Potential Effects of a Ban on Direct-to-Consumer Advertising of New Prescription Drug
"Direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising of prescription drugs has elicited various concerns. One concern is that DTC advertising may add to spending on drugs by consumers, insurers, and the federal government without providing enough benefits to justify that spending; specifically, some observers worry that DTC advertising encourages broader use of certain drugs than their health benefits warrant. Another concern is that DTC advertising for newly approved drugs may lead people to use
drugs whose potential risks were not fully discovered during the drug approval process. Those concerns have spurred recent proposals for a moratorium on advertising brand-name prescription drugs to consumers during the first two years following a drug’s approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although such a moratorium would allow more time for safety concerns about a new drug to be revealed, it would entail health risks of its own, because some individuals who would
benefit from a new drug might be unaware of its availability in the absence of consumer advertising..."
Saturday, May 28, 2011
A Simpler, Smarter Regulatory System
"The President outlined his plan to create a 21st-century regulatory system, calling for an unprecedented government-wide review to eliminate tens of millions of hours in annual red-tape, and billions of dollars in regulatory costs while protecting the health and safety of the American people."
"The President outlined his plan to create a 21st-century regulatory system, calling for an unprecedented government-wide review to eliminate tens of millions of hours in annual red-tape, and billions of dollars in regulatory costs while protecting the health and safety of the American people."
Thursday, May 26, 2011
The Low-Down on High Octane Gasoline
"Are you tempted to buy a high octane gasoline for your car because you want to improve its performance? If so, take note: the recommended gasoline for most cars is regular octane. In fact, in most cases, using a higher octane gasoline than your owner's manual recommends offers absolutely no benefit. It won't make your car perform better, go faster, get better mileage or run cleaner. Your best bet: listen to your owner's manual.
The only time you might need to switch to a higher octane level is if your car engine knocks when you use the recommended fuel. This happens to a small percentage of cars.
Unless your engine is knocking, buying higher octane gasoline is a waste of money, too. Premium gas costs 15 to 20 cents per gallon more than regular. That can add up to $100 or more a year in extra costs. Studies indicate that altogether, drivers may be spending hundreds of millions of dollars each year for higher octane gas than they need..."
"Are you tempted to buy a high octane gasoline for your car because you want to improve its performance? If so, take note: the recommended gasoline for most cars is regular octane. In fact, in most cases, using a higher octane gasoline than your owner's manual recommends offers absolutely no benefit. It won't make your car perform better, go faster, get better mileage or run cleaner. Your best bet: listen to your owner's manual.
The only time you might need to switch to a higher octane level is if your car engine knocks when you use the recommended fuel. This happens to a small percentage of cars.
Unless your engine is knocking, buying higher octane gasoline is a waste of money, too. Premium gas costs 15 to 20 cents per gallon more than regular. That can add up to $100 or more a year in extra costs. Studies indicate that altogether, drivers may be spending hundreds of millions of dollars each year for higher octane gas than they need..."
2010 Census Shows Nation's Population is Aging
"The U.S. Census Bureau released today a 2010 Census brief on our nation's changing age and sex composition that shows the nation grew older while the male population grew faster than the female population over the last decade.
According to Age and Sex Composition: 2010 [PDF], the median age of Americans is now 37.2, with seven states recording a median age of 40 or older. The brief also shows the male population grew 9.9 percent between 2000 and 2010, while the female population grew 9.5 percent. Of the total 2010 Census population, 157.0 million people were female (50.8 percent) and 151.8 million were male (49.2 percent)..."
"The U.S. Census Bureau released today a 2010 Census brief on our nation's changing age and sex composition that shows the nation grew older while the male population grew faster than the female population over the last decade.
According to Age and Sex Composition: 2010 [PDF], the median age of Americans is now 37.2, with seven states recording a median age of 40 or older. The brief also shows the male population grew 9.9 percent between 2000 and 2010, while the female population grew 9.5 percent. Of the total 2010 Census population, 157.0 million people were female (50.8 percent) and 151.8 million were male (49.2 percent)..."
2010 Census Shows Nation's Hispanic Population Grew Four Times Faster Than Total U.S. Population
"The U.S. Census Bureau today released a 2010 Census brief on the nation's Hispanic population, which shows the Hispanic population increased by 15.2 million between 2000 and 2010 and accounted for more than half of the total U.S. population increase of 27.3 million. Between 2000 and 2010, the Hispanic population grew by 43 percent, or four times the nation's 9.7 percent growth rate.
The Hispanic Population: 2010 brief looks at an important part of our nation's changing ethnic diversity with a particular focus on Hispanic origin groups, such as Mexican, Dominican and Cuban..."
"The U.S. Census Bureau today released a 2010 Census brief on the nation's Hispanic population, which shows the Hispanic population increased by 15.2 million between 2000 and 2010 and accounted for more than half of the total U.S. population increase of 27.3 million. Between 2000 and 2010, the Hispanic population grew by 43 percent, or four times the nation's 9.7 percent growth rate.
The Hispanic Population: 2010 brief looks at an important part of our nation's changing ethnic diversity with a particular focus on Hispanic origin groups, such as Mexican, Dominican and Cuban..."
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Next generation fuel economy labels arm consumers with information they can use
Statement of Ray LaHood, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation, May 25, 2011.
"Today, I'm excited to join Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson in introducing new fuel economy labels that will empower car buyers with better information about what they will spend or save on fuel costs when looking to purchase a new vehicle. This is one part of President Obama's plan to provide Americans with relief from high gas prices and break our dependence on foreign oil.
These labels offer consumers more information in a more usable format. When shopping for a new vehicle, you'll be able to see your expected savings over a five-year period, a fuel economy comparison to other vehicles in the same class, and easy-to-understand guidance about each car or truck’s environmental impact. The bottom line is that these labels will help people make informed decisions when they're buying a car, so that they can save money at the gas pump.
The new labels also feature a QR code that allows car buyers to comparison shop on the go. Shoppers can scan the QR code with their smartphones to store that vehicle's information, compare it to other vehicles, and access www.fueleconomy.gov for even more information..."
Statement of Ray LaHood, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation, May 25, 2011.
"Today, I'm excited to join Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson in introducing new fuel economy labels that will empower car buyers with better information about what they will spend or save on fuel costs when looking to purchase a new vehicle. This is one part of President Obama's plan to provide Americans with relief from high gas prices and break our dependence on foreign oil.
These labels offer consumers more information in a more usable format. When shopping for a new vehicle, you'll be able to see your expected savings over a five-year period, a fuel economy comparison to other vehicles in the same class, and easy-to-understand guidance about each car or truck’s environmental impact. The bottom line is that these labels will help people make informed decisions when they're buying a car, so that they can save money at the gas pump.
The new labels also feature a QR code that allows car buyers to comparison shop on the go. Shoppers can scan the QR code with their smartphones to store that vehicle's information, compare it to other vehicles, and access www.fueleconomy.gov for even more information..."
Options for Changing the Tax Treatment of Charitable Giving
"...For this analysis, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO)examined how much taxpayers in various income groups donate to charities and what types of organizations receive those donations. CBO also investigated how changing the structure of tax incentives for giving would affect the tax subsidy (the cost in forgone revenues to the federal government), the overall level of charitable
giving, and the extent to which different income groups benefit from the tax preference. Specifically, CBO looked at 11 options for altering the current income tax treatment of charitable giving, which can be grouped into
4 categories:
Retaining the current deduction for itemizers but adding a floor.
Allowing all taxpayers to claim the deduction, with or without a floor.
Replacing the deduction with a nonrefundable credit for all taxpayers, equal to 25 percent of a taxpayer’s charitable donations, with or without a floor.
Replacing the deduction with a nonrefundable credit for all taxpayers, equal to 15 percent of a taxpayer’s charitable donations, with or without a floor..."
"...For this analysis, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO)examined how much taxpayers in various income groups donate to charities and what types of organizations receive those donations. CBO also investigated how changing the structure of tax incentives for giving would affect the tax subsidy (the cost in forgone revenues to the federal government), the overall level of charitable
giving, and the extent to which different income groups benefit from the tax preference. Specifically, CBO looked at 11 options for altering the current income tax treatment of charitable giving, which can be grouped into
4 categories:
Retaining the current deduction for itemizers but adding a floor.
Allowing all taxpayers to claim the deduction, with or without a floor.
Replacing the deduction with a nonrefundable credit for all taxpayers, equal to 25 percent of a taxpayer’s charitable donations, with or without a floor.
Replacing the deduction with a nonrefundable credit for all taxpayers, equal to 15 percent of a taxpayer’s charitable donations, with or without a floor..."
