April 30, 2024

At 12:45 PM ET, as part of National Small Business Week, the Second Gentleman will visit a local small business. This visit to Warshaw Hardware in New York, NY will be open to pre-credentialed media.

At 4:15 PM ET, the Second Gentleman will participate in a fireside chat on gender equity at Global Citizen NOW. The Second Gentleman will discuss the importance of investing in economic opportunities for women. This event at Spring Studios in New York, NY will be open to pre-credentialed media.

April 30, 2024

At 10:55 AM ET, the Vice President will depart Washington, DC en route to Jacksonville, FL. This departure from Joint Base Andrews will be pooled press.

At 12:45 PM ET, the Vice President will arrive in Jacksonville, FL for her second visit to the state in 2024. This arrival at Jacksonville International Airport will be pooled press and open to pre-credentialed media.

At 2:45 PM ET, the Vice President will deliver remarks about the fight for reproductive freedoms. These campaign remarks will be pooled press and open to pre-credentialed media.

At 4:40 PM ET, the Vice President will depart Jacksonville, FL en route to Washington, DC. This departure from Jacksonville International Airport will be pooled press.

At 6:20 PM ET, the Vice President will arrive in Washington, DC. This arrival at Joint Base Andrews will be pooled press.

# # #

April 30, 2024

society, and other stakeholders to address drivers of conflict and break costly cycles of instability. The Administration is also investing in evidence-based, adaptive, and innovative programs at the local level, aimed at strengthening social inclusion, government responsiveness, service delivery, and security.

Promoting Peace and Preventing Violent Extremism in Coastal West Africa

Working with Congress, the Administration has committed more than $300 million to advance implementation of the ten-year plan to promote stability in the region. As part of this effort, the U.S. and Germany are pursuing a multi-donor partnership in Benin, Ghana, and Togo to counter violent extremism and build trust between communities, governments, and security forces.

USAID partners with more than one hundred local organizations across Benin, Ghana, and Togo to reduce violent conflict by investing in community-based approaches, such as inter-ethnic savings and loans associations and mediation committees. These communities report a 41 percent increase in peacefully resolved conflicts and improved engagement on community stability by local authorities.

The Department of Defense advances civil-military engagement in this priority region with the addition of two persistent Civil Affairs Teams as well as engagements with Benin and Togo through the State Partnership Program. The Department of State has also significantly increased security cooperation with Benin and Côte d'Ivoire to address terrorist threats. The United States became a contributing board member of the multilateral International Counterterrorism Academy based in Côte d'Ivoire which facilitates learning and sharing of best practices among regional security actors.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation is continuing to advance economic growth to promote stability in Coastal West Africa by developing and expanding critical infrastructure and related sectors. Last year, MCC and the Government of Benin celebrated the completion of the $423 million Benin Power Compact to expand access to energy, which is expected to benefit 11 million people over the next 20 years. MCC is currently developing a Regional Transport Compact with the Government Benin, which is contributing $204 million to complement MCC's investment of $202 million, to reduce transportation costs along the economic corridor extending from the Port of Cotonou. In addition, MCC is currently implementing a $525 million compact with Cote d'Ivoire to grow the education and transportation sectors and a $35 million Threshold Program with Togo to improve citizens' access to high quality and affordable Information and Communications Technology services.

Treasury is also facilitating exchanges between USAID, the Department of State, and the African Development Bank to advance AfDB's new country strategy for Ghana.

Strengthening Recovery and Resilience in Mozambique

The ten-year plan aims to support the Government of Mozambique's plans to promote reconciliation, recovery, and inclusive and sustainable development in historically marginalized and conflict-affected northern areas.

In January, USAID and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation joined efforts to marshal more than $32 million to promote market-based farming in Mozambique's Nacala Corridor. This partnership is expected to increase incomes and jobs, particularly for women and youth in conflict-affected northern Mozambique.

MCC is currently implementing a $537 million Connectivity and Coastal Resilience Compact with the Government of Mozambique, which is expected to benefit an estimated 57 million people with inclusive economic growth, strengthened climate and coastal resilience, and improved agricultural value chains and transportation infrastructure.

The Department of Defense provides training and equipment towards maritime security, counter narcotics, and illicit trafficking, aimed at supporting more resilient and responsive security forces. These activities build upon existing regional maritime security programs advancing maritime domain awareness and logistics and sustainment. The Department of State has increased assistance with the Mozambican military to address terrorist threats and maritime security.

Addressing Immediate Needs While Advancing Community Engagement to Increase Security and Prosperity in Haiti

The Haiti ten-year plan recognizes the critical need to address the immediate security crisis as part of its phased approach to long-term stability. Helping Haiti restore security and democracy, especially at this critical moment, remains a top priority for the Biden Administration.

In alignment with the plan's phased approach, the U.S. continues to support the expeditious deployment of the Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti.

The United States also continues to support Haitians in advancing their political process to pave a path towards free and fair elections through programs aimed at strengthening citizen security, community development and resilience, addressing sexual violence, advancing Women, Peace, and Security, and encouraging meaningful dialogue.

Accelerating Grassroots, Bottom-up Stabilization Initiatives in Libya

In addition to addressing the current state of Libya's political impasse at the national level, the ten-year plan targets sub-national opportunities to promote reconciliation, reconstruction, citizen engagement, economic empowerment, and local governance, particularly in the historically marginalized south.

In the southern battle-scarred town of Murzuq, the United States has been instrumental in supporting a community-led reconciliation process. This led to the creation of a Roadmap for Peace and Reconciliation and establishment of the Steering Committee that serves as Murzuq's governing authority.

The United States is continuing to support efforts to promote transparent, accountable, and inclusive service delivery and capital investment planning – critical in fostering stability and supporting the development of Murzuq's reconstruction.

USAID supports Libyan entrepreneurs; micro, small, and medium enterprises; and historically marginalized groups to promote innovation, stronger business practices, and workforce skills that directly respond to market demands.

Elevating the Rights and Roles of Women and Youth for Sustainable Peace in Papua New Guinea

Through the ten-year plan, the United States elevates the rights and roles of women and youth in target communities in Papua New Guinea. Overcoming the marginalization and disempowerment of women and youth provides a critical opportunity for peacebuilding while addressing a key risk for instability.

USAID supports programs to strengthen communities' capabilities to respond to violence while also supporting equitable livelihood opportunities. The Department of State invests in efforts to address gender-based violence , including by improving law enforcement capacity on case management, increasing utilization of police services for GBV survivors, and improving services for GBV survivors.

The Department of State is expanding the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs into Papua New Guinea and is currently recruiting the inaugural cohort for the global exchange program that equips women with the practical skills needed to create sustainable businesses and enterprises.

The Department of Defense is delivering Women, Peace, and Security courses to train and develop a gender advisory workforce with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force focused on gender-based violence prevention and response.

For more information on our work to implement the Strategy, please visit this dedicated website .

"Cooperation and long-term investments in conflict prevention and stabilization are needed now more than ever to build peace across divided communities and boundaries. We must collectively bolster societal resilience to prevent and reduce the heavy human and financial costs of conflicts that undermine global peace, security, and sustainable development."

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

April 30, 2024

April 30, 2024

ON CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Via Teleconference

MODERATOR: Thank you. And thank you, everyone, for joining today's call this afternoon to preview the upcoming National Security Memorandum on Critical Infrastructure. On today's call, we have Caitlin Durkovich, Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy Homeland Security Advisor for Resilience and Response and Jen Easterly, Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Just a few remarks at the top. Opening remarks from our two speakers here will be on the record. The following Q&A portion of the call will be on background and speakers will then be attributed at "senior administration officials." The call will also be held under embargo until 10:00 a.m. Eastern tomorrow morning. And by participating in today's call, you are agreeing to these ground rules.

I will now turn the call over to Caitlin to kick us off.

MS. DURKOVICH: Thank you very much, Michael. And good afternoon, everyone.

Tomorrow, President Biden will sign a national security memorandum or NSM to enhance the security and resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure from the rapidly evolving threat environment.

This is part of what we refer to as our all-hazards approach to the resilience of the nation. This new policy will replace a decade-old presidential policy document on critical infrastructure protection that was issued during the Obama administration and launch a whole-of-government effort to protect U.S. critical infrastructure against all current and future hazards, including climate change and threats from nation-state actors.

As background, the effort to draft this new policy began over a year ago and the process has included significant input from the private sector; our state, local, Tribal, and territorial partners; and other stakeholders and critical infrastructure experts from across the country.

The NSM takes several important new actions. First, it empowers the Department of Homeland Security to lead a whole-of-government effort to secure U.S. critical infrastructure with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency acting as the national coordinator for the security and resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure.

As part of this new responsibility, the Secretary of Homeland Security will be required to submit to the President a biennial National Risk Management Plan that summarizes U.S. government efforts to mitigate risks to the nation's critical infrastructure.

Second, it directs the U.S. intelligence community, consistent with the goals outlined in the 2023 National Intelligence Strategy, to collect, produce, and share intelligence and information with the owners and operators of critical infrastructure. The NSM recognizes private sector owners and operators of critical infrastructure are often our first line of defense against adversaries who target the nation's most critical assets and systems.

Third, it reaffirms the designation of 16 critical infrastructure sectors and specifies which federal departments or agencies are responsible for managing risks within each of those sectors.

Fourth, it elevates the importance of minimum security and resilience requirements within and across critical infrastructure sectors consistent with the National Cyber Strategy, which recognizes the limits of a voluntary approach to risk management in the current threat environment. It is important that we work together to set baseline security standards for the lifeline sectors on which the American way of life and our democracy depends.

The policy is particularly relevant today, given continued disruptive ransomware attacks, cyberattacks on U.S. water systems by our adversaries, and the frequent and repeated testimony of the FBI Director and other senior administration officials who have sounded the alarm about the ways our critical infrastructure is being targeted by our adversaries.

I'm joined on the call today by [senior administration official], who -- in addition to being an essential partner in drafting the policy, along with Director Easterly and her team -- can answer more questions about these cyberattacks.

Let me conclude by underscoring that America faces an era of strategic competition where state actors will continue to target American critical infrastructure and tolerate or enable malicious activity conducted by non-state actors.

In the event of crisis or conflict, we know that America's adversaries may attempt to compromise our critical infrastructure to undermine the will of the American public and impede the projection of U.S. military power abroad. Resilience, particularly for our most sensitive assets and systems, is the cornerstone of homeland defense and security.

And with that, I have the pleasure of turning it over to my colleague, Director Easterly, to talk more about the role of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency in this effort.

Jen, over to you.

MS. EASTERLY: Fantastic. Thanks so much, Caitlin. And good afternoon, everybody. I am really pleased to be there -- to be here today. It is a very important moment for our nation's critical infrastructure.

As Caitlin alluded to, the threat environment has changed significantly since PPD-21 was issued in 2013, shifting from counterterrorism to strategic competition, advances in technology like artificial intelligence, and malicious cyber activity from nation-state actors.

And in addition, since that period of time in 2013, the USG has significantly invested in critical infrastructure to include the establishment of CISA, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

So, this NSM really builds on important work that has been happening across the government and, in particular, CISA and agencies, working with industry undertaking a partnership to ensure that we can understand, manage, and reduce risk to the cyber and physical infrastructure that Americans rely on every hour of every day.

For CISA, the NSM means three things. First, CISA's role as national coordinator, which really reinforces what was in the CISA statute of 2018. And this responsibility requires CISA to coordinate that national effort to secure and protect critical infrastructure by coordinating with the sector risk management agencies with relevant departments and agencies, the private sector, state and local partners to reduce risk at scale.

And in this role, CISA develops guidance and provides risk assessments, cross-sector risk analysis, information sharing, and capacity building for government partners and for critical infrastructure owners and operators across the nation.

Second, CISA serves as an SRMA itself, providing institutional knowledge and specialized expertise for the eight critical infrastructure sectors and one subsector -- and that includes chemical, commercial facilities, critical manufacturing, emergency services, information technology, communication, dams, nuclear, and then, of course, the election subsector. And in this role, we support sector risk management, assess sector risk, and we share information on physical and cyber threats.

Finally, CISA will continue to support the work of our partners across the USG by leveraging existing relationships and processes and networks to share critical information and guidance and then provide additional guidance and resources to aid sector risk management agencies in the execution of the roles and responsibilities in the new NSM.

And I'll say the good news is that the work that is being directed in the NSM is underway. We've already reestablished the Federal Senior Leadership Council, known as the FSLC, and made impressive strides through robust collaborations across the interagency.

And so, that is a heavy lift, but work is already being done to define, modernize, and protect our critical infrastructure sectors.

In addition, as part of our role as national coordinator, we've already provided guidance and templates to sector risk management agencies to use in creating sector risk assessments and sector-specific risk management plans. And these are a resource for SRMAs to meet the requirements laid out in the NSM.

And then, finally, in our role as national coordinator, we've began the work to establish systemically important entities -- that critical infrastructure, which is prioritized based on the potential for disruption or malfunction to cause nationally significant and cascading negative impacts to national security and economic security or public health and safety. That SIE list will inform prioritization of federal activities, including risk mitigation efforts and other operational resources to non-federal entities.

So, we are very excited to see this NSM hit the street. And we look forward to our role as the national coordinator for critical infrastructure resilience and security and emphasizing that in all the work that we do.

Thank you.

MODERATOR: Thank you, Director Easterly.

We will now move on to the Q&A portion. As a reminder, this portion of the call will be on background and attributed to "senior administration officials."

We also have two other speakers on the line for this portion, [senior administration official] and [senior administration official].

And again, everyone will be attributed as "senior administration official."

[DEL: Moderator :DEL] [Operator], I think we're ready to open it up for Q&A. And then I'll just ask if you could just go to the first questioner when -- when they ask their question. Thank you.

Q Hey. Thank you all for holding this.

I just wanted to clarify. You said this reaffirms the current 16 critical infrastructure sectors. Does that mean that the status quo -- like, that no new infrastructure sectors were added? And if so, did -- in crafting this, were there deliberations or considerations to add new critical infrastructure sectors, like space?

Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: David, it's [senior administration official]. Thank you very much for that question. And I'll take the first part of it, which is: Yes, it, again, reaffirms the 16 critical infrastructure sectors. There are no changes.

I'm going to turn it over to [senior administration official] to let her kind of talk about the process that was undertaken to do the evaluation and to make the recommendations that the current structure remain the same.

So, [senior administration official].

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, absolutely.

Some will remember that in the FY 2021 NDAA, Congress essentially asked us to establish a process to regularly review and modify critical infrastructure, the sector structure at least every five years.

And we undertook that process through and produced a report: the 9002 Report. And then, based on the findings in that report, we worked with the Federal Senior Leadership Council to look at and revalidate both the sectors themselves, as well as the Sector Risk Management Agency.

And so, over a period of about the last year, we worked extensively and consultatively with all of those sector risk management agencies, and we ended with validating the 16 sectors and the sector risk management agencies.

So, a lot of work went into it, but I think the takeaway is that the processes that had been developed over the past decade to articulate those critical infrastructure sectors were sound processes, and we'll continue to use that Federal Senior Leadership Council as the central coordinating body as we look to implement all the tasks in the national security memorandum.

Q Hi. I wanted to see if you could elaborate more on entities and how you are addressing the Section 9 entities that were originally in the PPD-21 NSM back in 2013.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, I'm happy to take that, [senior administration official], if you like.

So, as you'll see --

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: As you'll see in the NSM, part of our role is to establish the systemically important entities, and I mentioned the specific role. So, we've actually been working on that over the past several years, since the Cyberspace Solarium Commission had written a report on what they called "SICI" -- systemically important critical infrastructure.

So, this will, in effect, replace what were the Section 9 entities. And we were very deliberate about working with the SMRAs to ensure that we were highlighting those entities across all of the sectors that are most critical to national security, economic security, and public health or safety in particular that could cause significant and cascading negative impacts.

So, that list is about -- it's less than 500 entities, but -- and we've been working to and we're finalizing revalidating that with industry as well. And similar to the Section 9 list, we, of course, are not going to make that public.

However, we're working very closely with SRMAs and industry to ensure that those particular entities are -- we're working closely with them to ensure they have the resources necessary to manage risk.

And I think the last thing I'd mentioned is Caitlin highlighted the importance of minimum standards for security. So, we'll be looking at those entities, in particular, with an eye towards the importance of establishing minimum cybersecurity standards.

MODERATOR: I think we're ready to go to the next question.

Q Thank you. Jason Miller, Federal News Network. Quick question. You mentioned the sharing of information. One of the big challenges has been with critical infrastructure over the years is sharing classified or sensitive but unclassified information because of security clearance challenges. What does the national security memorandum or what are you doing to address that ongoing issue to get enough people with enough information enough security clearances so they can actually act on it or has that been relatively solved over last few years?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I'm happy to start. And certainly, [senior administration official], please jump in. Thanks for the question, Jason.

So, as you probably know, we run the private sector clearance program for the government, so we work to get private-sector entities their clearances, and we have a pretty robust process to ensure that, if necessary, we can get private-sector partners cleared in.

I would say a couple of things, however. Kudos to the intelligence community. And we saw this around the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. A lot of the information that critical infrastructure owners and operators needed to understand the threat and to take urgent action to improve the security and resilience of their infrastructure from potential retaliatory attacks by the Russian government, some of that information was helpfully declassified, which I know that the IC is looking to make sure that if the information can be safely declassified, then it is.

I would also say that during that same period of time, and we have replicated that model with the serious threats from Chinese cyber actors known as Volt Typhoon, we have held extensive briefings at various levels of classifications with cleared sector personnel to ensure that they are aware that we're aware, in 2022, of the Russian threat and are aware now of the serious Chinese threats to our critical infrastructure, specifically pre-positioning to disrupt or destroy critical infrastructure in the event of a major crisis.

So, I think this administration has made significant strides both in clearing people in, in declassifying information as necessary, and then also in providing classified briefings to ensure that critical infrastructure owners and operators are prepared for the full range of threats.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: This is [senior administration official].

OPERATOR: Next we'll --

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Pardon me.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I would just add that specifically in the NSM, there are some tasks to the ODNI specifically, that it works with the entire intelligence community to provide the President with an intelligence assessment on critical infrastructure within 180 days. And, of course, that -- we will work to share that with the owner and operator community, but also to provide the President with a report on information in an intelligence sharing.

And as part of that, ODNI is to work with CISA and the sector risk management agencies to develop a system for streamlining and coordinating outreach to and engagement with the owners and operators of infrastructure by developing policy, procedure, and guidance on these topics.

