Get Ready for what’s new for tax year 2022

WASHINGTON — The&nbsp;Internal Revenue Service today encouraged taxpayers 
to take simple steps before the end of the year to make filing their 
2022 federal tax return easier. With a little advance preparation, a 
preview of tax changes and convenient online tools, taxpayers can 
approach the upcoming tax season with confidence.

Filers can visit the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/steps-to-take-now-to-get-a-jump-on-next-years-taxes">Get Ready</a>
 webpage to find guidance on what’s new and what to consider when filing
 a 2022 tax return. They can also find helpful information on organizing
 tax records and a list of online tools and resources.

When filers have all their tax documentation gathered and organized, 
they’re in the best position to file an accurate return and avoid 
processing or refund delays or receiving IRS letters. Now’s a good time 
for taxpayers to consider financial transactions that occurred in 2022, 
if they’re taxable and how they should be reported.

The IRS encourages taxpayers to develop an electronic or paper 
recordkeeping system to store tax-related information in one place for 
easy access. Taxpayers should keep copies of filed tax returns and their
 supporting documents for at least three years.

Before January, taxpayers should confirm that their employer, bank 
and other payers have their current mailing address and email address to
 ensure they receive their year-end financial statements. Typically, 
year-end forms start arriving by mail or are available online in 
mid-to-late January. Taxpayers should carefully review each income 
statement for accuracy and contact the issuer to correct information 
that needs to be updated.

Get Ready for what’s new for Tax Year 2022

With the end of the year approaching, time is running out to take advantage of the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>.
 This online tool is designed to help taxpayers determine the right 
amount of tax to have withheld from their paycheck. Some people may have
 life changes like getting married or divorced, welcoming a child or 
taking on a second job. Other taxpayers may need to consider estimated 
tax payments due to non-wage income from unemployment, self-employment, 
annuity income or even digital assets. The last quarterly payment for 
2022 is due on January 17, 2023. The Tax Withholding Estimator can help 
wage earners determine if there is a need to adjust their withholding, 
consider additional tax payments, or submit a new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-4-p">W-4 form</a> to their employer to avoid an unexpected tax bill when they file.

As taxpayers gather tax records, they should remember that most 
income is taxable. This includes unemployment income, refund interest 
and income from the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/gig-economy-tax-center">gig economy</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/digital-assets">digital assets</a>.&nbsp;

Taxpayers should report the income they earned, including from 
part-time work, side jobs or the sale of goods. The American Rescue Plan
 Act of 2021 lowered the reporting threshold for third-party networks 
that process payments for those doing business. Prior to 2022, Form 
1099-K was issued for third-party payment network transactions only if 
the total number of transactions exceeded 200 for the year and the 
aggregate amount of these transactions exceeded $20,000. Now a single 
transaction exceeding $600 can trigger a 1099-K. The lower information 
reporting threshold and the summary of income on Form 1099-K enables 
taxpayers to more easily track the amounts received. Remember, money 
received through third-party payment applications from friends and 
relatives as personal gifts or reimbursements for personal expenses is 
not taxable. Those who receive a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/understanding-your-form-1099-k">1099-K</a> reflecting income they didn’t earn should call the issuer. The IRS cannot correct it.

Credit amounts also change each year like the&nbsp;Child Tax Credit (CTC),
 Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)&nbsp;and Dependent Care Credit. Taxpayers 
can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita">Interactive Tax Assistant</a>
 on IRS.gov to determine their eligibility for tax credits. Some 
taxpayers may qualify this year for the expanded eligibility for the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-974">Premium Tax Credit</a>, while others may qualify for a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/plug-in-electric-vehicle-credit-irc-30-and-irc-30d">Clean Vehicle Credit</a> through the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/latest-news-on-the-inflation-reduction-act-of-2022">Inflation Reduction Act of 2022</a>.

Refunds may be smaller in 2023. Taxpayers will not receive an 
additional stimulus payment with a 2023 tax refund because there were no
 Economic Impact Payments for 2022. In addition, taxpayers who don’t 
itemize and take the standard deduction, won’t be able to deduct their 
charitable contributions.

The IRS cautions taxpayers not to rely on receiving a 2022 federal 
tax refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or 
paying bills. Some returns may require additional review and may take 
longer. For example, the IRS and its partners in the tax industry, 
continue to strengthen security reviews to protect against identity 
theft. Additionally, refunds for people claiming the Earned Income Tax 
Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) can’t be issued 
before mid-February. The law requires the IRS to hold the entire refund –
 not just the portion associated with EITC or ACTC. This law helps 
ensure taxpayers receive the refund they're due by giving the IRS time 
to detect and prevent fraud.

For taxpayers who are still waiting for confirmation that last year’s
 tax return processed, or for a tax year 2021 refund or stimulus payment
 to process, their patience is appreciated. As of November 11, 2022, the
 IRS had 3.7 million unprocessed individual returns received this year. 
These include tax year 2021 returns and late filed prior year returns. 
Of these, 1.7 million returns require error correction or other special 
handling, and 2 million are paper returns waiting to be reviewed and 
processed. They also had 900,000 unprocessed Forms 1040-X for amended 
tax returns. The IRS is processing these amended returns in the order 
received and the current timeframe can be more than 20 weeks. Taxpayers 
should continue to check&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return">Where's My Amended Return?</a>&nbsp;for the most up-to-date processing status available.

Taxpayers should ensure their <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/individual-taxpayer-identification-number">Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)</a>&nbsp;hasn’t expired before filing a 2022 tax return. Those who need to file a tax return, should submit a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-7">Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number</a>&nbsp;now,
 to renew their ITIN. Taxpayers who fail to renew an ITIN before filing a
 tax return next year could face a delayed refund and may be ineligible 
for certain tax credits. Applying now will help avoid the rush as well 
as refund and processing delays in 2023.

Online tools are easy to use and available to taxpayers 24 hours a 
day. They provide key information about tax accounts and a convenient 
way to pay taxes. IRS.gov provides information in many languages and 
enhanced services for people with disabilities, including the 
Accessibility Helpline. Taxpayers who need accessibility assistance may 
call 833-690-0598. Taxpayers should use IRS.gov as their first and 
primary resource for accurate tax information.

Taxpayers should prepare to file electronically and choose <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">Direct Deposit</a>
 for their tax refund – it’s the fastest and safest way to file and get a
 refund. Even when filing a paper return, choosing a direct deposit 
refund can save time. For those who do not have a bank account, the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">FDIC website</a> offers information to help people open an account online.