Investor.gov
Find investment information from the newly launched Investor.gov site from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Find investment information from the newly launched Investor.gov site from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Privacy Protection and for Personal Information Online
"There is no comprehensive federal privacy statute that protects personal information. Instead, a patchwork of federal laws and regulations govern the collection and disclosure of personal information and has been addressed by Congress on a sector-by-sector basis. Federal laws and regulations extend protection to consumer credit reports, electronic communications, federal agency records, education records, bank records, cable subscriber information, video rental
records, motor vehicle records, health information, telecommunications subscriber information, children’s online information, and customer financial information. Some contend that this patchwork of laws and regulations is insufficient to meet the demands of today’s technology. Congress, the Obama Administration, businesses, public interest groups, and citizens are all involved in the discussion of privacy solutions. This report examines some of those efforts with respect to the protection of personal information. This report provides a brief overview of selected recent developments in the area of federal privacy law. This report does not cover
workplace privacy laws or state privacy laws..."
"There is no comprehensive federal privacy statute that protects personal information. Instead, a patchwork of federal laws and regulations govern the collection and disclosure of personal information and has been addressed by Congress on a sector-by-sector basis. Federal laws and regulations extend protection to consumer credit reports, electronic communications, federal agency records, education records, bank records, cable subscriber information, video rental
records, motor vehicle records, health information, telecommunications subscriber information, children’s online information, and customer financial information. Some contend that this patchwork of laws and regulations is insufficient to meet the demands of today’s technology. Congress, the Obama Administration, businesses, public interest groups, and citizens are all involved in the discussion of privacy solutions. This report examines some of those efforts with respect to the protection of personal information. This report provides a brief overview of selected recent developments in the area of federal privacy law. This report does not cover
workplace privacy laws or state privacy laws..."
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
2011 Tornado Information
Track tornadoes this season at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Tornado
information Center.
Track tornadoes this season at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Tornado
information Center.
Census Bureau to Release New Data About Nation's Age and Sex Composition and Hispanic Population
"The U.S. Census Bureau will hold an audio and Web news conference to release the next two briefs from the 2010 Census. During the event, Census Bureau demographers will discuss the changes in the nation's age and sex composition, including changes in the median age and sex ratios. The demographers will also discuss the growth and geographic distribution of Hispanic origin groups, such as Mexican, Puerto Rican or Cuban.
When:
Thursday, May 26, 2011; 1 p.m. (EDT)
Who:
Lindsay Howden, statistician, Age and Special Populations Branch,
Population Division, U.S. Census Bureau
Merarys Ríos-Vargas, statistician demographer, Ethnicity and Ancestry Branch,
Population Division, U.S. Census Bureau
Sharon Ennis, statistician, Ethnicity and Ancestry Branch,
Population Division, U.S. Census Bureau
Details:
Audio conference — access information
Toll free number: 1-877-917-7127
Participant passcode: CENSUS
Note: Stay on the line until operator asks for the passcode. Do not key in passcode.
Online presentation — access information
Please login early, as some setup is required.
URL:
Conference number: PW7661562
Audience passcode: CENSUS
If closed captioning is required:
"
"The U.S. Census Bureau will hold an audio and Web news conference to release the next two briefs from the 2010 Census. During the event, Census Bureau demographers will discuss the changes in the nation's age and sex composition, including changes in the median age and sex ratios. The demographers will also discuss the growth and geographic distribution of Hispanic origin groups, such as Mexican, Puerto Rican or Cuban.
When:
Thursday, May 26, 2011; 1 p.m. (EDT)
Who:
Lindsay Howden, statistician, Age and Special Populations Branch,
Population Division, U.S. Census Bureau
Merarys Ríos-Vargas, statistician demographer, Ethnicity and Ancestry Branch,
Population Division, U.S. Census Bureau
Sharon Ennis, statistician, Ethnicity and Ancestry Branch,
Population Division, U.S. Census Bureau
Details:
Audio conference — access information
Toll free number: 1-877-917-7127
Participant passcode: CENSUS
Note: Stay on the line until operator asks for the passcode. Do not key in passcode.
Online presentation — access information
Please login early, as some setup is required.
URL:
Conference number: PW7661562
Audience passcode: CENSUS
If closed captioning is required:
National Library of Medicine Releases “Medicine in the Americas,” Featuring Digitized Versions of American Medical Books Dating Back to 1610
"The National Library of Medicine, the world's largest medical library and a component of NIH, announces the release of "Medicine in the Americas." A digital resource encompassing over 300 early American printed books, Medicine in the Americas makes freely available original works demonstrating the evolution of American medicine from colonial frontier outposts of the 17th century to research hospitals of the 20th century.
Drawing on the collections of NLM's History of Medicine Division and including works from the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada, this initial release of Medicine in the Americas encompasses monographs dating from 1610 to 1865. Additional titles, dating up to 1920 and drawing further upon NLM's comprehensive collection of early American printed books, will be available on an ongoing basis in the future..."
"The National Library of Medicine, the world's largest medical library and a component of NIH, announces the release of "Medicine in the Americas." A digital resource encompassing over 300 early American printed books, Medicine in the Americas makes freely available original works demonstrating the evolution of American medicine from colonial frontier outposts of the 17th century to research hospitals of the 20th century.
Drawing on the collections of NLM's History of Medicine Division and including works from the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada, this initial release of Medicine in the Americas encompasses monographs dating from 1610 to 1865. Additional titles, dating up to 1920 and drawing further upon NLM's comprehensive collection of early American printed books, will be available on an ongoing basis in the future..."
Monday, May 23, 2011
Coffee Consumption and Prostate Cancer Risk and Progression in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study
"...The average intake of coffee in 1986 was 1.9 cups per day. Men who consumed six or more cups per day had a lower adjusted relative risk for overall prostate cancer compared with nondrinkers (RR = 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.68 to 0.98, Ptrend = .10). The association was stronger for lethal prostate cancer (consumers of more than six cups of coffee per day: RR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.22 to 0.75, Ptrend = .03). Coffee consumption was not associated with the risk of nonadvanced or low-grade cancers and was only weakly inversely associated with high-grade cancer. The inverse association with lethal cancer was similar for regular and decaffeinated coffee (each one cup per day increment: RR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.88 to 1.01, P = .08 for regular coffee and RR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.83 to 1.00, P = .05 for decaffeinated coffee). The age-adjusted incidence rates for men who had the highest (≥6 cups per day) and lowest (no coffee) coffee consumption were 425 and 519 total prostate cancers, respectively, per 100 000 person-years and 34 and 79 lethal prostate cancers, respectively, per 100 000 person-years.
Conclusions
We observed a strong inverse association between coffee consumption and risk of lethal prostate cancer. The association appears to be related to non-caffeine components of coffee."
"...The average intake of coffee in 1986 was 1.9 cups per day. Men who consumed six or more cups per day had a lower adjusted relative risk for overall prostate cancer compared with nondrinkers (RR = 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.68 to 0.98, Ptrend = .10). The association was stronger for lethal prostate cancer (consumers of more than six cups of coffee per day: RR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.22 to 0.75, Ptrend = .03). Coffee consumption was not associated with the risk of nonadvanced or low-grade cancers and was only weakly inversely associated with high-grade cancer. The inverse association with lethal cancer was similar for regular and decaffeinated coffee (each one cup per day increment: RR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.88 to 1.01, P = .08 for regular coffee and RR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.83 to 1.00, P = .05 for decaffeinated coffee). The age-adjusted incidence rates for men who had the highest (≥6 cups per day) and lowest (no coffee) coffee consumption were 425 and 519 total prostate cancers, respectively, per 100 000 person-years and 34 and 79 lethal prostate cancers, respectively, per 100 000 person-years.
Conclusions
We observed a strong inverse association between coffee consumption and risk of lethal prostate cancer. The association appears to be related to non-caffeine components of coffee."
Preliminary Annual Uniform Crime Report 2010
"Preliminary FBI figures reveal that the levels of both violent crime and property crime in the U.S. declined in 2010 from the previous year's data.
The 2010 Preliminary Annual Uniform Crime Report, just released today, shows a 5.5 percent decrease in the number of reported violent crimes when compared with data from 2009. It also shows a 2.8 percent decline in reported property crimes.
This latest report is based on information submitted to the FBI from 13,007 law enforcement agencies around the country. The crimes covered are murder, forcible rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson..."
"Preliminary FBI figures reveal that the levels of both violent crime and property crime in the U.S. declined in 2010 from the previous year's data.
The 2010 Preliminary Annual Uniform Crime Report, just released today, shows a 5.5 percent decrease in the number of reported violent crimes when compared with data from 2009. It also shows a 2.8 percent decline in reported property crimes.
