- The Justice Department is investigating the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City, which has operated as a migrant shelter since 2022. The DOJ is also investigating a homeless shelter at the Chandler Hotel.
- Federal prosecutors have issued a subpoena seeking details on the migrants staying there. The details include personal information and funding sources, amid concerns of potential immigration law violations.
- To date, New York City has spent over $7 billion on housing and food for migrants.
Full Story
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is investigating a New York City hotel that operates as a migrant shelter, according to multiple reports. The U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York issued a subpoena to the Roosevelt Hotel, which has been functioning as a migrant shelter since 2022 when New York City first saw an influx of migrants.
More than 230,000 migrants have arrived in New York City since August 2022.
Federal prosecutors want the hotel to provide “a list of full names of aliens” currently residing at the hotel. Additional, federal prosecutors are asking for their country of origin, identification numbers and dates of birth.
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Prosecutors are seeking additional details on funding sources, alleging a violation of immigration law, according to Fox 5 New York. The specifics of the alleged violation remain unclear.
The DOJ is also looking into the Chandler Hotel, which currently operates as a homeless shelter, according to reports.
New York City officials had not received any subpoenas as of Wednesday morning, March 12, according to The New York Times.
The city signed multimillion-dollar contracts with more than 100 hotels to house over 230,000 migrants as asylum seekers began arriving in New York City. City Hall has spent more than $7 billion on shelter and food for migrants.
A spokesperson for the mayor’s office released a statement saying, “We cannot comment on any type of federal investigation.”
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In February, the Trump administration rescinded $80 million in FEMA funds allocated to New York City to help manage those seeking asylum. The administration cites alleged concerns over gang and criminal activity at the Roosevelt Hotel.
In response, New York City sued the Trump administration to recover the funds. However, a federal judge blocked that request.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in February that the Roosevelt Hotel will stop housing migrants by June.
THE JUSTICE DEPARTMENT IS INVESTIGATING A HOTEL OPERATING AS MIGRANT SHELTER IN NEW YORK CITY, ACCORDING TO MULTIPLE REPORTS.
THE U.S. ATTORNEY FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK SENT A SUBPOENA TO THE ROOSEVELT HOTEL, WHICH HAS BEEN OPERATING AS A MIGRANT SHELTER SINCE 2022 WHEN NEW YORK CITY FIRST EXPERIENCED AN INFLUX OF MIGRANTS.
MORE THAN 230-THOUSAND MIGRANTS ARRIVED IN NEW YORK CITY SINCE AUGUST 2022.
FEDERAL PROSECUTORS WANT THE HOTEL TO PROVIDE “A LIST OF FULL NAMES OF ALIENS CURRENTLY RESIDING,” THERE – INCLUDING THEIR COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, ID NUMBERS AND THEIR DATES OF BIRTH.
THE DOJ IS ALSO LOOKING INTO THE CHANDLER HOTEL WHICH CURRENTLY OPERATES AS A HOMELESS SHELTER, ACCORDING TO REPORTS.
PROSECUTORS ARE ALSO SEEKING DETAILS ON FUNDING SOURCES, ALLEGING A VIOLATION OF IMMIGRATION LAW, ACCORDING TO FOX 5 NEW YORK.
DETAILS ON THE ALLEGED VIOLATION ARE UNKNOWN.
NEW YORK CITY OFFICIALS HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY TYPE OF SUBPOENA AS OF WEDNESDAY MORNING, ACCORDING TO THE NEW YORK TIMES.
THE CITY SIGNED MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR CONTRACTS WITH MORE THAN 100 HOTELS TO HOUSE MORE THAN 230,000 MIGRANTS WHEN ASYLUM SEEKERS BEGAN ARRIVING IN NEW YORK CITY. CITY HALL SPENT MORE THAN $7-BILLION DOLLARS ON MIGRANTS’ SHELTER AND FOOD.
A SPOKESPERSON FOR THE MAYOR’S OFFICE RELEASED A STATEMENT SAYING: “WE CANNOT COMMENT ON ANY TYPE OF FEDERAL INVESTIGATION.”
IN FEBRUARY, THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION RESCINDED $80 MILLION IN FEMA FUNDS ALLOCATED TO NEW YORK CITY TO HELP WITH THE ASYLUM SEEKER CRISIS – OVER CONCERNS OF GANG AND CRIMINAL ACTIVITY AT THE ROOSEVELT HOTEL.
IN RESPONSE, NEW YORK CITY SUED THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO GET THE FUNDS BACK AND A FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKED THAT REQUEST.
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- DHS reports that detention centers across the U.S., which boast a total capacity of 47,600, are full. Since Trump took office in January, nearly 33,000 people have been detained. They include convicted criminals and those with pending criminal cases.
- DHS is working with other federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, to help manage the growing number of detainees.
- The Trump administration resumed family detention, a policy paused during the Biden administration.
Full Story
As President Donald Trump’s administration continues to push forward with its deportation orders, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official reports that detention centers across the nation are now at capacity. DHS officials said the total capacity for detention centers in the U.S. is 47,600 and that ongoing detention efforts have filled those beds.
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Increase in detention efforts
Since Trump’s first day in office on Jan. 20, DHS reports immigration officials have detained nearly 33,000 people. Between Jan. 20 and March 10, more than 14,000 were convicted criminals, while nearly 10,000 have pending criminal cases. Meanwhile, authorities arrested 8,700 others for immigration violations.
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Federal agencies collaborate to address capacity issues
To address the growing strain on the country’s detention centers, DHS said it is working with other federal agencies, including the Department of Defense (DOD) and the federal prison system. In a statement to NBC News, acting director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Todd Lyons, said the focus of his agency’s enforcement operations are removing criminals while deterring illegal immigration.
“These ICE enforcement operations are not only removing criminals from American communities, but they are also discouraging people from coming to our country illegally,” Lyons said, adding, “We expect these ICE arrests and removal numbers will only go up as we unleash an agency that has had its hands tied behind its back for the past four years.”
