SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Law enforcement officials are hoping a $15,000 reward will lead to a crack in the 1992 slaying of a Yankton teenager. 

Yankton police Cmdr. Todd Brandt says he is hoping “someone who knows something is ready to do the right thing.” 

Nineteen-year-old Tammy Haas disappeared after attending Yankton’s homecoming and then going to a party on a farm just across the Nebraska border. 

Her case is among South Dakota’s most notorious unsolved mysteries.

 Haas’ body was found by a golfer in Cedar County, Nebraska at the bottom of a ravine.

 In 1996, Haas’ boyfriend Eric Stukel was tried and acquitted of manslaughter in her death.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Law enforcement officials are hoping a $15,000 reward will lead to a crack in the 1992 slaying of a Yankton teenager. Yankton police Cmdr. Todd Brandt says he is hoping “someone who knows something is ready to do the right thing.” Nineteen-year-old Tammy Haas disappeared after attending Yankton’s homecoming and then going to a party on a farm just across the Nebraska border. Her case is among South Dakota’s most notorious unsolved mysteries. Haas’ body was found by a golfer in Cedar County, Nebraska at the bottom of a ravine. In 1996, Haas’ boyfriend Eric Stukel was tried and acquitted of manslaughter in her death.

Reward of $15,000 offered in 1992 slaying of Yankton teen

WAVERLY, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say a 13-year-old girl was robbed at gunpoint of Air Jordan shoes after meeting a man to sell them at a park in Waverly, Nebraska. 

Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner said deputies were called to Jaycee Park at 5:15 p.m. Monday. 

The Lincoln Journal-Star reports the girl told deputies two men pulled up during the sale and one of them  pulled out a handgun and ordered her to get out of her vehicle. 

She got out and ran off, without getting money for the shoes. 

Authorities arrested one man early Tuesday on suspicion of robbery, terroristic threats and use of a weapon to commit a felony. 

The sheriff says are looking for another man. Deputies recovered the shoes.

WAVERLY, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say a 13-year-old girl was robbed at gunpoint of Air Jordan shoes after meeting a man to sell them at a park in Waverly, Nebraska. Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner said deputies were called to Jaycee Park at 5:15 p.m. Monday. The Lincoln Journal-Star reports the girl told deputies two men pulled up during the sale and one of them pulled out a handgun and ordered her to get out of her vehicle. She got out and ran off, without getting money for the shoes. Authorities arrested one man early Tuesday on suspicion of robbery, terroristic threats and use of a weapon to commit a felony. The sheriff says are looking for another man. Deputies recovered the shoes.

Sheriff: 13-year-old robbed at gunpoint of Air Jordan shoes

McDonald’s will mandate worker training to combat harassment, discrimination and violence in its restaurants worldwide starting next year. 

McDonald's has 2 million workers at 39,000 restaurants worldwide. The change is part of a larger reckoning over sexual harassment at McDonald’s. 

At least 50 workers have filed charges against the company over the last five years, alleging physical and verbal harassment and, in some cases, retaliation when they complained. 

 McDonald’s President and CEO Chris Kempczinski says the company needs to set clearer expectations and make sure its workers feel safe and respected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612203434977.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DEE-ANN DURBIN-Associated PressMcDonald’s will mandate worker training to combat harassment, discrimination and violence in its restaurants worldwide starting next year. McDonald's has 2 million workers at 39,000 restaurants worldwide. The change is part of a larger reckoning over sexual harassment at McDonald’s. At least 50 workers have filed charges against the company over the last five years, alleging physical and verbal harassment and, in some cases, retaliation when they complained. McDonald’s President and CEO Chris Kempczinski says the company needs to set clearer expectations and make sure its workers feel safe and respected.

McDonald's to mandate anti-harassment training worldwide

WASHINGTON, DC –The U.S. Department of Labor’s <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta">Employment and Training Administration</a> today announced the issuance of an Unemployment Insurance Program Letter that provides <a href="https://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?docn=9141">new guidance to states on identity verification for unemployment insurance claims</a>.

The guidance follows unprecedented increases
 in UI claims amid the pandemic and related surges in fraudulent filings
 in states’ systems by sophisticated criminal rings using stolen or 
“synthetic” identities – false identities composed of real and fake 
information. It provides states with guidance about adjudication 
standards to apply when determining UI eligibility in cases where an 
individual’s identity appears questionable. 

This guidance will help states find and stop payments on 
claims based on stolen or fake identities and help unemployed workers 
who have been falsely flagged as possibly fraudulent. The guidance also 
explains what states can do to protect those victims who may have had 
their identities previously stolen and then used by criminals to apply 
for unemployment insurance benefits. 

“Criminals using false and stolen identities to 
file for benefits cause widespread problems – both for the people who 
unknowingly had claims filed in their name and for legitimately 
unemployed Americans – is a growing problem for many state unemployment 
insurance programs,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for 
Employment and Training Suzi LeVine. “The U.S. Department of Labor 
issued this guidance to help states fight this problem in their 
unemployment insurance programs and make sure American workers receive 
the benefits to which they are rightly entitled.” 

In addition to its guidance to states to prevent UI fraud, the department recently launched <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft">a website to assist people who are victims of UI identity theft</a>. The website enables individuals to report ID theft and to find helpful information if their identities have been stolen.

The unemployment insurance program is a 
federal-state partnership, with states responsible for accepting, 
processing, and paying claims. <a href="https://www.careeronestop.org/localhelp/unemploymentbenefits/unemployment-benefits.aspx">Please direct all eligibility questions to state employment agencies.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615920467817.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>U.S. Department of LaborWASHINGTON, DC –The U.S. Department of Labor’s <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta">Employment and Training Administration</a> today announced the issuance of an Unemployment Insurance Program Letter that provides <a href="https://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?docn=9141">new guidance to states on identity verification for unemployment insurance claims</a>. The guidance follows unprecedented increases
 in UI claims amid the pandemic and related surges in fraudulent filings
 in states’ systems by sophisticated criminal rings using stolen or 
“synthetic” identities – false identities composed of real and fake 
information. It provides states with guidance about adjudication 
standards to apply when determining UI eligibility in cases where an 
individual’s identity appears questionable. This guidance will help states find and stop payments on 
claims based on stolen or fake identities and help unemployed workers 
who have been falsely flagged as possibly fraudulent. The guidance also 
explains what states can do to protect those victims who may have had 
their identities previously stolen and then used by criminals to apply 
for unemployment insurance benefits. “Criminals using false and stolen identities to 
file for benefits cause widespread problems – both for the people who 
unknowingly had claims filed in their name and for legitimately 
unemployed Americans – is a growing problem for many state unemployment 
insurance programs,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for 
Employment and Training Suzi LeVine. “The U.S. Department of Labor 
issued this guidance to help states fight this problem in their 
unemployment insurance programs and make sure American workers receive 
the benefits to which they are rightly entitled.” In addition to its guidance to states to prevent UI fraud, the department recently launched <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/UIIDtheft">a website to assist people who are victims of UI identity theft</a>. The website enables individuals to report ID theft and to find helpful information if their identities have been stolen.The unemployment insurance program is a 
federal-state partnership, with states responsible for accepting, 
processing, and paying claims. <a href="https://www.careeronestop.org/localhelp/unemploymentbenefits/unemployment-benefits.aspx">Please direct all eligibility questions to state employment agencies.</a>

Labor Dept. guidance addresses steep climb in unemployment fraud

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service today urged low- and 
moderate-income individuals and families, especially those who don't 
normally file a tax return, to use IRS Free File to prepare their own 
federal tax return, e-file it and get a refund – all for free.

This year's federal tax filing deadline for individuals has been postponed to May 17 from April 15.

Free File offers free access to brand-name tax software to anyone who
 makes $72,000 or less. Already this year, more than 2.96 million 
individuals and couples have used this online service to file returns 
and get their share of these valuable benefits.

Available only at IRS.gov, Free File offers people experiencing 
homelessness, students who are now on their own, low-and moderate-income
 families and others a fast and easy way to access these benefits. All 
anyone needs to reach Free File is access to a computer or similar 
device. No computer? No problem. IRS Free File products support mobile 
phone access too.

Never has Free File been as important as it is right now. The IRS 
delivered two rounds of Economic Impact Payments to eligible people. The
 first payment was up to $1,200 per person and $500 per qualifying 
child. The second payment was up to $600 per eligible person and $600 
per qualifying child.

People who did not receive the full amount of the first or second 
payments can claim the additional amount they are due as the Recovery 
Rebate Credit when they file their 2020 tax return.