This latest report is based on information submitted to the FBI from 13,007 law enforcement agencies around the country. The crimes covered are murder, forcible rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson..."
Geographical Mobility: 2010
"Every year, millions of people pack up and move from one residence to another. This trend has long been an important aspect of American life, affecting both people and geographic areas. In 2010, more than one in 10 U.S. residents (1 year and older) moved within the previous year.
Among the interesting details that came out of the 2010 Current Population Survey’s Annual Social and Economic Supplement — seven in 10 of those people moved within the same county, nearly two in 10 moved from a different county within the same state, and about one in 10 moved to a different state.
This information is from Geographical Mobility: 2010, the latest in a series of tables that describe the movement of people in the United States. The tables show the mover rate is different for people who are married versus people who are single. Another factor we can examine is how the mover rate varies by whether the housing unit is owned or rented...
"Every year, millions of people pack up and move from one residence to another. This trend has long been an important aspect of American life, affecting both people and geographic areas. In 2010, more than one in 10 U.S. residents (1 year and older) moved within the previous year.
Among the interesting details that came out of the 2010 Current Population Survey’s Annual Social and Economic Supplement — seven in 10 of those people moved within the same county, nearly two in 10 moved from a different county within the same state, and about one in 10 moved to a different state.
This information is from Geographical Mobility: 2010, the latest in a series of tables that describe the movement of people in the United States. The tables show the mover rate is different for people who are married versus people who are single. Another factor we can examine is how the mover rate varies by whether the housing unit is owned or rented...
Epidemic: Responding to America's Prescription Drug Crisis
"Prescription drug abuse is the Nation’s fastest-growing drug problem. While there has been a marked decrease in the use of some illegal drugs like cocaine, data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) show that nearly one-third of people aged 12 and over who used drugs for the irst time in 2009 began by using a prescription drug non-medically.1 The same survey found that over 70 percent of people who abused prescription pain relievers got them from friends or relatives, while approximately 5 percent got them from a drug dealer or from the Internet.2 Additionally, the latest Monitoring the Future study—the Nation’s largest survey of drug use among young people—showed that prescription drugs are the second most-abused category of drugs after marijuana.3 In our military, illicit drug use increased from 5 percent to 12 percent among active duty service members over a three-year period from 2005 to 2008, primarily attributed to prescription drug abuse.drug_abuse
"Prescription drug abuse is the Nation’s fastest-growing drug problem. While there has been a marked decrease in the use of some illegal drugs like cocaine, data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) show that nearly one-third of people aged 12 and over who used drugs for the irst time in 2009 began by using a prescription drug non-medically.1 The same survey found that over 70 percent of people who abused prescription pain relievers got them from friends or relatives, while approximately 5 percent got them from a drug dealer or from the Internet.2 Additionally, the latest Monitoring the Future study—the Nation’s largest survey of drug use among young people—showed that prescription drugs are the second most-abused category of drugs after marijuana.3 In our military, illicit drug use increased from 5 percent to 12 percent among active duty service members over a three-year period from 2005 to 2008, primarily attributed to prescription drug abuse.drug_abuse
What are greenhouse gases and how much are emitted by the United States?
"Greenhouse gases trap heat from the sun and warm the planet's surface. Of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, 87% are related to energy consumption. From 1990 to 2009, greenhouse gas emissions in the United States have grown by about 0.04% per year. The United States accounts for about 20% of the world's total energy-related carbon dioxide."
"Greenhouse gases trap heat from the sun and warm the planet's surface. Of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, 87% are related to energy consumption. From 1990 to 2009, greenhouse gas emissions in the United States have grown by about 0.04% per year. The United States accounts for about 20% of the world's total energy-related carbon dioxide."
Friday, May 20, 2011
Farm Security Administration/Office of War Information Color Photographs
A collection of depression era photographs and print compiled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Security Administration is now available at the Library of Congress. Use the search engine to search through the collection.
A collection of depression era photographs and print compiled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Security Administration is now available at the Library of Congress. Use the search engine to search through the collection.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Bike to Work Week
"Bicycle riding can improve your health, save money transportation or fuel, and help you protect (and enjoy!) the environment. Each year Bike To Work Week is celebrated by thousands of people and is a reminder to dust off and gear up for the riding season.
Pick 5 for the Environment! Biking to work is one of those simple steps you can do to make a difference where you live. When you Pick 5, just select "human powered modes of transportation" under the Air category.
Submit photos! If you take pictures biking to work, submit a few to the State of the Environment photo project!
Share your thoughts! Check out the Greenversations blog post "Bike to Work Day — Who's In?" about biking to work, and tell us about your ride to to the office or wherever you go.
Learn more! Find more ideas you can use on the road to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce the nation's dependence on oil, and save money."
"Bicycle riding can improve your health, save money transportation or fuel, and help you protect (and enjoy!) the environment. Each year Bike To Work Week is celebrated by thousands of people and is a reminder to dust off and gear up for the riding season.
Pick 5 for the Environment! Biking to work is one of those simple steps you can do to make a difference where you live. When you Pick 5, just select "human powered modes of transportation" under the Air category.
Submit photos! If you take pictures biking to work, submit a few to the State of the Environment photo project!
Share your thoughts! Check out the Greenversations blog post "Bike to Work Day — Who's In?" about biking to work, and tell us about your ride to to the office or wherever you go.
Learn more! Find more ideas you can use on the road to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce the nation's dependence on oil, and save money."
HELP US MAKE IT EASIER TO SHOP FOR A MORTGAGE
Find information on newly proposed simplified mortgage disclosure information from the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau.
Find information on newly proposed simplified mortgage disclosure information from the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau.
The State of Campaign Finance Policy: Recent Developments and Issues for Congress
"Campaign finance policy is arguably at a crossroads. For decades, Congress, regulatory agencies, and courts have emphasized the need to reduce potential corruption by providing public disclosure of information about campaign contributions and expenditures. Preventing corruption and enhancing transparency remain prominent themes in campaign finance policy, but what those goals mean and how they should be accomplished appears to be in flux. Both minor and major changes have occurred in campaign finance policy since 2002, when Congress last substantially amended campaign finance law via the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA). More recently, the Supreme Court's 2010 ruling in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission and a related lower-court decision, SpeechNow.org v. Federal Election Commission, arguably represent the most fundamental changes to campaign finance law in decades. During the 111th Congress, the House responded by enacting the DISCLOSE Act (H.R. 5175; S. 3295; S. 3628). The Senate declined to do so. Campaign finance issues continue developing in Congress, at regulatory agencies, and in the courts..."
"Campaign finance policy is arguably at a crossroads. For decades, Congress, regulatory agencies, and courts have emphasized the need to reduce potential corruption by providing public disclosure of information about campaign contributions and expenditures. Preventing corruption and enhancing transparency remain prominent themes in campaign finance policy, but what those goals mean and how they should be accomplished appears to be in flux. Both minor and major changes have occurred in campaign finance policy since 2002, when Congress last substantially amended campaign finance law via the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA). More recently, the Supreme Court's 2010 ruling in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission and a related lower-court decision, SpeechNow.org v. Federal Election Commission, arguably represent the most fundamental changes to campaign finance law in decades. During the 111th Congress, the House responded by enacting the DISCLOSE Act (H.R. 5175; S. 3295; S. 3628). The Senate declined to do so. Campaign finance issues continue developing in Congress, at regulatory agencies, and in the courts..."
The FDIC Issues Consumer Tips on How to "Shop and Save" on Loans, Credit Cards and Deposit Accounts
"The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation today issued tips to help consumers shop for a variety of bank products and services by carefully evaluating their needs, contacting multiple institutions and reading the fine print before making a decision. The advice was published as a special edition of the quarterly FDIC Consumer News (the Spring 2011 issue), which is entitled "Shop and Save...at the Bank: A Buyer's Guide to Finding the Right Loan, Credit Card or Deposit Account."
The FDIC publication includes:
Strategies for choosing a mortgage, credit card, home equity loan, checking account or bank CD (certificate of deposit) that makes sense for the consumer;
Lower-cost alternatives to traditional -- and potentially expensive -- overdraft programs.
Information about escrow accounts for mortgage borrowers and the importance of monitoring the accounts for costly mistakes;
A suggestion to avoid mistakes when additional services are marketed with a loan or a credit card;
Information about why consumers should be cautious before using a prepaid card for their basic banking needs;
A reminder that stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities and other non-deposit products sold at banks are not FDIC-insured and that some of these investments can lose money; and
A basic "to-do" list for shopping at the bank..."