Taxpayers can download <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5349.pdf">Publication 5349, Tax Preparation is for Everyone</a>PDF, for more information to help them get ready to file.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Get Ready for what’s new for tax year 2022</h2>IRSWASHINGTON — The&nbsp;Internal Revenue Service today encouraged taxpayers 
to take simple steps before the end of the year to make filing their 
2022 federal tax return easier. With a little advance preparation, a 
preview of tax changes and convenient online tools, taxpayers can 
approach the upcoming tax season with confidence.Filers can visit the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/steps-to-take-now-to-get-a-jump-on-next-years-taxes">Get Ready</a>
 webpage to find guidance on what’s new and what to consider when filing
 a 2022 tax return. They can also find helpful information on organizing
 tax records and a list of online tools and resources.<h2>Get Ready by gathering tax records</h2>When filers have all their tax documentation gathered and organized, 
they’re in the best position to file an accurate return and avoid 
processing or refund delays or receiving IRS letters. Now’s a good time 
for taxpayers to consider financial transactions that occurred in 2022, 
if they’re taxable and how they should be reported.The IRS encourages taxpayers to develop an electronic or paper 
recordkeeping system to store tax-related information in one place for 
easy access. Taxpayers should keep copies of filed tax returns and their
 supporting documents for at least three years.Before January, taxpayers should confirm that their employer, bank 
and other payers have their current mailing address and email address to
 ensure they receive their year-end financial statements. Typically, 
year-end forms start arriving by mail or are available online in 
mid-to-late January. Taxpayers should carefully review each income 
statement for accuracy and contact the issuer to correct information 
that needs to be updated.<h2>Get Ready for what’s new for Tax Year 2022</h2>With the end of the year approaching, time is running out to take advantage of the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>.
 This online tool is designed to help taxpayers determine the right 
amount of tax to have withheld from their paycheck. Some people may have
 life changes like getting married or divorced, welcoming a child or 
taking on a second job. Other taxpayers may need to consider estimated 
tax payments due to non-wage income from unemployment, self-employment, 
annuity income or even digital assets. The last quarterly payment for 
2022 is due on January 17, 2023. The Tax Withholding Estimator can help 
wage earners determine if there is a need to adjust their withholding, 
consider additional tax payments, or submit a new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-4-p">W-4 form</a> to their employer to avoid an unexpected tax bill when they file.As taxpayers gather tax records, they should remember that most 
income is taxable. This includes unemployment income, refund interest 
and income from the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/gig-economy-tax-center">gig economy</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/digital-assets">digital assets</a>.&nbsp;Taxpayers should report the income they earned, including from 
part-time work, side jobs or the sale of goods. The American Rescue Plan
 Act of 2021 lowered the reporting threshold for third-party networks 
that process payments for those doing business. Prior to 2022, Form 
1099-K was issued for third-party payment network transactions only if 
the total number of transactions exceeded 200 for the year and the 
aggregate amount of these transactions exceeded $20,000. Now a single 
transaction exceeding $600 can trigger a 1099-K. The lower information 
reporting threshold and the summary of income on Form 1099-K enables 
taxpayers to more easily track the amounts received. Remember, money 
received through third-party payment applications from friends and 
relatives as personal gifts or reimbursements for personal expenses is 
not taxable. Those who receive a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/understanding-your-form-1099-k">1099-K</a> reflecting income they didn’t earn should call the issuer. The IRS cannot correct it.Credit amounts also change each year like the&nbsp;Child Tax Credit (CTC),
 Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)&nbsp;and Dependent Care Credit. Taxpayers 
can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita">Interactive Tax Assistant</a>
 on IRS.gov to determine their eligibility for tax credits. Some 
taxpayers may qualify this year for the expanded eligibility for the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-974">Premium Tax Credit</a>, while others may qualify for a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/plug-in-electric-vehicle-credit-irc-30-and-irc-30d">Clean Vehicle Credit</a> through the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/latest-news-on-the-inflation-reduction-act-of-2022">Inflation Reduction Act of 2022</a>.Refunds may be smaller in 2023. Taxpayers will not receive an 
additional stimulus payment with a 2023 tax refund because there were no
 Economic Impact Payments for 2022. In addition, taxpayers who don’t 
itemize and take the standard deduction, won’t be able to deduct their 
charitable contributions.The IRS cautions taxpayers not to rely on receiving a 2022 federal 
tax refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or 
paying bills. Some returns may require additional review and may take 
longer. For example, the IRS and its partners in the tax industry, 
continue to strengthen security reviews to protect against identity 
theft. Additionally, refunds for people claiming the Earned Income Tax 
Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) can’t be issued 
before mid-February. The law requires the IRS to hold the entire refund –
 not just the portion associated with EITC or ACTC. This law helps 
ensure taxpayers receive the refund they're due by giving the IRS time 
to detect and prevent fraud.For taxpayers who are still waiting for confirmation that last year’s
 tax return processed, or for a tax year 2021 refund or stimulus payment
 to process, their patience is appreciated. As of November 11, 2022, the
 IRS had 3.7 million unprocessed individual returns received this year. 
These include tax year 2021 returns and late filed prior year returns. 
Of these, 1.7 million returns require error correction or other special 
handling, and 2 million are paper returns waiting to be reviewed and 
processed. They also had 900,000 unprocessed Forms 1040-X for amended 
tax returns. The IRS is processing these amended returns in the order 
received and the current timeframe can be more than 20 weeks. Taxpayers 
should continue to check&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return">Where's My Amended Return?</a>&nbsp;for the most up-to-date processing status available.<h2>Renew expiring tax ID numbers</h2>Taxpayers should ensure their <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/individual-taxpayer-identification-number">Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)</a>&nbsp;hasn’t expired before filing a 2022 tax return. Those who need to file a tax return, should submit a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-7">Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number</a>&nbsp;now,
 to renew their ITIN. Taxpayers who fail to renew an ITIN before filing a
 tax return next year could face a delayed refund and may be ineligible 
for certain tax credits. Applying now will help avoid the rush as well 
as refund and processing delays in 2023.<h2>Bookmark the following tools on IRS.gov</h2>Online tools are easy to use and available to taxpayers 24 hours a 
day. They provide key information about tax accounts and a convenient 
way to pay taxes. IRS.gov provides information in many languages and 
enhanced services for people with disabilities, including the 
Accessibility Helpline. Taxpayers who need accessibility assistance may 
call 833-690-0598. Taxpayers should use IRS.gov as their first and 
primary resource for accurate tax information.<ul>
 <li>Let Us Help You page. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/telephone-assistance">Let Us Help You</a> page on IRS.gov has links to information and resources on a wide range of topics.
	</li><li>Online Account. An <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account">IRS online account</a>
 lets taxpayers securely access their personal tax information, 
including tax return transcripts, payment history, certain notices, 
prior year adjusted gross income and power of attorney information. 
Filers can log in to verify if their name and address is correct. They 
should <a href="https://www.irs.gov/faqs/irs-procedures/address-changes">notify IRS if their address has changed</a>. They must notify the <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/">Social Security Administration</a> of a legal name change to avoid a delay in processing their tax return.
	</li><li>IRS Free File. Almost everyone can file electronically for free on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS.gov/freefile</a> or with the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go app</a>.
 The IRS Free File program, available only through IRS.gov, offers 
brand-name tax preparation software packages at no cost. The software 
does all the work of finding deductions, credits and exemptions for 
filers. It‘s free for those who qualify. Some Free File packages offer 
free state tax return preparation. Those who are comfortable preparing 
their own taxes can use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms">Free File Fillable Forms</a>, regardless of their income, to file their tax return either online or by mail.
	</li><li>Find a tax professional. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page on IRS.gov has a wealth of information to help filers choose a tax professional. In addition, the <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find preparers in their area who hold professional 
credentials recognized by the IRS, or who hold an Annual Filing Season 
Program Record of Completion.
	</li><li>Interactive Tax Assistant. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita">Interactive Tax Assistant</a>
 is a tool that provides answers to many tax questions. It can determine
 if a type of income is taxable and eligibility to claim certain credits
 or deductions. It also provides answers for general questions, such as 
determining filing requirement, filing status or eligibility to claim a 
dependent.
	</li><li>Where's My Refund? Taxpayers can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where’s My Refund?</a>
 tool to check the status of their refund. Current year refund 
information is typically available online within 24 hours after the IRS 
receives an e-filed tax return. A paper return status can take up to 
four weeks to appear after it is mailed. The Where’s My Refund? tool 
updates once every 24 hours, usually overnight, so filers only need to 
check once a day.
	</li><li>Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)</a> programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.
	</li>
 </ul><h2>Get refunds fast with Direct Deposit</h2>Taxpayers should prepare to file electronically and choose <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">Direct Deposit</a>
 for their tax refund – it’s the fastest and safest way to file and get a
 refund. Even when filing a paper return, choosing a direct deposit 
refund can save time. For those who do not have a bank account, the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">FDIC website</a> offers information to help people open an account online.Taxpayers can download <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5349.pdf">Publication 5349, Tax Preparation is for Everyone</a>PDF, for more information to help them get ready to file.

Get Ready: IRS offers tips, guidelines for filing 2022 returns

MANHATTAN — The holiday season is filled with hearty, delicious food, visiting with friends and family, decreased physical activity, busy schedules and weight gain. According to a Kansas State University veterinarian,&nbsp;&nbsp;it is also a time for our family pets to gain weight as well. According to Susan Nelson, clinical professor at the university's&nbsp;<a href="https://ksvhc.org/" target="_blank">Veterinary Health Center</a>, many pets gain weight during the holidays due to special treats being consumed and/or a few of those delicious table scraps making it into their bowls as well. Owners also may not be able to be as physically active or have as many play sessions with their pets because of busy holiday schedules. "Table scraps are high in calories and fat, lead to weight gain and can also cause gastrointestinal upset or life-threatening pancreatitis," Nelson said. "I advise owners to offer low-calorie fruits and vegetables — not cooked in butter — as a substitute for other types of table scraps, if they are going to be fed." Nelson offers the following tips to limit pet weight gain during the holidays and throughout the year: • Limit the number of treats fed to less than 10% of total caloric intake. Your veterinarian can help calculate a pet's caloric intake if needed. • Break a single treat into several smaller portions that you can distribute throughout the day. Pets do not know the difference and will consume fewer calories from treat consumption. • Use a treat dispenser or food puzzle to prolong the amount of time it takes a pet to eat and offer mental stimulation. • Reserve some of the daily kibble to feed as treats instead. • Keep your pet out of the dining room when eating and kitchen when cooking to be less likely to succumb to those pleading, big brown eyes that are begging for a bite. For pet owners with less time to exercise or play with pets, Nelson suggests hiring a professional pet walker, family friend or neighbor to walk or play with your pets. Pet day care centers also offer opportunities for pet activity and socialization. Pet owners concerned that a pet may be overweight can learn more about K-State's Veterinary Health Center Healthy Weight Clinic, a part of the Hill's Pet Health &amp; Nutrition Center, at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/pet-obesity-clinic.html" target="_blank">ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/pet-obesity-clinic.html</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669092519970.jpeg" alt="Many pets gain weight during the holidays due to special treats being consumed and/or a few of those delicious table scraps making it into their bowls as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@charlesdeluvio?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">charlesdeluvio</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/dog-at-table?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>" />
 <figcaption>Many pets gain weight during the holidays due to special treats being consumed and/or a few of those delicious table scraps making it into their bowls as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@charlesdeluvio?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">charlesdeluvio</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/dog-at-table?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State News ServiceMANHATTAN — The holiday season is filled with hearty, delicious food, visiting with friends and family, decreased physical activity, busy schedules and weight gain. According to a Kansas State University veterinarian,&nbsp;&nbsp;it is also a time for our family pets to gain weight as well. According to Susan Nelson, clinical professor at the university's&nbsp;<a href="https://ksvhc.org/" target="_blank">Veterinary Health Center</a>, many pets gain weight during the holidays due to special treats being consumed and/or a few of those delicious table scraps making it into their bowls as well. Owners also may not be able to be as physically active or have as many play sessions with their pets because of busy holiday schedules. "Table scraps are high in calories and fat, lead to weight gain and can also cause gastrointestinal upset or life-threatening pancreatitis," Nelson said. "I advise owners to offer low-calorie fruits and vegetables — not cooked in butter — as a substitute for other types of table scraps, if they are going to be fed." Nelson offers the following tips to limit pet weight gain during the holidays and throughout the year: • Limit the number of treats fed to less than 10% of total caloric intake. Your veterinarian can help calculate a pet's caloric intake if needed. • Break a single treat into several smaller portions that you can distribute throughout the day. Pets do not know the difference and will consume fewer calories from treat consumption. • Use a treat dispenser or food puzzle to prolong the amount of time it takes a pet to eat and offer mental stimulation. • Reserve some of the daily kibble to feed as treats instead. • Keep your pet out of the dining room when eating and kitchen when cooking to be less likely to succumb to those pleading, big brown eyes that are begging for a bite. For pet owners with less time to exercise or play with pets, Nelson suggests hiring a professional pet walker, family friend or neighbor to walk or play with your pets. Pet day care centers also offer opportunities for pet activity and socialization. Pet owners concerned that a pet may be overweight can learn more about K-State's Veterinary Health Center Healthy Weight Clinic, a part of the Hill's Pet Health &amp; Nutrition Center, at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/pet-obesity-clinic.html" target="_blank">ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/pet-obesity-clinic.html</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

K-State veterinarian offers tips to prevent holiday weight gain in pets

OMAHA,
 Neb. (AP) — A Wisconsin company that cleans hundreds of meatpacking 
plants nationwide is defending itself against allegations that it 
employed more than two dozen minors working overnight shifts cleaning 
massive saws, grinding machines and other dangerous processing equipment
 at three slaughterhouses.

Labor Department officials said in 
court documents that they believe Packers Sanitation Services Inc. might
 be employing underage workers at other plants but investigators have 
only just starting reviewing thousands of pages of employee records at 
plants besides the ones in Nebraska and Minnesota where they confirmed 
teenagers were working through the middle of the night sanitizing 
slaughterhouses before heading back to high school in the morning.

A
 federal judge in Lincoln, Nebraska, already issued a temporary order 
prohibiting the company from employing minors and interfering in the 
Labor Department's investigation. The company will argue at a court 
hearing next month that there's no reason for a judge to make that order
 permanent because PSSI officials say they are cooperating with the 
investigation and they already prohibit hiring anyone younger than 18.

On
 Monday, a judge ordered the government to give the company a few more 
details about its investigation ahead of next month's hearing. The 
company says it employs some 17,000 people working at more than 700 
locations nationwide, making it one of the largest firms out there that 
cleans food processing plants.

PSSI Vice President of Marketing 
Gina Swenson said the company “has an absolute company-wide prohibition 
against the employment of anyone under the age of 18 and zero tolerance 
for any violation of that policy — period.”

Swenson also said 
corporate officials have been cooperating with the investigation. But 
according to court documents, the Labor Department says local managers 
“attempted to obstruct employee interviews” at JBS plants in Grand 
Island, Nebraska, and Worthington, Minnesota, as well as at a Turkey 
Valley Farms plant in Marshall, Minnesota. Investigators said they also 
saw managers deleting WhatsApp messages and computer files.

