usatoday--2020-07-13--Coronavirus updates: LA and San Diego school districts will start fall classes online only; Californ

Two of the largest school districts in the U.S. , the Los Angeles and San Diego unified school districts , said Monday that their academic years will start with only online instruction , as California continues to fight a surge of COVID-19 cases .
The districts made the announcement in a joint statement and said their academic calendars will begin as scheduled –Aug .
18 for Los Angeles and Aug. 31 for San Diego .
The statement added that both districts will plan to resume in-person learning `` as soon as public health conditions allow . ''
Also on Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new coronavirus , as President Donald Trump displayed his frustration with the CDC and the World Health Organization 's director warned that the global pandemic is worsening .
`` We need to reach a sustainable situation where we have adequate control of this virus without shutting down our lives entirely , '' Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Monday , adding that `` lurching from lockdown to lockdown ... has a hugely detrimental impact on societies . ''
Total confirmed cases across the nation surpassed 3.3 million – about 1 % of all Americans have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ racing across the nation just a few months ago .
More than 135,000 Americans have died .
Florida reported more than 12,000 new cases Monday , one day after its 15,000 new cases smashed the daily record for any state since the pandemic began .
Florida 's infection total now stands at 282,435 – more than all but eight countries .
In Washington , Trump showed little faith in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , retweeting a social media post accusing the agency of `` outrageous lies . ''
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are making their own fall 2020 decisions as COVID-19 squabbles continue .
• Large and small labs running 24/7 can ’ t process samples quickly enough .
That means COVID-19 test results are delayed a week or longer in hot spot communities , undercutting public health efforts to track , isolate and prevent spread .
• The `` current best estimate '' from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that approximately 40 % of people infected with COVID-19 are asymptomatic .
The chance of transmission from them is 75 % , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stats : The U.S. has surpassed 3.3 million cases with over 135,000 deaths , according to Johns Hopkins University .
Globally , there have been 12.9 million cases and over 570,000 deaths .
📰 What we 're reading : Public health experts fear a scenario where “ me first ” vaccine nationalism pits nation against nation to get and keep enough doses for their citizens .
Countries , as of now , are focusing on their own vaccine development programs rather than collaborating to pool resources .
In a joint statement issued Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unified school districts , the two largest in California , announced that their academic calendars will begin with online instruction .
Classes will begin as scheduled , Aug. 18 for Los Angeles and Aug. 31 for San Diego .
Both districts will continue to plan for in-person classes `` as soon as public health conditions allow . ''
The districts said they planned on providing additional training for teachers and students to ease the transition .
Online support will be offered for parents `` to make it easier for them to participate in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free meals will continue to be provided at distribution centers .
Los Angeles is the second-largest school district in the United States .
Key West orders residents to wear masks , even when social distancing Mayor Teri Johnston of Key West , Florida signed an executive order Monday , strengthening its rules on residents wearing face masks when out in public .
The order mandates that every person older than 6 `` shall wear a face covering at all times , regardless of whether social distancing is also maintained '' any time the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and employees `` shall ensure '' that the guidelines are met , the order states .
People do not have to wear masks when inside their cars or on their private boats .
Diners at restaurants may temporarily remove their masks to eat and drink , the order says .
Patrons of businesses who refuse to comply with the order will be forced to vacate the establishment and could face trespassing charges .
Violations of the order could draw misdemeanor charges , jail time , or $ 500 fines .
California Gov .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ business sectors that will be required to close as the number of coronavirus cases continue to increase substantially across the state .
All counties will be required to close indoor operations of restaurants , wineries , tasting rooms , movie theaters , family entertainment centers , zoos , museums , card rooms and all bars .
The 30 counties that are on the state ’ s targeted engagement list are ordered to close indoor operations of fitness centers , places of worship , offices for non-critical sectors , personal hair services , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new cases hit 8,211 over the past week .
Texas Sen. Ted Cruz was spotted without a face covering on a Sunday flight on American Airlines , according to a post on Twitter .
In the photo , Cruz , who was seated in first class on the regional jet operated by an American partner , was looking at his phone and holding a cup of coffee .
A mask is not visible .
The photo was posted by Hosseh Enad , a marketing compliance associate at DCCC , the Democratic National Campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweet that he 'd gotten it from an acquaintance .
He also posted photos of an unmasked Cruz sitting in the gate area before the flight .
`` Consistent with airline policy , he temporarily removes the mask while eating or drinking , '' Cruz spokesperson Lauren Aronson said in a statement .
`` Yesterday , during his flight he removed his mask to drink and put it back on afterward .
We should all practice common sense measures to slow the spread of the virus.
” New York to out-of-state travelers : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York will require air travelers from states with high rates of COVID-19 to provide their local contact information or face a penalty of up to $ 2,000 , Gov .
Andrew Cuomo announced Monday .
The shift in policy comes nearly three weeks after New York issued an order in late June requiring many out-of-state travelers to quarantine for two weeks upon entering the state .
The quarantine order , which came as COVID-19 rates increased across the country while dropping in New York , now applies to travelers coming from 19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Travelers to New York from the states on the quarantine list will be required to fill out a form documenting where they 're coming from and their local contact information after they exit the plane .
President Donald Trump retweeted a post claiming the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and others are telling `` outrageous lies '' about the pandemic .
The original tweet , from conservative podcast host Chuck Woolery , claims the lies are politically motivated and designed to keep the economy from reviving .
`` The most outrageous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Everyone is lying , '' Woolery , a former game show host , wrote .
`` The CDC , Media , Democrats , our Doctors , not all but most , that we are told to trust .
I think it 's all about the election and keeping the economy from coming back , which is about the election .
I 'm sick of it . ''
Trump also retweeted a Woolery post citing `` overwhelming '' evidence that schools should open this fall .
Three people who traveled on recent Delta @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who traveled on a recent regional Delta Air Lines flight from Atlanta to Albany have tested positive for COVID-19 .
`` We are working with local officials and following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ’ s protocol in their outreach to customers and employees , '' Delta Air Lines spokesperson Kate Modolo said in a statement .
`` Customer and crew health and safety are our top priority . ''
There were 44 passengers on the flight .
The passengers became symptomatic on July 7 , a day after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook post from the Rensselaer County government in upstate New York .
WHO leader : Global pandemic is getting worse , not better The COVID-19 pandemic is worsening globally and a return to the `` old normal '' remains in the distant future , the head of the World Health Organization warned Monday .
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that while some countries , especially in Europe and Asia , have brought outbreaks under control , too many others are seeing numbers rocket higher .
Still , he said the tide can be turned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emphasize reducing mortality and suppressing transmission .
And an `` engaged community '' must act responsibly for each other through wearing masks , practicing social distancing and other measures .
`` It can be done .
It must be done .
I have said it before and I will keep saying it , '' Tedros said .
`` We need strong government leadership and coordination of comprehensive strategies that are communicated clearly and consistently . ''
Florida logs second largest number of cases in a single day One day after setting a record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a single day for any state , Florida ’ s figures ticked down but still represented the second-highest single-day total seen since the start of the pandemic .