"The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation today issued tips to help consumers shop for a variety of bank products and services by carefully evaluating their needs, contacting multiple institutions and reading the fine print before making a decision. The advice was published as a special edition of the quarterly FDIC Consumer News (the Spring 2011 issue), which is entitled "Shop and Save...at the Bank: A Buyer's Guide to Finding the Right Loan, Credit Card or Deposit Account."
The FDIC publication includes:
Strategies for choosing a mortgage, credit card, home equity loan, checking account or bank CD (certificate of deposit) that makes sense for the consumer;
Lower-cost alternatives to traditional -- and potentially expensive -- overdraft programs.
Information about escrow accounts for mortgage borrowers and the importance of monitoring the accounts for costly mistakes;
A suggestion to avoid mistakes when additional services are marketed with a loan or a credit card;
Information about why consumers should be cautious before using a prepaid card for their basic banking needs;
A reminder that stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities and other non-deposit products sold at banks are not FDIC-insured and that some of these investments can lose money; and
A basic "to-do" list for shopping at the bank..."
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
CDC Finds Annual Estimated Cost of U.S. Crash-Related Deaths is $41 Billion
"Motor vehicle crash-related deaths in the United States resulted in an estimated $41 billion in medical and work loss costs in a year, according to state-based estimates released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Half of this cost ($20.4 billion) was in 10 states, the report says.
CDC's data analysis found that the 10 states with the highest medical and work loss costs were California ($4.16 billion), Texas ($3.50 billion), Florida ($3.16 billion), Georgia ($1.55 billion), Pennsylvania ($1.52 billion), North Carolina ($1.50 billion), New York ($1.33 billion), Illinois ($1.32 billion), Ohio ($1.23 billion), and Tennessee ($1.15 billion).
These cost findings are based on 2005 data, which is the most recent year for which comprehensive data on costs associated with crash deaths is available. The study was not configured to develop an explanation for the variation in state costs..."
"Motor vehicle crash-related deaths in the United States resulted in an estimated $41 billion in medical and work loss costs in a year, according to state-based estimates released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Half of this cost ($20.4 billion) was in 10 states, the report says.
CDC's data analysis found that the 10 states with the highest medical and work loss costs were California ($4.16 billion), Texas ($3.50 billion), Florida ($3.16 billion), Georgia ($1.55 billion), Pennsylvania ($1.52 billion), North Carolina ($1.50 billion), New York ($1.33 billion), Illinois ($1.32 billion), Ohio ($1.23 billion), and Tennessee ($1.15 billion).
These cost findings are based on 2005 data, which is the most recent year for which comprehensive data on costs associated with crash deaths is available. The study was not configured to develop an explanation for the variation in state costs..."
Office of the Director of National Intelligence. 2010 Data Mining Report. January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010
"The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) provides this report pursuant to
Section 804 of the Implementing the Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007,
entitled The Federal Agency Data Mining Reporting Act of 2007 (Data Mining Reporting Act).
A. Scope.
This report covers the activities of all ODNI components from January 1, 2010 through
December 31, 2010. Constituent elements of the Intelligence Community (IC) will report their activities to Congress through their own departments or agencies..."
"The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) provides this report pursuant to
Section 804 of the Implementing the Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007,
entitled The Federal Agency Data Mining Reporting Act of 2007 (Data Mining Reporting Act).
A. Scope.
This report covers the activities of all ODNI components from January 1, 2010 through
December 31, 2010. Constituent elements of the Intelligence Community (IC) will report their activities to Congress through their own departments or agencies..."
Survey of Business Owners, 2007
Find business ownership data by gender, race, ethnicity and veteran status.
Find business ownership data by gender, race, ethnicity and veteran status.
Friday, May 13, 2011
FDA is Warning Pet Owners on the Dangers of Xylitol Ingestion in Dogs and Ferrets
"The Food and Drug Administration is cautioning consumers about the risks associated with the accidental consumption of xylitol by dogs and ferrets. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol approved for use in many common products, including sugar-free baked goods, candy, oral hygiene products, and chewing gum.
Xylitol can be found in many over-the-counter drugs such as chewable vitamins and throat lozenges and sprays. It can also be purchased in bulk bags for use in home baking. These products are intended only for human use.
FDA is aware of complaints involving dogs that experienced illness associated with the accidental consumption of xylitol. Xylitol is safe for humans but it can be harmful to dogs and ferrets.
FDA is advising consumers to always read the label on products and to not presume that a product that is safe for humans is safe for your pet..."
"The Food and Drug Administration is cautioning consumers about the risks associated with the accidental consumption of xylitol by dogs and ferrets. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol approved for use in many common products, including sugar-free baked goods, candy, oral hygiene products, and chewing gum.
Xylitol can be found in many over-the-counter drugs such as chewable vitamins and throat lozenges and sprays. It can also be purchased in bulk bags for use in home baking. These products are intended only for human use.
FDA is aware of complaints involving dogs that experienced illness associated with the accidental consumption of xylitol. Xylitol is safe for humans but it can be harmful to dogs and ferrets.
FDA is advising consumers to always read the label on products and to not presume that a product that is safe for humans is safe for your pet..."
The CostEffectiveness of Nuclear Power for Navy Surface Ships
"In recent years, the Congress has shown interest in powering some of the Navy’s future
destroyers and amphibious warfare ships with nuclear rather than conventional (petroleumbased) fuel. At the request of the former Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces of the House Committee on Armed Services, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has estimated the difference in life-cycle costs (the total costs incurred for a ship, from acquisition through operations to disposal) between powering those new surface ships with nuclear reactors and equipping them with conventional engines..."
"In recent years, the Congress has shown interest in powering some of the Navy’s future
destroyers and amphibious warfare ships with nuclear rather than conventional (petroleumbased) fuel. At the request of the former Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces of the House Committee on Armed Services, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has estimated the difference in life-cycle costs (the total costs incurred for a ship, from acquisition through operations to disposal) between powering those new surface ships with nuclear reactors and equipping them with conventional engines..."
Census Bureau Releases 2010 Census Demographic Profiles for Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico and Wisconsin
"The U.S. Census Bureau today[5/12/11] released the Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 for Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico and Wisconsin. The demographic profiles provide 2010 Census data on age and sex distributions, race, Hispanic or Latino origin, household relationship and type, the group quarters population, and housing occupancy and tenure (whether the housing occupant owns or rents). Throughout May, these profiles are being released on a rolling basis for all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
The profile includes more than 150 data items in all, plus percentage distributions..
The demographic profiles can be found on the Census Bureau's American FactFinderwebsite..."
"The U.S. Census Bureau today[5/12/11] released the Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 for Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico and Wisconsin. The demographic profiles provide 2010 Census data on age and sex distributions, race, Hispanic or Latino origin, household relationship and type, the group quarters population, and housing occupancy and tenure (whether the housing occupant owns or rents). Throughout May, these profiles are being released on a rolling basis for all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
The profile includes more than 150 data items in all, plus percentage distributions..
The demographic profiles can be found on the Census Bureau's American FactFinderwebsite..."
Building a 21st Century Immigration System
"Today, President Obama reiterated his deep commitment to fixing the broken immigration system and outlined his vision for a 21st century immigration policy:
• Responsibility by the federal government to secure our borders: Today, our borders are more secure than at any time in the past several decades and the Administration continues to refine and strengthen its strategy. Enforcement resources should be focused on preventing those who would do our nation harm from entering our country.
• Accountability for businesses that break the law by undermining American workers and exploiting undocumented workers: Employers who deliberately hire and exploit undocumented workers must be held accountable. At the same time, we must give employers who want to play by the rules a reliable way to verify that their employees are here legally.
• Strengthening our economic competiveness by creating a legal immigration system
that reflects our values and diverse needs: Our immigration laws should continue to reunify families and encourage individuals we train in our world-class institutions to stay and develop new technologies and industries in the United States rather than abroad. The law should stop punishing innocent young people whose parents brought them here illegally and give those young men and women a chance to stay in this country if they serve in the military or pursue higher education. A smart 21
st century system should also provide farmers a legal way to hire the workers they rely on year after year, and it should improve procedures for employers who
seek to hire foreign workers for jobs if U.S. workers are not available.
• Responsibility from people who are living in the United States illegally: Those people living here illegally must also be held accountable for their actions and get on the right side of the law by registering and undergoing national security and criminal background checks, paying taxes and a penalty, and learning English before they can get in line to become eligible for citizenship. Being a citizen of this country comes not only with rights but also with fundamental responsibilities. We can create a pathway for legal status that is fair and reflects our values.
What follows is an update on the progress we have made in securing our borders, enforcing our laws, and improving our immigration system, a summary of the economic benefits of our proposed immigration reforms, and an outline of the challenges we must tackle and the solutions we must implement if we are to build a 21st
century immigration system..."
