worked well for the Nebraska Legislature for nearly 90 
years,” Cavanaugh said. “It’s time that we gave our voters the choice to
 make our statewide elections nonpartisan as well.”

For the Legislature, Republicans, Democrats and third parties often 
recruit and support candidates, though their party registration does not
 appear on the ballot. The top two candidates in the open primary 
advance to the November general election.

Elected state senators also do not officially organize around their 
party affiliation, though they may vote together on some issues.

Cavanaugh, a Democrat, said that some may think his proposal would 
get more Democrats elected to statewide office, but he noted that two 
Republicans would have advanced in 2022 for four of the five 
constitutional offices.

The only election where that would not have been the case was for 
governor, which was also the only race among the statewide offices where
 a Democrat ran.

In that race, Gov. Jim Pillen still would have faced State Sen. Carol
 Blood in November, since she got about 8,000 more votes in the primary 
than Charles Herbster, the Republican <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/05/13/where-herbster-stumbled-and-how-pillen-won-nebraskas-gop-gubernatorial-primary/">runner-up</a>.

Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek, who ran for the Legislature in 2022, said 
registered nonpartisans such as herself do not get to fully participate 
in the state’s primary elections, which often require voters to be a 
member of a political party, and the party decides who its nominee is.

Cavanaugh’s proposal would change that.

Larry Storer of Omaha said he supported Republican Robert Borer for 
Nebraska secretary of state in 2022, the runner-up to Republican Bob 
Evnen, who was the incumbent.

However, because of Nebraska’s election system, Evnen advanced 
alongside Libertarian Katrina Tomsen — the Libertarian and Legal 
Marijuana NOW parties each can nominate a candidate, in addition to the 
Republican and Democratic Parties.

Unless someone is a Republican or Democrat, Storer said, they have 
little power. He added that George Washington and James Madison warned 
against political factions

“Unfortunately, we didn’t learn our lessons,” Storer said.

Cavanaugh said some Democrats have criticized the proposal, as well, 
saying it would bar some Democrats from advancing past the primary.

However, Cavanaugh said, he did not introduce the proposal for 
political expediency or to get more people who agree with him elected.

Steve Davies testified against the bill. He said it would remove the 
single “easily observable description” of a candidate’s philosophy and 
policies.&nbsp;Davies said he worried the proposal would further limit 
whether voters are informed.

“If this proposal succeeds, the parties may wither away, taking away 
the structure and benefits,” Davies said. “This is one of a number of 
proposals that purport to bring a more enlightened, responsive and civil
 government but in reality deliver much less.”

Cavanaugh said voters often know candidates’ parties anyway. He also 
said he is not interested in taking candidates’ party affiliation off 
the ballot, though he said political parties should not be 
“institutionalized.”

State Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon, chair of the committee, said the 
committee received 60 letters in opposition to the bill and five in 
support.

The committee took no action on the bill at the end of the hearing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678372785822.png" alt="State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha proposes changing all statewide executive officers such as the governor to be chosen in nonpartisan elections. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha proposes changing all statewide executive officers such as the governor to be chosen in nonpartisan elections. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ZACH WENDLING <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-lawmaker-proposes-nonpartisan-elections-for-statewide-candidates/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraskans could decide in 2024 whether the state’s 
constitutional officers, such as the governor or secretary of state, 
should be elected on a nonpartisan basis.<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=49986">Legislative Resolution 3CA</a>,
 proposed by State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha, would provide that the 
top two vote-getters for governor, attorney general, secretary of state,
 auditor of public accounts and state treasurer advance to the general 
election, regardless of party.If the Legislature approves LR 3CA, voters would have the final say in 2024.“It has worked well for the Nebraska Legislature for nearly 90 
years,” Cavanaugh said. “It’s time that we gave our voters the choice to
 make our statewide elections nonpartisan as well.”For the Legislature, Republicans, Democrats and third parties often 
recruit and support candidates, though their party registration does not
 appear on the ballot. The top two candidates in the open primary 
advance to the November general election.Elected state senators also do not officially organize around their 
party affiliation, though they may vote together on some issues.<h2>Opening primaries</h2>Cavanaugh, a Democrat, said that some may think his proposal would 
get more Democrats elected to statewide office, but he noted that two 
Republicans would have advanced in 2022 for four of the five 
constitutional offices.The only election where that would not have been the case was for 
governor, which was also the only race among the statewide offices where
 a Democrat ran.In that race, Gov. Jim Pillen still would have faced State Sen. Carol
 Blood in November, since she got about 8,000 more votes in the primary 
than Charles Herbster, the Republican <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/05/13/where-herbster-stumbled-and-how-pillen-won-nebraskas-gop-gubernatorial-primary/">runner-up</a>.Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek, who ran for the Legislature in 2022, said 
registered nonpartisans such as herself do not get to fully participate 
in the state’s primary elections, which often require voters to be a 
member of a political party, and the party decides who its nominee is.Cavanaugh’s proposal would change that.<h2>Lessons of political factions</h2>Larry Storer of Omaha said he supported Republican Robert Borer for 
Nebraska secretary of state in 2022, the runner-up to Republican Bob 
Evnen, who was the incumbent.However, because of Nebraska’s election system, Evnen advanced 
alongside Libertarian Katrina Tomsen — the Libertarian and Legal 
Marijuana NOW parties each can nominate a candidate, in addition to the 
Republican and Democratic Parties.Unless someone is a Republican or Democrat, Storer said, they have 
little power. He added that George Washington and James Madison warned 
against political factions“Unfortunately, we didn’t learn our lessons,” Storer said.Cavanaugh said some Democrats have criticized the proposal, as well, 
saying it would bar some Democrats from advancing past the primary.However, Cavanaugh said, he did not introduce the proposal for 
political expediency or to get more people who agree with him elected.<h2>‘Easily observable description’</h2>Steve Davies testified against the bill. He said it would remove the 
single “easily observable description” of a candidate’s philosophy and 
policies.&nbsp;Davies said he worried the proposal would further limit 
whether voters are informed.“If this proposal succeeds, the parties may wither away, taking away 
the structure and benefits,” Davies said. “This is one of a number of 
proposals that purport to bring a more enlightened, responsive and civil
 government but in reality deliver much less.”Cavanaugh said voters often know candidates’ parties anyway. He also 
said he is not interested in taking candidates’ party affiliation off 
the ballot, though he said political parties should not be 
“institutionalized.”State Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon, chair of the committee, said the 
committee received 60 letters in opposition to the bill and five in 
support.The committee took no action on the bill at the end of the hearing.

Neb. lawmaker pitches nonpartisan elections for statewide offices

By CINDY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/03/08/housing-measures-have-legislature-hopping/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN
 — If the third time’s a charm, State Sen. Tony Vargas might move past 
the finish line this year with proposed legislation that would make it 
unlawful to deny an apartment to someone based on source of income.

The Omaha senator told a legislative 
committee Wednesday that nearly 20 other states and 100 cities have 
enacted bans similar to Legislative Bill 248.

Aimed at opening more doors to people
 who rely on benefits such as Social Security and federal housing 
vouchers to cover rent, Vargas said that landlords still would be able 
to use screening methods such as credit and background checks.

He envisions the bill reducing 
segregation and, for low-income families who use federal housing 
vouchers, creating inroads to living in newer areas with better public 
services.&nbsp;

“We need to make sure we are removing
 barriers,” Vargas told the Legislature’s Judiciary Committee. “This is 
going to impact long-term earnings, childhood educational achievement 
and the likelihood of ending up in our justice system.”

Public testimony on the proposal 
lasted nearly three hours, and was followed by hearings on five more 
landlord-tenant related bills, introduced by various senators, that 
stretched another four hours.

In a different public hearing room 
across the State Capitol, five other housing bills —&nbsp;which together seek
 a state infusion of $600 million into housing development programs — 
were being aired before the Appropriations Committee.

The day of hearings, which drew fans and critics from across the state, reinforced Nebraska’s increased attention to an a<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/01/06/nebraska-housing-council-launches-with-plan-for-35000-new-affordable-dwellings/">ffordable housing crunch</a> that several testifiers said also has inhibited economic and job growth, particularly in rural areas.

Erin Feichtinger, policy director for
 the Women’s Fund of Omaha, was among those who scooted between the two 
committee rooms to speak on more than one bill.

In advocating for LB 248, Feichtinger
 said housing needs should be attacked on more than one front. Many look
 for solutions in “bricks and mortar” — building more housing, she said.

Important also, said Feichtinger, are
 access efforts such as LB 238, which would make more existing housing 
dwellings available to low- to moderate-income families.&nbsp;

“It will give families a better chance of success,” she said.

