Podcasts about policy statement

In this week's episode of the Coin Stories News Block, we cover these major headlines related to Bitcoin and global finance: Trump Signs Order to Create U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund David Sacks: “Stablecoins Could Lower Long-term Rates” Czech Republic Ends Capital Gains Tax on Bitcoin FDIC to Update Crypto Banking Guidelines and more! ---- Join my mailing list and subscribe to our free newsletter: thenewsblock.substack.com  ---- Natalie's Promotional Links:  Coin Stories is powered by Genius Group (NYSE American $GNS). Genius is a Bitcoin-first business delivering AI powered, education and acceleration solutions for the future of work. Learn more at https://www.geniusgroup.ai/btc-newsletter. Secure your Bitcoin with collaborative custody and set up your inheritance plan with Casa: https://www.casa.io/natalie  For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Get 5000 sats when you download using this link and promo code COINSTORIES10: https://www.speed.app/sweepstakes-promocode/ River is where I DCA weekly and buy Bitcoin with the lowest fees in the industry: https://partner.river.com/natalie  Safely self-custody your Bitcoin with Coinkite and the ColdCard Wallet. Get 5% off: https://store.coinkite.com/promo/COINSTORIES Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie Bitcoin 2025 is heading to Las Vegas May 27-29th! Join me for my 4th Annual Women of Bitcoin Brunch! Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/affiliate/hodl/event/bitcoin-2025   Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie  Connect with Bitcoiners and Bitcoin merchants wherever you live and travel on the Orange Pill App: https://signup.theorangepillapp.com/opa/natbrunell ---- References mentioned in the episode:  Trump Executive Order to Create Soveriegn Wealth Fund Trump Signs Order to Create Sovereign Wealth Fund  Howard Lutnick Personally Owns A Lot of Bitcoin  Cantor Fitzgerald Announces Bitcoin Financing Business David Sacks Studying the Feasibility of Bitcoin Reserve  Senator Bill Hagerty's New Stablecoin Bill  Senator Hagerty Announces New Stablecoin Bill  David Sacks' Comments on Stablecoin Legislation Tether's Q4 2024 Attestation Paolo Ardoino Says Tether Won't Hold Long-duration  Bessent Says Focus On Lowering 10-Year Treasury Yields Czech Republic Eliminates Taxes on Bitcoin  Breez Report on the State of Bitcoin Payments  FDIC Releases Correspondence on Operation Chokepoint FDIC Set to Revise Guidelines for Banks on Digital Assets Hester Peirce's Policy Statement on Cryptocurrencies  Tiger 21 CEO Says It Holds $6 Billion in Digital Assets  MicroStrategy Rebrands to Strategy  Trump's Media Company to Launch Bitcoin ETF ARK Invest's Big Ideas 2025 Report ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories   #money #Bitcoin #investing

The FTC's unfair competition enforcement policy under FTC Act Section 5 has frequently been in the headlines the past two years. What is the history of Section 5 enforcement and how has the Commission utilized this tool since issuing its 2022 Policy Statement on unfair methods of competition? Hosts Jeny Maier and Sergei Zaslavsky explore the many aspects of Section 5 unfair competition enforcement with guest Dan Graulich. Listen to this episode to learn about the past, present, and potential future of the FTC's unfair competition enforcement policy. With special guest: Daniel Graulich, Baker & McKenzie LLP Related Links: FTC 2022 Policy Statement The FTC's Section 5 Initiatives: Where Things Stand Under the Biden Administration  Hosted by: Jeny Maier, Axinn, Veltrop & Harkrider LLP and Sergei Zaslavsky, O'Melveny & Myers LLP

In today's episode of AI Lawyer Talking Tech, we explore the transformative shift AI is making across the legal industry and beyond. From in-house lawyers increasingly embracing contract AI tools to enforcement agencies leveraging AI for investigations, the push for efficiency and precision is evident. We'll discuss Congress's new AI provisions in the defense bill, China's landmark decision on cross-border data transfers under the PIPL, and Hong Kong's principles for responsible AI use in finance. Plus, we dive into change management strategies within law firms and the rise of legal tech communities like Cetient's new Discord channel. Whether it's blockchain adoption, legal education innovation, or global AI regulations, the momentum is building – and AI is at the heart of it all. Cai Felip about Blockchain: “Implementing blockchain in different sectors is getting easier”20 Dec 2024Golbal Legal Tech HubAI and the Law: Emerging Trends in Enforcement19 Dec 2024GenAI-LexologyJoin us on Discord — Cetient Legal AI20 Dec 2024Legaltech on Medium#0060: (CCT) When to Bring in Change Management, Training, and Innovation Teams19 Dec 2024ILTA VoicesCongress Passes Defense Bill with AI Provisions — AI: The Washington Report20 Dec 2024Mintz LevinAI and the Law: Emerging Trends in Enforcement19 Dec 2024McDermott Will and EmeryGuangzhou Internet Court issues the first decision on cross-border transfer of personal data under PIPL19 Dec 2024Mayer BrownHong Kong's Policy Statement on Responsible Application of Artificial Intelligence in the Financial Market19 Dec 2024Mayer BrownLaw School Set to Launch Undergraduate Minor in Fall 202519 Dec 2024Utah Chronicle

  If you are involved with sports medicine, you have no doubt interacted with someone involved in cheerleading. From young ages, our youth are participating […]

  If you are involved with sports medicine, you have no doubt interacted with someone involved in cheerleading. From young ages, our youth are participating in cheer in various forms in private clubs or through their schools. However, is cheerleading safe? Today on the podcast we have the two lead authors from the recently published policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics titled “Safety in Cheerleading: Epidemiology and Recommendations.” So, grab your poms and get ready to cheer on this discussion.    Connect with The Host! Subscribe to This Podcast Now!        The ultimate success for every podcaster – is FEEDBACK! Be sure to take just a few minutes to tell the hosts of this podcast what YOU think over at Apple Podcasts! It takes only a few minutes but helps the hosts of this program pave the way to future greatness! Not an Apple Podcasts user? No problem! Be sure to check out any of the other many growing podcast directories online to find this and many other podcasts via The Podcaster Matrix!       Housekeeping -- Get the whole story about Dr. Mark and his launch into this program, by listing to his "101" episode that'll get you educated, caught up and in tune with the Doctor that's in the podcast house! Listen Now! -- Interested in being a Guest on The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast? Connect with Mark today!   Links from this Episode: -- Dr. Mark Halstead: On the Web -- On Twitter -- Dr. Jennifer King: On the Web -- Dr. Greg Camty: On the Web -- Canty G, King J; COUNCIL ON SPORTS MEDICINE AND FITNESS. Safety in Cheerleading: Epidemiology and Recommendations: Policy Statement. Pediatrics. 2024 Nov 1;154(5):e2024068956. doi: 10.1542/peds.2024-068956. PMID: 39429001. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39429001/   Calls to the Audience Inside this Episode: -- Be sure to interact with the host, send detailed feedback via our customized form and connect via ALL of our social media platforms! Do that over here now! -- Interested in being a guest inside The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast with Dr. Mark? Tell us now! -- Ready to share your business, organization or efforts message with Dr. Mark's focused audience? Let's have a chat! -- Do you have feedback you'd like to share with Dr. Mark from this episode? Share YOUR perspective!   Be an Advertiser/Sponsor for This Program!     Tell Us What You Think! Feedback is the cornerstone and engine of all great podcast. Be sure to chime in with your thoughts, perspective sand more.  Share your insight and experiences with Dr. Mark by clicking here!   The Host of this Program: Mark Halstead:  Dr. Mark Halstead received his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin Medical School. He stayed at the University of Wisconsin for his pediatric residency, followed by a year as the chief resident. Following residency, he completed a pediatric and adult sports medicine fellowship at Vanderbilt University. He has been an elected member to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness and the Board of Directors of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM). He has served as a team physician or medical consultant to numerous high schools, Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Washington University, St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, St. Louis Athletica, and St. Louis Rams. He serves and has served on many local, regional and national committees as an advisor for sports medicine and concussions. Dr. Halstead is a national recognized expert in sport-related concussions and pediatric sports medicine. — Dr. Mark Halstead on Facebook — Dr. Mark Halstead on LinkedIn — Dr. Mark Halstead on Twitter — Learn Why The Pediatric Sports Medicine Podcast Exists...   The Guests Featured Inside this Program:

In this episode, Tumisho Grater, Multi-Manager Investment Analyst, provides an insightful recap of the recent Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) presented by the finance minister. Tumisho discusses the fiscal outlook, highlighting the unexpected downward revisions to revenue estimates and the challenges faced by the National Treasury in containing expenditure growth. The episode delves into the market reactions, including movement in the rand and bond yields, and outlines key takeaways from the MTBPS on both the revenue and expenditure sides. Tune in to understand the implications of the MTBPS on South Africa's economic landscape and what it means for the future. LinkedIn · YouTube

John Maytham speaks to Lisette Ijssel de Schepper, Chief Economist at the Bureau for Economic Research, about the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement and what it means for individuals, and government departments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this quick take, Portfolio Manager Jason Swartz highlights the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement's key takeaways. From critical infrastructure funding and support for Transnet to conservative yet realistic fiscal planning, Jason breaks down what these updates mean for South Africa's financial markets.Listen in for insights on where growth opportunities lie and how markets reacted to the announcement.Thanks for listening! Follow us on Linkedin.

In today's episode, we are diving into the 2024 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) and unpacking what it means for South African consumers. This annual budget update is critical because it sets out government's fiscal priorities, changes in public spending, and revenue forecasts over the next three years. For everyday South Africans, the MTBPS impacts key areas like taxes, interest rates, and government support programs. Today, we'll look at how these policy shifts could affect your wallet, from the cost of essentials to loan repayments and savings. Join Dr Frank Magwegwe, Head of Financial Wellness and Advisory at Nedbank and GIBS faculty member, as he breaks down the key takeaways and discuss what this budget statement means for your personal finances, both now and in the year ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cosatu warns against austerity in medium-term budget policy statement by Radio Islam

Stephen Grootes explores with Busisiwe Mavuso, Business Leadership South Africa's CEO, the implications of the mid-term budget policy statement for South African businesses.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Grootes talks to Edward Kieswetter, Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service, Isaah Mhlangu, Chief Economist at Rand Merchant Bank, and Peter Attard Montalto, Managing Director at Krutham, getting their expert analysis and insights on the recently unveiled mid-term budget policy statement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Investec Chief Economist Annabel Bishop about expectations for the medium-term budget statement under the government of national unity, which is expected to take place today, the need to maintain revenue, and the economic difficulties that must be addressed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Relebogile Mabotja speaks to International Senior Tax Manager, Tertius Troost about expectations and key focus areas for the Medium Term- Budget Policy Statement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is set to deliver the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement today, and for a welcome change, South Africa's economic outlook is looking up. The country's recovery from the pandemic has been driven by decreasing inflation, easing interest rates, and increased energy security, showcasing the economy's resilience. Minister Godongwana is expected to highlight these positive trends, the lower political uncertainty and the benefits of the "two-pot system" withdrawals. Tax revenues are also on the rise, and business and consumer confidence are bolstering the economy. To dive deeper into these developments, Elvis Presslin spoke to Waldo Krugell, a Professor of Economics at Northwest University

The Congress of South African Trade Unions, COSATU will today picket outside Parliament ahead of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement. The union is unhappy with the government's economic policies, which they believe have failed to address the country's economic woes. COSATU has been critical of National Treasury's austerity measures, which they argue will worsen the economic situation. Elvis Presslin spoke to COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator, Matthew Parks to elaborate further on their concerns

The public sector wage bill is once again expected to come into sharp focus this week as the finance minister delivers the midterm budget policy statement under the government of national unity.  Government has tabled at 4.7-percent wage offer after unions rejected its initial 3-percent offer.  Public service unions - who are demanding a 12-percent wage increase for the 2025/26 financial year - have lamented government's austerity measures.  They say the cost of living far outpaces the cost of labour, placing financial pressure on workers.  Naledi Ngcobo reports 

All professional investors and money managers start their investment strategy and management programs with an investment policy statement, but it turns out most average investors don't have one.