And that's where Free File comes in. It's a free way to claim the 
full amount of tax benefits, including the Recovery Rebate Credit, and 
ensure that eligible people get their refund. See the special section on
 IRS.gov - <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit-topic-a-claiming-the-recovery-rebate-credit-if-you-arent-required-to-file-a-tax-return">Claiming the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit if you aren't required to file a tax return</a>
 – for more information. Look for a Free File product with "no minimum 
income" and file electronically and choose direct deposit.

Free File is also a great way to take advantage of two other tax 
benefits that help workers and families --the Earned Income Tax Credit 
(EITC) and the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). Under a special 
COVID-related rule, people who were laid off during part or all of 2020 
will often still qualify for these benefits. That's because if they 
worked during 2019, they can choose to use their 2019 earned income to 
figure these credits, as long as it was higher than it was in 2020.

Through Free File, leading tax software providers make their online 
products available for free as part of a 19-year partnership with the 
IRS. There are nine products in English and one in Spanish. Visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS.gov/freefile</a> for details. In addition, <a href="https://www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal/tax-resource-center/miltax-military-tax-services">MilTax</a>, available free through the Department of Defense, offers a similar online tax-preparation service to members of the military.

Because Free File returns are filed electronically, the service 
offers everyone a great way to get their money quickly. This is 
especially true for anyone who chooses to have their refund deposited 
directly into a savings or checking account.

The IRS urges everyone to consider taking advantage of the speed and convenience of Free File. This includes:

Check out the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/about-irs/free-file-can-help-people-who-have-no-filing-requirement-find-overlooked-tax-credits">A Closer Look column</a> for more information on how Free File can help people get all available tax benefits.

For those who are not comfortable doing their own return, IRS-trained
 community volunteers offer tax help at more than 11,000 tax help sites,
 nationwide. To find the nearest site, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-tax-volunteers">IRS.gov/volunteers</a>, or call <a href="tel:800-906-9887">800-906-9887</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service today urged low- and 
moderate-income individuals and families, especially those who don't 
normally file a tax return, to use IRS Free File to prepare their own 
federal tax return, e-file it and get a refund – all for free.This year's federal tax filing deadline for individuals has been postponed to May 17 from April 15.Free File offers free access to brand-name tax software to anyone who
 makes $72,000 or less. Already this year, more than 2.96 million 
individuals and couples have used this online service to file returns 
and get their share of these valuable benefits.Available only at IRS.gov, Free File offers people experiencing 
homelessness, students who are now on their own, low-and moderate-income
 families and others a fast and easy way to access these benefits. All 
anyone needs to reach Free File is access to a computer or similar 
device. No computer? No problem. IRS Free File products support mobile 
phone access too.Never has Free File been as important as it is right now. The IRS 
delivered two rounds of Economic Impact Payments to eligible people. The
 first payment was up to $1,200 per person and $500 per qualifying 
child. The second payment was up to $600 per eligible person and $600 
per qualifying child.People who did not receive the full amount of the first or second 
payments can claim the additional amount they are due as the Recovery 
Rebate Credit when they file their 2020 tax return.And that's where Free File comes in. It's a free way to claim the 
full amount of tax benefits, including the Recovery Rebate Credit, and 
ensure that eligible people get their refund. See the special section on
 IRS.gov - <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit-topic-a-claiming-the-recovery-rebate-credit-if-you-arent-required-to-file-a-tax-return">Claiming the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit if you aren't required to file a tax return</a>
 – for more information. Look for a Free File product with "no minimum 
income" and file electronically and choose direct deposit.Free File is also a great way to take advantage of two other tax 
benefits that help workers and families --the Earned Income Tax Credit 
(EITC) and the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). Under a special 
COVID-related rule, people who were laid off during part or all of 2020 
will often still qualify for these benefits. That's because if they 
worked during 2019, they can choose to use their 2019 earned income to 
figure these credits, as long as it was higher than it was in 2020.Through Free File, leading tax software providers make their online 
products available for free as part of a 19-year partnership with the 
IRS. There are nine products in English and one in Spanish. Visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS.gov/freefile</a> for details. In addition, <a href="https://www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal/tax-resource-center/miltax-military-tax-services">MilTax</a>, available free through the Department of Defense, offers a similar online tax-preparation service to members of the military.Because Free File returns are filed electronically, the service 
offers everyone a great way to get their money quickly. This is 
especially true for anyone who chooses to have their refund deposited 
directly into a savings or checking account.The IRS urges everyone to consider taking advantage of the speed and convenience of Free File. This includes:<ul>
 <li>People experiencing homelessness. As long as they are not 
someone's dependent, chances are they still qualify for the Recovery 
Rebate Credit even if they have little or no income. They can still use 
Free File even if their only access to the Internet is through a 
smartphone. Look for a Free File product with "no minimum income."</li><li>Individuals who were claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax 
return in 2018 or 2019, but who cannot be claimed as a dependent on 
someone else's return in 2020, may now be eligible to claim a 2020 
Recovery Rebate Credit and must file a 2020 tax return.</li><li>One spouse with an ITIN: Under a new law enacted in December 2020, a
 married couple filing a joint return now may be eligible for a partial 
credit when only one spouse has a Social Security number valid for 
employment. If a couple did not receive one or both Economic Impact 
Payments because one of them did not have a Social Security number valid
 for employment, they may be eligible to claim a 2020 Recovery Rebate 
Credit and must file a 2020 tax return. There is an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit-topic-b-eligibility">exception if one spouse is a member of the U.S. Armed Forces</a>.</li><li>Qualifying child: Families who had a baby or adopted a child during
 2020 did not receive a first or second Economic Impact Payment for that
 qualifying child. They may be eligible to claim a 2020 Recovery Rebate 
Credit and must file a 2020 tax return.</li><li>Low- and moderate-income workers and working families who don't 
normally file a return: Historically, many of these families miss out on
 the EITC and ACTC because they don't file.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Check out the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/about-irs/free-file-can-help-people-who-have-no-filing-requirement-find-overlooked-tax-credits">A Closer Look column</a> for more information on how Free File can help people get all available tax benefits.For those who are not comfortable doing their own return, IRS-trained
 community volunteers offer tax help at more than 11,000 tax help sites,
 nationwide. To find the nearest site, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-tax-volunteers">IRS.gov/volunteers</a>, or call <a href="tel:800-906-9887">800-906-9887</a>.

IRS: No filing requirement? Free File finds overlooked tax credits, refunds

TOPEKA – A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Emerging Variant known as the Brazilian or P.1 variant has been identified in an individual in Sedgwick County. 

A case investigation is being conducted to determine how the person became infected with this particular variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, as well as, if others may have been exposed. No further details will be released concerning the patient, including demographics.

The variant was determined through the whole genome sequencing conducted through the laboratories at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).

The P.1 variant was originally identified in four travelers from Brazil, who were tested during routine screening at Haneda airport outside Tokyo, Japan. 

This variant was detected in the U.S. at the end of January 2021 and has been&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi90cmFuc21pc3Npb24vdmFyaWFudC1jYXNlcy5odG1sP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.-0O-9-5IJTolc4wspUsudU4lji1mIZypKY8N4R-85iQ/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">found in 31 states and territories</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. At this point, there is still much to learn about the transmission characteristics and potential severity of the P.1 variant. Although this strain can reduce the effectiveness of some vaccines, vaccines still provide strong protection against severe illness and death.

“We continue to encourage people to take the appropriate precautions. This includes wearing a mask that fits snuggly around the nose and face and has multiple layers of fabric or layering thinner masks with an additional cloth face mask to improve the fit,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Kansans should also follow isolation and quarantine recommendations, practice physical distancing, good hygiene, staying home if ill and getting the vaccine if you are able to.”

Two other variants of concern have been identified in Kansas, including the UK variant, B.1.1.7, and the South African variant, B.1.351. Variant information in Kansas can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy5rZGhla3MuZ292LzE2MC9DT1ZJRC0xOS1pbi1LYW5zYXM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.a6rqq0vuenhfl1r_L-wUWD8_7IdAZBLRbMDQNKguKPM/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">COVID-19 dashboard</a>&nbsp;under the “Variants” tab.

“In addition to following these healthy behaviors, this finding also shows the importance of getting tested for COVID-19,” Adrienne Byrne, Sedgwick County Health Director, adds.

