SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Several environmental groups are suing California air regulators over their recent update of a contentious climate program, saying they failed to address the pollution impacts of biofuels. The lawsuits target the low-carbon fuel standard , which requires California to reduce the environmental impact of transportation fuels by incentivizing producers to cut emissions. The California Air Resources Board voted last month to increase the state’s emission reduction targets, fund charging infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles, and phase out incentives for capturing methane emissions from dairy farms to turn into fuel. California, which often leads the nation on climate policy, plans to achieve so-called carbon neutrality by 2045 , meaning the state will remove as many carbon emissions from the atmosphere as it emits. The state has passed policies in recent years to phase out the sale of new fossil-fuel powered cars , trucks , trains and lawn mowers . One of the lawsuits filed this week, by the nonprofit Communities for a Better Environment, accuses the board of failing to thoroughly analyze the climate impacts of burning biofuels derived from plants and animal waste. Another, filed by Food and Water Watch, Central Valley Defenders of Clean Air and Water, and the Animal Legal Defense Fund, focuses on the impact of pollution often impacting low-income and Latino communities from the capture of methane from cow manure to turn into fuel . “People who live near refineries in California are harmed by the spiraling expansion of polluting biofuels,” but CARB failed to analyze the resulting harm to these communities, said a statement by Katherine Ramos, a program director at Communities for a Better Environment. Environmentalists say the LCFS program has stimulated the production of polluting biofuels, competing with food production and contributing to deforestation. They want California to focus more on expanding the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. The agency declined to comment on the lawsuits but said the program plays an important role in combating climate change and improving air quality. “The amendments channel global, national and local private sector investment towards increasing cleaner fuel and transportation options for consumers, accelerating the deployment of zero-emission infrastructure, and keeping the state on track to meet legislatively mandated air quality and climate targets,” Dave Clegern, a spokesperson for the board, said in an email. ___ Austin is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Austin on Twitter: @ sophieadannaStoli vodka files for bankruptcy in the United StatesNone
Supreme Court NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Monday took strong exception to bureaucrats' wives enjoying posts in societies functioning within the administrative jurisdictions of their husbands and said such practices, a product of colonial mindset , must be forthwith discarded. What irked a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan was the vindictive action indirectly taken by the district magistrate of Bulandshahr, where it had been a custom since inception in 1957 till 2019 to make the wife of the officiating district magistrate or his nominee hold the office of president of the Zila Mahila Samiti , Bulandshahr. The general body of the Samiti in Jan 2020 by a majority amended the bylaws and decided not to give its presidency to the DM's wife by recognising her only as a patron. This change was approved by the deputy registrar of societies. After election to all posts, including the president, was held in Sept 2022, the deputy registrar sent a show-cause notice based on a secret inquiry by the city magistrate, who alleged that articles of association of the Samiti were illegally amended to gobble up the property of the organisation. Appearing for the Samiti, senior advocate Tapesh Kumar Singh said the inquiry was conducted by the magistrate without summoning any office bearer or a visit to the Samiti office. Despite a detailed response, the deputy registrar on Feb 17, 2023, declared the amendments illegal without even granting a hearing to the parties. This order meant the DM's wife would continue to be president of the Samiti. The body moved Allahabad HC, which dismissed its plea. SC took umbrage and said, "Why does she want to hold the post of president of the Samiti based on her husband's position? If she wants to be the president of the Samiti, she should join politics and contest elections." Appearing for UP, additional solicitor general K M Natraj told SC, govt wants to get rid of this colonial mindset and sought its permission to do so in view of the HC order. "The colonial mindset of giving ex-official positions to family members of administrative authorities must be erased by bringing suitable amendments through a model bylaw that would clearly define the composition of the governing body of societies," SC said. It said it would make it mandatory for all societies, whether aided or not aided by the govt, to mandatorily follow the model bylaws, failing which they would be declared non-entities under the law. "Let an appropriate draft amendment/model bylaw be placed before the court in six weeks," the bench said, while restraining the Samiti to carry on its work without the DM's wife being part of the governing body.