In this episode of the market & economic wrap, Trevor Garvin, Head of Multi-Manager at Nedgroup Investments discusses the challenges facing South Africa's Finance Minister ahead of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS). He covers the rand's performance against the US dollar, recent movements in global stock markets, fluctuations in Brent crude oil and precious metals prices, and South Africa's inflation trends and forecasts. The episode also includes projections for the upcoming budget, touching on tax revenue, public sector wages, and debt service costs, and concludes with a hopeful outlook for continued positive investor sentiment. LinkedIn · YouTube

Nosipho Radebe speaks to Isaac Matshego, Economist at NedbankSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 216 of America Adapts, I'm joined by Sarah Bronin, Chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, or ACHP. We dive into the vital work the agency does to protect our nation's historic sites, with a focus on its regulatory responsibilities, especially the Section 106 review process. Sarah also shares how the ACHP is incorporating Indigenous knowledge into preservation practices, and we discuss the growing need to streamline approvals for climate-resilient projects. Plus, we touch on the challenge of community relocation due to climate impacts, highlighting the importance of planning and collaboration in these efforts. This episode sheds light on the critical intersection of historic preservation and climate adaptation, offering valuable insights on how communities can work together to preserve their heritage while adapting to our changing climate.   Check out the America Adapts Media Kit here! Subscribe to the America Adapts newsletter here. Donate to America Adapts Listen to America Adapts on your favorite app here! Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter: https://www.facebook.com/americaadapts/ @usaadapts https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-parsons-america-adapts/ Links in this episode: https://www.achp.gov/ Proposed Program Comment on Accessible, Climate-Resilient, and Connected Communities: ACHP is currently considering a proposal to streamline and accelerate the federal historic preservation review process for critical projects such as housing developments, renewable energy installations like solar panels, and infrastructure projects including bike lanes. Policy Statement on Climate Change and Historic Preservation: In 2023, ACHP adopted a policy statement that provides a clearer framework for federal agencies to collaborate on preserving historic properties while adapting them to withstand climate impacts. U.S. Climate Heritage in the International Context: On Oct. 4, ACHP co-sponsored a Climate Heritage Policy Conference in Washington, D.C., focusing on the lessons the U.S. can draw from other countries to more effectively integrate cultural preservation and climate change mitigation efforts.   Doug Parsons and Speaking Opportunities: If you are interested in having Doug speak at corporate and conference events, sharing his unique, expert perspective on adaptation in an entertaining and informative way, more information can be found here! Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter: https://www.facebook.com/americaadapts/ @usaadapts https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-parsons-america-adapts/ Donate to America Adapts Follow on Apple PodcastsFollow on Android Now on Spotify! List of Previous Guests on America Adapts Follow/listen to podcast on Apple Podcasts. Donate to America Adapts, we are now a tax deductible charitable organization! Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco Strategies to Address Climate Change Risk in Low- and Moderate-income Communities - Volume 14, Issue 1https://www.frbsf.org/community-development/publications/community-development-investment-review/2019/october/strategies-to-address-climate-change-low-moderate-income-communities/ Podcasts in the Classroom – Discussion guides now available for the latest episode of America Adapts. These guides can be used by educators at all levels. Check them out here! The 10 Best Sustainability Podcasts for Environmental Business Leadershttps://us.anteagroup.com/news-events/blog/10-best-sustainability-podcasts-environmental-business-leaders Join the climate change adaptation movement by supporting America Adapts!  Please consider supporting this podcast by donating through America Adapts fiscal sponsor, the Social Good Fund. All donations are now tax deductible! For more information on this podcast, visit the website at http://www.americaadapts.org and don't forget to subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts.   Podcast Music produce by Richard Haitz Productions Write a review on Apple Podcasts ! America Adapts on Facebook!   Join the America Adapts Facebook Community Group. Check us out, we're also on YouTube! Executive Producer Dr. Jesse Keenan Subscribe to America Adapts on Apple Podcasts Doug can be contacted at americaadapts @ g mail . com

The Energy Minister says he's focused on making sure Kiwis pay reasonable prices for power. The Government's released its Policy Statement on electricity - outlining the role of the Government and the Electricity Authority. Simeon Brown says their role is ensuring correct market settings - and enabling private investment. He says the Authority's job is driving a more competitive sector that avoids excessive prices. Brown told Francesca Rudkin they don't want the Authority concerning themselves with things they don't need to. “The Electricity Authority needs to ensure that they are focused on competition, affordability and security of supply, and that they're not focused on what type of fuel is actually being used.” LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The FTC is focused on ensuring that consumers have options when it comes to repairing products. Two years ago, we summarized an FTC workshop, report, Policy Statement, and three settlements on this issue. Last week, the FTC announced that they had sent warning letters to eight companies, raising concerns about whether their warranty practices were unlawfully hindering consumers' right to repair their products. https://www.kelleydrye.com/viewpoints/blogs/ad-law-access/ftc-sends-warning-letters-over-warranty-practices Gonzalo Mon gmon@kelleydrye.com (202) 342-8576 www.kelleydrye.com/people/gonzalo-e-mon Hosted by Simone Roach Subscribe to the Ad Law Access blog - www.kelleydrye.com/subscribe Subscribe to the Ad Law News Newsletter - www.kelleydrye.com/subscribe View the Advertising and Privacy Law Resource Center - www.kelleydrye.com/advertising-and-privacy-law Find all of our links here linktr.ee/KelleyDryeAdLaw