Testing is available and free for all Kansans. To find a location near you, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmNvcm9uYXZpcnVzLmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvMjgwL0NPVklELTE5LVRlc3Rpbmc_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.s-jifUbFDBcqbLVz4HKQIs6RcJ95wptgslZfZQG_61o/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/280/COVID-19-Testing</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608566572342.png" alt="VIrus variant image courtesy GISAID" />
 <figcaption>VIrus variant image courtesy GISAID</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Emerging Variant known as the Brazilian or P.1 variant has been identified in an individual in Sedgwick County. A case investigation is being conducted to determine how the person became infected with this particular variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, as well as, if others may have been exposed. No further details will be released concerning the patient, including demographics.The variant was determined through the whole genome sequencing conducted through the laboratories at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).The P.1 variant was originally identified in four travelers from Brazil, who were tested during routine screening at Haneda airport outside Tokyo, Japan. This variant was detected in the U.S. at the end of January 2021 and has been&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi90cmFuc21pc3Npb24vdmFyaWFudC1jYXNlcy5odG1sP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.-0O-9-5IJTolc4wspUsudU4lji1mIZypKY8N4R-85iQ/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">found in 31 states and territories</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. At this point, there is still much to learn about the transmission characteristics and potential severity of the P.1 variant. Although this strain can reduce the effectiveness of some vaccines, vaccines still provide strong protection against severe illness and death.“We continue to encourage people to take the appropriate precautions. This includes wearing a mask that fits snuggly around the nose and face and has multiple layers of fabric or layering thinner masks with an additional cloth face mask to improve the fit,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Kansans should also follow isolation and quarantine recommendations, practice physical distancing, good hygiene, staying home if ill and getting the vaccine if you are able to.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618343095662.png" alt="Tuesday April 13, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday April 13, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>Two other variants of concern have been identified in Kansas, including the UK variant, B.1.1.7, and the South African variant, B.1.351. Variant information in Kansas can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy5rZGhla3MuZ292LzE2MC9DT1ZJRC0xOS1pbi1LYW5zYXM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.a6rqq0vuenhfl1r_L-wUWD8_7IdAZBLRbMDQNKguKPM/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">COVID-19 dashboard</a>&nbsp;under the “Variants” tab.“In addition to following these healthy behaviors, this finding also shows the importance of getting tested for COVID-19,” Adrienne Byrne, Sedgwick County Health Director, adds.Testing is available and free for all Kansans. To find a location near you, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmNvcm9uYXZpcnVzLmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvMjgwL0NPVklELTE5LVRlc3Rpbmc_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.s-jifUbFDBcqbLVz4HKQIs6RcJ95wptgslZfZQG_61o/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/280/COVID-19-Testing</a>.

Brazilian COVID variant identified in Kansas

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Sixteen states are backing Alabama’s challenge to a new method the Census Bureau is using in an effort to protect the privacy of people who participated in the head count. 

A judge on Monday allowed the 16 states to file briefs in a support of a lawsuit brought by Alabama last month. 

Alabama's lawsuit seeks to stop the Census Bureau from adding intentional errors to the data. 

Bureau officials say the change is needed to prevent data miners from matching individuals to confidential details. 

The states are Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Utah and West Virginia.

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Sixteen states are backing Alabama’s challenge to a new method the Census Bureau is using in an effort to protect the privacy of people who participated in the head count. A judge on Monday allowed the 16 states to file briefs in a support of a lawsuit brought by Alabama last month. Alabama's lawsuit seeks to stop the Census Bureau from adding intentional errors to the data. Bureau officials say the change is needed to prevent data miners from matching individuals to confidential details. The states are Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Utah and West Virginia.

16 states back Alabama's challenge to Census privacy tool

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — People in Wyoming who turn in aquarium moss balls for disposal will be eligible to win $1,200. 

Wyoming officials have been alarmed by the recent discovery of zebra mussels in moss balls sold in pet stores. 

So far, the small mussels haven’t become established in Wyoming waters but they’ve devastated ecosystems elsewhere in the U.S. The invasive mussels can also clog pipes for water systems. 

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Wyoming Trout Unlimited and others have teamed up for a moss ball raffle. 

People who turn in moss balls at any of 10 locations around Wyoming may enter to win $1,200.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — People in Wyoming who turn in aquarium moss balls for disposal will be eligible to win $1,200. Wyoming officials have been alarmed by the recent discovery of zebra mussels in moss balls sold in pet stores. So far, the small mussels haven’t become established in Wyoming waters but they’ve devastated ecosystems elsewhere in the U.S. The invasive mussels can also clog pipes for water systems. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Wyoming Trout Unlimited and others have teamed up for a moss ball raffle. People who turn in moss balls at any of 10 locations around Wyoming may enter to win $1,200.

$1,200 prize offered in Wyoming for turning in moss balls

GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP) — People in the real estate business say they're seeing more people who want to move to Wyoming from out of state.

 Aaron Cannon and his family began looking last year to move away from Raleigh, North Carolina. Cannon's brother had moved to Gillette and that's where they went, too.

 Cannon tells the Gillette News Record he loves Wyoming's history, politics and people. 

He has experience in the catering business and is opening a burger and chicken restaurant called Ranch and Roost. 

Gillette real estate agent Pat Avery says he was expecting slow business during the coronavirus pandemic but the opposite has happened.

GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP) — People in the real estate business say they're seeing more people who want to move to Wyoming from out of state. Aaron Cannon and his family began looking last year to move away from Raleigh, North Carolina. Cannon's brother had moved to Gillette and that's where they went, too. Cannon tells the Gillette News Record he loves Wyoming's history, politics and people. He has experience in the catering business and is opening a burger and chicken restaurant called Ranch and Roost. Gillette real estate agent Pat Avery says he was expecting slow business during the coronavirus pandemic but the opposite has happened.

Moves to Wyoming pick up during COVID-19 pandemic

KEYSTONE, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem has sent a letter to President Joe Biden asking that he intervene and allow a Fourth of July fireworks display at Mount Rushmore. 

The National Park Service has denied a permit for the fireworks this year, citing concerns about the spread of COVID-19, tribal opposition and the environment. 

Fireworks returned to Mount Rushmore last Fourth of July after concerns about wildfires cancelled similar displays since 2009. 

Noem’s request comes after the national memorial was recently closed for several days because of a large wildfire at its doorstep.

KEYSTONE, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem has sent a letter to President Joe Biden asking that he intervene and allow a Fourth of July fireworks display at Mount Rushmore. The National Park Service has denied a permit for the fireworks this year, citing concerns about the spread of COVID-19, tribal opposition and the environment. Fireworks returned to Mount Rushmore last Fourth of July after concerns about wildfires cancelled similar displays since 2009. Noem’s request comes after the national memorial was recently closed for several days because of a large wildfire at its doorstep.

Noem asks Biden to allow fireworks at Mount Rushmore in July

WASHINGTON (AP) — The casket of slain U.S. Capitol Police Officer William “Billy” Evans arrived at the Capitol on Tuesday as President Joe Biden and congressional leaders prepared to pay their respects to an officer struck by a car and killed while he manned a barricade near the Senate side of the building.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?510593-1/memorial-service-capitol-police-officer-billy-evans&amp;live">CLICK here</a> to watch a replay of the service

Evans’ casket was placed in the Capitol Rotunda for the second such memorial ceremony this year for a force that has edged close to crisis in the wake of the Jan. 6 insurrection.

Members of the National Guard lined the street and saluted as the hearse carrying Evans’ flag-draped casket entered the Capitol complex. His former colleagues gathered on the Capitol’s East Plaza Front while church bells rang in the distance. His family, including his two children, gathered to watch as his casket was carried up the Capitol steps.

Evans, 41, and another officer were struck on April 2 by a car driven by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-siege-politics-451c5c5154045d404d0db76270f78aac">Noah Green</a>, 25, who came out of the car with a knife and was shot to death by police. Investigators believe Green had been delusional and increasingly having suicidal thoughts.

Evans’ death came just three months after a violent mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters blew past security barricades and attacked the Capitol, injuring dozens of Capitol Police officers. Officer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brian-sicknick-honored-at-capitol-d8804f70438d1a731a7b5b0f96061d0a">Brian Sicknick</a>&nbsp;died after engaging with the rioters, though officials do not yet know exactly what caused his death.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-tanios-julian-khater-charged-capitol-riot-f28484b486155d911cab41c90a8bed8d">Two men have been arrested</a>&nbsp;and charged with assaulting him with bear spray.

Sicknick and Evans are two of only six Capitol Police officers who have been killed in the line of duty in the force’s nearly 200-year history, according to the department. Another officer, Howard Liebengood, died by suicide in the days after Jan. 6.

The three deaths in as many months have taken an unbearable toll on the force, which has been overworked and understaffed as leaders try to figure out how to move forward after the mistakes of Jan. 6. The Capitol Police were massively unprepared for the hundreds of violent Trump supporters who pushed past them that day, injuring them as they broke into the building. In the weeks and months since, top leaders have resigned and many have considered leaving the department. Officials have brought in trauma therapists, and lawmakers are considering what more they can do.