And I think as [senior administration official] alluded to, we have a lot of instructive emerging practices and lessons learned from what has happened in the first three years of this administration that, as we work to develop those policies and procedures, will be accounted for really, again, with the goal of making sure that those that are managing the risk to critical infrastructure and are on the frontlines have the intelligence and the information that they need to know to make investments, to invest in mitigation actions so we can adequately ensure the security and the resilience of these critical assets and systems.

Q Hi. Thank you for doing this. Can you just describe a bit more exactly what is changing for CISA? It did sound like some of those things that CISA is already doing. Is this just kind of like reaffirming like as a national coordinator, SRMA, the eight sectors, and the system of important critical -- SIE actually, not -- not .

And additionally, can you also -- are you calling for new standards? Or is there like -- is this another call for new standards or is this like a move to actually set, you know, standards across the line for critical infrastructure? Can you go over that as well, please? Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, I'll take the first one and then I'll turn it to [senior administration official] to talk about what the NSM calls for. And, Christian, as you know, the statute that established CISA in 2018 tasked us to manage -- to lead a national effort to secure critical infrastructure, but the presidential policy directive that was created in 2013 didn't mention anything about CISA's role because we weren't created yet.

So, in some sense, this does reinforce our statutory role, but extremely important that it lays out in presidential policy the specific roles that we have as both a national coordinator in terms of managing cross-sector risk to those 16 sectors, CISA's role as an SRMA, and then what we will -- the mechanisms that we will use -- for example, the FSLC, which was reinvigorated about a year and a half ago as a coordinating body to allow us to better manage risk across the various critical infrastructure sectors through the sector risk management agencies.

So, I think this helps to reinforce the statutory role we have. It reinforces the authorities that we have and, I think, really puts a spotlight on the fact that as critical infrastructure has evolved -- given the highly interdependent, highly connected, highly digitized, and, frankly, highly vulnerable nature of the critical infrastructure that Americans rely on every hour of every day -- having a coordinating element to really manage that cross-sector risk and drive down that cross-sector risk, I think it's incredibly important to the security of the nation.

I'll turn it to [senior administration official].

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks, [senior administration official]. And -- again, and I think underscoring the importance of CISA as the national coordinator for critical infrastructure security and resilience, it also underscores that SRMAs will serve as the day-to-day federal interface for their designated critical infrastructure sector and conduct that sector-specific risk management and resilience activity.

And, of course, as you mentioned, CISA is the SRMA sectors, but distinguishing CISA's role as national coordinator and then as the sector risk management agency for eight sectors.

Related to your question about new regulation. At the end of the day, the NSM is directing the Sector Risk Management Agencies to assess whether current and existing minimum requirements sufficiently address the vulnerabilities in their sectors.

These requirements are going to be developed or need to be developed in close coordination with the owners and operators of that infrastructure to ensure they are appropriate and proportionate to the vulnerability.

If an SRMA feels that it does not have the tools or authorities necessary to ensure effective implementation of those requirements, we have built in a process to help the SRMA be able to hold the sector accountable and, if need be, develop those minimum requirements.

Q Thank you. Very helpful. Appreciate it.

Q So, I do have a question about the 9002 Report. And one thing that it said was that there was, quote, "an opportunity to designate a space sector and a bio-economy sector depending on a review process." Unquote.

You talked a little bit about that report, [senior administration official], but I'm wondering if you can expand on why the review process did not end up finding that there was a need for those particular sectors, because they were called out in the report that CISA produced.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, absolutely. Thanks for the question. So, we did, in fact, highlight, as you said, in 9002 Report. As I mentioned, we had a pretty extensive process where we worked with the various sector risk management agencies to determine whether, in fact, space or bio-economy should become new sectors.

Ultimately, with respect to space, in particular, because space is really a part of so many different sectors, it did not, at this time, make sense to break space out as a separate sector. We're going to continue to manage space as a sector through a working group that we're a co-chair of. But -- and similarly, with bio-economy, the members of the FSLC did not think it needed to be called out as a separate sector.

However, through the FSLC, if there are significant changes, we will take a look to see if a formal designation as a sector or as a subsector makes sense going forward. And we won't need to wait for that statutory five years to make that assessment if there's a need or requirement. Just given what's happening across the landscape, we can make that judgment earlier.

MODERATOR: All right. Thank you so much. I'm just going to turn it quickly over to [senior administration official] for some closing remarks here.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Again, thank you. First of all, [senior administration official], thank you for joining us. Thank you for your partnership. And thank all of those who have joined us today to learn more about the policy.

This is a very important milestone for this administration. Again, it is the culmination of over a year of work, both convening the interagency and those federal agencies that are responsible for working with the private sector to help manage risks but others in academia and across the critical infrastructure sector.

Given the dynamic and complex risk environment, I very much feel that this policy prepares us for the next decade -- what the President calls a decisive decade -- and what lies out on the horizon and the acknowledgment that both more must be done to protect assets and that works with sectors but equally important look across sectors and work to understand those dependencies and interdependencies where there might be vulnerabilities and to shore up those vulnerabilities.

So, this is a very exciting moment. As somebody who worked on PPD 21, to have an opportunity to work on the evolution of that policy and to be able to have the President sign out what you will see tomorrow is very exciting.

So, thank you all. And we'll follow up as needed.

MODERATOR: Great. Thank you, [senior administration official]. Thank you, [senior administration official]. And thank you all for joining us today. follow-up questions, feel free to reach out to myself and the NSC press team, and we will get back to you. Thank you very much.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks so much.

April 30, 2024

James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

2:36 P.M. EDT

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Hey. Good afternoon, everyone.

Q Good afternoon.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Happy Monday. Hopefully everyone is recovered from the weekend.

Q What happened over the weekend?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't know. I don't know. Nerd prom. I think that's what they call it.

Q You never know.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You never know.

Okay. So, I have a couple -- like, two things at the top, and then we can get into it.

So, I want to begin, actually, on a solemn note. Over the weekend, deadly storms devastated communities across the Midwest. We are praying for those impacted and the families who lost loved ones, as well as those who were injured.

The White House is coordinating with state and local officials, and we stand ready to provide support as needed.

FEMA will be on the ground today to assess the extent of the damage. And tomorrow, the FEM- -- FEMA Administrator will travel to Oklahoma to meet with state and Tribal leaders and hear directly from those who have been impacted.

We are grateful for the first responders and rescue teams who have been working around the clock. Residents should remain vigilant and continue to heed the instructions of local officials.

Turning to this week, today kicks off National Small Business Week. Under President Biden's leadership, we have empowered small businesses and small-business owners nationwide, leading to a small-business boom.

We have been -- we have seen historic growth in business applications over the last three years, and we're on pace to s- -- to set more records in 2024.

There have been more than 17 million new business applications filed during the Biden-Harris administration. Building on this progress, the Small Business Administration announced that our administration has awarded a record amount of federal contract dollars to small businesses. And we are releasing the third annual Small Business Boom Report, which shows how SBA has nearly doubled small dollar loans to small businesses compared to 2020.

To highlight this work, Vice President Harris is kicking off her new -- her -- her national Economic Opportunity Tour in Atlanta where she will meet with small-business owners who are taking advantage of how -- resources to help launch and scale their businesses.

The President and Vice President will continue fighting congressional Republicans' attacks on small businesses, including their attempts to cut SBA funding by 31 percent.

And I lied. I have one more thing for you, and then we'll get going.

Looking ahead to later this week, the President will travel to Wilmington, North Carolina, on Thursday to discuss how his [DEL: investigation :DEL] [investing] in Amer- -- in America is rebuilding our infrastructure and creating good-paying jobs in Wilmington and across the country.

We certainly will have additional information for all of you in the days ahead. And please stay tuned.

With that, hey, Darlene.

Q Hi. Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Hello.

Q Two foreign questions and then one quick domestic one.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Sure.

Q Does the White House see any forward progress with the latest hostage deal that Secretary Blinken described as "extraordinarily generous" on the part of Israel?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, a couple of things. As you know, we put out a readout yesterday that the President -- the call that the President had with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. And the significant focus of that -- of that call was obviously on securing the release of all hos- -- of all hostages and paving the way to a prolonged ceasefire that would provide relief to the people of Gaza.

In recent days, there has been new progress in talks. And currently, the onus is indeed on Hamas. There is a deal on the table, and they need to take it. We believe that all efforts need to be brought to bear to convince Hamas to accept the proposal immediately.

And so, to that end, just a little information for all of you. This afternoon, the President will speak with the Amir of Qatar and President of Egypt. Secretary Blinken, as just you noted in your question, is in the region right now to carry out the same message that I just laid out to you.

This has been a sustained effort. And the United States is not alone in this effort.

You saw our joint statement -- the joint statement last week with the 17 other world leaders demanding that Hamas release our citizens without delay.

And so, we're going to continue to have those conversation. It is a priority. It is a priority to get those hostages home. It is a priority to get to a ceasefire. And is -- obviously and a priority to get that all-important humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Q Would the U.S. or the White House see any potential arrests by the ICC as a -- as an aggravating factor in the negotiations?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, we've been really clear about the ICC investigation. We do not support it. We don't believe that they have the jurisdiction. And I'm just going to leave it there for now.

Q On U.S. and Mexico. The joint statement from President Biden and López Obrador today talked about agreeing to implement immediately concrete measures to significantly reduce irregular border crossings. Have those concrete measures already been agreed to? And can you give any detail on what they are?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yep. As you just mentioned, the President and the President of Mex- -- our President and the President of Mexico spoke yesterday. There was a joint statement that we put out. I'm going to be really careful here. I'm not going to get ahead of what was laid out in the statement.

But this is -- I would say this is a continued commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship that we have and the reg- -- regional cooperation. And let's not forget, that regional cooperation will benefit here -- us here in the United States but also the people of Mexico.

So, I'm not going to go beyond the readout, that joint statement that came out.

Go ahead, Mary.

Q Following up on that. Darlene mentioned Secretary Blinken did describe this new proposal as "extraordinarily generous." Can you explain a little what he meant by that? What about this -- this new proposal is so generous?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm not going to characterize the proposal. I'm not going to get into any of the specifics. But what we believe is that now is the time for Hamas to take this deal. It is on the table. It is time to -- is way past time to get these hostages home. It is way past time to get to a ceasefire. And we need to make sure we continue to get that humanitarian aid. As we know, it is a dire situation in Gaza.

I just don't have anything to share beyond what -- what S- -- the Secretary spoke to. He's going to, obviously, meet with regional partners as he's there to continue that pressure, to continue that conversation, to continue that diplomacy that -- that we -- that's needed in this time. But Hamas needs to take this deal.

Q And on another continuing conversation. Is there any update on this in-person meeting between Israeli and U.S. officials that keeps being pushed down?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Are you talking about the Rafah --

Q Yes.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- re- -- in regard to the Rafah operations?

Look, as you -- as you know, Israel had -- has a lot on their plate. They had to deal with what occurred with Iran. And so, they've been -- you know, they've been pretty -- pretty busy in -- in the last couple of weeks, having -- having to, you know, protect their security.

And so, we have had two virtual meetings that Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor, has led. We believe that they've been productive. We believe that -- that the Israeli government is taking our concerns into account. And those conversations are going to continue.

Q Is it still your expectation that there will, at some point, be --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We --

Q -- an in-person --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We would -- yes, we would like to have an in-person meeting. That is certainly what we would like to do. But in the meantime, we've had two important virtual meetings. And in -- in the readout yesterday, we mentioned that that -- that the Rafah -- potential Rafah operations did come up between the two leaders in their conversation.

Q And just on another topic. We're -- obviously, everyone's watching today what's going on at Columbia University. Has the President or anyone from the White House spoken to -- to university leadership? Is the President satisfied with how they're handling the situation?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I will say this. Look -- and -- and we've said this many times. This is nothing new. The President has always been clear that while Americans have the right to peacefully protest -- that's something that we believe here in this administration -- he stands squarely, squarely against any -- any rhetoric -- violent rhetoric; any hate -- hate threats; and physical intimidation and hate speech.

Obviously, we believe and we have said antisemitism is dangerous, it is hate speech, and it is abhorrent. And there is no place for antisemitism on campuses or any- -- anywhere else.

It is a painful moment. We get that. We get that it is a painful moment that Americans are dealing with. And free expression has to be done within the law. And, you know, we're going to continue to be very clear about that. That has not changed. We've been very consistent.

Go ahead, Jeff.

Q Thanks, Karine. Does the White House have a reaction to World Central Kitchen's decision to restart operations in Gaza?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Can I just fir- -- can I just first say that the work that humanitarian aid workers do is brave, is incredibly important, and it is good to hear that they are going back to deal -- to do the brave work that they continue to do not just in Gaza, obviously -- in Haiti and Sudan and many other places around the country -- around the globe, pardon me.

And -- and so, we are -- we're -- we're happy to hear that. As you know, the President had a conversation with the Prime Minister about making sure that we deconflict and protect the lives of humanitarian aid workers as they're out there being brave, offering assistance to -- to Palestinians in Gaza.

And so, we have seen some steps being taken by Israel to do just that. And we will always encourage and continue to have those discussions with Israel to do more.

And so, we are certainly encouraged by that -- by humanitarian aid workers from WCK going back out there -- and also encouraged by -- by the steps that -- that the Israeli government has taken to make sure that more humanitarian aid gets in.

Q Did you consult with them at all about that decision? And are you -- are you confident that -- that the aid workers are not going to be at further risk?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, we're going to con- -- again, we're going to continue to be very clear with the Israeli government on making sure that they are protected -- humanitarian aid workers are protected. And we have seen some progress in that -- in that deconflicting, and we've seen aid increase.

I do want to lay out a couple of things that in the aid -- humanitarian aid going in that we've seen increase: Overall, nearly 5,000 trucks have entered Gaza since early April. That includes almost 200 humanitarian and commercial trucks a day, on average, entering Gaza in the late three -- in the last three weeks. Some days, 400-plus truckloads enter. The United States conducted over 30 airdrops for relief supplies, including over 1 million meals, a hundred and forty-one thousand three- -- -- 141,300 bottles of water to Gaza as of April 28 th.

And a lot of that is because of the President stepping in and making very clear that we need to do more. And the -- the United States have -- have led in the effort on getting that humanitarian aid.

Q Just lastly, a follow-up on Mary's question.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Does the White House support peaceful protesters at Columbia or elsewhere being threatened with being removed from -- from the school or being put on discipline or probation?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So --

Q Is that --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Sorry.

Q -- do you think that that --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm so sorry.

Q -- that that is fair?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, got to be super, super mindful. These are institutions -- some of them are private, some of them are public -- and it is up to their leadership -- university leadership and colleges to make that decision. Not going to weigh in on that from here.

We're going to continue to say all Americans have the right to peacefully protest. At the same time, we have to call out any hateful rhetoric that we hear. Antisemitism is wrong. And so, we're going to continue to -- to do that.

But universities and colleges make their own decisions. It is up to their leadership. We're not going to weigh in from here.

Go ahead, Weijia.

Q Thank you, Karine. Our new CBS News poll found that registered voters in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania believe that they would be financially better off if Trump wins. How do you explain that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm going to be careful because we're talking about vote- -- registered voters. We're talking about a candidate now -- obviously, the former President, who is now a candidate. I got to be mindful of the Hatch Act, and so can't -- can't speak to -- to that specifically.

But what I will say more broadly is we understand what Americans have gone through. We understand that the pandemic was a heavy, heavy burden on Americans. We understand that Putin's aggression into Ukraine caused inflation to rise -- right? -- pandemic caused inflation to rise, caused damages to the supply chain. And so, that's why the President took action.

The American Rescue Plan, obviously, was incredibly important in turning the economy around, dealing with the supply chains.

And we also understand that prices are still too high. They're still too high, so this is why you hear us talk about junk fees. This is why you hear us talk about lowering prescription du- -- drugs -- it is important -- making sure that big corporations and billionaires pay their fair share.

And so, we're going to do more work. And we're hoping that message gets through to the American people. That's why you've seen the President in New Hampshire; in Las Vegas; in Madison, Wisconsin, laying down that message to -- directly to the American people.

But there is a contrast here. There's a stark contrast to what we see what the President has been doing, this adma- -- administration -- the Biden-Harris administration -- and what Republicans are trying to do. They literally put out a budget that cuts Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and gives special interest groups, billionaires, and corporations a tax break. The President doesn't believe that.

So, that -- that's what I will say. I have to be really mindful to not speak specifically to that poll.

But, more broadly, that's what I can say, and I understand -- we understand what Americans are -- are feeling right now. That's why we're trying to do more.

Q Is the President frustrated that despite the fact that he continues to say --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- what he has done, that Ame- -- some Americans are not feeling the impact --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look --

Q -- of his policies?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- we have seen some consumer confidence go up over the past couple of months, and I think that's important to note. And so, that is out there -- that data is out there.

Look, this is a pr- -- we're talking about a president who understands what it feels like to sit around your kitchen table and have to make difficult decision. We get that. He gets that. This is why he's trying to build an economy from the bottom up, middle out. He's been very, very clear about -- this is a sympathetic president, so he gets it.

So, it's -- he's not going to be frustrated by that. What he's going to do is continue to do the additional work to lower cost and do everything that we can there and to go out there -- to go out there and speak directly to the American people. I think that's the most effective way to do that.

Q Just one quick follow-up --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Sure. Sure.

Q -- on Jeff and Mary. And correct me if you already answered th- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Jeff and Mary?

Q On Jeff and Mary.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, Jeff and Mary, the -- your -- . I'm sorry. Your colleagues.

Q I know. It's a blur for everyone today.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: It felt -- it felt really -- it felt like, "Jeff and Mary?" Oh, gosh.

Q From the weekend. So --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I do know who -- who you guys are. I -- --

Q I'm sorry if I missed this. But --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- is the answer, no, the administration has not been in touch with anyone at Columbia?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I -- I don't have any readout. I should have -- I should have answered that in -- I believe that was Jeff's question. I -- I don't have any calls to read out to you of conversations with any university -- any university leaders at this time.

Obviously, the President is going to go speak at Morehouse. And so, we've been in touch with them because he's going to give -- deliver a commencement speech. He's looking forward to doing that. It is such an important moment in time for graduates. And he's going to go, obviously, to -- to West Point. Those are the two that he's doing.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks.

Q Thanks, Karine. I wanted to go back to last week. The administration announced that it was again delaying --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Last week?

Q I know. All the way back a few days ago.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All the way back.