Alternative detention program, family detention
DHS has been utilizing ICE’s alternative detention program to alleviate the strain on facilities, allowing for the release of individuals on medical or humanitarian grounds. While federal agencies work to secure more detention space, the Trump administration is resuming a policy paused under former President Joe Biden: the detention of families who enter or live in the country illegally.
RAICES, a nonprofit organization serving families near San Antonio, Texas, told the Associated Press 14 families were recently held in a detention facility. Many of the families have children, some as young as 1 year old. According to RAICES, immigration authorities detained the families near both the Mexican and Canadian borders, with some families having spent just 20 days in the U.S., while others have been here for around 10 years.
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Private contractors managing family detention centers
GEO Group and CoreCivic, two private contractors, manage the two facilities designated for family detention in Texas. These facilities, under contracts with ICE, will allow immigration officials to hold families.
DHS has not provided an official number of individuals deported under Trump’s plan to remove all people living in the U.S. illegally.
Tags: Department of Homeland Security, Immigrant, Immigration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Migrant children, migrants, Texas
[Kalé Carey]
AS PRESIDENT TRUMP’S ADMINISTRATION PUSHES FORWARD WITH IMMIGRATION DEPORTATION ORDERS, A DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY OFFICIAL SAYS DETENTION CENTERS ARE NOW AT CAPACITY.
DETENTION CENTERS ACROSS THE NATION CAN HOLD A TOTAL OF 47,600 PEOPLE.
SINCE TRUMP’S FIRST DAY IN OFFICE, D-H-S TOLD REPORTS THIS WEEK IMMIGRATION OFFICIALS HAVE DETAINED CLOSE TO 33,000 INDIVIDUALS.
BETWEEN JANUARY 20TH AND MARCH 10TH–OFFICIALS SAY MORE THAN 14 THOUSAND CONVICTED CRIMINALS WERE ARRESTED WHILE CLOSE TO 10 THOUSAND HAVE PENDING CRIMINAL CASES.
ABOUT 87 HUNDRED OTHERS WERE ARRESTED BASED ON VIOLATIONS RELATED TO IMMIGRATION.
DHS SAYS THEY ARE WORKING WITH OTHER FEDERAL AGENCIES TO HELP WITH CAPACITY ISSUES, LEANING ON THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AND FEDERAL PRISONS AS OPTIONS.
IN A STATEMENT TO NBC NEWS, ACTING ICE DIRECTOR TODD LYONS SAYS, “These ICE enforcement operations are not only removing criminals from the American communities, but they are also discouraging people from coming to our country illegally.”
ADDING, “We expect these ICE arrests and removal numbers will only go up as we unleash an agency that has had its hands tied behind its back for the past four years,”
DHS HAS BEEN USING ICE’S PROGRAM KNOWN AS ALTERNATIVE DETENTION TO HELP ALLEVIATE THE STRAIN ON FACILITIES.
THE AGENCY SAID ONLY INDIVIDUALS WITH MEDICAL OR HUMANITARIAN CONCERNS CAN BE RELEASED.
WHILE FEDERAL AGENCIES WORK TO FIND MORE BEDS, TRUMP’S ADMINISTRATION IS PRESSING PLAY ON A POLICY THAT’S BEEN PAUSED FOR FOUR YEARS.
UNDER BIDEN, FAMILY DETENTION OF UNDOCUMENTED MIGRANTS WAS HALTED.
RAICES, A NONPROFIT SERVING FAMILIES NEAR SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, TOLD THE ASSOCIATED PRESS 14 FAMILIES WERE IN A DETENTION FACILITY.
THE ORGANIZATION SAYS MANY OF THE FAMILIES HAVE CHILDREN WITH THEM—SOME AS YOUNG AS ONE YEAR OLD.
RAICES SAYS IMMIGRATION AUTHORITIES DETAINED THEM NEAR THE MEXICAN AND CANADIAN BORDERS, WITH SOME SPENDING ONLY 20 DAYS IN THE U.S. AND OTHERS 10 YEARS.
GEO GROUP AND CORE CIVIC BOTH MANAGE TWO FACILITIES SLATED FOR FAMILY DETENTION. CONTRACTS WITH ICE WILL ALLOW IMMIGRATION OFFICIALS TO HOLD FAMILIES IN TEXAS.
DHS DIDN’T GIVE AN OFFICIAL NUMBER OF INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE BEEN DEPORTED SINCE TRUMP’S PLAN TO REMOVE ALL PEOPLE LIVING IN THE U-S ILLEGALLY.
FOR STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS, I’M KALÉ CAREY.
FIND MORE FACT BASED STORIES RIGHT NOW ON THE STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS MOBILE APP.
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- The Baltic nations could receive more than a hundred million dollars annually from the United States if a bill introduced by U.S. senators is passed into law. The Baltic Security Initiative Act would make military financial support permanent and increase security cooperation.
- The Baltic countries are Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Geographically, they are NATO’s first line of defense against Russia.
- Since Russia invaded Ukraine, it has committed what are called hybrid attacks throughout Europe, especially in the Baltics.
Full Story
The United States could give Baltic nations more than a hundred million dollars annually if a bill introduced by U.S. senators is passed into law. Sens. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Dick Durbin, D-Ill., introduced the Baltic Security Initiative Act. It would make military financial support permanent and increase security cooperation.
“They are vulnerable; they have stood up for the principles and values of the United States and the NATO alliance, and they are sadly still vulnerable to Putin’s adventurism,” Durbin told Straight Arrow News. “They lived under the yoke of communism in the past, and they want to maintain their own democracy in the future.”
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What comprises the Baltic region?
The Baltic countries are Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Geographically, they are NATO’s first line of defense against Russia. They gained independence from the Soviet Union in the early 1990s.