The Reserve Bank is set to deliver its next Monetary Policy Statement regarding the OCR on Wednesday. It's expected the Bank will keep rates on hold for longer, but economists are divided on when the anticipated cuts will come. Harbour Asset Management's Shane Solly says markets are pricing in cuts, which could come between November to next February.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's latest Policy Statement on land transport will come with plenty of extra costs for drivers. The fee to register a car has gone up by $50, fuel taxes will rise by 12 cents a litre by 2027 - and 22 cents by 2029, and the new Roads of National Significance will likely be tolled. Transport Minister Simeon Brown says these price increases will cover the costs of maintaining and building roads - and contribute to the Pothole Prevention Fund. AA road safety spokesperson Dylan Thomsen has voiced approval with these changes.  "Over the next three years, this GPS is going to allow more money to be spent on road maintenance than we've seen before, significantly more." LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whooping. Spanking. Beating. Whatever you want to call it, corporal punishment was a central part of Lee's upbringing. Growing up, he was made to believe that it was a Black custom but as an adult he began wondering if it ended up doing more harm than good. In this episode, Lee speaks with Dr. Andrew Garner, a pediatrician who has studied the effects of corporal punishment on children, and how the nervous system is altered by it. Later, Lee speaks with Geoff Ward, a Professor of African and African American Studies at Washington University in St. Louis, to discuss how corporal punishment has extended beyond the home, and into schools.TranscriptWe wanted to give a heads up that this episode includes talk of abuse, and acts of violence. You can find resources on our website, WhatHappenedInAlabama.org - listener discretion is advised.Hi - this is Lee Hawkins and we're about to dive into episode seven of What Happened in Alabama. This conversation is about corporal punishment in homes and schools. Beating, spanking, whooping, whatever you call it, that's what we'll be talking about. This is very personal to me because it's how I and so many of my peers were raised. We were taught that it was not only normal, but necessary. Today we're going to get into the short and long-term effects of corporal punishment on the physical, mental, and emotional development and well-being of children, often following them into adulthood. It's a heavy and important topic But you'll get a lot more out of it if you go back and listen to the prologue - that'll give you some context for the series and this episode. Do that, and then join us back here. Thank you so much. In February 2019, I had my final interview with my dad for this project. We talked for over 3 hrs. I had a deadline to hit, and because I had so many interviews already recorded I did one final interview with him, just to get specific questions answered without having to go back through all that tape. He did the final interview – and he answered some extremely difficult questions, with compassion, regret, and especially grace.Lee: And so how did you get into the whooping thing? Like you beating us with your belt? What made.. Like, where did you get that from?Lee Sr: That I can't say. I don't know, man. It was just a, some kind of a stress that I had, evidently. Lee Sr: it's hard to say how this shit went man.Asking my dad directly about this I realized that families often repeat certain patterns and cycles from generation to generation, without understanding why or where they come from. That four year process of interviewing my father about his upbringing in 1950-era Jim Crow Alabama shined a powerful light on why I was raised the way I was. But while I had gained a better understanding of some of the historical factors that shaped my upbringing, I still needed to understand the forces that prevented my father from breaking the cycle of belt whipping when we were kids. Lee: But what were the stresses that you were going through? Lee Sr: Things that I had seen my mom had to go through with people and shit and that was hard to push it. And so when I thought you guys did something, that was when I would, you know, get out of control like I did man, because that is out of control. I don't give a fuck how you put it. It was validating to hear Dad declare that hitting children with belts was wrong, and something that he profoundly regretted, and was genuinely sorry for, because I struggled for my whole life to understand the sentiment that Black children – especially – need to be beaten, even as I accepted it. I didn't need much more than to hear my dad acknowledge that no, we didn't deserve it – Black kids or not. Lee Sr: If it was up to me and the way I feel about things, I would've never done nothing like that. But I don't know how I got out of control like that. Something was back there in my life that did that and I know it.My mom told me that there were nights that my dad came to bed and cried after those interviews. Though I never saw those tears, it doesn't surprise me. Revisiting painful memories that led my father to try to whip us into perfection out of deep love and concern was obviously excruciating for him. Despite my belief in “honor thy mother and father” and occasionally unnecessary guilt, I didn't feel obligated to shield him from the pain he caused my sister Tiffany and me at times. I accepted that the burden of his actions was not mine to carry. Expecting a victim to accept the blame for a perpetrator's actions, fearing that a grown man might cry, just isn't fair.I was determined to lead my dad down the path to finally put these generational demons to rest, for both of us and for future generations of our family. If he cried, he cried. When I heard that dad cried, I saw it as a sign of empathy but not a reason to quit researching. As children, I wept, and Tiffany wept, through the hundreds of belt whippings we received. In fact, our mother would tell us: “Stop crying or I'll give you something to really cry about.” I now realize that perpetrators rarely recognize the extent of a victim's pain because they aren't the ones being beaten.My father's tears didn't change the reality of what they had done to us. His crying may have meant he finally grasped that his childhood impacted mine more profoundly than my parents had ever acknowledged. Our pain stung so much more than the feeling of a belt to the behind.Social justice activists talk so often about how violence impacts Black bodies, but my research, and my memories of my own childhood, have shown me that violence–including within the Black family and community– can also have potentially devastating effects on Black minds—especially the minds of children.With my mental health journalism training, I now understand why I was always on edge, like my parents. They feared the world, and I feared them. Sometimes I'd go to bed fully clothed, with three layers of clothing on for extra padding, preparing for the possibility of being pulled out of bed for a forgotten chore. This made me high-strung and hard to stay calm. Around age eight, I started blinking excessively when nervous. One Sunday in the choir stand, I couldn't stop blinking. After church, one of my Dad's friends mentioned it, "I think Lee Lee's got some kind of nervous tic." Dad dismissed it as teasing, ranting to my mom about it the whole ride home.But his friend was right. My nervous system was firing like crazy. Though I excelled in spelling and reading, I struggled in math that year. My parents thought I was clowning in class and believed more beatings would improve my scores. They'd yell, "You're being the class clown for all those white friends of yours." They didn't realize I needed extra help from a teacher or tutor. Instead of focusing on math, I'd sit at my desk and worry about the belt whipping I could get for writing down a wrong answer, which made me blink even more.Neither my father nor I connected my nervousness to the beatings. We saw the belt as temporary pain. But it hijacked my entire system. As an adult, I've dealt with stress, but nothing compares to the constant stress I carried as a child. I don't know how I never developed an ulcer. Imagine an adult experiencing the unpredictability of being overpowered and whipped several times a month, then having to perform at their best the next day. That's what I went through… as an eight-year-old.What broke my heart as a child was that my mother told me that she gave my teacher permission to hit me if she wanted to. My teacher never did, but she clearly knew I was getting the belt at home. That trend of many schools failing to protect students from violence, or even exacting violence themselves, impacted me in so many ways. One clear way was the reality that my Dad rarely if ever got hit by his parents, but he did get hit plenty of times at school, which, I believed normalized the idea of child beating in his mind at a young age.And today, Alabama is one of seventeen states that still allow corporal punishment in K-12 public schools, with the schools mostly striking Black children and those with disabilities. In 2019, the Southern Poverty Law Center and the UCLA Center for Civil Rights Remedies reported that Black boys are nearly twice as likely to be hit compared to white boys, and Black girls are struck at over three times the rate of white girls. This, all despite the fact that Black students behave similarly to white ones. Today, hitting school children is legal and most prevalent in states where enslavement was legal. Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Texas represent over 70% of all corporal punishment in U.S. public schools, according to the SPLC. Children at some schools are hit nearly twice a month. Notably, during the 2015–16 school year, one Mississippi school reported 871 instances affecting 57 students, averaging 15 times per student. Another school in the same state noted 60 instances for just four students, also averaging 15 times per student. A few years back, before my dad died, my Dad and his sister, Aunt Toopie, talked about the beatings they received at school while growing up in Jim Crow AlabamaLee: Did they whoop the kids in school, was it a strict thing?Lee Sr: Yeah, we got our ass kicked every time we were late, I know that. Aunt Toopie: And stand in the corner.Lee Sr: And when you did something in class you got your ass kicked.Aunt Toopie: They had belts in school in them days.Lee Sr: They had that board of education. If I was late for school, you'd go right to the principal's office, and he'd tell your ass up about three times with that paddle, with holes in it. That paddle was a piece of oak wood, and it had varnish on it and it had holes. They had drills holes in it. It was custom made. It said board of education and he'd have you bend over and man, that thing, them holes in that thing, would leave little dots on your ass.” Being hit at school burned a permanent memory in my dad's brain - he normalized it when he became a father, handing down the Alabama-born anxiety to another generation, to me. After the conversation with my dad where he apologized for whipping my sisters and me, I tried to have a similar one with my mom. But it went very differently. "We didn't beat you,” she said. “We spanked you."I was disappointed to hear her deny how severely she and my dad beat my sister Tiffany and me. But I also understood why she would say what she did. There's almost a collective agreement in society that so-called spanking is supposedly lighter than a beating…kinder and gentler and never abusive or harmful. It's much easier to stomach the narrative that there are acceptable forms of violence to use against children; even though that same violence would never be acceptable to use against an adult. Which is why I give my dad so much credit for being honest and not trying to minimize what they did.My dad finally understood the full spectrum of damage the American whip had caused generations of our family. We often think the worst of corporal punishment are the welts and physical pain. But through my own experience and my research, I know the real pain is from the belt's access to the victim's mind. My parents didn't know these beatings and the mental stress of having to constantly look out for danger all around me, made it harder for me to focus, triggering my nervous system into fight or flight, causing bouts of anxiety that followed me into adulthood. This led me to find experts on the effects of corporal punishment on the body and mind.Dr. Garner: The thing that separates kids from adults is they're still under construction. Their brain, their physiology is still under development. And so what happens in childhood doesn't stay in childhood. That's Doctor Andrew Garner. He's a primary care pediatrician in Ohio who has studied the effect of corporal punishment on children. I wanted to talk to Dr. Garner to understand the physiological changes that occur in children when they are hit. Whether you hit them with your hand, a belt, a paddle, regardless of how hard or how often you hit them, it's all corporal punishment. I'm someone who refuses to get nostalgic about the beatings of my childhood. I would never high-five my friends and say I needed it, I loved it, or credit it as the reason I stayed out of trouble or became a productive citizen. It's not funny to me, mainly because it took me years to rewire my system. But I don't want to unfairly judge people either, especially those who don't have the information. Once I delved into history, I gained a deeper and clearer understanding of why so many people I've known—especially Black and white people from the South—have often celebrated and even laughed fondly about the use of corporal punishment. Many have no idea that, when we really look closely at America's historical foundation, hitting children is akin to setting up a system of white supremacy or a mini plantation in their living room. Later in this episode, I speak with Professor Geoff Ward, a Professor of African and African American Studies at Washington University in St. Louis, to discuss how corporal punishment has extended beyond the home into schools across the South, mainly the states and counties where slavery was legal and lynching was most prevalent. We talk about the institutionalized use of corporal punishment and how deeply ingrained it is in our history. But for now, let's get back to Dr. Garner.The conversation mentions violence and abuse against children, sensitive listeners please take care. [break]Lee: I think there are many people who believe, well, if I just hit the kid a few times on the butt with my hand, that's a spanking. If I hit a kid with a belt that's a beating, or if I don't if I hit a kid with a belt, but I don't hit them hard..as hard as the guy up the street who's hitting his kid with the extension cord, then that's not a beating. Dr. Garner: That's all violence. Right. So, you know, corporal punishment is a negative consequence, for unwanted behavior. But that negative consequence is the use of force and is intended to cause pain or discomfort. So that's violence. So, you know, whether or not you're trying to split hairs between, a spanking or a beating, it's still the use of violence to coerce, and control and modify another person's behavior. And we know that in order to continue changing that behavior, the violence needs to escalate over time. So it's a slippery slope. I can recognize this slippery slope in my own life. My parents started out with a few hits when I was little and over the years it escalated to something much more serious, to the point where getting hit with a leather belt for five minutes was normalized. In fact, their punishment increased to slaps across the face and attacks that were even more severe. And this was from two parents, who, like most of the parents we knew, felt like, if they truly loved their children, they needed to kick it into high gear and show us that life wasn't going to be fair and that nobody was coming to save us, especially because we were Black. I can see how this happens. Dr. Garner: You may think that in the short term, you're doing a good service to your child because you're trying to teach them something. But in the long run, we know the outcomes are worse. There's clear data, you know, increased risk of child abuse, because you have to eventually increase the negative stimuli to try and change the behavior. Part of the problem with corporal punishment, it's a double whammy. In addition to the anticipation, like you're saying what bad thing is going to happen to me? There's also the loss of safety, because one of the things that the the one of the ways that we buffer adversity is through relationships. And now there's, there can be a loss of trust, in the, in the relationship. And that to me is really interesting that, it's not just the, the, the fear of the pain as you were talking about. It's also the loss of trust that when is this going to happen. Where when am I safe? When am I safe? Lee: Well, never. I was never really 100% safe in my home or outside in the world. Never. There was never a time that I felt safe. And I also feel like my parents did that by design. I don't think they wanted me to ever feel safe, because I don't think they believed that a Black person in America is ever safe. So I believe that they wanted me to feel the hyper vigilance and the hyper cautiousness that they, in the generations before them, felt because they didn't believe enough in the system of America. Another thing is that when you said you have to increase the punishment if you're going to use this system, that's exactly what happened to me. And I know my dad. I know that he…lost control and did not know what he was doing. And I think at that time he got to a point where he realized, what have I done? What have I become? Dr. Garner: I think where we break down sometimes is trying to decide what's more important, you know, is it the connection or is it the structure? Well, they're both important. You need to have connection. So kids trust the instruction you're giving them. But the way I think about it is it's a lot easier to teach a kid what they should do than to keep from doing something you don't want them to do. Lee: But it's also forcing us to understand that children are multiple times smaller than adults. And so we if we apply some empathy here, we have to understand that even if you're hitting a child once or twice, you're still multiple times larger than the child, and the child may not have a bruise. Or the bruise may go away. But it's really this person who's supposed to be taking care of me, who is the only thing in this world I love, and this person who is providing meals and food and shelter for me is hitting me. Oh, he's going to hit me again. But for some reason, children have a different standing in society. They're the most vulnerable in the society, but they have the least protection. Dr. Garner: Yeah. It's crazy. The thing that separates kids from adults is they're still under construction. We know if there is significant adversity, and there aren't opportunities to turn off the body's stress response that can result in a thing called toxic stress. Right. So toxic stress is this inability to turn off the stress response. And it can literally change who we are at the behavioral, at the cellular, even at the molecular levels. We know that adversity can sort of become biologically embedded and and changing the way our genomes work. Lee: And this is just even with just hitting a child once or twice occasionally. Right? Dr. Garner: Absolutely. I mean, that's the point, is that we have to understand the way brains develop. Brain development is an experience driven event. It's the experiences that happen that drive brain development. And so the question is, what are those experiences in childhood, are they adverse in the sense that they're leading to expectancies of bad things and always being on edge, or are they nurturing to the extent that people get me? I have agency and things are going to be positive in the future. So those early experiences are truly foundational and they can influence the way we see ourselves and the way we see other people and the way we see our future.For me, belt whipping taught me not to ever trust anyone, including and especially my parents. I loved them, but I never fully trusted them and rarely confided in them. And that turned me into an adult who simply refused to trust another human being. Despite the active social life I've always had, my childhood groomed me to be a rugged individualist, putting all my trust in God and myself. I never put even an ounce of faith in the idea that another person would not be capable of betraying or letting me down. And in relationships with girlfriends -– especially if they wronged me in any way – I developed the very unfortunate ability to be able to walk away from them and never look back and never miss them. And I often wanted to be able to be vulnerable and feel some level of paralysis or regret, but I always could just keep going.The beatings also made me perfectionistic. My mantra became, “if you want something done right, do as much as you can by yourself, because most people will almost always fall short and disappoint.”At a very young age, I just adopted the posture that I was on my own, and that I should not count on anyone or expect anyone to come up with a net and try to catch me if I fell. And also I also believed that you should always keep people out of your personal business, because in most cases, they'll take your plans, your confiding in them about your most vulnerable feelings or moments, or the smallest mistakes and weaponize them to try and hurt you. And that's how my father was. And yes, he came from a family of Jim Crow survivors and had family members murdered, but I believe a lot of this view of the world I've seen in my family, especially in my case, came from being beaten as children. These beatings – and yes, I have finally given myself permission to call them abuse – just wreaked havoc on my capacity to receive love without skepticism. Even now, I mean, speaking this, I'm wondering if this revelation will somehow be used against me by somebody down the line. But at least I can recognize it now. My new mantra is, “I'm free and I'm safe.” And to be fair, I'm a lot better than I used to be, and I can't say that the skepticism hasn't helped me a great deal – especially in the media business – but I wouldn't wish that level of steel-heartedness on anyone. I asked Dr. Garner to break down what happens to a child's nervous system when they get hit or know there's a possibility they're about to get hit. He said there are three biological pathways. Dr. Garner: The most simplest and the most evolutionarily, primitive is freeze, right? So you may see that the deer in the headlights type thing. Right. And so the first temptation is to freeze, if I be small and don't move, maybe the threat will go away.The second, which you might recognize, is fight or flight. Dr. Garner: And that's where you have a release of all kinds of biological mediators. Cortisol and epinephrine, that basically make your blood pressure high, make you ready to fight or run away. Those hormones are very useful in the short term. So if you see a bear, you can run away fast. But if that if that stress response isn't turned off through the presence of safe, stable, nurturing relationships and that constant bathing in those physiologic mediators of stress is there that results in changes. Changes at the molecular level, changes at the cellular level changes the behavior that really can change who we are. And we call that toxic stress. The third response is to affiliate, that means our ability to collaborate with others, to seek help when there's a threat. It's part of the reason humans have existed so long as a species. But Tiffany and I didn't have that support. There was no escaping the belt. Dr. Garner: Where are my friends? Who's going to help me through this? The problem is, for a young child, the friend is the person who's beating you. So you've really sort of lost that that ability to turn off the stress response from an affiliate response. You're really stuck in flight or flight, and if you're constantly bed with those hormones, again, that's going to lead to a child who's going to be more defiant, more aggressive. Not be able to think things through, not be able to think about the broad perspective because you're. Constantly in fight or flight mode. You're constantly in survival mode instead of relational mode. Lee: Right? Yeah. And if you can think about this to bring some empathy in here for people to understand, if you were hitting a dog and a dog who depends on you for everything, is experiencing this toxicity in this toxic environment, you can actually see a lot of times when dogs are abused because you'll go to pet them and they kind of squirm. Sometimes they might bark, sometimes they might even try to bite you. And that's because they've been abused. Children are the same, right? I mean, children can have some of the same effects that we see, in dogs, that we empathize with. Children who are treated the same way in their home. Can have that same impact. Dr. Garner: But here's the good news. And this is the really fascinates me, is that the more we learn about the biology of adversity, the more we learn about toxic stress and how adverse experiences become biologically embedded and really affect life course trajectories. That same biology underlies how positive experiences get embedded. Right? And that that is the good news, right? So adversity is not destiny in any way, shape or form. In the last few years, there's been a really interesting thing called biobehavioral synchrony, which is a big phrase, but what it means is in those moments of magical connection that you have with another being in particularly between parent and child, there's literally an alignment of the brain waves of the autonomic functions of hormone levels and behavior. Right. And so we sort of know this intuitively that emotions can be contagious. Right? So, if a child's crying, the sibling mates are crying and specters may join an angry mob so it can go in the negative way, but can also go in a positive way, in a sense that engaged and trusted caregivers, they literally have the ability to hack in remotely and turn off the child stress response. Dr. Garner explained that you can see this in action if you look up the still face experiment on Youtube. It's a famous psychological study that was first conducted in 1975 by the psychologist Edward Tronick. Dr. Garner: Basically they take a young child about a year old, and usually it's a mother, and they bring him into the laboratory and they have three two minute blocks. The first two minute block is engaging, so they're just playing back and forth. It literally they call it serve and return - the baby coos the mom responds. And it's really this biobehavioral synchrony. You can literally see it happening for you. And then they tell the mom to turn away and then turn back and to not engage for two minutes. And if you watch the video it is viscerally painful because the child noticed there's a rupture in the synchrony and does everything they can to try and get back engaged, everything they can to get back engaged. And then they tell their mom to turn back again, and now to start to repair. And it's palpable. The children's relief immediately. Oh, we're back again. You're back again? I'm safe. You got me. The important thing is, is there repair, right? And the most recent evidence suggests that it's the latency to repair that's associated with secure attachments and distress tolerance, that ability to say the goodness is coming. We're going to get back together again. It's really, really important. And so, again, that's great news for parents. We're not going to be perfect. We're all going to make mistakes as parents. We can't always be perfectly engaged. The important thing is it's all about repair. It's the ability to come back and become back engaged and basically be saying that, child, your perspective is important to me. The relationship's important to me. And it's way more important for me to be kind than right. Lee: Yeah. And I think that that's one of the challenges for me as part of people from the African-American community who had my experience. For me, knowing that my parents loved me and knowing that that love could be shown, but then the next minute I could be being beaten with the belt. And then they're loving me again. And then I'm beaten with the bel,t going back and forth. I do wonder…I do believe that there were there were some kind of protection outcomes that came from the love that was shown, but the unpredictability of it was, was very difficult because the relationship to violence was weird. Like it because violence was almost framed as love. Dr. Garner: Yeah. That's one of the one of the big paradoxes, I think, of corporal punishment is that having been a victim of corporal punishment, that increases your risk of being a victim of other physical violence down the line, which is sort of counterintuitive. But I think it gets at what you were saying there is that leads to what those expectations of what love are.And throughout my research, I found disturbing instances where enslavers used Bible verses to justify corporal punishment and enslavement. This deeply troubled me as both a Christian and a Black man. I've often heard the phrase "Spare the rod, spoil the child," which, contrary to widespread belief, isn't even in the Bible. And even still, this metaphorical use emphasizes guidance and care rather than punishment. Dr Garner's wife is a Methodist pastor, and I talked to him about how people have often manipulated and weaponized scriptures and proverbs to justify and advance slavery, whipping, and their own agendas. As a result, generations of people have come to believe that it is moral, righteous, and holy to beat children. Dr. Garner: I think it's very upsetting when, these scriptures are being used in a way to propagate violence, when clearly that is not what Christ's intention was. He said, bring the children to me. Bring the children to me. Right. He didn't say, bring them to me so I can whip them. Right. Said, be like a child. Be be like a child. Be empathic. Be full of wonder. Right. And somehow we sort of lost that. So, discipline, you know, comes from the Latin word to teach. Right? So it doesn't mean to punish. Right. And of course there are multiple types of punishment, which actually runs the spectrum right from, a loss of privileges, right. So, you know, if you, you lose your driver's license, if you speed too much, right, to possible incarceration and then all the way to physical harm and even even death. Right? So punishment is the, are those negative consequences. They're imposed for undesired behavior. But punishment is only one form of discipline. And the more we know about it, the more we know it's actually not as effective in the long term and actually can cause potential harm. Lee: And what I love about this research that you've done in everything that you're sharing with us today, is that you're showing that a child's brain is being wired as we go, right, that we're creating the future adult every day when we're working with that child. What do stress toxins do to the body in terms of health? Dr. Garner: Toxic stress, which can be precipitated by any number of different forms of adversity, is associated with basically all of the leading causes of death. Right? So if you want to look at, asthma, you want to look at cancer, do you want to look at suicide and mental health issues. You want to look at obesity. You want to look at substance abuse. Right. So I mean, there's no doubt that, when we are programmed to expect adversity, that we're going to find ways to try and cope. And so if you think about it, you know, people overeat and abuse substances and, are promiscuous for a reason. In the short term, they turn off the stress response. But in the long term, the worse health outcomes down the line. Right. And so, yeah, I mean, I think your point, though, that the brain is, is being made over time is really important, and so are the relationships. And so one way I think to try and frame all of this is affect regulation, how we handle our emotions. Because if you have an angry parent who's spanking a child, the message to the child is when you get angry, it's okay to hit right. And so, that's not what we really want for our kids in the long run. We actually want them, to learn that it's okay to have strong emotions. It's okay to be angry. It's okay to be frustrated. But when you have those emotions, what can we do with them? How can we channel them? Dr. Garner has worked with parents and treated children as a Primary Care Pediatrician for more than two decades. He co-authored the book "Thinking Developmentally: Nurturing Wellness in Childhood to Promote Lifelong Health" and the American Academy of Pediatrics' Policy Statement on Preventing Childhood Toxic Stress and Promoting Relational Health. As a speaker, he focuses on early brain and child development, preventing childhood toxic stress, and promoting early relational health, and he considers himself to be an advocate for all children and their families. Lee: And what do you tell parents when they bring their children in to be treated about corporal punishment? Dr. Garner: One, to heal any wounds that they've had as a parent? Because we've talked before, parents tend to parent the way they were parented. So, I'm going to want to know, what the stressors are in their life with, what the stressors were when they were kids. What a good question often is, what, did your parents do that you want to make sure you do for your kids? But then also, what are the things your parents did that you want to make sure you never do for your kids? As kids get older, I'm going to help them understand, that it's really not the behavior you want to focus on. That a child's behavior is always telling us there's something they need or something they want. And what we need to do is trying to interpret it and help them figure out a better way to have that behavior met. And so this starts really early, you know, with temper tantrums in 3 or 4 year olds. It's really not about the behavior. It's the emotion that's driving the behavior. And if we can help parents understand that, then we can help parents help their child say, look, you're allowed to be angry. You're allowed to be frustrated, allowed to be disappointed. But when that happens, we're not going to yell and scream. We're going to do the things that bring us joy. We're going to try and, spend some time doing some Legos or some coloring, teach them how to cope instead of just saying stop. The problem with, with corporal punishment and all punishments is it's basically saying, don't do this, don't do this, don't do this. And then the child, then in, in sort of in their own mind, thinks there's something wrong with me. Because I feel this way and the message needs to be, you're allowed to feel that way, but when you feel that way, do this instead. If the parent is able to say, I'm so sorry I lost it, I'm so sorry I used those harsh words. I'm so sorry I was demeaning. I'm going to try better and we're going to work together to build this relationship. Then that's what those kids are going to do someday, right? I mean, I tell kids that empathy is a superpower. It is an absolute superpower. Not everyone has it, but we can teach it. And when you have it that allows you to repair, that allows you to have relationships. After speaking with Dr. Garner I want to believe that if more well-meaning parents knew hitting their children can also harm their brains and emotional health as opposed to just being temporarily painful, fewer would do it. However, in a country where hitting children is part of a centuries-long pattern of violence, and amid a system that offers the smallest people the least protection, I understand why many believe hitting children is beneficial, especially for Black children.But now that I'm out of that situation, I do view it as abuse and a legacy of my country's legal system and culture, and the enslavement and torture of my people. And it's not just in the home - in 17 states across the U.S. corporal punishment is legal in public schools. Most of these states allow educators to hit students three times in the rear with a long wooden board. And in all states except for just a few, corporal punishment is allowed in private schools.To help me understand it more I reached out to Professor Geoff Ward at Washington University in St Louis. He's a historical sociologist and the director of the Washington Slavery Project. Some of his work connects the dots between the history of lynching in southern states with the modern usage of corporal punishment in schools today. I've had a couple conversations with Professor Ward, the first time was about 2020. I spoke to him again more recently to learn more about the logic of racial violence, how it intersects with our judicial system and how we can break the cycles of racial violence. Lee: You know, before when we talked, we talked a lot about racialized social control. Can you give us a definition, to hold on to here? Prof. Ward: I think a good place to start would be is to recognize that we live in a racialized social system, a society where rewards are allocated along racial lines, where meaning is constructed along racial lines, things like, you know, reliability or, beauty, or intelligence, morality, are riddled with racial logic because we live in a society where race has sort of been infused in the way we relate to and understand each other, the way the society has been organized. And in that context, social control becomes racialized. And social control generally describes the definition and enforcement of norms. And social control can be informal, you know, a sideways glance or a disapproving look. But we also have systems of formal control. And that brings in the State. And our regulatory systems, our courts, our criminal legal system and so forth that are part of the system of social control. And, you know, all of that complex is racialized.I remember reading Professor Ward's work and being shocked by his citation of a 1901 Alabama constitutional debate over the legality of whipping prisoners, in which a county official remarked that “everybody knows the character of a Negro and knows that there is no punishment in the world that can take the place of the lash with him.” And he noted, that juvenile court records from 1930s-era North Carolina reveal that court-ordered whippings were reserved almost exclusively for Black boys and girls, given “widespread feelings among white county juvenile court judges that whipping is the most effective way of handling delinquent Negros."Another court official noted a common diversionary practice of “sendingdelinquent Black boys downstairs with a big police officer to have themflogged” prior to release.Prof. Ward: So this was a an example we, we used from the historical record in the article I mentioned where we examined how histories of racist violence, particularly lynching, relate to patterns of corporal punishment in contemporary public schools. Where we found that, that net of other factors, every additional lynching in the history of a county increased significantly the odds that a child would be corporally punished in a school in that county. This was after accounting for things like how, the funding of the school, the racial makeup of the school, whether it's urban or rural, how experienced the teachers are, how religiously conservative the residents of the county are, and so forth. And in that article, we used the story you're referring to to provide some context for how this relationship could come to exist. How is it that contemporary schools, likelihood of using violent strategies of school discipline has anything to do with the history of slavery or lynching in in that county? What is the story there? What are the mechanisms that connect the past to the present? And we cited that example because it speaks to the racial logic of corporal punishment, the idea that African-Americans are not fully human, are not sentient beings, can cannot be, influenced through, you know, appeals to things like morality or decency or logic, you know, white supremacism historically asserted that that Black people could not think deeply about anything. And so you and so this what this judge is saying in this case and we found numerous examples of this, judges, legislators, you know, rationalizing corporal punishment. And was saying that, you have to appeal, you have to reach, you have to address African-Americans through pain. Lee: Yeah. Prof. Ward: Because, because the you can't reach them through the brain. Lee: Yes. And and what I love about your research is that you've really just blown the doors off of this and shown that the public record is full of governmental rationalizations of violence against Blacks, even after emancipation. you show that African-Americans have always been framed as warranting more violent control strategies. And this is deeply rooted in the idea that we are not fully human. Is that something that you just have seen all through your research? Prof. Ward: Well, yeah, it is, I know it has to also be said that that, you know, racialized social systems are contested. You know, this this idea, this attempt to dehumanize African Americans, never actually fully succeeded. It resulted in a tremendous amount of oppression and pain and violence and death and so forth. But, simultaneously, you know, my research is also showing that Black communities and their allies are countering these measures. But even with respect to the juvenile justice system in my book, ‘The Black Child-Savers' is mostly about how generations of Black women organized, beginning in the 1890s, to dismantle this Jim Crow juvenile justice system. And, they were fundamentally motivated by their own recognition that Black children and people were, in fact, fully human and fully capable of realizing the benefits of a more enlightened approach to social control. One that focused on, on child welfare and development. You know, the system that was being developed for white kids, who were not being subject as much to this, yeah, this brutality. And so they did create, you know, other kinds of institutions and practices that also have to be kept in mind as we think about the sort of how this history unfolded. Lee: You talk about the connection between corporal punishment and the history of lynching, which is really an incredible contribution to this body of work. Lee: Are you still seeing the trend in which, historical areas where lynching was the most prevalent tend to correspond to the amount of corporal punishment that's being done in a particular school district? Prof. Ward: There certainly have been study after study showing that that that histories, area histories of lynching and other racialized violence, predict contemporary patterns of of conflict and violence and inequality. Things like, Black victim homicide rates today and, patterns of vote suppression and white supremacist mobilization, you know, and, white political conservativism, things like Black infant mortality or racially disparate infant mortality, differences in heart disease. I mean, all kinds of contemporary outcomes have been shown by social scientists to be associated with histories of racial violence in, in specific areas. So I would I would imagine that, you know, that that the relationships we saw with respect to corporal punishment in schools, have not suddenly gone away. Understanding how governmental institutions have historically ensured that Black children are subjected to corporal punishment, including in schools, helps me see why my parents feared they had to use violence to protect me. They were conditioned by a system of legal white supremacy to equate violence with love. Like agents of the state, they and generations of Black parents saw violence as a necessity, convinced that nonviolent reasoning wouldn't work with a Black boy.As a result, while my parents were opposed to police violence, they turned our living room into a whipping station, becoming indirect agents of the very police brutality our people protested. Each generation in my family had a hypervisible white police officer who symbolized the need to beat Black children. For my father's generation, it was Birmingham's white supremacist "Commissioner of Public Safety" Bull Connor. In my generation, it was the officers who brutalized Rodney King, and epithet using Officer Mark Fuhrman from the O.J. Simpson trial. For Millennials and Gen Z, it's Derek Chauvin, who murdered George Floyd. It felt as if my parents unconsciously partnered with America's most racist police elements to enforce violence and keep their Black son in line.As I delved deeper, I saw similar patterns among some Black educators and religious leaders. Despite the disproportionate use of corporal punishment against Black children, many administrators and school board members advocated for its use. Legendary psychiatry professor Alvin Pouissaint once told me he once traveled to the South to lobby for the repeal of corporal punishment, only to find that Black educators and leaders were some of its most vocal proponents. One of the school board members who once adamantly advocated for corporal punishment in Mississippi was also a prominent pastor in the Black church. He was one of the many people I'd studied who used the Bible to justify their pro corporal punishment stance Prof. Ward: I think one of the issues here, which relates to what we're talking about in terms of Black religious leaders, is there's an issue here of a kind of sovereignty where local community figures in a context of generally diminished power, economic power, political power, are holding on to a form of power that they do have, which is in the home, through the church, and saying, look, don't, let this, you know, social research fool you. And don't listen to these people who aren't from here and don't know our ways and aren't part of our church. We know what works, we've been whipped and we're fine, and listen to me, and I think there is a fair amount of, you know, manipulation on this issue that is about really about power. About holding on to power, holding onto power in community context, but also asserting power, as you mentioned, in the context of the home. In a society where, you know, there is so much humiliation and alienation, and and refusal of influence on things like, policy and practice and so forth. We commemorated Doctor Martin Luther King Junior, and I was part of an event at my university where we specifically focused on his theme - beloved community. And, our conversation is making me think about, you know, some of the basic, you know, fundamental, tenets of this concept of beloved community, which include that we are stuck in a society marked by, you know, a chain of violence, you know, where we're just in this situation where violence is seemingly a constant. It's almost how we communicate. He talked about how our society is organized by fear and resentment and that fear, you know, the politics of fear and resentment... We for good reason often in that in that context, think about, you know, white reactionary politics. But but our conversation today is also about how fear and resentment contribute to other communities and, and their politics and that are, that are part of this larger chain of violence. If we're ever going to realize this idea of a beloved community, you know, that is a community organized by mutual understanding and universal goodwill. And King, King stressed that to get there, we'd have to reckon with these realities of how our politics of difference breed violence, breed fear and resentment. We'd have to get to a place of mutual understanding and goodwill and, and, you know, for example, to see our to see how, we have common interests in an issue like corporal punishment, whether it affects us directly or not, we have interest in creating a society where we aren't, reifying a culture of violence starting in the high chair, or assuming that there is also going to be an electric chair. How do we get to that place where we collectively disavow, violence as a means of social organization? Lee: Geoff Ward, thank you so much. This has been powerful. And we'll keep the dialog going. But thank you for the wonderful work that you're doing. Fabulous. Keep up the good work. Prof. Ward: Thank you. Lee, it's great to talk to you again. Lee: All right, brother.For years, I had an inner voice that told me, "My parents hate me." So much around us in America, from Black comedians who entertain and electrify crowds with their jokes about beating Black kids, tells us that there is often great contempt for Black children – that they hold the lowest standing in society and therefore should be violently punished with impunity. It takes a countercultural, conscious Black parent to see that every Black child deserves life, liberty, happiness, and positive reinforcement every day.These interviews helped me understand that the first step towards breaking this toxic belief—that violence with Black children is a necessity—is recognizing that they possess bodily integrity and innate intelligence and are neither superhuman nor subhuman, even if the broader society doesn't always see them in that light. We must be careful about internalizing the historical belief that Black children are built differently than white children and can endure more pain. The reams of science proving that corporal punishment has harmful long-term effects apply to them too. I believe that my parents and others unconsciously internalized these classically American beliefs about Black children. We have experienced every facet of America, from its deepest injustices to its greatest achievements. Because of that, it is easy to embrace the prevailing philosophies of this country that we played a heavy hand in building—we are deeply interwoven with its history and its belief system. But those who continue to advocate violence against Black children in homes and schools must reject those racist beliefs and instead embrace a new paradigm that sees and nurtures the full potential and worth of our children.There's a gospel song that says, “He saw the best in me when everyone else around could only see the worst in me.” We need more Black parents and communities to take the lead in seeing the best in our children. I hope that, armed with information about the generational and ongoing cycle of governmentally codified violence against our children, combined with the ever-evolving neuroscience showing that even the anticipation of being beaten can trigger the brain in ways that lead to anxiety in adulthood, more parents—Black and of all races—and school administrators will make a conscious decision to retire the hand, tree branch, belt, and wooden boards of the slavery and Jim Crow eras. We need to breathe life and affirmation into all children, ensuring they grow up with the support and validation they need to thrive, both at home and in society.If corporal punishment was designed to protect Black children, did it really help when it came to growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood? Black kids and the American Dream - that's the next episode of What Happened In Alabama…CREDITSWhat Happened In Alabama is a production of American Public Media. It's written, produced and hosted by me, Lee Hawkins.Our executive producer is Erica Kraus. Our senior producer is Kyana Moghadam.Our story editor is Martina Abrahams Ilunga. Our lead writer is Jessica Kariisa.Our producers are Marcel Malekebu and Jessica Kariisa. This episode was sound designed and mixed by Marcel Malekebu. Our technical director is Derek Ramirez. Our soundtrack was composed by Ronen Lando. Our fact checker is Erika Janik.And Nick Ryan is our director of operations.Special thanks to the O'Brien Fellowship for Public Service Journalism at Marquette University; Dave Umhoefer, John Leuzzi, Andrew Amouzou and Ziyang Fu. And also thanks to our producer in Alabama, Cody Short. The executives in charge at APM are Joanne Griffith and Chandra Kavati.You can follow us on our website, whathappenedinalabama.org or on Instagram at APM Studios.Thank you for listening.