“This is a group of men and women who’ve been through an overwhelming amount of trauma over the last few months,” said Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, who heads a spending committee that oversees the Capitol Police and has been investigating the response to the insurrection. “The loss of Officer Evans is yet another stark reminder of what our brothers and sisters in uniform risk every day to protect us. The honor of lying in state under the Capitol dome is befitting of this American hero.”

Lawmakers, family and members of the police force will be invited to pay their respects to Evans after the ceremony with Biden and congressional leaders. He will be only the sixth person to lie in honor in the Capitol Rotunda, a designation for those who are not elected officials, judges or military leaders.

Evans, who had two young children, was an 18-year veteran of the force. He was remembered by colleagues and friends as a man with a sense of humor who loved baseball and golf.

Members of his family said in a statement through the police earlier this month that most important in his life were his two children, Logan and Abigail.

“His most cherished moments were those spent with them — building with Lego, having lightsaber duels, playing board games, doing arts and crafts, and recently finishing the Harry Potter series,” the family said. “He was always so eager to show how proud he was of everything they did.”

The family said Evans was proud of his job and his friendship with colleagues near the “North Barricade” of the Capitol complex was one of the best parts of it.

“We hold them in our hearts, as we know they acutely share our grief,” they said.

Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., said on the Senate floor Monday evening that Evans was a “familiar and friendly face” at that barricade where he died, a gate that is frequently used by senators and staff. Durbin said the three deaths this year are an “incredible hardship” for the department and Congress owes them a debt that can never be repaid.

“Every day it is incumbent on those of us who work in this building to remember this officer, and to thank him, and the men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police who have given so much to keep us safe,” Durbin said.

Rep. Jennifer Wexton, D-Va., who represented Liebengood and has gotten to know his family since his suicide, has worked to find more mental health resources for the Capitol Police as they have worked extra shifts and dealt with the trauma of losing their colleagues. She said the current pace for the force is unsustainable.

“We’ve lost officers to this level of stress and as we approach the second laying in honor of a Capitol police officer this year, I fear an exodus is approaching if we don’t prioritize the mental and physical health of our Capitol police officers,” Wexton said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618327771250.png" alt="Evans’ casket was placed in the Capitol Rotunda for the second such memorial ceremony this year -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Evans’ casket was placed in the Capitol Rotunda for the second such memorial ceremony this year -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The casket of slain U.S. Capitol Police Officer William “Billy” Evans arrived at the Capitol on Tuesday as President Joe Biden and congressional leaders prepared to pay their respects to an officer struck by a car and killed while he manned a barricade near the Senate side of the building.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?510593-1/memorial-service-capitol-police-officer-billy-evans&amp;live">CLICK here</a> to watch a replay of the serviceEvans’ casket was placed in the Capitol Rotunda for the second such memorial ceremony this year for a force that has edged close to crisis in the wake of the Jan. 6 insurrection.Members of the National Guard lined the street and saluted as the hearse carrying Evans’ flag-draped casket entered the Capitol complex. His former colleagues gathered on the Capitol’s East Plaza Front while church bells rang in the distance. His family, including his two children, gathered to watch as his casket was carried up the Capitol steps.Evans, 41, and another officer were struck on April 2 by a car driven by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-siege-politics-451c5c5154045d404d0db76270f78aac">Noah Green</a>, 25, who came out of the car with a knife and was shot to death by police. Investigators believe Green had been delusional and increasingly having suicidal thoughts.Evans’ death came just three months after a violent mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters blew past security barricades and attacked the Capitol, injuring dozens of Capitol Police officers. Officer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brian-sicknick-honored-at-capitol-d8804f70438d1a731a7b5b0f96061d0a">Brian Sicknick</a>&nbsp;died after engaging with the rioters, though officials do not yet know exactly what caused his death.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-tanios-julian-khater-charged-capitol-riot-f28484b486155d911cab41c90a8bed8d">Two men have been arrested</a>&nbsp;and charged with assaulting him with bear spray.Sicknick and Evans are two of only six Capitol Police officers who have been killed in the line of duty in the force’s nearly 200-year history, according to the department. Another officer, Howard Liebengood, died by suicide in the days after Jan. 6.The three deaths in as many months have taken an unbearable toll on the force, which has been overworked and understaffed as leaders try to figure out how to move forward after the mistakes of Jan. 6. The Capitol Police were massively unprepared for the hundreds of violent Trump supporters who pushed past them that day, injuring them as they broke into the building. In the weeks and months since, top leaders have resigned and many have considered leaving the department. Officials have brought in trauma therapists, and lawmakers are considering what more they can do.“This is a group of men and women who’ve been through an overwhelming amount of trauma over the last few months,” said Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, who heads a spending committee that oversees the Capitol Police and has been investigating the response to the insurrection. “The loss of Officer Evans is yet another stark reminder of what our brothers and sisters in uniform risk every day to protect us. The honor of lying in state under the Capitol dome is befitting of this American hero.”Lawmakers, family and members of the police force will be invited to pay their respects to Evans after the ceremony with Biden and congressional leaders. He will be only the sixth person to lie in honor in the Capitol Rotunda, a designation for those who are not elected officials, judges or military leaders.Evans, who had two young children, was an 18-year veteran of the force. He was remembered by colleagues and friends as a man with a sense of humor who loved baseball and golf.Members of his family said in a statement through the police earlier this month that most important in his life were his two children, Logan and Abigail.“His most cherished moments were those spent with them — building with Lego, having lightsaber duels, playing board games, doing arts and crafts, and recently finishing the Harry Potter series,” the family said. “He was always so eager to show how proud he was of everything they did.”The family said Evans was proud of his job and his friendship with colleagues near the “North Barricade” of the Capitol complex was one of the best parts of it.“We hold them in our hearts, as we know they acutely share our grief,” they said.Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., said on the Senate floor Monday evening that Evans was a “familiar and friendly face” at that barricade where he died, a gate that is frequently used by senators and staff. Durbin said the three deaths this year are an “incredible hardship” for the department and Congress owes them a debt that can never be repaid.“Every day it is incumbent on those of us who work in this building to remember this officer, and to thank him, and the men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police who have given so much to keep us safe,” Durbin said.Rep. Jennifer Wexton, D-Va., who represented Liebengood and has gotten to know his family since his suicide, has worked to find more mental health resources for the Capitol Police as they have worked extra shifts and dealt with the trauma of losing their colleagues. She said the current pace for the force is unsustainable.“We’ve lost officers to this level of stress and as we approach the second laying in honor of a Capitol police officer this year, I fear an exodus is approaching if we don’t prioritize the mental and physical health of our Capitol police officers,” Wexton said.

Biden, lawmakers pay tribute to slain Capitol Police officer

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. is recommending a “pause” in administration of the single-dose Johnson &amp; Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to investigate reports of potentially dangerous blood clots.

In a joint statement Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration said it was investigating clots in six women in the days after vaccination, in combination with reduced platelet counts. More than 6.8 million doses of the J&amp;J vaccine have been administered in the U.S.

U.S. federal distribution channels, including mass vaccination sites, will pause the use of the J&amp;J shot, and states and other providers are expected to follow.

CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet Wednesday to discuss the cases and the FDA has also launched an investigation of the cases.

“Until that process is complete, we are recommending a pause in the use of this vaccine out of an abundance of caution,” Dr. Anne Schuchat, Principal Deputy Director of the CDC and Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research said in a joint statement.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. is recommending a “pause” in administration of the single-dose Johnson &amp; Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to investigate reports of potentially dangerous blood clots.In a joint statement Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration said it was investigating clots in six women in the days after vaccination, in combination with reduced platelet counts. More than 6.8 million doses of the J&amp;J vaccine have been administered in the U.S.U.S. federal distribution channels, including mass vaccination sites, will pause the use of the J&amp;J shot, and states and other providers are expected to follow.CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet Wednesday to discuss the cases and the FDA has also launched an investigation of the cases.“Until that process is complete, we are recommending a pause in the use of this vaccine out of an abundance of caution,” Dr. Anne Schuchat, Principal Deputy Director of the CDC and Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research said in a joint statement.

US recommends 'pause' of Johnson & Johnson vaccine 

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden wants Congress to know he’s sincere about cutting a deal on infrastructure, but Republican lawmakers have deep-seated doubts about the scope of his proposed package, its tax hikes and Biden’s premise that this is an inflection point for the U.S. as a world power.

