SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " transparency " 340 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Elections to top science bodies test Croatia’s gender equality in research
Croatia’s track-record on gender equality in science has been both questioned and lauded in recent months, following both bad and good news on the topic. On the one hand, a senior awards committee was announced without a single woman researcher included. On the other, the national science academy welcomed its first cohort of fellows with more women than men.Members of the committee, which gives national awards recognising scientific achievement, are proposed by the ministry of science and endorsed by the parliament. The current line-up does include a woman, but she is culture minister Nina Obuljen Koržinek rather than a researcher. Even then, she didn’t make it into the photograph released to announce the appointments on April 16. “The image speaks a thousand words,” says Tanja Rudež, a science journalist for Jutarnji List newspaper. “I am surprised that none of these men, all well-known scientists, saw a problem with the fact that there was not a single successful female scientist on the committee,” she told Science|Business.Ivan Đikić, a prominent Croatian biochemist based at Goethe University Medical School, commented on LinkedIn that the news illustrated a “sad truth” about the state of science in Croatia.“It [. . .] reveals a system where women, despite contributing a substantial share of high-quality, internationally competitive science, are systematically excluded from the very processes that determine recognition and influence,” he wrote. Some 60% of researchers in Croatia are women, according to the Croatian Bureau of Statistics, and they perform well in international competitions. For example, of the 12 European Research Council (ERC) grants awarded to Croatian researchers, seven went to women.“So how is it possible that decision-making bodies are still dominated by men over 60, while not a single female ERC laureate is involved in the selection process?” asked Đikić. “This is not a marginal oversight; it is a structural failure.” The ministry of science did not reply to a request for comment. The awards committee is not unusual. For example, a scientific advisory body announced by the ministry of demographics in April comprises 35 men and five women. The board of the Croatian Science Foundation, newly appointed by the parliament, is a little better, with five men and two women, but still unequal. “This is especially significant because such bodies do not merely distribute prestige. They shape research priorities, funding allocation and long-term scientific development,” Marija Lugarić, chair of the parliament’s committee on gender equality, told Science|Business. “Representation here matters not only symbolically, but materially.”Referring to the awards committee and the board of the science foundation, Lugarić says that while both bodies were appointed by parliament, neither met the minimum 40% gender balance threshold that Croatian law and EU guidelines expressly recommend for public bodies.Đikić wants to see EU institutions put pressure on the government to ensure basic standards of fairness, transparency and democratic governance in science policy are met. “Meaningful change will not come without pressure,” he wrote. “It must intensify both within Croatia and at the level of European institutions. Anything less undermines the credibility of Europe’s commitment to excellence and inclusion in science.”Rudež also underlined the importance of talking and writing about this topic, “because public opinion in Croatia does influence changes in the status and visibility of women in science.”The European Commission has not yet responded to a request for comment.Good news from the academyA more positive story came from the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts on 21 May, with the announcement of seven new women fellows and five men. This is the first time in the academy’s 165-year history that women have outnumbered men in a new intake.One of the new fellows, two-time ERC grantee Iva Tolić, credits the academy leadership with trying to be more modern and inclusive, representing the whole community better. “The academy is really aware that so far, before this election, there were very few women,” she told Science|Business. “So, they are actively trying to make this more equal.”Related articlesExplained: How the MSCA is close to achieving gender balanceCall for EU to leverage academic freedom in global talent raceRudež is more cautious, noting that despite the academy’s “breakthrough this year [. . .] it is still a predominantly male institution, with only 18% women.”This reflects a wider imbalance in Croatia’s research landscape. “The key levers of power in science are still in the hands of men,” she went on. “For example, all 14 rectors of private and public universities are men.”Similarly, Lugarić says a structural glass ceiling still exists in Croatian science, which is “most visible precisely where power is exercised.”She cites data from the Commission’s She Figures 2024 report, which shows that Croatia ranks second in the EU for gender equality in research and innovation overall, with an equality index of 79.6 out of 100. It is in the top five for women’s career advancement, participation in research; representation across all research sectors and for scientific publications.In stark contrast, it ranks second to last when it comes to women in decision-making positions in science. “This is not a coincidence,” Lugarić says. “It is a structural pattern.”Informal barriersThe persistent under-representation of women in the highest structures of Croatia’s academies, boards, award committees and leadership positions is not down to formal barriers, Lugarić says, but arises from more subtle obstacles such as “informal networks, persistent expectations regarding traditional gender roles and the unequal distribution of care responsibilities.”Tolić would like to see more support for young women in terms of affordable housing and child support, and higher salaries. Currently, she says, salaries in science stay low for the first 10-15 years, while housing and spaces in kindergarten are limited and expensive. “You have to work a lot, you get very little money, so it’s not great to have a family in this situation,” she says.But despite the challenges, Tolić is optimistic, saying that gender equality in research in Croatia is “definitely improving and going in the right direction.” The situation is particularly promising in biology, she adds, where most full professors, heads of department and deans of faculties are women. Lugarić, too, see the glass ceiling “very slowly, cracking,” and cites the academy election as an example that structural change is possible. Yet the situation in the national awards committee is a “stark reminder that without a conscious, systemic commitment to gender balance, progress will remain slow and uneven.”
Millions use chatbots for mental health. Accountability can’t wait.
