Government Relations

• Judge lets Stevens trial go on, considers mistrial
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A federal judge said Monday the corruption trial of Sen. Ted Stevens will go forward despite another request to throw out the case.
   
  
• AP Investigation: Ike environmental toll apparent
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Hurricane Ike's winds and massive waves destroyed oil platforms, tossed storage tanks and punctured pipelines. The environmental damage only now is becoming apparent: At least a half million gallons of crude oil spilled into the Gulf of Mexic
   
  
• Connecticut towns grapple with new Web law
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Harwinton residents hoping to learn about recycling policies and library hours online are out of luck.
   
  
• Europe governments strive to avoid bank meltdown
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  LONDON (AP) - European governments struggled to find a coordinated response to the crisis sweeping financial markets Monday, as countries one after the other announced sweeping deposit guarantees on their own to try and shore up their banks. Stock markets plunged.
   
  
• Despite costs, healthy school lunches on the menu
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - The buffet offers a variety of pizzas, with whole wheat crust, organic toppings and hormone-free cheese. The salad bar includes some greens and vegetables grown without pesticides in a nearby garden.
   
  
• Fed will provide as much as $900 in loans to banks
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Federal Reserve will provide as much as $900 billion in cash loans to squeezed banks in an urgent effort Monday to break through a dangerous credit clog that threatens the economy and has unhinged financial markets around the globe.
   
  
• US defense chief meets NATO amid Russia tension
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. and NATO allies will embrace fledgling Eastern European nations during international meetings this week, in a what will be seen as a sharp message to Russia that further aggression in the region will not be tolerated.
   
  
• Credit still tight as Europe scrambles, Fed boosts
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - The jammed credit markets barely budged Monday as European governments scrambled to prop up their failing banks and investors waited for details on how, exactly, the Treasury will go about buying $700 billion of U.S. banks' mortgage assets.
   
  
• SKorea wants financial summit with China, Japan
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - South Korea's ruling party says President Lee Myung-bak will propose a summit with China and Japan to discuss how to cope with the current global economic crises.
   
  
• Germany considers national financial "shield"
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  BERLIN (AP) - Germany's finance minister said Monday he is considering creating a "shield" that would protect the country's entire financial sector, arguing it would not be possible to continue to address troubled financial institutions on a case by case basis.
   
  
• Jury hears audio of Stevens fretting about inquiry
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Sen. Ted Stevens and wealthy businessman Bill Allen had several phone conversations in 2006 in which they fretted over being the target of an FBI investigation, according to audiotapes played Monday at the senator's corruption trial.
   
  
• Official: Kashkari to be tapped to head bailout
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - An official says the administration has decided to pick a key Treasury Department official to be the interim head of its $700 billion rescue effort for financial institutions.
   
  
• Treasury and Fed pledge rapid response to crisis
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The president's top economic advisers are pledging to work with their counterparts around the world to restore confidence and stability to financial markets roiled by tight credit and worries about a global economic slowdown .
   
  
• German gov't, banks agree to $69B bailout for Hypo
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  BERLIN (AP) - Germany on Sunday guaranteed all private bank accounts and negotiated a 50 billion euro ($69 billion) bailout deal for Hypo Real Estate AG as Europe's second largest economy sought to ward off financial crisis.
   
  
• Credit still tight as Europe governments scramble
  AP (October 06, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - The jammed credit markets barely budged Monday as European governments scrambled to prop up their failing banks and investors waited for details on how, exactly, the Treasury will go about buying $700 billion of U.S. banks' mortgage assets.
   
  
• Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation
  PRNewswire (October 04, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a transcript of the Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation:
   
  
• Lawmakers make a final push for mental health bill
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Talk about going out with a win.
   
  
• Banks Overly Reliant on 'Hot Money' Deposits
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  FDIC Coverage Increase to $250,000 May Not Stop Bank Runs and Could Cause Other Collateral Damage
   
  
• Progressive Leaders Push for Main Street Help
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  Borosage: 'Bad bill for Wall St. is no substitute for help needed for Main St.'
   
  
• RNC Chairman Duncan Responds to Financial Rescue Plan
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  
   
  
• Mental Health America Hails Approval of Federal Parity Legislation
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  
   
  
• Blunt Statement on Passage of Economic Rescue Package
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- House Republican Whip Roy Blunt (Mo.) issued the following statement this afternoon subsequent to House passage of the economic rescue package, legislation aimed at stabilizing our financial markets and ensuring the availability of credit remains intact for American consumers, homeowners, and small business owners:
   
  
• AARP: House Vote Brings Economic Relief One-Step Closer to Americans
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AARP Chief Operating Officer Tom Nelson issued the following statement following passage of the economic rescue package in the House of Representatives.
   
  
• Pelosi Statement on Mental Health Parity Legislation Being Signed into Law
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  
   
  
• Teetering bank is bought by Dutch government
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  AMSTERDAM, Netherlands (AP) - The Dutch government said Friday it will buy all operations of Fortis NV in the Netherlands for 16.8 billion euros ($23.2 billion) as the troubled bank teetered on the edge of insolvency.
   
  
• US: NKorea still moving to restart reactor
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The State Department says a U.S. diplomat's trip to North Korea has not stopped the North from moving to restore its disabled nuclear reactor.
   
  
• Statement by Real Estate Roundtable President and CEO Jeffrey DeBoer Applauding Today's House Passage of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  
   
  
• Pelosi Statement on Passage of Bipartisan Economic Rescue Legislation
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Democratic leaders, and Chairman Barney Frank of the House Financial Services Committee held a news conference this afternoon following the passage of the bipartisan Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, which passed by a vote of 263 to 171.
   
  
• Justice Department to Monitor Primary Elections in Louisiana
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  
   
  
• Column: Bailout won't cure economic stress
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - Once the government decides it will spend $700 billion to get the economy started again, don't expect immediate results.
   
  
• Democrats question independence of prosecutor
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Democratic lawmakers on Friday questioned the independence a veteran federal prosecutor named to investigate whether laws were broken in the partisan political firings of U.S. attorneys.
   
  
• Regulating Markets: The Private Abuse of the Public Interest
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is being issued by the National Academy of Social Insurance:
   
  
• FDA: Tiny bit of melamine OK in most food
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Eating a tiny bit of a melamine, the chemical responsible for a global food safety scare, is not harmful - except when it's in baby formula, U.S. food safety officials said Friday.
   
  
• Congress clears hotly contested bailout bill
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Congress has passed complex and highly criticized legislation authorizing $700 billion in government money to shore up the nation's stressed financial industry.
   
  
• Russia: Will work with US, EU to stop pirates
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) - Six U.S. warships circled a hijacked ship off Somalia and a Russian frigate headed toward the standoff Friday, while Russia called for naval forces gathering in the area to coordinate their efforts against piracy.
   
  
• NIH's National Children's Study Enters Next Phase
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  Increase in Number of Centers Recruiting Volunteers, Collecting Data
   
  
• COPS Office Awards $9.9 Million in Grants to Locate, Arrest and Prosecute Sexual Predators
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Nearly $10 million in grants are being awarded to support partnerships between state or local government agencies and their district U.S. Attorney's Office that focus on reducing child endangerment, the Justice Department's Office of Community Oriented Policing (COPS) announced today. The funds were awarded to 23 state and local agencies under the Chi
   
  
• Kenya, US fight over travel ban for officials
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) - A diplomatic dispute was brewing Friday between America and Kenya over a potential visa ban for Kenyan officials who oversaw last year's catastrophic elections.
   