"Today, President Obama reiterated his deep commitment to fixing the broken immigration system and outlined his vision for a 21st century immigration policy:
• Responsibility by the federal government to secure our borders: Today, our borders are more secure than at any time in the past several decades and the Administration continues to refine and strengthen its strategy. Enforcement resources should be focused on preventing those who would do our nation harm from entering our country.
• Accountability for businesses that break the law by undermining American workers and exploiting undocumented workers: Employers who deliberately hire and exploit undocumented workers must be held accountable. At the same time, we must give employers who want to play by the rules a reliable way to verify that their employees are here legally.
• Strengthening our economic competiveness by creating a legal immigration system
that reflects our values and diverse needs: Our immigration laws should continue to reunify families and encourage individuals we train in our world-class institutions to stay and develop new technologies and industries in the United States rather than abroad. The law should stop punishing innocent young people whose parents brought them here illegally and give those young men and women a chance to stay in this country if they serve in the military or pursue higher education. A smart 21
st century system should also provide farmers a legal way to hire the workers they rely on year after year, and it should improve procedures for employers who
seek to hire foreign workers for jobs if U.S. workers are not available.
• Responsibility from people who are living in the United States illegally: Those people living here illegally must also be held accountable for their actions and get on the right side of the law by registering and undergoing national security and criminal background checks, paying taxes and a penalty, and learning English before they can get in line to become eligible for citizenship. Being a citizen of this country comes not only with rights but also with fundamental responsibilities. We can create a pathway for legal status that is fair and reflects our values.
What follows is an update on the progress we have made in securing our borders, enforcing our laws, and improving our immigration system, a summary of the economic benefits of our proposed immigration reforms, and an outline of the challenges we must tackle and the solutions we must implement if we are to build a 21st
century immigration system..."
The 2011 HHS Poverty Guidelines
"There are two slightly different versions of the federal poverty measure:
* The poverty thresholds, and
* The poverty guidelines.
The poverty thresholds are the original version of the federal poverty measure. They are updated each year by the Census Bureau (although they were originally developed by Mollie Orshansky of the Social Security Administration). The thresholds are used mainly for statistical purposes — for instance, preparing estimates of the number of Americans in poverty each year. (In other words, all official poverty population figures are calculated using the poverty thresholds, not the guidelines.) Poverty thresholds since 1973 (and for selected earlier years) and weighted average poverty thresholds since 1959 are available on the Census Bureau’s Web site. For an example of how the Census Bureau applies the thresholds to a family’s income to determine its poverty status, see “How the Census Bureau Measures Poverty” on the Census Bureau’s web site.
The poverty guidelines are the other version of the federal poverty measure. They are issued each year in the Federal Register by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The guidelines are a simplification of the poverty thresholds for use for administrative purposes — for instance, determining financial eligibility for certain federal programs. The Federal Register notice of the 2011 poverty guidelines is available."
"There are two slightly different versions of the federal poverty measure:
* The poverty thresholds, and
* The poverty guidelines.
The poverty thresholds are the original version of the federal poverty measure. They are updated each year by the Census Bureau (although they were originally developed by Mollie Orshansky of the Social Security Administration). The thresholds are used mainly for statistical purposes — for instance, preparing estimates of the number of Americans in poverty each year. (In other words, all official poverty population figures are calculated using the poverty thresholds, not the guidelines.) Poverty thresholds since 1973 (and for selected earlier years) and weighted average poverty thresholds since 1959 are available on the Census Bureau’s Web site. For an example of how the Census Bureau applies the thresholds to a family’s income to determine its poverty status, see “How the Census Bureau Measures Poverty” on the Census Bureau’s web site.
The poverty guidelines are the other version of the federal poverty measure. They are issued each year in the Federal Register by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The guidelines are a simplification of the poverty thresholds for use for administrative purposes — for instance, determining financial eligibility for certain federal programs. The Federal Register notice of the 2011 poverty guidelines is available."
Monday, May 9, 2011
Asthma in the US
"Asthma is a lifelong disease that causes wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. It can limit a person's quality of life. While we don't know why asthma rates are rising, we do know that most people with asthma can control their symptoms and prevent asthma attacks by avoiding asthma triggers and correctly using prescribed medicines, such as inhaled corticosteroids.
The number of people diagnosed with asthma grew by 4.3 million from 2001 to 2009. From 2001 through 2009 asthma rates rose the most among black children, almost a 50% increase. Asthma was linked to 3,447 deaths (about 9 per day) in 2007. Asthma costs in the US grew from about $53 billion in 2002 to about $56 billion in 2007, about a 6% increase. Greater access to medical care is needed for the growing number of people with asthma."
"Asthma is a lifelong disease that causes wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. It can limit a person's quality of life. While we don't know why asthma rates are rising, we do know that most people with asthma can control their symptoms and prevent asthma attacks by avoiding asthma triggers and correctly using prescribed medicines, such as inhaled corticosteroids.
The number of people diagnosed with asthma grew by 4.3 million from 2001 to 2009. From 2001 through 2009 asthma rates rose the most among black children, almost a 50% increase. Asthma was linked to 3,447 deaths (about 9 per day) in 2007. Asthma costs in the US grew from about $53 billion in 2002 to about $56 billion in 2007, about a 6% increase. Greater access to medical care is needed for the growing number of people with asthma."
Fish and Fishery Products Hazards and Controls Guidance
"This guidance is intended to assist processors of ish and ishery products in the development of their Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plans. Processors of ish and ishery products will ind information in this guidance that will help them identify hazards that are associated with their products, and help them formulate control strategies. The guidance will help consumers and the public generally to
understand commercial seafood safety in terms of hazards and their controls. The guidance does not speciically address safe handling practices by consumers or by retail establishments, although many of the concepts contained in this guidance
are applicable to both. This guidance is also intended to serve as a tool to be used by federal and state regulatory oficials in the evaluation of HACCP plans for ish and ishery products..."
"This guidance is intended to assist processors of ish and ishery products in the development of their Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plans. Processors of ish and ishery products will ind information in this guidance that will help them identify hazards that are associated with their products, and help them formulate control strategies. The guidance will help consumers and the public generally to
understand commercial seafood safety in terms of hazards and their controls. The guidance does not speciically address safe handling practices by consumers or by retail establishments, although many of the concepts contained in this guidance
are applicable to both. This guidance is also intended to serve as a tool to be used by federal and state regulatory oficials in the evaluation of HACCP plans for ish and ishery products..."
U.S. Department of Transportation Unveils Strong New Measures to Improve Passenger Bus Safety
"U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced several new measures that the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is taking to help ensure that passengers traveling by bus are as safe as possible. The U.S. DOT will now require more rigorous commercial driver’s license testing standards, seek new rules to strengthen passenger carrier and driver compliance with federal safety regulations, and empower consumers to review safety records of bus companies before booking. Standing outside motorcoach buses at Nationals Park in Washington, DC, Secretary LaHood and Administrator Ferro also announced that FMCSA will be teaming up with state law enforcement to conduct unannounced motorcoach inspections at popular travel destinations throughout the spring and summer peak travel season.
“Safety is our number one priority,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “These new requirements we are announcing today will help ensure passengers are safe and that carriers and drivers are in full compliance with federal safety regulations. The public deserves to know that when they board any type of bus or commercial vehicle, they will be delivered to their destination safely.”
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) today issued a new final rule requiring anyone applying for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to first obtain a commercial driver’s learner’s permit (CLP). The rule also requires all state licensing agencies to use a CDL testing system that meets the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators CDL knowledge and skill standards, and prohibits the use of foreign language interpreters to reduce the potential for testing fraud. Prior to this new rule, CDL applicants were not required to first obtain a learner’s permit and CDL testing systems were not uniform nationwide..."
"U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced several new measures that the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is taking to help ensure that passengers traveling by bus are as safe as possible. The U.S. DOT will now require more rigorous commercial driver’s license testing standards, seek new rules to strengthen passenger carrier and driver compliance with federal safety regulations, and empower consumers to review safety records of bus companies before booking. Standing outside motorcoach buses at Nationals Park in Washington, DC, Secretary LaHood and Administrator Ferro also announced that FMCSA will be teaming up with state law enforcement to conduct unannounced motorcoach inspections at popular travel destinations throughout the spring and summer peak travel season.
“Safety is our number one priority,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “These new requirements we are announcing today will help ensure passengers are safe and that carriers and drivers are in full compliance with federal safety regulations. The public deserves to know that when they board any type of bus or commercial vehicle, they will be delivered to their destination safely.”
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) today issued a new final rule requiring anyone applying for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to first obtain a commercial driver’s learner’s permit (CLP). The rule also requires all state licensing agencies to use a CDL testing system that meets the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators CDL knowledge and skill standards, and prohibits the use of foreign language interpreters to reduce the potential for testing fraud. Prior to this new rule, CDL applicants were not required to first obtain a learner’s permit and CDL testing systems were not uniform nationwide..."