Congress should ensure innovation aligns with the principles we expect in every corner of healthcare: safety, transparency, accountability and trust.
Xbox fan backlash to "PlayStation logos in the Showcase" isn't about gatekeeping
Everybody with a brain knows it takes five seconds to go online and find out whether a game is multiplatform. Microsoft's logo "transparency" simply has users doubting whether it's truly behind Xbox's long-term success.
Meitav Investment House Announces Immediate Report Concerning Selected Business Data for April 2026
Meitav Investment House (TASE: MTAV) announced today that further to the Company's immediate report dated March 2, 2026 (Reference No. 2026-01-019142) regarding the adoption of an ongoing monthly reporting mechanism for selected business data, material to its operations, with the objective of enhancing transparency of business operations and improving the information available to the investors, the Company is pleased to publish the data for April 2026.
The president’s health is the people’s business
Health transparency, affordability for seniors and more, in readers' eyes.
State budget deal includes auto insurance relief
Fraud, liability claims and transparency regarding how insurers set your rates — those are just some of the changes that are part of the budget.
Former Attorney General Pam Bondi hails Trump admin's 'justice and transparency' on Epstein files
In a prepared statement for her interview with a House committee, former U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi defended the Trump administration's release of the Jeffrey Epstein files .
Federal Rule Takes Aim at Health Care Bureaucracy, Reducing Dispute Fees, and Boosting Transparency
Major reforms were finalized today to strengthen the No Surprises Act.
Scientific Societies Launch “Trust Seal” to Strengthen Confidence in Science
Scientific societies and scholarly publishing organizations launch the Trust Seal, a new community-led initiative designed to strengthen confidence in science by supporting trustworthy publishing practices, transparency, and independent governance across the research ecosystem.
Ebola, chemical plants and health, hantavirus, common colds, heat and more
As they say, bugs have ears. Public health has had a relentless May. Chemical plant (near) explosions, Ebola, hantavirus, and that's before you even get to the usual suspects: common colds, heat, and ticks. Here’s an attempt to keep you up to speed and, more importantly, what it means for you and your community. But first, an announcement: World Cup The World Cup starts in 15 days (not like anyone is counting down), and we are hanging TVs in the Health Security Operations Center. It’s going to be a gorgeous, chaotic celebration of basically every culture on earth. And it’s going to take a team effort—from communities to individuals, from public health to health care—to keep people healthy. That’s where you come in. If you’re going to the games or live within 30 miles of a stadium, we would love to hear from you. Sign up for a weekly survey here. Thanks to the more than 1,280 people who have already signed up…you will be hearing from us soon!! Global disease “weather report” Hantavirus: Two more cases The global count of cruise ship passengers with hantavirus has now increased to 13 cases (11 confirmed), with three deaths. The two new cases are overseas and among people who were already quarantining: A crew member in the Netherlands. A Spanish national passenger who was quarantining at home tested positive through daily monitoring. They are now in a biocontainment unit. In the U.S., everyone remains negative. There may be more cases, given that the incubation period of hantavirus (the time from exposure to infection) is 45 days. But this week, we will reach a major milestone: the median incubation window is 18 days, and that will pass on May 29. What this means for you: Your risk from this cruise ship outbreak remains essentially nil at this point. Ebola rages on in Central Africa Big thanks to Dr. Craig Spencer, a humanitarian physician who has treated and survived Ebola, for jumping in to provide the YLE community with an update. Craig, take it from here… The combined confirmed and suspected Ebola cases in DRC are now more than 1,000. All signs are pointing to a very long and catastrophic outbreak in Central Africa: This is a vast undercount. We know this because the test positivity rate is hovering around 50%, only 20% of contacts are being traced (and in some areas, no contacts at all), and more cases keep popping up with no known connection. This all points to widespread and undetected community transmission. This is in only a week of detection. Compared to previous outbreaks, the growth is very fast, as the huge West Africa outbreak in 2016 was first detected at 49 cases and rose to 208 cases a month later. It took four months for that outbreak to reach the size of the current one in the DR Congo. The cases are spread out across 16 health zones. There are now multiple epicenters, making containment very difficult. Next door in Uganda, the case count is seven. While this number is low compared to DRC, a concerning development is that two health care workers recently tested positive with uncertain exposure histories. If they weren’t treating known Ebola cases, this means it’s spreading undetected in Uganda as well. On the ground, backlash, including the burning of health centers, has emerged, a pattern seen in nearly every outbreak and rooted in deep community distrust. It often stems from outside actors working in communities without fully understanding or addressing local priorities. Affected populations may recognize the severity of Ebola while still holding other concerns as more pressing, such as where their loved ones are buried. Community trust is essential to an effective response, but difficult to build during an active emergency. It is best established long before a crisis begins. U.S. priorities are made clear, and may backfire. The U.S. Administration has shown that its first priority is keeping Ebola out, with helping end the outbreak in the DRC a secondary concern. That's meant travel restrictions broader than anything we've imposed before — covering travelers from across the region, and reportedly some green card holders and permanent residents as well. For example, just these past two days, news broke that high-risk American travelers will be subject to a mandatory quarantine in Kenya before they are allowed to return. If an American is infected, the U.S. government plans to send them to a hospital it