State News
06/20/2026 · Pitt County
Britain will prohibit social media use for children under 16
The British government announced a ban on social media use for anyone under 16, affecting platforms including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and X. The move positions the U.K. among countries implementing stricter online safety measures for minors.
Trump Nominates Former SEC Chair Jay Clayton as Intelligence Director
President Trump nominated Jay Clayton, who led the Securities and Exchange Commission during his first term, to serve as director of national intelligence. The move comes after Trump's selection of an acting director sparked significant pushback from lawmakers.
06/20/2026
Congress Allows Surveillance Authority to Expire
The House failed to advance legislation renewing a major surveillance tool before departing for recess, allowing Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act to lapse. The provision has permitted intelligence agencies to monitor foreign targets without individual warrants.
06/20/2026
Trump announces U.S.-Iran deal signing for Sunday
President Trump said the United States and Iran will sign a deal to end their conflict on Sunday, with both sides expected to execute the agreement electronically. Iran has contested the proposed timeline for signing.
06/20/2026
Minnesota man pleads guilty to killing state House Democratic leader and her husband
A Minnesota man entered a guilty plea Thursday to murder charges after posing as a police officer and fatally shooting the top Democrat in the state House and her husband. The plea agreement bars federal prosecutors from seeking the death penalty.
06/20/2026
House Passes Bill to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent
The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation that would establish daylight saving time year-round. Known as the Sunshine Protection Act, the bill now awaits review in the Senate.
06/20/2026
United States Increases Naval Presence in Strait of Hormuz Amidst Regional Incidents
The United States has increased its naval presence in the Strait of Hormuz. This action follows reports of attacks on commercial ships in the region. The Strait is a vital maritime passage for global oil shipments.
06/20/2026
Michigan Investigates Lettuce as Potential Source of Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
Michigan health officials are investigating a rise in cyclosporiasis cases, with early information suggesting lettuce or salad greens as a possible source. The state has reported more than 3,300 cases.
06/20/2026
Pennsylvania Reports Infant Measles Death, First in State in 35 Years
Pennsylvania health officials announced an infant's death linked to measles, marking the first such fatality in the state in 35 years. This incident represents one of two measles-related deaths reported nationally this week.
06/20/2026
States Sue USPS Over Mail-in Voting Order, Iran Considers Strait of Hormuz Deal
Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Postal Service, challenging a presidential order regarding mail-in voting. Separately, Iran indicated it would ban military vessels from the Strait of Hormuz if a deal with Oman to reopen the waterway progresses. The FDA also approved a new medication for pancreatic cancer.
06/20/2026
Drugstores Report Increased Prescriptions for Medicare Obesity Drug Program
A Medicare program, which started July 1, allows some beneficiaries to receive obesity drugs for $50 per month. Two major drugstore chains, CVS and Walgreens, report filling 100,000 such prescriptions each.
06/20/2026
Phoenix Fire Department Utilizes Ice in Heat-Related Emergencies
Phoenix fire personnel now use bags of ice in treating heat-related emergencies. The new protocol aims to quickly cool individuals experiencing heatstroke. This approach targets a leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States.
06/20/2026
Army Initiates Plan for Microreactor Construction at Five Bases
The U.S. Army selected five companies to develop microreactors at five military installations. These companies could receive up to $2.2 billion over five years as they reach performance milestones. The initiative supports a broader national effort to increase nuclear power generation.
06/20/2026
AI Data Centers Emerge as a Midterm Election Issue
Artificial intelligence data centers have become a focal point in the current midterm election cycle. Candidates are developing policy responses to community concerns regarding these facilities. The issue could influence various races across the country.
06/20/2026
Supreme Court Ruling in Landor v. Louisiana Shifts Focus to Federalism, Funding
The Supreme Court's decision in Landor v. Louisiana Department of Corrections focused on federalism and funding, rather than religious liberty. The ruling examined whether a federal law authorized money damages against state officials for religious freedom violations. This outcome diverged from expectations, prompting discussion on the balance of federal and state power.