To show the sizable demand and use of
 government rental vouchers, Vargas told the committee that the Omaha 
Housing Authority a few years ago advertised that its Section 8 list 
would open up for one day to receive applicants. He said the agency, in 
response, received 10,000 calls.

Alicia Christensen, director of 
public housing at the nonprofit Together Omaha, said people shouldn’t be
 shut out of places solely because rent is subsidized by the government.
 She and others noted that the federal rental payment goes straight to 
the landlord.

“How we pay for something shouldn’t 
determine what we can buy,” Christensen said. “Shoppers paying with cash
 don’t enjoy a wider selection at the grocery store than those paying 
with a check.”

Multiple landlords and other 
opponents spoke against the proposal. Most said their objection was with
 unresponsive housing agencies and onerous government requirements 
rather than with tenants.

Scott Hoffman, a landlord for 40 years, said he testified against the proposal the last two times it was introduced.

He noted a new element in the latest 
iteration: A landlord guarantee program, funded by $50,000 from the 
state, would be established to reimburse landlords for unpaid rent or 
tenant damages.

Hoffman said that might have been 
added because of his past criticism. But he said that the amount falls 
short and that he doesn’t think the state “should be in the business of 
bailing out the federal government.”

Said Hoffman: “Now you as a state want to fund it with $50k? That’s a joke.”

Lynn Fisher, of Nebraska Real Estate 
Owners and Management Association of Lincoln, said his organization 
includes members who accept government rental vouchers and others who 
don’t. But he said the consensus of members was to oppose the bill.

“It’s a program that can be worked 
with, but it should be a choice of the owner,” Fisher said. “A private 
property rights choice.”

Kristy Lamb, a vice president at NP 
Dodge, said the property management company oversees 4,000 apartments in
 Lincoln and Omaha and about 40% are dedicated to low- and 
moderate-income residents. Still, the company is opposed to LB 248, 
believing that property owners should have the ability to choose whether
 they want to participate in a government program such as the housing 
assistance vouchers.

The Judiciary Committee took no action on advancing the bill to the full Legislature for debate.

In the Appropriations Committee hearings, Vargas presented two more bills related to housing.

Legislative Bill 741 asks the state 
to invest $100 million into the Rural Housing Investment and Affordable 
Housing Funds, two existing programs aimed at developing housing 
accessible to working-class people.

Legislative Bill 801 calls for $200 
million for the Middle Income Workforce Housing Investment And the 
Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

The Appropriations Committee also heard public testimony on three other bills:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678372679059.jpg" alt="The costs of construction — from materials to labor — lead many developers to favor luxury home building over starter homes because they offer a higher return per square foot. Pixabay photo " />
 <figcaption>The costs of construction — from materials to labor — lead many developers to favor luxury home building over starter homes because they offer a higher return per square foot. Pixabay photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By CINDY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/03/08/housing-measures-have-legislature-hopping/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN
 — If the third time’s a charm, State Sen. Tony Vargas might move past 
the finish line this year with proposed legislation that would make it 
unlawful to deny an apartment to someone based on source of income.The Omaha senator told a legislative 
committee Wednesday that nearly 20 other states and 100 cities have 
enacted bans similar to Legislative Bill 248.Aimed at opening more doors to people
 who rely on benefits such as Social Security and federal housing 
vouchers to cover rent, Vargas said that landlords still would be able 
to use screening methods such as credit and background checks.<h2>‘Removing barriers’ </h2>He envisions the bill reducing 
segregation and, for low-income families who use federal housing 
vouchers, creating inroads to living in newer areas with better public 
services.&nbsp;“We need to make sure we are removing
 barriers,” Vargas told the Legislature’s Judiciary Committee. “This is 
going to impact long-term earnings, childhood educational achievement 
and the likelihood of ending up in our justice system.”Public testimony on the proposal 
lasted nearly three hours, and was followed by hearings on five more 
landlord-tenant related bills, introduced by various senators, that 
stretched another four hours.In a different public hearing room 
across the State Capitol, five other housing bills —&nbsp;which together seek
 a state infusion of $600 million into housing development programs — 
were being aired before the Appropriations Committee.The day of hearings, which drew fans and critics from across the state, reinforced Nebraska’s increased attention to an a<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/01/06/nebraska-housing-council-launches-with-plan-for-35000-new-affordable-dwellings/">ffordable housing crunch</a> that several testifiers said also has inhibited economic and job growth, particularly in rural areas.<h2>Crisis </h2>Erin Feichtinger, policy director for
 the Women’s Fund of Omaha, was among those who scooted between the two 
committee rooms to speak on more than one bill.In advocating for LB 248, Feichtinger
 said housing needs should be attacked on more than one front. Many look
 for solutions in “bricks and mortar” — building more housing, she said.Important also, said Feichtinger, are
 access efforts such as LB 238, which would make more existing housing 
dwellings available to low- to moderate-income families.&nbsp;“It will give families a better chance of success,” she said.To show the sizable demand and use of
 government rental vouchers, Vargas told the committee that the Omaha 
Housing Authority a few years ago advertised that its Section 8 list 
would open up for one day to receive applicants. He said the agency, in 
response, received 10,000 calls.<h2>Burdensome requirements</h2>Alicia Christensen, director of 
public housing at the nonprofit Together Omaha, said people shouldn’t be
 shut out of places solely because rent is subsidized by the government.
 She and others noted that the federal rental payment goes straight to 
the landlord.“How we pay for something shouldn’t 
determine what we can buy,” Christensen said. “Shoppers paying with cash
 don’t enjoy a wider selection at the grocery store than those paying 
with a check.”Multiple landlords and other 
opponents spoke against the proposal. Most said their objection was with
 unresponsive housing agencies and onerous government requirements 
rather than with tenants.Scott Hoffman, a landlord for 40 years, said he testified against the proposal the last two times it was introduced.He noted a new element in the latest 
iteration: A landlord guarantee program, funded by $50,000 from the 
state, would be established to reimburse landlords for unpaid rent or 
tenant damages.<h2>‘That’s a joke’</h2>Hoffman said that might have been 
added because of his past criticism. But he said that the amount falls 
short and that he doesn’t think the state “should be in the business of 
bailing out the federal government.”Said Hoffman: “Now you as a state want to fund it with $50k? That’s a joke.”Lynn Fisher, of Nebraska Real Estate 
Owners and Management Association of Lincoln, said his organization 
includes members who accept government rental vouchers and others who 
don’t. But he said the consensus of members was to oppose the bill.“It’s a program that can be worked 
with, but it should be a choice of the owner,” Fisher said. “A private 
property rights choice.”Kristy Lamb, a vice president at NP 
Dodge, said the property management company oversees 4,000 apartments in
 Lincoln and Omaha and about 40% are dedicated to low- and 
moderate-income residents. Still, the company is opposed to LB 248, 
believing that property owners should have the ability to choose whether
 they want to participate in a government program such as the housing 
assistance vouchers.The Judiciary Committee took no action on advancing the bill to the full Legislature for debate.<h2>$600 million </h2>In the Appropriations Committee hearings, Vargas presented two more bills related to housing.Legislative Bill 741 asks the state 
to invest $100 million into the Rural Housing Investment and Affordable 
Housing Funds, two existing programs aimed at developing housing 
accessible to working-class people.Legislative Bill 801 calls for $200 
million for the Middle Income Workforce Housing Investment And the 
Affordable Housing Trust Fund.The Appropriations Committee also heard public testimony on three other bills:<ul>
 <li>LB
 504, introduced by Sen. Ray Aguilar of Grand Island, seeks a $100 
million state investment into the Rural Housing Investment and 
Affordable Housing Funds.</li><li>LB
 786, introduced by Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha, seeks $100 million 
in state funds to create mixed-income housing within two miles of an 
airport, essentially North Omaha.</li><li>LB 789, by Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha, requests $100 million for “innovative housing solutions.”</li>
 </ul>

Housing measures have Nebraska Legislature hopping

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republican leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mitch-mcconnell">Mitch McConnell</a>&nbsp;suffered a concussion after a fall at a local hotel and remains hospitalized “for a few days of observation and treatment,” a spokesman said Thursday.

The Kentucky senator, 81, was at a Wednesday evening dinner for the Senate Leadership Fund, a campaign committee aligned with him, when he tripped and fell. The dinner was at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, formerly the Trump International Hotel, Washington D.C.

Spokesman David Popp said McConnell is being treated for a concussion and “is grateful to the medical professionals for their care and to his colleagues for their warm wishes.” McConnell’s office did not provide additional detail on his condition or how long he may be absent from the Senate.