Q The administration announced that it was again delaying a potential ban on menthol cigarettes.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q What do you say to critics that say this decision is prioritizing politics over health outcomes?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q And can you give a timeline for this decision to actually be made?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, Secretary Becerra obviously put out a statement on this, I believe on Friday.

And I'll say this. Look, the rule garnered a lot of attention -- historic attention and -- during the public comment period, obviously. And -- and so, we got an im- -- an immense amount of feedback. And this is including various comments and feedback from civil rights organizations and also the criminal justice movement. And we want to be really mindful to that.

And so, obviously, there's more conversations to be had. And we have to really address the concerns of civil rights leaders and also the criminal justice leaders and also the many, many Americans who wanted to make sure that their voices were being heard.

And so, it's going to take more time. I don't have a timeline. This is an OMB process. They're going to run through that process. And we just want to make sure that -- that

we deal with this significant policy issues that are in front of us right now.

Q The Secretary of State met with the Saudi Crown Prince today. Obviously, they were talking primarily about the hostage ceasefire deal. But I'm wondering, headed into the summer months, if that conversation or any conversation with the Saudis recently have touched on oil production and what you'd like to see from them.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I don't have anything to say about -- about that piece. I think the State -- the State Department -- this is Blinken's trip -- if that came up, they will have more to say on that.

I don't want to lose -- to lose -- you know, to lose the importance of the Secretary Bli- -- being in the region right now. We have to get this hostage deal done. It's on the table for Hamas to -- to take. He's going to -- the Secretary is going to meet with regional partners.

And it is time to -- only Hamas is standing in the way right now. It is time to move. We got to get these hostages home. We got to get to a ceasefire. And we got to continue to get that humanitarian aid. It is dire. The situation is dire in Gaza, as you all know.

Q And a last quick one. The Washington Post had a lengthy story today detailing efforts by Indian intelligence services to carry out an assassination in the United States.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Now that some of those -- I know you were asked about it when they were --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- when this first emerged. But now that the details are known, can you talk about how, if at all, this has impacted our relationship with India --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- what steps we may be taking to make sure that, you know, something like this doesn't happen?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, any specifics -- there's an investigation, as you know, going -- going on. So, as you just stated in your question to me, in a criminal investigation, De- -- Department of Justice obviously is running that, so anything specific to that, I would have to refer to the DOJ.

Look, India is an important strategic partner here in the United States for the -- of -- sorry, of the United States. So, we are pursuing an ambitious agenda to expand our cooperation in sev- -- in several areas.

As you know, we've been really consistent about that and have laid that out multiple times, whether it's a meeting here with the -- with the Prime Minister or a meeting abroad.

This is a serious matter, and we're taking that very, very seriously. The government of India has been very clear with us that they are taking this seriously and -- and will investigate. And we expect that accountability from the government based on that.

And so -- but we're going to continue to raise our concerns. That's not going to stop. We're going to continue to raise our concerns directly -- directly with the Indian government.

Go ahead, Gabe.

Q Karine, with regards to the ICC's potential warrants, I know you've said that it's the White House's position that the ICC does not have jurisdiction. But did the issue come up yesterday during the President's call with Prime Minister Netanyahu?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything to -- to read out beyond the readout. I don't have anything to lay out there.

Obviously -- and I said this moments ago -- the si- -- what was the -- what was significantly discuss- -- the primary focus of that call was obviously that hostage deal, getting to a ceasefire, getting humanitarian aid into Gaza -- that was incredibly important -- and, obviously, our continued support for -- for Israel's security. That continues to be ironclad, obviously, that -- we've shown that.

But we need to get to that hostage deal. We need to get the hostages home. We need to get to a ceasefire. And that was the primary conversation. And obviously, the Rafah operations was discussed as well.

Q Is the U.S. directly involved in any diplomatic effort to prevent those warrants from being issued?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything beyond that.

Look, we just don't -- we don't believe it's in the ICC jurisdiction in this situation. We do not support the investigation. And I think that kind of answers that question, when we say we do not support this and we do not believe it's in their -- in their jurisdiction --

Q And following up --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- ICC's jurisdiction.

Q And following up to -- excuse me.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, sorry.

Q I'm sorry.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, no, no, no.

Q I'm sorry to interrupt, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, no, no, no, no. I just have -- I have a little bit to say, but it's okay -- -- Gabe. Go ahead, Gabe.

Q Switching gears to another topic --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- and following up on what you said earlier about the protests at Columbia. Earlier you talked about how you didn't want to comment on what school administrators might do. But the protesters themselves have now defied that 2:00 p.m. deadline. Should they leave?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The protesters themselves have --

Q At Columbia, yes. There was a deadline for them to leave by 2:00 p.m., and they have not done so. What does the White House think --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You mean that Columbia has -- has -- has said there is a 2:00 p.m. deadline --

Q Yes.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- for them? Okay.

I'm just not going to comment on leadership in -- in col- -- at colleges and university, their decisions. That's for them to decide.

We've been very clear. Americans have the right to pro- -- to peacefully protest. And we're going to continue to call out any type of hateful rhetoric, any type of potential hateful violence here. It has no place in America. Antisemitism we're going to call out. It is abhorrent. And -- and that is hate speech.

We're just going to be consistent. When it comes to those types of decisions on campuses, that is something for college, universities' leadership to decide on.

Q And finally, one more, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q As a dog lover -- as a dog lover yourself --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh. Oh, gosh.

Q What does the President and the White House think about Kristi Noem's upcoming book?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I saw that. It's very sad. It's very sad. It's a sad story. That's all I have for you. It's -- it's sad.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. More broadly, is the White House concerned about safety issues at university graduations this year?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'll sa- -- look, I'll say this, and I kind of said this at the top: Commencement day for -- for college kids is such an important day. You all know that. I'm sure you all have experienced the -- how important it is that day, not just for you or for them, in this case, but for parents and loved ones who are here to -- to celebrate -- to celebrate their -- their loved one graduating from college. And that is really important.

You know, it is important that Americans are given the opportunity to peacefully protest. We have to make sure that is something that -- that is afforded to Americans. And -- and respecting what commencements are truly about, those things are really important.

You know, we hope that schools can -- can hold commencement celebrations while respecting difficult viewpoints that -- that we're seeing right now in these issues. And we understand that it is a painful, painful moment.

Q Are you -- is the White House in touch with -- or the Department of Education in touch with universities to check on their planning or security measures they might be taking?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I would refer to Department of -- of Education on that. I don't have anything to share at this time from here.

Go ahead, Asma.

Q Thanks, Karine. What is the administration's response specifically to the use of police force in some of these college campus protests? We saw this at Indiana University, Ohio State, Emory, UT Austin.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah. So, again, I'm going to be really repetitive here. It's -- Americans have the right to peacefully protest within the law. That is really important here.

Antisemitism is dangerous.

I know I've seen -- we've -- you've seen the -- the videos that have pretty much gone viral out there. And I can't speak to that. We may have more to say about those videos once we look into the -- once -- you know, we'd have to look into them. Just don't have anything to share beyond that.

But it is important. It is important for Americans to have the right to peacefully protest. We understand this is within the law. And we understand this is a difficult time, and we're going to call out any type of hateful rhetoric.

Q And so, does the administration think that police force or police presence we've seen so far is acceptable?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, as far as police presence, that's up to the colleges and the universities. That's for them to decide. And we have to be able to allow Americans to peacefully protest within the law. That is important, and that's what the President wants to see.

I can't comment on every case. I can't comment on everything that we're seeing out there.

What I can speak to is more broadly and what we want to see and what we've called out.

Q If I can shift gears real quick.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q I know there was discussion -- the President himself also referenced the idea -- of an immigration-related executive order. Is there any update on that front?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, and I've said this many times before, we believe the bipartisan proposal that came out of the Senate that Republicans rejected because of the former President saying that it hurts him politically, helps the President and not himself -- not Donald Trump -- that's what we saw. That proposal -- that proposal will do the significant work needed at the border, the significant work to move forward on a broken immigration system. That's what we want to see.

In the meantime, we always said that we don't believe it is -- it -- moving with an executive action is the way to go. We want to see that proposal. But we're always going to look at all options.

I don't have a decision to be made. I don't have anything to announce. But, you know, we're going to continue to call on -- call on Republicans, call on Congress to move that Senate pro- -- that bipartisan Senate proposal forward.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. A couple of questions for you on Saudi Arabia and also on Ukraine as well.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, yeah.

Q Secretary Blinken has obviously been in Riyadh discussing the Israel-Hamas war. He's also been discussing the Abraham Accords and normalization of ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel. How confident is the U.S. that those talks can be revived?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, we're going to continue to have those diplomatic conversation. It's important to do so. We're going to -- we got to be confident. We're going to be confident that we could -- that it gets to a place where -- you know, where we -- we are -- we have -- we have a solution here.

And so, I can't go beyond that. You know, the Secretary, as you said, is in Saudi Arabia. He's going to have -- really, I -- look, the important part about what we're trying to do this week and what you're seeing Secretary Blinken, what you've heard from the readout and heard me talk about -- you read yourself the readout from the President with his call to Prime Minister Netanyahu -- is to get to this hostage deal.

We got to get to this hostage deal so we can get to a ceasefire, get that all-important -- continue to get that humanitarian aid into Gaza. We know the situation in Gaza is dire. And they also had a conversation about the Rafah operations.

And so, that is really the focus here. That is the significant focus. It is important to get to that deal.

Q The U.S. also said that it's preparing -- preparing to offer a security package to Saudi. What would that entail?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything to share on that.

Q Okay. On Ukraine. Ukraine has lost more ground in the last couple of days as it awaits U.S. aid to get there. Is there any updates on the -- the state of those shipments?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, the aid into Ukraine is -- is ongoing. They have been receiving that security assistance. I'm going to be really mindful here because there are operational security that I want to be careful. And what we hope is it gets to the frontlines so that Ukraine could def- -- continue to defend itself.

And, like you said, they have lost ground. And so, we're hoping to get that security aid to -- to the brave pe- -- to the brave people in Ukraine. And so, look, it's ongoing. That aid is getting into -- into Ukraine. I want to be really, really mindful on speaking to operational security from here, from the podium. I would refer you to Department of Defense for anything further.

Okay. Go ahead, Gerren.

Q Thanks, Karine. First on, as you mentioned, the Vice President kicked off her Economic Opportunity Tour today in Atlanta, which is a majority Black city. Next week, she'll be in Detroit, another majority Black city. It seems like the administration is trying to reach Black Americans, in particular, as it relates to the economy.

Data suggests that Black Americans feel economically burdened and are not aware of some of the work that the administration has done. According to an Economist/YouGov poll, only 22 percent of Black Americans feel they are economically -- they feel like they're not economically better off than they were a year ago.

Does the White House fe- -- believe that this tour or hope that this tour will help change perceptions --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- amongst Black Americans as it relates to the economy?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, a couple of things. It's -- I think Weijia asked me this question, but a more broader sense of how people are feeling about the economy.

And we are very -- we think it's very important, the Biden-Harris administration, to go out there and to talk directly to the American people. We believe that if they hear from us, they will know exactly what we've been doing and how we've been delivering.

But we also understand that people are still feeling that prices are too high. They feel that the economy is not working for them. And so, we're going to lay out what we've done this past three -- three and a half years, almost, in this administration.

And as it relates to the Black community, when the President walked in, unemployment was above 9 percent. Now it's at a record low in the Black community. Now it's at a record low at around 5 percent. That's because of the -- the work that this President has done. Black wealth jumped up by 60 percent. That's important. That's because of the work that this President has done.

But we understand, especially as it relates to the Black community, housing is important. We understand that prices, again, are too [DEL: low :DEL] [high]. And so, we're going to do the work in the Black community, yes, but also for all communities.

And so, having that conversation -- and we believe this tour that the Vice President is going to do is -- is important.

But we're -- we're going to speak to all communities, Black communities and every other community out there, who have felt -- who have felt what the pandemic has done and what the high -- the high inflation that came after Russia's war into Ukraine.

And so, we're going to continue to do the work, whether it's, you know, talking about junk fees; lowering prescription drug costs, which we've been able to do -- continuing to do that, healthcare costs more broadly. This is incredibly important to this President.

Q And just one more question.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Sure.

Q The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace has a study that came out a few days ago. Amongst a study of Black Americans, 45 percent feel a connection to Palestinians, which aligns with reporting and data that suggests that Black Americans see a similarity between their historical subjugation and what the Palestinians are experiencing.

What is the White House's message to Black Americans who have distinctly supported this President and feel like his policies go against what they believe morally and see this connection to what's happening to Palestinians?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah. And it's the message that we have said to Arab Americans, Palestinian Americans, Muslim Americans, and many Americans here who -- who are looking at this moment and it is incredibly painful. We understand. This is a painful moment for many. And that's why White House officials, including this President, has had many conversations with communities, leaders of those communities to talk about -- to hear from them, to listen to them, and to talk about how to move forward.

And it is also why it is so important that the President spoke to the Prime Minister of Israel yesterday. That is also why it's important that we see the Secretary -- Secretary Blinken in the region this week to talk about how do we get to a hostage deal that will lead -- getting Americans home, getting hostages home to their loved ones -- but to also lead to a ceasefire.

We understand how important it is, and we get -- we get that the dire humanitarian aid -- that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire. That's why we've done an uptick and spoken -- direct conversations -- with the Israeli government on what we can do to put -- to get more aid in -- into Gaza. And so, that's what we're seeing.

And so, we got to get that hostage deal. We do.

Go ahead.

Q Thank you, Karine. I wanted to see if you could just elaborate on how the President is taking in some of the scenes from college campuses around the country. He doesn't have any public events on his schedule today. Is he watching some of the coverage? What's his reaction been?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, I can tell you, the President is -- like he does every day, is having meetings with his senior advisors, with his team here on an array of issues. I just mentioned that he's going to have conversations with leaders in -- in the Middle East region to talk about this hostage deal, to make sure that we get this done, get Americans home -- hostages home, more broadly -- and make sure we get to a ceasefire. That is something that is incredibly important that, you know, Americans want to see.

As you're talking about the -- the protesters, they want to see this war end.

And that's what the President wants to see: it get to a ceasefire. And so, he's focused on that. That's his focus.

I can't -- I can't speak to him catching any of what's happening on TV, but I can speak to the importance of the meetings that he's having and these two head-of-state calls that he's going to have this afternoon.

Q Last week, House Speaker Mike Johnson visited Columbia and said that after that visit he was going to be calling President Biden to discuss potential response, even the potential for a role for the National Guard. Did that conversation happen? And has the President weighed --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, look --

Q -- in on that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- I would refer you to the Speaker. I don't have a -- a call to speak to.

As it relates to the National Guard, I've been asked this question --

Q Did -- did that call happen?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have a --

Q Did they have a conversation?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have a call to -- to speak to.

Q Okay.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What I can say is that, as it relates to the National Guard, that is something that is under the jurisdiction of governors.

And I know, if it wasn't last week -- I believe it was last week, actually, Governor Hochul spoke to that as it relates specifically to what's happening in New York. And so, I would refer you to -- to her office.

But National Guards, that's not under our jurisdiction; that's under governors.

Q And military aid for Israel. There is a May 8 th deadline for the Biden administration to certify that Israel is in compliance with international humanitarian law. Several bureaus within the State Department have reportedly raised serious concerns over what they call Israel's noncompliance. How is the President planning to make this decision? What meetings is he taking? What information is he evaluating? And when do you expect him to make a decision?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I will say this: In that conversation that the Prime -- that -- that he had with the Prime Minister, he continued to -- to say that -- give the commitment that Israel's security is ironclad -- our commitment to Israel's security is ironclad. That will continue, and that is a commitment that the President has.

I'm not going to speak to a May [DEL: 6 th :DEL] [8 th] deadline. I'm -- that's not something I'm going to do at this time.

But, look, that -- the President has been very clear. As it relates to making sure that -- you know, that Israel conduct their operations in Gaza, to make sure that we're protecting innocent Palestinian lives, that -- two things could happen. Right? Two things can be true, which is making sure that Israel's security is ironclad. We saw what happened with Iran very recently. They live in a -- in a neighborhood that is -- that is tough, and they continue to -- they will continue to need that support.

So, two things can be true. We can give that commitment to the iron- -- ironclad commitment but also have those conversations with Israel about making sure that they conduct their operations in Gaza to make sure that we're protecting -- we're protecting innocent Palestinians.

Q But since the President's last called with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Congress --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Which was yesterday.

Q -- Congress -- well, but between the call two weeks ago or three weeks ago --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- and the call yesterday, Congress has newly authorized about $16 billion --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yep.

Q -- in additional military aid. Did President Biden communicate what it would take for the U.S. to begin dispersing some of that aid? Progressives have urged him to place conditions on it or to use it as leverage over Israel.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I've been very clear. Two things could be true. We're going to have the ir- -- give our commitment to -- to Israel's security -- that is ironclad -- and also have those conversation with Israel about making sure that how they conduct their operations in Gaza protects innocent Palestinian lives, hence the conversation about Rafah -- the Rafah operations -- right? -- the two virtual calls that Jake Sullivan, our National Security Advisor, has led. And we're going to continue to have those conversations.

It is important. It is important that we protect Palestinian lives -- innocent Palestinian lives. As Israel continues to defend itself, it is important that they are able to do that, but we have to make sure that, also, in those conversations, that they conduct their operations in a way that innocent Palestinian lives are -- are happening.

I don't have anything beyond that. We've been consistent about that. I know Jake Sullivan spoke to this just last week when he was at the podium.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. Two topics, if I can. First, right before we came out here, there were reports of a shooting in Charlotte, North Carolina, involving law enforcement officials. Were you guys aware of that? Has the President --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No. No, that's -- that's actually the first time I'm hearing about that.

Q Okay.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Obviously, I don't -- want to be really mindful, since I don't have all the information. I'll certainly look into that and see -- and see what's going on there.

You know, police officer, law enforcement officers put their lives at risk every day. And -- and so, you know, that is -- if that is indeed true, it is very sad news.

And we also know gun violence is an epidemic in this country. That's why the President is doing everything that he can to make sure that we deal with this epidemic. And by -- as you know, signing two dozen executive orders, starting an -- an anti-gun violence White House office -- the first ever -- and passing the bipartisan -- a bipartisan legislation to deal with this.

We need to do more. We need to do a lot more, and we're going to continue to ask Congress to do so.

Q And then second topic. The Affordable Connectivity Program runs out of funding this week. What is the White House plan to get this renewed? Are there conversations about trying to get this included in the FAA reauthorization?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I got a couple things that I do want to say about that. Despite repeated calls with -- from President Biden, congressional Republicans have not extended the Affordable Connectivity Program. This essential program has helped millions of Americans participate in school and work, access healthcare, and stay connected with their loved ones and more.