Combined, they have an active military that’s 48,000 strong, compared to Russia’s 1.5 million.
Congress created the Baltic Security Initiative in 2020. Since then, it has provided the three nations with $802 million for air defense systems, maritime domain awareness and land forces.
Grassley and Durbin said it’s critical to continue that support in the face of Russian aggression.
“Our bipartisan bill will strengthen America’s cooperation with the Baltics and ensure the region has the resources they need to deter Putin from encroaching upon NATO territory,” Grassley stated.
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Since Russia invaded Ukraine, it has committed what are called hybrid attacks throughout Europe, especially in the Baltics. Hybrid attacks include hacking, disinformation campaigns, arson and other forms of sabotage.
Senior NATO leaders are concerned that continuing these types of attacks could cause significant casualties or economic damage.
[Ray]
The Baltic nations could receive more than a hundred million dollars a year annually from the United States if a bill introduced by US Senators is passed into law. Senantors Chuck Grassley and Dick Durbin introduced the Baltic Security Initiative Act to make military financial support permanent and increase security cooperation.
Sen. Dick Durbin, D-IL: “They are vulnerable. They have stood up for the principles and values of the United States and the NATO alliance, and they are sadly still vulnerable to Putin’s adventurism. They lived under the yoke of communism in the past, and they want to maintain their own democracy in the future.”
The Baltic countries are Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Geographically, they are NATO’s first line of defense against Russia. They gained independence from the Soviet Union in the early 1990s.
Combined, they have an active military that’s 48,000 strong, compared to Russia’s 1.5 million.
Congress created the Baltic Security Initiative in 2020 and since that time it has provided the three nations with $802 million for air defense systems, maritime domain awareness, and land forces.
Grassley and Durbin said it’s critical to continue that support in the face of Russian aggression.
“Our bipartisan bill will strengthen America’s cooperation with the Baltics and ensure the region has the resources they need to deter Putin from encroaching upon NATO territory,” Grassley stated.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine, it has committed what are called hybrid attacks throughout Europe but especially in the Baltics. Hybrid attacks include hacking, disinformation campaigns, arson and other forms of sabotage.
Senior NATO leaders are concerned a continuation of these types of attacks could cause significant casualties or economic damage.
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- The Seattle Kraken scored the fastest overtime goal in NHL history Wednesday to beat Montreal, 5-4. Brandon Montour netted the record just four seconds into OT.
- The goal also tied the league record for fastest goal scored at any time during a game.
- Montour had two goals and two assists, notching the Kraken a comeback win after they were two goals down.
Full Story
Barring a miracle run in their final 16 games, the Seattle Kraken will not make the Stanley Cup playoffs. However, Wednesday, March 12, they may have had the best finish to a game by any team, all season.
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Kraken defenseman Brandon Montour scored a goal just four seconds into overtime to beat the Montreal Canadiens, 5-4. The game-winner by Montour tied the NHL record for the fastest goal ever scored and set the mark for the fastest scored in overtime.
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How did the fastest OT goal happen?
The whole scene played out so fast that it was hard to count how many strides Montour took from the center of the ice to the time he let his shot go, but fans barely had time to notice it was overtime before the game was over.
Montour and his teammates gave credit to center Chandler Stephenson for getting the puck ahead to Montour, in what was a predesigned play. The three teammates on the ice discussed the scenario in the moments before the overtime face-off.
“That one can go either way, I’ll tell you that as well, they’re lining three up, we’re lining three up,” Kraken head coach Dan Bylsma said. “Whoever wins that puck forward has a chance for what we got. But it’s on those guys on the ice. They were intelligent enough, smart enough to figure it out and great play by Chandler.”
What was Montour’s reaction?
The understated Montour said the guys were thinking it could have been the fastest score ever but didn’t know until they got to the locker room.
“All credit to Chandler, honestly,” Montour said. “I don’t even know who was beside me there, but I told Chandler to stay back in case anything went south. I saw he bumped it up and we went for it, so it was nice to see that.”
Montour, in his first season with the Kraken, finished with two goals and two assists on the night, notching a two-goal comeback for the team. In the process, he set the team record for points scored in a season by a defenseman.
How will the Kraken respond to the win?
Another milestone in the game came when rookie forward Jani Nyman, making his NHL debut at 20 years old, scored his first goal with his parents, who traveled from Finland, in attendance.
Jordan Eberle, the Kraken’s captain, agreed it was a great night all around, and he’s hoping it leads to something better in the final month of the regular season.
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“I really liked our last three games,” Eberle said. “I think the biggest thing you have to understand is that things get harder, you have to keep putting your foot forward every single night. You can’t be happy with what’s going on.”
Such is life for those playing out the rest of the season. But at least for one night the Kraken created a memory and entered the history books.
Barring a miracle run in their final 16games the Seattle Kraken will not make the Stanley Cup playoffs. Wednesday night however, they may have had the best finish to a game by any team, all season. How about scoring a goal just four seconds into overtime to beat the Montreal Canadiens?!
The game winner by Brandon Montour tied the NHL record for fastest goal ever scored and set the mark for fastest scored in overtime. It happened so fast it’s hard to count how many strides Montour took from the center of the ice to the time he let his shot go but it was ‘game over’ before you could even say those words. Montour and his teammates gave credit to center Chandler Stephenson for getting the puck ahead in what was a predesigned play in the moments before the overtime face off.
“That one can go either way, I’ll tell you that as well, they’re lining three up, we’re lining three up. Whoever wins that puck forward has a chance for what we got. But it’s on those guys on the ice, they were intelligent enough, smart enough to figure it out and great play by Chandler.”
“I don’t even know who was beside me there, but I told Chandler to stay back in case anything went south, I saw he bumped it up and we went for it, so it was nice to see that.”
The understated Montour said the guys were thinking it could have been the fastest score ever but didn’t know until they got to the locker room. He finished with two goals and two assists on the night as the Kraken completed a two-goal comeback to win 5-4.