  
• Statement of U.S. Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao on September employment numbers
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao issued the following statement on the September employment situation report released today:
   
  
• Hoffa Urges Congress to Pass Stimulus That Helps Unemployed, Adds Jobs
  PRNewswire (October 03, 2008)
  
   
  
• Credit markets still tight after bailout approval
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - The stranglehold on the credit markets remained tight Friday after the House approved a revised $700 billion financial bailout, with investors still dubious about the plan's ability to boost the faltering U.S. economy.
   
  
• Tax breaks big and small sweeten financial bailout
  AP (October 03, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Millions of taxpayers, thousands of businesses and groups as diverse as solar power developers and natural disaster victims will see tax relief with the House vote Friday to approve and send to the president a $700 billion financial rescue plan.
   
  
• House girds for 2nd try on financial rescue
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - House members are getting another chance to vote on a financial bailout bill that has infuriated millions of voters after the Senate added tax cuts and other sweeteners and passed it handily.
   
  
• November Ballot Referendum 1: Funding for Highways, Bridges, Mass Transit
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  WARWICK, R.I., Oct. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rhode Island ballot Referendum 1 this November will give voters the opportunity to approve $87.2 million in state transportation bonds. In combination with $436 million in federal matching funds over two years, the bonds will provide $523 million for necessary construction and repair of highways and bridges, and will also fund mass transit. Th
   
  
• SMART Office Announces Nearly $4.3 Million in Grants to Enhance Sex Offender Registry and Notification Programs
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  Grants are announced as the Department launches National Crime Prevention Month and Celebrate Safe Communities Initiative
   
  
• Iran hints at nuclear rethink if gets guarantees
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) - A leading Iranian nuclear envoy on Thursday suggested the country could reconsider its uranium enrichment program if it gets cast-iron guarantees of regular international fuel supplies for its nuclear power plants.
   
  
• Bailout Bill Language Could Prompt Billions in Abuse
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  Bailout Bill Language Could Promote Abuses
   
  
• Service Employees Union Blasts Rendell Hiring Freeze
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  Local 668 says freeze will hurt the citizens of Pennsylvania
   
  
• Credit tightens as rescue bill heads back to House
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - The Senate's endorsement of the $700 billion financial bailout plan couldn't relax the credit market Thursday, as investors waited for the revised bill to go back to the House.
   
  
• Former La. judge gets 10 years for corruption
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  SHREVEPORT, La. (AP) - A former Louisiana judge has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption.
   
  
• Congress Approves Rail Safety Bill: ACC Urges White House To Sign It Into Law
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today Congress passed legislation (H.R. 2095) that combines important rail safety provisions with the reauthorization of Amtrak. The legislation now awaits President Bush's signature.
   
  
• Statement by AIA President and CEO Marion Blakey on the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a statement by AIA President and CEO Marion Blakey:
   
  
• India latest to ban smoking in public places
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  NEW DELHI (AP) - India banned smoking in public places on Thursday, leaving public health officials with a much tougher task: get the nation's estimated 120 million smokers to stub out their cigarettes.
   
  
• France to host EU summit on money crisis
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  PARIS (AP) - France will host a European financial summit Saturday in Paris, bringing together leaders of four countries to deal with the international financial crisis.
   
  
• 1 PM Press Call on Bailout with Reps. Chabot and Kilpatrick
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Tomorrow, Thursday, October 2 at 1 PM Eastern, Ohio Rep. Steve Chabot and Michigan Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick will join Wade Henderson of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights and Mike Calhoun of the Center for Responsible Lending to discuss the reason why so many members of Congress have pushed to include the bankruptcy provisions and what
   
  
• Bruce Schneier to Speak at National Press Club Panel to Discuss Privacy and the Presidential Election
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Noted author and computer security expert Bruce Schneier will speak at the National Press Club in Washington, DC on Monday, October 6. Schneier is a popular commentator on security issues and the author of many books, including "Beyond Fear: Thinking Sensibly about Security in an Uncertain World." Schneier will be joined by other leading expe
   
  
• FDA urged to recall cold medicines for youngsters
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - With a new cold season coming, the government is trying once more to decide what to do about over-the-counter medicines for kids' coughs and sniffles. Doctors question the drugs' benefits and worry about their risks.
   
  
• Bush: Lawmakers 'must listen' vote yes
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush and congressional backers of a $700 billion financial industry bailout carried out high-intensity lobbying Thursday, on the eve of a crucial House vote that Bush said "a lot of people are watching."
   
  
• Statement by Robert Greenstein, Executive Director, and Chad Stone, Chief Economist, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, on the Senate-Passed Financial Rescue Legislation
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a statement by Robert Greenstein, Executive Director, and Chad Stone, Chief Economist, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, on the Senate-passed financial rescue legislation:
   
  
• DHS Personnel System Derailed, Thanks to AFGE Push to Cut Funding
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  Agency nixes misguided MaxHR plan
   
  
• Despite crisis, ECB should hold steady
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) - The European Central Bank met Thursday amid calls for an interest rate cut in the face of the growing financial crisis, but analysts said the bank likely would hold its benchmark interest rate steady as inflation outweighs worries about the meltdown.
   
  
• India: US atomic pact sign 'world needs India'
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  NEW DELHI (AP) - India said Thursday that U.S. congressional approval of a civilian nuclear pact was a sign that "the world needs India as India needs the world." Pakistan immediately demanded a similar deal.
   
  
• Bad Buzz: Proposal 1 Puts Kids, Communities at Risk
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  LANSING, Mich, Oct. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Warning of wide open loopholes and errors in a proposal that will lead to unintended and dangerous consequences for Michigan and its kids, a broad-based coalition of medical professionals, law enforcement officials, parents and taxpayer groups joined forces today to urge voters to vote "NO" on Proposal 1.
   
  
• WE tv's WE Vote '08 Says This Election is Ladies Choice - Women Decide the Fate of the 2008 Election as Voter Registration Deadlines Approach Beginning October 4
  PRNewswire (October 02, 2008)
  Over 35 Million Women Did Not Vote In The Last Election
   
  
• AP Poll: 8 in 10 fear hit from financial crisis
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Not just Wall Street is running scared.
   
  
• Judge considers mistrial in Stevens case
  AP (October 02, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A federal judge angrily halted the corruption trial of Sen. Ted Stevens on Thursday after the Alaska lawmaker's attorney accused prosecutors of withholding evidence that would help their case.
   
  
• Congress passes bill to help save Internet radio
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Congress has cleared the way for a potential agreement intended to save the emerging Internet radio market from a crippling hike in copyright royalty rates.
   
  
• Congress leaders optimistic on revived bailout
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Congressional leaders said that adding tax breaks and increasing federal deposit insurance should improve chances a $700 billion financial rescue plan will pass the Senate Wednesday night, a message they hoped wouldn't get lost on a convulsive Wall Street.
   
  
• NO on the Bail-Out; 'ELECTION 2008: Lipstick on the Pig' Free Online Book Explains Why
  PRNewswire (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Earth Intelligence Network, a 501(c)3 charity dedicated to providing public intelligence, today has released ELECTION 2008: Lipstick on the Pig. This full-color 145-page book, free online, denounces the proposed bail-out as both unconstitutional and fraudulent, while noting that electoral fraud and the disenfranchisement of half of our voters -- and the two d
   
  
• Statement by NAPCS President and CEO Nelson Smith on the Education Continuing Resolution
  PRNewswire (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- National Alliance for Public Charter Schools President and CEO Nelson Smith made the following statement on the President's signing today of H.R. 2638, the FY 2009 Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act.
   