Fertility of American Women, 2010
"Data on fertility of American women for the noninstitutionalized population are collected biannually in the June Current Population Survey (CPS) for the Nation. Detailed information from recent surveys and historical trends in selected tables are listed below. Data on children ever born and mothers’ age at last birth are collected for women 15 to 44 years old arom 1971 to present and are available at the national level. These data are the best source for historical trends in fertility. (Note: Reports from 1997 to present are currently on-line)..."
"Data on fertility of American women for the noninstitutionalized population are collected biannually in the June Current Population Survey (CPS) for the Nation. Detailed information from recent surveys and historical trends in selected tables are listed below. Data on children ever born and mothers’ age at last birth are collected for women 15 to 44 years old arom 1971 to present and are available at the national level. These data are the best source for historical trends in fertility. (Note: Reports from 1997 to present are currently on-line)..."
Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics
"The U.S. Census Bureau today released the Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 for the District of Columbia, Florida, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia. The demographic profiles provide 2010 Census data on age and sex distributions, race, Hispanic or Latino origin, household relationship and type, the group quarters population, and housing occupancy and tenure (whether the housing occupant owns or rents). Throughout May, these profiles are being released on a rolling basis for all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
The profile includes more than 150 data items in all, plus percentage distributions...
"The U.S. Census Bureau today released the Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 for the District of Columbia, Florida, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia. The demographic profiles provide 2010 Census data on age and sex distributions, race, Hispanic or Latino origin, household relationship and type, the group quarters population, and housing occupancy and tenure (whether the housing occupant owns or rents). Throughout May, these profiles are being released on a rolling basis for all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
The profile includes more than 150 data items in all, plus percentage distributions...
Saturday, May 7, 2011
State of the Birds 2011
"This year’s report provides the nation’s first assessment of the distribution of birds on public lands and helps public agencies identify which species have significant potential for conservation in each habitat. The state of our birds is a measurable indicator of how well we are doing as stewards of our environment. The signal is clear. Greater conservation efforts on public lands and waters are needed to realize the vision of a nation sustained economically and spiritually by abundant natural resources and spectacular wildlife..."
"This year’s report provides the nation’s first assessment of the distribution of birds on public lands and helps public agencies identify which species have significant potential for conservation in each habitat. The state of our birds is a measurable indicator of how well we are doing as stewards of our environment. The signal is clear. Greater conservation efforts on public lands and waters are needed to realize the vision of a nation sustained economically and spiritually by abundant natural resources and spectacular wildlife..."
Saving Money by Selling Excess Property
"As we look at our fiscal situation, the President understands that the Federal Government must do what American families are doing all across the country: find ways to live within our means and invest in the future. That means cracking down on waste and getting the most from taxpayer dollars.
Since President Obama took office, we’ve made unprecedented progress in reforming the way Washington works - saving billions of taxpayer dollars through IT reform, cut contracting spending, and eliminated duplicative and ineffective programs.
In his State of the Union address, the President discussed another area that is ripe for savings and reform -- the real estate footprint of the Federal government. For too long, the American people’s hard-earned tax dollars have gone to waste, funding empty buildings and holding on to valuable properties the government no longer needs. That is something that shouldn’t be tolerated at any time, but especially with this challenging fiscal environment, it’s unacceptable.
Today, we’re sending legislation to the Hill that will cut through red tape and politics to rid the government of the burden of excess property and save taxpayers at least $15 billion. We look forward to working with members of Congress to pass this legislation, the Civilian Property Realignment Act..."
"As we look at our fiscal situation, the President understands that the Federal Government must do what American families are doing all across the country: find ways to live within our means and invest in the future. That means cracking down on waste and getting the most from taxpayer dollars.
Since President Obama took office, we’ve made unprecedented progress in reforming the way Washington works - saving billions of taxpayer dollars through IT reform, cut contracting spending, and eliminated duplicative and ineffective programs.
In his State of the Union address, the President discussed another area that is ripe for savings and reform -- the real estate footprint of the Federal government. For too long, the American people’s hard-earned tax dollars have gone to waste, funding empty buildings and holding on to valuable properties the government no longer needs. That is something that shouldn’t be tolerated at any time, but especially with this challenging fiscal environment, it’s unacceptable.
Today, we’re sending legislation to the Hill that will cut through red tape and politics to rid the government of the burden of excess property and save taxpayers at least $15 billion. We look forward to working with members of Congress to pass this legislation, the Civilian Property Realignment Act..."
Thursday, May 5, 2011
3 Ways for Tornado Survivors to Apply for Assistance
"The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working hard to provide shelter, food, and water for people whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged by tornadoes last week.
If you need help, there are three ways to apply for assistance:
Register online at www.disasterassistance.gov
Register through a web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov
Call 1-800-621-FEMA(3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.
If you are in touch with anyone affected by the tornadoes, please share this information with them.."
"The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working hard to provide shelter, food, and water for people whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged by tornadoes last week.
If you need help, there are three ways to apply for assistance:
Register online at www.disasterassistance.gov
Register through a web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov
Call 1-800-621-FEMA(3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.
If you are in touch with anyone affected by the tornadoes, please share this information with them.."
Iraq: Politics, Governance, and Human Rights
"Iraq’s political system is increasingly characterized by peaceful competition and formation of
cross-sectarian alliances, although ethnic and sectarian infighting continues, sometimes involving
the questionable use of key levers of power and legal institutions. This infighting—and the belief
that holding political power may mean the difference between life and death for the various
political communities—significantly delayed agreement on a new government that was to be
selected following the March 7, 2010, national elections for the Council of Representatives
(COR, parliament). With U.S. diplomatic intervention, on November 10, 2010, major ethnic and
sectarian factions agreed on a framework for a new government, breaking the long deadlock.
Their agreement, under which Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki serves a second term, was
implemented in the formation of a broad-based cabinet on December 21, 2010..."
"Iraq’s political system is increasingly characterized by peaceful competition and formation of
cross-sectarian alliances, although ethnic and sectarian infighting continues, sometimes involving
the questionable use of key levers of power and legal institutions. This infighting—and the belief
that holding political power may mean the difference between life and death for the various
political communities—significantly delayed agreement on a new government that was to be
selected following the March 7, 2010, national elections for the Council of Representatives
(COR, parliament). With U.S. diplomatic intervention, on November 10, 2010, major ethnic and
sectarian factions agreed on a framework for a new government, breaking the long deadlock.
Their agreement, under which Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki serves a second term, was
implemented in the formation of a broad-based cabinet on December 21, 2010..."
Census Bureau Reports the Number of Asian-Owned Businesses Increased at More Than Twice the National Rate
"The number of U.S. businesses owned by people of Asian origin increased 40.4 percent to 1.5 million between 2002 and 2007, increasing at more than twice the national rate, according to U.S. Census Bureau data released today. These businesses also generated $507.6 billion in receipts, a 55.4 percent increase from 2002.
“Asian-owned businesses continued to be one of the strongest segments of our nation's economy, bringing in more than half a trillion dollars in sales in 2007 and employing more than 2.8 million people,” said Census Bureau Deputy Director Thomas Mesenbourg.
These new data come from the Survey of Business Owners: Asian-Owned Businesses: 2007. The survey provides detailed information every five years for Asian-owned businesses, including the number of firms, sales and receipts, number of paid employees and annual payroll.
The survey also presents data by geographic area (nation, state, county, city and metro area), industry and size of business. The data cover businesses owned by seven Asian groups — people of Asian Indian, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese and other Asian origin. Preliminary national and state data were released in July 2010..."
"The number of U.S. businesses owned by people of Asian origin increased 40.4 percent to 1.5 million between 2002 and 2007, increasing at more than twice the national rate, according to U.S. Census Bureau data released today. These businesses also generated $507.6 billion in receipts, a 55.4 percent increase from 2002.
“Asian-owned businesses continued to be one of the strongest segments of our nation's economy, bringing in more than half a trillion dollars in sales in 2007 and employing more than 2.8 million people,” said Census Bureau Deputy Director Thomas Mesenbourg.
These new data come from the Survey of Business Owners: Asian-Owned Businesses: 2007. The survey provides detailed information every five years for Asian-owned businesses, including the number of firms, sales and receipts, number of paid employees and annual payroll.
The survey also presents data by geographic area (nation, state, county, city and metro area), industry and size of business. The data cover businesses owned by seven Asian groups — people of Asian Indian, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese and other Asian origin. Preliminary national and state data were released in July 2010..."