We announced earlier this month that we are encouraging providers to take steps to keep their consumers connected at this crucial time by offering low-cost, no-cost plans.

We'll continue to push congressional Republicans to take action. And anything else to that I will refer you to FCC.

Q Right. But do you see it potentially ending up with the FAA reauthor- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: FCC?

Q -- this is, like, the last big bill that could be --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, look, we are con- -- we contin- -- continue to call on -- obviously, continue to call on -- on Congress to act here and take action. And so, that's what we're going to continue to do.

But obviously, we've taken some steps so that consumers can protect themselves.

Go ahead, Danny.

Q Thanks, Karine. Just on Rafah. The readout yesterday from the call with Netanyahu said that the President had "reiterated his clear position," but it didn't say what it was. Can I just -- can you just clarify to us exactly what the position still is at this moment? Is this --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I mean, it hasn't changed, Danny. We have concerns about a major military operations in Rafah. We've been very clear. There are more than 1 million Palestinians in Rafah, and we believe that they need to be protected. Whatever operation they -- they want to move forward when -- and we understand there are Hamas operators in the region. And we understand that there are concerns there.

And so, we have shared our -- our concerns with that. And we believe that they're going to take our concerns into account.

And we're going to continue to have those conversations. There were two virtual meetings that were led by Jake Sullivan, as I mentioned before.

But our position hasn't changed.

Q And is the position that you have concerns about that or that -- that the President would oppose an operation without a credible --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We have concerns. We have concerns about that. And we want to talk and discuss and continue having those conversations about what their potential plan might look like.

And we believe they're going to -- we're going to have further discussions and they're going to certainly take our concerns into account.

And so, I'll just leave it there.

Q And you haven't had the credible plan yet?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We have not seen a credible plan yet.

Go ahead.

Q Thank you so much. For the first time in public, the President urged Russia to release Alsu Kurma- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Sorry, I'm going to say that again. Alsu --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Alsu -- mm-hmm.

Q -- Alsu Kurmasheva --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- from detention in Russia. What prompted him to make this mention in public? And when will the administration declare her wrongfully detained?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, and you heard from the President, obviously. He talked about it during the White House Correspondents' Dinner. He believed it was an opportunity, speaking in front of all of you, to talk about what journalists have to go through and how brave it is for journalists to go out there and deliver -- really deliver the news and reporting to -- to the public. And it is important to lift that up. It is important to speak to that.

We believe -- and I've said this many times from this podium -- journalism is not a crime. It is not a crime. It is not a crime here. It's not a crime there, and it is not a crime anywhere.

And so, as it relates to her designation, that is something that the State Department has spoken about. And so -- and so, we're going to just leave that to the State Department.

Obviously, we've shared our concerns about her detention. And so, I would refer you -- refer you to them. And the State Department has -- has shared their concerns about their -- their -- her detention.

But it is a designation that the State Department makes.

Q Got it.

So, today, we heard China's government denying an accusation made by Secretary of State Blinken that they were seeking to interfere in the U.S. election. Does the White House share this concern? And what are you doing to combat it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, it -- the -- the Secretary is speaking on behalf of this administration. So, obviously, we share those concerns. But -- but we're going to continue to have those diplomatic conversation.

The Secretary, you know, is -- delivered a message there, and I just don't have anything beyond that.

Q And then, finally, you just mentioned two head-of-state calls this afternoon.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yep.

Q Who are they? Is one of them perhaps President Erdoğan, and -- -- are they still talking about a possible meeting?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything to share. I thought you were -- didn't you hear what I said about who he's -- he's going to be calling?

Q No, who is it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The -- the Amir -- he's going to call the Amir and Egypt. Those are the two he's going to call today.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I know you're trying to get me to say about Erdoğan. I don't have anything to share on that.

Go ahead.

Q Karine, good afternoon. By all accounts, the FAFSA rollout was a mess -- the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. College -- our high school seniors depend on that for financial aid for college. Decision day is May 1 st. Who does the President blame for the mess?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Say that one more time. I'm sorry.

Q Who does the President blame?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: For --

Q For the FAFSA mess -- the Free Application for Federal Student Aid -- out of the Department of Education.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, we -- we take that very seriously. Obviously, our goal has been to make it easier for very -- you know, Americans who need that relief, as they're thinking about furthering their education and getting that college education.

And so, we want to make sure that it's easier for them to be able to get through that process to get that much-needed aid.

As it relates to FAFSA, we have -- we have said, yes, the process has not gone smoothly, and we're doing everything that we can to make it go smoother. We've been -- I know the Department of Education have put processes in place to make sure that that happens. And that's what we want to see.

We do not want to make it more difficult for Americans to get that much-needed aid. We want to make it easier. That's one of the reasons the President has talked about, you know, student debt relief, giving Americans a little bit of breathing room.

Now, obviously, this is on the other side of that. We want to make sure that Americans do have -- has -- have an easier process in getting that done.

Q Does the President still have confidence in the leadership at the Education Department after all this?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The President has confidence in his Education Department.

Q And is he aware that applications -- FAFSA applications are down some 30 percent --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We understand.

Q -- impacting minority --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We unders- --

Q -- and low-income students?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We understand the impact. That's why we're doing everything that we can, the Department of Education is doing everything they ca- -- we can to rectify that issue. And we have.

Go ahead. Go ahead, Jon.

Q Thanks, Karine. As a result of those ongoing campus protests in the past few days, the main commencement at USC, the University of Southern California, has been canceled. Just today, final exams have been moved at GW Law School. What's your reaction to the repercussions of these protests and how they have impacted students on these two campuses, but also, likely, all across the country at both private and public universities?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, when it comes to decisions about commencements, decisions that universities and colleges are making, that's really up to them to make. That is a decision that they have to decide what's right for their student body, what's right for their community, and that is on them. So, want to be very clear about that.

As it relates to commencement -- and I've said this before -- look, you know, it is a special day. It is a very special day for students. The President is looking forward to speaking to Morehouse University. He's going to be at West Point later this month.

That's something that he -- that's important to him. And he knows how -- how -- what families and students are feeling at this time to wanting to celebrate that moment, especially as they're thinking about their last four years and moving -- and moving forward. And so -- so, he's looking forward to celebrating with them.

We continue to believe -- and I've said this multiple times already today -- is that peaceful -- peacefully protest, Americans should have the right to do so -- to peacefully protest. Whether it's at a commencement or at their school or anywhere in this country, it has to be done where we do not have hateful rhetoric, violent rhetoric.

We cannot -- we not -- we got to condemn those. That should not be allowed in this country anywhere. And so, we're going to be consistent on that. We're going to be -- we have been about condemning hateful rhetoric, hateful vio- -- hate has no place -- should have no place in America.

But those are decisions that are made by colleges and universities, their leadership.

Go ahead, Phil.

Q Thank you. Two topics quickly. When the President expanded the definition of Title IX to include gender identity, a handful of states, including Florida, announced that they were directing their public school systems to ignore that policy directive. First, what's the White House's response to their objections? And then, second, should we expect the administration to challenge state policies or laws that distinguish between biological males and females in high school sports?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I'm -- there's a lot of litigations happening, so I need to be really careful.

So, I'll just say that every student deserves a right to feel safe in school. That's what -- that's what it should be all about: strengthening and restoring vital protections that the previous administration got rid of, when you think about the Title IX updates that you've seen from this administration.

And so, look, I don't have much more to share outside of that. The Department of Education has more information on that specific -- what -- the new announcements that we've made. But every student deserves to -- the right to feel safe. And I'm just going to leave it there.

Q And then a second topic. Last week, a Secret Service agent who was assigned to Vice President Harris's detail was removed from her duties after reportedly attacking the commanding agent in charge. Was the President made aware of that incident? And are there any steps that are being taken to ensure that the vetting is absolutely perfect --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- so that someone in that important of a detail --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- .

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I have to be really mindful and careful. That's something for Secret Service to speak to. I can't -- I can't go beyond that. I know --

Q Secret Ser- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: And I know that they -- they put out a statement, and I believe, yes, the President is aware.

Q Great. Thank you.

Q Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. Yeah. All right. Okay.

Go ahead, Monica.

Q Karine, there are two pieces of legislation that have been introduced that would take steps to counter antisemitism on college campuses and more broadly. Has the White House made a determination about which one it would support --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- or would both --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I'm aware of those two pieces of legislation. Obviously, the President condemns antisemitism.

I don't want to get ahead of -- of our Office of Leg Affairs here. So, need to discuss with -- about those two pi- -- particular pieces of legislation.

Obviously, we've been very clear: We condemn antisemitism. We're going to continue to do that. It has no place. It is hate speech. And so, we're going to continue to do that. I want to be really mindful about getting ahead of -- of that.

Q Would the White House support having antisemitism monitors on college campuses?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I -- I need to be super mindful. As you know, we have -- we put out a strategic plan here on dealing with antisemitism because we understand that it has risen here in this country and we have to do everything we can to fight hate.

And so, we put a -- together a comprehensive plan. I just want to be mindful. I have not spoken to anybody about these two particular legislation. Don't want to get ahead of the team here.

But the President has been very clear -- very, very clear. I've said it multiple times throughout this pris- -- briefing that we condemn antisemitism and any form of hate.

Q Separately, what is the White House's backup plan for the President's Cancer Moonshot Initiative, since that funding appears not to have been replenished by Congress? Is the plan to go to the --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- private sector for help?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, Cancer Moonshot obviously is --is so important to not just the President, but the First Lady. It is a -- a -- it is an issue that is incredibly personal to them. And we want to make sure that we get to a place that, you know, cancer no longer is an issue in this country.

Don't have anything beyond -- beyond that. Don't have anything to lay out on what the next steps are, but it is a priority for this administration.

All right. Thanks, everybody.

Oh, Michael, go ahead. Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. Back on the ICC.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I know I was going to call on you. I forgot.

Q I'm just wondering how concerned is the admin- -- the ICC.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q I'm just wondering, how concerned is the administration that any potential charges against Israeli officials could maybe jeopardize the ceasefire talks?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I -- I'm not going to go beyond with what I've said. We don't believe the ICC has the jurisdiction. We don't support this investigation. And I'm just going to have to leave it there for now.

Thanks, Michael.

Q Thanks, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right. Bye, everybody.

Q Thank you.

3:28 P.M. EDT

April 30, 2024

Today, President Biden signed a National Security Memorandum to secure and enhance the resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure. The NSM will replace a decade-old presidential policy document on critical infrastructure protection and launch a comprehensive effort to protect U.S. infrastructure against all threats and hazards, current and future.

Thanks to the President's Investing in America Agenda, as well as the emergence of new technologies like artificial intelligence, America has a historic opportunity to build for the future. Good investments require taking steps to manage risk, and for our infrastructure, that means building in resilience to all hazards upfront and by design. Through the President's Investing in America Agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration has announced $448 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding – including over 51,000 infrastructure projects – and spurred $825 billion in private sector investment in industries including clean power, biomanufacturing, and clean energy manufacturing. Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law alone, the President has delivered $50 billion for infrastructure resilience specifically, including $8.7 billion from the PROTECT program to improve the resilience of transportation infrastructure and $4.5 billion through FEMA to fortify a range of infrastructure against

hazards. Through this $50 billion in resilience funding, the Administration has launched over 4,000 infrastructure resilience projects nationwide.

The NSM will help ensure U.S. critical infrastructure can provide the Nation a strong and innovative economy, protect American families, and enhance our collective resilience to disasters before they happen – strengthening the nation for generations to come. This NSM specifically:

Empowers the Department of Homeland Security to lead the whole-of-government effort to secure U.S. critical infrastructure, with the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency acting as the National Coordinator for Security and Resilience. The Secretary of Homeland Security will be required to submit to the President a biennial National Risk Management Plan that summarizes U.S. government efforts to manage risk to the Nation's critical infrastructure.

Directs the U.S. Intelligence Community, consistent with the goals outlined in the 2023 National Intelligence Strategy, to collect, produce and share intelligence and information with Federal departments and agencies, State and local partners, and the owners and operators of critical infrastructure. The NSM recognizes private sector owners and operators of critical infrastructure are often our first line of defense against adversaries who target the Nation's most critical assets and systems.

Reaffirms the designation of 16 critical infrastructure sectors and a federal department or agency as the Sector Risk Management Agency for each sector. SRMAs have the day-to-day relationships and sector specific expertise to lead risk management and coordination within the designated sectors. The named SRMAs for each sector can be found below.

Elevates the importance of minimum security and resilience requirements within and across critical infrastructure sectors, consistent with the National Cyber Strategy , which recognizes the limits of a voluntary approach to risk management in the current threat environment.

The Nation faces an era of strategic competition in which nation-state actors will continue to target American critical infrastructure – and tolerate or enable malicious activity conducted by non-state actors. In the event of crisis or conflict, America's adversaries may attempt to compromise our critical infrastructure to undermine the will of the American public and impede the functioning of the economy and projection of U.S. military power abroad. Resilience, particularly for our most sensitive assets and systems, is the cornerstone of homeland defense and security.

Further, the growing impact of climate change, including changes to the frequency and intensity of natural hazards, as well as supply chain shocks and the potential for instability, conflict, or mass displacement, places a strain on the infrastructure that Americans depend upon for their lives and livelihoods. This NSM seeks to fulfill the U.S. government's sacred obligation to the American people to protect our infrastructure and the prosperity and security of the Nation.

National Security Memorandum

2023 National Intelligence Strategy

Sector Risk Management Agencies

National Coordinator's Office

Department of Homeland Security, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency

Chemical SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Commercial Facilities SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Communications SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Critical Manufacturing SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Dams SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Defense Industrial Base SRMA:

Department of Defense

Emergency Services SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Energy SRMA:

Department of Energy

Financial Services SRMA:

Department of the Treasury

Food and Agriculture SRMAs:

Co-Sector Risk Management Agencies: U.S. Department of Agriculture and Department of Health and Human Services

Government Services and Facilities SRMAs:

Department of Homeland Security and General Services Administration

Healthcare and Public Health SRMA:

Department of Health and Human Services

Information Technology SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Nuclear Reactors, Materials, and Waste SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Transportation Systems SRMAs: Department of Homeland Security and Department of Transportation

Water and Wastewater Systems SRMA:

Environmental Protection Agency

April 30, 2024

President Biden's Investing in America agenda is making once-in-a-generation investments in America's infrastructure and our clean energy future that are creating good-paying and union jobs, establishing and growing new industries in the United States, tackling the climate crisis, and helping lower costs for families.

To deploy these investments, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken aggressive action to accelerate project permitting and environmental reviews. The Administration has developed and is currently executing a Permitting Action Plan ; secured $1 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act to improve permitting; passed important reforms in the 2023 Fiscal Responsibility Act that made commonsense changes to the environmental review process, including setting deadlines for completion of reviews and making documents more readable by limiting their length; and took a number of administrative actions to simplify and accelerate the permitting process. By taking these actions, the Administration is ensuring that industry can move forward with key investments and projects,

including building out clean energy and transmission, while also being responsible stewards of the environment and protecting communities.

The Administration's focus on reforming federal permitting has led to real results. Thanks to President Biden's leadership, the time to complete the most extensive form of environmental review is already coming down: agencies are completing a higher proportion of environmental impact statements in under two years than under the previous Administration. The Biden-Harris Administration is also completing environmental assessments for projects faster than the previous Administration – for example, data from the Department of Transportation show that in the first three years, the Biden-Harris Administration completed environmental assessments in an average of 9.6 months compared to 15.4 months for the same number of projects during the Trump Administration.

The Biden-Harris Administration is also expanding the use of categorical exclusions, the fastest form of environmental review, bringing review timelines down from months or years to a matter of weeks for projects that have minimal environmental impacts. For example, over 99.5% of federal highway projects were covered by categorical exclusions in fiscal year 2022, meaning the vast majority of projects are moving forward using these faster reviews. The Administration has also expanded the use of categorical exclusions to expedite permitting in key sectors such as EV charging, broadband, CHIPS manufacturing, and clean energy projects.

In addition, the Biden-Harris Administration has surpassed a major renewable energy permitting goal more than 18 months ahead of schedule, with the Department of the Interior having permitted more than 25 gigawatts of clean energy projects on public lands well before a 2025 target date. DOI has also already approved the nation's first 10 gigawatts of large-scale offshore wind projects, in support of the President's goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030.

The Administration is continuing to develop new tools to expedite permitting of critical infrastructure, semiconductor manufacturing, and clean energy projects. Today the White House Council on Environmental Quality is finalizing the Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule, which simplifies and modernizes the federal environmental review process while fully implementing the new efficiencies Congress passed in the Fiscal Responsibility Act.

The actions outlined below reflect the all-of-government effort the Biden-Harris Administration has taken to accelerate federal permitting across seven key sectors – offshore wind, onshore renewables, transmission, transportation, semiconductors, broadband, and critical minerals – while ensuring strong environmental protections and robust community engagement.

Finalizing the Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule

Modernizing federal environmental reviews. The Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule fully implements new efficiencies in agency environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act that the Administration negotiated on a bipartisan basis and secured in the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023. These efficiencies include setting clear one- and two- year deadlines for agencies to complete environmental reviews, requiring a lead agency and setting specific expectations for lead and cooperating agencies, and creating a unified and coordinated federal review process. The rule also provides agencies with other new and faster tools to improve the efficiency and effectiveness

of environmental reviews. Together, these reforms will help accelerate America's clean energy future, rebuild our nation's infrastructure, strengthen our nation's energy security, and deliver on the President's Investing in America agenda.

Improve efficiency and speed: The rule accelerates the deployment of clean energy, transmission, clean water, broadband, semiconductor manufacturing, and other crucial infrastructure by setting clear environmental review deadlines and page limits as directed by the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Additional efficiencies include establishing new and more flexible methods for agencies to establish categorical exclusions to speed up projects without significant adverse effects -- from geothermal exploration to vehicle charging infrastructure installation -- and enabling lower levels of environmental review to accelerate approvals when a project sponsor or agency has opted to mitigate the effects of the project.

Addressing multiple priorities simultaneously rather than consecutively: Consistent with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, the rule expands the use of programmatic environmental reviews, which allow agencies to review the environmental impacts of categories of projects to speed up approvals for specific projects. This will help speed the build-out of everything from semiconductor manufacturing to clean energy projects. The rule also promotes the use of shared environmental analysis to discourage duplication of effort.