  
• A dozen more Chinese dairy companies accused
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  BEIJING (AP) - Fifteen more Chinese dairy companies were identified Wednesday as producing milk products contaminated with an industrial chemical, further broadening a scandal affecting products ranging from baby formula to chocolate, authorities said.
   
  
• EU fines 9 companies over wax cartel
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) - The European Union on Wednesday imposed one of its highest ever cartel fines on a "paraffin mafia" accused of fixing prices and markets for everyday household products like chewing gum, tires and candles.
   
  
• Senator's thank-you notes seen at corruption trial
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal prosecutors on Wednesday showed jurors thank-you notes that they say prove Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens knew he was getting free home renovations from his friend, an Alaska oil pipeline contractor.
   
  
• Top court will review who pays for Superfund site
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Supreme Court has agreed to decide what share railroads and an oil company should bear of the cleanup of a contaminated industrial site in Arvin, Calif., near Bakersfield, that threatened drinking water supplies.
   
  
• Credit markets tight as Senate vote looms
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  (AP) - NEW YORK - The credit markets remained choked Wednesday ahead of the highly anticipated Senate vote on the government's financial rescue plan, keeping key lending rates and demand for Treasurys at lofty levels.
   
  
• Senate debates US-India nuclear deal
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. senators began debate Wednesday on a U.S.-India nuclear cooperation accord, nearing a vote that would be the last hurdle to establishing civilian nuclear trade with India after a three-decade atomic ban.
   
  
• Federal judge bars Fla. law on Cuba travel bond
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  MIAMI (AP) - A judge says a new Florida law requiring travel agents who book trips to Cuba to post a $250,000 state bond cannot be enforced, for now.
   
  
• Congress targets rogue online pharmacies
  AP (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Congress has passed a bill intended to crack down on rogue online pharmacies that sell drugs without a valid prescription.
   
  
• It Is Official: $20 Million for New Lung Cancer Research Now Law
  PRNewswire (October 01, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Tonight, the President signed into law funding for fiscal year 2009. Included in this omnibus measure is money to fund the Department of Defense and a new $20 million Lung Cancer Research Program.
   
  
• Feds to investigate post-Katrina bridge shootings
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  NEW ORLEANS (AP) - The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney's office in New Orleans will investigate the fatal shootings that occurred on a city bridge following Hurricane Katrina.
   
  
• Banks in miser mode send borrowing rates soaring
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - Bank-to-bank lending rates jumped Tuesday and Treasury bill demand eased only slightly, a day after Congress' rejection of the bank bailout plan cast an even deeper freeze over the barely operational credit markets.
   
  
• Candidates seek higher deposit insurance
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama urged Congress Tuesday to redouble efforts to save a financial system bailout and both said that a key part of the legislation should be increasing federal deposit insurance from $100,000 to $250,000.
   
  
• Cardinal Rigali Urges Respect For Human Life, Opposition to 'Freedom of Choice' Act
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In a statement to mark Respect Life Sunday, October 5, Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia urged Catholics "to help build a culture in which every human life without exception is respected and defended."
   
  
• RCGA Endorses Proposition A on November 4th Missouri Ballot
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  ST. LOUIS, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- The St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association (RCGA) has endorsed Proposition A, the Schools First Initiative, noting it will generate more than $100 million per year in new revenue for Missouri schools, protect more than 12,000 local jobs and benefit the regional and state economies.
   
  
• Data Shows Unstable TVs, Furniture and Appliances Pose Deadly Danger to Children
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  
   
  
• Prosecutors deny misconduct in Stevens trial
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - With the star witness against Sen. Ted Stevens due to testify Tuesday, prosecutors denied allegations they secretly shuttled another key witness back to Alaska so he wouldn't hurt their corruption case against the lawmaker.
   
  
• CPSC Reminds Parents of Drowning Dangers Inside the Home; Nearly 100 Reported Deaths of Children in Buckets
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  
   
  
• Air Force push for more F-22s is a hard sell
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AP) - The next president, John McCain or Barack Obama, is expected to be a penny-pinching commander in chief when it comes to buying new military weapons. And that's bad news for the Air Force's push to buy scores more F-22 Raptors, a supersonic jet fighter built to dom
   
  
• Dexia bank gets multi-nation $9.2B bailout
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) - Dexia became the second Belgian bank this week to get a government and shareholder bailout Tuesday when Belgium, France and Luxembourg said they would inject almost $9.2 billion to keep it afloat.
   
  
• $700 billion, pondering the possibilities
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Brother, can you spare a billion? More like $700 billion, to be precise.
   
  
• Richard Viguerie: House Republican Leaders Falsely Attacked Their Own Members, Hurt Their Party's Chances in November, and Should Resign
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  
   
  
• Bush implores Congress to act to rescue markets
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush said Tuesday the economic damage to the nation will be "painful and lasting" if Congress fails to pass a $700 billion bailout bill.
   
  
• Senator expresses confidence in US-India pact
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Senate's top Democrat expressed confidence Tuesday that senators could vote on a U.S.-India nuclear cooperation accord as early as Wednesday, improving chances of passage for the landmark pact as lawmakers rush to finish work for the year.
   
  
• Lipton-brand milk tea powder recalled in Asia
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  HONG KONG (AP) - Anglo-Dutch food giant Unilever is recalling its Lipton-brand milk tea powder in Hong Kong and Macau after they were found to contain traces of a banned industrial chemical, the company said Tuesday.
   
  
• AHAM Urges Congress To Approve Financial Rescue Bill Quickly
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) today called on Congress and the President to quickly enact a financial rescue plan. AHAM president Joseph M. McGuire offered the following statement: "The appliance industry represents America's economy at its core. We produce consumer products that are essential to everyday life, we empl
   
  
• Failed Bailout Needs Leadership 'Dream Team'
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  
   
  
• Fingerpointing continues on bailout failure
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Members of Congress traded more recriminations Tuesday over the stunning House vote that killed a $700 billion financial system, while insisting there's still time to get an acceptable deal.
   
  
• USW Outraged Schwarzenegger Vetoes Limit on 'Likely Carcinogen' in Food Packaging
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  PITTSBURGH, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The United Steelworkers (USW) today condemned Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger for his failure to protect California citizens from PFOA, the Teflon chemical often found in food packaging, cookware, carpeting and countless other household and industrial uses.
   
  
• New SEIU Television Ad: Thelma Drake is 'Wrong for Veterans, Wrong For Virginia'
  PRNewswire (September 30, 2008)
  TV Ad Details Multiple Votes Against Quality Health Care for Veterans
   
  
• Army awards SAIC 2 orders worth up to $160M
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  SAN DIEGO (AP) - Defense contractor Science Applications International Corp. said on Tuesday it won two task orders by the Army's Aviation and Missile Command to provide modeling and simulation support.
   
  
• Judge rules against bird waste injunction in Okla.
  AP (September 30, 2008)
  TULSA, Okla. (AP) - A federal judge has denied Oklahoma's request for a preliminary injunction to stop 13 Arkansas poultry companies from disposing of bird waste in the Illinois River watershed.
   