is standing up from scratch in Kenya. (Currently, Americans who were in the area are allowed to return but are diverted to three airports—Houston, Atlanta, and DC—for further screening.) Past administrations have used travel notices and stepped-up screening; this goes much further. At first blush, these strict precautions may sound prudent. But this approach could backfire in three ways: Restrictions this blunt give people every reason to hide where they’ve been and whom they’ve been near — making the people we most need to find harder to track, not easier. They also breed a false sense that this is someone else’s problem. But diseases are humbling. They find the small cracks in even the most impenetrable-seeming defenses. Lives lost. There is no treatment for this Ebola strain, which means survival depends heavily on the quality of the health system. We have that system in the States, but we are choosing not to use it for infected Americans. This is unbelievable and infuriating. (See a deeper dive from me here.) The only real way to lower the risk to Americans — and everyone else — is to end the outbreak in the DRC and across the region. What this means for you: If you have travel plans to this region, it’s time to cancel them. This is a high-risk situation in Central Africa, and CDC released a Level 4 Travel Advisory. There is also great uncertainty if and when the Administration will let you back in. To the general public in the U.S., your risk remains very, very low right now. U.S. disease “weather report” Ticks: past peak season? Good news, especially for people in the Northeast and Midwest: tick numbers continue to decline. Though we are at the peak of the season, this unusually early year is trending favorably. Heat-related illnesses in the North Heat risk is certainly not blanketing the entire country yet, but this week it will be moderate in the Midwest and the Southeast. What this means for you: Be sure to check the CDC HeatRisk tool. A red day isn’t the best day for that soccer game for a kid with asthma, and a stretch of orange days is a great time to check on your elderly neighbor. Common colds surging As far as respiratory viruses go, the only thing really going around right now is the common cold. It is higher this year than last year, but should peak very soon before returning this fall. Spotlight: Chemical plants Over the weekend, YLE California covered the serious situation that unfolded around a chemical plant in Orange County, California. Thankfully, the worst-case scenario (a chemical explosion) was mitigated, but only through luck. The health implications in a densely populated area could have been catastrophic. As the situation was winding down, another chemical explosion struck Washington State. This one was fatal. Health officials say the risk to surrounding residents from chemicals in the air and ground remains low, though the community deserves far greater clarity. Clean air and clean water consistently rank as Americans’ top public health concerns — yet when chemical disasters strike, communities are too often met with reassurances rather than transparency and accountability. Residents near the 2023 East Palestine, Ohio train derailment, for example, are still waiting to understand the long-term impact on their health, with few clear answers. What this means for you: Many are wondering if facilities processing potentially dangerous materials are in their neighborhoods. This interactive map allows you to enter your ZIP code and see all facilities monitored by the EPA, including any violations. Good news Ebola vaccines and treatment for the Bundibugyo species are in development. Two vaccine platforms are being explored, at least one of which may be deployable in as little as 2 months. One vaccine is being developed by Oxford, and the other uses the same biotechnology as the FDA-approved Zaire species of Ebola. (It may provide cross-protection, but it’s unclear at this point.) On the treatment side, two promising monoclonal antibody cocktails are likely to be deployed, though doses are limited and logistical hurdles remain significant challenges. Anni over at The Biotech Tea had a great explainer about the Ebola vaccine gap, if you want to read more. [ The Biotech Tea The Ebola vaccine gap, reading vessel damage, & the Makary exit 🗝️ Paid subscribers get the Biotech Term of the Week at $30/year (~$2.50/month). I try to keep it intentionally accessible, but if cost is ever a barrier, send me a message. A few people asked about expensing your subscription, so I put together a short email template… Read more 6 days ago · 10 likes · Annicka Evans, PhD ](https://www.thebiotechtea.com/p/the-ebola-vaccine-gap-reading-vessel?utm_source=substack&utm_campaign=post_embed&utm_medium=web) Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been officially renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), following more than a decade of debate and input from roughly 22,000 clinicians, researchers, and patients worldwide. This is good because the old name was medically misleading, leading to patients without visible cysts being dismissed or overlooked entirely. The WHO estimates that 70% of people with the condition remain undiagnosed. A more accurate name should improve recognition, reduce stigma, and ultimately help the millions of people living with this condition get diagnosed and treated sooner. Poll Loading... Bottom line Public health situations are everywhere right now. Staying healthy takes public health professionals and systems working tirelessly behind the scenes and each of us showing up for our neighbors and communities. Love, YLE Big thanks to Ed Nirenberg for staying on top of the Ebola vaccines, Hannah Totte for all the figures, Dr. Craig Spencer for the Ebola insight, and Dr. Matt Willis for covering the chemical situation in CA. Your Local Epidemiologist (YLE) comprises a team of experts, ranging from physicians to immunologists to epidemiologists to nutritionists, working together with one goal: to “Translate” ever-evolving public health science so that people are well-equipped to make evidence-based decisions. YLE suite of newsletters reaches over 475,000 people across more than 132 countries. This newsletter is free to everyone, thanks to the generous support of fellow YLE community members. To support the effort, subscribe or upgrade below: Subscribe
Bill banning Erie County businesses from using biometrics signed into law
The "Biometric Transparency and Privacy Act" prohibits the collection of biometric identifier information in commercial settings in Erie County.