Advance stronger environmental outcomes: The rule addresses climate change, protects public health, and encourages better environmental outcomes by clarifying that agencies should consider climate change effects in environmental reviews and encourage identification of reasonable alternatives that will mitigate climate impacts. These provisions will help to ensure approvals are not only timely, but durable, because when environmental reviews are done right the first time, they won't have to be redone later on and are less likely to face successful legal challenges.

Promote meaningful public input and best practices: The rule helps ensure projects are built smart from the start by promoting early and meaningful engagement with communities, fostering community buy-in, reducing or avoiding conflict, and improving project design. The rule helps ensure projects are on a strong legal footing incorporating longstanding case law and best practices for collaboration and coordination across agencies, helping ensure projects move forward efficiently and with more certainty to deliver benefits to communities, workers, and project developers. Consistent with current best practices, it also directs agencies to consider environmental justice.

Reducing Bottlenecks Across Seven Key Sectors and Getting Results with Projects

Accelerating transmission projects. Last week, the Biden-Harris Administration finalized the Coordinated Interagency Transmission Authorizations and Permits rule that will help improve the efficiency of the federal permitting and authorization process for qualifying onshore transmission facilities. The Department of Energy CITAP program gives transmission developers a new option for a streamlined federal review process with a standard two-year schedule that can cut prior timeframes in half for

the most complex environmental reviews. For projects that use existing transmission rights-of-way, such as advanced reconductoring or siting solar or storage projects on previously developed areas, last week the DOE also announced new categorical exclusions, the most expedited form of environmental reviews, which enables speedier DOE reviews for projects that have minimal impact on the environment and public health. These recent steps build on recent project-specific progress, such as:

SunZia Southwest Transmission Project: This project will transport up to 4,500 megawatts of primarily renewable energy from New Mexico to markets in Arizona and California. After prior reviews and changes to the project route, the Bureau of Land Management completed the review for the permitted route in less than two years from notice of intent to record of decision, announcing approval in May 2023.

Speeding up renewable energy development on federal lands. In April, DOI finalized a rule that facilitates efficient and responsible renewable energy development by reducing fees for solar and wind projects on public lands by 80 percent--with additional incentives for use of project labor agreements and American-made materials. The rule also streamlines the process for the BLM to review applications in priority areas and delivers greater predictability for industry on how the BLM will issue and manage future leases for solar and wind development. This rule complements the BLM's ongoing efforts to update the Western Solar Plan through a Utility-Scale Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement

, with the goal of further streamlining the framework for siting solar energy projects. Also in April, the BLM adopted categorical exclusions

from the U.S. Forest Service and Department of the Navy to expedite the review and approval of geothermal energy exploration on public lands. These actions will help clean energy projects get permitted more quickly. The BLM continues to track progress through an online dashboard

. In addition to this work, several projects are moving forward including:

Dry Lake East Energy Center Solar Project: Earlier this month, the BLM announced approval of this solar and storage project in the Las Vegas region designed to generate up to 200 megawatts of clean electricity for the Nevada grid. BLM started an environmental assessment in 2023 and the project was approved a year later in 2024.

Cape Station Exploration Drilling Geothermal Energy Project: Cape Station is a geothermal energy project set to deliver 400 megawatts of carbon-free electricity in Beaver County, Utah. BLM completed the environmental assessment for the project within three months working closely with the developer, nearby communities, and state, county and local governments.

Accelerating offshore wind permitting and delivering the nation's first large-scale projects. Last week DOI announced a final rule that is expected to save offshore wind developers about $1.9 billion over 20 years by modernizing regulations for renewable energy development. DOI's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is also developing programmatic environmental impact statements for the New York Bight

and California

offshore wind lease areas, to streamline individual project reviews. Additionally, BOEM and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a joint strategy

to protect and promote the recovery of endangered North Atlantic right whales while responsibly developing offshore wind energy, and are deploying Inflation Reduction Act funding and working with industry and environmental stakeholders to advance whale detection and monitoring technologies.

These efforts will help continue a strong track record of responsible permitting progress. BOEM has already issued approvals for eight commercial-scale offshore wind projects--up from zero approved when President Biden took office. These eight project approvals total more than 10 gigawatts of offshore wind energy, enough to power nearly four million homes. South Fork Wind off New York recently finished construction, Vineyard Wind off Massachusetts has delivered its first power, and several other projects are expected to have construction milestones this year. An example project:

Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind: Under the Biden-Harris Administration, the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project completed all federal reviews and authorizations, including a record of decision from BOEM in October 2023, roughly 10 months faster than the Vineyard Wind and South Fork projects, which initiated review in 2018 under the previous Administration and did not reach approval until 2021 under this Administration.

Accelerating construction of high-speed internet projects. In March, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation extended a process for faster historic preservation reviews for communications infrastructure projects on federal lands to all such projects both on and off federal lands. This action will shorten historic preservation reviews from over a year to less than three months. In addition, in April, the Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration established and adopted a total of 36 new categorical exclusions that will unlock faster reviews for projects that do not have significant environmental effects. NTIA also developed and released apermitting and environmental mapping tool

to help grant recipients and others deploying infrastructure for high-speed Internet service to identify permit requirements and avoid potential environmental impacts. In addition, also in April, DOI issued a final rule to streamline approvals of broadband projects on BLM managed lands. Other projects are moving forward, such as:

DMCI Broadband: In October 2022 the U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded $6 million--through President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law--to DMCI broadband in Michigan to be used to deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network to connect 2,899 people, 94 farms, 56 businesses, and four educational facilities to high-speed internet in Branch and Hillsdale counties in Michigan. After being awarded funding in 2022, the environmental review and approval took less than two months.

Executing on environmental reviews for CHIPS Act-funded semiconductor fabrication plants. The Department of Commerce quickly took action, building an environmental team for the CHIPS office, which has adopted 11 categorical exclusions from the Department of Energy and initiated a programmatic environmental assessment that will enable qualifying projects to quickly move through necessary environmental approvals. An example project:

BAE Systems: In December 2023, BAE Systems Electronic Systems signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms for approximately $35 million in federal incentives under President Biden's CHIPS and Science Act to support the modernization of the company's Microelectronics Center in Nashua, New Hampshire. The project will replace aging tools and quadruple the production of chips necessary for critical defense programs. This project completed environmental review in just 31 days using a categorical exclusion.

Streamlining critical mineral permitting: Last year, the Permitting Council announced the first mining project that will receive FAST-41 coverage. FAST-41 coverage will allow critical mineral projects – which are vital to the clean energy transition – to apply for FAST-41 permitting assistance and benefit from facilitated coordination between the project sponsor, the lead agency, and the other Federal agencies that will play a cooperating role on the project's environmental review. This ensures the project has a clear timetable and coordinated approvals process. Other mining projects are moving forward, including:

Gibellini Vanadium Mine: The Gibellini Project, located in Eureka County, Nevada, will help provide the critical mineral vanadium, which is an important component in lightweight steel and has the potential to increase the life and reduce the cost of batteries when used in utility-scale wind and solar projects. This was the first primary vanadium mine to be permitted in the United States.

Accelerating and streamlining permitting for transportation projects. To expedite the environmental review of federally-funded electric vehicle charging station sites, the Department of Transportation adopted a DOE EV charging station categorical exclusion, accelerating environmental review processes for state and local governments seeking to build EV charging infrastructure. The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation also exempted most federally-funded or federally-permitted EV charging infrastructure from historic preservation reviews because it found that the effects of these activities are known and not significant. Earlier this month, DOT also announced its to encourage project sponsors to publish interactive environmental review documents that increase accessibility, transparency and use plain language. These online tools will save time and improve

the quality of documents through collaborative, real-time reviews between the public and agencies participating in a project's environmental review process. Other projects are moving forward, including:

Gateway Hudson Tunnel Project: This project, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will construct a new Hudson River Tunnel between New York and New Jersey and rehabilitate the 110-year-old rail tunnel that carries 200,000 passenger trips per day on New Jersey Transit and Amtrak along the Northeast Corridor. When the Obama Administration started the environmental review for this project it was slated to be finished in less than two years, but the previous Administration sat on the final review. The review was completed within the first five months of the Biden-Harris Administration and construction broke ground in 2023 on both sides of the Hudson River.

Investing in the Resources for Success

Thanks to President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, the Administration has had the opportunity to bring on the staff and begin development of the technology needed to execute and streamline permitting and environmental reviews.

The Administration quickly deployed additional resources to hire the Federal staff needed to achieve our permitting goals. Twelve agencies covering all seven sectors received funding to hire the necessary personnel. To date, the Permitting Council has allocated over $165 million from President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act appropriation to support federal agencies, including through staff positions that will help deliver more timely and efficient reviews and permits. Together we have increased the permitting workforce by 14%. In addition, the Permitting Council has made $5 million available to Tribal governments to support Tribal engagement in the environmental review and authorization process for FAST-41 covered projects.

Adopting new technology and tools to improve federal environmental review and permitting processes. Timely, informative environmental reviews that are guided by the best available science and help deliver positive environmental and community impacts will be improved with better technology. Yesterday, the Permitting Council announced $30 million in investments to agencies to help them complete timely environmental reviews and permits. These investments will facilitate meaningful public involvement and support agencies to better manage complex analysis and decision-making.

Promoting Stakeholder Engagement and Positive Community Outcomes

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring strong environmental protections and robust community engagement as it works to accelerate federal permitting. In line with the President's commitment to environmental justice, the Administration is working to ensure projects are built smart from the start by promoting early and meaningful engagement with communities, which fosters community buy-in, helps reduce or avoid conflict, and improves project design while protecting communities from pollution and environmental harms that can result from poor planning and decision making. Accelerating federal permitting is also crucial to advancing the President's Justice40 Initiative , which set a goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal climate, clean energy, affordable and sustainable housing, and other investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by

pollution. Some examples of the Administration's work to promote community engagement include:

Through the new Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule, agencies are directed to consider environmental justice in environmental reviews and--for the first time in the regulations, but consistent with current best practices-- the rule encourages agencies to incorporate measures to avoid or reduce disproportionate effects on communities with environmental justice concerns, including the cumulative effects of pollution. The rule also requires agencies to identify a Chief Engagement Officer that will be responsible for facilitating the agency's community engagement for environmental reviews, making federal decisions more accessible and transparent to interested communities. Additionally, the rule ensures that Tribal Nations have opportunities to meaningfully engage in the environmental review process.

Federal agencies are prioritizing community input and engagement. For example, the Bureau of Land Management has reinstated all 100 of its Resource Advisory Committees during this Administration. These local advisory committees provide invaluable support to BLM and lead to sustainable outcomes as a result of community buy-in and engagement.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation issued a Policy Statement on Indigenous Knowledge and Historic Preservation . These principles place an emphasis on respecting Indigenous Knowledge in all aspects of the agency's regulatory process and developing and maintaining a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with Tribal Nations, Native Hawaiian organizations, and other Indigenous Peoples. The policy also calls on the preservation community to ensure the appropriate amount of time and resources are dedicated to the identification, documentation, utilization, management, and safeguarding of Indigenous Knowledge, along with developing guidance to inform these activities.

April 29, 2024

When a law enforcement officer puts on that shield in the morning and heads out the door, their family members dread the phone call – the very call that came today. It's like losing a piece of your soul. To the families of those we lost: Jill and I, and all Americans, are here for you. And we will always be here for you.

We must do more to protect our law enforcement officers. That means funding them - so they have the resources they need to do their jobs and keep us safe. And it means taking additional action to combat the scourge of gun violence. Now. Leaders in Congress need to step up so that we ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, require safe storage of guns, and pass universal background checks and a national red flag law. Enough is enough.

May God Bless these fallen heroes.

April 29, 2024

On Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at 1:30 PM, as a part of the White House Initiative on Women's Health Research, First Lady Jill Biden will travel to New York, New York, where she will deliver remarks at the 2024 New York Stock Exchange Women's Health Summit to spotlight the importance of women's health research and private and public sector efforts to accelerate progress on women's health. This event will be open to pre-credentialed media with limited capacity. For interested media, please contact judy.shaw@nyse.com .

April 29, 2024

April 29, 2024

Readout of President Biden's Call with Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar

President Biden spoke today with Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar. The two leaders discussed the deal now on the table to secure the release of hostages together with an immediate and sustained ceasefire in Gaza. The President confirmed that the United States together with Egypt and Qatar would work to ensure the full implementation of its terms. He urged Amir Tamim to exert all efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas as this is now the only obstacle to an immediate ceasefire and relief for the people of Gaza. The two leaders reviewed ongoing initiatives to increase the flow of life-saving assistance to civilians in Gaza. The President thanked the Amir and his senior team for their tireless efforts to secure the release of all hostages held in Gaza. The leaders agreed to remain closely coordinated directly and through their teams over the coming days.

April 29, 2024

April 29, 2024

The Vice President will receive briefings and conduct internal meetings with staff. These meetings will be closed press.

Later in the day, the Vice President will record radio interviews for The Big Tigger Morning Show and DeDe in the Morning.

# # #

April 29, 2024

Last week, the Biden-Harris Administration rolled out several key rules to support consumers, workers, and caregivers.

On Monday, the Department of Health and Human Services fulfilled the promise President Biden made in his 2022 State of the Union address to improve the safety and quality of care in federally-funded nursing homes. These rules will also support family caregivers, boost compensation and job quality for care workers, and expand and improve care options. The Administration also followed through on its commitment to home and community-based care, with a new Medicaid Access rule that will ensure 80% of spending is on direct care workers' wages. The Vice President announced these rules at a roundtable with care workers in Wisconsin.

On Tuesday, the Federal Trade Commission finalized a ban on noncompete agreements, which is expected to increase earnings for the average worker by more than $500 a year and spur the creation of 8,500 additional new businesses every year.

In addition, the Labor Department finalized a new rule raising the threshold for overtime pay – ensuring that more workers who earn less than $58,656 a year have the right to overtime protections and receive the pay they deserve.

The Labor Department also finalized a new rule that could increase savings for middle class families by 20% by ensuring that savers receive retirement advice in their best interest, rather than in the interest of retirement professionals.

On Wednesday, the Department of Transportation mandated that airlines provide automatic cash refunds to passengers who experience cancellations or significant delays, and required airlines and ticket agents show the price of fees for checked bags, seats, and flight changes or cancellations upfront, which will save consumers half a billion in fees. The White House also convened state legislative leaders to discuss state-level actions to address junk fees, building on the Biden-Harris Administration's unprecedented efforts to crack down on junk fees across the economy to lower costs for Americans.

On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission voted to reinstate net neutrality following through on encouragement from the President's Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American Economy.

Leaders from across the country praised this week's announcements. Here's what they are saying:

FTC Announces Rule Banning Noncompete Agreements

Organizations and Labor Unions

AFL-CIO: "Noncompete agreements trap workers from finding better jobs, drive down wages, and stifle competition. We commend the FTC and Lina Khan for finalizing a strong rule to ban these exploitative practices and level the playing field for American workers." [tweet , 4/23/24]

SEIU: "Did you hear today's big news? Noncompetes -- which hold workers, especially Black, brown, and women workers back -- have been banned by the FTC!" [tweet – 4/23/24]

Small Business Majority: "The Federal Trade Commission's final rule banning non-compete agreements is a victory for the U.S. economy because it will help fuel small business growth. In fact, Small Business Majority's research revealed that more than 33 percent of small business owners were prevented from hiring an employee due to a non-compete agreement, and nearly 50 percent said that they have been subject to a non-compete agreement that prevented them from starting or growing a business of their own…. Small businesses overwhelmingly want a level playing field, and non-competes don't deliver because they are a threat to the free, fair and open competition that is essential to a thriving and equitable economy. That's why more than 400 small businesses and small business organizations previously signed our letter urging the FTC to enact its proposed rule to ban non-compete agreements, and why we joined a coalition of small business advocates in signing a letter of support for the

rule. Now, we will look forward to implementation of the new non-compete prohibition." [Statement , 4/23/24]

American Economic Liberties Project: "The FTC's final rule is a clear-cut win for American workers and entrepreneurs. For too long, corporations have used these restrictive clauses to block millions of working people from changing jobs, negotiating for better pay, or starting a new business. But after listening to the comments of thousands of entrepreneurs and workers of all income levels across industries on the proposed rule, the FTC has done the right thing and used their authority to ban these agreements. We're thrilled to see this rule finalized, which won't just improve working conditions and boost wages by more than $400 billion, but will catalyze innovation as millions of Americans are freed to bring their ideas to life and start their own business." [Statement , 4/23/24]

Restaurant Opportunities Centers United: "Restaurant workers have risked their own lives and the health of their family so that people could eat or bring food to their tables. There are other employers that see how important our job is, and they are hiring for higher wages and better benefits. Yet, they couldn't just leave their job because of the non-compete terms. The FTC proposed rule on banning non-compete terms would help millions of restaurant workers who may be in a similar bind; it would allow them to grow and increase their wages to support themselves and their loved ones. And they would no longer suffer from reduced wages and loss of professional growth opportunities." [Statement , 4/23/24]

Public Citizen: "The pervasive use of non-compete clauses limits worker mobility, drives down wages, keeps Americans from pursuing entrepreneurial dreams and creating new businesses, causes more concentrated markets, and keeps workers stuck in unsafe or hostile workplaces. Non-compete clauses are both an unfair method of competition and aggressively harmful to regular people. The FTC was right to tackle this issue and to finalize a strong rule." [Statement , 04/23/24]

Farm Action: "FTC's final rule removes a key mechanism of exploitation and corporate control over U.S. workers. Noncompete clauses prevent workers from freely switching jobs, enabling corporations to hold workers hostage. This abusive practice leaves workers vulnerable to low wages and unsafe working conditions, and we applaud FTC for taking this bold action." [Statement , 04/23/24]

Economic Security Project: "Today's milestone ushers in a new era of pro-worker antitrust enforcement, guaranteeing that employers can no longer exploit workers by limiting their future job prospects. Whether you're a sandwich artist, a doctor, or a new CEO, the FTC's ban on non-compete agreements ensures every worker can freely choose who they want to work for without constraint." [Statement , 4/23/24]

Elected Officials

Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren: "Banning noncompetes is life-changing for millions of workers. This action will allow people to switch jobs or start a business, boosting wages, spurring innovation & lowering health care costs. Massachusetts workers stand to gain $2 billion in higher pay. A big Biden win!" [Tweet , 04/23/24]