The state ’ s Department of Health reported 12,343 new cases Monday , down about 20 % from the previous day 's total of 15,283 .
Before the weekend began , New York state had held the previous mark for most single-day new confirmed COVID-19 cases with 12,274 , reached on April 4 .
Florida 's surge in cases over the past several weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of its reopening measures .
The spike , however , comes as Disney World reopened on Saturday and as the Republican National Convention is scheduled to take place in August in Jacksonville .
Gov .
Ron DeSantis has also ordered schools to reopen in August , when classes are set to resume .
It ’ s not just Florida – states large and small racking up big numbers of cases Florida ’ s report Sunday of 15,300 coronavirus cases , more than New York ever reported , widened eyes .
But on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at rates beyond the worst of what Northeastern states saw when they were the `` hot spot '' in April .
Arizona last week was adding cases at a higher per-capita rate than New York ever hit , and stayed around that level .
Florida sailed past New Jersey ’ s worst week and is approaching New York ’ s record , an analysis of Johns Hopkins University data by University of Illinois computer scientist Wade Fagen-Ulmschneider shows .
Adjusted for population , some smaller states are recording significant tallies of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jersey ’ s worst week – a level 22 % worse than Louisiana recorded when New Orleans ’ Mardi Gras celebrations lay the groundwork for the state ’ s April surge .
On a per-person basis , South Carolina ’ s outbreak is now as bad as Texas ’ , and both are closing in on Massachusetts ’ record worst week .
One bar 's shocking way to keep customers at a safe distance : An electric fence The Star Inn pub in Cornwall , England , put up an electric fence used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help keep patrons at a safe distance from bartenders .
The pub 's owner , Johnny McFadden , who is also a farmer , decided to install the electric fencing to keep his employees safe , the South West News Service reported .
`` Before the fence , people were not following social-distancing and were doing as they pleased , but now people take heed to the guidance around social distancing , '' McFadden told Cornwall Live .
McFadden told SWNS the fence is usually switched off but could be turned on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alaska sets another one-day record for new COVID cases Alaska , which has been able to avoid the brunt of the pandemic , was stung by its first triple-digit total of new cases Sunday – 116 .
While that pales in comparison to Florida , it shows that the wilderness state is not immune to the outbreak .
The state Department of Health and Social Services said the new cases break a previous record set the day before , when the state reported 77 cases .
Alaska has reported 1,774 cases , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will join me in practicing social distancing , wearing a mask when you can ’ t keep your distance from others , and staying home if you are sick , '' Gov .
Mike Dunleavy tweeted .
`` The actions you take today may save someone 's life . ''
The German health minister urged Germans not to organize local Oktoberfest parties that could bring a second wave of the pandemic to the country .
The national celebration has been canceled because of coronavirus concerns .
Health Minister Jens Spahn also said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups of German tourists on the Spanish island of Mallorca apparently ignoring social distancing guidelines .
Germany has drawn rave international reviews for its efforts to harness the outbreak , which has infected more than 200,000 Germans and killed more than 9,000 .
`` I understand the impatience , but where there are parties the infection risk is particularly high , '' he said .
`` We don ’ t automatically have to see a second wave in the fall and winter .
Together , as a society , we can prevent that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with K-12 school re-openings , families across the nation are busy making their own calculations about whether to send children back to school .
Most are taking a measured and hyper-local approach to what is ultimately a very personal decision , consulting with friends , neighbors and local educators .
That 's despite the issue becoming increasingly political as President Donald Trump and state officials weighed in last week , often in conflict with published health guidance .
“ There are no ideal solutions here , ” says Kao-Ping Chua , assistant professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Unfortunately , beyond conflicting information that ’ s getting politicized , states are seeing surging cases , which is not an environment you want to open schools in.
” New York City health officials report no deaths for first time since March 11 Initial data released Sunday by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reported that no one died from the virus in the city on July 11 , exactly four months after the state 's first official death was recorded on March 11 .
Officials also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well but did report two probable deaths .
The welcoming news comes after a harrowing four-month stretch in the nation 's most populated city .
The peak in confirmed daily deaths was April 7 , at 597 , although another 216 people were likely to have died from the virus that day despite no positive laboratory tests .
All told , New York City has reported 18,670 deaths from COVID-19 and 4,613 probable fatalities .
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported Oklahoma ’ s first COVID-19-related death in the 5-17 age @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 13-year-old who died at Comanche County Memorial Hospital on Friday night , reported local news station KSWO-TV .
Oklahoma military base Fort Sill said the teen was a dependent of an active duty service member at the post , where family members are in isolation .
The state department reported 456 new coronavirus cases across the state Sunday , bringing the total cumulative number of the state ’ s positive cases to 20,235 .
Mexico surpasses Italy in confirmed deaths ; 4th highest total of any country Mexican officials say the total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 35,000 , moving it past Italy with the fourth-most deaths of any country in the world .
Only the United States , Brazil and Britain have recorded more deaths , according to the Johns Hopkins University data dashboard .
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said the recent news `` is positive , it is good '' because only nine of the country 's 32 provinces had increases in cases of infection .
`` The bottom line is that the pandemic is on the downside , that it is losing intensity , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which was one of the first hot spots of the virus in Europe , has seen hospitals declare themselves coronavirus-free .
The country 's deaths Saturday fell to seven and confirmed daily cases dropped to below 200 , according to health officials .
Veronique Monguillot said she told the French interior minister , Gerald Darmanin , that she was “ destroyed ” by the fatal assault on her husband at a bus stop in Bayonne , southwest France .
“ We must bang a fist on the table , so this never happens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s barbaric , not normal .
We must stop this massacre.
” Bus driver Philippe Monguillot was attacked July 5 after asking four passengers to wear face masks , which are required on French public transport .
Monguillot was then verbally assaulted , pushed off the bus and violently beaten and kicked in the head .
His death was announced July 10 after he had been hospitalized in critical condition .
Four men have been arrested and charged in connection with the fatal assault .
America ’ s testing system is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to keep pace as the coronavirus rages faster than ever in the South and West .
The number of daily tests reached an all-time high of more than 719,000 on July 3 and averaged nearly 640,000 each day this past week , according to data from the COVID Tracking Project .
Because of this increase , large and small labs running 24/7 can ’ t process samples quickly enough from millions of Americans tested every week .
Testing centers in Sunbelt cities such as Tallahassee , Florida and Phoenix routinely attract long lines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Other than hospital patients , whom labs are prioritizing , delays are widespread in the South and West at drive-thru and walk-up testing centers , urgent care , doctor ’ s offices and government-supported testing sites .
More on the coronavirus from USA TODAY Where a face mask is required : Many governors are instituting or renewing orders requiring people to wear face coverings in public as cases continue to rise .
Is your state on the list ?
See it here .
Coronavirus Watch : We have a few ways for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for our daily coronavirus newsletter here , and come together and share the latest information about the coronavirus , coping with lifestyle changes and more by joining our Facebook group .
Where are states on reopening ?
Some are taking preemptive measures to postpone further phases of their reopening , while others have rolled back their phases to prevent the spread of the coronavirus .
See the list .