In one
 instance, investigators said they found text messages a manager at the 
Worthington plant sent to prospective employees who were discussing 
using false identification documents to secure a job with PSSI.

Investigators
 say they have been able to confirm that at least 31 children as young 
as 13 have been working for PSSI by talking to them and comparing 
timeclock photos and employment data with pictures and information in 
local school records.

Officials at JBS and Turkey Valley Farms say
 they are monitoring the situation with PSSI and will consider taking 
action against the company based on the outcome of the investigation.

“We
 take seriously the allegations against PSSI, which, if true, represent a
 clear violation of our ethical policies,” Michael Koenig, JBS's chief 
ethics and compliance officer, said in a statement. He said JBS is 
taking steps to verify the status of all the sanitation workers at its 
plants and the company won't tolerate child labor.

In addition to 
the Nebraska and Minnesota plants, investigators also seized records 
from a Tyson Foods plant in Sedalia, Missouri, but they didn't identify 
any workers from there as minors in the court documents. Tyson officials
 didn't immediately respond Tuesday to questions about the 
investigation.

The underage workers that investigators confirmed 
included one 13-year-old who suffered a serious chemical burn from the 
caustic chemicals used to clean the JBS plant in Grand Island every 
night.

Investigators said in court documents that some of the 
teens they found working for PSSI told them that “everyone there knew” 
that they were minors, and in one case, a search of a government 
database showed that one employee's age came up as 129-years-old when 
their Social Security number was checked.

PSSI asked the court to 
order investigators to share more details about that case and identify 
the children it found to help it ensure that “rogue individuals” aren't 
finding ways to circumvent the company's efforts to avoid hiring people 
under age 18.

But the judge only ordered limited information to be
 released after the Labor Department argued that PSSI already has all 
the information it needs to identify any minors in its own company 
documents.

“It is not the Secretary’s responsibility to teach 
defendants how to search their own documents to find the minor children 
they employ. Further, PSSI need only consult their own managers working 
on the ground at these establishments to conduct their own due 
diligence,” the Labor Department said in court documents.

The 
company and investigators are due in court on Dec. 7 to argue about 
whether a federal judge should issue a preliminary injunction in the 
case.

OMAHA,
 Neb. (AP) — A Wisconsin company that cleans hundreds of meatpacking 
plants nationwide is defending itself against allegations that it 
employed more than two dozen minors working overnight shifts cleaning 
massive saws, grinding machines and other dangerous processing equipment
 at three slaughterhouses.Labor Department officials said in 
court documents that they believe Packers Sanitation Services Inc. might
 be employing underage workers at other plants but investigators have 
only just starting reviewing thousands of pages of employee records at 
plants besides the ones in Nebraska and Minnesota where they confirmed 
teenagers were working through the middle of the night sanitizing 
slaughterhouses before heading back to high school in the morning.A
 federal judge in Lincoln, Nebraska, already issued a temporary order 
prohibiting the company from employing minors and interfering in the 
Labor Department's investigation. The company will argue at a court 
hearing next month that there's no reason for a judge to make that order
 permanent because PSSI officials say they are cooperating with the 
investigation and they already prohibit hiring anyone younger than 18.On
 Monday, a judge ordered the government to give the company a few more 
details about its investigation ahead of next month's hearing. The 
company says it employs some 17,000 people working at more than 700 
locations nationwide, making it one of the largest firms out there that 
cleans food processing plants.PSSI Vice President of Marketing 
Gina Swenson said the company “has an absolute company-wide prohibition 
against the employment of anyone under the age of 18 and zero tolerance 
for any violation of that policy — period.”Swenson also said 
corporate officials have been cooperating with the investigation. But 
according to court documents, the Labor Department says local managers 
“attempted to obstruct employee interviews” at JBS plants in Grand 
Island, Nebraska, and Worthington, Minnesota, as well as at a Turkey 
Valley Farms plant in Marshall, Minnesota. Investigators said they also 
saw managers deleting WhatsApp messages and computer files.In one
 instance, investigators said they found text messages a manager at the 
Worthington plant sent to prospective employees who were discussing 
using false identification documents to secure a job with PSSI.Investigators
 say they have been able to confirm that at least 31 children as young 
as 13 have been working for PSSI by talking to them and comparing 
timeclock photos and employment data with pictures and information in 
local school records.Officials at JBS and Turkey Valley Farms say
 they are monitoring the situation with PSSI and will consider taking 
action against the company based on the outcome of the investigation.“We
 take seriously the allegations against PSSI, which, if true, represent a
 clear violation of our ethical policies,” Michael Koenig, JBS's chief 
ethics and compliance officer, said in a statement. He said JBS is 
taking steps to verify the status of all the sanitation workers at its 
plants and the company won't tolerate child labor.In addition to 
the Nebraska and Minnesota plants, investigators also seized records 
from a Tyson Foods plant in Sedalia, Missouri, but they didn't identify 
any workers from there as minors in the court documents. Tyson officials
 didn't immediately respond Tuesday to questions about the 
investigation.The underage workers that investigators confirmed 
included one 13-year-old who suffered a serious chemical burn from the 
caustic chemicals used to clean the JBS plant in Grand Island every 
night.Investigators said in court documents that some of the 
teens they found working for PSSI told them that “everyone there knew” 
that they were minors, and in one case, a search of a government 
database showed that one employee's age came up as 129-years-old when 
their Social Security number was checked.PSSI asked the court to 
order investigators to share more details about that case and identify 
the children it found to help it ensure that “rogue individuals” aren't 
finding ways to circumvent the company's efforts to avoid hiring people 
under age 18.But the judge only ordered limited information to be
 released after the Labor Department argued that PSSI already has all 
the information it needs to identify any minors in its own company 
documents.“It is not the Secretary’s responsibility to teach 
defendants how to search their own documents to find the minor children 
they employ. Further, PSSI need only consult their own managers working 
on the ground at these establishments to conduct their own due 
diligence,” the Labor Department said in court documents.The 
company and investigators are due in court on Dec. 7 to argue about 
whether a federal judge should issue a preliminary injunction in the 
case.

Investigators: Firm that cleans meat plants employed minors

By JOSH FUNK Associated Press

OMAHA, Neb. — American consumers and nearly every industry will be affected if freight trains grind to a halt next month.

One of the biggest rail unions <a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-congress-government-and-politics-79d2e2c2779598b0a14396464ee4f7e9">rejected its deal Monday</a>, joining three others that have failed to approve contracts over concerns about <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-207229bcd558b6a6c1d58f3f85e2d804">demanding schedules</a> and the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-business-strikes-940da8fc519f8c526ca614e201d01216">lack of paid sick time</a>. That raises the risk of a strike, which could start as soon as Dec. 5.

It
 wouldn’t take long for the effects of a rail strike to trickle through 
the economy. Many businesses only have a few days’ worth of raw 
materials and space for finished goods. Makers of food, fuel, cars and 
chemicals would all feel the squeeze, as would their customers.

That's
 not to mention the commuters who would be left stranded because many 
passenger railroads use tracks owned by the freight railroads.

The
 stakes are so high for the economy that Congress is expected to 
intervene and impose contract terms on railroad workers. The last time 
US railroads went on strike was in 1992. That strike lasted two days 
before Congress intervened. An extended rail shutdown has not happened 
for a century, partly because a law passed in 1926 that governs rail 
negotiations made it much harder for workers to strike.

Here are some of the expected impacts of a rail strike:

Railroads haul about 40% of the nation's freight each year. The railroads estimated that a rail strike would <a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-congress-government-and-politics-a53abd85fa6f8b3ccd622222ea9a4c46">cost the economy $2 billion</a>
 a day in a report issued earlier this fall. Another recent report put 
together by a chemical industry trade group projected that if a strike 
drags on for a month some 700,000 jobs would be lost as manufacturers 
who rely on railroads shut down, prices of nearly everything would 
increase even more and the economy could be thrust into a recession.

And
 although some businesses would try to shift shipments over to trucks, 
there aren't nearly enough of them available. The Association of 
American Railroads trade group estimated that 467,000 additional trucks a
 day would be needed to handle everything railroads deliver.

Chemical
 manufacturers and refineries will be some of the first businesses 
affected, because railroads will stop shipping hazardous chemicals about
 a week before the strike deadline to ensure that no tank cars filled 
with dangerous liquids wind up stranded.

Jeff Sloan with the 
American Chemistry Council trade group said chemical plants could be 
close to shutting down by the time a rail strike actually begins because
 of that.

That means the chlorine that water treatment plants rely
 on to purify water, which they might only have about a week's supply of
 on hand, would become hard to get. It would be hard for manufacturers 
to make anything out of plastic without the chemicals that are part of 
the formula. Consumers will also pay more for gasoline if refineries 
shut down either because they can't get the ingredients they need to 
make fuel or because railroads aren't available to haul away byproducts 
like sulfur.

Chemical plants also produce carbon dioxide as a 
byproduct, so the supply of carbon dioxide that beverage makers use to 
carbonate soda and beer would also be restricted, even though the gas 
typically moves via pipelines.

Roughly 
half of all commuter rail systems rely at least in part on tracks that 
are owned by freight railroads, and nearly all of Amtrak’s long-distance
 trains run over the freight network.

Back in September, Amtrak 
cancelled all of its long-distance trains days ahead of the strike 
deadline to ensure passengers wouldn’t be left stranded in remote parts 
of the country while still en route to their destination.

And 
major commuter rail services in Chicago, Minneapolis, Maryland and 
Washington state all warned then that some of their operations would be 
suspended in the event of a rail strike.

It would
 take about a week for customers to notice shortages of things like 
cereal, peanut butter and beer at the grocery store, said Tom Madrecki, 
vice president of supply chain for the Consumer Brands Association.

About
 30% of all packaged food in the U.S. is moved by rail, he said. That 
percentage is much higher for denser, heavier items like cans of soup.

Some
 products, like cereal, cooking oils and beer, have entire operations 
built around rail deliveries of raw ingredients like grain, barley and 
peanuts, along with shipments of finished products.

Those 
companies typically keep only two to four days’ worth of raw ingredients
 on hand because it’s expensive to store them, Madrecki said, and 
grocers also keep a limited supply of products on hand.

Madrecki 
said big food companies don't like to discuss the threat of a rail 
strike because of worries about product shortages can lead to panic 
buying.

Any disruption in rail service could 
threaten the health of chickens and pigs, which depend on trains to 
deliver their feed, and contribute to higher meat prices.

“Our 
members rely on about 27 million bushels of corn and 11 million bushels 
of soybean meal every week to feed their chickens. Much of that is moved
 by rail,” said Tom Super, a spokesman for the National Chicken Council,
 a trade group for the industry raising chickens for meat.

The 
National Grain and Feed Association said a rail strike now would hit 
pork and chicken producers in the southern U.S. hardest, because their 
local supply of corn and soybeans from this year’s harvest is likely 
exhausted and they’d have to ship feed by truck, dramatically increasing
 costs.