Biden met Monday afternoon with a bipartisan group of lawmakers and tried to assure them that the Oval Office gathering was not “window dressing.” One of the core disputes is over what counts as infrastructure in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-coronavirus-pandemic-pittsburgh-jen-psaki-8865ffc8f5ad3142155a5bd3c3a3e6d3">$2.3 trillion proposal</a>.

“I’m prepared to negotiate as to the extent of my infrastructure project, as well as how we pay for it,” Biden said. “It’s going to get down to what we call ‘infrastructure.’”

Republican Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi indicated after the meeting that he was willing to negotiate with Biden and called it a “good discussion.” But a more fundamental disagreement also emerged about whether the United States is losing its status atop the global economy because of its deteriorating infrastructure.

“He says that we’re a declining superpower, the United States is no longer number one,” Wicker said afterward. “I just fundamentally disagree with that.”

The meeting came as the Biden’s team is making a direct argument for lawmakers to put their constituents ahead of their ideologies. The White House released state-by-state breakdowns Monday that show the dire shape of roads, bridges, the power grid and housing affordability, among other issues. An appeal to the broader public is unlikely to resonate much with Republican lawmakers who have already blasted the plan.

Among the Republicans at the meeting were Sen. Deb Fischer of Nebraska and Reps. Garret Graves of Louisiana and Don Young of Alaska. Democrats attending were Sens. Maria Cantwell of Washington and Sen. Alex Padilla of California and Reps. Donald Payne Jr. of New Jersey and David Price of North Carolina.

In the room, “nobody said we didn’t need infrastructure investment,” Cantwell, the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, said in an interview.

The lawmakers said Biden will seek to drive a consensus by having his team revisit with them and others, as soon as Tuesday.

Graves said the president talked about how he was open to discussion and open to negotiation on the size, scope and definition of infrastructure.

“Those are all the exact words that I wanted to hear going into the meeting. And so that was really encouraging,” Graves, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, told The Associated Press. “Is this truly going to be a two-way discussion where we talk about better ways to deliver infrastructure, what the appropriate size and scope are, ways of funding, things like that?”

The figures in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/20613298-biden-infrastructure-plan-state-highlights" target="_blank">state summaries</a>&nbsp;paint a decidedly bleak outlook for the world’s largest economy after years of repairs being deferred and delayed. They suggest that too much infrastructure is unsafe for vehicles at any speed, while highlighting the costs of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/weather">extreme weather events</a>&nbsp;that have become more frequent with climate change as well as dead spots for broadband and a dearth of child care options.

Drawn from an array of private and public data, the state reports show there are 7,300 miles (11,748 kilometers) of highway in Michigan alone that are in poor condition. Damaged streets in North Carolina impose an average yearly cost of $500 on motorists. Iowa has 4,571 bridges in need of repair. There is a roughly 4-in-10 chance that a public transit vehicle in Indiana might be ready for the scrap yard. Pennsylvania’s schools are short $1.4 billion for maintenance and upgrades.

Most states received a letter grade on their infrastructure. West Virginia earned a D. So did Biden’s home state of Delaware. Of the states rated, the highest grade went to Georgia and Utah, which each notched a C-plus. The lowest grade, D-minus, went to the territory of Puerto Rico.

The administration is banking that the data will confirm the everyday experiences of Americans as they bump over potholes, get trapped in traffic jams and wait for buses that almost never correspond to published schedules. There is already a receptive audience to the sales pitch, and the strategy is that public support can overcome any congressional misgivings.

“We don’t have a lot of work to do to persuade the American people that U.S. infrastructure needs major improvement,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-buttigieg-transportation-secretary-infrastructure-bb883b4af7b9c700d0ef2b7c29d7a5b0">Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg</a>&nbsp;said on Fox News Channel’s “Fox News Sunday” ahead of the reports’ release. “The American people already know it.”

Republican lawmakers have been quick to reject the infrastructure proposal from Biden. They say just a fraction of the spending goes to traditional infrastructure, as $400 billion would expand Medicaid support for caregivers and substantial portions would fund electric vehicle charging stations and address the racial injustice of highways that were built in ways that destroyed Black neighborhoods.

The reports give some data to back up their argument that more money should be spent on roads and bridges. Biden’s plan would modernize 20,000 miles (32,187 kilometers) worth of roadways, but California by itself has 14,220 miles (22,885 kilometers) of highway in poor condition.

Republican lawmakers also object to funding the package by increasing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/corporate-taxes">the corporate tax rate</a>&nbsp;from 21% to 28% and increasing the global minimum tax, among other tax changes including stepped-up IRS enforcement being proposed by the Biden administration.

“This plan would impose the biggest tax hikes in a generation when workers need an economic recovery. It would gut right-to-work protections for blue-collar workers,” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a Monday floor speech. “It would throw hundreds of billions at the far-left’s ‘green’ fads.”

Yet the state-by-state reports make clear that many of the people in Mississippi that Wicker represents could benefit from the package, an aspect of the Biden effort to engender the backing of voters across party lines.

Mississippi needs $4.8 billion for drinking water and $289 million for schools. Nearly a quarter of households lack an internet subscription, and a similar percentage lives in areas without broadband. Mississippians who use public transportation have to devote an extra 87.7% of their time to commuting.

Mississippi’s infrastructure received a grade of D-plus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618264660542.png" alt="President Biden at meeting&nbsp; on&nbsp; Monday with a bipartisan group of Members of Congress to discuss American Jobs Plan. -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Biden at meeting&nbsp; on&nbsp; Monday with a bipartisan group of Members of Congress to discuss American Jobs Plan. -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden wants Congress to know he’s sincere about cutting a deal on infrastructure, but Republican lawmakers have deep-seated doubts about the scope of his proposed package, its tax hikes and Biden’s premise that this is an inflection point for the U.S. as a world power.Biden met Monday afternoon with a bipartisan group of lawmakers and tried to assure them that the Oval Office gathering was not “window dressing.” One of the core disputes is over what counts as infrastructure in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-coronavirus-pandemic-pittsburgh-jen-psaki-8865ffc8f5ad3142155a5bd3c3a3e6d3">$2.3 trillion proposal</a>.“I’m prepared to negotiate as to the extent of my infrastructure project, as well as how we pay for it,” Biden said. “It’s going to get down to what we call ‘infrastructure.’”Republican Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi indicated after the meeting that he was willing to negotiate with Biden and called it a “good discussion.” But a more fundamental disagreement also emerged about whether the United States is losing its status atop the global economy because of its deteriorating infrastructure.“He says that we’re a declining superpower, the United States is no longer number one,” Wicker said afterward. “I just fundamentally disagree with that.”The meeting came as the Biden’s team is making a direct argument for lawmakers to put their constituents ahead of their ideologies. The White House released state-by-state breakdowns Monday that show the dire shape of roads, bridges, the power grid and housing affordability, among other issues. An appeal to the broader public is unlikely to resonate much with Republican lawmakers who have already blasted the plan.Among the Republicans at the meeting were Sen. Deb Fischer of Nebraska and Reps. Garret Graves of Louisiana and Don Young of Alaska. Democrats attending were Sens. Maria Cantwell of Washington and Sen. Alex Padilla of California and Reps. Donald Payne Jr. of New Jersey and David Price of North Carolina.In the room, “nobody said we didn’t need infrastructure investment,” Cantwell, the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, said in an interview.The lawmakers said Biden will seek to drive a consensus by having his team revisit with them and others, as soon as Tuesday.Graves said the president talked about how he was open to discussion and open to negotiation on the size, scope and definition of infrastructure.“Those are all the exact words that I wanted to hear going into the meeting. And so that was really encouraging,” Graves, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, told The Associated Press. “Is this truly going to be a two-way discussion where we talk about better ways to deliver infrastructure, what the appropriate size and scope are, ways of funding, things like that?”The figures in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/20613298-biden-infrastructure-plan-state-highlights" target="_blank">state summaries</a>&nbsp;paint a decidedly bleak outlook for the world’s largest economy after years of repairs being deferred and delayed. They suggest that too much infrastructure is unsafe for vehicles at any speed, while highlighting the costs of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/weather">extreme weather events</a>&nbsp;that have become more frequent with climate change as well as dead spots for broadband and a dearth of child care options.Drawn from an array of private and public data, the state reports show there are 7,300 miles (11,748 kilometers) of highway in Michigan alone that are in poor condition. Damaged streets in North Carolina impose an average yearly cost of $500 on motorists. Iowa has 4,571 bridges in need of repair. There is a roughly 4-in-10 chance that a public transit vehicle in Indiana might be ready for the scrap yard. Pennsylvania’s schools are short $1.4 billion for maintenance and upgrades.Most states received a letter grade on their infrastructure. West Virginia earned a D. So did Biden’s home state of Delaware. Of the states rated, the highest grade went to Georgia and Utah, which each notched a C-plus. The lowest grade, D-minus, went to the territory of Puerto Rico.The administration is banking that the data will confirm the everyday experiences of Americans as they bump over potholes, get trapped in traffic jams and wait for buses that almost never correspond to published schedules. There is already a receptive audience to the sales pitch, and the strategy is that public support can overcome any congressional misgivings.“We don’t have a lot of work to do to persuade the American people that U.S. infrastructure needs major improvement,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-buttigieg-transportation-secretary-infrastructure-bb883b4af7b9c700d0ef2b7c29d7a5b0">Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg</a>&nbsp;said on Fox News Channel’s “Fox News Sunday” ahead of the reports’ release. “The American people already know it.”Republican lawmakers have been quick to reject the infrastructure proposal from Biden. They say just a fraction of the spending goes to traditional infrastructure, as $400 billion would expand Medicaid support for caregivers and substantial portions would fund electric vehicle charging stations and address the racial injustice of highways that were built in ways that destroyed Black neighborhoods.The reports give some data to back up their argument that more money should be spent on roads and bridges. Biden’s plan would modernize 20,000 miles (32,187 kilometers) worth of roadways, but California by itself has 14,220 miles (22,885 kilometers) of highway in poor condition.Republican lawmakers also object to funding the package by increasing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/corporate-taxes">the corporate tax rate</a>&nbsp;from 21% to 28% and increasing the global minimum tax, among other tax changes including stepped-up IRS enforcement being proposed by the Biden administration.“This plan would impose the biggest tax hikes in a generation when workers need an economic recovery. It would gut right-to-work protections for blue-collar workers,” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a Monday floor speech. “It would throw hundreds of billions at the far-left’s ‘green’ fads.”Yet the state-by-state reports make clear that many of the people in Mississippi that Wicker represents could benefit from the package, an aspect of the Biden effort to engender the backing of voters across party lines.Mississippi needs $4.8 billion for drinking water and $289 million for schools. Nearly a quarter of households lack an internet subscription, and a similar percentage lives in areas without broadband. Mississippians who use public transportation have to devote an extra 87.7% of their time to commuting.Mississippi’s infrastructure received a grade of D-plus.