  
• House Republican Leaders Following Vote on Economic Stabilization Package
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a transcript of House Republican Leaders Following Vote on Economic Stabilization Package:
   
  
• Prosecutor named to probe ouster of US attorneys
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Attorney General Michael Mukasey appointed a prosecutor Monday to pursue possible criminal charges against Republicans who were involved in the controversial firings of U.S. attorneys.
   
  
• Ecuador has new constitution; Opposition worried
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  QUITO, Ecuador (AP) - Ecuador's leftist President Rafael Correa urged his opponents Monday to join his efforts to build a more just society, saying the overwhelming victory of his constitutional referendum gives him a broad mandate.
   
  
• Pelosi: The Legislation Has Failed But the Crisis Has Not Gone Away; We Must Work in a Bipartisan Way to Pass New Legislation
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Chairman Barney Frank of the House Financial Services Committee, and House Democratic leaders held a news conference this afternoon following the defeat of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. Below are her opening remarks:
   
  
• Cephalon to pay $425M for improper drug marketing
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Drug maker Cephalon on Monday completed a previously announced $425 million civil settlement with federal authorities over off-label drug marketing.
   
  
• State Legislatures Continue Efforts to Protect Women from Negative Effects of Abortion, AUL Report Reveals
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  
   
  
• Investors give $700B rescue plan cool reception
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - Wall Street gave Washington's $700 billion rescue plan for banks, brokerages, credit unions, thrifts and insurance companies a mediocre grade on Monday.
   
  
• Office on Violence Against Women Awards $114 Million to Support Comprehensive Crime Prevention
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  
   
  
• Congress sends mercury export ban to president
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The House on Monday sent to President Bush a bill sponsored by Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama that would eventually ban the export of elemental mercury.
   
  
• House to vote on $700 billion market bailout
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - With the House slated to vote Monday on a deeply unpopular $700 billion rescue plan for beleaguered financial companies, President Bush and congressional leaders were scrambling to corral support.
   
  
• Governor's Signing of Green Chemistry Legislation Applauded by Science Advisory Panel Member
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  Law called "strong foundation for advancing a sound, comprehensive chemicals policy"
   
  
• Gun groups to appeal decision to toss Ga. lawsuit
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  ATLANTA (AP) - Gun rights groups are appealing a federal judge's decision to dismiss a lawsuit that sought to allow licensed gun owners to pack heat in parts of the world's busiest airport.
   
  
• Financial bailout bill survives procedural vote
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Hotly contested legislation to bail out the reeling financial industry has survived a key test vote on the House floor.
   
  
• No grand jury likely for Gonzales
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A report on a Justice Department investigation into the controversial firings of U.S. attorneys is harshly critical of the politically charged dismissals but does not recommend referring the role of former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales to a grand jury for possible criminal charges, according to published reports.
   
  
• Stand Up for Main Street, SEIU Tells Senators
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  Leading Labor Union To Make 150,000 Calls This Week Urging Senate Action on Economic Stimulus
   
  
• Consumer spending weakens as stimulus fades
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Consumer spending in August turned in the weakest performance in six months, underscoring the threat the economy faces as the government's stimulus program fades into the past.
   
  
• Bush confident bailout bill will stabilize economy
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Buffeted by unusually aggressive pressure from the White House, House members debated hotly-contested Wall Street bailout legislation Monday as a key architect conceded its unpopularity.
   
  
• Rail safety bill advances in Senate
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A sweeping rail safety reform bill that also includes billions for Amtrak has cleared a key vote in the Senate.
   
  
• NAR Statement on Defeat of Economic Stability Act
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors(R) President Richard F. Gaylord:
   
  
• NYC sues reservation smoke shops over bootlegging
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - New York City is suing eight smoke shops that have been selling tax-free cigarettes on an Indian reservation.
   
  
• Tough week for Rice at UN
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice made the best Monday of U.S. failure to win new U.N. punishments against Iran, a disappointment to the Bush administration that marked the nadir of a grueling week at the United Nations, where U.S. prestige and influence took a beating at the hands of Russia, Iran and North Korea.
   
  
• Congress moves to adjourn with no deal on AMT
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The House prepared to adjourn for the year Monday with no deal on a major tax relief package, increasing the odds that businesses will lose out on critical tax breaks and millions could get hit by the alternative minimum tax this year.
   
  
• NoCashforTrash.org Coalition Helps Defeat Wall Street Bailout
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  $700 billion "Stabilization Act" Defeated 228-205
   
  
• Judge slams government tactics in Stevens case
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A federal judge angrily rebuked the Justice Department on Monday for mishandling a witness against Sen. Ted Stevens, a dispute that delayed and initially threatened to derail the case against the Alaska senator.
   
  
• Fannie, Freddie disclose subpoenas, investigations
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A federal grand jury is investigating accounting and disclosure issues at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the mortgage finance companies said Monday.
   
  
• Fed makes billions available to battle crisis
  AP (September 29, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Federal Reserve and foreign central banks agreed to pump billions of dollars into the global financial system Monday to unlock tight lending that threatens to unhinge the U.S. economy.
   
  
• AARP on Financial Rescue Debate: Economic Pressure Will Crush Main Street Unless Congress Acts Now
  PRNewswire (September 29, 2008)
  "This is not about saving another Wall Street investment bank -- it's about protecting the financial security of millions of people whose nest eggs are at risk if Washington does nothing."
   
  
• Congress Sets New Course for Lung Cancer Research; Approves $20 Million for New Defense Department Program
  PRNewswire (September 27, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Lung Cancer Alliance (LCA) announced today that Congress approved $20 million for a new lung cancer research program at the Department of Defense (DOD) -- a top LCA priority.
   
  
• CAIR: 'Obsession' Interviewee Calls Film 'Vile Piece of Propaganda'
  PRNewswire (September 27, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today said that a participant in an anti-Muslim film that is being distributed to 28 million homes in presidential election swing states has issued a statement calling the production a "vile piece of propaganda."
   
  
• The Following Statement May Be Attributed to Douglas Pringle, President of the California Charity Alliance:
  PRNewswire (September 26, 2008)
  SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 26 /PRNewswire/ --
   
  
• Wall Street trips and states take the fall
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - The crisis in the financial system will almost surely blow gaping holes in the already tattered budgets of New York, Connecticut, New Jersey and other states that rely heavily on tax revenue from investment banks and the big salaries and million-dollar bonuses doled out to Wall Street professionals.
   
  
• Winder, Georgia Public Housing Authority Settles Race Discrimination Housing Complaint With Justice Department
  PRNewswire (September 26, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Justice Department today announced a settlement that, pending court approval, will require the Housing Authority for the City of Winder, Ga., (WHA), to pay up to $490,000 to resolve allegations that it engaged in a pattern or practice of discriminating against African-American tenants and housing applicants.
   
  
• Calif. warns people not to flush pharmaceuticals
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  LOS ANGELES (AP) - The state of California has a warning for its 36 million residents: Do not flush pharmaceuticals down the toilet or drain, or they may end up in a river near you.
   
  
• FDA reviews experimental use of anemia drugs
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal health regulators said Friday they are reviewing an experimental use of blockbuster anemia drugs made by Amgen and Johnson & Johnson that has been associated with higher death rates in a study involving stroke patients.
   