Protecting Purchased Goodwill: Sale-of-Business Restrictive Covenants Under National Scrutiny
Restrictive covenants entered in connection with the sale of a business occupy a different place than ordinary employment noncompetes. In a sale transaction, the buyer is not simply trying to limit a former employee’s next job. The buyer is paying for goodwill, customer relationships, confidential information, and the seller’s promise not to immediately undermine the value of what was sold.
The IX Sports Podcast | Why Caitlin Clark’s injury scratch matters and early reactions to the Toronto Tempo
On today's podcast the hosts discuss injury transparency related to Caitlin Clark's late scratch and the current state of the Toronto Tempo.
House lawmakers seek more AI transparency from the SBA
The House Small Business Committee advanced a bill requiring the SBA to deliver an annual report on its AI use, weeks after the GAO revealed issues with the agency’s inventory compliance.
Bipartisan push to crackdown on fraudulent campaign donations
Rep. Bryan Steil says his Campaign Finance Transparency Act updates the law for the digital age.
How to cover a Legislature that does its business in private
Minnesota Legislature transparency questions: when do the lines between political performance and consequential legislation intersect?
PLOS One marks 20 years of advancing rigorous, multidisciplinary open science
PLOS One, the multidisciplinary open access journal published by PLOS, is marking 20 years of publishing research grounded in scientific rigor, transparency, and ethical practice. Since its launch in 2006, PLOS One has provided a platform for research to be shared, examined, and built on, across disciplines and around the world.
MICC kicks off 2026 small business engagement, offers one-on-one sessions
The U.S. Army Mission and Installation Contracting Command kicks off its 2026 Advanced Planning Briefing for Industry May 18, bringing together contracting professionals, small business representatives and industry partners for a week long engagement focused on transparency, innovation and Army readiness. Hosted May 18-22 virtually by MICC’s Office of Small Business Programs, the 2026 APBI began with day one briefings from senior Army and MICC leaders, including MICC Commanding General Brig. Gen. Freddy Adams and MICC Deputy to the Commanding General Clay Cole. Attendees also heard from the Department of the Army Office of Small Business Programs, representatives from MICC’s Office of Small Business Programs and leaders from the 418th Contracting Support Brigade, 419th Contracting Support Brigade, the Field Directorate Office at Fort Eustis and the Field Directorate Office at Fort Sam Houston.
NYC Council trying to ease storefront gate transparency law's impact on business
The Long Fight for Small Business Lending Transparency Is Not Over » NCRC
Small businesses play a vital role in the US economy, but their ability to access credit has been a longstanding obstacle to their viability. Additionally, the CFPB's recent final revised rule implementing Section 1071 of the Dodd-Frank Act that effectively cuts small business lending reporting requirements could lead to more lending disparities for women and BIPOC entrepreneurs.
macOS 27: Two More Changes Leaked Ahead of WWDC Next Month
macOS 27 will have a "slight redesign" compared to macOS Tahoe, along with an option to automatically group tabs in Safari, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. In his Power On newsletter today, Gurman said the design changes will help to address some of the criticism surrounding macOS Tahoe's new Liquid Glass interface. In particular, the changes should improve overall readability. "Apple aims to address the shadows and transparency quirks," he said.
Trump admin proposes letting companies report earnings only twice a year
Opponents of the proposal say it could reduce transparency and accountability in corporate America.
Keeping Prices Secret In Healthcare Is Apparently Good For Business
Those with a vested interest in the status quo, are resisting transparency regulations. After all, maintaining opaque pricing in healthcare has been profitable to them.
‘The Public’s Science’ initiative seeks to reimagine the science research ecosystem
The new effort will bring together a broad range of voices to create scholarship and policy recommendations for reorienting science research toward excellence, justice, transparency, and democratic participation.
California Politics 360 Full Episode | High-speed rail project facing delays
This week, the authority delayed a vote on the project’s latest business plan. State lawmakers and officials warn the plan lacks transparency, key cost information and violates state law.