Free Tools to Protect Health as Summer Smog Season Begins
"May 2, 2011) – Today is the beginning of Air Quality Awareness Week, a cooperative effort among EPA, state environmental agencies and the National Weather Service to remind the public to protect their health by paying attention to local air quality. With the onset of warmer weather, the EPA urges New Englanders to be aware of the increased risk of ground-level ozone air pollution and fine particle air pollution (when combined, often referred to as smog), and take health precautions when poor air quality is predicted.
Air quality forecasts are issued daily by the New England state air agencies. Current air quality conditions and next day forecasts for New England are available each day at EPA’s web site. People can also sign up to receive “Air Quality Alerts.” These alerts, provided free by EPA through the EnviroFlash system, automatically notify participants by e-mail or text message when poor air quality is predicted in their area..."
See Air Quality Awareness Week web site.
"May 2, 2011) – Today is the beginning of Air Quality Awareness Week, a cooperative effort among EPA, state environmental agencies and the National Weather Service to remind the public to protect their health by paying attention to local air quality. With the onset of warmer weather, the EPA urges New Englanders to be aware of the increased risk of ground-level ozone air pollution and fine particle air pollution (when combined, often referred to as smog), and take health precautions when poor air quality is predicted.
Air quality forecasts are issued daily by the New England state air agencies. Current air quality conditions and next day forecasts for New England are available each day at EPA’s web site. People can also sign up to receive “Air Quality Alerts.” These alerts, provided free by EPA through the EnviroFlash system, automatically notify participants by e-mail or text message when poor air quality is predicted in their area..."
See Air Quality Awareness Week web site.
FTC Staff Report Finds 60 Percent Increase in Pharmaceutical Industry Deals That Delay Consumers' Access to Lower-Cost Generic Drugs
"Pharmaceutical companies struck an unprecedented number of deals in Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 in which the manufacturers of branded products paid potential generic rivals and generic companies agreed to defer the introduction of lower-cost medicines for American consumers, according to an overview of industry data released by the staff of the Federal Trade Commission.
The FTC staff report found that the number of these deals skyrocketed more than 60 percent, from 19 in FY 2009 to 31 in FY 2010. Overall, the agreements reached in the latest fiscal year involved 22 different brand-name pharmaceutical products with combined annual U.S. sales of about $9.3 billion..."
"Pharmaceutical companies struck an unprecedented number of deals in Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 in which the manufacturers of branded products paid potential generic rivals and generic companies agreed to defer the introduction of lower-cost medicines for American consumers, according to an overview of industry data released by the staff of the Federal Trade Commission.
The FTC staff report found that the number of these deals skyrocketed more than 60 percent, from 19 in FY 2009 to 31 in FY 2010. Overall, the agreements reached in the latest fiscal year involved 22 different brand-name pharmaceutical products with combined annual U.S. sales of about $9.3 billion..."
The Underfunding of State and Local Pension Plan
From: Economic and Budget Issue Brief, May 2011.
"The recent financial crisis and economic recession have left many states and localities with extraordinary budgetary difficulties for the next few years, but structural shortfalls in their pension plans pose a problem that is likely to endure for much longer. This issue brief discusses alternative approaches to assessing the size of those shortfalls and the implications of those approaches for funding decisions:
By any measure, nearly all state and local pension plans are underfunded, which means that the value of the plans’ assets is less than their accrued pension liabilities for current workers and retirees.
There are two leading approaches for valuing assets and liabilities, and the reported amount of underfunding varies significantly depending on which one is used.
Decisions about how to address the underfunding can be informed by the choice between those two
measurement approaches, but there is no necessary connection between the information provided by the two approaches and decisions about how much a plan’s sponsor should contribute each year.."
From: Economic and Budget Issue Brief, May 2011.
"The recent financial crisis and economic recession have left many states and localities with extraordinary budgetary difficulties for the next few years, but structural shortfalls in their pension plans pose a problem that is likely to endure for much longer. This issue brief discusses alternative approaches to assessing the size of those shortfalls and the implications of those approaches for funding decisions:
By any measure, nearly all state and local pension plans are underfunded, which means that the value of the plans’ assets is less than their accrued pension liabilities for current workers and retirees.
There are two leading approaches for valuing assets and liabilities, and the reported amount of underfunding varies significantly depending on which one is used.
Decisions about how to address the underfunding can be informed by the choice between those two
measurement approaches, but there is no necessary connection between the information provided by the two approaches and decisions about how much a plan’s sponsor should contribute each year.."
More Working Women Than Men Have College Degrees, Census Bureau Reports
"Among the employed population 25 and older, 37 percent of women had attained a bachelor's degree or more as of 2010, compared with 35 percent of men, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau. In contrast, among all adults 25 and older, 29.6 percent of women and 30.3 percent of men had at least a bachelor's degree.
The data come from tabulations on Educational Attainment in the United States: 2010 and not only examine gender differences in attainment but also provide the most detailed information on years of school completed ever presented by the Census Bureau, showing for each level of attainment exactly how many years of education adults have.
"The tabulations permit one to see not only the broad levels of educational attainment adults experienced, but also, for instance, if they did not receive a high school diploma, the specific level of schooling they did reach," said Sonia Collazo, a Census Bureau demographer.
In 2010, 36 percent of the nation's population 25 and older left school before obtaining a degree. This includes 15 percent of the population that didn't earn a regular high school diploma — a group sometimes labeled "dropouts." Among this group were about 1 percent of the population who reached the 12th grade, 2 percent who reached the 11th grade but still did not graduate, and 2 percent who earned a GED..."
"Among the employed population 25 and older, 37 percent of women had attained a bachelor's degree or more as of 2010, compared with 35 percent of men, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau. In contrast, among all adults 25 and older, 29.6 percent of women and 30.3 percent of men had at least a bachelor's degree.
The data come from tabulations on Educational Attainment in the United States: 2010 and not only examine gender differences in attainment but also provide the most detailed information on years of school completed ever presented by the Census Bureau, showing for each level of attainment exactly how many years of education adults have.
"The tabulations permit one to see not only the broad levels of educational attainment adults experienced, but also, for instance, if they did not receive a high school diploma, the specific level of schooling they did reach," said Sonia Collazo, a Census Bureau demographer.
In 2010, 36 percent of the nation's population 25 and older left school before obtaining a degree. This includes 15 percent of the population that didn't earn a regular high school diploma — a group sometimes labeled "dropouts." Among this group were about 1 percent of the population who reached the 12th grade, 2 percent who reached the 11th grade but still did not graduate, and 2 percent who earned a GED..."
Monday, May 2, 2011
Noncitizen Eligibility for Federal Public Assistance: Policy Overview and Trends
"The extent to which residents of the United States who are not U.S. citizens should be eligible for federally funded public aid has been a contentious issue for more than a decade. This issue meets at the intersection of two major policy areas: immigration policy and welfare policy. The eligibility of noncitizens for public assistance programs is based on a complex set of rules that are determined largely by the type of noncitizen in question and the nature of services being offered.
Over the past 15 years, Congress has enacted significant changes in U.S. immigration policy and welfare policy. Congress has exercised oversight of revisions made by the 1996 welfare reform law (the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act, P.L. 104-193)—including the rules governing noncitizen eligibility for public assistance that it established—and legislation covering programs with major restrictions on noncitizens’ eligibility (e.g., food
stamps/SNAP, Medicaid).
This report deals with the four major federal means-tested benefit programs: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps), the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant programs, and Medicaid. Laws in place for the past 15 years restrict the eligibility of legal permanent residents (LPRs), refugees, asylees, and other noncitizens for most means-tested public aid. Noncitizens’ eligibility for major federal means-tested benefits largely depends on their immigration status;
whether they arrived (or were on a program’s rolls) before August 22, 1996, the enactment date of P.L. 104-193; and how long they have lived and worked in the United States.."
"The extent to which residents of the United States who are not U.S. citizens should be eligible for federally funded public aid has been a contentious issue for more than a decade. This issue meets at the intersection of two major policy areas: immigration policy and welfare policy. The eligibility of noncitizens for public assistance programs is based on a complex set of rules that are determined largely by the type of noncitizen in question and the nature of services being offered.
Over the past 15 years, Congress has enacted significant changes in U.S. immigration policy and welfare policy. Congress has exercised oversight of revisions made by the 1996 welfare reform law (the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act, P.L. 104-193)—including the rules governing noncitizen eligibility for public assistance that it established—and legislation covering programs with major restrictions on noncitizens’ eligibility (e.g., food
stamps/SNAP, Medicaid).