DreamDev Technologies, a software company from Kildare who have developed a new AI augmented platform helping companies to significantly increase their product's time to market, have been named Overall Winner at this year's National Enterprise Awards last night. DreamDev Technologies, established by Eoin Barry and Douglas Augiar, are the third Kildare winner of the National Enterprise of the Year Award in the last six years following on from Terra NutriTech in 2018 and Pestle & Mortar in 2019. The Awards, which are an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices to celebrate the best small businesses in Ireland, were held at the Round Room in the Mansion House in Dublin in what is their 24th year. Peter Burke, T.D., Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, announced this year's winners in front of representatives from the Local Enterprise Offices, Enterprise Ireland and the Local Authorities and small businesses from across the country at the event. DreamDev was set up in 2019 with the aim of utilising online tools and software to enable faster digitalisation for companies. Their flagship product, 'the dot-star enterprise' software platform enables software engineering teams to create their own bespoke software programmes which deliver results with significantly reduced resourcing requirements. Announcing the award winners at the Mansion House and after earlier launching the new Local Enterprise Office Policy Statement, Minister Burke said; "The National Enterprise Awards are the highlight of the small business and enterprise calendar. Year on year the diversity of businesses and the standard of companies that are coming through the process is getting stronger. We should not be surprised given the innovation and endurance that businesses have shown in recent years. We have some outstanding winners but the finalists on the whole have been excellent, and this is very much the start of their journey. "The new Local Enterprise Office Policy Statement I announced today sets out the vital role that LEOs have in fostering entrepreneurship and helping small businesses thrive every day across the country. The Policy Statement charts a clear roadmap of how LEOs will align their work with the priorities of the White Paper on Enterprise and ensure that their high-calibre offering continues into the future. I pay tribute to the great work of the current and former staff of the LEOs who, over the last 10 years, have helped and guided small businesses in Ireland which are at the heart of every town, village and community and are vital to our economy." John Magee, Chair of the network of Local Enterprise Offices, said; "The National Enterprise Awards are the standard bearer for the very best of small businesses in Ireland. You can see from previous winners that this is the first step on a bigger journey and it opens many doors for them nationally and internationally. Across the Finalists and winners you see a great diversity of businesses covering a range of sectors. The entrepreneurship eco-system is extremely healthy and these businesses are a testament to that. "These entrepreneurs are inspired to create businesses and employment in their own areas and to establish businesses that can not only compete here but globally. It's a honour to be able to work with these businesses on a day-to-day basis and we look forward to seeing what all the finalists do in the coming years." There were several other category winners announced on the night. Innovation Award The winner of the Innovation Award was Cytidel. The cybersecurity company, supported by Local Enterprise Office Mayo, has created software that helps cybersecurity teams to identify and prioritise the top cyber threats to a company. Best Export Award The winner of the Best Export Award was Eskimo Software. The company, who are supported by Local Enterprise Office Carlow, have created a CRM and lead generation software package specifically for car dealerships to improve efficiency and...

