The U.S. fertility rate in 2024 experienced a marginal increase, with 3,622,673 babies born. The rate of 54.6 births per 1,000 women of reproductive age was slightly higher than the 2023 record low of 54.5. Still, the overall trend has been declining. The total births exceeded deaths by 576,104, highlighting the importance of maintaining the “replacement level” for population sustainability. (UPI)
Two federal judges issued rulings preventing Trump administration directives from penalizing public schools for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The National Education Association and ACLU filed a lawsuit, arguing the directives were vague and violated teachers’ First Amendment rights. The judges agreed, citing concerns about free speech violations and ambiguity. (AP)
President Trump criticized Russia’s strikes on Kyiv, calling the timing “very bad” amid peace talks and urging Putin to “STOP!” The attack killed at least eight and injured over 70, marking a deadly assault as negotiations stagnate. Trump expressed frustration with the ongoing conflict, signaling impatience with both Putin and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. (CBS News)
A 19-year-old man, Joseph Kling, was arrested for allegedly starting the massive wildfire in New Jersey that has consumed over 15,100 acres. He faces charges of aggravated arson and recklessly endangering structures by igniting an unattended bonfire. The fire has threatened 1,300 structures, with mandatory evacuations in place. (ABC News)
The Trump administration has withdrawn a Biden-era proposal to reduce Salmonella in raw poultry, saying it puts financial and operational burdens on American businesses. The proposed rule aimed to create new safety standards and overhaul procedures to prevent Salmonella contamination, but the Department of Agriculture deemed it ineffective. (NBC News)