“I really liked our last three games, I think the biggest thing you have to understand is that things get harder you have to keep putting your foot forward every single night you can’t be happy with what’s going on”
Such is life for those playing out the rest of the season. But at least for one night the Kraken create a memory and enter the history books.
For Straight Arrow News I’m Chris Francis.
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- Tesla’s sales in China have declined recently, dropping 14% over the first two months of 2025. Meanwhile, its main Chinese competitor, BYD, saw a 75% increase over that time and secured nearly 30% of China’s EV market last month, as Tesla accounted for a roughly 4% share.
- Lower prices offered by domestic brands have contributed to this shift. The average Tesla in China costs $33,500, compared to BYD’s median price of $16,700, and some models are as low as $9,700.
- Chinese automakers are also advancing in AI and autonomous driving. Tesla only recently gained approval to introduce Autopilot in China.
Full Story
Tesla has been a dominant force in China’s electric vehicle (EV) market. However, the company is now experiencing a decline in sales as domestic automakers gain ground with competitive pricing and new technology.
How much have Tesla’s sales in China dropped?
In the first two months of 2025, Tesla sold 60,480 vehicles in China, a 14% drop from the same period last year.
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Meanwhile, its primary Chinese competitor, BYD, saw a surge in sales, delivering 481,318 vehicles—a 75% increase over its 2024 figures. In February, BYD held nearly 30% of China’s EV market share, significantly outpacing Tesla, which accounted for just under 4%.
Why are Tesla’s sales to Chinese customers falling?
Affordability has played a key role in this shift. The average Tesla in China costs around $33,500, whereas BYD’s median price stands at $16,700. Some models, like the Seagull, are available for as little as $9,700.
What other factors are contributing to this decline?
Beyond pricing, analysts point to the rapid technological advancements made by Chinese automakers as another factor contributing to Tesla’s slowdown. Many domestic brands have integrated cutting-edge features such as autonomous driving, artificial intelligence and compatibility with smart home ecosystems.
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Tesla, meanwhile, only received approval in February to introduce a version of its Autopilot technology in China. While the company remains a significant player in the market, it faces growing pressure from local competitors offering similar or more advanced features at competitive prices.
[Jack]
TESLA HAS BEEN A DOMINANT FORCE IN CHINA’S ELECTRIC VEHICLE MARKET-
BUT THE COMPANY IS NOW SEEING A DECLINE IN SALES AMID GROWING COMPETITION FROM DOMESTIC BRANDS OFFERING NEW HIGH-TECH FEATURES AND COMPETITIVE PRICING.
DURING THE FIRST TWO MONTHS OF 2025, TESLA SOLD 60,480 VEHICLES IN CHINA-
MARKING A 14% DECLINE FROM THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR.
ITS PRIMARY CHINESE COMPETITOR, BYD, SAW A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE-
SELLING 481,318 VEHICLES—UPWARDS OF 75% MORE THAN ITS SALES OVER THE SAME PERIOD IN 2024.
LAST MONTH, BYD ACCOUNTED FOR NEARLY 30 PERCENT OF CHINA’S EV MARKET SHARE-
SOUNDLY BEATING OUT TESLA, WHICH TOTALED JUST SHY OF 4 PERCENT.
AFFORDABILITY PLAYED A BIG FACTOR IN THIS
THE AVERAGE COST OF A TESLA IN CHINA IS 33,500 DOLLARS-
WHILE BYD VEHICLES HAVE A MEDIAN PRICE OF 16,700 DOLLARS-
WITH SOME MODELS, LIKE THE SEAGULL, GOING FOR AS LITTLE AS 9,700 DOLLARS.
BUT BEYOND TESLA’S MORE EXPENSIVE OFFERINGS-
ANALYSTS ALSO ATTRIBUTED THIS DROPOFF FOR ELON MUSK’S EV BRAND IN CHINA TO THE TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS MADE BY DOMESTIC AUTOMAKERS.
MANY CHINESE COMPANIES HAVE FOCUSED ON INTEGRATING THEIR CARS WITH AUTONOMOUS DRIVING AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FEATURES-
INCLUDING COMPATIBILITY WITH SMART HOME ECOSYSTEMS.
TESLA, ON THE OTHER HAND, ONLY JUST LAST MONTH RECEIVED APPROVAL TO INTRODUCE A VERSION OF ITS AUTOPILOT TECHNOLOGY IN CHINA-
AND THOUGH THE COMPANY STILL REMAINS COMPETITIVE-
IT FACES INCREASING PRESSURE FROM LOCAL AUTOMAKERS OFFERING SIMILAR OR EVEN MORE ADVANCED FEATURES.
FOR STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS, I’M JACK AYLMER.
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- Illinois House Bill 3458 could decriminalize attacks on police officers if the aggressor was experiencing a mental health episode. It would need to be based on a documented history of mental illness.
- Critics, including police officers, argue that the bill may encourage individuals to feign mental illness to justify violence against law enforcement.
- The bill, which excludes attacks on firefighters and other first responders, is currently under review by the Illinois General Assembly Rules Committee.
Full Story
A new bill in Illinois could decriminalize attacks on police officers if the aggressor was experiencing a mental health episode. Democratic state Rep. Lisa Davis introduced House Bill 3458, amending the criminal code of 2012, which would allow individuals with a documented history of mental illness to avoid legal action over attacking a police officer if it is determined that they were experiencing a mental health episode at the time.
Critics including some police officers argue that this could lead to mental illness being used as an excuse to justify violence against law enforcement.
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“I could see how it may incentivize people to feign mental illness if they’re facing charges of aggravated battery to a police officer, whether they’re mentally ill or not,” Taylorville, Illinois police officer Matthew Nichols told WCIA.
Where does the current law stand?
Currently, Illinois law criminalizes attacks on police officers and other first responders, including firefighters.
