Stories from United States

A multi-billion dollar settlement is paying claims for individuals exposed to weed killers. Lawsuits claim exposure causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma or blood cancer. The cancer can manifest 10 to 15 years after exposure. The settlement allows for claims to be filed for up to 21 years. Potential payouts range from $6,000 to $165,000 or more per person. Illinois is set to receive nearly $150 million from the settlement. The funds are intended to address the impact of the opioid crisis in the state.

Anthropic executives decided to withhold the Mythos software from the general public to share it selectively with big tech companies, banks, and AI rivals. The software was intended as an update to the Claude large language model rather than a dedicated cybersecurity tool.

Apple has released a firmware update for its second-generation AirTag trackers. The update makes the devices easier to locate while making them more difficult to hide. The new firmware alters the sound emitted by the device when stalking or unauthorized tracking is suspected.

WTOP is set to fire John Wardock following comments made on his late-night show last week regarding Melania Trump. The station is reportedly reviewing its licenses in relation to the incident.

The World Economic Forum estimates that 92 million jobs could be replaced by automation and AI by 2030. The Dickensee Global Institute suggests these disruptions will ripple through local and global economies.

A New Zealand citizen is currently in ICE detention in East Boston. The individual is a Colombian immigrant facing potential deportation.

The Hill reports a consensus has formed among hardline conservatives regarding legislation to reauthorize foreign spy powers under FISA Section 702. A long-term solution of three or more years remains difficult due to the inability to assemble a coalition. The provision within the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act allows agencies to collect communications. Lawmakers are continuing to work toward a long-term deal regarding the program. This extension comes ahead of the program's expiration tonight. The current extension was a temporary 10-day measure while a long-term agreement is being negotiated in both chambers. US Congress implemented a last-minute political maneuver to extend Section 702 surveillance authority for 45 days. The move comes amid political backlash regarding privacy concerns.

Consumer confidence ticked up this month according to reports. However, the index remains below the long-term baseline where it has languished for more than a year. High prices are cited as a primary factor for the ongoing low confidence levels.

Hundreds of donors are requesting $1.5 million in refunds from Eric Swalwell's campaign for California Governor. The demand follows allegations of sexual assault from several women.

Court rulings revealed that Monsanto marketed the herbicide Roundup as a safe product for lawn use. The company reportedly launched a secret plan to prevent the public from questioning the product's safety.