In a joint letter to Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey, a group of leading mental health organisations are protesting at what they're calling "bad economics" - the Government's "glaring omission" of mental health and addiction as priority areas in its recent budget policy statement. Ruth Hill reports.

Dr. Hassink is joined by Dr. Michelle J. White, MD, MPH a primary author on the new policy statement, The Built Environment and Pediatric Health. Related Resources: • Policy Statement: The Built Environment and Pediatric Health (https://tinyurl.com/5yx4wbkd) • AAP News: Community design that includes parks, safe routes, green space contributes to child health, equity (https://tinyurl.com/52re542y) • Building Healthy Places for Children to Thrive: AAP Policy Explained (https://tinyurl.com/yckxdz55) • Webinar: The Interconnection Between Obesity Physiology, Genetics and the Environment (https://tinyurl.com/bdce39uv)

Speaking to Newstalk ZB's Mike Hosking this morning, Finance Minister Nicola Willis said she wants to stick to her $3.5 billion promise for her budget.  ”In terms of the economy, we've got the treasury forecasts still coming in.  ”In terms of discussions with coalition partners and ministers, I'm still having budget bilaterals.”  Willis said the economy was very slow, and that makes things “tough.”  ”It's fair to say the shape of the budget is shaping up, it's looking good, I'm confident it's all coming together well.”  Hosking disagreed and said he thought it was looking dreadful because we are in a recession.  ”The budget is looking like a budget that will bring together the small crumbs we have at the back of the cupboard.”  Willis said her priority was tax relief for “working people.”  ”We are a country that is finding it very hard for businesses to grow.”  Hosking asked Willis if she was surprised by criticism of her government's planned tax cuts.  “Some people just do not like tax reduction, they can see a long list of things they'd like to see the government spending money on and they think that's more important than something I think is a basic principle, which is that New Zealanders get up, they work hard and they deserve to keep more of their own money.”  Willis said New Zealand hasn't “had any changes to tax brackets or thresholds in fourteen years.”  This isn't true, last year the Labour government introduced new top rate of 39%, but only on income earned above $180,000.  Nicola Willis has conceded she won't be able to get the Government's finances back in shape as quickly as expected, while delivering tax cuts, which may not end up looking as attractive as National promised before the election.  Hosking asked Willis why she wasn't going harder on the surplus.  ”The numbers are the numbers,” she said.  ”We could choose to overreact to them, and do incredibly dramatic things... but we don't want to be radical in that way.”  Releasing her Budget Policy Statement yesterday afternoon - a preview of the May 30 Budget - the Finance Minister emphasised the extent to which economic growth is expected to be slower than expected in December.  Consequently, the Government's tax take is likely to underperform, meaning the Government won't get its books back in surplus by 2026/27 as expected in December, and as National campaigned on before the election. In fact, the books are still likely to be in the red in 2027/28.  While Willis highlighted her commitment to being a prudent manager of the country's finances, she said she wouldn't chase a surplus at any cost - particularly if that cost was borne by frontline public services.  Willis didn't do what finance ministers tend to do during Budget Policy Statements and unveil the likely size of the upcoming Budget.  She didn't include her expected operating allowance in the statement - the figure that's typically seen to be the centrepiece of a Budget Policy Statement.  Rather, she kept things broad, saying her operating allowance would be less than the $3.5 billion figure pencilled in by the previous Government.  In other words, she will increase expenditure on day-to-day operating costs by less than $3.5b (net) in Budget 2024.  As for capital expenditure, on things like infrastructure, Willis said the Government will top up the multi-year capital allowance by up to $7b, with the final number to be confirmed at the Budget.  Coming back to the income tax cuts, Willis avoided confirming whether these would look the same as what National campaigned on ahead of the election.  She said they would be targeted at lower and middle-income earners and take effect on July 1 - as previously signalled.  Act Party leader David Seymour said the income tax changes hadn't gone through Cabinet yet.  “We're always jostling with our coalition partners, but on the tax issue, I think we're at a reasonable place,” he said.  Willis assured the Government wouldn't need to borrow more to deliver tax cuts.  “Tax reductions will be funded by reprioritisation, savings and new revenue measures, and this package will not add to debt,” the Budget Policy Statement said.  Willis didn't believe the “new revenue measures” (which could include taxes, levies, fees, etc) would surprise the public.  Taking a step back, the Budget Policy Statement said the Government aimed to put net core Crown debt on a “downward trajectory towards 40 per cent [of GDP]” over the next four years.  In the year to June 2023, net core Crown debt was worth 39 per cent of GDP. In December, the Treasury forecast it rising to a peak of 44 per cent of GDP this year.  Longer term, Willis said her goal was to ensure net core Crown debt sits between 20 and 40 per cent of GDP - a fairly wide range.  Former Finance Minister Grant Robertson got net core Crown debt to below 20 per cent before Covid-19.  Jenee Tibshraeny is the Herald's Wellington business editor, based in the parliamentary press gallery. She specialises in government and Reserve Bank policymaking, economics and banking. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Finance Minister is still adamant that the Government will stick to their tax cut plans. Nicola Willis today unveiled the Budget Policy Statement, which broke with normal convention and did not include how much extra spending the Government will take on at the budget. Willis says despite a worse than expected set of fiscal forecasts, tax cuts are still coming in July. ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says Willis didn't say whether the tax cuts would resemble the ones promised to voters in 2023. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Finance Minister says she'll confirm in the Budget how much extra the Government will have to spend - although she's still promising tax cuts in July.Nicola Willis broke convention today when delivering the Budget Policy Statement by not detailing the operating allowance. She says the number will be lower than $3.5 billion dollars previously forecast. But Willis says she's not fazed to be straying from the norm. "Grant Robertson has a practise where he announced the number six months out, and then he'd deliver a completely different number on Budget Day. And I don't think that's particularly helpful, I want to be more reliable than that." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One expert has labelled the Government's Budget Policy Statement a 'sobering reality check' with no surprises. The Finance Minister says a surplus is unlikely to happen by 2026/27 and Treasury has warned the economy will slow down- forcing the Government to borrow more. NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny unpacks what this could mean for the proposed tax cuts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's budget policy statement will be out on Wednesday. Expectations are that it will highlight an economy going backwards, and hint at a delay in reaching surplus and more borrowing. RNZ business editor Gyles Beckford spoke to Corin Dann.