Virginia Senator Tim Kaine: "If we want to continue to grow our economy, we must protect and empower American workers. I'm glad the Federal Trade Commission is taking this step to ban non-compete agreements, which stifle wage growth, hinder job mobility, and make it harder for businesses to hire talent. This will expand job opportunities for more Americans, increase wages, promote innovation, and support our country's economic growth." [Statement , 04/23/24]

Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy: "Non-compete agreements are terrible for workers and our economy – they suppress wages, stifle innovation, and undermine competition. Today's action by the FTC puts power back into the hands of workers and budding entrepreneurs. Congress should pass our bipartisan legislation to ensure employers can never again use non-competes to protect their own interests at the expense of fair wages and economic growth." [Statement , 04/23/24]

Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley: "HUGE: The @FTC just voted to BAN noncompetes! This is a big win for workers--ending an era of companies abusing noncompete agreements to keep wages lower and growth options limited for working people." [Tweet , 04/24/24]

Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown: "This is big. Corporations use noncompete agreements to prevent workers from leaving for jobs with better pay & benefits. They're exploitative, and I've been pushing the @FTC to ban them for years. Today is a great day for worker freedom. [Tweet , 04/23/24]

Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman: ".@POTUS has delivered another massive W for working people. ✅Noncompete clauses prevent too many workers from getting a new job with better pay + benefits. Today, @FTC made them ILLEGAL." [Tweet , 04/23/24]

Minnesota Senator Tina Smith: "Non-compete agreements are used by employers to force workers to stay with their companies. It hurts workers, stifles competition and makes our economy less dynamic. This rule empowers American workers and will build a stronger economy for millions of families." [Tweet , 04/24/24]

Hawaii Senator Brian Schatz: "Eliminating non-compete agreements gives American workers more freedom and promotes competition within our economy. It's absolutely the right thing to do, and @FTC has the full authority to do it." [Tweet , 04/24/24]

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders: "Can you believe we live in a world where a Starbucks worker can't seek other barista jobs because of a so-called "non-compete" clause? Outrageous! I applaud the Federal Trade Commission for banning non-compete clauses. Once again, Chair Khan is delivering for working people." [Tweet , 04/23/24]

Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey: "It's a bad day to be a greedy corporation. @FTC and @DOL delivered huge wins for workers--banning non-compete agreements that trap workers at artificially low wages, and expanding overtime protections to millions of working class salaried workers." [Tweet , 04/23/24]

Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen: "Noncompete clauses unfairly restrict workers, small businesses, and entrepreneurship across the board. They hurt employees, employers AND our economy, which is why I've long supported getting rid of them -- and why I'm glad to see @POTUS and the @FTC take this major step today." [Tweet , 04/23/24]

California Senator Laphonza Butler: "The @FTC's decision to ban noncompetes is a win for workers and a step towards a fairer economy. Noncompetes disproportionately harm women and people of color, limiting job mobility and bargaining power. I'm glad the FTC is putting workers' rights first." [Tweet , 04/24/24]

Missouri Representative Emanuel Cleaver: "Thankful to have a

@POTUS that puts American workers first! With these actions, President Biden is leveling the playing field for hardworking families and ensuring they receive fair pay for their labor. #PeopleOverPolitics." [Tweet , 04/25/24]

Ohio Representative Shontel Brown: "This week, the FTC issued a ban on non-compete clauses, an unfair practice that has been used to limit worker mobility and suppress wages. Banning non-competes is a win for Ohio workers and working people nationwide." [Tweet , 04/25/24]

DOL Announces New Rules on Overtime Pay and Retirement Security

Advocates

AARP: "[This rule] normalizes what Americans already expect their financial advisors should be doing. AARP research shows that retirement savers assume that all financial advisors are giving them good advice, and because of this, they rely on it. Unfortunately, that advice is not always in their best interest. We stand ready to see this rule fully implemented, and to continue our work to close the retirement savings gap across the country." [Statement , 04/23/24]

Elected Officials

Minnesota Senator Tina Smith: "Some 4 million more American workers will now get paid overtime when they work for more than 40 hours a week, thanks to President Biden. That means that if you are a lower-paid salaried worker, you can get overtime just like hourly workers do. That's really good news." [Tweet , 04/23/24]

New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: "It's actually pretty simple -- if you work overtime, you should be paid for it. Starting July 1 st, millions of salaried workers will finally be eligible for overtime pay. This is a major step towards fairer wages and economic justice." [Tweet , 04/25/24]

Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar: "Great news! The @USDOL's new rule will make millions of salaried employees eligible for overtime pay. This is a huge win for Americans struggling with higher costs." [Tweet, 4/25/24]

Virginia Representative Bobby Scott: "Workers deserve fair pay for every hour they work, including 'time and a half' for overtime work. Unfortunately, without adequate overtime pay protections, millions of workers making modest salaries are putting in 50- and 60-hour weeks while being denied overtime protections. By increasing the salary threshold to qualify for overtime pay, the Biden-Harris Administration's final overtime rule provides millions more Americans with the overtime protections they need. This means more dollars in the pockets of workers who are asked to work long hours, enabling them to better provide for themselves and their families. […] This rule is good for workers, good for businesses, and good for our economy. It is the kind of action that further underscores Acting Secretary Julie Su's leadership and commitment to workers' economic security. I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for their work to grow the economy from the bottom up and the middle out, and I look

forward to continuing to work together to ensure that workers get a fair share of the profits they produce." [Statement , 04/23/24]

Washington Senator Patty Murray: "After the Trump administration callously excluded millions of workers from overtime protections, this final rule from the Biden administration will restore and expand protections for millions of working people, ensuring they get the overtime compensation they deserve when working long hours away from their families," said Senator Murray. "This will make a material difference in the lives of over 4 million workers--giving their families extra breathing room for their extra labor. From Day One, the Biden administration has been laser-focused on improving the lives of working Americans, and this rule is one more important step in that direction." [Statement , 04/23/24]

Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren: "If you're working overtime, you deserve overtime pay. Today, the Biden administration is extending overtime protections to Americans making up to $58,656 -- up from just $35,568 under Donald Trump. That's a big raise for over 4 million hardworking Americans and long overdue." [Tweet , 04/23/24]

Illinois Representative Jan Schakowsky: "Every person in the United States deserves to age with dignity and access to quality long-term care. For years, I have championed a provision that would ensure that registered nurses are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week in nursing facilities. I am happy to see that the Biden Administration has incorporated this provision into the final rule for minimum staffing standards. I am also relieved to see that the rule brings long-overdue transparency to nursing home compensation for direct care workers. […] I will continue to work with my colleagues and the Administration to hold nursing homes accountable for the treatment of their nursing workforce and ensure residents receive high-quality, person-centered care." [Statement , 04/23/24]

DOT Delivers Automatic Refunds and Protect Consumers from Surprise Junk Fees in Air Travel

Organizations and Advocates

American Economic Liberties Project: "The DOT's new rule is a watershed moment for passenger protection in the airline industry, making it easy and accessible for consumers to get relief when Too-Big-To-Care airlines run roughshod over them. This news follows a positive sea change in the DOT's enforcement activity under the Biden administration, including supporting the DOJ's successful JetBlue-Spirit merger challenge, a historic enforcement action against Southwest, and new efforts to empower state attorneys general to address consumer complaints." [Statement , 04/25/2024]

National Consumers League: "Today's rules promise to bring sanity to the refund process. In addition, the new rules on fee transparency will make it easier for consumers to get an accurate price for their flights upfront. This is a far better solution making consumers wait until the end of the ticket buying process to learn what their true cost will be." [Statement , 04/25/2024]

Consumer Federation of America: "Hidden fees prevent consumers from predictably calculating costs, and consumers have almost no recourse when they are owed refunds that never show up. These rules demonstrate that Secretary Buttigieg is continuing his momentum toward leveling the playing field for airline consumers and holding airlines accountable." [Statement , 04/24/2024]

Consumer Action: "We applaud the DOT's move to require refunds for consumers --by default--when flights are cancelled or 'significantly' delayed. This clear directive is sorely needed and a significant improvement for airline passengers." [Statement , 04/25/2024]

Elected Officials

New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez?Big change from @USDOT:

If your flight gets delayed or canceled, airlines now have to refund you automatically in CASH.

Refunds cover:

- Delayed flights

- Airport changes

- Added connections

- Service class downgrade

- Accessibility changes

[X post , 4/24/2024]

Tennessee Representative Steve Cohen: "These passenger protections are long overdue. When airlines are responsible for flight delays or cancellations, or do not provide the services that their customers pay for, passengers should be made whole, not tied to airline vouchers or travel credits. I have also heard from many travelers about their frustrations with hidden fees for checked bags, seat assignments, and flight change and cancellation fees that far exceed the costs to provide these services. I'm pleased that the Department of Transportation has implemented many of the protections in my Cash Refunds for Flight Cancellations Act and Forbidding Airlines from Imposing Ridiculous Fees Act." [Statement , 04/24/24]

Washington Representative Rick Larsen: "Airline passengers deserve compensation for cancelled or significantly delayed flights and transparency when it comes to junk fees. Today's new rules will deliver both, putting money back in consumers' pockets by streamlining the refund process and requiring airlines to be upfront about ticket prices so passengers can choose the flight that is best for them." [Statement , 04/24/24]

Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren: "You shouldn't have to jump through hoops just to get your money back if your flight was cancelled or the airline lost your bag. Thanks to the Biden admin, airlines must disclose up-front any extra fees and issue automatic cash refunds for cancelled flights -- no travel vouchers!" [Tweet , 04/24/24]

Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey: "I applaud @POTUS for taking steps I've long advocated and announcing a new rule to protect travelers from junk fees and ensure automatic refunds for canceled travel. No one should have to beg airlines for their money back and surprise fees shouldn't blow their budgets sky high." [Tweet , 04/24/24]

Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey: "It's good to hear that @USDOT is taking action to protect airline customers from junk fees. American consumers shouldn't be shocked at checkout, and these rules will help ensure prices are more transparent and accurately reflect what you'll pay." [Tweet , 04/24/24]

Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth: "? Huge news! It's past time airlines treat us fairly when they don't deliver the level of service they promise. This new rule by @SecretaryPete and the Biden Administration will help crack down on hidden fees and get folks an automatic refund if a trip is cancelled or delayed." [Tweet , 04/24/24]

Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal: "I'm pleased that the Biden Admin is heeding calls like mine for stiffer remedies against greed-driven junk fees, canceled or delayed flights, & other consumer abuses. Flyers deserve basic rights--services they pay for & compensation when they're denied.

"All fees need to be fully disclosed up front & refunds made right away--as these new rules will help do. Basic fairness shouldn't be up in the air for airlines." [Tweet , 04/25/25]

New Mexico Representative Gabe Vasquez: "Great news! ? If your flight is delayed or cancelled, you'll now receive an automatic cash refund. This is critical for protecting travelers' pocketbooks and ensuring they get the money they deserve." [Tweet , 04/25/24]

Virginia Representative Jennifer McClellan: "NEW: @USDOT announced rules to protect travelers, making it easier to fly! Now, airlines have to issue a cash refund if your flight is canceled/delayed or they lose your bags AND they must be up-front about hidden fees. The Biden-Harris Administration continues to deliver!" [Tweet, 4/25/2024]

South Carolina Representative Jim Clyburn: "Good news: The Biden Admin's new rule will require airlines to offer cash refunds when they cancel or significantly delay flights or if they lose your bags. This is @POTUS' latest action to expand consumer protections, eliminate junk fees & lower costs." [Tweet, 4/25/2024]

California Representative Norma Torres: "Great news from @DOT to protect the American flying public! Passengers deserve cash refunds for delays, lost luggage, or cancellations, with no hidden fees. Thank you @POTUS and @SecretaryPete for fighting for consumer rights!" [Tweet , 4/25/2024]

Michigan Representative Hillary Scholten: "HUGE WIN: @USDOT took an incredible step to protect travelers. Airlines are now required to provide automatic cash refunds for flight delays, cancellations, and delayed or lost baggage and eliminate hidden fees! This will save passengers over $500 M & lots of headaches!" [Tweet, 4/25/2024]

Michigan Representative Shri Thanedar: "Everyone hates delays and cancellations at the airport. Thanks to @POTUS and @USDOT, you'll get your refund right away when your travel doesn't go as planned!" [Tweet, 4/25/2024]

California Representative Nanette Barragan: "?? Great news for airline passengers. I hope the other rules for airline controlled delays being considered are also implemented. Thank you POTUS Biden!" [Tweet, 4/25/24]

Delaware Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester: "NEWS: These rules will require airlines to provide automatic cash refunds that will put more $$ in your pockets and save you from hidden airline junk fees. I commend @POTUS and @USDOT for taking this step to protect travelers across the country. See you at the airport! ?✈️" [Tweet, 4/25/24]

New Jersey Representative Bill Pascrell: "President Biden moves this week:

✈️Hammered airline fees

✍️Banned noncompete clauses

?Won overtime pay for 4 M workers

Pro worker, pro consumer, pro labor, pro America. Say it with me: #BidenBoom #DemocratsDeliver" [Tweet, 4/24/2024]

Pennsylvania Madeleine Dean: "One thing we can all agree on: cancelled flights, long delays, and lost luggage are unwelcome hurdles -- and far too frequent. Getting your money back shouldn't be another. Thank you to the Biden Administration for easing this stress by requiring automatic cash refunds." [Tweet, 4/24/24]

Federal Communications Commission votes to restore net neutrality

Organizations and Advocates

Public Knowledge: "Today, the FCC voted to restore the net neutrality rules that were put into place in 2015, and later repealed. Restoring what we had before is an important victory, but just the beginning." [Statement , 04/24/24]

ACLU: The American Civil Liberties Union commends the Federal Communications Commission's vote today to restore vital net neutrality regulations by reclassifying broadband under Title II of the Communications Act of 1934. After today's vote, the FCC once again possesses the necessary oversight powers to safeguard users against exploitative or negligent practices by internet service providers .

ACLU: "Today marks the last day that internet service providers can continue to put profit over people. We are thrilled that the FCC now has the authority it needs to protect consumers, promote the exercise of First Amendment rights online, and ensure that everyone has access to high-quality, affordable internet." [Statement , 04/25/24]

Michael Copps, Former Chair of the FCC: "Today's action brings back moderate rules that have already passed court muster and are essential building blocks for a consumer-friendly and citizen-friendly internet.. . . . Our communications technologies are evolving so swiftly, affecting so many important aspects of our individual lives, that they must be available to all of us on a non-discriminatory basis. And they must advance the public interest, protecting consumers, fostering competition, and providing us all the news and information we need as we fight to maintain our democracy. We still have much to do; but today, let's celebrate a huge step forward." [Statement , 04/25/24]

Common Cause: "The restoration of Net Neutrality is a victory for every American household, and it is a victory for democracy. Today's vote returns control of the Internet to the American people instead of corporate interests. The Internet is crucial to civic engagement in the United States today. It functions as a virtual public square where social justice movements organize and garner support. […] The Internet today is an essential public utility and in recent years, service providers proved themselves incapable of delivering that service without supervision. The FCC's vote today returns the Internet to the American people." [Statement , 04/25/24]

Congressional Leaders

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden and Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey: "Net neutrality is simple; it's about nondiscrimination. Net neutrality ensures that anyone can use the internet without being blocked or obstructed by gatekeepers. Net neutrality protects dreamers in garages, small businesses, and budding entrepreneurs from being shoved into online slow lanes. Net neutrality ensures advocates, activists, and organizers can freely speak their minds and voice their views. Net neutrality ensures the internet remains a democratic space where commerce and communication can thrive." [Statement , 04/25/24]

California Representative Anna Eshoo: "In 2018, the FCC voted to repeal net neutrality rules, eviscerating the protections of consumers that advanced competition and innovation, and helped small businesses and entrepreneurs across the country. Since then, consumers have borne the brunt of this decision as Internet Service Providers slowed data speeds everywhere, including the Santa Clara County firefighters when ISPs throttled them as they fought the then-largest fire in California history. Today's FCC vote reestablishing net neutrality protections for every American is a great victory for national security, public safety, consumer protection, and American innovation." [Statement , 04/25/24]

Washington Senator Maria Cantwell: "Americans should be able to use the internet without fear and without foreign adversaries posing legitimate threats to them on U.S. soil. We need to protect the growing innovation economy by making sure that we have rules that say you can't throttle, you can't slow down, and you can't charge exorbitant fees just to have preferential treatment. I applaud the Chair for their work and look forward to working with her." [Statement , 04/18/24]

Colorado Senator Michael Bennet: "A free and open internet is essential for our democracy and economy. That's why I've pushed alongside Coloradans for years to restore #NetNeutrality rules. I'm glad that @FCC has acted on our calls." [Tweet , 04/25/24]

The Department of Health and Human Services Finalizes Rules to help care workers and caretakers, seniors, and those living with disabilities

Congressional Leaders

Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey: "Our Nation's 1.2 million nursing home residents expect and deserve high quality care that prioritizes health, safety, and human dignity. But for too long, many nursing homes have not met this threshold due to understaffing and inadequate enforcement. This rule, which both establishes staffing minimums and improves enforcement of nursing home violations, is an important step towards ensuring that all nursing homes are providing the care that all residents need and deserve." [Press Release , 04/24/24]

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden: "Adequate staffing in nursing homes is the single most important factor when it comes to the quality of care in these settings. The updated standards finalized by the Biden administration this week will improve the quality of care for the 1.2 million seniors and Americans with disabilities who receive care in a nursing home. […] I also commend the Biden administration for finalizing the Medicaid access rule, which will improve the quality of services that seniors and people with disabilities receive in their own homes and improve the jobs of the direct care workforce that deliver home and community-based services through the Medicaid program. The rule will ensure that Medicaid dollars are being used for wages for direct care workers, and it will establish payment standards for primary care, obstetrics care, and behavioral health care, which are essential services for all Americans." [Press Release

, 04/24/24]

Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren: "Nursing home residents -- our parents, family members, and friends -- are too often stuck in facilities without enough staff to keep them healthy and safe. The Biden-Harris administration's new minimum staffing rules will protect seniors and improve quality of care." [Tweet , 04/23/24]

Massachusetts Representative Richard Neal: "Nursing home residents and their families deserve to know that they will be safe and well-cared for in long-term care homes, and the latest actions taken by the Biden Administration are welcome improvements to strengthen patient and worker safety. As long as industry forces prioritize profits over care, Ways and Means Democrats will not only continue cracking down on these unsafe practices but also push for the robust oversight patients and their families deserve. We're committed to ensuring that every American has access to the care they need for their health and well-being while improving support for the direct care workforce. Bolstering our care economy is critical to sustain the historic success delivered by President Biden's re-building our economy from the bottom-up and the middle-out, and we'll continue spreading prosperity and unlocking opportunity by investing right in America's caregivers, workers, and their families." [Press Release