FRISCO, Texas (AP) — The Dallas Cowboys are shutting down CeeDee Lamb with two games remaining after their 2023 All-Pro receiver spent the second half of the season dealing with a sprained right shoulder. The team said Thursday that additional exams revealed enough damage to keep Lamb off the field Sunday at Philadelphia and in the final game at home against Washington. The team said surgery was not expected to be required. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get any of our free email newsletters — news headlines, obituaries, sports, and more.New Jersey DUI Attorney Rachel Kugel Releases Article on the Impact of DUIs on CDL Holders 12-02-2024 11:26 PM CET | Politics, Law & Society Press release from: ABNewswire New Jersey DUI attorney Rachel Kugel ( https://thekugellawfirm.com/what-happens-if-you-get-a-dui-with-a-cdl-in-a-personal-vehicle/ ) of The Kugel Law Firm brings attention to the critical challenges faced by Commercial Driver's License (CDL) holders charged with driving under the influence (DUI). Whether the incident occurs in a personal vehicle or a commercial one, the consequences can disrupt careers, finances, and personal lives. Rachel Kugel, a prominent New Jersey DUI attorney, explains that CDL holders are held to stricter standards than other drivers. "Even a DUI conviction in a personal vehicle carries severe penalties for CDL holders, including a mandatory one-year suspension of their commercial license. These measures highlight the higher expectations placed on professional drivers to maintain public safety," Kugel states. A DUI conviction for a CDL holder can have immediate and long-term ramifications. As a New Jersey DUI attorney who has worked closely with affected drivers, Rachel Kugel underscores the far-reaching impacts, which include job loss, limited future employment opportunities, and the stigma of a criminal record. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for CDL holders driving commercial vehicles is just 0.04%, significantly lower than the 0.08% limit for non-commercial drivers. Rachel Kugel highlights that this threshold reflects the increased responsibility of CDL drivers and the potential dangers of impaired driving. For CDL holders, the stakes are high regardless of the type of vehicle involved. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations help ensure that DUI convictions, whether incurred in a personal or commercial vehicle, lead to immediate license suspension. As Rachel Kugel notes, "These consistent penalties further ensure accountability and reinforce the critical importance of safe driving at all times." A first DUI offense results in a one-year CDL suspension, extending to three years if hazardous materials are involved. Subsequent offenses can result in a lifetime ban, with reinstatement possible only under stringent conditions after ten years. The professional repercussions of a DUI conviction for CDL holders often go beyond the courtroom. Rachel Kugel explains, "Employers in the transportation industry frequently enforce zero-tolerance policies for DUI convictions. Many drivers find themselves terminated after an arrest, regardless of the legal outcome." Reemployment is another significant challenge. CDL holders with a DUI on their record may struggle to secure new positions in the industry, even after serving a suspension and fulfilling all legal obligations. For many, this can mean starting over in a new field, often at a lower income. Beyond career challenges, CDL holders also face increased insurance premiums, which can spike by as much as 80%, adding significant financial strain. Combined with fines, legal fees, and mandatory DUI programs, the economic toll of a conviction is often overwhelming. Rachel Kugel advises CDL holders charged with DUI to take immediate action to protect their livelihoods. Early intervention by a skilled legal advocate can often mitigate the severity of penalties and, in some cases, challenge the basis of the charges. Effective defense strategies for CDL holders include questioning the legality of the traffic stop, scrutinizing the accuracy of sobriety tests, and addressing any factors-such as medical conditions-that may have influenced BAC readings. Kugel emphasizes, "A strong legal defense can be the difference between career-ending consequences and a manageable outcome." For New Jersey CDL holders, the consequences of a DUI are both immediate and lasting. Rachel Kugel urges drivers to seek knowledgeable legal counsel as soon as possible to address the challenges of their cases. "Don't wait to take action," Kugel says. "A single mistake doesn't have to define your future, and there are legal paths to protect your career and your rights." About The Kugel Law Firm: The Kugel Law Firm is a New Jersey-based practice devoted to defending individuals charged with DUIs, including CDL holders. Led by attorney Rachel Kugel, the firm is committed to providing strategic and compassionate representation to safeguard its clients' rights and livelihoods. Embeds: Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfVASbAgtNI GMB: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=3822170752710866861 Email and website Email: admin@thekugellawfirm.com Website: https://thekugellawfirm.com/ Media Contact Company Name: The Kugel Law Firm Contact Person: Rachel Kugel Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=new-jersey-dui-attorney-rachel-kugel-releases-article-on-the-impact-of-duis-on-cdl-holders ] Phone: (973) 854-0098 Address:1 Gateway Center 2600 City: Newark State: New Jersey 07102 Country: United States Website: https://thekugellawfirm.com/ This release was published on openPR.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — , an environmental services company specializing in methane abatement operations, took numerous steps in 2024 to accelerate the Company’s profitability and commercial momentum. Specifically, Zefiro’s success over the past twelve months can be attributed to its execution of the Company’s strategy to expand its commercial footprint in critical marketplaces across North America and generate industry-leading, via an expanding, nationwide orphaned oil and gas well plugging operation. By actively advancing numerous strategic initiatives and bolstering its internal infrastructure throughout 2024, Zefiro is poised to remain at the forefront of the environmental services industry and reach yet another slate of notable accomplishments in the year ahead. The Company’s 2024 highlights include: Zefiro Founder and Chief Executive Officer Talal Debs commented, “From our plugging crews completing projects across the country to our expert team of carbon market specialists connecting with customers throughout the world, we have strived to invest in the resources needed to position each of our dedicated team members for success. The string of new milestones that we have been able to achieve