However, this bill specifically excludes attacks on firefighters and other first responders from decriminalization.
What’s next?
The bill has been referred to the Illinois General Assembly Rules Committee.
A similar proposal was introduced in Virginia in 2023 but failed to pass.
[Kalé Carey]
A NEW BILL IN ILLINOIS COULD DECRIMINALIZE ATTACKS ON POLICE OFFICERS IF THE AGGRESSOR WAS EXPERIENCING A MENTAL HEALTH EPISODE.
DEMOCRATIC STATE REPRESENTATIVE LISA DAVIS INTRODUCED HOUSE BILL 3458, AMENDING THE CRIMINAL CODE OF 2012, WHICH WOULD ALLOW INDIVIDUALS WITH A DOCUMENTED HISTORY OF MENTAL ILLNESS TO AVOID LEGAL ACTION OVER ATTACKING A POLICE OFFICER IF IT IS DETERMINED THAT THEY WERE EXPERIENCING A MENTAL HEALTH EPISODE AT THE TIME.
CRITICS INCLUDING SOME POLICE OFFICERS ARGUE THAT THIS COULD LEAD TO MENTAL ILLNESS BEING USED AS AN EXCUSE TO JUSTIFY VIOLENCE AGAINST LAW ENFORCEMENT.
I could see how it may incentivize people to feign mental illness if they’re facing charges of aggravated battery to a police officer, whether they’re mentally ill or not.
CURRENTLY, ILLINOIS LAW CRIMINALIZES ATTACKS ON POLICE OFFICERS AND OTHER FIRST RESPONDERS, INCLUDING FIREFIGHTERS.
HOWEVER, THIS BILL SPECIFICALLY EXCLUDES ATTACKS ON FIREFIGHTERS AND OTHER FIRST RESPONDERS FROM DECRIMINALIZATION.
THE BILL HAS BEEN REFERRED TO THE ILLINOIS GENERAL ASSEMBLY RULES COMMITTEE.
A SIMILAR PROPOSAL WAS INTRODUCED IN VIRGINIA IN 20-23 BUT FAILED TO PASS.
FOR SAN, I’M KALÉ CAREY.
FOR ALL YOUR LATEST NEWS HEADLINES – DOWNLOAD THE STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS APP TODAY.
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- Kirkpatrick made remarks about California’s wildfire risks and State Farm’s planned rate hikes. The video, released by O’Keefe Media Group, also reveals his discussion with an undercover journalist.
- The company is seeking a rate increase for homeowners impacted by wildfires, citing a $5 billion surplus decline over the past decade.
- A consumer watchdog group has called for an investigation into Kirkpatrick’s comments, arguing they contradict State Farm’s public assurances about remaining an insurer in California.
Full Story
State Farm Vice President Haden Kirkpatrick, who is no longer employed by the insurance company, made controversial remarks in an undercover video released by O’Keefe Media Group. The footage shows Kirkpatrick discussing rate hikes and the Los Angeles wildfires from January 2025, revealing his thoughts about California and the company’s future.
Hidden camera reveals State Farm’s price hike strategy
A hidden camera captured Kirkpatrick, a top executive in innovation and venture capital at State Farm, discussing the company’s decision to raise rates for California residents. He described the rate hike as “kind of orchestrated,” acknowledging State Farm was facing a financial shortfall.
“Our people look at this and say, ‘s–t, we’ve got maybe $5 billion that we’re short if something happens,'” Kirkpatrick said in the video.
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He explained State Farm takes this shortfall to California’s Department of Insurance, informing them that the company is at risk of “exposure,” the possibility of having to pay out claims to insured homeowners. Kirkpatrick further stated State Farm would negotiate with the California Insurance Commissioner to raise their rating. If the company’s request is denied, he said, State Farm would cancel policies.
State Farm requests rate hike after wildfires
In response to the California wildfires, State Farm General requested an emergency 22% rate increase for homeowners. The company claims the higher rates are necessary due to the higher risk in California, citing a $5 billion decline in surplus over the last decade.
As of March 11, State Farm reported over 12,000 fire and auto claims related to the January 2025 wildfires, with payouts exceeding $2 billion to affected customers.
Kirkpatrick talks about future workforce of State Farm
Kirkpatrick also discussed his idea of State Farm’s future workforce. In the video he said, “the demographic profile of America in 2040 more Hispanic and Latinos.”
He also claimed he told his HR team to stay away from his kind when looking for applicants to hire.
State Farm responds to video
State Farm distanced itself from Kirkpatrick’s comments, releasing a statement confirming he is no longer with the company. The statement also described his remarks as “inaccurate” and stated they do not reflect the company’s stance on the wildfire victims, its commitments to California, or its hiring practices.
According to The Los Angeles Times, Kirkpatrick has since called the video a “setup,” claiming it was recorded during what he thought was a private date.
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Consumer watchdog group wants investigation
In response to the video, a Los Angeles-based consumer watchdog group sent a letter to the California Department of Insurance, urging them to investigate Kirkpatrick’s remarks before approving State Farm’s rate increase. The letter argued that Kirkpatrick’s comments contradict State Farm’s previous assurances that the company would continue to operate as an insurer in California.
Tags: California, Eaton Fire, Fire, Home insurance, Insurance, insurance premium, Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades, State Farm, Wildfire
[Haden Kirkpatrick]
“Where the Palisades are, there should never be houses built there in the first place. Where people want to be built in areas where they have natural areas around them for their ego. But their also, it’s a f–ing desert.”
[Kalé Carey]
THOSE ARE SOME OF THE COMMENTS FROM STATE FARM VICE PRESIDENT HADEN KIRKPATRICK—WHO NOW NO LONGER WORKS FOR THE INSURANCE GIANT.
O’KEEFE MEDIA GROUP RELEASED THE FOOTAGE DETAILING A CONVERSATION BETWEEN KIRKPATRICK AND AN UNDERCOVER JOURNALIST DISCUSSING THE LOS ANGELES WILDFIRES BACK IN JANUARY.