President Joe Biden tweeted that he wishes McConnell a “speedy recovery” and looks forward to seeing him back on the Senate floor.

South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the No. 2 Republican, told reporters earlier on Thursday that he had not spoken to McConnell. He said he was at the dinner and McConnell had delivered remarks “as usual.”

“Evidently it happened later in the evening,” said Thune, who had moved on to another reception underway at the hotel and did not see McConnell fall.

Concussions can be serious injuries and take time for recovery. Many professional sporting associations have focused on the dangers of repetitive head injuries. Even a single incident of concussion can limit a person’s abilities as they recover.

In 2019, the GOP leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mitch-mcconnell-kentucky-ky-state-wire-politics-us-news-bac4429dc313439d87f0162f23738af2">tripped and fell at his home in Kentucky</a>, suffering a shoulder fracture. At the time, he underwent surgery to repair the fracture in his shoulder. The Senate had just started a summer recess, and he worked from home for some weeks as he recovered.

First elected in 1984, McConnell in January&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-montana-united-states-senate-new-york-city-mitch-mcconnell-41f4326218e7c2d8439ca02d09c6683b">became the longest-serving Senate leader</a>&nbsp;when the new Congress convened, breaking the previous record of 16 years.

The taciturn McConnell is often reluctant to discuss his private life. But at the start of the COVID-19 crisis he opened up about his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-ap-top-news-mitch-mcconnell-politics-ky-state-wire-f696c0bff070b46f9c62e03be50bd187">early childhood experience fighting polio</a>. He described how his mother insisted that he stay off his feet as a toddler and worked with him through a determined physical therapy regime. He has acknowledged some difficulty in adulthood climbing stairs.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said on the Senate floor Thursday morning that he had called McConnell and spoken with his staff “to extend my prayers and well wishes.”

“I joined every single one of my colleagues in wishing Leader McConnell a speedy and full recovery,” Schumer said.

The Senate, where the average age is 65, has been without several members recently due to illness.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., 53, who suffered a stroke during his campaign last year, was expected to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/john-fetterman-pennsylvania-health-stroke-fbb4da3f23cafd63367109f128441808">remain out for some weeks</a>&nbsp;as he received care for clinical depression. And Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., 89, said last week that she had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/feinstein-senate-shingles-e512f4689d34e8ecd8c02f2fc061b952">hospitalized to be treated for shingles</a>.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republican leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mitch-mcconnell">Mitch McConnell</a>&nbsp;was hospitalized after tripping at a local hotel, a spokesman for the senator said.

The Kentucky senator, who's 81, was attending a private dinner in Washington on Wednesday when he tripped. He was admitted to a hospital for treatment, spokesman Doug Andres said.

McConnell's office did not provide additional detail on his condition or how long he may be absent from the Senate.

The Senate, where the average age is 65, has been without several members recently due to illness.&nbsp; Kansas Senior Senator Jerry Moran is 68-years-old. The junior Senator from Kansas Roger Marshall is 62.

The Democratic absences have proven a challenge for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who is already navigating a very narrow 51-49 majority.

The Republicans, as the minority party, have had an easier time with intermittent absences. It is unclear if McConnell will be out on Thursday and if that would have an effect on scheduled votes. South Dakota Sen. John Thune is the Senate’s No. 2 Republican.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584959546607.png" alt="Senate Republican leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mitch-mcconnell">Mitch McConnell</a>-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Senate Republican leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mitch-mcconnell">Mitch McConnell</a>-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republican leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mitch-mcconnell">Mitch McConnell</a>&nbsp;suffered a concussion after a fall at a local hotel and remains hospitalized “for a few days of observation and treatment,” a spokesman said Thursday.The Kentucky senator, 81, was at a Wednesday evening dinner for the Senate Leadership Fund, a campaign committee aligned with him, when he tripped and fell. The dinner was at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, formerly the Trump International Hotel, Washington D.C.Spokesman David Popp said McConnell is being treated for a concussion and “is grateful to the medical professionals for their care and to his colleagues for their warm wishes.” McConnell’s office did not provide additional detail on his condition or how long he may be absent from the Senate.President Joe Biden tweeted that he wishes McConnell a “speedy recovery” and looks forward to seeing him back on the Senate floor.South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the No. 2 Republican, told reporters earlier on Thursday that he had not spoken to McConnell. He said he was at the dinner and McConnell had delivered remarks “as usual.”“Evidently it happened later in the evening,” said Thune, who had moved on to another reception underway at the hotel and did not see McConnell fall.ADVERTISEMENTConcussions can be serious injuries and take time for recovery. Many professional sporting associations have focused on the dangers of repetitive head injuries. Even a single incident of concussion can limit a person’s abilities as they recover.In 2019, the GOP leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mitch-mcconnell-kentucky-ky-state-wire-politics-us-news-bac4429dc313439d87f0162f23738af2">tripped and fell at his home in Kentucky</a>, suffering a shoulder fracture. At the time, he underwent surgery to repair the fracture in his shoulder. The Senate had just started a summer recess, and he worked from home for some weeks as he recovered.First elected in 1984, McConnell in January&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-montana-united-states-senate-new-york-city-mitch-mcconnell-41f4326218e7c2d8439ca02d09c6683b">became the longest-serving Senate leader</a>&nbsp;when the new Congress convened, breaking the previous record of 16 years.The taciturn McConnell is often reluctant to discuss his private life. But at the start of the COVID-19 crisis he opened up about his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-ap-top-news-mitch-mcconnell-politics-ky-state-wire-f696c0bff070b46f9c62e03be50bd187">early childhood experience fighting polio</a>. He described how his mother insisted that he stay off his feet as a toddler and worked with him through a determined physical therapy regime. He has acknowledged some difficulty in adulthood climbing stairs.Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said on the Senate floor Thursday morning that he had called McConnell and spoken with his staff “to extend my prayers and well wishes.”“I joined every single one of my colleagues in wishing Leader McConnell a speedy and full recovery,” Schumer said.The Senate, where the average age is 65, has been without several members recently due to illness.Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., 53, who suffered a stroke during his campaign last year, was expected to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/john-fetterman-pennsylvania-health-stroke-fbb4da3f23cafd63367109f128441808">remain out for some weeks</a>&nbsp;as he received care for clinical depression. And Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., 89, said last week that she had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/feinstein-senate-shingles-e512f4689d34e8ecd8c02f2fc061b952">hospitalized to be treated for shingles</a>.------------------------WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republican leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mitch-mcconnell">Mitch McConnell</a>&nbsp;was hospitalized after tripping at a local hotel, a spokesman for the senator said.The Kentucky senator, who's 81, was attending a private dinner in Washington on Wednesday when he tripped. He was admitted to a hospital for treatment, spokesman Doug Andres said.McConnell's office did not provide additional detail on his condition or how long he may be absent from the Senate.In 2019, the GOP leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mitch-mcconnell-kentucky-ky-state-wire-politics-us-news-bac4429dc313439d87f0162f23738af2">tripped and fell at his home in Kentucky</a>, suffering a shoulder fracture. At the time, he underwent surgery to repair the fracture in his shoulder. The Senate had just started a summer recess, and he worked from home for some weeks as he recovered.First elected in 1984, McConnell in January&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-montana-united-states-senate-new-york-city-mitch-mcconnell-41f4326218e7c2d8439ca02d09c6683b">became the longest-serving Senate leader</a>&nbsp;when the new Congress convened, breaking the previous record of 16 years.The taciturn McConnell is often reluctant to discuss his private life. But at the start of the COVID-19 crisis he opened up about his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-ap-top-news-mitch-mcconnell-politics-ky-state-wire-f696c0bff070b46f9c62e03be50bd187">early childhood experience fighting polio</a>. He described how his mother insisted that he stay off his feet as a toddler and worked with him through a determined physical therapy regime. He has acknowledged some difficulty in adulthood climbing stairs.The Senate, where the average age is 65, has been without several members recently due to illness.&nbsp; Kansas Senior Senator Jerry Moran is 68-years-old. The junior Senator from Kansas Roger Marshall is 62.Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., 53, who suffered a stroke during his campaign last year, was expected to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/john-fetterman-pennsylvania-health-stroke-fbb4da3f23cafd63367109f128441808">remain out for some weeks</a>&nbsp;as he received care for clinical depression. And Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., 89, said last week that she had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/feinstein-senate-shingles-e512f4689d34e8ecd8c02f2fc061b952">hospitalized to be treated for shingles</a>.The Democratic absences have proven a challenge for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who is already navigating a very narrow 51-49 majority.The Republicans, as the minority party, have had an easier time with intermittent absences. It is unclear if McConnell will be out on Thursday and if that would have an effect on scheduled votes. South Dakota Sen. John Thune is the Senate’s No. 2 Republican.