06/20/2026
Supreme Court Receives New Petitions Regarding Ten Commandments Displays in Classrooms
The U.S. Supreme Court has received two new petitions asking it to review state laws mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. A Louisiana teacher argues the law violates the separation of church and state, while Texas families earlier challenged a similar measure.
06/20/2026
Analysts Project Limited Impact on Beef Prices from Proposed Policy
A recent proposal aimed at the beef industry may not significantly reduce hamburger prices, according to experts. Analysts state that several factors contribute to current beef costs. The plan comes weeks before midterm elections, where food prices are a prominent voter concern.
06/20/2026
States Implement Strategies to Address Hospital Pricing
States across the U.S. are exploring new approaches to manage hospital charges and control healthcare expenses. Indiana has become the latest state to introduce measures aimed at limiting what hospitals can bill patients.
06/20/2026
Immigration Arrests Reach 50,000 in July
Immigration arrests totaled 50,000 in July, according to recent data. This figure reflects enforcement activity since Secretary Markwayne Mullin assumed leadership of the Department of Homeland Security in March.
06/20/2026
Trump Administration Seeks Supreme Court Review on Border Policy
The Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to review a federal appeals court decision concerning the removal of immigrants who cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally. The case centers on a presidential proclamation that instructs officials to expedite removals without providing standard asylum processes.
06/20/2026
FDA Authorizes First Device to Continuously Monitor Glucose and Ketones
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized the first wearable device that continuously monitors both ketone levels and blood sugar. The Libre Duo 10 Day Continuous Dual Glucose Ketone Monitoring System received approval for use by individuals aged two years and older living with diabetes.
06/20/2026
Parents Seek Cost-Saving Strategies for School Year Expenses
Parents are utilizing diverse strategies to reduce costs as the new school year approaches. These methods include establishing savings accounts and purchasing discounted items from retail outlets.
06/20/2026
Canada Implements Retaliatory Tariffs on U.S. Goods
Canada has introduced tariffs on various U.S. products in response to new American duties on steel and aluminum imports. The move escalates trade tensions between the two neighboring nations.
06/20/2026
Pride Month Observances See Increased Scrutiny from Multiple Groups
Companies that previously supported Pride events now exhibit caution, according to observers. This shift coincides with heightened criticism from both within and outside the LGBTQ+ community regarding the nature and commercialization of Pride.
06/20/2026
Domestic Energy Bills Projected to Continue Rise, Government Faces Pressure
Government officials are facing increased scrutiny as forecasts indicate a continued upward trend in domestic energy prices. Consumers and advocacy groups anticipate further financial strain.
06/20/2026
Iran and Oman Discuss Strait of Hormuz Shipping Plan
Iran and Oman are in discussions regarding a temporary plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping. Tehran has conditioned any agreement on the lifting of U.S. sanctions.
06/20/2026
US, Canada Weigh Tariff Reductions Amid Trade Tensions
Officials from the United States and Canada are exploring options to reduce current trade tariffs. This follows recent actions by both nations impacting specific imports and exports. The outcome of these discussions remains undetermined.
06/20/2026
U.S. Consumer Confidence Declines Amid Higher Gas Prices
U.S. consumer confidence decreased in August, reaching its lowest level in seven months. The Conference Board reported this dip, which coincided with sustained gasoline prices above $4 per gallon.
06/20/2026
ICE Reports Highest Monthly Arrest Total in July
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement made nearly 50,000 arrests in July, marking the highest monthly total since the start of the Trump administration. Texas and Florida together accounted for approximately 20,000 of these arrests.
06/20/2026
Supreme Court Allows Temporary Mail-In Voting Restrictions Ahead of Midterms
The Supreme Court issued an emergency order, allowing the Trump administration to proceed with mail-in voting restrictions for now. This decision comes ahead of the November midterm elections. Opponents voiced concerns about the timing of the ruling.
06/20/2026