Poland is planning a new tax on oil companies that will help smooth out the recent cuts to fuel taxes and VAT. The Finance Ministry said this move is part of a larger effort to keep the country on track with the European Union’s budget rules. The goal is to avoid falling into an excessive deficit si
Maryland is trying a bold plan that could change how health care works everywhere. The state uses an all‑payer system and a Total Cost of Care model to link money with real health results. It wants to see more people living longer and healthier lives while spending less. Families, companies, and th
The German government is quietly considering whether to relax strict borrowing rules if the situation in the Middle East disrupts trade flows. These rules, known as the "debt brake, " cap how much new debt the country can take on. While top leaders from the conservative party have firmly opposed any
On the last Monday of April, a meeting took place in Washington where the U. S. president and his security team reviewed a potential deal with Iran. The proposal suggests keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for oil shipments while postponing talks about Iran’s nuclear program. This idea aims to addres
Electricity isn’t just about plugging in anymore. It’s about keeping the lights on when millions flip on their air conditioners, charge their cars, or scroll through phones at night. The U. S. energy system is being pushed to its limits, not just by rising demand from sun-soaked states where people
Alaska’s school funding has dropped behind other states in a big way. While most states increased education spending by 26% from 2017 to 2022, Alaska only managed a 13% increase — barely enough to cover rising costs. Even when adjusted for Alaska’s high living expenses, the state still spends 15% le
The U. S. government will now examine the past statements and online activity of immigrants applying for permanent residency or citizenship more carefully. Officials say they will focus on speech or actions tied to extremism, including support for terrorism or violence against the country. But criti
China has quietly broadened its economic tools during a temporary pause in the U. S. trade dispute, setting up new limits on technology and supply chains before a summit next month. After leaders Xi Jinping and Donald Trump agreed in Busan to ease tensions, Beijing moved quickly to tighten controls
Cole Allen was no stranger to success. At 31, he held a master’s in computer science and had just been named “Teacher of the Month. ” Most people would see only the achievements on paper. But the attempted attack at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner changed everything. The way he saw the world
A Navy commander with two decades of service faced an impossible choice: retire early or lose benefits entirely. Michelle Bloomrose, a decorated officer confirmed for promotion to captain, never got to wear the new rank. Instead, she walked away because the government decided her identity made her u