  
• Change to Win Leaders to Demand Worker Protection Plan on News Conference Call Today at 2:00 P.M. ET
  PRNewswire (September 26, 2008)
  
   
  
• Prospects for nuclear deal uncertain in Congress
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A landmark agreement on civilian nuclear cooperation between India and the U.S. has been a high priority for President Bush and the Indian government, but time is running out as lawmakers wrap up this year's session to campaign for the November elections.
   
  
• Bush wants to expand marine protections in Pacific
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush wants to extend environmental protections to more of the Pacific Ocean.
   
  
• Contractor says immune from Iraq torture lawsuits
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) - Defense contractor CACI (KA'-kee) is claiming immunity from lawsuits alleging torture at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq, saying it was doing the U.S. government's work as a supplier of interrogators.
   
  
• National Patient Advocate Foundation Commends U.S. Senate's Unanimous Passage of Michelle's Law
  PRNewswire (September 26, 2008)
  Federal Legislation Will Extend Existing Health Insurance Coverage for Dependent College Students in the Event of a Medically Necessary Leave of Absence
   
  
• Pelosi Statement on House Passage of Legislation Extending Tax Credits for Renewable Energy
  PRNewswire (September 26, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the Renewable Energy and Job Creation Tax Act of 2008, which will extend and expand tax incentives for renewable energy and passed the House today by a vote of 257 to 166:
   
  
• Congress restarts troubled bailout talks
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush told Congress Friday it must "rise to the occas
   
  
• IAEA Chief: Iran 'on path' to atomic weapon
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  BERLIN (AP) - The head of the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog warned in comments published Friday that Iran is one of several countries on the "path" to possessing the ingredients for making a nuclear weapon.
   
  
• Pelosi Remarks After White House Meeting on Crisis in Financial Markets
  PRNewswire (September 26, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 25 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Democratic leaders, and Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Frank held a news conference in the Capitol tonight to discuss the continuing negotiations with the Administration on legislation to address the financial markets crisis. Below are her remarks:
   
  
• A2LA Announces Accreditation of Testing Laboratories to Meet the Requirements of H.R.4040, 'Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008'
  PRNewswire (September 26, 2008)
  FREDERICK, Md., Sept. 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) is proud to announce the addition of the requirements of the newly enacted Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) to its already broad range of accreditation activities. A2LA is currently accepting new applications for accreditation of laboratories who intend to test t
   
  
• Cabin remodel detailed at Stevens corruption trial
  AP (September 26, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Employees of an oil services firm testified Friday that they spent hundreds of hours remodeling the Alaska cabin of Sen. Ted Stevens - labor that prosecutors say wasn't paid for or reported by the veteran lawmaker.
   
  
• China recalls expand; EU mulls banning baby food
  AP (September 25, 2008)
  BEIJING (AP) - Food recalls expanded in Europe and Asia on Thursday as an industrial chemical linked to the deaths of four babies turned up in candies and other Chinese-made products that were quickly pulled from store shelves in China and abroad.
   
  
• Senators Cochran (R-MS), Boxer (D-CA), Brownback (R-KS) and Vitter (R-LA) Add Their Support to Lung Cancer Mortality Reduction Act
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  
   
  
• A Statement on Credit Unions in Texas from Dick Ensweiler, President and CEO, Texas Credit Union League
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  DALLAS, Sept. 25 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In response to the President's statement last night, Texas Credit Unions clarify that they remain well-capitalized and fully insured. What follows is a statement by Dick Ensweiler, President and CEO, Texas Credit Union League:
   
  
• ADA Watch and the National Coalition for Disability Rights Praise Advocates and Policymakers as President Bush Signs ADA Amendments Act into Law
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  
   
  
• Main Street Recovery Program
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  
   
  
• Proposed $700 Billion Bailout Is Too Little, Too Late to EndDebt Crisis; Too Much, Too Soon for U.S. Bond Markets
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  Urgent Audio News Briefing Tomorrow: Why The Bailout Will Fail
   
  
• Deal said to be near on big financial bailout plan
  AP (September 25, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush is bringing presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain into negotiations on a $700 billion rescue of Wall Street as Democrats and Republicans near agreement on a bailout plan with more protections for taxpayers and new help for di
   
  
• U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce Study Finds Billions in Federal Contracts May Be Falsely Attributed to Spending With Women-Owned Firms
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  FY 2006 and FY 2007 Bush Administration Contracting Reports Grossly Overstate Spending With Women-Owned Firms; Billions of Dollars Going to Dozens of 'Women-Owned' Firms May Actually Have Male CEOs
   
  
• OBSNews.com Announces Media Partnership With United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC)
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- OBSNews.com -- Thousands of Hispanic business leaders from New York to Hawaii are gathering in California's capitol city to promote national and worldwide business opportunities for Latinos and Latinas in small, medium, and enterprise level businesses.
   
  
• ATA Urges Congress and Administration to Stabilize Financial System
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 25 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Our nation needs speedy action to ease the current financial crisis, and the American Trucking Associations (ATA) today urged Congress to quickly review the Treasury Department's proposal and work with the Administration to approve a comprehensive plan to stabilize the U.S. financial system.
   
  
• Lawmakers: Financial bailout agreement reached
  AP (September 25, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Warned of a possible financial panic, key Republicans and Democrats reported agreement in principle Thursday on a $700 billion bailout of the financial industry and said they would present it to the Bush administration in hopes of a vote with
   
  
• Error-prone Detroit police crime lab shut down
  AP (September 25, 2008)
  DETROIT (AP) - Officials have shut down the Detroit police crime lab because of errors found in evidence from shooting cases.
   
  
• Governor Vetoes Mortgage Reform Bill
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  Puts brokers ahead of public in the midst of economic crisis
   
  
• Timing lousy for emergency communications plan
  AP (September 25, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A government plan to build a nationwide emergency communications network using private money and public airwaves flopped earlier this year when investors stayed away in droves.
   
  
• FCC revives emergency communications plan
  AP (September 25, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Federal Communications Commission approved a new framework for the creation of a nationwide emergency communications network Thursday amid concerns that the ongoing economic crisis may make it difficult to attract investors.
   
  
• Sec. of State Rice Reiterates US Position That Autonomy for Western Sahara Is the 'Obvious' Solution
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  
   
  
• Credit Unions Have Federal Savings Insurance
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  President Bush fails to mention; coverage similar to FDIC for banks (to at least $100,000)
   
  
• Alcopops 'Freebie' Legislation Needs Governor's Veto
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  Bill Increases Marketing 1200% to Youth, Girls
   
  
• GAO: Risk of runway collision still high
  AP (September 25, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The rate of close calls on airport runways is up over last year and the risk of a collision is high, a government investigator said Thursday.
   
  
• First flight of EADS' A400M transporter postponed
  AP (September 25, 2008)
  PARIS (AP) - EADS, the parent company of planemaker Airbus, said Thursday it has indefinitely postponed the first flight of its A400M military transport plane because its engines are not ready.
   
  
• U.S. House of Representatives Passes 'Travel Promotion Act of 2008'
  PRNewswire (September 25, 2008)
  
   
  
• Pelosi Remarks at 2009 Presidential Inaugural First Nail Ceremony
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi joined members of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies on the West Front Terrace of the U.S. Capitol this morning to drive in the first nails for the January 20th presidential inaugural platform. Below are her remarks:
   
  
• White House disappointed with NKorea move
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - The Bush administration warned Wednesday that North Korea would isolate itself from the world community if it backtracks and reactivates the plant that once provided plutonium for an atomic test explosion.
   