, 04/22/24]

Illinois Representative Jan Schakowsky: "Every person in the United States deserves to age with dignity and access to quality long-term care. For years, I have championed a provision that would ensure that registered nurses are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week in nursing facilities. I am happy to see that the Biden Administration has incorporated this provision into the final rule for minimum staffing standards. I am also relieved to see that the rule brings long-overdue transparency to nursing home compensation for direct care workers. […] I will continue to work with my colleagues and the Administration to hold nursing homes accountable for the treatment of their nursing workforce and ensure residents receive high-quality, person-centered care." [Statement , 04/23/24]

Community, Labor, and Advocacy Organizations

SEIU: "Today is an historic moment. The Biden-Harris administration has taken a major step toward strengthening our long-term care workforce, ensuring quality care for those who need it and helping every family thrive. The 2 million working people united in SEIU – many of whom are nursing home, hospital and home care workers – applaud the Biden-Harris administration for delivering on their promise that they would confront the crisis in our country's nursing home and home care industries head-on. By requiring 80% of Medicaid funding for home care to go directly to workers while taking into account unique circumstances for some providers and creating a federal nursing home staffing standard, our country is better equipped to move forward in the pursuit of building a long-term care system that works for everyone, in all communities." [Statement

, 04/22/24]

AARP: "For years, AARP has fought to ensure the health and safety of every person living in a nursing home. CMS's long overdue rule to require minimum staffing levels in America's nursing homes will help protect the basic rights of residents to live in dignity. It is shameful that nursing homes receiving taxpayer dollars through Medicaid and Medicare haven't been required to provide quality care through specific minimum staffing standards until now. Far too many residents and families have experienced tragic consequences because of poorly staffed facilities. AARP commends CMS for requiring nursing homes to meet important staffing standards, including having a registered nurse on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Ultimately, ensuring nursing homes are adequately staffed will improve the quality of care residents receive and can give family caregivers peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are living with the quality of life they deserve." [Statement

, 04/22/24]

Center on Budget and Policy Priorities: "Enrollees in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program will benefit from two rules finalized by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services yesterday. The rules -- one focused on access to Medicaid fee-for-service care and home- and community-based services , the other on Medicaid managed care plans -- are complex, but they share a goal that's easy to grasp: improving access to high-quality care for the 85 million people Medicaid covers. […] Once implemented, these rules will improve access to health care services that are supposed to be offered by Medicaid. Along with the recently finalized Medicaid and CHIP eligibility and enrollment rule, the rules are an important step to help eligible people get enrolled, stay enrolled, and access the quality health care services they need." [Blog , 04/23/24]

National Council on Disability: "NCD applauds the Biden Administration's systemic investment in home and community based services and strengthening the direct care workforce. The CMS Access Rule in particular is necessary for people with disabilities who rely on the direct care workforce for inclusion in the community." [Statement , 04/23/24]

National Health Law Program: "Nationally, there is a critical direct care workforce shortage. All too often, people eligible for HCBS, which allow people with disabilities and complex medical needs to live in their homes and communities, cannot actually find anyone to provide these essential supports. The HCBS access rule creates a mechanism to address historically insufficient rates and establishes that a fair share of state and federal Medicaid dollars go directly to wages for direct care workers, a workforce that is largely composed of immigrants and people of color. Ultimately, we hope this will increase access to critical HCBS services that let people with disabilities live in their own communities while also improving historical inequities in how this workforce is paid." [Statement , 4/23/24]

State convening on junk fees

Arizona State Representative Analise Ortiz: The Biden Administration is looking to change that, ultimately putting money back into the hands of consumers with the help of several state leaders like Arizona State Representative Analise Ortiz. "The data shows junk fees add 20% to a person's bill and right now when so many Arizonans are struggling, every dollar really counts," Ortiz said. "It's long overdue that Arizonans have transparency when they go to buy certain goods or services." [NBC News , 04/24/2024]

Illinois State Representative Bob Morgan: Officials in Illinois introduced their own junk fees bill last month, aiming to crack down on hidden fees and empowering the state's attorney general to go after businesses that ignore the new restrictions. "We can't do much about global inflation at the state level, but what we can do is deal with things like this," said Democratic state Rep. BOB MORGAN, one of the bill's sponsors. Morgan was in Washington on Monday meeting with White House and FTC officials for an exchange of ideas. [POLITICO , 04/24/2024]

North Carolina State Representative Tim Longest: "This is a very real example of how legislators across the country at the state level can tackle cost of living issues in a real way," said TIM LONGEST, a Democratic state representative from Raleigh, North Carolina, who also attended. [POLITICO , 04/24/2024]

April 29, 2024

Last week, the Biden-Harris Administration took several new actions to protect workers and consumers. From banning noncompete agreements that leave workers stuck in jobs, to raising the threshold for overtime, to requiring airlines to provide passengers with cash refunds and cracking down on junk fees, the Administration is delivering on President Biden's and Vice President Harris's agenda to empower workers, lower costs, and build the economy from the middle out and bottom up.

See more below:

Axios: ? Workers' winning week

[4/27/24]

It was a huge week for U.S. workers, who notched some big wins that could lead to higher wages for millions.

The big picture: New rules from federal agencies intent on implementing the White House's pro worker agenda plus a big union victory in the South are keeping the deck stacked in labor's favor -- for now, Axios' Emily Peck writes.

⚡ State of play: The Labor Department this week expanded its rule on when employees are owed overtime .

Also this week, the Federal Trade Commission [released] a rule that bans nearly all noncompete agreements.

The FTC estimates that 30 million Americans are subject to these agreements and that its ban will lead to $524 in increased wages per year, per worker, on average.

Outside of Washington, auto workers in the South scored a breakthrough victory last week when employees at a Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga voted overwhelmingly in favor of unionizing, Axios' Nathan Bomey reports .

The vote gives unions a major inroad into organizing the South, historically hostile to organizing.

Another worker win: Late last night, Daimler truck workers in North Carolina reached a deal that gives them 25% raises and avoids a strike that would have started today, The New York Times reports .

Business Insider: A flurry of new rules from the Biden administration attempt to ban noncompetes, boost overtime pay, and increase refunds for delayed flights

[Juliana Kaplan, 4/27/24]

The Biden administration this week pushed out a slate of rules it says are meant to boost competitiveness and put more money into workers' pockets.

There are already challenges to at least one of the rules -- but together they could land overtime pay for millions more workers, ban noncompetes that prevent workers from moving into jobs in similar industries, and help people get automatic refunds for delayed or canceled flights.

"By increasing competition, these rules give workers their fairly earned wages and gives consumers more power to purchase the best option," Lael Brainard, the director of the National Economic Council, told Business Insider.

[…]

Brainard argued that "a lot of Republicans and some of the businesses and special interests that they're supporting will try to challenge these actions because it means that they have to pass on savings to consumers," adding, "They have to lower prices; they have to give working families a break."

Investopedia: Biden Administration Expands Push to Shift Workplace Rules in Favor of Workers

[Diccon Hyatt, 4/28/24]

President Joe Biden's administration released major regulations last week aimed at tilting workplace rules in favor of workers, the latest in a series of actions by Biden to use the power of federal regulatory agencies to advance policy goals.

Federal regulators finalized rules expanding required overtime pay for workers making less than $58,656 and banning non-compete agreements on Tuesday. And in a move affecting employer-sponsored retirement plans, they finalized a rule requiring retirement advisors to act as fiduciaries , in the best interest of their clients rather than being paid to promote certain financial products.

Taken together, the policies could alter the balance of power in the workplace, giving employees more leverage to switch jobs, potentially raising their bargaining power and ultimately their wages.

"It appears that the Biden administration is taking a number of steps to benefit workers, potentially at the expense of their employers, and is trying to tilt the playing field more in favor of workers," said Leonard Samuels, a labor and employment expert and partner at Berger Singerman law firm. "What the Biden administration is doing all at once is fairly breathtaking."

The new rules are an attempt to "get American workers a better deal," Biden said in a post on social media platform X.1 "Workers ought to have the right to choose who they want to work for," Biden wrote of the non-compete ban. And regarding the overtime rule: "If you work extra hours, you deserve extra pay."

Associated Press: How US Changes to 'noncompete' agreements and overtime pay could affect workers

[Cathy Bussewitz and Mae Anderson, 4/24/24]

For millions of American workers, the federal government took two actions this week that could bestow potentially far-reaching benefits.

In one move, the Federal Trade Commission voted to ban noncompete agreements, which bar millions of workers from leaving their employers to join a competitor or start a rival business for a specific period of time. The FTC's move, which is already being challenged in court, would mean that such employees could apply for jobs they weren't previously eligible to seek.

In a second move, the Biden administration finalized a rule that will make millions more salaried workers eligible for overtime pay. The rule significantly raises the salary level that workers could earn and still qualify for overtime.

April 29, 2024

Later in the day, the Second Gentleman will participate in a fireside chat on gender equity at Global Citizen NOW. The Second Gentleman will discuss the importance of investing in economic opportunities for women. This event will be open to pre-credentialed media. Press interested in attending this event should contact Jake Glickman, glickman@ssmandl.com. Additional details to follow.

April 29, 2024

Additional details to follow.

April 29, 2024

April 29, 2024

Vice President Harris to meet with small business owners who are taking advantage of Biden-Harris Administration resources to help launch and scale their businesses

Today, Vice President Kamala Harris is kicking off a nationwide Economic Opportunity Tour with a stop in Atlanta, GA. During this multi-state tour, the Vice President will be traveling across the country to highlight how the Biden-Harris Administration has built economic opportunity, supported communities, and delivered for the American people. The tour reflects President Biden and Vice President Harris' commitment to invest in all of America, create an economy in which every person has the freedom to thrive, and help underserved entrepreneurs access historic investments available locally to launch and scale their businesses, build wealth, and strengthen their communities.

While in Atlanta, Vice President Harris will highlight how the city is receiving $158 million for "The Stitch" project to reconnect midtown to downtown Atlanta through the Biden-Harris Administration's first-of-its-kind Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program. When constructed, the Downtown Connector sliced through communities like Sweet Auburn, cutting it off from Downtown and displacing hundreds of homes and businesses in primarily Black working-class neighborhoods. The Stitch project will create a 14-acre mixed-use development cap on three-quarters of the Downtown Connector--increasing access to jobs, housing, education, and healthcare and creating public parks, plazas, and surface streets for walking and biking.

The Stitch is only one of the projects awarded across more than 40 states as part of the announcement of $3.3 billion from the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program, which is funded by the President's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. This program will help rectify the damage done by past transportation projects – decades of harmful urban renewal projects and legacy policy decisions in the buildout of the Federal highway system that the Department of Transportation estimates displaced over a million people and businesses – while driving economic growth in underserved communities and helping advance racial equity.

The Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program is yet another way the Biden-Harris Administration is advancing economic opportunity, while taking on the legacy of harm in communities that have grappled with decades of disinvestment or economic distress. The Administration is focused on supporting economic comebacks in communities across the country; especially those that have suffered from decades of disinvestment.

The President and Vice President's strategy for investing in all of America has helped lead to a historically strong and equitable recovery, and a small business boom that is lifting communities across the country. Under the Biden-Harris Administration we've seen the three strongest years for new business applications on record. At the same time, Black business ownership has grown at its fastest pace in 30 years and the Latino new entrepreneurship rate reaching an all-time high in 2023. Today, the White House released the Building on the Biden-Harris Small Business Boom report to celebrate the start of National Small Business week and actions the Administration has taken to deliver for small businesses including:

Setting New Records – over $178 billion, representing more than 28% of federal contract spending – in Federal Procurement Dollars Awarded to Small Businesses, including over $76 billion to Small Disadvantaged Businesses in Fiscal Year 2023

On pace to nearly double the number of small dollar loans to small businesses in Fiscal Year 2024 thanks to Biden-Harris Administration policies. Less than one year since implementing policy reforms to increase access to small dollar loans, the Small Business Administration is on pace to increase approved 7 loans under $150,000 by a third compared to Fiscal Year 2023 and nearly double the number of small loans approved compared to the final year of the previous Administration.

Through the American Rescue Plan's State Small Business Credit Initiative , Treasury has approved over $8 billion in SSBCI capital support for small businesses that is expected to catalyze at least $10 in private investment for each dollar of SSBCI capital funding.

On track to deliver more than $250 billion to more than 500,000 small businesses through SBA's lending programs by the end of the decade, meeting Biden-Harris Administration commitment. Since President Biden and Vice President Harris took office, SBA has taken numerous steps to expand access to capital – including finalizing rules to increase small dollar lending, expanding programs that help connect traditionally underserved businesses with resources, and revamping its Lender Match portal – leading to the delivery of nearly $124 billion in financing to small businesses through its 7 , 504, and microloan programs to date.

Additionally, as part of her economic opportunity tour stop in Atlanta, the Vice President is helping highlight the historic Biden-Harris Administration investments in access to capital and small business support that are available to help entrepreneurs scale and grow their businesses in Georgia, including:

With a $65 million investment from the American Rescue Plan , the Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing Coalition , led by the Georgia Institute of Technology, is driving the equitable development and deployment of innovation and talent in artificial intelligence for manufacturing across Georgia. Built as a network of over 40 partners – including the Technical College System of Georgia, Spelman College, Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, Georgia Cyber Center at Augusta University, Technology Association of Georgia Education, 21^st Century Partnership, SW Regional Commission, University of Georgia and others – Georgia AIM is establishing an ecosystem focused on workforce development, technology innovation, and resilience in manufacturing.

Georgia AIM is one of 21 regional coalitions awarded funding through the ARP's $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge – led by the Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration and the most impactful regional economic development competition in decades. These regional coalitions are growing critical industries that will strengthen regional economies, promote inclusive and equitable growth, and create thousands of good-paying jobs in industries of the future such as clean energy, next-generation manufacturing, and biotechnology. Across the nation, BBBRC projects are dedicating $140 million to help increase new business growth and entrepreneurial activity and $100 million to help small and midsized businesses adopt new processes and enter new markets.

Through five lending and equity programs, Georgia's ARP-funded State Small Business Credit Initiative is expected to deliver close to $200 million in capital support to Georgia small businesses and catalyze roughly $2 billion in private funding. Entrepreneurs in Georgia can apply through state-approved lenders to access these programs.

Georgia's SSBCI program is part of the President and Vice President's historic nearly $10 billion nationwide investment in capital access for small businesses through the Treasury Department's ARP-funded SSBCI, which is expected to leverage $10 in private capital for every $1 of SSBCI capital and support roughlyorty-six states and territories committing nearly $3 billion from SSBCI to equity-based financing programs, including over $1.4 billion through partnerships with private venture capital funds – the single largest infusion of federal funding for equity participation in early-stage small businesses in history. These investments are expected to catalyze over $30 billion in additional private investment and follow-on funding over the decade that will help underserved entrepreneurs tap into a critical source of capital for business development and wealth creation that has traditionally suffered from some of the most restrictive barriers to access.

The ARP-funded Capital Readiness Program is helping the Urban League of Greater Atlanta to deliver incubator and accelerator services through its Entrepreneurship Center to historically underserved entrepreneurs that are starting or operating enterprises in high-growth industries including healthcare, climate-resilient technology, infrastructure, and transportation and logistics. Capital Readiness programing is helping underserved entrepreneurs get the mentoring, coaching, and guidance in relationship building needed to help prepare for, secure, and deploy capital.

The Urban League of Greater Atlanta was one of the 43 winners of the $125 million CRP awards competition announced by Vice President Harris in August of 2023. This critical funding, administered by the Minority Business Development Agency , is the largest-ever direct Federal investment in small business incubators and accelerators of its kind and the largest initiative in the over 50-year history of the MBDA.

Three Georgia-based Community Development Financial Institutions received over $125 million in Emergency Capital Investment Program investments to increase their lending and investments to support small businesses and consumers in their communities, including two minority depository institutions : Citizens Trust Bank in Atlanta and the Carver Financial Corporation in Savannah. These investments, stemming from funding Vice President Harris secured during her time in the Senate, are supporting low- and moderate-income community financial institutions across the country in providing loans, grants, and forbearance for small businesses, minority-owned businesses, and consumers, especially in low-income and underserved communities. Nationally, Treasury projects that the more than $8.57 billion invested in 175 federally-insured depository institutions that are CDFIs or MDIs through ECIP may increase lending in Hispanic communities by nearly $58 billion and in Black

communities by up to $80 billion over the next decade.

April 29, 2024

Small businesses are the engines of the economy. As President Biden says, every time someone starts a new small business, it's an act of hope and confidence in our economy. In celebration of National Small Business Week, the Biden-Harris Administration is announcing new milestones in support delivered to small businesses across the country.

Since arriving in office, the Biden-Harris Administration has overseen a sustained small business boom across the country. The President's agenda has driven the first, second and third strongest years of new business application rates on record--and is on pace for the fourth--with Americans filing a record 17.2 million new business applications. Business applications are a leading indicator for new business creation, and the historic growth in business applications has coincided with the strongest labor market in decades. And traditionally underserved small businesses are growing at near-historic rates, with Black business ownership growing at the fastest pace in 30 years and Latino business ownership growing at the fastest pace in more than a decade.

Republicans in Congress have undermined small businesses by attempting to repeal Inflation Reduction Act investments that are lowering costs for small business. House Republicans are also threatening assistance to small businesses across the country by proposing draconian cuts to the Small Business Administration as part of their 31% reduction to government-wide spending. And House Republicans would defund the President's agenda to advance racial and gender equity in federal contracts.

President Biden is fighting to grow the small business boom spurred by his agenda. Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced:

New Records for Federal Procurement Dollars Awarded to Small Businesses, Including Small Disadvantaged Businesses . The Small Business Administration released its Procurement Scorecard showing that in Fiscal Year 2023, the Biden-Harris Administration awarded an all-time high in federal contracts to small businesses across federal agencies. In total, a record-high of $178.6 billion, or 28.4 percent, of all contracting dollars went to small businesses. This includes:

$76.2 billion to SDBs, totaling 12.1 percent of federal contracting dollars and surpassing the 12% goal for FY23 established by the Office of Management and Budget. This represents the third consecutive year of record-breaking awards to SDBs under President Biden, and puts the Administration on track to reach the President's goal of increasing federal contracting dollars to SDBs by 50% by 2025 . Increasing federal investments in under-resourced businesses helps more Americans realize their entrepreneurial dreams, strengthens the supplier base, and contributes to narrowing persistent wealth disparities.