“They only have so much storage. They can’t go without 
rail service for too long before they’d have to shut down the feed mills
 and they run into problems,” said Max Fisher, the NGFA's chief 
economist.

Jess Dankert, the vice president for
 supply chain at the Retail Industry Leaders Association, said 
retailers’ inventory is largely in place for the holidays. But the 
industry is developing contingency plans.

“We don’t see, you know,
 canceling Christmas and that kind of narrative,” Dankert said. “But I 
think we will see the generalized disruption of really anything that 
moves by rail.”

David Garfield, a managing director with the 
consulting firm AlixPartners, said a rail strike could still impact 
holiday items shipped to stores later in December, and would definitely 
hamper stocking of next season’s goods.

Retailers are also 
concerned about online orders. Shippers like FedEx and UPS use rail cars
 that hold roughly 2,000 packages in each car.

Drivers
 are already paying record prices and often waiting months for new 
vehicles because of the production problems in the auto industry related
 to the shortage of computer chips in recent years.

That would 
only get worse if there is a rail strike, because roughly 75% of all new
 vehicles begin their journey from factories to dealerships on the 
railroad. Trains deliver some 2,000 carloads a day filled with vehicles.

And
 automakers may have a hard time keeping their plants running during a 
strike because some larger parts and raw materials are transported by 
rail.

Associated Press Writers David Pitt in Des Moines, Iowa, and Dee-Ann Durbin in Detroit contributed to this report.

By JOSH FUNK Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. — American consumers and nearly every industry will be affected if freight trains grind to a halt next month.One of the biggest rail unions <a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-congress-government-and-politics-79d2e2c2779598b0a14396464ee4f7e9">rejected its deal Monday</a>, joining three others that have failed to approve contracts over concerns about <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-207229bcd558b6a6c1d58f3f85e2d804">demanding schedules</a> and the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-business-strikes-940da8fc519f8c526ca614e201d01216">lack of paid sick time</a>. That raises the risk of a strike, which could start as soon as Dec. 5.It
 wouldn’t take long for the effects of a rail strike to trickle through 
the economy. Many businesses only have a few days’ worth of raw 
materials and space for finished goods. Makers of food, fuel, cars and 
chemicals would all feel the squeeze, as would their customers.That's
 not to mention the commuters who would be left stranded because many 
passenger railroads use tracks owned by the freight railroads.The
 stakes are so high for the economy that Congress is expected to 
intervene and impose contract terms on railroad workers. The last time 
US railroads went on strike was in 1992. That strike lasted two days 
before Congress intervened. An extended rail shutdown has not happened 
for a century, partly because a law passed in 1926 that governs rail 
negotiations made it much harder for workers to strike.Here are some of the expected impacts of a rail strike:$2 BILLION A DAYRailroads haul about 40% of the nation's freight each year. The railroads estimated that a rail strike would <a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-congress-government-and-politics-a53abd85fa6f8b3ccd622222ea9a4c46">cost the economy $2 billion</a>
 a day in a report issued earlier this fall. Another recent report put 
together by a chemical industry trade group projected that if a strike 
drags on for a month some 700,000 jobs would be lost as manufacturers 
who rely on railroads shut down, prices of nearly everything would 
increase even more and the economy could be thrust into a recession.And
 although some businesses would try to shift shipments over to trucks, 
there aren't nearly enough of them available. The Association of 
American Railroads trade group estimated that 467,000 additional trucks a
 day would be needed to handle everything railroads deliver.CHEMICALS RUN DRYChemical
 manufacturers and refineries will be some of the first businesses 
affected, because railroads will stop shipping hazardous chemicals about
 a week before the strike deadline to ensure that no tank cars filled 
with dangerous liquids wind up stranded.Jeff Sloan with the 
American Chemistry Council trade group said chemical plants could be 
close to shutting down by the time a rail strike actually begins because
 of that.That means the chlorine that water treatment plants rely
 on to purify water, which they might only have about a week's supply of
 on hand, would become hard to get. It would be hard for manufacturers 
to make anything out of plastic without the chemicals that are part of 
the formula. Consumers will also pay more for gasoline if refineries 
shut down either because they can't get the ingredients they need to 
make fuel or because railroads aren't available to haul away byproducts 
like sulfur.Chemical plants also produce carbon dioxide as a 
byproduct, so the supply of carbon dioxide that beverage makers use to 
carbonate soda and beer would also be restricted, even though the gas 
typically moves via pipelines.PASSENGER PROBLEMSRoughly 
half of all commuter rail systems rely at least in part on tracks that 
are owned by freight railroads, and nearly all of Amtrak’s long-distance
 trains run over the freight network.Back in September, Amtrak 
cancelled all of its long-distance trains days ahead of the strike 
deadline to ensure passengers wouldn’t be left stranded in remote parts 
of the country while still en route to their destination.And 
major commuter rail services in Chicago, Minneapolis, Maryland and 
Washington state all warned then that some of their operations would be 
suspended in the event of a rail strike.FOOD FEARSIt would
 take about a week for customers to notice shortages of things like 
cereal, peanut butter and beer at the grocery store, said Tom Madrecki, 
vice president of supply chain for the Consumer Brands Association.About
 30% of all packaged food in the U.S. is moved by rail, he said. That 
percentage is much higher for denser, heavier items like cans of soup.Some
 products, like cereal, cooking oils and beer, have entire operations 
built around rail deliveries of raw ingredients like grain, barley and 
peanuts, along with shipments of finished products.Those 
companies typically keep only two to four days’ worth of raw ingredients
 on hand because it’s expensive to store them, Madrecki said, and 
grocers also keep a limited supply of products on hand.Madrecki 
said big food companies don't like to discuss the threat of a rail 
strike because of worries about product shortages can lead to panic 
buying.HUNGRY HERDSAny disruption in rail service could 
threaten the health of chickens and pigs, which depend on trains to 
deliver their feed, and contribute to higher meat prices.“Our 
members rely on about 27 million bushels of corn and 11 million bushels 
of soybean meal every week to feed their chickens. Much of that is moved
 by rail,” said Tom Super, a spokesman for the National Chicken Council,
 a trade group for the industry raising chickens for meat.The 
National Grain and Feed Association said a rail strike now would hit 
pork and chicken producers in the southern U.S. hardest, because their 
local supply of corn and soybeans from this year’s harvest is likely 
exhausted and they’d have to ship feed by truck, dramatically increasing
 costs.“They only have so much storage. They can’t go without 
rail service for too long before they’d have to shut down the feed mills
 and they run into problems,” said Max Fisher, the NGFA's chief 
economist.RETAIL RISKSJess Dankert, the vice president for
 supply chain at the Retail Industry Leaders Association, said 
retailers’ inventory is largely in place for the holidays. But the 
industry is developing contingency plans.“We don’t see, you know,
 canceling Christmas and that kind of narrative,” Dankert said. “But I 
think we will see the generalized disruption of really anything that 
moves by rail.”David Garfield, a managing director with the 
consulting firm AlixPartners, said a rail strike could still impact 
holiday items shipped to stores later in December, and would definitely 
hamper stocking of next season’s goods.Retailers are also 
concerned about online orders. Shippers like FedEx and UPS use rail cars
 that hold roughly 2,000 packages in each car.AUTOMOBILE ANGSTDrivers
 are already paying record prices and often waiting months for new 
vehicles because of the production problems in the auto industry related
 to the shortage of computer chips in recent years.That would 
only get worse if there is a rail strike, because roughly 75% of all new
 vehicles begin their journey from factories to dealerships on the 
railroad. Trains deliver some 2,000 carloads a day filled with vehicles.And
 automakers may have a hard time keeping their plants running during a 
strike because some larger parts and raw materials are transported by 
rail.Associated Press Writers David Pitt in Des Moines, Iowa, and Dee-Ann Durbin in Detroit contributed to this report.

A rail strike looms and impact on US economy could be broad

By JASON HANCOCK <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-ag-set-to-depose-anthony-fauci-in-social-media-lawsuit/">Missouri Independent</a>

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s 
top infectious disease expert, is scheduled to be questioned under oath 
as part of a lawsuit alleging the federal government colluded with 
social media companies to suppress free speech, the Missouri attorney 
general’s office announced Tuesday.

Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt and Louisiana Attorney General
 Jeff Landry on Wednesday will depose Fauci, who serves as director of 
the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. The pair of 
attorneys general filed the lawsuit in May against Fauci and a 
smattering of federal officials.

A federal court granted the request for depositions of top Biden Administration officials last month.

“We plan to get answers on behalf of the American people. Stay 
tuned,” said Schmitt, who will step down from the attorney general’s 
office in January to be sworn in as a U.S. Senator.

Last week, a Louisiana judge refused to quash a subpoena issued to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jen-psaki-subpoena-lawsuit-missouri-louisiana/">former White House press secretary Jen Psaki that seeks her deposition</a>.

However on Monday, a federal appeals court <a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2022/11/21/depositions-biden-administration-social-media-censorship-suit-00070363">halted planned court-ordered depositions</a> of three other top Biden administration officials.

The lawsuit originally only included Missouri and Louisiana as 
plaintiffs. In August, Schmitt added several new plaintiffs to the case,
 including <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/11/21/missouri-ag-aligns-with-st-louis-conspiracy-theorist-in-social-media-lawsuit/">St. Louis conspiracy theorist Jim Hoft</a>, who was banned from Twitter last year after repeatedly&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/07/media/twitter-ban-gateway-pundit-founder-jim-hoft/index.html">promoting falsehoods about the 2020 presidential election</a>.