A HIDDEN CAMERA CAPTURES THE TOP EXECUTIVE OF INNOVATION AND VENTURE CAPITAL REVEALING THE INSURANCE COMPANY RAISED RATES FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS—A MOVE HE SAYS IS SOMEWHAT PLANNED.
(Kirkpatrick: “Our people look at this and say s–t, we’ve got maybe $5 billion that we’re short if something happens.”)
HE SAYS STATE FARM TAKES THIS SHORTFALL TO CALIFORNIA’S DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE, TELLING THEM THE COMPANY IS AT RISK OF EXPOSURE.
EXPOSURE MEANS THE POSSIBILITY OF PAYING OUT CLAIMS TO INSURED HOMEOWNERS.
KIRKPATRICK SAYS STATE FARM WILL NEGOTIATE WITH THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER TO CATCH UP ON THEIR RATING.
A HIGHER RATING INCREASES THE CHANCES OF PAYING OUT POLICIES. IF THEY’RE DENIED, KIRKPATRICK SAYS STATE FARM WILL SIMPLY CANCEL THE POLICIES.
IN THE CASE OF CALIFORNIA POLICYHOLDERS IMPACTED BY THE WILDFIRES, STATE FARM GENERAL REQUESTED AN EMERGENCY RATE HIKE OF 22 PERCENT FOR HOMEOWNERS.
STATE FARM CLAIMS INSURANCE WILL COST MORE IN CALIFORNIA DUE TO THE MUCH HIGHER RISK, CITING A $5 BILLION DECLINE IN SURPLUS OVER THE LAST TEN YEARS.
THE COMPANY SAYS THE JANUARY 2025 WILDFIRES WILL DRAIN CAPITAL FROM STATE FARM. AS OF MARCH 11TH, THEIR WEBSITE REPORTS OVER 12,000 FIRE AND AUTO CLAIMS, RESULTING IN PAYOUTS EXCEEDING $2 BILLION TO CUSTOMERS.
KIRKPATRICK ALSO DISCUSSES BUILDING STATE FARM’S FUTURE WORKFORCE.
[Kirkpatrick]
“the demographic profile of America in 2040: more Hispanic and Latinos.”
[Carey]
HE SAID HE TASKS HIS H-R TEAM TO FIND APPLICANTS THAT ARE AWAY FROM HIS OWN KIND.
IN RESPONSE TO THE VIDEO, STATE FARM RELEASED A STATEMENT SAYING KIRKPATRICK IS NO LONGER AFFILIATED WITH STATE FARM.
ADDING HIS COMMENTS ARE, “inaccurate and in no way represent the views of State Farm. They do not reflect our position regarding the victims of this tragedy, the commitment we have demonstrated to the people of California, or our hiring practices across the company.”
THE LOS ANGELES TIMES SAID KIRKPATRICK CALLS THE VIDEO A SETUP.
HE SAID IT WAS RECORDED DURING WHAT HE THOUGHT WAS A DATE.
ALTHOUGH ACKNOWLEDGING THE VIDEO IS UNCONFIRMED, AN L.A.-BASED
CONSUMER WATCHDOG GROUP SENT A LETTER TO THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE, REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION INTO KIRKPATRICK’S REMARKS BEFORE APPROVING STATE FARM’S RATE INCREASE.
THE LETTER STATES THAT KIRKPATRICK’S COMMENTS CONTRADICT STATE FARM’S ASSURANCES THAT THEY WILL REMAIN AN INSURER IN CALIFORNIA.
FOR STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS, I’M KALÉ CAREY.
FIND MORE FACT BASED STORIES RIGHT NOW ON THE STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS MOBILE APP.
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- A federal judge ordered federal agencies to rehire tens of thousands of probationary employees terminated as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce the size of the federal workforce. U.S. District Judge William Alsup issued the preliminary injunction on Thursday that directs the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Defense, Energy, Interior and Treasury to rehire fired employees.
- Alsup said that he may extend the order to cover other federal agencies at a later date.
- The judge was appointed by former President Bill Clinton, and justified his ruling by saying that he believes the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) illegally directed agencies to fire probationary employees, while OPM argues it only provided “guidance” to the agencies, which led to the layoffs.
Full Story
A federal judge has ordered federal agencies to rehire tens of thousands of probationary employees who were terminated as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce the size of the federal workforce.
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Right 31%
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Which agencies does the order apply to?
U.S. District Judge William Alsup issued the preliminary injunction on Thursday, March 13, which directs the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Defense, Energy, Interior and Treasury to rehire fired employees.
The judge also said that he may extend the order to cover other federal agencies at a later date.
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What did the case pertain to?
Alsup, appointed by former President Bill Clinton, justified his ruling, saying that he believes the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) illegally directed agencies to fire probationary employees, while the OPM argues it only provided “guidance” to the agencies, which led to the layoffs.
What did the judge’s ruling state?
Alsup said in his ruling on Thursday, “The court finds that the Office of Personnel Management did direct all agencies to terminate probationary employees with the exception of mission-critical employees.”
Alsup said the order is effective immediately.
What did the judge say before the ruling?
The ruling came after Alsup criticized the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) for failing to make acting head of the Office of Management and Budget Charles Ezell available to testify.
The DOJ refused to make Ezell available and instead withdrew a declaration from him submitted last month, which served as the government’s only evidence in the case.
Ezell previously said that his agency did not “direct” other departments to fire probationary workers, which is the main issue in the case brought by labor unions and others.
Alsup told DOJ Attorney Kelsey Helland on Thursday that she is “afraid” to make Ezell available, “because you know cross-examination will reveal the truth. I tend to doubt you’re telling me the truth.”
The judge added, “You’re not helping me get to the truth. You’re giving me press releases — sham documents.”