In this Complex Care Journal Club podcast episode, Dr. Ulfat Shaikh discusses the development of an implementation toolkit to prevent medication errors in the home and community using quality improvement methodology. She describes the process of translating recommendations from a policy statement into practice, opportunities for collaboration with the Council on Quality Improvement and Patient Safety, and next steps from this work. SPEAKER Ulfat Shaikh, MD, MPH, MS Professor of Pediatrics and Medical Director for Healthcare Quality University of California Davis Health HOST Kristina Malik, MD Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine Medical Director, KidStreet Pediatrician, Special Care Clinic, Children's Hospital Colorado DATES Initial publication: March 11, 2024. JOURNAL CLUB ARTICLE Shaikh U, Kim JM, Yin SH. Implementing Strategies to Prevent Home Medication Administration Errors in Children With Medical Complexity. Clin Pediatr (Phila). 2023 Aug 29:99228231196750. doi: 10.1177/00099228231196750. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37644803. OTHER ARTICLES REFERENCED Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Health Literacy Universal Precautions Toolkit, 3rd Edition. Use the Teach-Back Method: Tool 5. Content last reviewed February 2024. https://www.ahrq.gov/health-literacy/improve/precautions/tool5.html‌ ‌‌American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Quality Improvement and Patient Safety. Preventing home medication administration errors implementation resources. Published November/December 2021. Accessed August 16, 2023. bit.ly/44kK68W.‌ ‌ ‌Yin HS, Neuspiel DR, Paul IM, Franklin W, Tieder JS, Adirim T, Alvarez F, Brown JM, Bundy DG, Ferguson LE, Gleeson SP, Leu M, Mueller BU, Connor Phillips S, Quinonez RA, Rea C, Rinke ML, Shaikh U, Shiffman RN, Vickers Saarel E, Spencer Cockerham SP, Mack Walsh K, Jones B, Adler AC, Foster JH, Green TP, Houck CS, Laughon MM, Neville K, Reigart JR, Shenoi R, Sullivan JE, Van Den Anker JN, Verhoef PA. Preventing Home Medication Administration Errors. Pediatrics. 2021 Dec 1;148(6):e2021054666. doi: 10.1542/peds.2021-054666. PMID: 34851406. TRANSCRIPT https://op-docebo-images.s3.amazonaws.com/Transcripts/Preventing+Pediatric+Medication+Errors+at+Home_Shaikh_030824.pdf Clinicians across healthcare professions, advocates, researchers, and patients/families are all encouraged to engage and provide feedback! You can recommend an article for discussion using this form: https://forms.gle/Bdxb86Sw5qq1uFhW6 Please visit: http://www.openpediatrics.org OPENPediatrics™ is an interactive digital learning platform for healthcare clinicians sponsored by Boston Children's Hospital and in collaboration with the World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Societies. It is designed to promote the exchange of knowledge between healthcare providers around the world caring for critically ill children in all resource settings. The content includes internationally recognized experts teaching the full range of topics on the care of critically ill children. All content is peer-reviewed and open access-and thus at no expense to the user.For further information on how to enroll, please email: openpediatrics@childrens.harvard.edu CITATION Shaikh U, Malik K. Preventing Pediatric Medication Errors at Home: Putting a Policy Statement into Practice. 3/2024. OPENPediatrics. Online Podcast. https://soundcloud.com/openpediatrics/preventing-pediatric-medication-errors-at-home-putting-a-policy-statement-into-practice

Te Pūtea Matua governor Adrian Orr joins Bernard to discuss the bank's decision to hold the official cash rate at 5.5%, rather than hiking it further in an attempt to control rampant inflation (which is still roughly double where the RBNZ wants it). Listen in to hear the governor's reasoning behind the cash rate hold, his thoughts on New Zealand's record net migration and whether the government's decision to remove the bank's inflation/unemployment dual mandate earlier in the year has made any meaningful difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen in for more on why you need an investment policy statement and how it can be a generational tool for good in your family!  Please check out and subscribe to my Youtube Channel and Newsletter! JOSH KLOOZ, CFP®, MBA WEALTH ADVISOR Phone 281.719.0036 Text 281.699.8691 Fax 281.719.0156 jklooz@carsonwealth.com 1780 Hughes Landing | Suite 570 The Woodlands, TX 77380 Music by bensound.com

