JQJO — Your world, one story at a time · Page 977

Washington, Lawmakers and survivors announced legislation Tuesday to create 'Virginia's Law,' aiming to eliminate statutes of limitations that have blocked trafficking suits, while Attorney General Pam Bondi faced congressional questioning this week over the Justice Department's handling and release of millions of Jeffrey Epstein-related files. Bondi apologized to victims and defended the department, while lawmakers criticized redactions and disclosure practices. The Justice Department previously released extensive documents after the Epstein Files Transparency Act was signed. Congressional exchanges grew heated during hearings as survivors and advocates pressed for transparency and accountability. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research and evidence.

Washington On Tuesday earlier this week the heads of U.S. immigration agencies testified before the House Committee on Homeland Security about enforcement operations in American cities following the shooting deaths of two protesters in Minneapolis. Acting ICE director Todd Lyons, CBP chief Rodney Scott and USCIS director Joseph Edlow answered questions about expanding enforcement after a spending bill last year increased agency funding. Lawmakers pressed officials on tactics and accountability while officials defended enforcement actions. The hearing included live testimony and exchanges across party lines as funding and operational scope were scrutinized. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

United States: Federal and state officials and consumer groups warned that online romance and relationship-investment scams are increasing around Valentine's Day, exploiting dating apps, social media and messaging platforms. Agencies including the Better Business Bureau, AARP and state insurance divisions reported rising reports and financial losses, citing FTC figures and local case tallies. Law enforcement and consumer agencies described tactics such as long‑term relationship building, refusal of video calls, urgent money requests, and AI‑generated personalized messages. Officials urged vigilance, reporting to authorities and use of BBB and local resources to recover funds. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Washington: Two dozen Buddhist monks completed a 2,300-mile Walk for Peace on Tuesday, arriving after a 15-week route that began in Fort Worth, Texas. The procession, often accompanied by a rescue dog Aloka, drew thousands nationwide along highways and town centers and millions of online viewers. The group planned outdoor appearances at Washington National Cathedral and the Lincoln Memorial and an interfaith reception hosted by Bishop Mariann Budde. Authorities issued rolling road closures to protect participants. Organizers said the walk aimed to raise awareness of peace, compassion and mindfulness across nine states. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Lansing — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer this week presented a Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal that seeks new revenues and targeted tax relief amid mounting Medicaid shortfalls and flat student reading outcomes. The plan would generate roughly $780 million from taxes on tobacco, vaping, sports betting and digital advertising, and would tap the rainy-day fund, while proposing a 10% property tax cut for senior homeowners. Lawmakers of both parties signaled debate, with House Republicans opposing tax increases. State NAEP scores show Michigan fourth-grade reading proficiency fell from 29% in 2015 to 25% in 2024. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

STARKE, Fla. Authorities executed Ronald Palmer Heath Tuesday evening at Florida State Prison, carrying out the state's first lethal injection of 2026. Heath, 64, was convicted in 1990 for the 1989 murder, robbery and related charges in the death of traveling salesman Michael Sheridan. The execution followed Florida's record 19 executions in 2025; two additional executions are scheduled in the coming weeks. Opponents including faith leaders urged clemency. Officials reported Heath was pronounced dead after a three-drug injection beginning at 6 p.m., as confirmed by records. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Los Angeles jurors heard opening statements Monday as plaintiffs and state prosecutors accused Meta and YouTube of designing addictive features that harmed children. Plaintiffs claim algorithms, endless scrolling and notifications prioritized engagement over safety; New Mexico prosecutors said Meta concealed risks and targeted minors. Meta disputed those claims, citing safety tools and contesting causation. TikTok and Snap previously settled. Witnesses expected include senior executives and expert testimony on algorithms and mental health. Courts will examine internal documents and company policies during trial proceedings. Judges will weigh evidence, testimony, and expert analysis carefully. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Washington — This week the United States and India announced a framework for an interim trade agreement intended to expand reciprocal market access. On Feb. 10 the White House released a fact sheet saying India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on US industrial goods and a broad set of agricultural products, while the US removed an additional 25% tariff on certain Indian imports linked to India's pledge to reduce Russian oil purchases. The fact sheet was revised to remove a reference to "certain pulses." USTR described India as a potential supply-chain alternative to China. Based on 6 articles and research.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Monday threatened to bar the Gordie Howe International Bridge between Detroit and Windsor from opening until the United States receives compensation and “fairness and respect” from Canada. Trump posted the demand on Truth Social, cited Canadian ownership of the bridge, complaints about Canadian tariffs and restrictions on U.S. products, and urged immediate negotiations and possible U.S. ownership of half the crossing. Construction began in 2018, with Canada funding the project; officials report completion and system testing are underway and oversight continues, with opening planned this year. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Los Angeles: A federal judge on Monday blocked California’s law banning federal immigration agents from wearing facial coverings, while upholding a requirement that agents display agency identification and badge numbers. Judge Christina Snyder said the 'No Secret Police Act' unlawfully discriminated against federal officers because it did not apply to state authorities and invoked the Constitution’s supremacy clause; she said the Justice Department had not shown the mask ban directly regulated the federal government. The Trump administration sued in November after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed it in September following summer ICE raids. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.