Average age of U.S. Senator is 65; three are now hospitalized

WASHINGTON—On Wednesday, the House Oversight Select <a href="https://clerk.house.gov/committees/VC00">Subcommittee</a> on the Coronavirus Pandemic held the panel’s first hearing of the 118th Congress on “Investigating the Origins of COVID-19,” to gather facts about the origination of the virus that has claimed nearly seven million lives globally.&nbsp; Former CDC Director Dr.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/person/?29561/RobertRedfieldMD">Robert Redfield&nbsp;</a>joined public health and science professionals and advocates to testify.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?526520-1/house-subcommittee-examines-origins-covid-19">Click here to watch a replay of the</a>&nbsp;full hearing

Mounting evidence continues to point to the virus originating from a lab leak, with the Department of Energy and Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray announcing this month they believe, based on their evaluation of the evidence, COVID-19 likely came from a lab leak in Wuhan.

WASHINGTON—On Wednesday, the House Oversight Select <a href="https://clerk.house.gov/committees/VC00">Subcommittee</a> on the Coronavirus Pandemic held the panel’s first hearing of the 118th Congress on “Investigating the Origins of COVID-19,” to gather facts about the origination of the virus that has claimed nearly seven million lives globally.&nbsp; Former CDC Director Dr.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/person/?29561/RobertRedfieldMD">Robert Redfield&nbsp;</a>joined public health and science professionals and advocates to testify.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?526520-1/house-subcommittee-examines-origins-covid-19">Click here to watch a replay of the</a>&nbsp;full hearing<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepMalliotakis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepMalliotakis</a>: &quot;Do you think that Dr. Fauci intentionally lied under oath to Senator Paul when he vehemently denied NIH&#39;s funding of gain of function research?&quot; Former CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield: &quot;I think there’s no doubt that NIH was funding gain of function research.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/5xB6BeVlNx">pic.twitter.com/5xB6BeVlNx</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1633620614001950722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Mounting evidence continues to point to the virus originating from a lab leak, with the Department of Energy and Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray announcing this month they believe, based on their evaluation of the evidence, COVID-19 likely came from a lab leak in Wuhan.

🎥House Oversight holds hearing on origins of COVID-19

United
 States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Jeffrey Stenstrom, 42, of
 Omaha pleaded guilty to a Criminal Information today charging
 him with Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.


 Stenstrom faces a maximum possible punishment of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of $500,000 or twice the amount of the laundered 
funds, or both. As part of his sentence, Stenstrom has agreed to pay 
restitution in excess of $5,100,000 to Darland Properties LLC. Stenstrom also admitted to forfeiture allegations agreeing to 
forfeit his interest in a 2020 McLaren 600LT Spider, multiple trucks, 
various items of jewelry, a residence in Arizona, multiple properties in
 Nebraska, currency, and multiple life insurance
 policies worth in excess of $2,000,000. 

United
 States Magistrate Judge Michael D. Nelson ordered a Pre-Sentence 
Investigation be conducted and set Stenstrom’s sentencing hearing in 
front of Chief United States District Court Judge
 Robert F. Rossiter Jr. for June 2 at 1:30 pm. 

Stenstrom
 is also currently pending sentencing for Income Tax Evasion in a 
different matter where he faces a maximum possible punishment of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.
 In that matter Stenstrom agreed to pay $1,954,505.10 in restitution to 
the Internal Revenue Service.


This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.


U.S. Attorney's OfficeUnited
 States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Jeffrey Stenstrom, 42, of
 Omaha pleaded guilty to a Criminal Information today charging
 him with Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
 Stenstrom faces a maximum possible punishment of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of $500,000 or twice the amount of the laundered 
funds, or both. As part of his sentence, Stenstrom has agreed to pay 
restitution in excess of $5,100,000 to Darland Properties LLC. Stenstrom also admitted to forfeiture allegations agreeing to 
forfeit his interest in a 2020 McLaren 600LT Spider, multiple trucks, 
various items of jewelry, a residence in Arizona, multiple properties in
 Nebraska, currency, and multiple life insurance
 policies worth in excess of $2,000,000. United
 States Magistrate Judge Michael D. Nelson ordered a Pre-Sentence 
Investigation be conducted and set Stenstrom’s sentencing hearing in 
front of Chief United States District Court Judge
 Robert F. Rossiter Jr. for June 2 at 1:30 pm. Stenstrom
 is also currently pending sentencing for Income Tax Evasion in a 
different matter where he faces a maximum possible punishment of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.
 In that matter Stenstrom agreed to pay $1,954,505.10 in restitution to 
the Internal Revenue Service.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Neb. man pleads guilty in multimillion-dollar embezzlement scheme

WASHINGTON— Gigi Sohn,&nbsp;President Biden’s nominee to run the&nbsp;Federal Communications Commission withdrew her name from consideration Tuesday, according to a statement from the White House. It was clear her nomination didn't have the votes necessary for confirmation after West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin announced late Tuesday he would not vote for her.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-to-vote-no-on-gigi-sohn-for-fcc-commissioner">According to a statement from Manchin's</a> office, "Sohn has faced unprecedented, bipartisan opposition to her nomination as a result of her years of partisan activism, inflammatory statements online, and work with far-left groups. She has also spent many years as a public interest advocate, using similarly inflammatory language on social media."

Sohn would have been the first openly gay FCC commissioner.

The commission currently comprises two Republican and two Democrat members. Sohn would have been the tie-breaking vote if she had been confirmed.

Democrat Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash), who chairs the Senate Commerce Committee, has long supported Sohn’s nomination and made clear she wanted President Biden to renominate her to break the deadlock at the commission.&nbsp;

“While I am disappointed, I respect Gigi Sohn’s &nbsp;decision to withdraw her nomination as an FCC Commissioner.&nbsp;Throughout the past 16 months, Ms. Sohn has demonstrated her expertise in telecommunications law, deep experience and commitment to ensuring that every American has access to affordable broadband regardless of where they live."

Sen. Cantwell also made clear the intent of the smear campaign orchestrated by opponents, calling the personal attacks “distractions from the fact that Ms. Sohn is immensely qualified for this position and a highly effective, would be, FCC commissioner…this is a proxy fight for net neutrality.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678297064058.png" alt="Gigi Sohn during her February confirmation hearing -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Gigi Sohn during her February confirmation hearing -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— Gigi Sohn,&nbsp;President Biden’s nominee to run the&nbsp;Federal Communications Commission withdrew her name from consideration Tuesday, according to a statement from the White House. It was clear her nomination didn't have the votes necessary for confirmation after West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin announced late Tuesday he would not vote for her.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.manchin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manchin-to-vote-no-on-gigi-sohn-for-fcc-commissioner">According to a statement from Manchin's</a> office, "Sohn has faced unprecedented, bipartisan opposition to her nomination as a result of her years of partisan activism, inflammatory statements online, and work with far-left groups. She has also spent many years as a public interest advocate, using similarly inflammatory language on social media."Sohn would have been the first openly gay FCC commissioner.The commission currently comprises two Republican and two Democrat members. Sohn would have been the tie-breaking vote if she had been confirmed.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I&#39;ll have much more to say in the coming days and weeks, but I want to thank everyone for their love and support here, in messages, emails and phone calls. I&#39;m especially moved by the support of those who have disagreed with me on the left and the right.&mdash; Gigi Sohn (@gigibsohn) <a href="https://twitter.com/gigibsohn/status/1633479326367711233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Democrat Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash), who chairs the Senate Commerce Committee, has long supported Sohn’s nomination and made clear she wanted President Biden to renominate her to break the deadlock at the commission.&nbsp;“While I am disappointed, I respect Gigi Sohn’s &nbsp;decision to withdraw her nomination as an FCC Commissioner.&nbsp;Throughout the past 16 months, Ms. Sohn has demonstrated her expertise in telecommunications law, deep experience and commitment to ensuring that every American has access to affordable broadband regardless of where they live."Sen. Cantwell also made clear the intent of the smear campaign orchestrated by opponents, calling the personal attacks “distractions from the fact that Ms. Sohn is immensely qualified for this position and a highly effective, would be, FCC commissioner…this is a proxy fight for net neutrality.”

Controversial choice to run FCC withdraws nomination

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/03/08/conservatives-win-another-legislative-battle-advance-opportunity-scholarship-bill/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska would join 48 other states in providing some form of public funds to private schools under a bill given 31-12 first-round approval Wednesday.