NCUA Chairman Todd M. Harper's Written Testimony Before the House Financial Services CommitteeNCUA Chairman Todd M. Harper testifying before the House Financial Services Committee in 2023.Chairman McHenry, Ranking Member Waters, and members of the committee, thank you for inviting me to discuss the work of the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).The NCUA insures deposits at federally insured credit unions, protects credit union members, and charters and regulates federal credit unions. The NCUA also protects the safety and soundness of the credit union system by identifying, monitoring, and managing risks to the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (Share Insurance Fund). In my testimony today, I will discuss the state of the credit union system, recent efforts by the agency to strengthen the system, and several legislative requests.State of the Credit Union SystemThe credit union system over the last year has remained largely stable in its performance and relatively resilient against economic disruptions. However, during the last few quarters, the NCUA has seen growing signs of financial strain on credit union balance sheets and in household budgets. Economists are also forecasting an economic slowdown as the lagged effects of elevated interest rates take hold. Each of these developments could affect credit union performance in the coming quarters.Over the same period, the NCUA has also seen growing stress within the system because of a rise in interest rate and liquidity risks. In fact, this financial stress is reflected in the increasing number of composite CAMELS code 3, 4, and 5 credit unions.1 Assets in composite CAMELS code 3 institutions increased sizably in the second quarter, especially among those complex credit unions with more than $500 million in assets. Such increases may well continue in future quarters. We have additionally seen more credit unions fall into the composite CAMELS code 4 and 5 ratings during the second quarter.Credit Union System PerformanceAs of June 30, 2023, the system's net worth ratio stood at 10.63 percent. There was continued year-over-year growth in assets and lending, with system assets surpassing $2.2 trillion and outstanding loans at more than $1.5 trillion. Although insured shares and deposits decreased slightly compared to the previous quarter, they stood almost 2 percent higher than one year earlier.Second quarter data also demonstrate some indications of growing consumer financial stress. The delinquency rate for loans rose slightly to 63 basis points, although it remains below historic averages. Credit cards and automobile loans, however, show increased delinquency levels at 154 and 67 basis points, respectively. Additionally, net charge-off levels have risen over the last year, returning to pre-pandemic averages.Additionally, funding costs for credit unions have increased significantly in the rising interest rate environment. Credit unions have increased their issuances of time deposits, leading to total interest expenses growing substantially over the year. However, the industry's return on average assets remains sound at 79 basis points. Together, these numbers show the credit union system continues to rest on a solid footing.External Factors Affecting the SystemThe NCUA is closely monitoring the financial markets and the economy as the current environment has created challenges for some consumers and credit unions. Inflation and interest rates are affecting household budgets, which could lead to an increase in credit risk in future quarters. In addition, the prevalence of hybrid work environments has placed pressure on commercial real estate lending. While the credit union system overall has modest exposure to this type of lending, the NCUA is closely monitoring individual credit unions with material exposure to commercial real estate.The rise in interest rates has also increased liquidity and interest rate risks in the credit union system, including at several of the 421 federally insured credit unions with more than $1 billion in assets. Accordingly, the NCUA has emphasized the importance of liquidity risk management and contingency planning in its industry communications and will continue to ensure credit unions conduct liquidity and asset-liability management planning to address current challenges and future uncertainties.With respect to all these risks and to protect the Share Insurance Fund against potential losses, the NCUA will continue to vigilantly monitor credit union performance through the examination process, offsite monitoring, and tailored supervision. The NCUA will also, when appropriate, take action to protect credit union members and their deposits.Share Insurance Fund PerformanceBacked by the full faith and credit of the United States, the Share Insurance Fund provides insurance coverage for individual accounts at federally insured credit unions up to $250,000.2 As of June 30, 2023, the Share Insurance Fund insured $1.7 trillion in deposits and shares. Notably, the Share Insurance Fund protects nearly 92 percent of total share deposits in the credit union system. In comparison, uninsured shares and deposits equaled approximately $160 billion in the second quarter or 8 percent of total share deposits.The Share Insurance Fund continues to perform well, with no premiums currently expected. As of June 30, 2023, the Share Insurance Fund reported a year-to-date net income of $79 million, a net position of $20.3 billion, and an equity ratio of 1.27 percent.3 The NCUA projects that the equity ratio of the Share Insurance Fund will end the year at 1.27 percent, which is sufficient but below the 1.33 percent normal operating level target set by the NCUA Board.Given the liquidity events in 2023, economic conditions, and the growing stress in the credit union system from liquidity and interest rate risks, the NCUA Board decided to build up the liquidity position of the Share Insurance Fund to a targeted amount of $4 billion. The Share Insurance Fund reached that target in September. The NCUA Board continues to monitor liquidity in the Share Insurance Fund.State of the Central Liquidity FacilityThe COVID-19 pandemic, inflationary pressures, interest rate volatility, and liquidity risk have all underscored the importance of the NCUA's Central Liquidity Facility (CLF).4 The CLF is an important tool and acts as a shock absorber when unexpected liquidity events occur.Under the NCUA's regulations, credit unions with assets more than $250 million must have access to a federal emergency liquidity source as part of their contingency funding plans. This federal emergency liquidity backstop can be the CLF, the Federal Reserve's Discount Window, or both. Credit unions with less than $250 million in assets are not required to have membership with a contingent federal liquidity source; however, they must identify external sources as part of their liquidity policy.5As of September 30, 2023, the CLF had 399 consumer credit union members, providing $19.8 billion in lending capacity. These credit unions range in asset size from less than $50 million to more than $10 billion. Their access to the CLF helps protect approximately $360 billion in credit union members' assets.The more members the CLF has, the more effective it is as a liquidity facility. As of December 2022, the CLF had a much greater total membership of 3,673 consumer credit unions with a combined $537 billion in member assets and a lending capacity of $27.5 billion. This rapid decline in membership assets followed the expiration of the temporary statutory enhancements that: Increased the CLF's maximum legal borrowing authority; Permitted access for corporate credit unions, as agent members, to borrow for their own needs; Provided greater flexibility and affordability to agent members to join the CLF to serve smaller groups of their covered institutions; and Gave the NCUA Board the clarity and flexibility about the loans it can approve by removing the phrase, “the Board shall not approve an application for credit the intent of which is to expand credit union portfolios.” Among other benefits, these statutory provisions facilitated agent membership of corporate credit unions. These enhancements, however, ended on January 1, 2023, resulting in 3,322 credit unions with less than $250 million in assets losing access to the CLF. Consequently, the CLF's borrowing capacity has decreased by almost $10 billion.To address this expiration and growing liquidity risks, the NCUA Board has unanimously requested that Congress allow corporate credit unions to purchase capital stock in the CLF to help smaller credit unions access to the facility. This change would make the CLF more affordable for corporate credit unions subscribing for a subset of their members. The Congressional Budget Office has scored the CLF reforms at no cost to taxpayers.6NCUA's Efforts to Protect and Strengthen the Credit Union SystemIn recent months, the NCUA has undertaken several actions to respond to cybersecurity risk; support minority depository institutions; enhance the credit union system's and the NCUA's diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts; and consider and adopt new rules to strengthen the system.Enhancing CybersecurityCybersecurity threats within the financial services industry are high and expected to remain so for the foreseeable future. To maintain vigilance against these threats, the NCUA is committed to ensuring consistency, transparency, and accountability in its cybersecurity examination program and related activities.Earlier this year, the NCUA deployed its updated, scalable, and risk-focused Information Security Examination (ISE) procedures. The ISE examination initiative offers flexibility for credit unions while providing examiners with standardized review steps to facilitate advanced data collection and analysis. Together with the agency's voluntary Automated Cybersecurity Evaluation Toolbox maturity assessment, the new ISE procedures will assist the NCUA in protecting the credit union system from cyberattacks.In addition, the NCUA's recently implemented cyber incident reporting rule has proven to be helpful to the agency and credit union industry.7 The final rule requires a federally insured credit union to report a substantial cyber incident to the NCUA as soon as possible but no later than 72 hours after the credit union reasonably believes a reportable cyber incident has occurred. In the first 30 days after the rule became effective, the NCUA received 146 incident reports, more than it had received in total in the previous year. More than 60 percent of these incident reports involve third-party service providers and credit union service organizations (CUSOs).The NCUA also actively communicates with credit unions about the increased likelihood of cyberattacks resulting from geopolitical and other cyber events. Credit unions of all sizes are a part of the U.S. critical infrastructure and should implement appropriate controls in the technology they use to deliver member services.Maintaining Consumer Financial ProtectionAn important part of the NCUA's mission is to examine credit unions with less than $10 billion in assets for compliance with consumer financial protection laws. The agency's consumer compliance efforts are integral to maintaining a safe-and-sound credit union system.In 2023, the agency's consumer financial protection supervisory priorities have included overdraft protection, fair lending, residential real estate appraisal bias, and Truth in Lending Act and Fair Credit Reporting Act compliance. The NCUA also prioritized examining credit union compliance with the Flood Disaster Protection Act, including disclosure requirements.In addition, the agency increased its review of overdraft programs and non-sufficient funds fee practices at credit unions to assess whether providing those services and charging the fees are potentially unfair practices. The NCUA's supervision of the services aims to create a more equitable system that supports financial stability for credit union members, improves transparency, and advances the statutory mission of credit unions to meet the credit and savings needs of their members, especially those of modest means.8Furthermore, the NCUA conducts targeted fair lending examinations and supervision at federal credit unions to assess compliance with federal fair lending laws and regulations. These reviews are critical to identifying discrimination and fostering financial inclusion. In August 2023, the NCUA encouraged the industry to review and comply with previously issued guidance addressing prohibited discriminatory practices in automated underwriting systems. Specifically, the agency encouraged credit unions to review system parameters to ensure compliance with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and its implementing regulation.In addition to appraisal bias oversight examinations, the NCUA joined with the other Federal Financial Institution Examination Council agencies in June to issue proposed guidance for reconsideration of value for residential real estate valuations. The proposed guidance advises on policies that financial institutions may implement to allow consumers to provide information that may not have been considered during an appraisal or if deficiencies are identified in the original appraisal.As part of its consumer financial protection efforts, the NCUA's Consumer Assistance Center also resolves consumer complaints against federal credit unions with total assets up to $10 billion and, in certain instances, federally insured, state-chartered credit unions. In 2022, the Consumer Assistance Center responded to 10,589 written complaints, 1,842 inquiries, and 30,232 telephone calls from consumers and credit unions concerning consumer financial protection regulations.Finally, the NCUA regularly presents webinars promoting financial literacy and financial inclusion. Over the past year, the agency has hosted webinars on appraisal bias, elder financial abuse, and minority depository institutions. In addition, the agency participates in national financial literacy initiatives, including the interagency Financial Literacy and Education Commission.Supporting Minority Depository InstitutionsSupporting minority depository institution (MDI) credit unions is a longstanding priority for the NCUA. MDI credit unions represent approximately 10 percent of federally insured credit unions, and there are presently 498 such credit unions. These MDIs have more than five million members and exceed $66 billion in assets.In 2015, the NCUA established its MDI Preservation Program and has since sought new ways to assist MDI credit unions, their members, and the communities they serve. In 2022, the NCUA launched the Small Credit Union and MDI Support Program, allocating resources to assist MDIs in addressing operational challenges such as staff training, examinations, and improving earnings. In 2023, the NCUA allocated 10,000 staff hours across its three regional offices for the program.This year, the agency also issued customized guidance to examiners to provide insights into MDIs' unique business models and members' needs. The guidance assists examiners in understanding MDIs' distinct business model compared to other mainstream financial institutions by providing instruction on how to use MDI peer metrics instead of traditional peer metrics.Notably, while MDIs tend to be smaller institutions, they have relatively strong financial performance. As of the end of the second quarter of this year, MDIs averaged about $133 million in total assets, yet their return on average assets and net worth ratios were higher than federally insured credit unions overall and equal to credit unions with assets exceeding $1 billion. Meanwhile, their charge-off levels were consistent with the levels reported for both larger credit unions and credit unions overall.Congress recently authorized all MDIs to be eligible for Community Development Revolving Loan Fund grants and loans. Previously, MDIs required the low-income credit union designation to qualify. In the 2023 grant round, 42 MDIs received more than $1.4 million in technical assistance grants. The amount of funding MDIs received was a five-fold increase from the level of funding provided in 2022.Finally, the NCUA in October hosted an MDI Symposium that discussed how the agency can better serve these institutions. The MDI Symposium brought together MDI credit unions and industry stakeholders to learn about the challenges faced by MDIs. Sessions included case studies of successful MDI business models for replication. The NCUA plans to leverage this information to further support its MDI Preservation Program. And, as part of the NCUA's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Summit for credit unions in early November, the NCUA held a session that discussed MDI challenges and strategies for success.Advancing Diversity, Equity, and InclusionThe NCUA is fully committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the agency and the credit union system.The agency uses data from the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey, including the Office of Personnel Management's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility index, to inform its data-driven DEI strategies and activities.9 The agency's internal practices to promote DEI are also wide-ranging. For example, the NCUA's employee resource groups serve more than 30 percent of agency staff, surpassing the industry standard membership goal of 10 percent. Further, the NCUA's special emphasis program educates staff on cultural diversity and provides dedicated support for employees and managers with disabilities.In addition, the NCUA routinely recruits employees with diverse backgrounds and seeks to ensure broad applicant pools for vacancies. These diversity recruitment efforts are aimed at attracting and retaining highly qualified individuals from underrepresented groups, including Hispanics and candidates with disabilities. In 2023, the NCUA conducted a targeted barrier analysis to identify hiring and retention challenges for women and Hispanic employees. In addition, the agency has consistently exceeded the federal employment rate goals for employees with disabilities and targeted disabilities since 2017.10 Slightly more than 59 percent of the NCUA's managers are women.The NCUA has additionally built a diverse supplier network to obtain innovative solutions and the best value, particularly in technology and IT solutions. During 2022, the agency awarded $32.8 million of reportable contract dollars to minority and women-owned businesses. That figure represents 45 percent of the agency's contracting dollars, an increase of 8 percentage points from the prior year.Credit unions may also assess their DEI policies and programs through a voluntary credit union diversity self-assessment offered annually.11 Credit union submissions of their self-assessment have no bearing on their CAMELS rating, and examiners cannot access the data. The NCUA reports credit union diversity data only in the aggregate. The agency encourages credit unions to use this tool to support their DEI efforts.In 2022, 481, or 10 percent of all credit unions, submitted a self-assessment. The figure represents an all-time high for submissions to the NCUA. Of those submissions, 302 were federally chartered credit unions, 178 were federally insured and state-chartered, and one was a non-federally insured, state-chartered credit union. The number of CUDSA responses in 2022 is twice as much as the 240 self-assessments submitted in 2021.Finally, to support credit union accomplishments in DEI and provide further guidance, the NCUA hosted its fourth DEI Summit in Washington, D.C., in early November. This now annual event provided a forum for hundreds of credit union stakeholders to network, share best practices, and meet with thought leaders on ways to expand their DEI efforts. The event also highlighted the importance of allyship in helping to achieve the NCUA's and credit unions' DEI goals and improve the financial prospects and futures of families across the country.Rulemaking ActivitiesSince May, the NCUA Board has engaged in several rulemakings on topics like MDI preservation, member expulsion, financial innovation, fair hiring, and charitable donations. These rulemakings have aimed to implement laws required by Congress and strengthen the credit union system.In May, the NCUA Board approved a proposed rule that would add “war veterans' organizations” to the definition of a “qualified charity” that a federal credit union may contribute to using a charitable donation account. The NCUA Board approved the proposed rule noting the attributes of “veterans' organizations” as defined by section 501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code are aligned with the purposes of the current charitable donation account rule. A “qualified charity” is a section 501(c)(3) entity defined by the Internal Revenue Code and must be both a non-profit and be organized for a charitable purpose. The final rule will be considered on November 16.In June, the NCUA Board approved proposed changes to the interpretive ruling and policy statement on the agency's Minority Depository Institution Preservation Program. The proposal would amend an existing interpretive ruling and policy statement to update the program's features, clarify the requirements for a credit union to receive and maintain an MDI designation, and reflect the transfer of the MDI Preservation Program administration from the agency's Office of Minority and Women Inclusion to its Office of Credit Union Resources and Expansion. Proposed amendments to the interpretive ruling and policy statement also include incorporating recent program initiatives, providing examples of technical assistance an MDI may receive, establishing a new standard for MDIs to assess their designation periodically, and updating how the NCUA will review an MDI's designation status, among other changes. This rule is pending.Additionally, the Board finalized a rule in July to implement requirements of the Credit Union Governance Modernization Act of 2022.12 This regulation streamlines procedures for credit unions to expel a member in cases of serious misconduct.In September, the NCUA Board approved a financial innovation final rule that provides flexibility for federally insured credit unions to utilize advanced technologies and opportunities offered by the financial technology sector. The final rule specifically provides credit unions with options to participate in loans acquired through indirect lending arrangements and financial technology. With the adoption of this final rule, the limits previously found in the NCUA's regulations are replaced with policy, due diligence, and risk-management requirements that can be tailored to match each credit union's risk levels and activities.Lastly, the NCUA Board in October approved a proposed rule that would incorporate the NCUA's Second Chance Interpretive Ruling and Policy Statement, and statutory prohibitions imposed by Section 205(d) of the Federal Credit Union Act into the agency's regulations. This proposed rule would allow people convicted of certain minor offenses to work in the credit union industry without applying for the NCUA Board's approval. It would also amend requirements governing the conditions under which newly chartered or troubled federally insured credit unions must notify the NCUA of proposed changes to their board of directors, committee members, or senior executive staff. The comment period closes on January 8, 2024.Legislative RequestsWhile the credit union system continues to perform well overall, several amendments to the Federal Credit Union Act would provide the NCUA with greater flexibility to effectively regulate the credit union system and protect the Share Insurance Fund in light of an evolving economic environment, a changing marketplace, and technological advancements.Central Liquidity Facility ReformsAs noted previously, the NCUA Board unanimously supports a statutory change to restore the ability of corporate credit unions to serve as CLF agents on behalf of a subset of their member credit unions. Such legislation would better allow the CLF to serve as a shock absorber for liquidity events within the credit union system.On February 28, 2023, lawmakers introduced bipartisan legislation that would allow corporate credit unions to purchase CLF capital stock on behalf of a subset of their members.13 This legislation would permit corporate credit unions to contribute capital to provide coverage for smaller members with less than $250 million in assets. Liquidity risks within the credit union system are rising, and timely consideration of this bill would better protect the credit union system from future liquidity events.Restoration of Third-Party Vendor AuthorityThe risks resulting from the NCUA's lack of vendor authority are real, expanding, and potentially dangerous for the nation's financial infrastructure. Other independent entities, including the Government Accountability Office, the Financial Stability Oversight Council, and the NCUA's Office of Inspector General, have identified this deficiency as inhibiting the NCUA from fulfilling its mission to safeguard credit union members and the financial system. And, it is the NCUA Board's continuing policy to seek third-party vendor authority from Congress.14The agency is working within its current authority to address this growing regulatory blind spot, but it is evident that additional authority is needed. There has also been a shift in credit union leaders' understanding of the value of the NCUA having the same vendor authority as the federal banking agencies. The benefits include credit union access to NCUA examination information when conducting due diligence of vendors, fewer requests from the NCUA to credit unions to intervene with vendors experiencing problems, and fewer losses to the Share Insurance Fund.The potential for such resulting losses to the Share Insurance Fund is real. The NCUA's Office of Inspector General stated that between 2008 and 2015, nine CUSOs contributed to material losses to the Share Insurance Fund. The report noted one of the CUSOs caused losses in 24 credit unions, some of which failed. According to NCUA staff calculations, at least 73 credit unions incurred losses between 2007 and 2020 as losses at CUSOs roll onto credit union ledgers and lead to liquidations.15The absence of third-party vendor examination authority limits the NCUA's ability to assess and mitigate potential risks associated with these vendors. Vendors typically decline these requests or refuse to implement recommended actions. This limitation exacerbates any exposure credit unions have to the operational, cybersecurity, and compliance risks that can arise from these relationships. Without the authority to enforce recommended corrective actions, the NCUA is unable to effectively protect credit unions and their members.Furthermore, the growing reliance on third-party services in the credit union industry poses a systemic risk to the credit union system. Five core banking processors, for example, handle more than 90 percent of the credit union system's assets. A failure of one of these critical third parties could cause hundreds of credit unions and potentially tens of millions of their members to lose access to their funds simultaneously. Such a vendor failure, in turn, may result in a loss of confidence in the financial sector. Ensuring proper oversight is imperative, as CUSOs and third-party vendors are poised to capitalize on financial institutions' growing appetite for artificial intelligence and real-time payment services.If granted third-party vendor authority, the NCUA would implement a risk-based examination program focusing on services that relate to safety and soundness, cybersecurity, Bank Secrecy Act and Anti-Money Laundering Act compliance, consumer financial protection, and areas posing significant financial risk for the Share Insurance Fund.Additional Flexibility for Administering the Share Insurance FundThe recent turmoil in the banking sector, growing liquidity risks within the credit union system, and rising interest rate risk all highlight the need for the NCUA to have additional flexibility for administering the Share Insurance Fund.Specifically, the NCUA requests amending the Federal Credit Union Act to remove the 1.50 percent ceiling for the Share Insurance Fund's equity ratio from the current statutory definition of “normal operating level,” which limits the ability of the Board to establish a higher normal operating level for the Share Insurance Fund. A statutory change should also remove the limitations on assessing Share Insurance Fund premiums when the equity ratio of the Share Insurance Fund is greater than 1.30 percent and if the premium charged exceeds the amount necessary to restore the equity ratio to 1.30 percent.16Together, these amendments would bring the NCUA's statutory authority over the Share Insurance Fund more in line with the FDIC's authority as it relates to administering the Deposit Insurance Fund. These amendments would also better enable the NCUA Board to proactively manage the Share Insurance Fund by building reserves during economic upturns so that sufficient money is available during economic downturns. This more counter-cyclical approach to managing the Share Insurance Fund would better ensure that credit unions will not need to impair their one percent contributed capital deposit or pay premiums during times of economic stress, when they can least afford it.ConclusionThe NCUA stands ready to address the impact of the evolving economic and business cycles within the credit union system. The NCUA will continue to monitor credit union performance and coordinate with other federal financial institution regulators, as appropriate, to ensure the overall resiliency and stability of our nation's financial services system and economy.Thank you again for the invitation to testify about the NCUA's programs and operations. 