Lawmakers debate 'infrastructure' in Biden's $2.3T plan

INDIANAPOLIS —The NCAA Board of Governors on Monday issued a statement firmly and unequivocally in support of the opportunity for transgender student-athletes to compete in college sports, according to a statement on the organization's web site.

This commitment is grounded in our values of inclusion and fair competition, according to the statement.

The NCAA has a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.org/sites/default/files/Transgender_Handbook_2011_Final.pdf">long-standing policy</a>&nbsp;that provides a more inclusive path for transgender participation in college sports. Our approach — which requires testosterone suppression treatment for transgender women to compete in women’s sports — embraces the evolving science on this issue and is anchored in participation policies of both the International Olympic Committee and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Inclusion and fairness can coexist for all student-athletes, including transgender athletes, at all levels of sport. Our clear expectation as the Association’s top governing body is that all student-athletes will be treated with dignity and respect. We are committed to ensuring that NCAA championships are open for all who earn the right to compete in them.

When determining where championships are held, NCAA policy directs that only locations where hosts can commit to providing an environment that is safe, healthy and free of discrimination should be selected. 

We will continue to closely monitor these situations to determine whether NCAA championships can be conducted in ways that are welcoming and respectful of all participants

On Friday, Kansas conservatives pushed a proposed ban on transgender athletes in girl’s and women’s school sports through the Republican-controlled Legislature. Governor Kelly has not indicated whether she will sign the bill.&nbsp;The bill's supporters were eight votes short in the House and one short in the Senate of the two-thirds majorities for overriding a veto.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587379293613.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>INDIANAPOLIS —The NCAA Board of Governors on Monday issued a statement firmly and unequivocally in support of the opportunity for transgender student-athletes to compete in college sports, according to a statement on the organization's web site.This commitment is grounded in our values of inclusion and fair competition, according to the statement.The NCAA has a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.org/sites/default/files/Transgender_Handbook_2011_Final.pdf">long-standing policy</a>&nbsp;that provides a more inclusive path for transgender participation in college sports. Our approach — which requires testosterone suppression treatment for transgender women to compete in women’s sports — embraces the evolving science on this issue and is anchored in participation policies of both the International Olympic Committee and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. Inclusion and fairness can coexist for all student-athletes, including transgender athletes, at all levels of sport. Our clear expectation as the Association’s top governing body is that all student-athletes will be treated with dignity and respect. We are committed to ensuring that NCAA championships are open for all who earn the right to compete in them.When determining where championships are held, NCAA policy directs that only locations where hosts can commit to providing an environment that is safe, healthy and free of discrimination should be selected. We will continue to closely monitor these situations to determine whether NCAA championships can be conducted in ways that are welcoming and respectful of all participantsOn Friday, Kansas conservatives pushed a proposed ban on transgender athletes in girl’s and women’s school sports through the Republican-controlled Legislature. Governor Kelly has not indicated whether she will sign the bill.&nbsp;The bill's supporters were eight votes short in the House and one short in the Senate of the two-thirds majorities for overriding a veto.&nbsp;

NCAA says it unequivocally supports transgender athletes

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) —Authorities say a student at a Tennessee high school fired at officers and was killed by police. Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Director David B. Rausch said at a news conference Monday that police responded to a report of a possible gunman at Austin-East Magnet High School in Knoxville. 

He says the officers found him in a bathroom and ordered him to come out, but he wouldn’t comply. Rausch says that’s when the student reportedly opened fire, and police fired back. The student died at the school, and an officer was shot in the leg and taken into surgery.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Authorities say a confrontation in a Tennessee high school that involved police officers responding to a report of a possible armed man left one person dead and the officer wounded. 

Police say no other person were killed or wounded in Monday afternoon's shooting and that the scene has been secured at at the Austin-East Magnet High School in Knoxville. 

Knoxville Police posted on Facebook that officers responded to reports of a male subject who was possibly armed at the school. They said shots rang out as officers approached the person. The school was the subject of media reports in February after three students were shot to death over a three-week span.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Authorities say multiple people including a police officer have been shot at a high school in the east Tennessee city of Knoxville, and the scene has since been secured. There was no immediate report on the exact number of people shot or the extent of their injuries. 

The Knoxville Police Department tweeted that authorities were on the scene of the shooting Monday at Austin-East Magnet High School. Authorities did not immediately say how many people were shot or disclose the extent of their injuries. 

The online posting said a Knoxville Police Department officer was reported among the victims. Police urged people to avoid the area. Details remained sketchy and news outlets showed numerous police and emergency vehicles outside the school.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Authorities say multiple people including a police officer have been shot at a high school in the east Tennessee city of Knoxville, and the scene has since been secured. 

The Knoxville Police Department tweeted that authorities were on the scene of the shooting Monday at Austin-East Magnet High School. The online posting said a Knoxville Police Department officer was reported among the victims. 

Police urged people to avoid the area. Details remained sketchy and news outlets showed numerous police and emergency vehicles outside the school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618260444077.png" alt="&nbsp;Multiple agencies on the scene of a shooting at Austin-East Magnet High School. Multiple gunshot victims reported, including a Knoxville Police officer-photo courtesy Knoxville Police" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Multiple agencies on the scene of a shooting at Austin-East Magnet High School. Multiple gunshot victims reported, including a Knoxville Police officer-photo courtesy Knoxville Police</figcaption>
 </figure>KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) —Authorities say a student at a Tennessee high school fired at officers and was killed by police. Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Director David B. Rausch said at a news conference Monday that police responded to a report of a possible gunman at Austin-East Magnet High School in Knoxville. He says the officers found him in a bathroom and ordered him to come out, but he wouldn’t comply. Rausch says that’s when the student reportedly opened fire, and police fired back. The student died at the school, and an officer was shot in the leg and taken into surgery.----------KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Authorities say a confrontation in a Tennessee high school that involved police officers responding to a report of a possible armed man left one person dead and the officer wounded. Police say no other person were killed or wounded in Monday afternoon's shooting and that the scene has been secured at at the Austin-East Magnet High School in Knoxville. Knoxville Police posted on Facebook that officers responded to reports of a male subject who was possibly armed at the school. They said shots rang out as officers approached the person. The school was the subject of media reports in February after three students were shot to death over a three-week span.KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Authorities say multiple people including a police officer have been shot at a high school in the east Tennessee city of Knoxville, and the scene has since been secured. There was no immediate report on the exact number of people shot or the extent of their injuries. The Knoxville Police Department tweeted that authorities were on the scene of the shooting Monday at Austin-East Magnet High School. Authorities did not immediately say how many people were shot or disclose the extent of their injuries. The online posting said a Knoxville Police Department officer was reported among the victims. Police urged people to avoid the area. Details remained sketchy and news outlets showed numerous police and emergency vehicles outside the school.---------KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Authorities say multiple people including a police officer have been shot at a high school in the east Tennessee city of Knoxville, and the scene has since been secured. The Knoxville Police Department tweeted that authorities were on the scene of the shooting Monday at Austin-East Magnet High School. The online posting said a Knoxville Police Department officer was reported among the victims. Police urged people to avoid the area. Details remained sketchy and news outlets showed numerous police and emergency vehicles outside the school.