  
• Jury picked in Stevens case; Openings set Thursday
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Sen. Ted Stevens' jury has been chosen in his corruption trial.
   
  
• Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich Featured Wednesday
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Healthcare policy, regulatory environment, elements of the global marketplace, and the role of financing are focus of the 2008 MedTech Conference.
   
  
• Statement by President of Black Real Estate Professionals on the $700 Billion Bailout
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaking on behalf of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), the country's oldest minority trade association, President Maria Kong, issued this statement in light of the anticipated legislation authorizing Secretary Paulson to restore confidence in the nation's financial system by spending a reported $700 billion to shore up Wal
   
  
• Ask Yourself Why Congress Didn't See the Financial Crisis Coming
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  Lending industry's $31 million in contributions and lobbying in just last year helped keep Congress away during financial crisis
   
  
• Statement of Acting Assistant Attorney General Grace Chung Becker Regarding The Decision Not To Utilize Criminal Prosecutors As Monitors In Polling Places On Election Day
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  
   
  
• Regulator says hospitals need strict heparin rules
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  CHICAGO (AP) - A regulatory group told hospitals Wednesday to adopt strict measures to prevent errors involving blood thinners including heparin - mistakes that have been made nearly 60,000 times and led to dozens of deaths in recent years.
   
  
• Government Bailout Must Put Americans First
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  
   
  
• Major Progressive and Labor Leaders Demand Conditions For Drastic Financial Bailout
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  Statement Tells Congress, "Don't Write President Bush a $700B Blank Check," Hundreds of Events to Be Held on Thursday Calling For Conditions
   
  
• Blunt Statement on McCain Decision to Return to Washington to Confront Economic Crisis
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- House Republican Whip Roy Blunt (Mo.) released the following statement today after Senator John McCain announced he will come back to Washington to work with the current Administration and Congress to pass economic stability legislation:
   
  
• States, medical groups oppose abortion rule
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Several medical associations and 13 state attorneys general voiced their opposition Wednesday to a proposed federal rule that they fear would open the door for hospitals and physicians to deny access to contraception.
   
  
• Red Letter Day for Americans With Disabilities: ADA Amendments Act Signing and Start of One More Way National Tour
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa., Sept. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Starting in Columbus, Ohio, on September 25th -- the same day President Bush is slated to sign the much anticipated ADA Amendments Act of 2008 into law -- persons with disabilities, their service providers and potential employers will learn first-hand about an innovative, national employment collaborative dedicated to persons with disabilities.
   
  
• House Caves to Big Oil; Plans to Allow Offshore Drilling Moratorium to Expire
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, Congress caved to Big Oil and the Bush administration by refusing to include even limited safeguards against the damages of offshore drilling in the House continuing resolution that will fund the government past September 30th.
   
  
• AIG OKs loan from Fed but still faces FBI probe
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - American International Group Inc. may have agreed to take the U.S. government up on a two-year, $85 billion loan to help stave off bankruptcy, but now the nation's largest insurer faces an FBI investigation.
   
  
• Highlights of offshore drilling, budget measure
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  (AP) - Highlights of a Democratic bill that would lift a moratorium on more offshore oil drilling and provide funding for federal agencies after the 2009 budget year that starts Oct. 1. The bill would:
   
  
• House takes up Senate-passed tax break package
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Major tax legislation that would save 20 million people from the clutches of the alternative minimum tax and renew dozens of popular tax breaks for businesses and individuals is being taken up in the House, where its fate is uncertain.
   
  
• Democrats to let offshore drilling ban expire
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Democrats have decided to allow a quarter-century ban on drilling for oil off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts to expire next week, conceding defeat in a months-long battle with the White House and Republicans set off by $4 a gallon gasoline prices this summer.
   
  
• Probe: Medicare paid billions in suspect claims
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The government paid more than $1 billion in questionable Medicare claims for medical supplies that showed little relation to a patient's condition, including blood glucose strips for sexual impotence and special diabetic shoes for leg amputees, congressional investigators say.
   
  
• Court mulls if Jefferson indictment is tainted
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - A Louisiana congressman accused of taking bribes challenged his indictment before a federal appeals court Wednesday, claiming grand jury testimony infringed on his constitutionally protected activities.
   
  
• Exec pay limits gain support as bailout questioned
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Executives whose companies get a piece of the $700 billion government bailout will have their pay packages strictly limited under proposals that are broadly supported by both Republicans and Democrats in Congress.
   
  
• FAMM Poll: Americans Oppose Mandatory Minimums, Will Vote for Candidates Who Feel the Same
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A new poll released today by Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM) shows widespread support for ending mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent offenses and that Americans will vote for candidates who feel the same way.
   
  
• Lilly to Sponsor Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Eli Lilly and Company today announced its sponsorship of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 38th Annual Legislative Convention (ALC), set for September 24 -- 27, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.
   
  
• Bernanke: Fed will 'act as needed' to help
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke told Congress Wednesday that global financial markets remain under "extraordinary stress" and that worsening conditions could further jeopardize the already troubled U.S. economy.
   
  
• EU Parliament calls for telecom regulatory group
  AP (September 24, 2008)
  BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) - The European Parliament called Wednesday for a new, independent telecommunications regulatory group to help open up competition for Internet and phone services across Europe.
   
  
• Bally Technologies Announces Settlement With Securities and Exchange Commission Over Investigation
  PRNewswire (September 24, 2008)
  LAS VEGAS, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Bally Technologies, Inc. , a leader in slots, video machines, casino management systems, and networked solutions for the global gaming industry, today announced that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved a settlement with the Company concerning the SEC's investigation of Bally's historical revenue accounting.
   
  
• Senate votes on huge tax break package
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Senate is taking up a $100 billion tax bill designed to spur renewable energy investment, give tax breaks to businesses and individuals and protect more than 20 million people from the dreaded alternative minimum tax.
   
  
• Landmark Foster Care and Adoption Bill Makes Critical Improvements to Nation's Foster Care System
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  Bill Implements Policy Recommendations by Pew Commission on Children in Foster Care
   
  
• Policy Center Demos Urges House to Pass 'Credit Cardholder's Bill of Rights'
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  Floor Vote Expected Today, September 23, 2008; Congress Urged Not to Weaken Consumer Protections in Bill
   
  
• Chinese tainted milk scandal fans fear across Asia
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  HONG KONG (AP) - China's milk scandal fanned fears across Asia on Tuesday as countries expanded bans on Chinese dairy products to include candy and other goods and worried parents rushed their children to hospitals for health checkups.
   
  
• Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget Comments on Financial Bailout Plan
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget commented on the White House's $700 billion plan to try to stabilize financial markets.
   
  
• Stevens asks to skip court during financial mess
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - With Congress rushing to stop a meltdown in the U.S. financial market, Sen. Ted Stevens says he may have to skip out of his corruption trial from time to time.
   