The advancement of the Opportunity Scholarships Act marks the first 
time in several years that a “school choice” bill has moved forward in 
the Nebraska Legislature.

It also marks another preliminary win for conservatives in the 
49-seat Unicameral, coming a week after first-round approval of a 
measure allowing carrying of a concealed weapon without state-approved 
training and a state permit.

The 
vote to end a filibuster against the scholarship bill squeaked by a 
33-12 vote — 33 is the minimum required — which may portend some 
challenges ahead for <a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=50326">Legislative Bill 753</a>.

A political organizer for the powerful state teachers union pledged 
Wednesday that if the bill eventually passes, he will recommend that 
public school proponents mount a petition drive to put the issue on the 
ballot.

“The perception that this is popular (with voters) is a complete 
misnomer,” said Brian Mikkelsen, the political action director for NSEA.
 He added that Nebraska voters have rejected providing public funds for 
private schools three previous times.

LB 753 provides a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for money donated to 
an organization that provides scholarships for students attending 
private and parochial schools.

The bill, which is part of Gov. Jim Pillen’s ambitious package of 
education proposals, would provide $25 million a year in tax credits, 
which could increase to up to $100 million a year in the event the 
yearly credit amount is used.

Currently, only Nebraska and North Dakota do not offer some kind of 
state funding of private schools, via vouchers, charter schools or 
similar scholarship-donation programs.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, who has introduced 
unsuccessful private school scholarship bills in the past, said she was 
thrilled the bill has advanced but disappointed that she couldn’t 
“convince everybody” that the bill was a good idea.

She credited Wednesday’s advancement to the election of new, more 
conservative senators to the Legislature, as well as the shift of North 
Omaha Sen. Terrell McKinney from “no” to “yes” on the bill.

Two senators who voted to end the filibuster did not vote to advance 
the bill — Sens. Myron Dorn of Adams and Jana Hughes of Seward — but one
 supporter of the measure was absent, Grand Island Sen. Ray Aguilar. So 
that would leave support for the bill at 32 votes, one short of the 33 
votes needed to end a filibuster during second-round debate.

Linehan said she may seek an amendment to the bill to ensure that the
 scholarships aren’t just going to Omaha parochial and private schools, 
but she was unsure if other changes would be necessary.

“I think a lot of what I’m dealing with is misinformation,” she said.

Once the governor’s educational funding bill gets advanced to floor 
debate, the senator said “it will be more obvious that this is for 
everybody.”

Much of the three-day debate on LB 753 focused on whether it diverted
 money away from public education and whether the generous 
dollar-for-dollar tax credit was too generous.

Linehan and other advocates said that low-income families deserve the
 same option of private schools as families that can already afford the 
tuition. LB 753, which gives highest priority to kids in poverty, would 
do that, they said.

“The people who are against choice 
(already) have choice,” said Omaha Sen. Justin Wayne, a former Omaha 
Public School Board member.

He and McKinney, who also represents 
North Omaha, said members of their community want an alternative to 
public schools but say that is unaffordable for many families.&nbsp;

Opponents of LB 753 argued that there’s no proof that low-income 
children have higher achievement scores if they shift to a private 
school and that “opening the door” to public funds for such schools will
 eventually lead to charter schools, voucher programs and “voucher 
schools” that pop up in strip malls to take advantage of the 
government-inspired funds.

Lincoln Sen. George Dungan said he was concerned that “saavy” 
operators would set up scholarship granting organizations to collect 
funds for low-budget schools they set up to capitalize on the new funds.

Linehan, after Wednesday’s debate, said she doubted that would happen.

Some opponents of LB 753 said it was disingenuous for some supporters
 of the bill to speak about their support for low-income kids when they 
won’t support other measures to help poor families, such as extending 
enhanced food stamp benefits that are expiring in October.

“I have a bill that feeds families and puts food in the mouths of kids,” said Sen. Jen Day of Gretna of her LB 84. 

She said she doubts she can even get the bill advanced out of a committee to be debated by the full Legislature.

“It’s a lie … to say you care about poor kids,” Day said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678305257894.png" alt="State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the main sponsor of the Opportunity Scholarships Act. (Courtesy of Unicameral Information Office)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the main sponsor of the Opportunity Scholarships Act. (Courtesy of Unicameral Information Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/03/08/conservatives-win-another-legislative-battle-advance-opportunity-scholarship-bill/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraska would join 48 other states in providing some form of public funds to private schools under a bill given 31-12 first-round approval Wednesday.The advancement of the Opportunity Scholarships Act marks the first 
time in several years that a “school choice” bill has moved forward in 
the Nebraska Legislature.It also marks another preliminary win for conservatives in the 
49-seat Unicameral, coming a week after first-round approval of a 
measure allowing carrying of a concealed weapon without state-approved 
training and a state permit.The 
vote to end a filibuster against the scholarship bill squeaked by a 
33-12 vote — 33 is the minimum required — which may portend some 
challenges ahead for <a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=50326">Legislative Bill 753</a>.A political organizer for the powerful state teachers union pledged 
Wednesday that if the bill eventually passes, he will recommend that 
public school proponents mount a petition drive to put the issue on the 
ballot.<h2>Not popular with voters</h2>“The perception that this is popular (with voters) is a complete 
misnomer,” said Brian Mikkelsen, the political action director for NSEA.
 He added that Nebraska voters have rejected providing public funds for 
private schools three previous times.LB 753 provides a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for money donated to 
an organization that provides scholarships for students attending 
private and parochial schools.The bill, which is part of Gov. Jim Pillen’s ambitious package of 
education proposals, would provide $25 million a year in tax credits, 
which could increase to up to $100 million a year in the event the 
yearly credit amount is used.Currently, only Nebraska and North Dakota do not offer some kind of 
state funding of private schools, via vouchers, charter schools or 
similar scholarship-donation programs.<h2>Thrilled by advancement</h2>State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, who has introduced 
unsuccessful private school scholarship bills in the past, said she was 
thrilled the bill has advanced but disappointed that she couldn’t 
“convince everybody” that the bill was a good idea.She credited Wednesday’s advancement to the election of new, more 
conservative senators to the Legislature, as well as the shift of North 
Omaha Sen. Terrell McKinney from “no” to “yes” on the bill.Two senators who voted to end the filibuster did not vote to advance 
the bill — Sens. Myron Dorn of Adams and Jana Hughes of Seward — but one
 supporter of the measure was absent, Grand Island Sen. Ray Aguilar. So 
that would leave support for the bill at 32 votes, one short of the 33 
votes needed to end a filibuster during second-round debate.<h2>Not sure about amendments</h2>Linehan said she may seek an amendment to the bill to ensure that the
 scholarships aren’t just going to Omaha parochial and private schools, 
but she was unsure if other changes would be necessary.“I think a lot of what I’m dealing with is misinformation,” she said.Once the governor’s educational funding bill gets advanced to floor 
debate, the senator said “it will be more obvious that this is for 
everybody.”Much of the three-day debate on LB 753 focused on whether it diverted
 money away from public education and whether the generous 
dollar-for-dollar tax credit was too generous.Linehan and other advocates said that low-income families deserve the
 same option of private schools as families that can already afford the 
tuition. LB 753, which gives highest priority to kids in poverty, would 
do that, they said.“The people who are against choice 
(already) have choice,” said Omaha Sen. Justin Wayne, a former Omaha 
Public School Board member.<h2>Support from North Omaha senators]</h2>He and McKinney, who also represents 
North Omaha, said members of their community want an alternative to 
public schools but say that is unaffordable for many families.&nbsp;Opponents of LB 753 argued that there’s no proof that low-income 
children have higher achievement scores if they shift to a private 
school and that “opening the door” to public funds for such schools will
 eventually lead to charter schools, voucher programs and “voucher 
schools” that pop up in strip malls to take advantage of the 
government-inspired funds.Lincoln Sen. George Dungan said he was concerned that “saavy” 
operators would set up scholarship granting organizations to collect 
funds for low-budget schools they set up to capitalize on the new funds.Linehan, after Wednesday’s debate, said she doubted that would happen.Some opponents of LB 753 said it was disingenuous for some supporters
 of the bill to speak about their support for low-income kids when they 
won’t support other measures to help poor families, such as extending 
enhanced food stamp benefits that are expiring in October.“I have a bill that feeds families and puts food in the mouths of kids,” said Sen. Jen Day of Gretna of her LB 84. She said she doubts she can even get the bill advanced out of a committee to be debated by the full Legislature.“It’s a lie … to say you care about poor kids,” Day said.