The politics of Trump's ballroom
WEST PALM BEACH, Florida — President Trump was about a half-hour into his second speech of the day, musing about the danger he faced last week at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. “Saturday night, it was good for one thing. People are loving my ballroom now,” Trump told a crowd last night. “That’s the only thing. They love my ballroom.” Ever since he was hustled off stage at the Washington Hilton last week, after an attempted shooter breached the dinner’s security perimeter and sent guests diving to the floor, the president has argued that the incident is proof for why his White House ballroom is needed. Only his planned $400 million, 90,000-square-foot project, Trump has reasoned, can keep a president truly safe at major events. It’s true that a bunch of GOP lawmakers have jumped on board with new legislation and words of support for Trump’s project. House Speaker Mike Johnson, Sen. Rand Paul and other prominent Republicans went on TV to talk about the need for a ballroom. But as we reported at The Washington Post this week, “people” aren’t really changing their minds on Trump’s ballroom. A new Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll found that most Americans still oppose the ballroom project: 56 percent against it versus 28 percent in favor. The numbers are the same as a poll from last year, the Post’s polling whiz Scott Clement found. Other new polls have found similar margins, too. “I’m just not a giant fan, especially of extravagance,” one independent voter told me. “I mean, in the era we’re in right now, given how much people are struggling, it just doesn’t make a lot of sense to me to spend $400 million on a ballroom.” How we got here The Washington Post has followed Trump’s ballroom project very closely. (My colleague Jonathan Edwards may have written the most total words of any reporter about the project; I may be second.) The project exploded as a national issue after Trump tore down the White House’s East Wing after initially promising not to touch it.1 Historic preservationists sued, and about a month ago, a federal judge ordered a halt to ballroom construction.2 The only way the ballroom could proceed, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled, was if Congress explicitly authorized Trump’s plans. (An appeals court has stayed Leon’s order for now.) The judge’s ruling raised an obvious question: would Congress authorize the project? Keep in mind, “authorization” doesn’t mean that Congress needs to necessarily fund the planned $400 million project; they could just sign off on the private donations that Trump has solicited to pay for the ballroom.3 But GOP lawmakers really didn’t want to talk about the ballroom, we reported at The Post just a few weeks ago. One major reason was the ballroom’s bad polling — not a small detail with many of their own midterm elections looming. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner incident, and Trump’s advocacy, may have changed the political conversation around the ballroom. As this week’s polling shows, it doesn’t seem to have affected the fundamental questions surrounding the project. To put it another way, voters still say that cost-of-living concerns are top-of-mind heading into the midterms. Some Republican and independent voters have told me that they see the ballroom as a vanity project that will help Trump but do nothing for their own lives. It might not help Republicans that Trump has dismissed some of the cost-of-living concerns. He’s described “affordability” as a buzzword manufactured by Democrats whose policies helped cause inflation. “They’ve got one good line of bullshit,” Trump said in his first speech yesterday, delivered at a Florida retirement community known as The Villages. Thanks for reading Dan Diamond's newsletter! Subscribe for free to stay up-to-date on my work. Subscribe Speaking of Trump’s speeches… I’m down in Florida because it’s my “duty week” as a White House reporter — basically, I follow the president wherever he goes. (And then hand the baton off to one of my Washington Post colleagues next week.) As part of my duty week, I’ve spent a few days covering the White House’s reaction to Saturday’s attempted shooting, including officials’ review of the security protocols to protect the president. Trump was restrained in the wake of the incident, addressing the nation from the White House briefing room about the need for peaceful dialogue and trying to lower the temperature. But he’s clearly been itching to get back out of the White House, and I was curious to hear how his Florida speeches would go. And — to my ears — it was an unburdened Trump. Not the one we saw Saturday night in the White House briefing room, but the one we witnessed on the campaign trail in 2024. Loose, dropping profanities, mocking everyone, including members of his team. “We have a man here who knows more about Medicaid, Medicare, medical crap than any human being. Where’s Dr. Oz? Where the hell are you, stand up,” Trump said, referring to Mehmet Oz, the administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. “It’s the most boring trip I’ve ever made. He’s telling me about Medicare, Medicaid. All I want to do is take care of you, I don’t care. I said, ‘You work out the details.’” I wrote up the speech, as Trump headed to West Palm Beach to deliver more remarks a few hours later. The White House didn’t like my story. Their rapid-response team called it the work of a “total loser”4 and “a miserable TDS-ridden moron.” You can be the judge of whether it’s a fair story or the product of someone afflicted with “TDS.” (The White House’s shorthand for “Trump Derangement Syndrome.”) I’ve pasted the story below with a gift link, meaning that you don’t need to be a Washington Post subscriber to read it. It might prompt you for an email address, though. Meanwhile, I’ll be down in Florida for the rest of the weekend, covering the president. It’s TBD whether those stories will be deemed TDS-afflicted, too. 1 Jonathan details the past six months of ballroom fallout, reactions and the implications for executive authority here. I also had a great time talking about Trump’s ballroom and other projects with Australia’s ABC News Daily on a podcast this week. 2 The judge allowed underground construction and national security-related work to continue. But that hasn’t been enough for Trump, who says the ballroom itself is essential for his protection. 3 The ballroom donors include companies like Palantir, Google and Amazon. For transparency, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post, where I work. No one has ever interfered with our team’s coverage of the ballroom or our mentions of Amazon or Bezos, and if that changed, I’d speak out. 4 To be fair, I’ve spent the morning working on stories and writing this Substack post rather than enjoying the beautiful Florida weather. So they may be onto something about who’s winning and who’s losing.
Texas House committee reconvenes hearing on health care affordability
Texas lawmakers will continue digging into healthcare transparency across the state on Friday as frustrations grow over the cost of healthcare.Lawmakers are exp
For Patients, Transparent Healthcare Prices Won’t Lower Out-Of-Pocket Costs
If increased transparency isn’t the answer, what could meaningfully lower patients’ out-of-pocket costs? Reduced prices of care throughout all of healthcare would help.
Key US science panels are being axed - and others are becoming less open - College of Arts and Sciences
A Nature analysis shows that the Trump administration has terminated more than 100 advisory committees to science agencies — and reduced the transparency and independence of those that remain. … “I would hope that in the future, in this administration … Read more
UNM Health Sciences Library & Informatics Center Partners with Department of Neurosciences to Promote Greater Rigor and Reproducibility in Research
The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center has won a three-year $2.6 million federally funded grant intended to bolster the transparency, rigor and reproducibility of HSC research. The initiative, funded by the National Institute of...