John Bacon, Elinor Aspegren and Lorenzo Reyes, USA TODAY

Coronavirus updates: LA and San Diego school districts will start fall classes online only; California orders statewide closures
Show Caption Hide Caption Black, Asian Americans report increased discrimination during pandemic According to a Pew Research Center report, discrimination and racism have increased in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, particularly for Asians. USA TODAY
Two of the largest school districts in the U.S., the Los Angeles and San Diego unified school districts, said Monday that their academic years will start with only online instruction, as California continues to fight a surge of COVID-19 cases.
The districts made the announcement in a joint statement and said their academic calendars will begin as scheduled – Aug. 18 for Los Angeles and Aug. 31 for San Diego. The statement added that both districts will plan to resume in-person learning "as soon as public health conditions allow."
Also on Monday, Florida reported another alarming number of new coronavirus, as President Donald Trump displayed his frustration with the CDC and the World Health Organization's director warned that the global pandemic is worsening.
"We need to reach a sustainable situation where we have adequate control of this virus without shutting down our lives entirely," Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Monday, adding that "lurching from lockdown to lockdown ... has a hugely detrimental impact on societies."
Total confirmed cases across the nation surpassed 3.3 million – about 1% of all Americans have now tested positive since the outbreak began racing across the nation just a few months ago. More than 135,000 Americans have died.
Florida reported more than 12,000 new cases Monday, one day after its 15,000 new cases smashed the daily record for any state since the pandemic began. Florida's infection total now stands at 282,435 – more than all but eight countries.
In Washington, Trump showed little faith in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, retweeting a social media post accusing the agency of "outrageous lies."
Some recent developments:
Online school? In-person? How parents are making their own fall 2020 decisions as COVID-19 squabbles continue.
Large and small labs running 24/7 can’t process samples quickly enough. That means COVID-19 test results are delayed a week or longer in hot spot communities, undercutting public health efforts to track, isolate and prevent spread.
The "current best estimate" from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that approximately 40% of people infected with COVID-19 are asymptomatic. The chance of transmission from them is 75%, the data reports.
📈 Today's stats: The U.S. has surpassed 3.3 million cases with over 135,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University. Globally, there have been 12.9 million cases and over 570,000 deaths.
📰 What we're reading: Public health experts fear a scenario where “me first” vaccine nationalism pits nation against nation to get and keep enough doses for their citizens. Countries, as of now, are focusing on their own vaccine development programs rather than collaborating to pool resources.
L.A., San Diego school districts to start academic year with online classes
In a joint statement issued Monday, the Los Angeles and San Diego unified school districts, the two largest in California, announced that their academic calendars will begin with online instruction.
Classes will begin as scheduled, Aug. 18 for Los Angeles and Aug. 31 for San Diego. Both districts will continue to plan for in-person classes "as soon as public health conditions allow."
The districts said they planned on providing additional training for teachers and students to ease the transition. Online support will be offered for parents "to make it easier for them to participate in the education of their students" and free meals will continue to be provided at distribution centers.
Los Angeles is the second-largest school district in the United States.
Key West orders residents to wear masks, even when social distancing
Mayor Teri Johnston of Key West, Florida signed an executive order Monday, strengthening its rules on residents wearing face masks when out in public.
The order mandates that every person older than 6 "shall wear a face covering at all times, regardless of whether social distancing is also maintained" any time the person leaves their home. Business operators and employees "shall ensure" that the guidelines are met, the order states. People do not have to wear masks when inside their cars or on their private boats. Diners at restaurants may temporarily remove their masks to eat and drink, the order says.
Patrons of businesses who refuse to comply with the order will be forced to vacate the establishment and could face trespassing charges. Violations of the order could draw misdemeanor charges, jail time, or $500 fines.
California orders closures, including some gyms and churches
California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Monday a list of business sectors that will be required to close as the number of coronavirus cases continue to increase substantially across the state.
All counties will be required to close indoor operations of restaurants, wineries, tasting rooms, movie theaters, family entertainment centers, zoos, museums, card rooms and all bars.
The 30 counties that are on the state’s targeted engagement list are ordered to close indoor operations of fitness centers, places of worship, offices for non-critical sectors, personal hair services, and indoor malls.
California's average daily new cases hit 8,211 over the past week.
– Nicole Hayden, Palm Springs Desert Sun
Sen. Ted Cruz spotted on American Airlines flight without mask
Texas Sen. Ted Cruz was spotted without a face covering on a Sunday flight on American Airlines, according to a post on Twitter. In the photo, Cruz, who was seated in first class on the regional jet operated by an American partner, was looking at his phone and holding a cup of coffee. A mask is not visible.
The photo was posted by Hosseh Enad, a marketing compliance associate at DCCC, the Democratic National Campaign Committee. Enad said in a subsequent tweet that he'd gotten it from an acquaintance. He also posted photos of an unmasked Cruz sitting in the gate area before the flight.
Captured today at 10:45am — @TedCruz on a commercial flight, refusing to wear a mask. pic.twitter.com/h8DM7J4CMi — Hosseh (@hossehenad) July 13, 2020
"Consistent with airline policy, he temporarily removes the mask while eating or drinking,'' Cruz spokesperson Lauren Aronson said in a statement. "Yesterday, during his flight he removed his mask to drink and put it back on afterward. We should all practice common sense measures to slow the spread of the virus.”
– Dawn Gilbertson
New York to out-of-state travelers: Provide contact information or face a fine
New York will require air travelers from states with high rates of COVID-19 to provide their local contact information or face a penalty of up to $2,000, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday.
The shift in policy comes nearly three weeks after New York issued an order in late June requiring many out-of-state travelers to quarantine for two weeks upon entering the state.
The quarantine order, which came as COVID-19 rates increased across the country while dropping in New York, now applies to travelers coming from 19 states including California, Texas and Florida.
Travelers to New York from the states on the quarantine list will be required to fill out a form documenting where they're coming from and their local contact information after they exit the plane.
– Jon Campbell, Democrat and Chronicle
Trump promotes tweet claiming CDC, physicians are lying about COVID-19
President Donald Trump retweeted a post claiming the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and others are telling "outrageous lies" about the pandemic. The original tweet, from conservative podcast host Chuck Woolery, claims the lies are politically motivated and designed to keep the economy from reviving.
"The most outrageous lies are the ones about Covid 19. Everyone is lying," Woolery, a former game show host, wrote. "The CDC, Media, Democrats, our Doctors, not all but most, that we are told to trust. I think it's all about the election and keeping the economy from coming back, which is about the election. I'm sick of it."
Trump also retweeted a Woolery post citing "overwhelming" evidence that schools should open this fall.
Three people who traveled on recent Delta flight have tested positive for COVID-19
Three people who traveled on a recent regional Delta Air Lines flight from Atlanta to Albany have tested positive for COVID-19.
"We are working with local officials and following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s protocol in their outreach to customers and employees," Delta Air Lines spokesperson Kate Modolo said in a statement. "Customer and crew health and safety are our top priority."
There were 44 passengers on the flight.
The passengers became symptomatic on July 7, a day after the July 6 flight, according to a Facebook post from the Rensselaer County government in upstate New York.
– David Oliver and Dawn Gilbertson
WHO leader: Global pandemic is getting worse, not better
The COVID-19 pandemic is worsening globally and a return to the "old normal" remains in the distant future, the head of the World Health Organization warned Monday. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that while some countries, especially in Europe and Asia, have brought outbreaks under control, too many others are seeing numbers rocket higher. Still, he said the tide can be turned. Governments, he said, must emphasize reducing mortality and suppressing transmission. And an "engaged community" must act responsibly for each other through wearing masks, practicing social distancing and other measures.
"It can be done. It must be done. I have said it before and I will keep saying it," Tedros said. "We need strong government leadership and coordination of comprehensive strategies that are communicated clearly and consistently."