‘Opportunity scholarship’ bill advances in Neb. Legislature

DETROIT
 (AP) — U.S. safety regulators are turning up the heat on Tesla, 
announcing investigations into steering wheels coming off some SUVs and a
 fatal crash involving a Tesla suspected of using an automated driving 
system when it ran into a parked firetruck in California.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Wednesday it is launching a special crash-investigation team to probe <a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-injuries-fires-59d22dced75ec1ce6929c9dfb094524c">the Feb. 18 crash</a> involving a Tesla Model S and a ladder truck from the Contra Costa County fire department.

The
 firetruck probe is part of a larger investigation by the agency into 
multiple instances of Teslas using the automaker’s Autopilot system 
crashing into parked emergency vehicles that are tending to other 
crashes. NHTSA has become more aggressive in pursuing safety problems 
with Teslas in the past year, announcing multiple recalls and 
investigations.

The driver of the 2014 Tesla Model S was killed in
 the crash and a passenger critically injured. Four firefighters were 
treated for minor injuries, and the $1.4 million ladder truck was 
damaged.

NHTSA is investigating how the Autopilot system <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-7f8233589a3ae31bee32a1a939ac5e20">detects and responds to emergency vehicles</a> parked on highways. At least 15 Teslas have crashed into emergency vehicles nationwide while using the system.

Authorities
 said the truck had its lights on and was parked diagonally on 
northbound lanes of Interstate 680 to protect responders to an earlier 
accident that did not result in injuries.

A NHTSA spokeswoman said
 she couldn't comment on an open investigation when asked if the Teslas 
are posing a danger to emergency workers.

NHTSA has been scrutinizing Teslas more intensely in the past year, seeking several recalls and opening investigations.

Earlier
 Wednesday, the agency posted documents revealing that it's 
investigating steering wheels that can detach from the steering column 
on as many as 120,000 Model Y SUVs.

The agency said it received 
two complaints in which 2023 Model Ys were delivered to customers with a
 missing bolt that holds the wheel to the steering column. A friction 
fit held the steering wheels on, but they separated when force was 
exerted while the SUVs were being driven.

The agency says in documents <a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/inv/2023/INOA-PE23003-5769.PDF">posted on its website</a> Wednesday that both incidents happened while the SUVs had low mileage on them.

In
 one complaint filed with NHTSA, an owner said he was driving with his 
family on Route 1 in Woodbridge, New Jersey, when the steering wheel 
suddenly came off on Jan. 29, five days after the vehicle was purchased.
 The owner wrote that there were no cars behind him, and he was able to 
pull toward the road divider. There were no injuries.

It was a 
"horrible experience," the car's owner, Prerak Patel, told The 
Associated Press. He said he was in the freeway's left lane when the 
steering wheel came off and was lucky the road was straight and he was 
able to stop the car at the divider.

Messages were left seeking 
comment from Tesla, which is based in Austin, Texas, and has disbanded 
its media relations department.

At first a Tesla service center 
gave Patel a cost estimate of $103.96 to repair the problem. The service
 center apologized in what appear to be text messages posted on Twitter.

When
 Patel wrote that he had lost faith in Tesla and asked for a refund, the
 service center removed the charge and wrote that Tesla doesn't have a 
return policy, but he could reach out to the sales and delivery team.

Patel
 was later given the option of keeping the car or getting it replaced 
with a new one. Patel said he chose to get a replacement.

Patel 
said he's a fan of Tesla CEO Elon Musk and has invested a large chunk of
 his savings in the company's stock, which fell about 3% Wednesday.

“My
 kids were a little scared to ride in a loaner Tesla and, as a parent, 
we are able to restore their confidence,” Patel said. He said he hopes 
Tesla will investigate and improve its quality control "so no other 
family experiences what we experienced."

Detached steering wheels 
are rare in the auto industry, but not unprecedented. In February, 
Nissan recalled about 1,000 Ariya electric vehicles because the wheels 
could come off of the steering column due to a loose bolt.

In addition to the Autopilot investigation, NHTSA has opened investigations during the past three years into Teslas <a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-politics-health-cd1a51e26baa07678de50cab8ae90ee0">braking suddenly for no reason,</a> suspension problems and other issues.

In February, NHTSA pressured Tesla into recalling <a href="https://apnews.com/article/tesla-recalls-full-self-driving-cars-875b54d4b71e97d43a17e968d7b856ae">nearly 363,000 vehicles with “Full Self-Driving” software</a>
 because the system can break traffic laws. The system, which cannot 
drive itself, is being tested on public roads by as many as 400,000 
Tesla owners. But NHTSA said in documents that it can make unsafe 
actions such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a 
turn-only lane, going through a yellow traffic light without proper 
caution or failing to respond to changes in posted speed limits.

The <a href="https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-technology-accidents-business-f4f59a574cbe3fe2214c573ab81d47d3">U.S. Justice Department also has asked Tesla</a> for documents from Tesla about “Full Self-Driving” and Autopilot.

Tesla
 says in its owners manual that neither Autopilot nor “Full 
Self-Driving” can drive themselves, and that owners must be ready to 
intervene at all times.

NHTSA has sent investigators to 35 Tesla 
crashes in which automated systems are suspected of being used. Nineteen
 people have died in those crashes, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-12ba38bd863e2b128a8e2914179049e0">including two motorcyclists.</a>

Since
 January of 2022, Tesla has issued 20 recalls, including several that 
were required by NHTSA. The recalls include one from January of last 
year for “Full Self-Driving” vehicles being programmed to run stop signs
 at slow speeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678303755802.jpeg" alt="A Tesla Model Y Long Range is displayed on Feb. 24, 2021, at the Tesla Gallery in Troy, Mich. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File)" />
 <figcaption>A Tesla Model Y Long Range is displayed on Feb. 24, 2021, at the Tesla Gallery in Troy, Mich. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT
 (AP) — U.S. safety regulators are turning up the heat on Tesla, 
announcing investigations into steering wheels coming off some SUVs and a
 fatal crash involving a Tesla suspected of using an automated driving 
system when it ran into a parked firetruck in California.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Wednesday it is launching a special crash-investigation team to probe <a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-injuries-fires-59d22dced75ec1ce6929c9dfb094524c">the Feb. 18 crash</a> involving a Tesla Model S and a ladder truck from the Contra Costa County fire department.The
 firetruck probe is part of a larger investigation by the agency into 
multiple instances of Teslas using the automaker’s Autopilot system 
crashing into parked emergency vehicles that are tending to other 
crashes. NHTSA has become more aggressive in pursuing safety problems 
with Teslas in the past year, announcing multiple recalls and 
investigations.The driver of the 2014 Tesla Model S was killed in
 the crash and a passenger critically injured. Four firefighters were 
treated for minor injuries, and the $1.4 million ladder truck was 
damaged.NHTSA is investigating how the Autopilot system <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-7f8233589a3ae31bee32a1a939ac5e20">detects and responds to emergency vehicles</a> parked on highways. At least 15 Teslas have crashed into emergency vehicles nationwide while using the system.Authorities
 said the truck had its lights on and was parked diagonally on 
northbound lanes of Interstate 680 to protect responders to an earlier 
accident that did not result in injuries.A NHTSA spokeswoman said
 she couldn't comment on an open investigation when asked if the Teslas 
are posing a danger to emergency workers.NHTSA has been scrutinizing Teslas more intensely in the past year, seeking several recalls and opening investigations.Earlier
 Wednesday, the agency posted documents revealing that it's 
investigating steering wheels that can detach from the steering column 
on as many as 120,000 Model Y SUVs.The agency said it received 
two complaints in which 2023 Model Ys were delivered to customers with a
 missing bolt that holds the wheel to the steering column. A friction 
fit held the steering wheels on, but they separated when force was 
exerted while the SUVs were being driven.The agency says in documents <a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/inv/2023/INOA-PE23003-5769.PDF">posted on its website</a> Wednesday that both incidents happened while the SUVs had low mileage on them.In
 one complaint filed with NHTSA, an owner said he was driving with his 
family on Route 1 in Woodbridge, New Jersey, when the steering wheel 
suddenly came off on Jan. 29, five days after the vehicle was purchased.
 The owner wrote that there were no cars behind him, and he was able to 
pull toward the road divider. There were no injuries.It was a 
"horrible experience," the car's owner, Prerak Patel, told The 
Associated Press. He said he was in the freeway's left lane when the 
steering wheel came off and was lucky the road was straight and he was 
able to stop the car at the divider.Messages were left seeking 
comment from Tesla, which is based in Austin, Texas, and has disbanded 
its media relations department.At first a Tesla service center 
gave Patel a cost estimate of $103.96 to repair the problem. The service
 center apologized in what appear to be text messages posted on Twitter.When
 Patel wrote that he had lost faith in Tesla and asked for a refund, the
 service center removed the charge and wrote that Tesla doesn't have a 
return policy, but he could reach out to the sales and delivery team.Patel
 was later given the option of keeping the car or getting it replaced 
with a new one. Patel said he chose to get a replacement.Patel 
said he's a fan of Tesla CEO Elon Musk and has invested a large chunk of
 his savings in the company's stock, which fell about 3% Wednesday.“My
 kids were a little scared to ride in a loaner Tesla and, as a parent, 
we are able to restore their confidence,” Patel said. He said he hopes 
Tesla will investigate and improve its quality control "so no other 
family experiences what we experienced."Detached steering wheels 
are rare in the auto industry, but not unprecedented. In February, 
Nissan recalled about 1,000 Ariya electric vehicles because the wheels 
could come off of the steering column due to a loose bolt.In addition to the Autopilot investigation, NHTSA has opened investigations during the past three years into Teslas <a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-politics-health-cd1a51e26baa07678de50cab8ae90ee0">braking suddenly for no reason,</a> suspension problems and other issues.In February, NHTSA pressured Tesla into recalling <a href="https://apnews.com/article/tesla-recalls-full-self-driving-cars-875b54d4b71e97d43a17e968d7b856ae">nearly 363,000 vehicles with “Full Self-Driving” software</a>
 because the system can break traffic laws. The system, which cannot 
drive itself, is being tested on public roads by as many as 400,000 
Tesla owners. But NHTSA said in documents that it can make unsafe 
actions such as traveling straight through an intersection while in a 
turn-only lane, going through a yellow traffic light without proper 
caution or failing to respond to changes in posted speed limits.The <a href="https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-technology-accidents-business-f4f59a574cbe3fe2214c573ab81d47d3">U.S. Justice Department also has asked Tesla</a> for documents from Tesla about “Full Self-Driving” and Autopilot.Tesla
 says in its owners manual that neither Autopilot nor “Full 
Self-Driving” can drive themselves, and that owners must be ready to 
intervene at all times.NHTSA has sent investigators to 35 Tesla 
crashes in which automated systems are suspected of being used. Nineteen
 people have died in those crashes, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-12ba38bd863e2b128a8e2914179049e0">including two motorcyclists.</a>Since
 January of 2022, Tesla has issued 20 recalls, including several that 
were required by NHTSA. The recalls include one from January of last 
year for “Full Self-Driving” vehicles being programmed to run stop signs
 at slow speeds.