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What happens next?
Politico reports that Alsup’s ruling is likely to be appealed.
The Trump administration had yet to respond to the ruling at the time of the publishing of this report.
Tags: Agriculture, Bill Clinton, Department of Defense, DOGE, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Employment, federal employees, federal judge, Interior Department, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Energy Department, U.S. Treasury Department, Unemployment, Unions, Veterans, Veterans Affairs, White House, Workers Rights
[KALE CAREY]
A FEDERAL JUDGE ORDERED FEDERAL AGENCIES TO REHIRE TENS OF THOUSANDS OF PROBATIONARY EMPLOYEES TERMINATED AS PART OF THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S EFFORTS TO REDUCE THE SIZE OF THE FEDERAL WORKFORCE.
U-S DISTRICT JUDGE WILLIAM ALSUP ISSUED THE PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION THURSDAY, DIRECTING THE DEPARTMENTS OF VETERANS AFFAIRS, AGRICULTURE, DEFENSE, ENERGY, INTERIOR AND TREASURY TO REHIRE FIRED EMPLOYEES.
ALSUP SAYS HE MAY EXTEND THE ORDER TO COVER OTHER FEDERAL AGENCIES AT A LATER DATE.
ALSUP, APPOINTED BY FORMER PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON, JUSTIFIED HIS RULING, SAYING HE BELIEVES THE OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT ILLEGALLY DIRECTED AGENCIES TO FIRE PROBATIONARY EMPLOYEES.
WHILE O-P-M ARGUES IT ONLY PROVIDED “GUIDANCE” TO THE AGENCIES WHICH LED TO THE LAY OFFS.
“THE COURT FINDS THAT THE OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT DID DIRECT ALL AGENCIES TO TERMINATE PROBATIONARY EMPLOYEES WITH THE EXCEPTION OF MISSION CRITICAL EMPLOYEES.”
THE JUDGE SAYS THE ORDER IS EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.
THE RULING CAME AFTER ALSUP CRITICIZED THE JUSTICE DEPARTMENT FOR FAILING TO MAKE ACTING HEAD OF THE OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET CHARLES EZELL AVAILABLE TO TESTIFY.
THE D-O-J REFUSED TO MAKE EZELL AVAILABLE AND INSTEAD WITHDREW A DECLARATION FROM HIM SUBMITTED LAST MONTH WHICH SERVED AS THE GOVERNMENT’S ONLY EVIDENCE IN THE CASE.
EZELL PREVIOUSLY SAID HIS AGENCY DID NOT “DIRECT” OTHER DEPARTMENTS TO FIRE PROBATIONARY WORKERS WHICH IS THE MAIN ISSUE IN THE CASE BROUGHT BY LABOR UNIONS AND OTHERS.
ALSUP TELLING D-O-J ATTORNEY KELSEY HELLAND THURSDAY SHE IS “AFRAID” TO MAKE EZELL AVAILABLE “BECAUSE YOU KNOW CROSS-EXAMINATION WILL REVEAL THE TRUTH. I TEND TO DOUBT YOU’RE TELLING ME THE TRUTH.”
ALSUP ADDED, “YOU’RE NOT HELPING ME GET TO THE TRUTH. YOU’RE GIVING ME PRESS RELEASES– SHAM DOCUMENTS.”
ALSUP’S RULING IS LIKELY TO BE APPEALED.
THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION HAD YET TO RESPOND TO THE RULING AT THE TIME OF PUBLISHING OF THIS REPORT.
FOR MORE ON THIS STORY– DOWNLOAD THE STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS APP OR VISIT SAN DOT COM.
FOR STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS– I’M KALE CAREY.
Media Landscape
See how news outlets across the political spectrum are covering this story. Learn more
Left 26%
Center 43%
Right 31%
Bias Summary
Bias Comparison
Media outlets on the left
emphasize Judge Alsup’s criticism of the government’s handling of terminations, framing it as a significant legal blow to the Trump administration.
Media outlets on the right
portray the judge’s ruling in a more straightforward manner, focusing on the implications for labor unions and employee rights.
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Bias Distribution
328 other sources covering this story
Total News Sources
328
Leaning Left
60
Center
100
Leaning Right
73
Last Updated
3 weeks ago
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- North Dakota lawmakers are close to becoming the first state to formally ask the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn the 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. The state’s resolution passed the House 52-40.
- The resolution calls for restoring the definition of marriage as a union between one man and one woman, but critics, including the ACLU, argue that it could violate the establishment clause of the U.S. Constitution.
- A recent poll shows that 56% of North Dakota voters support the 2015 Obergefell ruling, while 36% favor efforts to overturn it.
Full Story
North Dakota lawmakers are close to making their state the first to formally ask the Supreme Court to overturn the 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.
Media Landscape
See how news outlets across the political spectrum are covering this story. Learn more
Left 50%
Center 29%
Right 21%
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North Dakota’s resolution, known as House Concurrent Resolution 3013, asks the Supreme Court “to restore the definition of marriage to a union between one man and one woman.”
The bill, which passed the North Dakota House with a 52-40 vote last month, is sponsored by Republican state Rep. Bill Tveit. It still needs Senate approval before heading to the governor’s desk.
Cody Schuler, the advocacy manager of the ACLU of North Dakota, told The Associated Press that the resolution could infringe upon the U.S. Constitution’s establishment clause.
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“Marriage defined as ‘one man, one woman’ is a particular religious view,” Schuler said. “It is not held by all religions, all societies or by nonreligious people, and so therefore it is dangerous to be making that kind of statement because it puts legislators on record as to how they might vote on a law.”
Idaho’s House of Representatives passed a similar resolution in February demanding that the Supreme Court reverse its decision in Obergefell.
However, North Dakota’s resolution would be the first measure of its kind to clear both chambers of a state legislature.