Florida logs second largest number of cases in a single day
One day after setting a record for most new confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in a single day for any state, Florida’s figures ticked down but still represented the second-highest single-day total seen since the start of the pandemic. The state’s Department of Health reported 12,343 new cases Monday, down about 20% from the previous day's total of 15,283. Before the weekend began, New York state had held the previous mark for most single-day new confirmed COVID-19 cases with 12,274, reached on April 4.
Florida's surge in cases over the past several weeks has forced the state to slow some of its reopening measures. The spike, however, comes as Disney World reopened on Saturday and as the Republican National Convention is scheduled to take place in August in Jacksonville. Gov. Ron DeSantis has also ordered schools to reopen in August, when classes are set to resume.
It’s not just Florida – states large and small racking up big numbers of cases
Florida’s report Sunday of 15,300 coronavirus cases, more than New York ever reported, widened eyes. But on a per-person basis, states are adding cases at rates beyond the worst of what Northeastern states saw when they were the "hot spot" in April. Arizona last week was adding cases at a higher per-capita rate than New York ever hit, and stayed around that level.
Florida sailed past New Jersey’s worst week and is approaching New York’s record, an analysis of Johns Hopkins University data by University of Illinois computer scientist Wade Fagen-Ulmschneider shows.
Adjusted for population, some smaller states are recording significant tallies of the coronavirus. Last weekend, Louisiana passed New Jersey’s worst week – a level 22% worse than Louisiana recorded when New Orleans’ Mardi Gras celebrations lay the groundwork for the state’s April surge. On a per-person basis, South Carolina’s outbreak is now as bad as Texas’, and both are closing in on Massachusetts’ record worst week.
– Mike Stucka
One bar's shocking way to keep customers at a safe distance: An electric fence
The Star Inn pub in Cornwall, England, put up an electric fence used to restrict livestock near its bar counter to help keep patrons at a safe distance from bartenders.
The pub's owner, Johnny McFadden, who is also a farmer, decided to install the electric fencing to keep his employees safe, the South West News Service reported.
"Before the fence, people were not following social-distancing and were doing as they pleased, but now people take heed to the guidance around social distancing," McFadden told Cornwall Live.
McFadden told SWNS the fence is usually switched off but could be turned on if things get out of hand.
– Ryan W. Miller
Alaska sets another one-day record for new COVID cases
Alaska, which has been able to avoid the brunt of the pandemic, was stung by its first triple-digit total of new cases Sunday – 116. While that pales in comparison to Florida, it shows that the wilderness state is not immune to the outbreak. The state Department of Health and Social Services said the new cases break a previous record set the day before, when the state reported 77 cases. Alaska has reported 1,774 cases, including 17 deaths.
"I hope Alaskans will join me in practicing social distancing, wearing a mask when you can’t keep your distance from others, and staying home if you are sick," Gov. Mike Dunleavy tweeted. "The actions you take today may save someone's life."
Germany issues Oktoberfest warning, chastises Germans partying in Spain
The German health minister urged Germans not to organize local Oktoberfest parties that could bring a second wave of the pandemic to the country. The national celebration has been canceled because of coronavirus concerns. Health Minister Jens Spahn also said he was troubled by viral videos showing large groups of German tourists on the Spanish island of Mallorca apparently ignoring social distancing guidelines.
Germany has drawn rave international reviews for its efforts to harness the outbreak, which has infected more than 200,000 Germans and killed more than 9,000.
"I understand the impatience, but where there are parties the infection risk is particularly high," he said. "We don’t automatically have to see a second wave in the fall and winter. Together, as a society, we can prevent that."
Families ignore politics, make plans for coming school year
As officials play political football with K-12 school re-openings, families across the nation are busy making their own calculations about whether to send children back to school. Most are taking a measured and hyper-local approach to what is ultimately a very personal decision, consulting with friends, neighbors and local educators. That's despite the issue becoming increasingly political as President Donald Trump and state officials weighed in last week, often in conflict with published health guidance.
“There are no ideal solutions here,” says Kao-Ping Chua, assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Michigan. "Unfortunately, beyond conflicting information that’s getting politicized, states are seeing surging cases, which is not an environment you want to open schools in.”
– Marco della Cava
Coronavirus: How R-0 can be used to fight COVID-19 R-0 may be the most important scientific term you’ve never heard of when it comes to stopping the coronavirus pandemic. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
New York City health officials report no deaths for first time since March 11
Initial data released Sunday by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reported that no one died from the virus in the city on July 11, exactly four months after the state's first official death was recorded on March 11. Officials also recorded no confirmed deaths the day before as well but did report two probable deaths.
The welcoming news comes after a harrowing four-month stretch in the nation's most populated city. The peak in confirmed daily deaths was April 7, at 597, although another 216 people were likely to have died from the virus that day despite no positive laboratory tests. All told, New York City has reported 18,670 deaths from COVID-19 and 4,613 probable fatalities.
Oklahoma reports state's first teen death, a 13-year-old at Fort Sill
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported Oklahoma’s first COVID-19-related death in the 5-17 age category. The patient was identified as a 13-year-old who died at Comanche County Memorial Hospital on Friday night, reported local news station KSWO-TV. Oklahoma military base Fort Sill said the teen was a dependent of an active duty service member at the post, where family members are in isolation.
The state department reported 456 new coronavirus cases across the state Sunday, bringing the total cumulative number of the state’s positive cases to 20,235.
Mexico surpasses Italy in confirmed deaths; 4th highest total of any country
Mexican officials say the total number of confirmed COVID-19 deaths has passed 35,000, moving it past Italy with the fourth-most deaths of any country in the world. Only the United States, Brazil and Britain have recorded more deaths, according to the Johns Hopkins University data dashboard. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said the recent news "is positive, it is good" because only nine of the country's 32 provinces had increases in cases of infection.
"The bottom line is that the pandemic is on the downside, that it is losing intensity," he said.
Meanwhile, Italy, which was one of the first hot spots of the virus in Europe, has seen hospitals declare themselves coronavirus-free. The country's deaths Saturday fell to seven and confirmed daily cases dropped to below 200, according to health officials.
French widow mourns 'barbaric' death of driver beaten over masks
Veronique Monguillot said she told the French interior minister, Gerald Darmanin, that she was “destroyed” by the fatal assault on her husband at a bus stop in Bayonne, southwest France. “We must bang a fist on the table, so this never happens again,” she said. “It’s barbaric, not normal. We must stop this massacre.”
Bus driver Philippe Monguillot was attacked July 5 after asking four passengers to wear face masks, which are required on French public transport. Monguillot was then verbally assaulted, pushed off the bus and violently beaten and kicked in the head. His death was announced July 10 after he had been hospitalized in critical condition. Four men have been arrested and charged in connection with the fatal assault.
Long lines for COVID-19 tests, stressed labs delay results as demand spikes
America’s testing system is once again strained and labs are struggling to keep pace as the coronavirus rages faster than ever in the South and West.
The number of daily tests reached an all-time high of more than 719,000 on July 3 and averaged nearly 640,000 each day this past week, according to data from the COVID Tracking Project.
Because of this increase, large and small labs running 24/7 can’t process samples quickly enough from millions of Americans tested every week.
Testing centers in Sunbelt cities such as Tallahassee, Florida and Phoenix routinely attract long lines and at times must turn away people. Other than hospital patients, whom labs are prioritizing, delays are widespread in the South and West at drive-thru and walk-up testing centers, urgent care, doctor’s offices and government-supported testing sites.
– Ken Alltucker
More on the coronavirus from USA TODAY
Where a face mask is required: Many governors are instituting or renewing orders requiring people to wear face coverings in public as cases continue to rise. Is your state on the list? See it here.
Coronavirus Watch: We have a few ways for you to stay informed. Sign up for our daily coronavirus newsletter here, and come together and share the latest information about the coronavirus, coping with lifestyle changes and more by joining our Facebook group.
Where are states on reopening? Some are taking preemptive measures to postpone further phases of their reopening, while others have rolled back their phases to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. See the list.
Contributing: The Associated Press