US probes Tesla Autopilot, steering wheels that can come off

Walgreens says it will not start selling an abortion pill in 20 states that had warned of legal consequences if it did so.

The drugstore chain’s announcement signals that access to mifepristone may not expand as broadly as federal regulators intended in January, when they finalized a rule change allowing more pharmacies to provide the pill.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved mifepristone in 2000 to end pregnancy, when used in combination with a second drug, misoprostol. The combination is approved for use up to the 10th week of pregnancy.

Mifepristone is taken first to dilate the cervix and block a hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy. Misoprostol is taken a day or two later, causing contractions to empty the uterus.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-science-health-medication-56972af9e9b0fc2fc97e06041f6e96ce">More than half</a>&nbsp;of U.S. abortions are now done with pills rather than with a procedure, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights. In rare cases, the drug combination can cause excess bleeding, requiring emergency care.

For more than 20 years, the FDA limited dispensing of mifepristone to a subset of specialty offices and clinics due to safety concerns.

The agency has repeatedly eased restrictions and expanded access, increasing demand even as state laws make the pills harder to get for many women.

In late 2021, the agency eliminated an in-person requirement for getting the pill, saying a new scientific review showed no increase in safety complications if the drug is taken at home. That change also permitted the pill to be prescribed via telehealth and shipped by mail-order pharmacies.

Earlier this year, the FDA further loosened restrictions by allowing pharmacies like Walgreens to start dispensing the drug after they undergo certification. That includes meeting standards for shipping, tracking and confidentially storing prescribing information.

Typically, the FDA’s authority to regulate prescription drug access has gone unchallenged. But more than a dozen states now have laws restricting abortion broadly — and the pills specifically — following last year’s Supreme Court decision overturning the federal right to abortion.

Last month, attorneys general in 20 conservative-led states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-missouri-state-government-west-virginia-united-states-us-food-and-drug-administration-a1b1a387788bb5aaa39c9ce4128d77ab">warned</a>&nbsp;CVS and Walgreens in a letter that they could face legal consequences if they sell abortion pills by mail in their states.

In addition to state laws, attorneys general from conservative states have argued that shipments of mifepristone run afoul of a 19th century law that prohibited sending items used in abortion through the mail.

A spokesman says the company told the attorneys general that it will not dispense mifepristone in their states and it doesn't plan to ship the drug to them as well.

But Walgreens is working to become eligible through the FDA’s certification process. It plans to dispense the pills where it can legally do so.

The company is not currently dispensing the pills anywhere.

Rite Aid Corp. said it was “monitoring the latest federal, state, legal and regulatory developments” and would keep evaluating its policies. The Associated Press also sought comment from CVS Health Corp., retail giant Walmart and the grocery chain Kroger.

Some independent pharmacists would like to become certified to dispense the pills, said Andrea Pivarunas, a spokeswoman for the National Community Pharmacists Association. She added that this would be a “personal business decision," based partly on state laws. The association has no specifics on how many will do it.

In November, an anti-abortion group filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-business-texas-lawsuits-71b8e54b97b016bf2cc0d9380d478991">federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;in Texas seeking to revoke mifepristone's approval, claiming the FDA approved the drug 23 years ago without adequate evidence of safety.

A federal judge could rule soon. If he sides with abortion opponents, mifepristone could potentially be removed from the U.S. market.

In January, abortion rights supporters filed separate lawsuits challenging abortion pill restrictions imposed in North Carolina and West Virginia.

Legal experts foresee years of court battles over access to the pills.

AP Health Writer Matthew Perrone contributed to this story.

By TOM MURPHY AP Health WriterWalgreens says it will not start selling an abortion pill in 20 states that had warned of legal consequences if it did so.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">California won&#39;t be doing business with <a href="https://twitter.com/Walgreens?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@walgreens</a> -- or any company that cowers to the extremists and puts women&#39;s lives at risk. We&#39;re done.<a href="https://t.co/OB10cYfm8H">https://t.co/OB10cYfm8H</a>&mdash; Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) <a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1632811406344192000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The drugstore chain’s announcement signals that access to mifepristone may not expand as broadly as federal regulators intended in January, when they finalized a rule change allowing more pharmacies to provide the pill.Here’s a closer look at the issue.ABOUT THE ABORTION PILLThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved mifepristone in 2000 to end pregnancy, when used in combination with a second drug, misoprostol. The combination is approved for use up to the 10th week of pregnancy.Mifepristone is taken first to dilate the cervix and block a hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy. Misoprostol is taken a day or two later, causing contractions to empty the uterus.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-science-health-medication-56972af9e9b0fc2fc97e06041f6e96ce">More than half</a>&nbsp;of U.S. abortions are now done with pills rather than with a procedure, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights. In rare cases, the drug combination can cause excess bleeding, requiring emergency care.WIDENING ACCESSFor more than 20 years, the FDA limited dispensing of mifepristone to a subset of specialty offices and clinics due to safety concerns.The agency has repeatedly eased restrictions and expanded access, increasing demand even as state laws make the pills harder to get for many women.In late 2021, the agency eliminated an in-person requirement for getting the pill, saying a new scientific review showed no increase in safety complications if the drug is taken at home. That change also permitted the pill to be prescribed via telehealth and shipped by mail-order pharmacies.Earlier this year, the FDA further loosened restrictions by allowing pharmacies like Walgreens to start dispensing the drug after they undergo certification. That includes meeting standards for shipping, tracking and confidentially storing prescribing information.STATES STEP INTypically, the FDA’s authority to regulate prescription drug access has gone unchallenged. But more than a dozen states now have laws restricting abortion broadly — and the pills specifically — following last year’s Supreme Court decision overturning the federal right to abortion.Last month, attorneys general in 20 conservative-led states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-missouri-state-government-west-virginia-united-states-us-food-and-drug-administration-a1b1a387788bb5aaa39c9ce4128d77ab">warned</a>&nbsp;CVS and Walgreens in a letter that they could face legal consequences if they sell abortion pills by mail in their states.In addition to state laws, attorneys general from conservative states have argued that shipments of mifepristone run afoul of a 19th century law that prohibited sending items used in abortion through the mail.WALGREENS' REACTIONA spokesman says the company told the attorneys general that it will not dispense mifepristone in their states and it doesn't plan to ship the drug to them as well.But Walgreens is working to become eligible through the FDA’s certification process. It plans to dispense the pills where it can legally do so.The company is not currently dispensing the pills anywhere.OTHER DRUGSTORESRite Aid Corp. said it was “monitoring the latest federal, state, legal and regulatory developments” and would keep evaluating its policies. The Associated Press also sought comment from CVS Health Corp., retail giant Walmart and the grocery chain Kroger.Some independent pharmacists would like to become certified to dispense the pills, said Andrea Pivarunas, a spokeswoman for the National Community Pharmacists Association. She added that this would be a “personal business decision," based partly on state laws. The association has no specifics on how many will do it.OTHER LEGAL ISSUESIn November, an anti-abortion group filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-business-texas-lawsuits-71b8e54b97b016bf2cc0d9380d478991">federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;in Texas seeking to revoke mifepristone's approval, claiming the FDA approved the drug 23 years ago without adequate evidence of safety.A federal judge could rule soon. If he sides with abortion opponents, mifepristone could potentially be removed from the U.S. market.In January, abortion rights supporters filed separate lawsuits challenging abortion pill restrictions imposed in North Carolina and West Virginia.Legal experts foresee years of court battles over access to the pills.___AP Health Writer Matthew Perrone contributed to this story.______