over the past twelve months is directly linked to our senior management team’s commitment to that process, and I am incredibly proud that the progress that our team has earned in 2024 will guide our positive commercial momentum well into the future.” Zefiro Chief Financial Officer Mohit Gupta commented, “2024 has been a transformative year for Zefiro, and our ability to garner sustainable, increasing returns for our investors is a direct result of the unwavering dedication and expertise of our entire team. Through consistent execution of our comprehensive, client service-oriented strategy, we have established our position as a market leader, forged a consistent pipeline of project opportunities, and helped more communities safeguard public health.” Zefiro is an environmental services company, specializing in methane abatement. Zefiro strives to be a key commercial force towards Active Sustainability. Leveraging decades of operational expertise, Zefiro is building a new toolkit to clean up air, land, and water sources directly impacted by methane leaks. The Company has built a fully integrated ground operation driven by an innovative monetization solution for the emerging methane abatement marketplace. As an originator of high-quality U.S.-based methane offsets, Zefiro aims to generate long-term economic, environmental, and social returns. On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Company, “Talal Debs” Talal Debs, Founder & CEO Zefiro Investor Relations 1 (800) 274-ZEFI (274-9334) Rich Myers – Profile Advisors (New York) +1 (347) 774-1125 This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “seeks”, “believes”, “plans”, “expects”, “intends”, “estimates”, “anticipates” and statements that an event or result “may”, “will”, “should”, “could” or “might” occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information including statements regarding: the Company’s intention to reduce emissions from end-of-life oil and gas wells and eliminate methane gas; the Company’s partnerships with industry operators, state agencies, and federal governments; the Company’s expectations for continued increases in revenues and EBITDA growth as a result of these partnerships; the Company’s intentions to build out its presence in the United States; the anticipated federal funding for orphaned well site plugging, remediation and restoring activities; the Company’s expectations to become a growing environmental services company; the Company’s ability to provide institutional and retail investors alike with the opportunity to join the Active Sustainability movement; the Company’s ability to generate long-term economic, environmental, and social returns; and other statements regarding the Company’s business and the industry in which the Company operates. The forward-looking information reflects management’s current expectations based on information currently available and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed timeframes or at all. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: (i) adverse general market and economic conditions; (ii) changes to and price and volume volatility in the carbon market; (iii) changes to the regulatory landscape and global policies applicable to the Company’s business; (iv) failure to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals; and (v) other risk factors set forth in its Prospectus dated April 8, 2024 under the heading “Risk Factors”. The Company operates in a rapidly evolving environment where technologies are in the early stage of adoption. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is impossible for the Company’s management to predict all risk factors, nor can the Company assess the impact of all factors on Company’s business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including, but not limited to, the assumption that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The forward-looking information included in this news release is made as of the date of this news release and the Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Disclosures relating to investor relations firms retained by Zefiro Methane Corp. can be found under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at . A photo accompanying this announcement is available atWiikwemkoong Unceded Territories has taken a significant step toward energy sustainability with the launch of a groundbreaking Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure project. Approved by Wiikwemkoong Leadership, this initiative combines cutting-edge technology and renewable energy to benefit the community and environment. In collaboration with Vortex Technology Group and supported by key funding programs, the project includes the installation of Level 2 and Level 3 EV chargers alongside a revolutionary Battery Energy Storage Solution (BESS) at the community’s Recreational Complex. The launch event on November 27, 2024, was celebrated by Ogimaah Ominika and Vortex CEO Brian Walters. Ogimaah Ominika remarked, “When private sector companies partner and invest with Indigenous communities, the outcomes benefit technology, the environment, and the people.” The Vortex BESS technology, central to this initiative, offers unique advantages over traditional lithium-ion systems. Utilizing graphene-based, solid-state cells, the batteries are safer, longer-lasting, and faster-charging. They integrate seamlessly with the complex’s rooftop solar array, enabling EV charging and critical power supplies even during outages. This innovative design reflects Wiikwemkoong’s commitment to green energy and resilience. The project has been made possible through partnerships and funding from the IESO Indigenous Energy Support Program (IESP), NRCAN’s ZEVIP program, and in-kind contributions from Vortex. The IESP has supported over 170 Indigenous communities with $74 million since its inception, funding initiatives in renewable energy, storage systems, and microgrid development.The program underscores the role of Indigenous leadership in driving Ontario’s energy transition. Brian Walters highlighted, “This installation showcases how our technology can enhance EV charging and emergency power systems, reinforcing Wiikwemkoong’s leadership in sustainable innovation.” The project is more than infrastructure—it’s a vision for the future. The 24/7 accessible chargers will attract visitors to explore Wiikwemkoong’s cultural and ecological offerings while supporting a shift to cleaner transportation. By commissioning the chargers in mid-2025, the community will further its goals of environmental stewardship and energy independence. Wiikwemkoong’s initiative sets a national example, blending green innovation with cultural leadership to create lasting benefits for its people and the planet. -30- No media for this storyDaniel Jones Next Team Odds: Contenders jockeying for QB?
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