usatoday--2020-07-13--The popular Apple AirPods Pro are discounted down to their lowest price ever

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
It ’ s no secret that the Apple AirPods Pro are a cherished item in the techie world .
From its impressive noise cancellation to the comfy silicone tips , the ever-popular AirPods Pro are our all-time favorite wireless earbuds .
The one downside ?
The Bluetooth-capable earphones come with a lofty $ 250 price tag and are rarely discounted—until today , that is .
Need help finding products ?
Sign up for our weekly newsletter .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ unsubscribe at any time .
For today , July 13 , only , you can snag the Apple AirPods Pro for $ 214.99 at Woot !
.
Normally retailing for $ 249.99 , this $ 35 markdown is the biggest discount we ’ ve ever seen .
With nearly 19,000 glowing reviews , these AirPods are listed on sale for $ 224.99 , but Amazon Prime members can log in at checkout for an additional $ 10 discount , giving you a grand total of $ 214.99 .
But if you 're not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still find them for cheaper at Verizon for $ 219 , down $ 30 from $ 249 .
When we took the AirPods Pro for a spin , there were plenty of feaures that we were thrilled with , like its versatile and comfortable design ( the silicone tips come in three sizes ) , which can be used for hitting the gym , on-the-go tunes or working from home .
As a clear upgrade from its predecessor , the Apple AirPods , we immediately noticed that the sound quality was far superior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a great addition .
Plus , it even comes with transparency mode , which easily filters exterior audio , allowing for you to hear what ’ s going on around you while still jamming out .
Our only qualm was its expensive price tag , but thanks to this Woot !
deal , you can snag the best headphones Apple has ever made at a major discount .
These sweat- and water-resistant earphones are a summer must-have for any music lover , regardless if you ’ re looking to nab ‘ em for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meetings .
With easy set-up and syncing to other Apple devices , snagging these AirPods at 35 % off is a massive steal—you ’ ll want to move quickly , though , since these coveted earphones are guaranteed to sell out .
Get the Apple AirPods Pro at Woot !
for $ 214.99 ( Save $ 35 ) The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered .
Follow Reviewed on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the latest deals , reviews , and more .
Prices were accurate at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may change over time .