$32 billion to Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses , representing a nearly $4 billion increase from Fiscal Year 2022. The Administration surpassed its goal by nearly 70%, with a total of 5.07 percent of federal contracting dollars going to SDVOSB.

In FY23, government contracting with small businesses supported one million jobs, including in manufacturing, construction, research & development, technology, defense, and other vital industries.

Across the federal government, 22 agencies received an 'A' or higher on their individual procurement scorecards, surpassing last year's total.

In conjunction with the scorecard, the SBA released federal contract data broken down by business owner race and ethnicity for FY23, which shows that businesses owned by historically underrepresented groups earned more through federal contracts across every category.

Release of Third Annual Small Business Boom Report. The White House released its third annual Small Business Boom Report , illustrating the continued achievements of the Biden-Harris Administration to support small businesses by expanding access to capital, providing small businesses with more hands-on support, ensuring federal spending benefits small businesses, and building a fairer tax code. The report shows the Administration has continued to make historic progress on all 35 commitments in the original report including:

SBA has nearly doubled small dollar loans. Small businesses consistently voice the need for access to small dollar loans, with survey results indicating over 50% of small businesses seek loans of less than $100,000, but only one-third of the smallest businesses – those with $100,000 or less in annual revenue – report receiving the full funding they request from banks. Less than one year since implementing policy reforms to increase access to small dollar loans, SBA is on pace to nearly double the number of small loans approved compared to the final year of the previous Administration, with over 20,000 7 loans under $150,000 approved in Fiscal Year 2024. It represents a one-third increase over last year, translating to 750 more businesses getting approved for a small dollar loans every month.

Through the American Rescue Plan's State Small Business Credit Initiative approved over $8 billion in capital support for small businesses, leveraging significantly more in private sector funding. Funded by the American Rescue Plan, Treasury's nearly $10 billion State Small Business Initiative program delivers funding to states, territories, and tribal governments that spur lending and investing in small businesses, and provides critical technical assistance. So far, Treasury has approved $8.4 billion in allocations to 55 states and territories and 34 tribal governments that are expected to catalyze at least $10 in private investment for each dollar of SSBCI capital funding. Already $1.1 billion of approved funding has been deployed to support loans or investments to small businesses or investments in venture capital funds. To date, Treasury has also announced the approval of more than $135 million in

technical assistance grants to 40 states and territories.

Delivering more than $250 billion to small businesses through SBA's lending programs by the end of the decade. In 2021, SBA committed to delivering more than $250 billion in financing to more than 500,000 small businesses by the end of the decade. Under this Administration, SBA has taken numerous steps to expand access to capital including finalizing rules to increase small dollar lending, expanding programs that help connect traditionally underserved businesses with resources, and revamping its Lender Match portal. As a result, SBA has delivered nearly $124 billion in financing to small businesses through its 7 , 504, and microloan programs, putting them on pace to reach their goal.

April 29, 2024

Today, federal agencies reported that they completed all of the 180-day actions in the E.O. on schedule, following their recent successes completing each 90-day, 120-day, and 150-day action on time. Agencies also progressed on other work tasked by the E.O. over longer timeframes.

Actions that agencies reported today as complete include the following:

Managing Risks to Safety and Security:

Over 180 days, the Executive Order directed agencies to address a broad range of AI's safety and security risks, including risks related to dangerous biological materials, critical infrastructure, and software vulnerabilities. To mitigate these and other threats to safety, agencies have:

Established a framework for nucleic acid synthesis screening to help prevent the misuse of AI for engineering dangerous biological materials. This work complements in-depth study by the Department of Homeland Security , Department of Energy and Office of Science and Technology Policy on AI's potential to be misused for this purpose, as well as a DHS report that recommended mitigations for the misuse of AI to exacerbate chemical and biological threats. In parallel, the Department of Commerce has worked to engage the private sector to develop technical guidance to facilitate implementation. Starting 180 days after the framework is announced, agencies will require that grantees obtain synthetic nucleic acids from vendors that screen.

Released for public comment draft documents on managing generative AI risks, securely developing generative AI systems and dual-use foundation models, expanding international standards development in AI, and reducing the risks posed by AI-generated content. When finalized, these documents by the National Institute of Standards and Technology will provide additional guidance that builds on NIST's AI Risk Management Framework, which offered individuals, organizations, and society a framework to manage AI risks and has been widely adopted both in the U.S. and globally.

Developed the first AI safety and security guidelines for critical infrastructure owners and operators. These guidelines are informed by the completed work of nine agencies to assess AI risks across all sixteen critical infrastructure sectors.

Launched the AI Safety and Security Board to advise the Secretary of Homeland Security, the critical infrastructure community, other private sector stakeholders, and the broader public on the safe and secure development and deployment of AI technology in our nation's critical infrastructure. The Board's 22 inaugural members include representatives from a range of sectors, including software and hardware company executives, critical infrastructure operators, public officials, the civil rights community, and academia.

Piloted new AI tools for identifying vulnerabilities in vital government software systems. The Department of Defense made progress on a pilot for AI that can find and address vulnerabilities in software used for national security and military purposes. Complementary to DoD's efforts, DHS piloted different tools to identify and close vulnerabilities in other critical government software systems that Americans rely on every hour of every day.

Standing up for Workers, Consumers, and Civil Rights

The Executive Order directed bold steps to mitigate other risks from AI--including risks to workers, to consumers, and to Americans' civil rights--and ensure that AI's development and deployment benefits all Americans. Today, agencies reported that they have:

Developed bedrock principles and practices for employers and developers to build and deploy AI safely and in ways that empower workers. Agencies all across government are now starting work to establish these practices as requirements, where appropriate and authorized by law, for employers that receive federal funding.

Released guidance to assist federal contractors and employers comply with worker protection laws as they deploy AI in the workplace. The Department of Labor developed a guide for federal contractors and subcontractors to answer questions and share promising practices to clarify federal contractors' legal obligations, promote equal employment opportunity, and mitigate the potentially harmful impacts of AI in employment decisions. DOL also provided guidance regarding the application of the Fair Labor Standards Act and other federal labor standards as employers increasingly use of AI and other automated technologies in the workplace.

Released resources for job seekers, workers, and tech vendors and creators on how AI use could violate employment discrimination laws. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's resources clarify that existing laws apply the use of AI and other new technologies in employment just as they apply to other employment practices.

Issued guidance on AI's nondiscriminatory use in the housing sector. In two guidance documents, the Department of Housing and Urban Development affirmed that existing prohibitions against discrimination apply to AI's use for tenant screening and advertisement of housing opportunities, and it explained how deployers of AI tools can comply with these obligations.

Published guidance and principles that set guardrails for the responsible and equitable use of AI in administering public benefits programs. The Department of Agriculture's guidance explains how State, local, Tribal, and territorial governments should manage risks for uses of AI and automated systems in benefits programs such as SNAP. The Department of Health and Human Services released a plan with guidelines on similar topics for benefits programs it oversees. Both agencies' documents prescribe actions that align with the Office of Management and Budget's policies, published last month, for federal agencies to manage risks in their own use of AI and harness AI's benefits.

Announced a final rule clarifying that nondiscrimination requirements in health programs and activities continue to apply to the use of AI, clinical algorithms, predictive analytics, and other tools. Specifically, the rule applies the nondiscrimination principles under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act to the use of patient care decision support tools in clinical care, and it requires those covered by the rule to take steps to identify and mitigate discrimination when they use AI and other forms of decision support tools for care.

Developed a strategy for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of AI deployed in the health care sector. The strategy outlines rigorous frameworks for AI testing and evaluation, and it outlines future actions for HHS to promote responsible AI development and deployment.

Harnessing AI for Good

President Biden's Executive Order also directed work to seize AI's enormous promise, including by advancing AI's use for scientific research, deepening collaboration with the private sector, and piloting uses of AI. Over the past 180 days, agencies have done the following:

Announced DOE funding opportunities to support the application of AI for science, including energy-efficient AI algorithms and hardware.

Prepared convenings for the next several months with utilities, clean energy developers, data center owners and operators, and regulators in localities experiencing large load growth. Today, DOE announced new actions to assess the potential energy opportunities and challenges of AI, accelerate deployment of clean energy, and advance AI innovation to manage the growing energy demand of AI.

Launched pilots, partnerships, and new AI tools to address energy challenges and advance clean energy. For example, DOE is piloting AI tools to streamline permitting processes and improving siting for clean energy infrastructure, and it has developed other powerful AI tools with applications at the intersection of energy, science, and security. Today, DOE also published a report outlining opportunities AI brings to advance the clean energy economy and modernize the electric grid.

Initiated a sustained effort to analyze the potential risks that deployment of AI may pose to the grid. DOE has started the process of convening energy stakeholders and technical experts over the coming months to collaboratively assess potential risks to the grid, as well as ways in which AI could potentially strengthen grid resilience and our ability to respond to threats--building off a new public assessment .

Authored a report on AI's role in advancing scientific research to help tackle major societal challenges, written by the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.

Bringing AI Talent into Government

The AI and Tech Talent Task Force has made substantial progress on hiring through the AI Talent Surge. Since President Biden signed the E.O., federal agencies have hired over 150 AI and AI-enabling professionals and, along with the tech talent programs, are on track to hire hundreds by Summer 2024. Individuals hired thus far are already working on critical AI missions, such as informing efforts to use AI for permitting, advising on AI investments across the federal government, and writing policy for the use of AI in government.

The General Services Administration has onboarded a new cohort of Presidential Innovation Fellows and also announced their first-ever PIF AI cohort starting this summer.

DHS has launched the DHS AI Corps , which will hire 50 AI professionals to build safe, responsible, and trustworthy AI to improve service delivery and homeland security.

The Office of Personnel Management has issued guidance on skills-based hiring to increase access to federal AI roles for individuals with non-traditional academic backgrounds.

For more on the AI Talent Surge's progress, read its report to the President . To explore opportunities, visit https://ai.gov/apply

April 28, 2024

Federal funding is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides in the counties of Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Ferry, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, King, Klickitat, Lewis, Mason, Okanogan, Pacific, Skagit, Skamania, and Wahkiakum and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures in all areas within the state.

Mr. Lance E. Davis of the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV .

April 28, 2024

Federal funding is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storm in the counties of Butler, Chase, Cloud, Edwards, Ford, Geary, Gray, Hodgeman, Morris, Osage, Ottawa, Pawnee, Shawnee, Stafford, Trego, and Wabaunsee.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Mr. DuWayne Tewes of the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV .

April 28, 2024

Washington Hilton

Washington, D.C.

8:12 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, thank you, thank you.

You think your Irish grandparents are wondering. My great-great grandparents who got here in 1846 are going, "What in the hell is going on?"

I want to thank you for the warm welcome. But please, not so loud. Donald is listening. "Sleepy Don." I kind of like that. I may use that again.

Kelly O'Donnell, president of the White House Correspondents' Association, thank you for having me.

MS. O'DONNELL: Thank you, sir.

THE PRESIDENT: But, Kelly O., let's be honest, you're way too young to be president.

It's been a year since I delivered this speech. And my wife, Jill, who is with me tonight, was worried how I'd do. I told her, "Don't worry. It's just like riding a bike." She said, "That's what I'm worried about."

Of course, the 2024 election is in full swing. And, yes, age is an issue. I'm a grown man running against a six-year-old.

But I feel great. I really feel great. I'm campaigning all over the country: Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina. I always done well in the original 13 colonies.

And speaking of history, did you hear what Donald just said about the major Civil War battle? Quote, "Gettysburg. Wow."

Trump's speech was so embarrassing, the statue of Robert E. Lee surrendered again.

But, look -- -- age is the only thing we have in common. My Vice President actually endorses me.

I've had a great stretch since the State of the Union. But Donald has had a few tough days lately. You might call it stormy weather. What the hell.

Trump is so desperate, he started reading those bibles he's selling.

Then he got to the First Commandment, "You shall have no other Gods before me." That's when he put it down and said, "This book is not for me."

Look, being here is a reminder that folks think what's going on in Congress is political theater. But that's not true. If Congress were a theater, they'd have thrown out Lauren Boebert a long time ago.

Now, to all of my friends in the press -- and Fox News -- -- some of you complain that I don't take enough of your questions. No comment.

Of course, the New York Times issued a statement blasting me for, quote, "actively and effectively avoiding independent journalists."

Hey, if that's what it takes to get the New York Times to say I'm active and effective, I'm for it. It's okay.

I have hi- -- higher standards. I do interviews with strong independent journalists who millions of people actually listen to, like Howard Stern.

And I know you're looking around and saying, "This guy has been doing this for 50 years. He's had his moment. Give him some- -- give someone else a chance."

To say that, I say, "Lorne, ignore the critics. Ignore the critics."

Lorne is a great friend who has had eight comedians play me over the years on "Saturday Night Live." Eight. And who the hell says I'm not a real job creator?

Look, Lorne has had even more comedians and actors joke about me. Like the funny guy on "Weekend Update," Michael Che. He's hilarious.

Scarlett Johansson, you did such an incredible job in your State of the Union rebuttal that you should be -- do "Weekend Update." Clearly, you're -- you're the funny one in the family.

Look, folks, on a serious note, in addition to marrying up, Colin and I have another thing in common. We both find strength in family.

I got to spend time with his family yesterday in the Oval Office. Colin's dad was a high school teacher in Staten Island, and his mom is an incredible woman -- a family of firefighters, was the Chief Medical Officer in New York City Fire Department on 9/11. As a doctor, she rushed to Ground Zero, risking her own life, treating and saving fellow first responders. Rushing into danger for others for others is my definition of patriotism and heroism.

And so is what all of you do when you report truth over lies. That's why I want to close tonight with my genuine thanks to the free press.

There are some who call you the "enemy of the people." That's wrong, and it's dangerous. You literally risk your lives doing your job. You do.

Covering everything from natural disasters to pandemics to wars and so much more. And some of your colleagues have given their lives, and many have suffered grievous injuries. Other reporters have lost their freedom.

Journalism is clearly not a crime. Not here, not there, not anywhere in the world.

And Putin should release Evan and Alsu immediately.

Just as we're doing everything we can -- we're doing everything we can to bring home journalists -- fellow journalists Austin and all Americans, like Paul Whelan, you know, who -- wrongfully detained all around the world.

And I give you my word as a Biden, we're not going to give up until we get them home. All of them. All of them.

On the third anniversary of January 6 th, I went to Valley Forge. And I said the most urgent question of our time is whether democracy is still -- is still the sacred cause of America. That is the question the American people must answer this year. And you, the free press, play a critical role in making sure the American people have the information they need to make an informed decision.

The defeated former President has made no secret of his attack on our democracy. He has said he wants to be a "dictator on day one," and so much more.

He tells supporters he is their "revenge" and "retribution." When in God's name have you heard another president say something like that? And he promised a "bloodbath" when he loses again. We have to take this seriously.

Eight years ago, you could have written off it as just Trump talk. But no longer. Not after January 6 th.

I'm sincerely not asking of you to take sides but asking you to rise up to the seriousness of the moment; move past the horserace numbers and the gotcha moments and the distractions, the sideshows that have come to dominate and sensantio- -- sensationalize our politics; and focus on what's actually at stake. I think, in your hearts, you know what's at stake. The stakes couldn't be higher.

Every single one of us has roles to play -- a serious role to play in making sure democracy endures -- American democracy. I have my role, but, with all due respect, so do you.

In the age of disinformation, credible information that people can trust is more important than ever. And that makes you -- and I mean this from the bottom of my heart -- it makes you more important than ever.

So, tonight, I'd like to make a toast.

To a free press, to an informed citizenry, to an America where freedom and democracy endure. God bless America.

Now, I'm going to turn it over to Kelly, then you'll hear from a real comedian.

I think I know what I'm in for. You know, Colin Jost has taken aim at me before with his jokes.

MS. O'DONNELL: Oh, I'm sure. You ready?

THE PRESIDENT: Like saying, "After winning the South Carolina primary, Biden barely edged out his closest rival: time."

Colin, when I win, I'm going to have a whole hell of a lot of time, and I'm going to be watching, pal.

Kelly, back to you.

8:22 P.M. EDT

April 28, 2024

At 10:45 AM ET, the Vice President will depart Washington, DC en route to Atlanta, GA. This departure from Joint Base Andrews will be pooled press.

At 12:25 PM ET, the Vice President will arrive in Atlanta, GA. This arrival at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport will be pooled press and open to pre-credentialed media.

At 2:45 PM ET, the Vice President will kick off her nationwide Economic Opportunity Tour with a moderated conversation about investing in communities, building wealth, and ensuring every American has the ability to thrive. This moderated conversation with Earn Your Leisure's Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings will be pooled press, open to pre-credentialed media, and livestreamed at WhiteHouse.gov/live.

At 3:50 PM ET, the Vice President will depart Atlanta, GA en route to Washington, DC. This departure from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport will be pooled press.

At 5:20 PM ET, the Vice President will arrive in Washington, DC. This arrival at Joint Base Andrews will be pooled press.

# # #

April 28, 2024

On Wednesday, May 1, the Vice President will travel to Jacksonville, FL to deliver remarks on the fight for reproductive freedoms. This campaign event will be pooled press and opened to pre-credentialed media.

April 28, 2024

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

In the afternoon, the President will depart the White House en route to Wilmington, Delaware. The President will then participate in a campaign event. After, the President will return to the White House.

Wednesday, May 1, 2024

In the afternoon, the President will participate in a campaign reception in Washington, D.C.

Friday, May 3, 2024

In the afternoon, the President will present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the country. The First Lady will attend.

After, the President and the First Lady will depart the White House en route to Wilmington, Delaware.

April 28, 2024

My Investing in America agenda will continue to create good jobs. This agreement is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and shows that we can build a clean energy economy with strong, middle-class union jobs.

April 28, 2024

Readout of President Joe Biden's Call with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel

President Biden spoke earlier today with Prime Minister Netanyahu. The President reaffirmed his ironclad commitment to Israel's security following the successful defense against Iran's unprecedented missile and drone attack earlier this month. They also reviewed ongoing talks to secure the release of hostages together with an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The President referred to his statement with 17 other world leaders demanding that Hamas release their citizens without delay to secure a ceasefire and relief for the people of Gaza. The President and the Prime Minister also discussed increases in the delivery of humanitarian assistance into Gaza including through preparations to open new northern crossings starting this week. The President stressed the need for this progress to be sustained and enhanced in full coordination with humanitarian organizations. The leaders discussed Rafah and the President reiterated his clear position.