Update: Student fires at officers at Tennessee school, is killed

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) — A 27-year-old Nebraska woman has died after her vehicle struck the back of a tractor in Howard County. 

The Nebraska State Patrol says Ashley M. Hurley of Grand Island was pronounced dead at a local hospital. A juvenile in her vehicle was treated for minor injuries and released from the hospital. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that the Howard County Sheriff’s Office determined that Hurley was northbound on Highway 281 about 30 miles north of Grand Island at about 9:30 a.m. Sunday when the vehicle she was driving hit the rear of a slow-moving tractor. &nbsp;

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) — A 27-year-old Nebraska woman has died after her vehicle struck the back of a tractor in Howard County. The Nebraska State Patrol says Ashley M. Hurley of Grand Island was pronounced dead at a local hospital. A juvenile in her vehicle was treated for minor injuries and released from the hospital. The Omaha World-Herald reports that the Howard County Sheriff’s Office determined that Hurley was northbound on Highway 281 about 30 miles north of Grand Island at about 9:30 a.m. Sunday when the vehicle she was driving hit the rear of a slow-moving tractor. &nbsp;The tractor driver was not injured.

Nebraska woman killed in collision with slow-moving tractor

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden White House is amplifying the push for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-coronavirus-pandemic-pittsburgh-jen-psaki-8865ffc8f5ad3142155a5bd3c3a3e6d3">its $2.3 trillion infrastructure package</a>&nbsp;with the release of state-by-state breakdowns that show the dire shape of roads, bridges, the power grid and housing affordability.

The figures in the state summaries, obtained by The Associated Press, paint a decidedly bleak outlook for the world’s largest economy after years of repairs being deferred and delayed. They suggest that too much infrastructure is unsafe for vehicles at any speed, while highlighting the costs of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/weather">extreme weather events</a>&nbsp;that have become more frequent with climate change as well as dead spots for broadband and a dearth of child care options.

President Joe Biden is scheduled to meet Monday afternoon with Republican and Democratic lawmakers and can use the state summaries to show that his plan would help meet the needs of their constituents.

Drawn from an array of private and public data, the reports show there are 7,300 miles of highway in Michigan alone that are in poor condition. Damaged streets in North Carolina impose an average yearly cost of $500 on motorists. Iowa has 4,571 bridges in need of repair. There is a roughly 4-in-10 chance that a public transit vehicle in Indiana might be ready for the scrap yard. Pennsylvania’s schools are short $1.4 billion for maintenance and upgrades.

The reports give some data to back up their argument that more money should be spent on roads and bridges. Biden’s plan would modernize 20,000 miles worth of roadways, but California by itself has 14,220 miles of highway in poor condition.

“This is a massive social welfare spending program combined with a massive tax increase on small-business job creators,” Sen Roger Wicker, R-Miss., said on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday. “I can’t think of a worse thing to do.”

Yet the state-by-state reports make clear that many of the people Wicker represents could benefit from the package, an aspect of the Biden effort to engender the backing of voters across party lines.

Wicker was among four Republicans on the White House guest list for Biden’s Monday meeting, along with Sen. Deb Fischer of Nebraska and Reps. Garret Graves of Louisiana and Don Young of Alaska. Democrats on the list were Sens. Maria Cantwell of Washington and Alex Padilla of California and Reps. Donald Payne Jr. of New Jersey and David Price of North Carolina.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden White House is amplifying the push for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-coronavirus-pandemic-pittsburgh-jen-psaki-8865ffc8f5ad3142155a5bd3c3a3e6d3">its $2.3 trillion infrastructure package</a>&nbsp;with the release of state-by-state breakdowns that show the dire shape of roads, bridges, the power grid and housing affordability.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618251319025.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The figures in the state summaries, obtained by The Associated Press, paint a decidedly bleak outlook for the world’s largest economy after years of repairs being deferred and delayed. They suggest that too much infrastructure is unsafe for vehicles at any speed, while highlighting the costs of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/weather">extreme weather events</a>&nbsp;that have become more frequent with climate change as well as dead spots for broadband and a dearth of child care options.President Joe Biden is scheduled to meet Monday afternoon with Republican and Democratic lawmakers and can use the state summaries to show that his plan would help meet the needs of their constituents.Drawn from an array of private and public data, the reports show there are 7,300 miles of highway in Michigan alone that are in poor condition. Damaged streets in North Carolina impose an average yearly cost of $500 on motorists. Iowa has 4,571 bridges in need of repair. There is a roughly 4-in-10 chance that a public transit vehicle in Indiana might be ready for the scrap yard. Pennsylvania’s schools are short $1.4 billion for maintenance and upgrades.The administration is banking that the data will confirm the everyday experiences of Americans as they bump over potholes, get trapped in traffic jams and wait for buses that almost never correspond to published schedules. There is already a receptive audience to the sales pitch, and the strategy is that public support can overcome any congressional misgivings.“We don’t have a lot of work to do to persuade the American people that U.S. infrastructure needs major improvement,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-buttigieg-transportation-secretary-infrastructure-bb883b4af7b9c700d0ef2b7c29d7a5b0">Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg</a>&nbsp;said on Fox News Channel’s “Fox News Sunday” ahead of the reports’ release. “The American people already know it.”Republican lawmakers have been quick to reject the infrastructure proposal from Biden. They say just a fraction of the spending goes to traditional infrastructure, as $400 billion would expand Medicaid support for caregivers and substantial portions would fund electric vehicle charging stations and address the racial injustice of highways that were built in ways that destroyed Black neighborhoods.The reports give some data to back up their argument that more money should be spent on roads and bridges. Biden’s plan would modernize 20,000 miles worth of roadways, but California by itself has 14,220 miles of highway in poor condition.Republican lawmakers also object to funding the package by increasing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/corporate-taxes">the corporate tax rate</a>&nbsp;from 21% to 28% and increasing the global minimum tax, among other tax changes including stepped-up IRS enforcement being proposed by the Biden administration.“This is a massive social welfare spending program combined with a massive tax increase on small-business job creators,” Sen Roger Wicker, R-Miss., said on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday. “I can’t think of a worse thing to do.”Yet the state-by-state reports make clear that many of the people Wicker represents could benefit from the package, an aspect of the Biden effort to engender the backing of voters across party lines.Wicker was among four Republicans on the White House guest list for Biden’s Monday meeting, along with Sen. Deb Fischer of Nebraska and Reps. Garret Graves of Louisiana and Don Young of Alaska. Democrats on the list were Sens. Maria Cantwell of Washington and Alex Padilla of California and Reps. Donald Payne Jr. of New Jersey and David Price of North Carolina.Mississippi needs $4.8 billion for drinking water and $289 million for schools. Nearly a quarter of households lack an internet subscription, and a similar percentage lives in areas without broadband. Mississippians who use public transportation have to devote an extra 87.7% of their time to commuting.___

White House issues reports on states' infrastructure needs

YUTAN, Neb. (AP) — Omaha Public Power District has signed a contract to build the state's first solar power plant in eastern Nebraska south of Yutan. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that the utility signed the contract last week to build an 81-megawatt solar farm on 500 acres in Saunders County, with construction to begin next year. 

The contract was signed despite some opposition from some residents in the area, who fear it will become an eyesore and lower property values.

 The project would be the largest solar farm in Nebraska and is the first step toward OPPD’s plan to provide 600 megawatts of solar power. 

OPPD says the facility, dubbed Platteview Solar, would have the capacity to generate enough electricity to power 14,000 homes.