The popular Apple AirPods Pro are discounted down to their lowest price ever
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
It’s no secret that the Apple AirPods Pro are a cherished item in the techie world. From its impressive noise cancellation to the comfy silicone tips, the ever-popular AirPods Pro are our all-time favorite wireless earbuds. The one downside? The Bluetooth-capable earphones come with a lofty $250 price tag and are rarely discounted—until today, that is.
Need help finding products? Sign up for our weekly newsletter. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
For today, July 13, only, you can snag the Apple AirPods Pro for $214.99 at Woot!. Normally retailing for $249.99, this $35 markdown is the biggest discount we’ve ever seen. With nearly 19,000 glowing reviews, these AirPods are listed on sale for $224.99, but Amazon Prime members can log in at checkout for an additional $10 discount, giving you a grand total of $214.99. But if you're not an Amazon Prime customer, you can still find them for cheaper at Verizon for $219, down $30 from $249.
When we took the AirPods Pro for a spin, there were plenty of feaures that we were thrilled with, like its versatile and comfortable design (the silicone tips come in three sizes), which can be used for hitting the gym, on-the-go tunes or working from home. As a clear upgrade from its predecessor, the Apple AirPods, we immediately noticed that the sound quality was far superior, and the noise cancellation feature was a great addition.
Plus, it even comes with transparency mode, which easily filters exterior audio, allowing for you to hear what’s going on around you while still jamming out. Our only qualm was its expensive price tag, but thanks to this Woot! deal, you can snag the best headphones Apple has ever made at a major discount.
These sweat- and water-resistant earphones are a summer must-have for any music lover, regardless if you’re looking to nab ‘em for outdoor runs or improved sound on Zoom meetings. With easy set-up and syncing to other Apple devices, snagging these AirPods at 35% off is a massive steal—you’ll want to move quickly, though, since these coveted earphones are guaranteed to sell out.
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest deals, reviews, and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.


usatoday--2020-07-13--Kelly Preston, actress and wife to John Travolta dies at 57 after battling breast cancer

Kelly Preston : Actress dies at 57 after a battle with breast cancer Kelly Preston , actress and wife to @ @ @ @ @ at 57 years old after a two-year battle with breast cancer .

Kelly Preston: Actress dies at 57 after a battle with breast cancer
Kelly Preston, actress and wife to John Travolta has passed away at 57 years old after a two-year battle with breast cancer.
USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-07-14--How to clean your leather couch without damaging it

Clean your leather couch without damaging it The last thing you want to do is ruin your leather couch .
@ @ @ @ @ clean it .

Clean your leather couch without damaging it
The last thing you want to do is ruin your leather couch. This is how to properly clean it.
ProblemSolved, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-07-13--Former foster dog becomes foster dad to kittens

Former foster dog becomes foster dad to kittens Raylan the dog has fostered more than 75 homeless cats and kittens @ @ @ @ @ it without the help of his mom Laura who once upon a time saved his @ @

Former foster dog becomes foster dad to kittens
Raylan the dog has fostered more than 75 homeless cats and kittens. He couldn't do it without the help of his mom Laura who once upon a time saved his life.
Animalkind, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-07-13--See penguins take a field trip to Chicago's Field Museum of Natural History

These penguins from the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago got a VIP tour of the empty Field Museum of Natural History @ @ @ @ @ this month .

Penguins explore empty Chicago museum ahead of reopening
These penguins from the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago got a VIP tour of the empty Field Museum of Natural History ahead of its reopening later this month.
USA TODAY, Storyful


usatoday--2020-07-13--American Airlines reaches out to remind Sen. Ted Cruz about face mask use amid COVID-19 pandemic

Add Sen. Ted Cruz to the list of airline passengers shamed for not wearing a mask on a flight .
The Texas Republican was spotted without a face covering on a Sunday flight on American Airlines , according to a post on Twitter .
In the photo , Cruz , who was seated in first class on the regional jet operated by an American partner , was looking at his phone and holding a cup of coffee .
A mask is not visible .
The photo was posted by Hosseh Enad , a marketing compliance associate at the Democratic Congressional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subsequent tweet that he 'd gotten it from an acquaintance .
He also posted photos of an unmasked Cruz sitting in the gate area before the flight .
Cruz spokesperson Lauren Aronson said the senator wears a mask when traveling and practices social distancing where possible .
`` Consistent with airline policy , he temporarily removes the mask while eating or drinking , '' she said in a statement .
`` Yesterday , during his flight he removed his mask to drink and put it back on afterward .
We should all practice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the virus.
” American Airlines spokesman Ross Feinstein said early Monday that the airline was looking into the situation .
“ We are committed to protecting the health and safety of all those who fly with us , and we are reviewing the details of this matter , '' he said in a statement .
Late Monday , in the wake of calls on Twitter to # banTed and # banTedCruz from flying on American , Feinstein said the airline reached out to Cruz to remind him about the airline 's face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in all instances like these , we reviewed the details of the matter , and while our policy does not apply while eating or drinking , we have reached out to Sen. Cruz to affirm the importance of this policy as part of our commitment to protecting the health and safety of the traveling public.
” the statement said .
In June , American banned a passenger from future flights for refusing to wear a mask .
United said it would revoke travel privileges of maskless travelers .
All U.S. airlines require passengers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eating or drinking , but there is no federal mandate that airline crew members can cite when trying to enforce it .
That 's why airline executives , unions and consumer advocates are urging the U.S. Department of Transportation to mandate mask use on planes and at airports .
Last week , the spokesman for the Allied Pilots Association , which represents American Airlines pilots , expressed concern about the `` creative ways '' passengers are finding to to keep their masks off .
A pilot speaks : Without a federal mask mandate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flight attendants to force compliance

American Airlines reminds Sen. Ted Cruz about face mask use amid COVID-19 pandemic
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: US airlines announce face mask requirements to travel Many U.S. airlines including American, Southwest, United, Delta, Alaska, Frontier and JetBlue have announced passengers must wear masks while flying. USA TODAY, USA TODAY
Add Sen. Ted Cruz to the list of airline passengers shamed for not wearing a mask on a flight.
The Texas Republican was spotted without a face covering on a flight Sunday, according to a post on Twitter. In a photo of Cruz, holding a cup of coffee in a first-class seat on a regional jet operated by an American Airlines partner, a mask is not visible.
The photo was posted by Hosseh Enad, a marketing compliance associate at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. He said in a subsequent tweet that he'd gotten it from an acquaintance. He also posted photos of an unmasked Cruz sitting in the gate area before the flight.
Captured today at 10:45am — @TedCruz on a commercial flight, refusing to wear a mask. pic.twitter.com/h8DM7J4CMi — Hosseh (@hossehenad) July 13, 2020
Cruz spokesperson Lauren Aronson said the senator wears a mask when traveling and practices social distancing where possible.
"Consistent with airline policy, he temporarily removes the mask while eating or drinking,'' she said in a statement. "Yesterday, during his flight he removed his mask to drink and put it back on afterward. We should all practice common sense measures to slow the spread of the virus.”
American Airlines spokesman Ross Feinstein said in a statement early Monday, “We are committed to protecting the health and safety of all those who fly with us, and we are reviewing the details of this matter."
Late Monday, in the wake of calls on Twitter to #banTed and #banTedCruz from flying on American, Feinstein said, "As we do in all instances like these, we reviewed the details of the matter, and while our policy does not apply while eating or drinking, we have reached out to Sen. Cruz to affirm the importance of this policy as part of our commitment to protecting the health and safety of the traveling public.”
In June, American banned a passenger from future flights for refusing to wear a mask. United said it would revoke travel privileges of maskless travelers.
All U.S. airlines require passengers to wear masks during flight except when eating or drinking, but there is no federal mandate that airline crew members can cite when trying to enforce it. Airline executives, unions and consumer advocates urge the U.S. Department of Transportation to mandate mask use on planes and at airports.
Last week, the spokesman for the Allied Pilots Association, which represents American Airlines pilots, expressed concern about the "creative ways'' passengers find to keep their masks off.
A pilot speaks: Without a federal mask mandate on planes, it's hard for flight attendants to force compliance