In the nearly two decades since its founding,&nbsp;Hoft’s website has 
spread debunked conspiracies on a wide range of topics, from&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/what-is-gateway-pundit-the-conspiracy-hawking-site-at-the-center-of-the-bogus-florida-crisis-actors-hype/2018/02/23/dded562a-174e-11e8-b681-2d4d462a1921_story.html">2018 Parkland school shooting</a>&nbsp;to former President Barack Obama’s birth certificate. More recently, he’s helped proliferate&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.npr.org/2022/11/02/1133465632/why-conspiracy-theories-about-paul-pelosis-assault-keep-circulating">lies about the brutal</a>&nbsp;attack on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband and made false claims about&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2022/nov/15/instagram-posts/ftx-helped-with-a-cryptocurrency-fundraising-site/">U.S. aid money sent to Ukraine</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638385235681.png" alt="Fauci" />
 <figcaption>Fauci</figcaption>
 </figure>By JASON HANCOCK <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-ag-set-to-depose-anthony-fauci-in-social-media-lawsuit/">Missouri Independent</a>Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s 
top infectious disease expert, is scheduled to be questioned under oath 
as part of a lawsuit alleging the federal government colluded with 
social media companies to suppress free speech, the Missouri attorney 
general’s office announced Tuesday.Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt and Louisiana Attorney General
 Jeff Landry on Wednesday will depose Fauci, who serves as director of 
the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. The pair of 
attorneys general filed the lawsuit in May against Fauci and a 
smattering of federal officials.A federal court granted the request for depositions of top Biden Administration officials last month.“We plan to get answers on behalf of the American people. Stay 
tuned,” said Schmitt, who will step down from the attorney general’s 
office in January to be sworn in as a U.S. Senator.Last week, a Louisiana judge refused to quash a subpoena issued to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jen-psaki-subpoena-lawsuit-missouri-louisiana/">former White House press secretary Jen Psaki that seeks her deposition</a>.However on Monday, a federal appeals court <a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2022/11/21/depositions-biden-administration-social-media-censorship-suit-00070363">halted planned court-ordered depositions</a> of three other top Biden administration officials.The lawsuit originally only included Missouri and Louisiana as 
plaintiffs. In August, Schmitt added several new plaintiffs to the case,
 including <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/11/21/missouri-ag-aligns-with-st-louis-conspiracy-theorist-in-social-media-lawsuit/">St. Louis conspiracy theorist Jim Hoft</a>, who was banned from Twitter last year after repeatedly&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/07/media/twitter-ban-gateway-pundit-founder-jim-hoft/index.html">promoting falsehoods about the 2020 presidential election</a>.In the nearly two decades since its founding,&nbsp;Hoft’s website has 
spread debunked conspiracies on a wide range of topics, from&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/what-is-gateway-pundit-the-conspiracy-hawking-site-at-the-center-of-the-bogus-florida-crisis-actors-hype/2018/02/23/dded562a-174e-11e8-b681-2d4d462a1921_story.html">2018 Parkland school shooting</a>&nbsp;to former President Barack Obama’s birth certificate. More recently, he’s helped proliferate&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.npr.org/2022/11/02/1133465632/why-conspiracy-theories-about-paul-pelosis-assault-keep-circulating">lies about the brutal</a>&nbsp;attack on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband and made false claims about&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2022/nov/15/instagram-posts/ftx-helped-with-a-cryptocurrency-fundraising-site/">U.S. aid money sent to Ukraine</a>.

Missouri AG set to depose Fauci in social media lawsuit

WASHINGTON —The U.S. Department of Education announced on Tuesday an extension of the pause on student loan repayment, interest, and collections, according to a media release from the agency.

 The extension will alleviate uncertainty for borrowers as the Biden-Harris Administration asks the Supreme Court to review the lower-court orders that are preventing the Department from providing debt relief for tens of millions of Americans.

Payments will resume 60 days after the Department is permitted to implement the program or the litigation is resolved, which will give the Supreme Court an opportunity to resolve the case during its current Term. If the program has not been implemented and the litigation has not been resolved by June 30, 2023 – payments will resume 60 days after that.

“Callous efforts to block student debt relief in the courts have caused tremendous financial uncertainty for millions of borrowers who cannot set their family budgets or even plan for the holidays without a clear picture of their student debt obligations, and it’s just plain wrong,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “I want borrowers to know that the Biden-Harris Administration has their backs and we’re as committed as ever to fighting to deliver essential student debt relief to tens of millions of Americans. We’re extending the payment pause because it would be deeply unfair to ask borrowers to pay a debt that they wouldn’t have to pay, were it not for the baseless lawsuits brought by Republican officials and special interests.”&nbsp;

On August 24, President Biden and Secretary Cardona announced plans to provide targeted student debt relief to borrowers with loans held by the Department of Education. Borrowers with annual income during the pandemic of under $125,000 (for individuals) or under $250,000 (for married couples or heads of households) who received a Pell Grant in college would be eligible for up to $20,000 in debt cancellation. Targeted student debt relief addresses the financial harms of the pandemic, provides borrowers with smooth transition back to repayment and helps borrowers at highest risk of delinquencies or default once payments resume.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To date, over 26 million people have provided the Department with the necessary information to be considered for debt relief, and 16 million borrowers have been approved. But court orders are blocking the Department from discharging student loan debt and accepting additional applications.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Last week, the Department of Justice requested that the Supreme Court lift the lower court’s injunction against the program and suggested that if the Court does not do so, it could take up the student debt relief case, to provide borrowers the clarity and relief they are depending on.

Borrowers can use the additional time to ensure their contact information is up to date with their loan servicers and consider enrolling in electronic debit and income-driven repayment plans to support a smooth transition to repayment. More information can be found at StudentAid.gov.&nbsp;

In addition to providing relief specifically targeted to alleviating the continuing economic effects of the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, the Biden-Harris Administration has also taken other steps to support students and borrowers, make higher education more affordable, and improve student loan servicing, including providing nearly $48 billion in targeted loan relief to over 1.8 million borrowers. Actions within that include:&nbsp;

WASHINGTON —The U.S. Department of Education announced on Tuesday an extension of the pause on student loan repayment, interest, and collections, according to a media release from the agency.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I&#39;m confident that our student debt relief plan is legal. But it’s on hold because Republican officials want to block it. That&#39;s why <a href="https://twitter.com/SecCardona?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecCardona</a> is extending the payment pause to no later than June 30, 2023, giving the Supreme Court time to hear the case in its current term. <a href="https://t.co/873CurlHFZ">pic.twitter.com/873CurlHFZ</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1595150070285885440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> The extension will alleviate uncertainty for borrowers as the Biden-Harris Administration asks the Supreme Court to review the lower-court orders that are preventing the Department from providing debt relief for tens of millions of Americans.Payments will resume 60 days after the Department is permitted to implement the program or the litigation is resolved, which will give the Supreme Court an opportunity to resolve the case during its current Term. If the program has not been implemented and the litigation has not been resolved by June 30, 2023 – payments will resume 60 days after that. “Callous efforts to block student debt relief in the courts have caused tremendous financial uncertainty for millions of borrowers who cannot set their family budgets or even plan for the holidays without a clear picture of their student debt obligations, and it’s just plain wrong,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “I want borrowers to know that the Biden-Harris Administration has their backs and we’re as committed as ever to fighting to deliver essential student debt relief to tens of millions of Americans. We’re extending the payment pause because it would be deeply unfair to ask borrowers to pay a debt that they wouldn’t have to pay, were it not for the baseless lawsuits brought by Republican officials and special interests.”&nbsp;On August 24, President Biden and Secretary Cardona announced plans to provide targeted student debt relief to borrowers with loans held by the Department of Education. Borrowers with annual income during the pandemic of under $125,000 (for individuals) or under $250,000 (for married couples or heads of households) who received a Pell Grant in college would be eligible for up to $20,000 in debt cancellation. Targeted student debt relief addresses the financial harms of the pandemic, provides borrowers with smooth transition back to repayment and helps borrowers at highest risk of delinquencies or default once payments resume.&nbsp;&nbsp;To date, over 26 million people have provided the Department with the necessary information to be considered for debt relief, and 16 million borrowers have been approved. But court orders are blocking the Department from discharging student loan debt and accepting additional applications.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last week, the Department of Justice requested that the Supreme Court lift the lower court’s injunction against the program and suggested that if the Court does not do so, it could take up the student debt relief case, to provide borrowers the clarity and relief they are depending on.Borrowers can use the additional time to ensure their contact information is up to date with their loan servicers and consider enrolling in electronic debit and income-driven repayment plans to support a smooth transition to repayment. More information can be found at StudentAid.gov.&nbsp;In addition to providing relief specifically targeted to alleviating the continuing economic effects of the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, the Biden-Harris Administration has also taken other steps to support students and borrowers, make higher education more affordable, and improve student loan servicing, including providing nearly $48 billion in targeted loan relief to over 1.8 million borrowers. Actions within that include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Revamping the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program in October, which has provided $24 billion in loan relief to 360,000 borrowers. The Department’s Limited PSLF Waiver helped eligible borrower count all prior payments made by student borrowers toward PSLF, regardless of the loan program.</li><li>Giving borrowers with Direct Loans or Department-managed Federal Family Education Loans (FFEL) more credit toward forgiveness. The Department’s one-time account adjustment counts for all months spent in repayment, including payments prior to consolidation and regardless of whether they made partial or late payments or are on a repayment plan toward income-driven repayment (IDR) and PSLF forgiveness.</li><li>Establishing a fair and accessible bankruptcy discharge process to help struggling borrowers discharge their student loans.</li><li>Providing $9.1 billion in relief for 425,000 borrowers who have a total and permanent disability.</li><li>Approving $14.5 billion in borrower defense claims to nearly 1.1 million borrowers, including extending full relief to approved claims and approving new types of claims.&nbsp;</li><li>Providing $1.26 billion in closed school discharges to 107,000 borrowers who attended the now-defunct ITT Technical Institute.</li><li>Restoring eligibility for financial student aid to almost 7.5 million borrowers to help them complete their credential or degree.</li>
 </ul>

🎥Biden extends pause on federal student loan repayments 

Troopers will be out on the roads to assist motorists throughout the holiday weekend

Kansas roads will soon be busy with holiday travelers going to and from their destinations for Thanksgiving. The Kansas Highway Patrol, along with other law enforcement agencies across the state, will participate in the annual Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP). The STEP program is courtesy of a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation.

The patrol and other agencies will focus on impaired drivers, child passenger safety laws, and seat belt use among travelers of all ages. Because of the program, there will be more law enforcement officers on Kansas streets and highways during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday period while travel increases.

Before hitting the road this holiday season, the Patrol encourages motorists to take the following things into consideration:

●Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. Check tires’ tread depth and air pressure; check the vehicle’s fluids, exhaust system and other mechanical equipment. If traveling in cold conditions, make sure added precautions are taken for the cold weather.

●When you leave, start with a full tank of gas and a fully charged phone.

 ●The vehicle should also be stocked with items that would be beneficial if you were involved in a crash, such as bottled water, blankets, non-perishable food, first aid kit and a flashlight with extra batteries.

●Make sure to plan your route of travel and communicate this to your family in case you are involved in a crash or experience mechanical problems with your vehicle.

●Dress for the weather. If you plan to travel in cold weather, make sure you have a coat in the vehicle and warm shoes in case you need to stop for any reason.

●Remember, we are in the peak time for car-deer crashes in our state. Look out for deer, and if you see one, remember they seldom travel alone, so more could be following.

●Check your route of travel for road conditions and/or construction work or other delays before you leave. The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) provides a 511 road condition hotline for motorists to use. Call&nbsp;5-1-1&nbsp;from any phone or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kandrive.org">kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;to check road conditions in the state of Kansas.

●As you travel, remember to&nbsp;MOVE OVER&nbsp;for first responders and highway maintenance crews. If you are unable to&nbsp;MOVE OVER, then please&nbsp;SLOW DOWN.

●Ensure everyone in your vehicle is using their seat belt and/or appropriately fitted child safety seat.

●Arrange for a designated driver ahead of time if you will be consuming alcohol. Do not drink and drive, and do not let your family or friends drive while impaired. If you are hosting a party, have non-alcoholic drink alternatives available for designated drivers.