The implications of Walgreens' decision on abortion pills

WASHINGTON—International Women's Day is March 8. A day set aside to honor and recognize the accomplishments of women while acknowledging there is still progress to be made toward gender equality.

President Biden issued a statement recognizing the day.

"International Women’s Day&nbsp;honors a truth we live every day—that women and girls&nbsp;are essential to success and progress in every aspect of our society."

"Promoting opportunities for women and girls strengthens security, stability, and prosperity for everyone.&nbsp;And we know&nbsp;that we cannot solve any of the great global challenges of our time if half the population is left behind."

"So today, as we celebrate&nbsp;the accomplishments&nbsp;and contributions&nbsp;of women and girls around the world,&nbsp;we also&nbsp;reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all people&nbsp;can reach their full potential." "Despite decades of progress, in&nbsp;far&nbsp;too many places around&nbsp;the world, the rights of women and girls are&nbsp;still under&nbsp;attack, holding back entire communities."

"We see it in Afghanistan, where the Taliban bars women and girls&nbsp;from&nbsp;attending&nbsp;school and&nbsp;pursuing&nbsp;employment. We see it in Iran, where the regime is brutally repressing the voices of women who are courageously standing up for their freedom. And in the face of&nbsp;Russia’s&nbsp;vicious and&nbsp;unjust invasion of Ukraine, including the use of rape as a weapon of war, we see countless stories of women&nbsp;bravely fighting for&nbsp;the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all&nbsp;Ukrainians." "The United States stands with women and girls around the world&nbsp;in the critical work of protecting and advancing&nbsp;human rights. My&nbsp;Administration&nbsp;is&nbsp;working with&nbsp;dedicated partners&nbsp;and local communities in every part of the world to expand&nbsp;economic security&nbsp;for women and girls, defend access to health care—including reproductive health care—safeguard women’s political participation and human rights, and promote the&nbsp;full participation of women and girls&nbsp;in all facets of society."

"Through initiatives like the&nbsp;Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, we are supporting the infrastructure of the care economy in low- and middle-income countries."

"We have also redoubled our commitment to eliminating gender-based violence wherever it occurs, promoting accountability for conflict-related sexual violence, and expanding protection services for women and girls in humanitarian emergences." "Here in the United States, we&nbsp;have&nbsp;made landmark investments&nbsp;to give families&nbsp;more&nbsp;breathing room and support&nbsp;women’s&nbsp;participation in the&nbsp;labor force.&nbsp;This includes&nbsp;signing into law important workplace protections for pregnant and nursing workers in the United States.&nbsp;And last year, I was particularly proud to sign legislation strengthening&nbsp;and reauthorizing&nbsp;the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and increasing VAWA funding to $700 million, the highest funding level in history.&nbsp;This critical legislation will&nbsp;advance access to services, justice, and healing for survivors." "As we continue working to implement our first-ever National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality, we are&nbsp;focused&nbsp;on&nbsp;lifting&nbsp;up&nbsp;the rights of women and girls through every aspect of both our foreign and domestic policy."

"This is a defining feature of who we are as a nation and the values we hold dear&nbsp;as Americans. So&nbsp;let us&nbsp;continue to strive toward a future&nbsp;where women have an equal&nbsp;seat at the table, an equal&nbsp;voice in&nbsp;shaping decisions, and&nbsp;an&nbsp;equal&nbsp;opportunity to contribute fully to their nations. "&nbsp;

WASHINGTON—International Women's Day is March 8. A day set aside to honor and recognize the accomplishments of women while acknowledging there is still progress to be made toward gender equality.President Biden issued a statement recognizing the day."International Women’s Day&nbsp;honors a truth we live every day—that women and girls&nbsp;are essential to success and progress in every aspect of our society."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On International Women’s Day, we celebrate a group of incredible, courageous women and their extraordinary work pursuing justice, freedom, and peace around the world. <a href="https://t.co/ZnY17IF67H">pic.twitter.com/ZnY17IF67H</a>&mdash; Jill Biden (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1633611365666660352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"Promoting opportunities for women and girls strengthens security, stability, and prosperity for everyone.&nbsp;And we know&nbsp;that we cannot solve any of the great global challenges of our time if half the population is left behind.""So today, as we celebrate&nbsp;the accomplishments&nbsp;and contributions&nbsp;of women and girls around the world,&nbsp;we also&nbsp;reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all people&nbsp;can reach their full potential." "Despite decades of progress, in&nbsp;far&nbsp;too many places around&nbsp;the world, the rights of women and girls are&nbsp;still under&nbsp;attack, holding back entire communities." "We see it in Afghanistan, where the Taliban bars women and girls&nbsp;from&nbsp;attending&nbsp;school and&nbsp;pursuing&nbsp;employment. We see it in Iran, where the regime is brutally repressing the voices of women who are courageously standing up for their freedom. And in the face of&nbsp;Russia’s&nbsp;vicious and&nbsp;unjust invasion of Ukraine, including the use of rape as a weapon of war, we see countless stories of women&nbsp;bravely fighting for&nbsp;the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all&nbsp;Ukrainians." "The United States stands with women and girls around the world&nbsp;in the critical work of protecting and advancing&nbsp;human rights. My&nbsp;Administration&nbsp;is&nbsp;working with&nbsp;dedicated partners&nbsp;and local communities in every part of the world to expand&nbsp;economic security&nbsp;for women and girls, defend access to health care—including reproductive health care—safeguard women’s political participation and human rights, and promote the&nbsp;full participation of women and girls&nbsp;in all facets of society." "Through initiatives like the&nbsp;Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, we are supporting the infrastructure of the care economy in low- and middle-income countries.""We have also redoubled our commitment to eliminating gender-based violence wherever it occurs, promoting accountability for conflict-related sexual violence, and expanding protection services for women and girls in humanitarian emergences." "Here in the United States, we&nbsp;have&nbsp;made landmark investments&nbsp;to give families&nbsp;more&nbsp;breathing room and support&nbsp;women’s&nbsp;participation in the&nbsp;labor force.&nbsp;This includes&nbsp;signing into law important workplace protections for pregnant and nursing workers in the United States.&nbsp;And last year, I was particularly proud to sign legislation strengthening&nbsp;and reauthorizing&nbsp;the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and increasing VAWA funding to $700 million, the highest funding level in history.&nbsp;This critical legislation will&nbsp;advance access to services, justice, and healing for survivors." "As we continue working to implement our first-ever National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality, we are&nbsp;focused&nbsp;on&nbsp;lifting&nbsp;up&nbsp;the rights of women and girls through every aspect of both our foreign and domestic policy." "This is a defining feature of who we are as a nation and the values we hold dear&nbsp;as Americans. So&nbsp;let us&nbsp;continue to strive toward a future&nbsp;where women have an equal&nbsp;seat at the table, an equal&nbsp;voice in&nbsp;shaping decisions, and&nbsp;an&nbsp;equal&nbsp;opportunity to contribute fully to their nations. "&nbsp;