usatoday--2020-07-13--Blaze rages on USS Bonhomme Richard more than 24 hours after the fire; nearly 60 injured

WASHINGTON – Firefighters , backed by helicopters , are still battling the blaze raging aboard the Navy 's USS Bonhomme Richard on Monday , more than 24 hours after flames were first reported at its pier in San Diego .
Efforts to contain the fire have injured 57 firefighters , including 34 sailors .
Most of the injuries have been minor , including heat exhaustion and smoke inhalation .
Five personnel remain hospitalized in stable condition , said Rear Adm. Philip Sobeck , commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 3 , at a briefing for reporters Monday .
Damage has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upper decks and superstructure .
The ship is listing , and sailors are working to keep it stable , Sobeck said .
The fire erupted well below the deck and generated extreme heat , reaching 1,000 degrees , Sobeck said .
The top priority for firefighters is preventing heat and flames from reaching the ship 's fuel tanks , which hold 1 million gallons of petroleum .
Plastic , rags , drywall and cardboard stored in a vast hold have fueled the flames .
Helicopters and tug boats are pouring water on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire .
`` We 're still using helos to dump water , '' said Lt. Cdr .
Nicole Schwegman , a Navy spokeswoman .
It 's unclear how long it will take to control the fire .
The cause of the fire aboard Bonhomme Richard , an amphibious assault vessel , is unknown , Sobeck said .
The ship was undergoing maintenance when the fire began .
All crew members have been accounted for .
Sailors reported the fire at about 8:30 a.m. PDT Sunday .
Firefighters from the Navy , federal and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal with extreme heat .
The Navy sent two destroyers , the USS Fitzgerald and USS Russell , away from their berths to avoid damage .
The difficulty in extinguishing the fire at a U.S. naval base , where with firefighters , boats , and helicopters are at the ready , raises questions about the safety of other ships like the Bonhomme Richard , said a U.S. official familiar with the vessels but not authorized to speak publicly .
A fire at sea , with fueled vehicles aboard , could be catastrophic , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replacing the Bonhomme Richard would be about $ 4 billion , said Todd Harrison , an expert on military budgets at the Center for Strategic and International Studies .
It would take several years to build .
`` And it ’ s worth noting that despite the fact that the Navy calls it an amphibious assault ship , it ’ s really a small aircraft carrier , '' Harrison said .
The Bonhomme Richard was commissioned in 1998 .
Its full crew is about 1,000 sailors and can ferry an additional 2,000 Marines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ length , the ship is second only to an aircraft carrier in size and accommodates helicopters and warplanes such as F-35 and large hovercraft to bring Marines ashore .
Navy : Madeline Swegle becomes first Black female fighter pilot in 110-year history

Blaze rages on USS Bonhomme Richard more than 24 hours after the fire; nearly 60 injured
Show Caption Hide Caption Fire on Naval Base sends several sailors to hospital An amphibious assault ship caught fire after an explosion on Sunday at Naval Base San Diego, injuring 18 sailors and filling the skies with smoke. Associated Press
WASHINGTON – Firefighters, backed by helicopters, are still battling the blaze raging aboard the Navy's USS Bonhomme Richard on Monday, more than 24 hours after flames were first reported at its pier in San Diego.
Efforts to contain the fire have injured 57 firefighters, including 34 sailors. Most of the injuries have been minor, including heat exhaustion and smoke inhalation. Five personnel remain hospitalized in stable condition, said Rear Adm. Philip Sobeck, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, at a briefing for reporters Monday.
Damage has been extensive, including to the ship's upper decks and superstructure. The ship is listing, and sailors are working to keep it stable, Sobeck said.
The fire erupted well below the deck and generated extreme heat, reaching 1,000 degrees, Sobeck said. The top priority for firefighters is preventing heat and flames from reaching the ship's fuel tanks, which hold 1 million gallons of petroleum.
Plastic, rags, drywall and cardboard stored in a vast hold have fueled the flames.
Helicopters and tug boats are pouring water on the ship to cool it and extinguish the fire.
"We're still using helos to dump water," said Lt. Cdr. Nicole Schwegman, a Navy spokeswoman.
It's unclear how long it will take to control the fire.
The cause of the fire aboard Bonhomme Richard, an amphibious assault vessel, is unknown, Sobeck said. The ship was undergoing maintenance when the fire began. All crew members have been accounted for.
Sailors reported the fire at about 8:30 a.m. PDT Sunday. Firefighters from the Navy, federal and local departments have worked in shifts to deal with extreme heat.
The Navy sent two destroyers, the USS Fitzgerald and USS Russell, away from their berths to avoid damage.
The difficulty in extinguishing the fire at a U.S. naval base, where with firefighters, boats, and helicopters are at the ready, raises questions about the safety of other ships like the Bonhomme Richard, said a U.S. official familiar with the vessels but not authorized to speak publicly. A fire at sea, with fueled vehicles aboard, could be catastrophic, the official said.
The cost of replacing the Bonhomme Richard would be about $4 billion, said Todd Harrison, an expert on military budgets at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. It would take several years to build.
"And it’s worth noting that despite the fact that the Navy calls it an amphibious assault ship, it’s really a small aircraft carrier," Harrison said.
The Bonhomme Richard was commissioned in 1998. Its full crew is about 1,000 sailors and can ferry an additional 2,000 Marines to battlefields. At 844 feet in length, the ship is second only to an aircraft carrier in size and accommodates helicopters and warplanes such as F-35 and large hovercraft to bring Marines ashore.
Navy: Madeline Swegle becomes first Black female fighter pilot in 110-year history


usatoday--2020-07-13--Moments after Gov. Lee signed it, court halts Tennessee's restrictive abortion law