UNM Health Sciences Library & Informatics Center Partners with Department of Neurosciences to Promote Greater Rigor and Reproducibility in Research
The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center has won a three-year $2.6 million federally funded grant intended to bolster the transparency, rigor and reproducibility of HSC research. The initiative, funded by the National Institute of...
California High-Speed Rail Authority's latest business plan violates state law, raises many questions
The California High Speed Rail Authority Board on Wednesday delayed a vote on the project's proposed business plan as state lawmakers and officials warn the plan lacks transparency, key cost information and violates state law.
FTC crackdown pushes auto dealers to treat compliance as a core business function
Industry experts discuss the FTC crackdown, dealer transparency and how compliance, culture and pricing strategy impact M&A and valuation.
Turn ambulatory care into a health system growth engine
Learn how health systems can use ambulatory governance, transparency and accountability to protect margin and drive sustainable growth.
Elevating Transparency: Introducing the Palo Alto Networks SASE Health Portal
As enterprises accelerate toward hybrid work and multi-cloud adoption, SASE has become the foundation for delivering secure, seamless access everywhere.
Iowa Senate blocks confirmation of Larry Johnson as director of Health and Human Services
Iowa Senate Democrats voted against confirming Gov. Kim Reynolds' pick to lead the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, citing transparency concerns.
Holland & Knight Health Dose: April 21, 2026 | Insights
Senate HELP Committee Chair Bill Cassidy released a healthcare agenda to expand TrumpRx, increase price transparency and regulate pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).
#MeToo-era NDA bans and pay transparency laws may be backfiring
The #MeToo movement ushered in a wave of workplace reforms like NDA bans and pay transparency mandates. They may have made things worse for women.
Miranda Kerr: Ingredient transparency isn’t just about beauty
The model and founder of KORA Organics chats with Know Your Value founder and "Morning Joe" co-host Mika Brzezinski ahead of a special Earth Day event in Los Angeles.
Taxpayer advocates back Trump push for medical price transparency in federal plans
Trump admin pushes health price transparency for federal workers; advocates support it, while industry leaders raise privacy concerns.
Trump admin seeks health-care price transparency
(The Center Square) - Taxpayer advocates are applauding the Trump administration over its efforts calling for medical price transparency in federal employee health-care plans while health-care industry leaders are pushing
Effort to bridge divide between moderate, liberal Democrats in the Colorado legislature falls apart
A transparency bill sponsored by Opportunity Caucus leaders and progressives has stalled. In its place, a new bill, sponsored only by more progressive Democrats, was introduced Friday
Council demands more transparency from Mayor Mamdani on mental health response program
The City Council on Thursday passed legislation that requires the mayor’s office to submit regular reports tracking the performance of B-HEARD.
Transparency is one of best ways to hold politicians accountable: OpenTheBooks CEO
OpenTheBooks CEO John Hart discusses the need for transparency regarding federal fraud and an audit highlighting the delinquency of IRS workers regarding taxes on 'Varney & Co.'
In the Katzmann Lecture, Senator Andy Kim takes aim at political corruption
Last year’s edition of Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, which gauges countries’ perceived resistance to corruption, gave the United States its lowest score since the index’s current scale debuted in 2012. That result likely would not surprise US Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey, who focused on corruption in politics when he delivered the fifth annual Robert A. Katzmann Lecture on April 6. The event honors the career and impact of the late Judge Katzmann of the US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, a professor of practice at NYU Law.
State lawmakers question DPI officials over transparency concerns
The hearing stemmed from a 2024 workshop on standardized testing held by DPI and a private vendor.
Apple, Google Offer ‘Nudify’ Apps Despite Policies Against Them
Apple Inc. and Google have continued to offer mobile apps that let users make nonconsensual sexualized images of people despite their policies prohibiting such content, according to a report published Wednesday by the Tech Transparency Project.
Cuba: Authorities must now release those detained for political reasons and end repression
Amnesty International warns that recent prisoner releases in Cuba continue to be marked by discretion and a lack of transparency, and demands an end to political repression.
NBAA Welcomes House Approval of ALERT Act
NBAA welcomed approval by the House of Representatives of the Airspace Location and Enhanced Risk Transparency (ALERT) Act, H.R.7613.
Infantino’s FIFA: Ten years of power, politics, and so-called ethics
Gianni Infantino promised reform, transparency, accountability, and a “new FIFA.” Ten years on, Infantino’s FIFA is instead defined by political proximity, weakened scrutiny, and an increasing alignment with state power at the highest levels.
MSU transparency proposal for sports nonprofit gets pulled over dissent
The resolution would require that materials from any entity the university's administration created could be accessed by the public and the trustees.
California’s crisis in rural health care is also a chance for transparency
Drug discounts aimed at rural hospitals serving uninsured or low-income patients actually profit hospitals that don’t serve those patients.
Parents question safety, transparency in a St. Johns County youth sports organization
UC Berkeley students express transparency concerns in computer science comprehensive review process
UC Berkeley students attempting to add the computer science major have been navigating an uncertain comprehensive review process this year.
A more transparent, connected experience in Web of Science Research Assistant
The latest Web of Science Research Assistant update introduces a unified entry point, greater AI transparency, and new author and visualization tools that enhance the user experience.