Dr. Mark Levine, Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Health, says ASTHO's new policy statement on suicide prevention offers many recommendations including a call to improve access to health care services for those at highest risk; Dr. Robert McDonald, Medical Officer in the Division of STD Prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), says most cases of newborn syphilis likely could be prevented with testing and treatment during pregnancy; Dr. Susan Kansagra, Assistant Secretary for Public Health and Director of the North Carolina Division of Public Health, says a recent investigation that found lead in some pureed fruit pouches is testament to the hard work that public health agencies perform every day on behalf of their communities; and sign up for ASTHO's legislative alert emails. ASTHO News Release: ASTHO Releases Five Health Policy Statements CDC Webpage: U.S. Syphilis Cases in Newborns Continue to Increase – A 10-Times Increase Over a Decade The Hill Webpage: Fruit puree pouches recalled after elevated lead levels found in North Carolina children: FDA ASTHO Legislative Alerts: Sign Up Here

Patricia Tilley, Director Division of Public Health Services with the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, discusses ASTHO's sexual and reproductive health policy statement; Meghan Fadel, Associate Director of the Healthy Brain Initiative at the Alzheimer's Association, says the Healthy Brain Initiative Roadmap is an important tool in the work to address Alzheimer's; Dan Keating, Washington Post Reporter, tells us about a project that studied chronic disease and life expectancy in the United States; and an ASTHO toolkit will allow you to find out how your agency is doing managing its grants process. ASTHO News Release: ASTHO Releases Five Health Policy Statements ASTHO Webpage: Sexual and Reproductive Health Policy Statement Alzheimer's Association Webpage: Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Road Map Washington Post News Article: An Epidemic of Chronic Illness is Killing Us Too Soon ASTHO Webpage: Grants Management Office Structure Optimization Toolkit  

The CFPB recently issued a policy statement in which it provided a framework for determining what constitutes abusive conduct under the CFPA. After reviewing the definition of abusive in the CFPA and the historical background of the adoption of an abusive standard in the CFPA, we examine how the policy statement addresses each element of the abusive standard and share our observations as to the policy statement's implications. We then look at past CFPB enforcement actions and supervisory findings in which conduct was alleged to be abusive. We also look at the overlap between abusive conduct and unfair or deceptive conduct and the relationship between “dark patterns” and abusive conduct and identify conduct that the CFPB might consider to be abusive. We conclude with a discussion of best practices for companies to consider to avoid engaging in conduct that the CFPB might find to be abusive. Alan Kaplinsky, Senior Counsel in Ballard Spahr's Consumer Financial Services Group, hosts the discussion joined by Michael Guerrero, a partner in the Group, Michael Gordon, Of Counsel in the Group, and Brian Turetsky, Of Counsel in the Group.

Dr. Joan Duwve, State Health Officer for the Kansas Department of Health, talks about the need to put equity at the center of all public health work; Dr. Puthiery Va, Director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, explains that lessons learned from the pandemic will inform her new role at a critical time as she begins her new job; Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says she is working to build trust with local agencies; and ASTHO training modules will tell you what it means to be a state trusted contact for the CDC's Opioid Rapid Response Program. ASTHO Policy Statement: Equity Driven Promotion of Optimal Health Outcomes Kansas Office of the Governor Webpage: Commission on Racial Equity and Justice Maine Department of Health and Human Services News Release: DHHS Commissioner Lambrew Announces Director for Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention  ASTHO Webpage: Trusted Contacts Training Modules

I catch up with Commercial Lending Expert Vin Vieten on the FFIEC's Loan Accommodation Guidance issued late last month. The guidance provides guidance to federal banking regulatory agencies on prudent commercial real estate loan accommodations and workouts. The main points are:Regulators will not criticize financial institutions for engaging in prudent loan workout arrangements with creditworthy borrowers, even if the modified loans are adversely classified due to weaknesses.Modified loans to borrowers who can repay according to reasonable terms will not be adversely classified solely due to declines in collateral value below the loan balance.The guidance covers risk management expectations, loan classification, regulatory reporting, and accounting considerations for commercial real estate loan accommodations and workouts.Short-term accommodations are encouraged as a tool to help borrowers, and the guidance provides principles for prudent risk management of these accommodations.For loan workouts, regulators will evaluate the effectiveness of a financial institution's practices, including having appropriate policies, documentation standards, risk monitoring, and regulatory reporting processes.The guidance provides principles for classification of renewed/restructured loans, problem loans dependent on collateral for repayment, and restructurings with partial charge-offs.The statement emphasizes coordination between the loan workout function and accounting/regulatory reporting staff.Appendices provide loan workout examples, relevant supervisory guidance and rules, valuation concepts, adverse classification definitions, and a summary of current expected credit loss accounting.In summary, the guidance aims to promote consistent supervisory approaches and transparency for commercial real estate loan accommodations and workouts. The goal is to avoid impeding credit availability to sound borrowers while maintaining prudent lending practices.Here Vin's take on why this is A+ guidance.

Kris Ehresmann, former Director of Infectious Disease at the Minnesota Department of Health, describes ASTHO's revised policy statement; Jeffrey Ekoma, ASTHO's Senior Director of Government Affairs, discusses predictions for Congressional action before the end of the fiscal year; and an ASTHO blog article outlines messaging and response strategies for wildfires. ASTHO Immunization Policy Statement ASTHO Blog Article: Where There's Fire, There's Smoke—States Prepare for Health Impacts of Wildfire Smoke ASTHO Webpage: Stay Informed

The government's proposing increasing fuel taxes in a phased way to pay for big infrastructure projects and maintenance. Its draft Policy Statement outlines fourteen transport projects it wants Waka Kotahi to deliver over the next decade. They include funding four-laning State Highway 2 between Napier and Hastings, a new Northwestern Busway in Auckland, and a second tunnel through Wellington's Mount Victoria. Here's political reporter Giles Dexter. 

Andy Baker White, ASTHO's Senior Director of State Health Policy, outlines three new policy recommendations on Public Health Legal Authority; Dr. Georgina Peacock, the Director of the Immunization Services Division in the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at the CDC, says vaccine coverage among kindergarten children is at a decade low; an ASTHO blog explains how Rhode Island was able to add 28 permanent staff positions; and sign up for ASTHO's Public Health Weekly email newsletters.   ASTHO Webpage: Public Health Legal Authority to Prevent and Mitigate the Spread of Communicable and Infectious Diseases and Other Public Health Threats CDC: Back to School with Routine Vaccines ASTHO Webpage: Workforce Policy Spotlight: Successfully Raising FTE Caps in Rhode Island ASTHO Webpage: Public Health Weekly email newsletters

Marcus Plescia, ASTHO's Chief Medical Officer, says public health aims to strengthen the use of antiviral COVID-19 protections in nursing homes; Priya Shah, ASTHO's Senior Analyst of Health Improvement and Healthy Aging, shares an updated policy statement that focuses on improving older adults access to care and healthy aging; an ASTHO webinar will focus on Medicaid family planning state plan amendments and waivers; and sign up for ASTHO's Public Health Weekly email newsletter. JAMA Network: Monoclonal Antibody and Oral Antiviral Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in US Nursing Homes ASTHO Policy Statement: Healthy Aging and Older Adult Health Policy Statement ASTHO Webinar: Connecting Your Communities to Family Planning Coverage ASTHO Public Health Weekly Newsletter.

https://302.buzz/PM-WhatAreYourThoughtsAs the only pediatrician in her Native American community, Dr. Empey's insights and first-hand experiences offer a valuable perspective on the need for better representation and improved healthcare access. Dr. Gaggino and Dr. Empey urge all of the listeners, (especially all you early career physicians), to step up and take leadership roles at every level within the medical community. We cannot afford to ignore the health inequities faced by marginalized populations, including American Indian and Alaska Native children. Let us learn from the historical traumas that have shaped their communities and continue to impact their well-being. Through cultural competency, collaboration, and advocacy, we can prioritize their unique needs and ensure that their voices are heard. It is our call to action to dismantle systemic barriers and work towards healing and justice. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards of creating a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system for all are immeasurable. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future, leaving no child behind. [03:20-10:21] Challenges and Strengths of American Indian and Alaskan Native Children and YouthMany pediatricians may not realize they have children from tribal communities in their practicesConsider the cultural, religious, and spiritual practices of these children and their families in providing careMajority of American Indian and Alaskan Native population live off reservations, in urban centersUrban population seeks care at children's hospitals due to limited IHS or tribal facilitiesLanguage, cultural, and historical diversity among different tribes need to be acknowledged and respected[10:22- 16:14] Historical Trauma and Health Inequities Contextualizing health inequities within the historical traumas faced by American Indian and Alaskan Native communitiesImpact of colonization, diseases, boarding schools, termination of tribes, and relocations on communitiesExamples of personal and intergenerational traumas, such as the Trail of Tears and Indian boarding schoolsLoss of culture, language, and family connectedness due to boarding school experiencesEffects of relocations on access to traditional foods, opportunities for employment, and increased poverty levels[16:15 -21:25] Health Outcomes and Concerns for KidsMental health concerns, including an increased risk of suicideObesity and type 2 diabetesCardiovascular risk factors and hypertensionLack of safe places for kids to play in some communitiesLimited access to fresh fruits and vegetables due to food deserts[21:26 - 27:17] Methods for Stress Reduction Practicing mindfulness and meditationEngaging in regular physical activitySocializing and spending time with loved onesEngaging in hobbies and recreational activitiesSeeking professional help or therapy when needed[27:18 - 31:44] Closing segment TakeawayLinks to resources mentioned on the showAAP Caring For American Indian and Alaskan Native 2021 Policy Statement:

Sowmya Kuruganti, ASTHO Public Health Analyst, explains how Medicaid expansion could increase access to care for postpartum people; Sanaa Akbarali, ASTHO Senior Director of Maternal and Infant Health, says a renewed ASTHO policy statement addresses ways to prevent maternal mortality and morbidity; ASTHO has a blog on the debt ceiling negotiations in Congress; and online tickets are still available for ASTHO's TechXpo and Futures Forum.   States Support Postpartum Health with Medicaid Expansions Supporting Success: ASTHO's Strategies for Reducing Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Policy Statement The Debt Ceiling Discussion Greatly Impacts Public Health Public Health TechXpo and Futures Forum