  
• Outburst! At The Presidential Debate 2:00-3:30 PM Friday, September 26th
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  A High-Tech Youth Forum on Public Policy Issues
   
  
• USAID Grants $2 Million to the United Nations Literacy Decade Fund to Advance Global Literacy
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- USAID provided a grant of more than $2 million to support the new United Nations Literacy Decade Fund to Advance Global Literacy at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The Fund will promote best practices and effective programs in areas with high illiteracy rates and ensure that programs are accountable and
   
  
• Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act to Be Heard in Small Business Hearing
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The full Committee on Small Business, Chaired by Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY), will hold a hearing on: "Small Business Competition Policy: Are Markets Open For Entrepreneurship?" Among those testifying in favor of The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, HR 2694, will be two constituents of Right to Repair opponent Rep. Lynn Westm
   
  
• Bank bailout means dollar uncertainty
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  PARIS (AP) - The U.S. dollar could be in for a rocky ride in coming days as investors lurch from hope that the worst of the financial crisis is over to fear about the long-term impact that hundreds of billions of dollars in new debt will have on U.S. government finances, analysts say.
   
  
• Remarks Prepared for Delivery by Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey at the Project Safe Childhood National Conference
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  COLUMBUS, Ohio, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following are the remarks prepared for delivery by Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey at the Project Safe Childhood National Conference:
   
  
• Alexander Machkevich Honored With John Paul II Wellspring of Freedom Award at World Jewish Congress Forum
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  UNITED NATIONS, N.Y., Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The World Jewish Congress American Section and Liberty Publishing today hosted an International Leaders Forum in celebration of Alexander Machkevich's new book, Dialogue of Civilizations: The Next Stage, at the Millennium UN Plaza Hotel.
   
  
• Co-Chairs of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer's Disease Call on Presidential Candidates for Increased Attention to Diagnosis, Treatment of Dementia
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  
   
  
• Bush assures world leaders about financial crisis
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  UNITED NATIONS (AP) - President Bush has assured world leaders that the U.S. is acting decisively to contain the financial crisis. Bush also told the United Nations that the terror threat has not receded and that work must continue to deny terrorists refuge. The president said that Iraq and Afghanistan are now democracies that fight terror.
   
  
• Florida Victory Announces 'Victory 2008' Bus Tour
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The following was released today by the Republican National Committee:
   
  
• VA Announces $36 Million in Grants for Homeless Programs
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Homeless veterans in 35 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico will get more assistance, thanks to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) grants providing $36.7 million to community groups to create 1,526 beds for homeless veterans this year.
   
  
• Bernanke: Recession certain in absence of bailout
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke bluntly warned Congress on Tuesday it risks a recession, with higher unemployment and increased home foreclosures, if lawmakers fail to pass the Bush administration's $700 billio
   
  
• Senators seek rights protections in FBI probes
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Three Democratic senators demanded "bare-minimum" civil rights protections Tuesday for Americans who might be targeted in FBI national security investigations without any evidence of wrongdoing.
   
  
• Prominent political prisoner freed in Myanmar
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  YANGON, Myanmar (AP) - Myanmar's longest-serving political prisoner was among more than 9,000 inmates freed Tuesday, days before the first anniversary of the junta's deadly crackdown on anti-government protests led by Buddhist monks.
   
  
• New Ad Questions Financial Bailout Without Conditions
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  
   
  
• Farm groups worried about meat labeling law
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Farm groups are protesting the Agriculture Department's use of a new food labeling law, saying it has loopholes that could confuse consumers about where their meat comes from.
   
  
• Paulson sees different ways to price bad debts
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson envisions using different methods to price a range of rotten securities that banks would unload to the government.
   
  
• FDA cracks down on unapproved drugs
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Federal officials on Tuesday launched a crackdown against several companies that market an eye wash and a widely used skin cream without government approval, saying these prescription medications could pose risks.
   
  
• New Report: Ballot Measure 3 Will Reduce Smoking, Save Lives and Save Money in North Dakota
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  
   
  
• Tomato processing, egg products industries probed
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A federal investigation into possible food price-fixing has been expanded to include two major industries, tomato processing and egg products.
   
  
• EU says text message charges should be slashed
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) - Sending a text message home to boast about a beach vacation should cost less than half of what it does now, EU regulators said Tuesday.
   
  
• WTO probes Japanese tariff on Hynix computer chips
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  GENEVA (AP) - The World Trade Organization will examine whether Japan is complying with a ruling against its punitive import charge on South Korean computer chips.
   
  
• Congress Passes Historic Child Welfare Legislation Statement from CWLA (Child Welfare League of America)
  PRNewswire (September 23, 2008)
  
   
  
• Feds ask to put wolves back on endangered list
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) - Federal wildlife officials have asked a judge to put gray wolves in the Northern Rockies back on the endangered species list - a sharp reversal from the government's prior contention that the animals were thriving.
   
  
• Bush confident Congress will quickly pass bailout
  AP (September 23, 2008)
  UNITED NATIONS (AP) - President Bush tried to assure world leaders on Tuesday that he is acting decisively and quickly to contain a U.S. financial crisis that is going global.
   
  
• Department of Justice to Hold Project Safe Childhood National Conference in Columbus, Ohio
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  
   
  
• Court: US govt can't block detainee photos release
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - An appeals court says the federal government must release 20 photographs of U.S. soldiers and detainees in Iraq and Afghanistan that were demanded by a civil rights group seeking to expose abuse.
   
  
• ClosingCorp Urges RESPA Changes to Help Consumers Shop for Real Estate Closing Services
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  
   
  
• Economic powers pledge to stem financial crisis
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Finance officials from the globe's major economic powers pledged Monday to do all they can to fight a worsening credit crisis that threatens the world's economic health and stability.
   
  
• Gov. contractor pleads guilty to passport snooping
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A State Department contractor has pleaded guilty to illegally looking at the passport information of nearly 200 celebrities, athletes, actors and politicians over a three-year period.
   
  
• Message to Congress: Bailout Must Stop Foreclosures, Too
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today more than 30 advocacy and community development groups representing ten million members sent a strong message to Capitol Hill: The Paulson bailout plan will be unfair and ineffective if it fails to address the foreclosure crisis. The groups signing the letter strongly support lifting the legal ban that now prevents homeowners from going to cour
   
  
• Ford, Dow execs to announce national summit in '09
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  DETROIT (AP) - Amid the turmoil on Wall Street, leaders from two global companies hard hit by economic and industrial upheavals are expected to unveil plans Monday for a national convention being held next year to discuss the future of manufacturing, technology, energy and the environment.
   
  
• Maternity Care Doctors to Call for Renewal of MCARE Abatement Fund, Address Growing Shortage of Maternity Care Physicians
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  OAKS, Pa., Sept. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- A group of southeastern Pennsylvania maternity care physicians will hold a press conference on Thursday, September 25 at 12:00 PM at their practice in Strafford to raise awareness of the growing maternity care crisis in Pennsylvania, and how a legislative stalemate in Harrisburg is contributing to that crisis. State Representative Mike Vereb (R-Montgomery)
   
  
• Iran moves closer to nuke weapons capacity
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  VIENNA, Austria (AP) - Two years? One? Even less? Opinions differ on how close Iran may be to being able to develop a nuclear weapon, but concerned governments and experts agree the time to stop Tehran is growing short - and the options limited.
   
  
• Justice Department Reaches Voting Rights Settlement With The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Justice Department announced today that it has reached a settlement agreement with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts resolving allegations that the Commonwealth violated the rights of Puerto Rican voters under Section 4(e) of the Voting Rights Act (VRA).
   
  
• Family Research Council to Defend Ireland Abortion Ban
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  Alliance Defense Fund to Represent FRC
   
  
• Leading Consumer, Labor and Civil Rights Groups: Bailout Must Include Relief for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure, Not Just Wall Street
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following letter was sent today by 35 major U.S. consumer, labor, civil rights groups:
   
  
• Congress, Bush team agree on bailout terms
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A key Democrat negotiating a $700 billion financial bailout says the Bush administration has agreed to include mortgage aid and strong congressional oversight in the plan.
   
  
• Pro-Life Chair to Congress: 'We Can't Reduce Abortions By Promoting Abortion'
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Writing to all members of Congress on September 19, Cardinal Justin Rigali warned against enactment of the proposed "Freedom of Choice Act" or "FOCA" (S. 1173, H.R. 1964).
   
  
• Sudan to lobby UN to avert president's prosecution
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  CAIRO, Egypt (AP) - Sudan officials plan a behind-the-scenes lobbying effort at the United Nations this week to avert the prosecution of the country's longtime president on charges of genocide in Darfur.
   
  
• Dead Heat in Silver State Showdown
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  BOSTON, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As the two major presidential candidates prepare to debate Friday night, John McCain (45.8 percent) and Barack Obama (45.3 percent) are in a virtual dead heat, with McCain leading by the slightest of margins among likely voters in the state of Nevada, according to a poll released today by Suffolk University.
   
  
• Powerful lawmakers on Stevens trial witness list
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The corruption trial of Sen. Ted Stevens could provide a parade of powerful witnesses, from former Secretary of State Colin Powell to Sens. Ted Kennedy and Patrick Leahy.
   
  
• Iraq, Shell sign deal
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  BAGHDAD (AP) - Iraq and Royal Dutch Shell PLC signed a deal to establish a joint venture that will tap natural gas in southern Iraq, the government said Monday.
   
  
• Improved healthfinder.gov Makes Health Information Quicker and Easier to Use
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  
   
  
• Solution sought for N.D. power line bird strikes
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  COLEHARBOR, N.D. (AP) - Death comes from above and below for birds on the causeway that separates Lake Audubon from Lake Sakakawea along the Missouri River.
   
  
• Credit markets ease slightly on bailout plans
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  NEW YORK (AP) - A few corners of the frozen credit markets thawed a bit Monday on news of the U.S. government's bank bailout plans, but business was hardly back to normal. And, even after the dust settles, credit market participants' lending and borrowing operations are likely to be dramatically changed.
   
  
• China's food safety chief quits over tainted milk
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  BEIJING (AP) - The head of the Chinese agency that monitors food and product safety has resigned, state media announced Monday, pushed out by a scandal over tainted baby formula that killed four babies and sickened nearly 53,000.
   
  
• Home Safety Council(R) Applauds Creation of Falls Prevention Awareness Day
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  
   
  
• Chief inspector: Iran may be hiding secret nukes
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  VIENNA, Austria (AP) - The chief U.N nuclear inspector says Iran may be hiding secret nuclear activities.
   
  
• Stevens arrives for start of corruption trial
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens has arrived in federal court to begin what could be the most important battle of his long career, defending himself against corruption charges in Washington while running for re-election back in Alaska.
   
  
• Democrats want pay limits, loan aid in bailout
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Judges could rewrite mortgages to lower bankrupt homeowners' monthly payments as part of congressional Democrats' proposal for a $700 billion financial system bailout.
   
  
• Chicago Faucets ECAST(TM) Line Allows California Schools to Immediately Address Latest Lead-Free Safety Standards for Drinking Water
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  DES PLAINES, Ill. and SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Ongoing efforts by state legislators to provide the safest drinking water possible to the residents, and especially to the children of California, has resulted in the creation of California Assembly Bill 1953 (AB1953). Slated to take effect on January 1, 2010, this new bill requires residential and commercial faucets that disp
   
  
• Calif. toll road hearing focuses on security
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  DEL MAR, Calif. (AP) - More than 1,000 people turned out Monday at a public hearing over a proposed toll road that would pass through one of Southern California's most popular parks and nearby a world-class surf break.
   
  
• Democrats urge caution on financial legislation
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Leading congressional Democrats called Monday for a cautious, deliberative approach to stabilizing troubled financial markets as lawmakers confronted this vexing issue with an election-year recess drawing near.
   
  
• Bush, Congress exchange views on relief bill
  AP (September 22, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush and leading Democrats differed Monday on just how quickly Congress should pass legislation stabilizing the country's troubled financial system.
   
  
• Cyalume Technologies, Inc. Announces the Only Commercially Available Phthalate Free Chemical Light
  PRNewswire (September 22, 2008)
  WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass., Sept. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- While exhibiting at the National Safety Council Expo in Anaheim, CA, Cyalume Light Technologies Inc. ("Cyalume"), a private company that is a leading provider of safety, security and training products for the US military and other militaries announced, that its SnapLight(R) product line will be made phthalate free. Responding to the &
   
  
• From USAID Administrator, Henrietta H. Fore: Humanitarian Assistance to Cuba
  PRNewswire (September 21, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Cuba has suffered great damage from multiple hurricanes since the end of August. In response, the U.S. government has offered -- on four separate occasions -- to provide the Cuban people with up to $5 million in emergency humanitarian assistance to those in dire need. Some of this assistance will soon arrive through relief and humanitarian organizations on
   
  
• Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation
  PRNewswire (September 20, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a transcript of Radio Address by President Bush to the Nation:
   
  
• Gov. O'Malley, Lt. Gov. Brown to Blast McCain for Being 'Out of Touch' on Economic Fundamentals
  PRNewswire (September 20, 2008)
  
   
  
• Treasury to guarantee money market mutual funds
  AP (September 19, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Treasury Department announced Friday it will tap into a Depression-era fund to provide guarantees for the nation's money market mutual funds.
   
  
• Multiple quick fixes tried for US financial crisis
  AP (September 19, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson says the bold approach needed to take troubled assets off the books of financial organizations will be expensive but doing nothing would cost far more.
   
  
• Fla. authorities say they can't prove Foley case
  AP (September 19, 2008)
  WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) - Florida authorities closed their case against Rep. Mark Foley on Friday, saying he won't face charges for allegedly sending salacious computer messages to underage male pages because prosecutors couldn't prove the authenticity of the chats.
   
  
• FAA failed to act on runway safety problems
  AP (September 19, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - A government watchdog is demanding an investigation of whistleblower complaints that federal aviation officials failed to follow through on runway safety problems brought to their attention.
   
  
• Spain: Another Basque party banned
  AP (September 19, 2008)
  MADRID, Spain (AP) - The Spanish Supreme Court has banned a Basque nationalist party on grounds that it is linked to the armed group ETA, the third ruling this week against pro-independence groups in the troubled region.
   
  
• Department of Justice to Hold Project Safe Childhood National Conference in Columbus, Ohio
  PRNewswire (September 19, 2008)
  WASHINGTON, Sept. 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Justice will host the 2008 Project Safe Childhood (PSC) National Conference in Columbus, Ohio, from September 23 through September 26. The conference, which will feature efforts to protect children from online predators through the Department's PSC initiative, is intended to strengthen relationships across agencies and jurisdiction
   
  
• Gov't plan on crisis to be finished over weekend
  AP (September 19, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Bush administration sketched out a multi-faceted effort on Friday to confront the worst U.S. financial crisis in decades, outlining a program that could cost taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars to buy up bad mortgages and other toxic debt that has unhinged Wall Street.
   
  
• Gov't rushing to finish huge financial rescue plan
  AP (September 19, 2008)
  WASHINGTON (AP) - The Bush administration sketched out a multi-fac