RFK Jr. launching podcast in ‘transparency’ push
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is launching a podcast that, in his words, will focus on “telling the truth, especially when it’s uncomfortable” and R…
RFK Jr. is launching a podcast to expose ‘lies’ that have made Americans sick
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is launching a new podcast that he says will begin “a new era of radical transparency in government,” according to a teaser video first obtained by The Associated Press.
Health care transparency, a win in new federal law
A new federal legislation requires providers to identify where care occurred, improving billing transparency and reducing costs
What do Americans want from their health information sources?
Most Americans say medical training, transparency and clarity matter most for health information sources.
'Your doctor, your price': Byron Donalds rolls out health care plan
'We're going to make sure that there is transparency in health care.'
Public higher education is the people’s business
Transparency and accountability have long been the hallmarks of government and should be of the state’s flagship university as well.
State audit critical of financial operations, oversight at Western Regional OTB
The audit reveals that "board members have allowed a system with a lack of transparency, documentation or oversight," Tom DiNapoli stated.
Florida Communities Certification Association launches to improve condo transparency, safety, cost
Consider it the 'CarFax of condos.'
Cardinal Health recognized by industry peers for leadership in supplier transparency and resiliency
Recognition from Healthcare Industry Resilience Collaborative (HIRC) based on healthcare providers’ nominations. Our Global Medical Products and Distribution (GMPD) business was presented with...
Democrats Examine Elon Musk’s Role in Suspension of Business Disclosure Law
Lawmakers have asked the Treasury Department for information on how Mr. Musk may have influenced the decision to end enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act.
Get to know Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Mary Spicuzza
Mary Spicuzza, a Milwaukee native, has been covering politics and other issues for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel since 2015.
Know your exposure story: military to provide access to individual occ
In a significant move toward greater transparency and health care empowerment, the Military Health System is urging service members to "Know Your Exposure Story." Starting March 23, 2026, U.S. service
Democratic lawmakers highlight pay gap; business group raises concerns on wage transparency bill
Democratic lawmakers marked Equal Pay Day on Thursday by highlighting persistent wage disparities in Connecticut while backing legislation that would require employers to disclose salary ranges and benefits in job postings.
I’m still fighting for honest health care transparency
Opinions from across America, powered by the Washington Post
Price tags for patients: I’m still fighting for honest health care transparency
The Patients Deserve Price Tags Act would provide price transparency in the health care system, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their care and reducing costs for employers and fa…
Poll: Mass. Legislature underwater in court of public opinion
Massachusetts residents highly prize transparency and want to see an audit of the Legislature, the poll found.
A new era for understanding mental health with smartphone-derived digital traces
Nature Health - Smartphones offer a way to understand our lives and health through digital tracing, but trust, transparency and value of information exchange need to be preserved — which is...
SKF announces new business segments and releases restated figures
SKF today announces the introduction of a new segment reporting structure, effective from Q1 2026. The purpose of these changes is to reflect the Group's strategic focus and to provide increased transparency ahead of the planned separation of the Automotive business. SKF is also publishing restated financial information for the new segments for 2024 and 2025.
How AI‑Driven ELNs Are Becoming the Center of Scientific Reasoning
Embedding AI agents in ELNs and LIMS brings reasoning directly into research. Using validated tools and clear audit trails, scientists accelerate discovery while maintaining governance, transparency, and accountability.
Colorado’s election audits are built on math, not politics
By Amanda Gonzalez You don’t build a secure election system overnight. You build it over years — layer by layer — reinforcing it with stronger safeguards, better technology and more transparency. In Colorado, one of those safeguards is a little-known but critically important process called a Risk-Limiting Audit (RLA). It’s math-driven, public and one of […]
Governor signs medical malpractice reform, other health care bills into law - Office of the Governor
LOS LUNAS, N.M. — Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham today signed several bills that will transform New Mexico’s health care system by reforming medical malpractice law, health care affordability, patient billing transparency and hospital funding and more. The bills — HB 99, HB 4, HB 306 and SB 101, among others — represent a historic milestone […]
Colorado Democrats, Republicans fight over ballot fiscal information
Republicans and Democrats clashed anew over legislation that would require identifying which programs would see a funding reduction if a ballot measure passed, with the former saying it’s yet another way for the government to control the campaign narrative and the latter insisting it provides transparency to voters. House Bill 1084, sponsored by Denver Democratic […]
Apple Music to add Transparency Tags to distinguish AI music, says report
The label or distributor has to opt into tagging their music as AI, however, so it's unclear how effective this intervention will be.
Apple Music launches AI transparency tags — but only if labels and distributors declare them
The move was announced in a newsletter distributed to industry partners this morning (March 4).
Colorado’s new parks and wildlife director promises transparency, science-based wildlife decisions and more wolves
Laura Clellan shared her plans during a ranging interview with The Colorado Sun Feb. 27
Colorado single-payer study lacks transparency
Coloradans have a right to expect transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility from public institutions. Unfortunately, the ongoing single-payer health care study commissioned last year under SB25-45 is raising more questions than answers. Despite repeated warnings from voters and prior analyses, the Colorado School of Public Health is moving forward with a new single-payer study that […]
R.I. legislators take aim at private equity in health care
The legislation would create a “transparency and early warning” system that could potentially prevent private equity from buying up R.I. hospitals in the future.
