Stories from United States

Federal investigators are examining Smith College in Northampton to determine if its admissions practices violate Title IX sex discrimination laws. The investigation focuses on the college's policy of admitting transgender and non-binary students. Smith College stated it has maintained this practice for over 10 years. Investigators are assessing whether the policy discriminates against other female students. The investigation is currently ongoing, according to the report. The Department of Education has opened an investigation into Smith College in Massachusetts regarding its admission policy for transgender women. Federal officials will review whether the institution complies with Title IX, which governs sex-based discrimination. The investigation was reported by CBS's Stacey Lynn.

A C-17 tactical transport aircraft is carrying specialized high-security communication and defense equipment for the US President. Military commentators noted the high-specification security equipment included in the shipment.

UnitedHealth Group plans to stop requiring doctor approvals for various procedures, tests, and services. The Wall Street Journal reports these changes will reduce the number of reviews by nearly one-third starting later this year.

UnitedHealth Group plans to stop requiring doctors to obtain approvals for various procedures, tests, and services. The company expects the changes to reduce the number of reviews by nearly one-third starting later this year.

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Director John Squires issued an agency memo adding new scenarios for striking down patent challenges. The memo introduces three considerations for the office's review process.

An 88-year-old veteran, M. Bombis, is launching a nationwide effort to support other veterans. The campaign was inspired by a viral GoFundMe organized by Australian fundraiser Sam Weidenhofer. The initiative has raised $300,000 in just a few days toward a $10 million goal.

Hundreds of protesters gathered in New York following the release of an individual named Chidozie around 2 a.m. NYPD arrived on the scene at approximately 10:30 p.m. after receiving several calls regarding the crowds.

A shooting occurred at the intersection of 15th Street and Independence Avenue in Washington. The incident took place minutes after the convoy of U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance passed through the area. Secret Service deputy director reported that plainclothes agents patrolling the presidential complex perimeter detected a suspect who appeared to be carrying a firearm. Authorities stated there are currently no indications that the shooting is related to the Vice President's movement. Officials have seized documents found in the area. Investigators have executed search warrants on the suspect's phone and other devices.

Data analytics firm Palantir is experiencing strong business performance, particularly within the United States market.

Lisa, a member of the K-pop group Blackpink, attended the Met Gala in New York. She received an award from Anna Wintour, who is part of Vogue magazine and considers herself influential in the fashion industry. This year's theme was Costume Art, and Lisa wore a white ensemble. Ticket prices for the Met Gala fundraiser have reached $100,000 for the first time in the event's 80-year history. This represents an increase from the $75,000 price point recorded last year. The price hike is attributed to inflationary pressures. Tickets for the upcoming Met Gala event are reportedly priced at six figures. Co-chairs Venus Williams and Nicole Kidman arrived at the start of the event. The theme for the gala involved costume art with a dress code described as lavish and whimsical.