YUTAN, Neb. (AP) — Omaha Public Power District has signed a contract to build the state's first solar power plant in eastern Nebraska south of Yutan. The Omaha World-Herald reports that the utility signed the contract last week to build an 81-megawatt solar farm on 500 acres in Saunders County, with construction to begin next year. The contract was signed despite some opposition from some residents in the area, who fear it will become an eyesore and lower property values. The project would be the largest solar farm in Nebraska and is the first step toward OPPD’s plan to provide 600 megawatts of solar power. OPPD says the facility, dubbed Platteview Solar, would have the capacity to generate enough electricity to power 14,000 homes.

Omaha power utility signs contract for huge solar farm

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A member of Wyoming’s 2021 football recruiting class is dead after a shooting in Texas. 

The Dallas Morning News reports 17-year-old Tony Evans Jr., was shot early Sunday at a hotel in the Dallas area. 

The Dallas Morning News reports another person is wounded. 

Police tell the Casper Star-Tribune nobody has been arrested and the motive is unknown.

 Evans was a wide receiver for Lancaster High School in Texas.

 He signed with Wyoming in February. Wyoming coach Craig Bohl expressed his condolences. 

Bohl was on Tulsa’s coaching staff when Evans’ father played for the Golden Hurricane in the 1980s.

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A member of Wyoming’s 2021 football recruiting class is dead after a shooting in Texas. The Dallas Morning News reports 17-year-old Tony Evans Jr., was shot early Sunday at a hotel in the Dallas area. The Dallas Morning News reports another person is wounded. Police tell the Casper Star-Tribune nobody has been arrested and the motive is unknown. Evans was a wide receiver for Lancaster High School in Texas. He signed with Wyoming in February. Wyoming coach Craig Bohl expressed his condolences. Bohl was on Tulsa’s coaching staff when Evans’ father played for the Golden Hurricane in the 1980s.

Wyoming football recruit killed in Dallas hotel shooting

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Half of South Dakota’s population age 16 and over has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. 

Health officials opened vaccine eligibility to anyone over age 16 on Monday. 

Nearly 300,000 in total have received at least a single dose of the vaccine, and about 70% of those people have completed their vaccinations.

 However, Secretary of Health Kim Malsam-Rysdon warns that there has been a 75% jump in COVID-19 infections among people in their 20s over the last six weeks. 

The state reported 2,413 people with active infections, including 238 new cases. 

There are 102 people in the hospital with COVID-19.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Half of South Dakota’s population age 16 and over has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Health officials opened vaccine eligibility to anyone over age 16 on Monday. Nearly 300,000 in total have received at least a single dose of the vaccine, and about 70% of those people have completed their vaccinations. However, Secretary of Health Kim Malsam-Rysdon warns that there has been a 75% jump in COVID-19 infections among people in their 20s over the last six weeks. The state reported 2,413 people with active infections, including 238 new cases. There are 102 people in the hospital with COVID-19.

South Dakota hits halfway mark for vaccine-eligible people

BOSTON (AP) — U.S. colleges hoping for a return to normalcy next fall are weighing how far they should go in urging students to get the COVID-19 vaccine, including whether they should — or legally can — require it.

Universities including Rutgers, Brown, Cornell and Northeastern recently told students they must get vaccinated before returning to campus next fall. They hope to achieve herd immunity on campus, which they say would allow them to loosen spacing restrictions in classrooms and dorms.

But some colleges are leaving the decision to students, and others believe they can't legally require vaccinations. At Virginia Tech, officials determined that they can’t because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has only allowed the emergency use of the vaccines and hasn't given them its full approval.

The question looms large as more colleges plan to shift back from remote to in-person instruction. Many schools have launched vaccination blitzes to get students immunized before they leave for the summer. At some schools, the added requirement is meant to encourage holdouts and to build confidence that students and faculty will be safe on campus.

“It takes away any ambiguity about whether individuals should be vaccinated,” said Kenneth Henderson, the chancellor of Northeastern University in Boston. “It also provides a level of confidence for the entire community that we are taking all appropriate measures.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617926738657.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By the Associated PressBOSTON (AP) — U.S. colleges hoping for a return to normalcy next fall are weighing how far they should go in urging students to get the COVID-19 vaccine, including whether they should — or legally can — require it.Universities including Rutgers, Brown, Cornell and Northeastern recently told students they must get vaccinated before returning to campus next fall. They hope to achieve herd immunity on campus, which they say would allow them to loosen spacing restrictions in classrooms and dorms.But some colleges are leaving the decision to students, and others believe they can't legally require vaccinations. At Virginia Tech, officials determined that they can’t because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has only allowed the emergency use of the vaccines and hasn't given them its full approval.The question looms large as more colleges plan to shift back from remote to in-person instruction. Many schools have launched vaccination blitzes to get students immunized before they leave for the summer. At some schools, the added requirement is meant to encourage holdouts and to build confidence that students and faculty will be safe on campus.“It takes away any ambiguity about whether individuals should be vaccinated,” said Kenneth Henderson, the chancellor of Northeastern University in Boston. “It also provides a level of confidence for the entire community that we are taking all appropriate measures.”Northeastern and other colleges requiring shots believe they’re on solid legal ground. It’s not unusual for colleges to require students to be vaccinated for other types of diseases, and a California court last year upheld a flu shot requirement at the University of California system.But legal scholars say the COVID-19 vaccines' emergency use status moves the issue to a legal gray area that's likely to be challenged in court, and some colleges may take a more cautious approach to avoid litigation.Harvard Law professor Glenn Cohen, who teaches health law and bioethics, said there's no legal reason colleges wouldn't be allowed to require COVID-19 vaccinations. It makes no difference that the shots haven't been given full approval, he said, noting that many colleges already require students to take coronavirus tests that are approved under the same FDA emergency authorization. But there’s also no federal guidance explicitly permitting vaccination mandates.The biggest clashes could come in states taking a stance against vaccination requirements, he said.In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis this month banned all businesses from requiring customers to show proof of vaccination. The order raises questions about Nova Southeastern University's plan to require students and staff to get vaccinated. The college’s president said he’s still confident in the plan, but he also promised to “respect the laws of our state and all federal directives.”The governor of Texas, the country's second-largest state, issued a similar order.There’s a parallel debate about whether to require vaccination for faculty and staff, an issue that employers across the nation are grappling with. At the University of Notre Dame, one of the latest schools to require student vaccinations, shots are still optional for workers. Northeastern is considering whether to extend its mandate to employees.Even at schools making shots mandatory, there are exemptions. Federal law requires colleges to provide accommodations to students who refuse a vaccine for medical reasons, and most schools are also offering exemptions for religious reasons.At Brown, students who forgo shots and have no valid exemption must file a petition to study remotely or take a leave of absence next fall, the school’s president, Christina Paxson, told students in a letter last week.But enforcing vaccine mandates will bring its own challenges. Cornell and Northeastern say students will be asked to show proof of vaccination, but there is no widely accepted vaccine credential. Cornell told students they can provide the card given out at their vaccination site, but card formats vary and generally seem like they would be easy to forge.At Northeastern, officials are still deciding whether students will have to provide a medical record proving they were vaccinated or whether they will be allowed to attest to having been immunized — essentially taking their word for it.“We would expect students to be honest and forthright about any attestation they make to the university,” Henderson said.Northeastern student Tyler Lee said he thinks requiring vaccinations is the right move because it will help stop the virus’ spread and protect the community around the downtown Boston campus. There has been some pushback from parents, but little from students, he said.“It’s Northeastern’s decision,” said Lee, a senior who is awaiting his second shot. “If I didn’t like it, I would transfer. And that’s what most students feel.”Ariana Palomo, an incoming freshman at Brown, said the university’s mandate sends the message that it’s serious about keeping students safe. She was “happy and relieved” when she heard about it, she said.“I know that I’m going to feel so much safer on campus,” said Palomo, 18. “This is the next step in protecting one another and preventing more lives from being lost.”Schools expect some pushback, and Republican student groups on some campuses have opposed mandates, saying it should be a choice.Colleges are also grappling with what to expect of international students, who may not have access to vaccines in their home countries or who may get shots that are not used in the United States. Some colleges say they’re planning to develop arrangements to make shots available for international students when they arrive.Other colleges are using a lighter touch to promote shots, including at Dickinson State University in North Dakota, which is exempting students from a campus mask mandate two weeks after they are fully vaccinated.Many others are hoping a word of encouragement will be enough. Campus officials at Bowdoin College in Maine said it’s their “hope and expectation” that all students will get shots. Harvard University officials “strongly recommend” that students get vaccinated but have stopped short of a mandate.Some, including Dartmouth College, are waiting for shots to become more widely available before making a decision. Diana Lawrence, a spokesperson for Dartmouth, said officials “cannot make a determination regarding required vaccination until vaccines are accessible for all students.”