EPA mercury rollback raises health and transparency concerns in North Carolina
The Environmental Protection Agency's mercury rollback is raising health and transparency concerns in North Carolina.
PBM reforms promise relief for NC’s independent pharmacies
Federal and state actions seek transparency and fair reimbursements from pharmacy benefit managers, as rural communities lose local drugstores.
Epstein files: Truth, accountability and a million new conspiracy theories
The Epstein files were supposed to be an exercise in government transparency, but they have also spawned their own opaque subgenre of conspiracy theories.
Metro district legislation provides pragmatic, meaningful solution
By Sam Nizam Colorado needs more transparency and accountability in government… at all levels. And during the 2025 legislative session, one such bill made it through the process, improving transparency at the closest local level: metro districts. House Bill 25-1219, sponsored by Reps. Jacque Phillips and Carlos Barron and Sens. Kyle Mullica and Lisa Frizell, […]
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU - U.S. Embassy in Madagascar
United States and Madagascar to Implement $175 Million Five-Year Health MOU U.S. and Malagasy health officials are convening in Antananarivo for a two-day joint review process, marking the first major step in implementing the strategic health cooperation framework established in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in December 2025. The MoU outlines the structure and terms of U.S. support to Madagascar’s health sector from 2026 through 2030, with a total commitment of $134,305,000 from the U.S. Government and $41,216,252 from the Government of Madagascar working jointly to address malaria, maternal and child health, polio and global health security issues. This approach reflects the America First Global Health Strategy by prioritizing effective, results-driven cooperation that advances mutual health security and supports Madagascar’s progress toward self-reliance and independence from foreign assistance. The events bring together U.S. Government health experts and Madagascar’s Ministry of Public Health leadership to conduct a comprehensive review of seven major health programs currently supported by United States funding, discussing current activities, and developing recommendations for programs to align with the signed Memorandum of Understanding, which advances both the America First Global Health Strategy and the Government of Madagascar’s goals. “This memorandum sets the course for U.S. strategic cooperation and support to Madagascar’s health sector over the next five years,” said Chargé d’Affaires Stephanie Arnold at the workshop’s opening. This review will help determine how to maximize the effectiveness and impact of these programs, ensuring resources provided by U.S. taxpayer dollars are used wisely,” she added. “By working together to address global health challenges, we demonstrate America’s leadership and commitment to a safer, healthier world, making both the United States and Madagascar healthier and stronger.” Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States is implementing a Global Health Strategy for foreign assistance that emphasizes increased host country ownership, resilient health systems and human resource capacity to reduce dependency, maintaining frontline support to reduce infectious disease threats, and strong performance monitoring systems for accountability and service delivery. “Diseases do not respect borders, and when we support Madagascar’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to infectious disease threats, we are contributing to global health security that benefits communities both here and in the United States,” Arnold emphasized, noting that “The MoU represents a commitment to transparency, accountability, and results.” The United States recognizes the commitment of Malagasy leadership in prioritizing investment of time and significant resources on the healthcare of their own citizens. With recent changes in leadership, Madagascar has an opportunity to strengthen governance, improve performance, and move forward toward greater self-reliance, particularly in the healthcare sector. Through strategic focus and thoughtful collaboration under this MoU, U.S. health programs in Madagascar will deliver meaningful results that advance both countries’ interests while supporting Madagascar’s journey toward greater self-reliance and a healthy future.
Finley: MSU sports deal stinks to high heaven
Michigan State University is striking one of the heaviest blows against transparency and accountability this state has ever seen.
RFK Jr. pledged more transparency. Here's what the public doesn't know anymore
Health experts say the federal government now shares less public health data, even after Robert F Kennedy Jr. promised “radical transparency.”
Parents demand transparency as Benton Elementary health violations raise funding questions
Concerns continue about conditions inside an elementary school in Polk County after a state health inspection uncovered multiple violations, including sewage od
Trump Required Hospitals To Post Their Prices for Patients. Mostly It’s the Industry Using the Data.
Politicians have pushed for price transparency in health care. But instead of patients shopping for services, it’s mostly health systems and insurers that are using the information, as fodder for negotiations over pay.
Ranarda Jones on How Healthcare and Insurance Costs Move Through the System and What Transparency Should Look Like Today
Ranarda Jones, CEO of PSyn, believes that clarity is becoming a business necessity.
Windows 11 is getting a big security update
Windows 11's next act? Lock it down by default and make every app ask nicely first, tightening control, boosting transparency, and curbing unwanted changes.
RFK Jr. pledged more transparency. Here’s what the public doesn’t know anymore
Health experts say the federal government now shares less public health data, even after Robert F_ Kennedy Jr_ promised “radical transparency.”.
Bondi, Massie spar over Epstein files redactions
Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Crescent Springs, told Bondi that her department’s compliance with his bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act was a “massive failure."
Hospitals are posting prices for patients. It's mostly industry using the data
The Trump administration pushed for price transparency in health care. But instead of patients shopping for services, it's mostly health systems and insurers using the information for negotiations.
Public faith in politics is now in the gutter. Here’s how Labour should drag it out
With Britain sliding down the index of transparency and voters angry, the looming election bill fails to confront the real issues, says Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee