To combat over $100 million in annual direct deposit fraud, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will implement stricter identity verification measures starting March 31st. This necessitates in-person visits to field offices for new applicants and those changing direct deposit information, impacting those with limited online access or mobility. While the SSA aims to expedite direct deposit changes to one business day, concerns remain regarding the impact on accessibility, particularly given planned office closures and staff layoffs. Critics argue these changes create unnecessary obstacles for beneficiaries, potentially furthering privatization efforts.
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Minnesota Senator Justin Eichorn, a 40-year-old married father, was arrested for allegedly soliciting a minor for prostitution. This arrest occurred on the same day he sponsored a bill defining “Trump derangement syndrome” as a mental illness. Eichorn faces felony charges related to the solicitation, with the Bloomington Police Department actively processing the case. Police Chief Booker Hodges emphasized the seriousness of such offenses and called for stronger penalties.
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The Vancouver Auto Show will not feature Tesla vehicles this year. This decision follows Tesla’s continued refusal to participate in the event, a choice attributed to the automaker’s differing sales and marketing strategies. The absence marks a significant change for the show, as Tesla has been a popular draw in previous years. Organizers expressed disappointment but remain committed to showcasing a diverse range of vehicles.
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Canadian actress and entrepreneur Jasmine Mooney was detained for nearly two weeks in US immigration detention centers after her work visa was revoked. Held at the San Ysidro border crossing and subsequently transferred to Arizona, Mooney described inhumane conditions, including concrete cells with inadequate bedding and sanitation. Mooney, who had no criminal record, was ultimately released and returned to Canada. The circumstances surrounding the visa revocation and her detention remain unclear.
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Global investors dramatically shifted their portfolios in March, exiting US equities at an unprecedented rate and increasing their UK stock allocation to its highest point since June 2021. This move, making the UK the third most overweight sector for global investors, represents a significant reversal from the previous month’s assessment of the UK market as the least attractive. The shift is attributed to waning confidence in “US exceptionalism” and growing fears of a global trade war, leading to decreased global growth expectations and a surge in cash holdings. This reallocation also benefited European stocks, signaling a broader change in investment strategy.
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Canada has purchased Australia’s cutting-edge Jindalee Over-the-Horizon Radar (JORN) technology for $6.5 billion to bolster its Arctic defenses, a deal expedited by recent geopolitical events. This advanced radar system, capable of long-range surveillance of air and maritime threats, will significantly enhance Canada’s security cooperation with the US through NORAD. While the US had previously shown interest in JORN, Australia is now exploring further export opportunities, potentially including a major deal with the UK, as it diversifies its trade relationships. This sale represents a potentially record-breaking export for Australia’s defense industry.
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After a nine-month unscheduled extension to their mission, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams splashed down off the coast of Florida. Their journey, originally intended to test Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, was prolonged due to malfunctions with the Starliner, necessitating their extended stay aboard the ISS. During their time in space, they conducted numerous experiments and spacewalks. The astronauts’ return follows the arrival of their replacement crew and will be followed by health checks before they reunite with their families.
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Russian forces conducted airstrikes targeting energy infrastructure in Slovyansk, Donetsk region, resulting in power outages across parts of the city. Simultaneously, explosions rocked Kramatorsk, with reports indicating guided aerial bombs impacting residential areas. A military correspondent confirmed the use of aerial bombs in the Slovyansk attack. These strikes underscore the ongoing targeting of civilian infrastructure in eastern Ukraine.
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John Q. Hosedrinker