Back and forth before Obergefell
Before the Supreme Court’s 2015 decision, the legal fight over same-sex marriage went back and forth between state courts, federal courts and the Supreme Court with cases involving conflicting rulings about the legality of same-sex marriage bans.
Some courts struck down bans, while others upheld them, leading to a mix of conflicting laws across the country.
The Supreme Court’s involvement was the final word, essentially ending the legal uncertainty around same-sex marriage in the United States.
Reaction to Justice Clarence Thomas’ writing on Obergefell
Justice Clarence Thomas expressed interest in revisiting Obergefell after the court overturned the 1973 Roe v. Wade abortion rights decision in the 2022 Dobbs case.
Thomas said in his concurring Dobbs opinion, that the court “should reconsider all of its substantive due process precedents” that enact rights to contraception access, same-sex relationships and same-sex marriage.
His statement sparked widespread concern and criticism, with many fearing a broader attack on fundamental rights.
Former President Joe Biden condemned this view, warning that if the court were to overturn Obergefell and other rights, it would be a serious threat to personal freedoms and civil rights.
Biden reiterated his belief that the rights secured by Obergefell and similar decisions should not be rolled back, describing it as a potential “step backward.”
LGBTQ+ advocacy group GLAAD called Thomas’ opinion “a blaring red alert for the LGBTQ+ community and for all Americans.”
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What do North Dakota voters say about same-sex marriage?
According to a recent North Dakota News Cooperative poll, a total of 56% of likely voters support the Supreme Court’s 2015 decision on same-sex marriage, while 36% favor efforts by the state House to overturn the rule.
Media Landscape
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Left 50%
Center 29%
Right 21%
Bias Summary
- North Dakota lawmakers are close to being the first state to urge the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn its same-sex marriage ruling, which has been in place for ten years.
- The resolution, backed by MassResistance, passed in the House but requires uncertain Senate approval.
- Several Republican representatives later expressed regret about their votes, stating it sends a negative message about marriage validity.
- Democratic Senator Ryan Braunberger criticized the measure as harmful to North Dakotans and representative of a religious viewpoint, raising concerns about its implications on the establishment clause.
Bias Comparison
Media outlets on the left
framed North Dakota’s legislative efforts as attempts to “undo landmark gay marriage rulings,” emphasizing the potential harm to LGBTQ+ rights, whereas right-leaning outlets highlighted the involvement of “anti-LGBTQ groups,” characterizing the debate as emotionally “charged.”
Media outlets on the right
highlighted a poll showing most North Dakotans supported same-sex marriage, and that some legislators regretted their vote, de-emphasized by the left and center.
Report an issue with this comparison
Bias Distribution
15 other sources covering this story
Total News Sources
15
Leaning Left
7
Center
4
Leaning Right
3
Last Updated
3 weeks ago
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- California is taking out a $3.4 billion loan to cover health care costs. The money will cover “critical payments” one year after expanding Medi-Cal coverage to all immigrants living illegally in the state.
- The Department of Finance told the state assembly that California is spending $9.5 billion this year to provide medical services for individuals living illegally in the state.
- According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, seven states and Washington, D.C., offer health care to adults and children, regardless of immigration status.
Full Story
California is taking out a $3.4 billion loan to cover costs incurred by the state’s health care program. The move comes one year after medical coverage was expanded to all immigrants illegally in the state. The state’s finance department said it already approved the loan to make critical payments to Medi-Cal providers.
The money for the loan is coming out of an account within the general fund used to cover economic uncertainties.
How much money does California spend on health care?
The Department of Finance told the state assembly that California is spending $9.5 billion this year to provide medical services for individuals illegally living in the state. The state’s general fund is covering $8.4 billion.
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Starting Jan. 1, 2024, California began offering medical coverage to all immigrants illegally in the state through Medi-Cal. The program is the state’s version of Medicaid, the federal program that covers low-income individuals.
What has the governor’s office said?
In a statement to KCRA, a spokesperson for California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, said the shortfall that led to the loan is not due to care for those illegally in the state.
“This isn’t new — as the administration outlined in the Governor’s January budget proposal, additional funding is needed to support Medi-Cal,” spokesperson Izzy Gardon told KCRA. “Rising Medicaid costs are a national challenge, affecting both red and blue states alike. This is not unique to California.”
During a budget hearing in February, State Rep. Carl DeMaio, R, said cutting the program would lead to a $1 billion surplus and allow the state to have a reserve.
“My colleague from Los Angeles mentions a moral budget, a morally balanced budget. I’d like to start with a balanced budget,” DeMaio told lawmakers.
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According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 14 states plus Washington, D.C., offer state-funded health care to all children regardless of immigration status, seven of those states and Washington, D.C., also offer coverage to some or all adults.
California is taking out a $3.4 billion loan to cover costs incurred by the state’s healthcare program, one year after medical coverage was expanded to all undocumented immigrants in the state. The state’s finance department said it already approved the loan to make critical payments to Medi-Cal providers.
The money for the loan is coming out of an account within the general fund used to cover economic uncertainties.
The Department of Finance told the state assembly that California is spending $9.5 billion this year to provide medical services for undocumented individuals. The state’s general fund is covering $8.4 billion.
Starting January 1, 2024, California began offering medical coverage to all undocumented immigrants in the state through Medi-Cal, the state’s version of Medicaid, the federal program that covers low-income individuals.
A spokesperson for Gov. Gavin Newsom, D, said of the shortfall “This isn’t new. Rising Medicaid costs are a national challenge, affecting both red and blue states alike. This is not unique to California.”
During a budget hearing in February, State Rep. Carl DeMaio, R, said cutting the program would lead to a $1 billion surplus and allow the state to have a reserve.
DeMaio: “My colleague from Los Angeles mentions a moral budget, a morally balanced budget. I’d like to start with a balanced budget.”
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 14 states plus DC offer state-funded health care to all children regardless of immigration status, seven of those states and DC also offer coverage to some or all adults.
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