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News and updates

News and updates

SEVP Increases Oversight of OPT

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The Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP) has announced the creation of a new unit dedicated to oversight of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The unit will have a full-time mandate to review compliance matters involving wage, hours, and compensation within OPT, the OPT extension, and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). The unit will publish reports annually, with the first report scheduled on 07/31/21, and interface with Homeland Security Investigations to recommend investigations of employers and students.

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History Made: Trump Impeached for Second Time

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On a historic day during what many would call an unbelievable period of our national history, President Trump today became the only president to be impeached for a second time. Ultimately, he was impeached by a vote of 232 to 197, with 10 Republicans joining the Democrats.

The trial moves to the Senate, where the Republicans still control power until the two Democratic Senators from Georgia are sworn in.  It has been reported that Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) has not ruled out voting to remove Trump.  When the Senate takes up the impeachment trial and whether there are any further developments on this quickly changing front still remain to be seen.

Read more about the developments here, here, here, and here.

Chad Wolf Resigns

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Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf has resigned. According to a department email, he cited several court cases which found he served as Acting Secretary unlawfully, having deviated from the established line of succession. He has been in his position since November 2019.

Pete Maynor, current FEMA Administrator, will serve as DHS Acting Secretary until President Trump’s term expires in 9 days.

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Articles of Impeachment Introduced

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The House has introduced articles of impeachment against President Trump accusing him of “incitement of insurrection”. Votes could occur as early as Wednesday. Even if the articles pass in the House, it is unlikely that the Senate would convene a trial, or vote to convict, before the President’s term ends. Read more.

DeVos, Chao Resign

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US Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos has reportedly resigned following yesterday’s violence at the US Capitol. An Acting Secretary has not been named. Information here.

Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, wife of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) has also resigned effective Monday, for the same reason. Steven Bradbury will serve as Acting Secretary of Transportation until the end of President Trump’s term.  See here.

Check back for updates.