USA News

The Senate returned to Washington on Monday, resuming work after a five-week recess. Key items include procedural votes on cryptocurrency legislation and the Protect College Sports Act, amid ongoing discussions about regulatory measures for artificial intelligence and potential action on the Farm bill and surveillance authority.

The Justice Department has announced a crackdown on COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program fraud, resulting in charges against over 160 defendants and approximately $245 million in intended losses. The initiative, dubbed “Heartland fraud surge,” involved 44 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and targeted fabricated businesses and identity theft schemes.

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act has expired, compromising the government’s ability to collect foreign intelligence without a warrant. Its lapsed status may affect cooperation from telecommunications providers, though existing authorisations remain in effect until their predetermined expiration dates.

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