If you find yourself in need of assistance on a Kansas highway this holiday season, please dial&nbsp;<a href="tel: *47">*47</a>&nbsp;(*HP), or dial&nbsp;<a href="tel: *582">*582</a>&nbsp;(*KTA) on the Kansas Turnpike, and we’ll send someone to assist. We wish all our travelers a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664639658117.png" alt="The patrol and other agencies will focus on impaired drivers, child passenger safety laws, and seat belt use among travelers of all ages. KHP file photo" />
 <figcaption>The patrol and other agencies will focus on impaired drivers, child passenger safety laws, and seat belt use among travelers of all ages. KHP file photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Troopers will be out on the roads to assist motorists throughout the holiday weekend</h2>Kansas Highway PatrolKansas roads will soon be busy with holiday travelers going to and from their destinations for Thanksgiving. The Kansas Highway Patrol, along with other law enforcement agencies across the state, will participate in the annual Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP). The STEP program is courtesy of a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation.The patrol and other agencies will focus on impaired drivers, child passenger safety laws, and seat belt use among travelers of all ages. Because of the program, there will be more law enforcement officers on Kansas streets and highways during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday period while travel increases.Before hitting the road this holiday season, the Patrol encourages motorists to take the following things into consideration:●Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. Check tires’ tread depth and air pressure; check the vehicle’s fluids, exhaust system and other mechanical equipment. If traveling in cold conditions, make sure added precautions are taken for the cold weather.●When you leave, start with a full tank of gas and a fully charged phone. ●The vehicle should also be stocked with items that would be beneficial if you were involved in a crash, such as bottled water, blankets, non-perishable food, first aid kit and a flashlight with extra batteries.●Make sure to plan your route of travel and communicate this to your family in case you are involved in a crash or experience mechanical problems with your vehicle.●Dress for the weather. If you plan to travel in cold weather, make sure you have a coat in the vehicle and warm shoes in case you need to stop for any reason.●Remember, we are in the peak time for car-deer crashes in our state. Look out for deer, and if you see one, remember they seldom travel alone, so more could be following.●Check your route of travel for road conditions and/or construction work or other delays before you leave. The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) provides a 511 road condition hotline for motorists to use. Call&nbsp;5-1-1&nbsp;from any phone or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kandrive.org">kandrive.org</a>&nbsp;to check road conditions in the state of Kansas.●As you travel, remember to&nbsp;MOVE OVER&nbsp;for first responders and highway maintenance crews. If you are unable to&nbsp;MOVE OVER, then please&nbsp;SLOW DOWN.●Ensure everyone in your vehicle is using their seat belt and/or appropriately fitted child safety seat.●Arrange for a designated driver ahead of time if you will be consuming alcohol. Do not drink and drive, and do not let your family or friends drive while impaired. If you are hosting a party, have non-alcoholic drink alternatives available for designated drivers.If you find yourself in need of assistance on a Kansas highway this holiday season, please dial&nbsp;<a href="tel: *47">*47</a>&nbsp;(*HP), or dial&nbsp;<a href="tel: *582">*582</a>&nbsp;(*KTA) on the Kansas Turnpike, and we’ll send someone to assist. We wish all our travelers a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

KHP encourages, gives tips for safer Thanksgiving travel

By MARK SHERMAN Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Tuesday cleared the way for the imminent handover of <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">former President Donald Trump's</a> tax returns to a congressional committee after a three-year legal fight.

The
 court, without comment, rejected Trump's plea for an order that would 
have prevented the Treasury Department from giving six years of tax 
returns for Trump and some of his businesses to the 
Democratic-controlled House Ways and Means Committee.

It was Trump's second loss at the Supreme Court in as many months, and third this year. In October, the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-mar-a-lago-government-and-politics-14a7106b99130bb6e3ffaafc845e268f">court refused to step into the legal fight surrounding the FBI search of Trump's Florida estate</a> that turned up classified documents.

In
 January, the court refused to stop the National Archives from turning 
over documents to the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 
insurrection at the Capitol. Justice Clarence Thomas was the only vote 
in Trump's favor.

In the dispute over his tax returns, the 
Treasury Department had refused to provide the records during Trump's 
presidency. But the Biden administration said federal law is clear that 
the committee has the right to examine any taxpayer's return, including 
the president's.

Lower courts agreed that the committee has broad 
authority to obtain tax returns and rejected Trump’s claims that it was 
overstepping and only wanted the documents so they could be made public.

Chief
 Justice John Roberts imposed a temporary freeze on Nov. 1 to allow the 
court to weigh the legal issues raised by Trump's lawyers and the 
counter arguments of the administration and the House of 
Representatives.

Just over three weeks later, the court lifted Roberts' order with no noted dissents.

The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The
 House contended an order preventing the IRS from providing the tax 
returns would leave lawmakers “little or no time to complete their 
legislative work during this Congress, which is quickly approaching its 
end.”

Had Trump persuaded the nation’s highest court to intervene,
 he could have run out the clock on the committee, with Republicans 
ready to take control of the House in January. They almost certainly 
would have dropped the records request if the issue had not been 
resolved by then.

The House Ways and Means panel and its chairman,
 Democrat Richard Neal of Massachusetts, first requested Trump’s tax 
returns in 2019 as part of an investigation into the Internal Revenue 
Service’s audit program and tax law compliance by the former president. A
 federal law says the Internal Revenue Service “shall furnish” the 
returns of any taxpayer to a handful of top lawmakers.

The Justice
 Department under the Trump administration had defended a decision by 
then-Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to withhold the tax returns from 
Congress. Mnuchin argued that he could withhold the documents because he
 concluded they were being sought by Democrats for partisan reasons. A 
lawsuit ensued.

After President Joe Biden took office, the 
committee renewed the request, seeking Trump’s tax returns and 
additional information from 2015-2020. The White House took the position
 that the request was a valid one and that the Treasury Department had 
no choice but to comply. Trump then attempted to halt the handover in 
court.

Then-Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr. obtained 
copies of Trump’s personal and business tax records as part of a 
criminal investigation. That case, too, went to the Supreme Court, which
 rejected Trump’s argument that he had broad immunity as president.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668907251214.jpeg" alt="Former President Donald Trump speaks at Mar-a-Lago on Nov. 18 in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)" />
 <figcaption>Former President Donald Trump speaks at Mar-a-Lago on Nov. 18 in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK SHERMAN Associated PressWASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Tuesday cleared the way for the imminent handover of <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">former President Donald Trump's</a> tax returns to a congressional committee after a three-year legal fight.The
 court, without comment, rejected Trump's plea for an order that would 
have prevented the Treasury Department from giving six years of tax 
returns for Trump and some of his businesses to the 
Democratic-controlled House Ways and Means Committee.It was Trump's second loss at the Supreme Court in as many months, and third this year. In October, the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-mar-a-lago-government-and-politics-14a7106b99130bb6e3ffaafc845e268f">court refused to step into the legal fight surrounding the FBI search of Trump's Florida estate</a> that turned up classified documents.In
 January, the court refused to stop the National Archives from turning 
over documents to the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 
insurrection at the Capitol. Justice Clarence Thomas was the only vote 
in Trump's favor.In the dispute over his tax returns, the 
Treasury Department had refused to provide the records during Trump's 
presidency. But the Biden administration said federal law is clear that 
the committee has the right to examine any taxpayer's return, including 
the president's.Lower courts agreed that the committee has broad 
authority to obtain tax returns and rejected Trump’s claims that it was 
overstepping and only wanted the documents so they could be made public.Chief
 Justice John Roberts imposed a temporary freeze on Nov. 1 to allow the 
court to weigh the legal issues raised by Trump's lawyers and the 
counter arguments of the administration and the House of 
Representatives.Just over three weeks later, the court lifted Roberts' order with no noted dissents.The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.The
 House contended an order preventing the IRS from providing the tax 
returns would leave lawmakers “little or no time to complete their 
legislative work during this Congress, which is quickly approaching its 
end.”Had Trump persuaded the nation’s highest court to intervene,
 he could have run out the clock on the committee, with Republicans 
ready to take control of the House in January. They almost certainly 
would have dropped the records request if the issue had not been 
resolved by then.The House Ways and Means panel and its chairman,
 Democrat Richard Neal of Massachusetts, first requested Trump’s tax 
returns in 2019 as part of an investigation into the Internal Revenue 
Service’s audit program and tax law compliance by the former president. A
 federal law says the Internal Revenue Service “shall furnish” the 
returns of any taxpayer to a handful of top lawmakers.The Justice
 Department under the Trump administration had defended a decision by 
then-Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to withhold the tax returns from 
Congress. Mnuchin argued that he could withhold the documents because he
 concluded they were being sought by Democrats for partisan reasons. A 
lawsuit ensued.After President Joe Biden took office, the 
committee renewed the request, seeking Trump’s tax returns and 
additional information from 2015-2020. The White House took the position
 that the request was a valid one and that the Treasury Department had 
no choice but to comply. Trump then attempted to halt the handover in 
court.Then-Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr. obtained 
copies of Trump’s personal and business tax records as part of a 
criminal investigation. That case, too, went to the Supreme Court, which
 rejected Trump’s argument that he had broad immunity as president.

Supreme Court OKs handover of Trump tax returns to Congress

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A Salina man 
was arrested on multiple requested charges including aggravated battery 
and abuse of a child after alleged incidents over a three-week period.

Officers
 were sent to the apartments at 1310 E. North Street on Monday after a 
neighbor reported hearing banging and screaming, Salina Police Captain 
Paul Forrester said this morning.

When officers arrived, they made contact with a 42-year-old woman  
who lives in the apartment with her two children - ages four and two - 
and her fiance, identified as Quincy Williams, 29, of Salina. Forrester 
said the woman told officers that over the past three weeks, she had 
several altercations with Williams.

She said the first incident 
occurred approximately three weeks ago in the basement of their 
apartment when Williams allegedly punched her in the face and ripped an 
earring from her ear, Forrester said. 

On Saturday, Williams 
allegedly punched her in the face again, this time while they were in a 
car at a southwest Salina convenience store. The woman was in the 
driver's seat, Williams was in the passenger seat, and the children were
 in the back seat, Forrester said. On Monday, she still appeared to have
 injuries from the Saturday incident, he added.

On Monday, the 
woman and Williams got into an argument over gas money. Williams 
allegedly got upset after making some phone calls and the woman tried to
 calm him down, Forrester said.

Williams allegedly threw a metal 
shelf causing a ceramic jar to break. He also allegedly damaged an air 
conditioning vent, Forrester said.

At that point, the woman went 
upstairs to where the children were and Williams followed her. Forrester
 said Williams allegedly began punching the four-year-old girl, and when
 the woman tried to intervene, Williams allegedly pushed her to the 
ground. At some point during the altercation, Williams allegedly went to
 the kitchen and retrieved what was possibly a steak knife.

Forrester
 said the girl had bruising on her face and a scratch on her chest. She 
told officers that the scratch came from a knife.

Williams was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester said:

●Abuse of a child ●Aggravated battery ●Three counts of domestic battery ●Criminal damage to property

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina man 
was arrested on multiple requested charges including aggravated battery 
and abuse of a child after alleged incidents over a three-week period.Officers
 were sent to the apartments at 1310 E. North Street on Monday after a 
neighbor reported hearing banging and screaming, Salina Police Captain 
Paul Forrester said this morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669139980210.jpeg" alt="Quincy Williams. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Quincy Williams. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>When officers arrived, they made contact with a 42-year-old woman 
who lives in the apartment with her two children - ages four and two - 
and her fiance, identified as Quincy Williams, 29, of Salina. Forrester 
said the woman told officers that over the past three weeks, she had 
several altercations with Williams.She said the first incident 
occurred approximately three weeks ago in the basement of their 
apartment when Williams allegedly punched her in the face and ripped an 
earring from her ear, Forrester said. On Saturday, Williams 
allegedly punched her in the face again, this time while they were in a 
car at a southwest Salina convenience store. The woman was in the 
driver's seat, Williams was in the passenger seat, and the children were
 in the back seat, Forrester said. On Monday, she still appeared to have
 injuries from the Saturday incident, he added.On Monday, the 
woman and Williams got into an argument over gas money. Williams 
allegedly got upset after making some phone calls and the woman tried to
 calm him down, Forrester said.Williams allegedly threw a metal 
shelf causing a ceramic jar to break. He also allegedly damaged an air 
conditioning vent, Forrester said.At that point, the woman went 
upstairs to where the children were and Williams followed her. Forrester
 said Williams allegedly began punching the four-year-old girl, and when
 the woman tried to intervene, Williams allegedly pushed her to the 
ground. At some point during the altercation, Williams allegedly went to
 the kitchen and retrieved what was possibly a steak knife.Forrester
 said the girl had bruising on her face and a scratch on her chest. She 
told officers that the scratch came from a knife.Williams was arrested on the following requested charges, Forrester said:●Abuse of a child ●Aggravated battery ●Three counts of domestic battery ●Criminal damage to property

Alleged battery, child abuse incidents land Kansas man in jail

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22JOSH%20FUNK%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By JOSH FUNK AP Business Writer</a>

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Consumers could see higher gas prices and shortages of some of their favorite groceries during the winter holiday season if railroads and all of their unions can't agree on new contracts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-economy-business-congress-kansas-city-southern-0daad98e345804513ca568068303cd22">by an early-December deadline</a>&nbsp;that had already been pushed back.

The likelihood of a strike that would paralyze the nation's rail traffic grew on Monday when the largest of the 12 rail unions, which represents mostly conductors, rejected management's latest offering that included 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses. With four of the 12 unions that represent half of the 115,000 rail workers holding out for a better deal, it might fall to Congress to impose one to protect the U.S. economy.

The Retail Industry Leaders Association said a rail strike “would cause enormous disruption" although retail stores are well stocked for the crucial holiday shopping season. It’s not clear what a strike would mean for packages because FedEx and UPS, which both rely on rail to some degree, haven’t commented in detail.

“Fortunately, this year’s holiday gifts have already landed on store shelves. But an interruption to rail transportation does pose a significant challenge to getting items like perishable food products and e-commerce shipments delivered on time, and it will undoubtedly add to the inflationary pressures already hitting the U.S. economy,” said Jess Dankert with the group that represents more than 200 major retailers.

Even getting close to the deadline could cause problems because railroads will freeze shipments of dangerous chemicals and perishable goods ahead of time. And commuters could be stranded if there is a strike because so many passenger railroads operate on tracks owned by the freight railroads.

Just about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-strike-impact-5eb6747b3e4b4e39d764644d6377121d">every industry</a>&nbsp;could be affected because so many businesses need railroads to deliver their raw materials and completed products, and there aren't enough trucks to pick up the slack.

Tom Madrecki with the Consumer Brands Association said a rail strike "would effectively bring hundreds of America’s largest food, beverage, household and personal care manufacturing operations to a halt in a matter of days as inputs and ingredients run out. On-shelf availability and accessibility will quickly drop, compounded by almost inevitable panic buying.”

There's no immediate threat of a strike even though four unions have rejected deals the Biden administration helped broker before the original strike deadline in September. Those unions agreed to try to hash out a contract before a new Dec. 5 strike deadline. But those talks have deadlocked because the railroads refuse to add&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-business-strikes-940da8fc519f8c526ca614e201d01216">paid sick time</a>&nbsp;to what they've already offered.

Railroad engineers voted Monday to join seven smaller unions in approving the deal, but conductors' union rejected its contract, joining&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-congress-kansas-city-southern-government-and-politics-763b5a75dd22bbdf1de52d6bf1879b29">three unions</a>&nbsp;that previously voted no.

It appears increasingly likely that Congress will have to settle the dispute. Lawmakers have the power to impose contract terms, and hundreds of business groups&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-economy-congress-government-and-politics-6b60d53fefc7b85f301b0a3e7011715b">have urged</a>&nbsp;Congress and President Joe Biden to be ready to intervene.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated to reporters on Monday that Biden believes “a shutdown is unacceptable" but that “the best option is still for the parties to resolve this themselves.”

Workers frustrated with the demanding schedules and deep job cuts in the industry pushed to reject these contracts because they wouldn't do enough to resolve their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-207229bcd558b6a6c1d58f3f85e2d804">quality-of-life concerns.</a>&nbsp;The deals for the engineers and conductors did include a promise to improve the scheduling of regular days off and negotiate the details of those schedules further at each railroad. Those two unions also received three unpaid days off a year to tend to medical needs as long they were scheduled at least 30 days in advance and the railroads said they wouldn't penalize workers who were hospitalized.

The railroads also lost out on their bid to cut crew sizes to one person as part of the negotiations. But the conductors in the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers union still narrowly rejected the deal. A small division of the SMART-TD union did approve it.

“The ball is now in the railroads’ court. Let’s see what they do. They can settle this at the bargaining table,” SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson said. “But, the railroad executives who constantly complain about government interference and regularly bad-mouth regulators and Congress now want Congress to do the bargaining for them.”

Dennis Pierce, the president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union, said the deal engineers ratified should help improve working conditions somewhat, but that the railroads must address workers' frustrations, especially after they cut nearly one-third of their jobs over the past six years as they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-us-news-norfolk-aab7d3084a8d17d8d721d2cb750be323">overhauled their operations</a>.

“When you’ve got to offer $20,000 to get somebody to go to work for the railroad in Lincoln, Nebraska, you’ve got a problem. People used to stand in line there,” Pierce said. “The reason for that is the word is out that if you go to work here, you’re not going to ever see your family.”

The railroads maintain that the deals with the unions should closely follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-norfolk-government-and-politics-eeedec386f2acba5d63181436ca03f3f">recommendations</a>&nbsp;made this summer by a special panel of arbitrators Biden appointed. That's part of the reason why they don't want to offer paid sick time. Plus, the railroads say the unions have agreed over the years to forgo paid sick time in favor of higher pay and strong short-term disability benefits.

The unions say it is long overdue for the railroads to offer paid sick time and that the pandemic highlighted the need for it.

The group that negotiates on behalf of the railroads that include Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern, BNSF, Kansas City Southern and CSX said Monday that the unions that rejected their deals shouldn't expect to receive more than the Presidential Emergency Board of arbitrators recommended.

It's unclear what Congress might do given the deep political divisions in Washington D.C. and a single lawmaker could hold up a resolution. But the head of the Association of American Railroads trade group, Ian Jefferies, said "if the remaining unions do not accept an agreement, Congress should be prepared to act and avoid a disastrous&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-congress-government-and-politics-a53abd85fa6f8b3ccd622222ea9a4c46">$2 billion a day hit</a>&nbsp;to our economy.”

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22JOSH%20FUNK%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By JOSH FUNK AP Business Writer</a>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Consumers could see higher gas prices and shortages of some of their favorite groceries during the winter holiday season if railroads and all of their unions can't agree on new contracts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-economy-business-congress-kansas-city-southern-0daad98e345804513ca568068303cd22">by an early-December deadline</a>&nbsp;that had already been pushed back.The likelihood of a strike that would paralyze the nation's rail traffic grew on Monday when the largest of the 12 rail unions, which represents mostly conductors, rejected management's latest offering that included 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses. With four of the 12 unions that represent half of the 115,000 rail workers holding out for a better deal, it might fall to Congress to impose one to protect the U.S. economy.The Retail Industry Leaders Association said a rail strike “would cause enormous disruption" although retail stores are well stocked for the crucial holiday shopping season. It’s not clear what a strike would mean for packages because FedEx and UPS, which both rely on rail to some degree, haven’t commented in detail.“Fortunately, this year’s holiday gifts have already landed on store shelves. But an interruption to rail transportation does pose a significant challenge to getting items like perishable food products and e-commerce shipments delivered on time, and it will undoubtedly add to the inflationary pressures already hitting the U.S. economy,” said Jess Dankert with the group that represents more than 200 major retailers.Even getting close to the deadline could cause problems because railroads will freeze shipments of dangerous chemicals and perishable goods ahead of time. And commuters could be stranded if there is a strike because so many passenger railroads operate on tracks owned by the freight railroads.Just about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-strike-impact-5eb6747b3e4b4e39d764644d6377121d">every industry</a>&nbsp;could be affected because so many businesses need railroads to deliver their raw materials and completed products, and there aren't enough trucks to pick up the slack.Tom Madrecki with the Consumer Brands Association said a rail strike "would effectively bring hundreds of America’s largest food, beverage, household and personal care manufacturing operations to a halt in a matter of days as inputs and ingredients run out. On-shelf availability and accessibility will quickly drop, compounded by almost inevitable panic buying.”There's no immediate threat of a strike even though four unions have rejected deals the Biden administration helped broker before the original strike deadline in September. Those unions agreed to try to hash out a contract before a new Dec. 5 strike deadline. But those talks have deadlocked because the railroads refuse to add&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-business-strikes-940da8fc519f8c526ca614e201d01216">paid sick time</a>&nbsp;to what they've already offered.Railroad engineers voted Monday to join seven smaller unions in approving the deal, but conductors' union rejected its contract, joining&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-congress-kansas-city-southern-government-and-politics-763b5a75dd22bbdf1de52d6bf1879b29">three unions</a>&nbsp;that previously voted no.It appears increasingly likely that Congress will have to settle the dispute. Lawmakers have the power to impose contract terms, and hundreds of business groups&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-economy-congress-government-and-politics-6b60d53fefc7b85f301b0a3e7011715b">have urged</a>&nbsp;Congress and President Joe Biden to be ready to intervene.White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated to reporters on Monday that Biden believes “a shutdown is unacceptable" but that “the best option is still for the parties to resolve this themselves.”Workers frustrated with the demanding schedules and deep job cuts in the industry pushed to reject these contracts because they wouldn't do enough to resolve their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-207229bcd558b6a6c1d58f3f85e2d804">quality-of-life concerns.</a>&nbsp;The deals for the engineers and conductors did include a promise to improve the scheduling of regular days off and negotiate the details of those schedules further at each railroad. Those two unions also received three unpaid days off a year to tend to medical needs as long they were scheduled at least 30 days in advance and the railroads said they wouldn't penalize workers who were hospitalized.The railroads also lost out on their bid to cut crew sizes to one person as part of the negotiations. But the conductors in the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers union still narrowly rejected the deal. A small division of the SMART-TD union did approve it.“The ball is now in the railroads’ court. Let’s see what they do. They can settle this at the bargaining table,” SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson said. “But, the railroad executives who constantly complain about government interference and regularly bad-mouth regulators and Congress now want Congress to do the bargaining for them.”Dennis Pierce, the president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union, said the deal engineers ratified should help improve working conditions somewhat, but that the railroads must address workers' frustrations, especially after they cut nearly one-third of their jobs over the past six years as they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-us-news-norfolk-aab7d3084a8d17d8d721d2cb750be323">overhauled their operations</a>.“When you’ve got to offer $20,000 to get somebody to go to work for the railroad in Lincoln, Nebraska, you’ve got a problem. People used to stand in line there,” Pierce said. “The reason for that is the word is out that if you go to work here, you’re not going to ever see your family.”The railroads maintain that the deals with the unions should closely follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-norfolk-government-and-politics-eeedec386f2acba5d63181436ca03f3f">recommendations</a>&nbsp;made this summer by a special panel of arbitrators Biden appointed. That's part of the reason why they don't want to offer paid sick time. Plus, the railroads say the unions have agreed over the years to forgo paid sick time in favor of higher pay and strong short-term disability benefits.The unions say it is long overdue for the railroads to offer paid sick time and that the pandemic highlighted the need for it.The group that negotiates on behalf of the railroads that include Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern, BNSF, Kansas City Southern and CSX said Monday that the unions that rejected their deals shouldn't expect to receive more than the Presidential Emergency Board of arbitrators recommended.It's unclear what Congress might do given the deep political divisions in Washington D.C. and a single lawmaker could hold up a resolution. But the head of the Association of American Railroads trade group, Ian Jefferies, said "if the remaining unions do not accept an agreement, Congress should be prepared to act and avoid a disastrous&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-congress-government-and-politics-a53abd85fa6f8b3ccd622222ea9a4c46">$2 billion a day hit</a>&nbsp;to our economy.”

Consumers could pay price if railroads, unions can't agree

RENO COUNTY — The Reno County Sheriff's Office on Monday posted an 
update that they are still looking for 67-year-old Leonard Anthony 
Williams. He was first reported missing on Oct. 9. They added 
that he was last seen in the area of Fun Valley.

There is still an active investigation taking place in attempt to locate Williams.

Williams
 was last seen wearing an orange sweater with blue jeans.  If anyone has
 seen him, please notify the Reno County Sheriff’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669124324968.jpeg" alt="Williams" />
 <figcaption>Williams</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch PostRENO COUNTY — The Reno County Sheriff's Office on Monday posted an 
update that they are still looking for 67-year-old Leonard Anthony 
Williams. He was first reported missing on Oct. 9. They added 
that he was last seen in the area of Fun Valley.There is still an active investigation taking place in attempt to locate Williams.Williams
 was last seen wearing an orange sweater with blue jeans. If anyone has
 seen him, please notify the Reno County Sheriff’s Office.

Police still searching for Hutch man reported missing Oct. 9

By MADDY ROHR K-State Research and Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan – Inflation has increased 13% in the last year, so it is no shock to shoppers that groceries have become more expensive. But Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee said that the outbreak of avian influenza in the U.S. also is partly responsible for increased holiday food costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“As of Nov. 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 50,371,760 birds have been affected, and this includes commercial and backyard flocks. It has been found in 46 states and there are 623 reported outbreaks,” said Blakeslee, who also is director of K-State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.ksu.edu/">Rapid Response Center for Food Science</a>.&nbsp;

Poultry deaths have resulted in meat and egg shortages leading to increased prices of meat and eggs. To save on grocery costs, Blakeslee said consumers can look for stores that may offer a free turkey when buying a certain number of other groceries.&nbsp;

“As a guideline (for buying a turkey), plan about one pound of turkey per person. Try buying a smaller turkey, and supplement with another favorite meat if you are having a large gathering,” Blakeslee said, adding that hosts can share the time and expense with guests by having them bring a favorite food.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Other tips to save on food costs include using coupons, buying only what you need, trying store brands instead of name brands and&nbsp;<a>making</a>&nbsp;a list before you go to the store to reduce impulse shopping.&nbsp;

To guard against poultry that may have been infected by avian influenza, “it is important to handle the meat safely, wash your hands, and cook the poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is true for healthy poultry, also,” Blakeslee said.&nbsp;

Avian influenza can be transferred to humans by close contact with infected birds, Blakeslee said. It is important to not handle birds that appear ill or have died.&nbsp;

Blakeslee publishes a monthly newsletter called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/newsletter">You Asked It!</a>&nbsp;that provides numerous tips on being safe and healthy. More information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.&nbsp;

By MADDY ROHR K-State Research and Extension news serviceMANHATTAN, Kan – Inflation has increased 13% in the last year, so it is no shock to shoppers that groceries have become more expensive. But Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee said that the outbreak of avian influenza in the U.S. also is partly responsible for increased holiday food costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;“As of Nov. 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 50,371,760 birds have been affected, and this includes commercial and backyard flocks. It has been found in 46 states and there are 623 reported outbreaks,” said Blakeslee, who also is director of K-State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.ksu.edu/">Rapid Response Center for Food Science</a>.&nbsp;Poultry deaths have resulted in meat and egg shortages leading to increased prices of meat and eggs. To save on grocery costs, Blakeslee said consumers can look for stores that may offer a free turkey when buying a certain number of other groceries.&nbsp;“As a guideline (for buying a turkey), plan about one pound of turkey per person. Try buying a smaller turkey, and supplement with another favorite meat if you are having a large gathering,” Blakeslee said, adding that hosts can share the time and expense with guests by having them bring a favorite food.&nbsp;&nbsp;Other tips to save on food costs include using coupons, buying only what you need, trying store brands instead of name brands and&nbsp;<a>making</a>&nbsp;a list before you go to the store to reduce impulse shopping.&nbsp;To guard against poultry that may have been infected by avian influenza, “it is important to handle the meat safely, wash your hands, and cook the poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is true for healthy poultry, also,” Blakeslee said.&nbsp;Avian influenza can be transferred to humans by close contact with infected birds, Blakeslee said. It is important to not handle birds that appear ill or have died.&nbsp;Blakeslee publishes a monthly newsletter called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/newsletter">You Asked It!</a>&nbsp;that provides numerous tips on being safe and healthy. More information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.&nbsp;

Bird flu having an impact on the cost of your holiday meals

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The process to get funding for a $32 million new hospital project in
Ellinwood has been in the works for nearly two years. With help from local
legislators, the Ellinwood Hospital was approved to receive a $25 million loan
from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help construct the
new hospital that will be located west of town on U.S. 56 Highway, across from
Ellinwood Packing Plant. 
Ellinwood Hospital Foundation Executive Director Kristy Rupe said it was
important to lock in the interest rates as quickly as possible before the rates
increased.

"Just about every rural hospital in Kansas fits this program funded by USDA," said Rupe. "It's a low-interest loan. They do require there to be a community support side on our end." 
Along with the USDA loan, a capital campaign is charged with fundraising $1.25
million and the hospital is responsible with covering the remaining expense.

The final architectural plans are finished and now Ellinwood Hospital staff is
waiting to hear bid proposals from contractors. 

With groundbreaking expected to
occur late this year or early 2023, construction on the new hospital will take
18 - 24 months. 

Future plans for the current hospital are up in the air. 
"The existing hospital is still our home for at least a couple of years," said Rupe. "There currently are no plans as to what will happen to it; however, the board said they are committed to making the best choice possible so that it's not an eyesore or blight to the community." 
Ellinwood Hospital purchased 15 acres along U.S. 56 Highway, and the new
facility is expected to consume 10 of those acres.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642796023188.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe process to get funding for a $32 million new hospital project in
Ellinwood has been in the works for nearly two years. With help from local
legislators, the Ellinwood Hospital was approved to receive a $25 million loan
from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help construct the
new hospital that will be located west of town on U.S. 56 Highway, across from
Ellinwood Packing Plant. 
Ellinwood Hospital Foundation Executive Director Kristy Rupe said it was
important to lock in the interest rates as quickly as possible before the rates
increased."Just about every rural hospital in Kansas fits this program funded by USDA," said Rupe. "It's a low-interest loan. They do require there to be a community support side on our end." 
Along with the USDA loan, a capital campaign is charged with fundraising $1.25
million and the hospital is responsible with covering the remaining expense.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667441674280.jpeg" alt="Architectural rendering of new Ellinwood Hospital." />
 <figcaption>Architectural rendering of new Ellinwood Hospital.</figcaption>
 </figure>The final architectural plans are finished and now Ellinwood Hospital staff is
waiting to hear bid proposals from contractors. With groundbreaking expected to
occur late this year or early 2023, construction on the new hospital will take
18 - 24 months. Future plans for the current hospital are up in the air. 
"The existing hospital is still our home for at least a couple of years," said Rupe. "There currently are no plans as to what will happen to it; however, the board said they are committed to making the best choice possible so that it's not an eyesore or blight to the community." 
Ellinwood Hospital purchased 15 acres along U.S. 56 Highway, and the new
facility is expected to consume 10 of those acres.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellinwood Hospital eyes new construction, future of old campus uncertain

WYANDOTTE COUNTY — Two people were killed in an accident at 4 p.m. Monday on I-635.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Ford Ranger was southbound on I-635 approaching I-70. The driver — Nicholas Michael Munoz, 35, Plant City, Fla. — reportedly was driving aggressively and the vehicle left the roadway to the right.&nbsp;

The pickup continued into the ditch, entered the gap between southbound I-635 and I-70s eastbound ramps, went airborne and landed on its top on Kaw Drive.&nbsp;

Munoz and a passenger — Joshua Daniel Foster, 39, Spring Hill — were killed in the accident, the KHP reported. Both were properly restrained.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY — Two people were killed in an accident at 4 p.m. Monday on I-635.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Ford Ranger was southbound on I-635 approaching I-70. The driver — Nicholas Michael Munoz, 35, Plant City, Fla. — reportedly was driving aggressively and the vehicle left the roadway to the right.&nbsp;The pickup continued into the ditch, entered the gap between southbound I-635 and I-70s eastbound ramps, went airborne and landed on its top on Kaw Drive.&nbsp;Munoz and a passenger — Joshua Daniel Foster, 39, Spring Hill — were killed in the accident, the KHP reported. Both were properly restrained.