This report deals with the four major federal means-tested benefit programs: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps), the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant programs, and Medicaid. Laws in place for the past 15 years restrict the eligibility of legal permanent residents (LPRs), refugees, asylees, and other noncitizens for most means-tested public aid. Noncitizens’ eligibility for major federal means-tested benefits largely depends on their immigration status;
whether they arrived (or were on a program’s rolls) before August 22, 1996, the enactment date of P.L. 104-193; and how long they have lived and worked in the United States.."
BLUEPRINT FOR A SECURE ENERGY FUTURE
"Rising prices at the pump affect everybody – workers and farmers; truck drivers and restaurant owners. Businesses see it impact their bottom line. Families feel the pinch when they fill up their tank. For Americans already struggling to get by, it makes life that much harder. Demand for oil in countries like China and India is only growing, and the price of oil will continue to rise with it. That’s why we need to make ourselves more secure and control our energy future by harnessing all of the
resources that we have available and embracing a diverse energy portfolio.
Every president since Richard Nixon has called for America’s independence from oil, but Washington gridlock has prevented action again and again. If we want to create a more secure energy future, and protect consumers at the pump, that has to change. When President Obama took office, America imported 11 million barrels of oil a day. Today, he pledged that by a little more than a decade from now, we will have cut that by one-third, and put forward a plan to secure America’s energy future by producing more oil at home and reducing our dependence on oil by leveraging cleaner, alternative fuels and greater efficiency..."
"Rising prices at the pump affect everybody – workers and farmers; truck drivers and restaurant owners. Businesses see it impact their bottom line. Families feel the pinch when they fill up their tank. For Americans already struggling to get by, it makes life that much harder. Demand for oil in countries like China and India is only growing, and the price of oil will continue to rise with it. That’s why we need to make ourselves more secure and control our energy future by harnessing all of the
resources that we have available and embracing a diverse energy portfolio.
Every president since Richard Nixon has called for America’s independence from oil, but Washington gridlock has prevented action again and again. If we want to create a more secure energy future, and protect consumers at the pump, that has to change. When President Obama took office, America imported 11 million barrels of oil a day. Today, he pledged that by a little more than a decade from now, we will have cut that by one-third, and put forward a plan to secure America’s energy future by producing more oil at home and reducing our dependence on oil by leveraging cleaner, alternative fuels and greater efficiency..."
Clean Water:Foundation of Healthy Communities and a Healthy Environment
"Recognizing the importance of clean water for healthy people, a healthy economy, and a healthy environment, the Obama Administration is working hard on a broad array of programs and initiatives to protect and enhance the Nation’s waters. The purpose of this document is to highlight important, ongoing initiatives at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Department of the Interior (DOI), together with their other Federal partners, to protect our vital water resources. It also shows some important new initiatives, including updated draft guidance regarding Clean Water Act jurisdiction and modernization of the Principles and Guidelines which guide Federal investments in water resources. Taken together, these actions demonstrate a strong commitment by the Obama Administration to build on past progress and work with state, local and tribal governments, communities, and other private and not-forprofit partners across the Nation to design and deploy innovative approaches that directly address today’s clean water challenges..."
"Recognizing the importance of clean water for healthy people, a healthy economy, and a healthy environment, the Obama Administration is working hard on a broad array of programs and initiatives to protect and enhance the Nation’s waters. The purpose of this document is to highlight important, ongoing initiatives at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Department of the Interior (DOI), together with their other Federal partners, to protect our vital water resources. It also shows some important new initiatives, including updated draft guidance regarding Clean Water Act jurisdiction and modernization of the Principles and Guidelines which guide Federal investments in water resources. Taken together, these actions demonstrate a strong commitment by the Obama Administration to build on past progress and work with state, local and tribal governments, communities, and other private and not-forprofit partners across the Nation to design and deploy innovative approaches that directly address today’s clean water challenges..."
Interior Releases Report Highlighting Impacts of Climate Change to Western Water Resources
"Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today released a report that assesses climate change risks and how these risks could impact water operations, hydropower, flood control, and fish and wildlife in the western United States. The report to Congress, prepared by Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation, represents the first consistent and coordinated assessment of risks to future water supplies across eight major Reclamation river basins, including the Colorado, Rio Grande and Missouri river basins.
“Water is the lifeblood of our communities, rural and urban economies, and our environment,” said Secretary Salazar, “and small changes in water supplies or the timing of precipitation can have a big impact on all of us. This report provides the foundation for understanding the long-term impacts of climate change on Western water supplies and will help us identify and implement appropriate mitigation and adaptation strategies for sustainable water resource management.”
The report, which responds to requirements under the SECURE Water Act of 2009, shows several increased risks to western United States water resources during the 21st century. Specific projections include:
a temperature increase of 5-7 degrees Fahrenheit;
a precipitation increase over the northwestern and north-central portions of the western United States and a decrease over the southwestern and south-central areas;
a decrease for almost all of the April 1st snowpack, a standard benchmark measurement used to project river basin runoff; and
an 8 to 20 percent decrease in average annual stream flow in several river basins, including the Colorado, the Rio Grande, and the San Joaquin...."
"Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today released a report that assesses climate change risks and how these risks could impact water operations, hydropower, flood control, and fish and wildlife in the western United States. The report to Congress, prepared by Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation, represents the first consistent and coordinated assessment of risks to future water supplies across eight major Reclamation river basins, including the Colorado, Rio Grande and Missouri river basins.
“Water is the lifeblood of our communities, rural and urban economies, and our environment,” said Secretary Salazar, “and small changes in water supplies or the timing of precipitation can have a big impact on all of us. This report provides the foundation for understanding the long-term impacts of climate change on Western water supplies and will help us identify and implement appropriate mitigation and adaptation strategies for sustainable water resource management.”
The report, which responds to requirements under the SECURE Water Act of 2009, shows several increased risks to western United States water resources during the 21st century. Specific projections include:
a temperature increase of 5-7 degrees Fahrenheit;
a precipitation increase over the northwestern and north-central portions of the western United States and a decrease over the southwestern and south-central areas;
a decrease for almost all of the April 1st snowpack, a standard benchmark measurement used to project river basin runoff; and
an 8 to 20 percent decrease in average annual stream flow in several river basins, including the Colorado, the Rio Grande, and the San Joaquin...."
ANNUAL ENERGY OUTLOOK - 2011
Annual energy forecasts from the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Information Administration.
Annual energy forecasts from the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Information Administration.
BLS Mobile Service
"In our never-ending quest to provide the American public with the latest labor economics and statistics data no matter where they are, we are introducing a mobile version of the BLS homepage. The mobile homepage is designed to give our visitors a quick view of the latest BLS statistical products such as the latest numbers data, links to our most recent economic releases and more. The BLS mobile service places today’s rapidly changing economic information in the palm of your hand. We value your feedback, so send us your comments and let us know what you would like to see in an expanded BLS Mobile site."
"In our never-ending quest to provide the American public with the latest labor economics and statistics data no matter where they are, we are introducing a mobile version of the BLS homepage. The mobile homepage is designed to give our visitors a quick view of the latest BLS statistical products such as the latest numbers data, links to our most recent economic releases and more. The BLS mobile service places today’s rapidly changing economic information in the palm of your hand. We value your feedback, so send us your comments and let us know what you would like to see in an expanded BLS Mobile site."
EPA Launches New Strategy to Promote Use of Green Infrastructure for Environmental and Economic Benefits
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching a new strategy to promote the use of green infrastructure by cities and towns to reduce stormwater runoff that pollutes our nation’s streams, creeks, rivers, lakes and coastal waters. Green infrastructure decreases pollution to local waterways by treating rain where it falls and keeping polluted stormwater from entering sewer systems. In addition to protecting Americans’ health by decreasing water pollution, green infrastructure provides many community benefits including increased economic activity and neighborhood revitalization, job creation, energy savings and increased recreational and green space..."
See the green infrastructure agenda
"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching a new strategy to promote the use of green infrastructure by cities and towns to reduce stormwater runoff that pollutes our nation’s streams, creeks, rivers, lakes and coastal waters. Green infrastructure decreases pollution to local waterways by treating rain where it falls and keeping polluted stormwater from entering sewer systems. In addition to protecting Americans’ health by decreasing water pollution, green infrastructure provides many community benefits including increased economic activity and neighborhood revitalization, job creation, energy savings and increased recreational and green space..."
See the green infrastructure agenda
Redistricting in Wisconsin - Redrawing the Line
A discussion of redistricting in Wisconsin from the Spring 2011 #18 issue of Population Notes, UW-Madison, Applied Population Laboratory, Dept. of Community and Environmental Sociology.
A discussion of redistricting in Wisconsin from the Spring 2011 #18 issue of Population Notes, UW-Madison, Applied Population Laboratory, Dept. of Community and Environmental Sociology.
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