U.S. Trade Deficit Narrowed to $73.3 Billion in June as Imports Fell
The U.S. trade deficit narrowed in June as imports fell more than exports, but the data do not show whether tariffs caused the shift or lowered prices.
National
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SafeSport’s Weekly Notices Put New Focus on Restricted People
SafeSport began weekly public notices July 21 about new database entries and arbitration outcomes. The listings are not criminal convictions or civil judgments.
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NSF expands AI-ready data funding as GAO flags governance gaps
NSF awarded $83 million for data infrastructure and opened a program that could provide up to $100 million as GAO flagged reuse-rights and cost gaps.
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FCC delays national FM translator filing window until November
The FCC moved the first nationwide noncommercial FM translator filing window to Nov. 4-17, giving eligible broadcasters more time to prepare.
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Federal prison closures put staffing shortages and transfers in focus
The Bureau of Prisons will close six institutions or institutional groups, affecting about 500 employees and raising questions about transfers and capacity.
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Federal approval moves I-5 Columbia River bridge toward construction
A July 1 federal decision clears the Portland-Vancouver bridge project for procurement and permits, but construction is still expected to begin in 2028.
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FEMA reform debate puts disaster aid and state roles in focus
A July hearing brought competing FEMA reform plans together, but no law has changed how disaster declarations, recovery aid or survivor assistance work.
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CN backs Union Pacific’s Norfolk Southern bid as STB review continues
Canadian National will not oppose Union Pacific’s proposed Norfolk Southern purchase, but the STB still needs more information before setting the next steps.
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White House flags aircraft imports as national-security concern
President Donald Trump identified commercial aircraft and engine imports as a national-security concern, but imposed no immediate tariffs as agencies begin talks.
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Santa Rosa Island camping remains closed as limited day use continues
Santa Rosa Island reopened for limited day visits after a wildfire, but overnight use remains prohibited through at least Sept. 15, 2026.
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GAO: DHS has 39 priority recommendations still needing attention
A newly released GAO oversight report says DHS implemented five recommendations but added seven more, leaving 39 priorities open across key mission areas.
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Trump’s SAVE Act push stalls as Senate recess nears
Trump wants senators to stay in Washington for the SAVE Act, but John Thune says Republicans lack the votes and no direct Senate vote is scheduled.
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States sue over federal access to TANF recipient data
Twenty-two states and D.C. sued over a federal notice covering TANF records, including Social Security numbers and immigration-status information.
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States Can Seek $40 Million for Employer-Led Skills Training
The Labor Department is accepting state workforce agency applications through August 17 for grants supporting training in manufacturing, shipbuilding and more.
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Micron plans $500 million backing for Texas wafer plant
Micron plans $500 million in financing for GlobalWafers’ Sherman wafer plant and a 10-year supply deal, but both remain subject to closing conditions.
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IRS Expands Business Tax Account Tools for Small Businesses
New IRS tools let eligible small businesses download notices, schedule payments and review records, but access still depends on entity type and user role.
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132,440 fireworks rockets recalled over premature-explosion risk
The CPSC recalled about 132,440 World Class Skull Strobe rockets. Consumers should stop using them and return them for a full refund.
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PPP settlement shows pandemic-loan scrutiny is still expanding
A $2.6 million Georgia settlement highlights continuing federal review of pandemic loans, corporate-affiliation rules, data analysis and Treasury collections.
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FMCSA removes 10 ELDs; Sept. 8 deadline set for replacements
FMCSA removed 10 electronic logging devices from its registered list. Affected carriers and drivers must switch to registered devices by Sept. 8, 2026.
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Colorado River proposal could force deeper cuts in 3 states
A final federal environmental review advances a plan that could reduce Colorado River use in Arizona, California and Nevada after 2026.
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FERC Gives PJM Until Sept. 30 to Agree on Grid Reforms
FERC is pressing PJM stakeholders to agree on governance reforms by Sept. 30 as a capacity-auction shortfall and rising demand test the grid operator.
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Amazon Settlement Highlights Identity-Theft Records Rights
The FTC’s June 30 Amazon settlement highlights a federal right identity-theft victims can use to request transaction records from businesses within 30 days.