Around the Nation

Politics & Government

Democrats Move To Reinstate Assault Weapons Ban

12:04pm February 28, 2013

by David Welna

The Senate held its first hearing on an assault weapons ban Wednesday, with activists pushing for tighter gun regulations sharing a table with gun-rights activists. They are seizing on public outrage over the December gun massacre at a school in Connecticut.

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Sequester Cuts Could Affect Air Safety

12:04pm February 28, 2013

At a hearing on Capitol Hill Wednesday, FAA administrator Michael Huerta explained to lawmakers what the sequester means to the aviation industry. He said he has limited ability to avoid furloughs for key personnel, such as air traffic controllers. That could lead to delays for passengers and the closing of towers.

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Tooth Fairy Survey: Rate Went Up 15 Percent in 2012

12:04pm February 28, 2013

Illinois based provider Delta Dental says the gain is similar to the jump in the S&P 500. The average Tooth Fairy gift was just over $2.40.

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Princeton University To Give Away Free Homes

12:04pm February 28, 2013

The old houses, which have been used as offices, need to be taken off campus property to make room for a new art and transit project. Prospective owners will need to "pick up" their new home. While the houses are free, delivery is not included in the offer.

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Risser has his usual lunch of soup and beer at an Irish pub across from the state Capitol.

At 85, 'Old-School' Politician Shows No Signs Of Quitting

8:16pm February 27, 2013

by Ina Jaffe

Elected in 1956, Wisconsin state Sen. Fred Risser is the longest-serving state lawmaker in the country. He may not use Facebook, Twitter or email, but he's gotten a lot done over the years. Considered an "institution within an institution" by some, he was just re-elected for another four years.

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Children eat breakfast at a federally funded Head Start program. Many Head Start administrators are concerned they may have to cut back on the number of enrolled children if the sequester moves ahead.

Sequester Spells Uncertainty For Many Public Schools

5:57pm February 27, 2013

by Claudio Sanchez

Most public schools are unlikely to feel the effects of the sequester before September. But educators and administrators nationwide are worried they may be forced to cut Head Start enrollment, after-school programs, reading coaches and even teachers when those budget reductions hit.

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The Conservative Case For Same-Sex Marriage

11:15am February 27, 2013

Dozens of Republicans signed an amicus brief to the Supreme Court in support of gay marriage, just weeks before the Court is expected to hear arguments on a case challenging the legality of the Defense of Marriage Act. Some say this represents a significant shift within the Republican Party.

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Dear College Presidents: Break The NCAA's Vise Grip On Athletes

7:37am February 27, 2013

by Frank Deford

Student-athletes are really sucker-athletes under the organization's structure, says sports commentator Frank Deford. Will no college president speak the words that will break the organization's spell?

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Sequester Cuts Free Some Immigration Detainees

7:37am February 27, 2013

by Ted Robbins

Reaction is coming in after the Obama administration's unusual move releasing immigration detainees due to budget cuts. An Arizona sheriff is blasting the sequestration gridlock for undermining the safety of local communities. Immigrant rights groups, however, say it shouldn't take a budget crisis to do what they think is right.

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A nutrition specialist prepares a Meals on Wheels delivery in upstate New York. The national organization says the sequester could mean significant cuts in the number of meals they serve to homebound seniors.

Advocates Warn Sequester Could Mean Big Cuts For The Low-Income

7:05pm February 26, 2013

by Pam Fessler

Those who serve low- and middle-income people warn that cuts required by the looming sequester will hurt programs that many Americans rely on, like meals for seniors, heating assistance and nutritional aid for expectant mothers. But supporters of the sequester say those fears are overblown.

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