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Policy, Security, and Geopolitical Developments
New Jersey lifts moratorium to allow new nuclear power projects
New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed a bill Wednesday that lifts the state’s 40-year moratorium on new nuclear plant construction, clearing the way for possible new nuclear projects. The move is part of a broader effort to boost in-state power generation and lower utility costs, after a recent report found New Jersey had the nation’s biggest energy cost increase last year. Sherrill also announced a nuclear task force to help guide the long-term effort while emphasizing public safety and transparency.
Fired University of Wisconsin President Says He Was Surprised by His Ouster
Former Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman says he was shocked by being fired Tuesday and still has not been told why. In his first interview since the ouster, he said he is unlikely to sue over the decision.
France Restricts Chinese-Made Solar Components
France is moving to limit Chinese photovoltaic components as it prepares a government-backed push for new solar projects. The restriction combines protectionist measures with cybersecurity requirements, with officials pointing to Chinese laws that require firms to share key information and cooperate with Beijing.
Federal Officials Are Still Reviewing a Proposed HIPAA Security Rule Update
The Trump administration has not yet decided whether to move forward with a proposed overhaul of the HIPAA Security Rule introduced by the previous administration. HHS OCR’s director said regulators are weighing whether the cost of doing nothing could be greater than the burden of compliance.
Two Men Charged in Alleged ISIS-Inspired Bomb Plot at NYC Protest
Federal prosecutors say two men, Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, plotted an ISIS-inspired attack during a counter-protest outside New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s home. Investigators say they tried to detonate two improvised explosive devices, discussed killing up to 60 people, and had backup plans if the original attack failed. Both men were quickly detained after the devices did not detonate, and they are being held without bail on terrorism-related charges.
Ritchie Torres Calls for Federal Probe Into Suspicious Futures Trading
Rep. Ritchie Torres called for a federal investigation into unusual trading in oil and equity futures before President Trump announced a five-day delay in attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure in March. He said the timing raises questions about possible misuse of advance information.
Wisconsin City Approves First Anti-Data Center Referendum
Voters in Port Washington, Wisconsin, approved a referendum requiring future large-scale data center projects that receive tax benefits to win local voter approval. Unofficial county results show the measure passed with about 66 percent support, making it the first known referendum of its kind in the state.
Putin Sends Warship Through the Channel After Starmer Threatens to Seize Russian Tankers
Vladimir Putin has defied Sir Keir Starmer’s warning over sanctioned Russian vessels by sending a warship to escort two ships through the English Channel. A British naval vessel shadowed the flotilla, which passed British waters earlier today. The move comes weeks after Starmer gave special forces authority to seize sanctioned Russian vessels, but the UK has not yet taken any. Starmer is also under pressure after an Iranian-made drone hit RAF Akrotiri and delays hit HMS Dragon’s deployment.
ICE agents expected to leave Philadelphia International Airport this week
Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents sent to help at Philadelphia International Airport during the government shutdown are expected to leave as early as Thursday. Interim airport CEO Tracy Borda said the officers helped with queue management and passenger flow, and said there were no issues during their time in the terminals.
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