A federal judge halted the roll out of a controversial abortion law in Tennessee less than an hour after Gov .
Bill Lee signed it into law .
Lee on Monday signed into law the state 's wide-ranging abortion ban , legislation that will enact some of the nation 's most restrictive abortion regulations .
He signed the bill around 11 a.m. By 11:45 a.m. , the court ruled against the law .
Reproductive providers including Planned Parenthood , the American Civil Liberties Union and other abortion rights groups filed a lawsuit against the bill in federal court in Nashville @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Senate 23-5 in an early morning vote .
Abortion providers asked for the restraining order in an attempt to delay implementation of the ban while the case is before the courts .
They argue the bans are unconstitutional and contradict U.S. Supreme Court rulings in Roe V. Wade and other landmark cases .
District Judge William L. Campbell agreed Monday with the plaintiffs that if immediately implemented , the bill could cause a significant impact to Tennesseans seeking abortions , and the roll out should be halted while the case remains before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will suffer immediate and irreparable injury , harm , loss , or damage if injunctive relief is not granted pending a preliminary injunction hearing .
The Act will immediately impact patients seeking abortions and imposes criminal sanctions on abortion providers .
The time-sensitive nature of the procedure also weighs in favor of injunctive relief pending a preliminary injunction hearing , '' Campbell wrote in the order granting the restraining order .
Campbell also found the reverse to be true , that the public interest of the state will not be meaningfully harmed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the case .
In addition to banning abortions after the point a fetal heartbeat can be detected , which is as early as six weeks , the legislation , which takes effect immediately , also prohibits the procedure : • If the doctor knows that the woman is seeking an abortion because of the child 's sex or race ; • If the doctor knows the woman is seeking an abortion due to to a diagnosis of Down syndrome ; and • For juveniles in custody of the Department of Children 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to petition a judge for permission .
• While there is an exception to the restrictions if a woman 's life is in danger , there are no exceptions for rape or incest .
The law makes it a Class C felony for a doctor to perform an abortion in any of those situations , and the physician must also : Determine and inform the mother of the gestational age of the fetus ; • Allow the woman to hear the fetal heartbeat and explain the location of the unborn child within the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ display the images to the mother ; and • Provide an explanation of the fetus 's dimensions and which external body parts and internal organs are present and visible .
Under the law , abortion clinics will also be required to post a sign in the waiting area and in patient rooms informing people that it may be possible to reverse a chemical abortion .
Failing to do so can result in a $ 10,000 fine for the clinic , though that portion of the new law would take effect Oct. 1 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that reversal is possible .
Lee broadcast his signature of the measure on Facebook on Monday , saying the law is `` arguably the most conservative , pro-life piece of legislation in the country . ''
`` It 's our responsibility to protect the most vulnerable in our community , '' the governor said as he signed the measure from inside his office .
`` With the signature of this bill , Tennessee is one of the most pro-life states in America . ''
Similar six-week bans have been struck down in Mississippi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 , 25 abortion bans filed in 12 states remain blocked by litigation from rights groups including the ACLU and Planned Parenthood , as well as the Center for Reproductive Rights .
Abortion providers from across the state , including Memphis , Knoxville , Nashville and Mt .
Juliet , and two physicians , filed the suit against Lee 's new bill on behalf of themselves , their staff and patients .
The plaintiffs say the state already limits abortion to the fullest extent possible under the state Constitution , but that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Monday 's order does not reflect a judge 's ruling on the constitutionality of the law itself , just whether it can be implemented before a court rules .
“ This is a victory for patients in Tennessee , but the fight is far from over .
This sweeping abortion ban is part of a multi-layered effort to target people who already face systemic barriers to care because of racist and discriminatory policies , ” said Ashley Coffield , president & CEO , Planned Parenthood Tennessee and North Mississippi , in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fight for all of our patients , we ’ re glad that today ’ s ruling will allow Tennesseans to continue to seek the health care they choose in their home state.
” The temporary restraining order went into effect at noon Monday and will expire at noon on July 27 pending a further court order .
A hearing on a preliminary injunction , which may stop the roll out for a longer period or reverse the restraining order , has been scheduled for July 24 .
Attorney General Herbert H. Slatery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the suit , alongside the district attorneys general of Davidson , Knox , Shelby and Wilson counties , the state health department director and the president of the board of medical examiners in their official capacities .
The new bans are not the only Tennessee limit on abortion before the federal courts .
This latest battle push against the state 's efforts this year was supplemental to a long-running suit against Tennessee 's required 48-hour waiting period before an abortion , which remains pending , as it has for five years , before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month struck down state restrictions on abortion clinics for the second time in four years , signaling that its conservative shift under President Donald Trump has not eliminated a deep split over abortion rights .
More : Supreme Court strikes down abortion clinic restrictions in Louisiana , a defeat for conservatives The court ruled 5-4 in late June that a Louisiana law requiring doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals would unduly burden women .
Chief Justice John Roberts cast the deciding vote , though he did not sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the court 's four liberal justices .
The court reached the same conclusion in 2016 regarding a Texas law , but since then , Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh succeeded retired Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy , giving abortion opponents hope for more substantial restrictions .
Kavanaugh joined the dissenters in Monday 's ruling .
Plaintiffs say that the new law would disproportionately affect the health care access of minority Tennesseans .
The restrictive ban limits access to medical care , including abortion , particularly for those struggling financially and those who already face significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of color and people who live in rural areas , according to a statement from the ACLU of Tennessee .
“ It ’ s past time for the politicians in our state get the message that they can not insert themselves in someone else ’ s personal , private decision to end their pregnancy .
We will continue to stand with our partners and fight back against politicians ’ attacks on constitutionally-protected abortion care , '' said Hedy Weinberg , executive director , ACLU of Tennessee , in an emailed statement .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lee 's office .
Natalie Allison and Joel Ebert contributed .
Reach reporter Mariah Timms at mtimms @ tennessean.com or 615-259-8344 and on Twitter @ MariahTimms .

Moments after Gov. Lee signed it, court halts Tennessee's restrictive abortion law
Show Caption Hide Caption Gov. Bill Lee signs abortion restriction measure into law Gov. Bill Lee on Monday signed into law the state's wide-ranging abortion ban banning abortions after the point a fetal heartbeat can be detected along with other restrictions. Gov. Bill Lee, Facebook
A federal judge halted the roll out of a controversial abortion law in Tennessee less than an hour after Gov. Bill Lee signed it into law.
Lee on Monday signed into law the state's wide-ranging abortion ban, legislation that will enact some of the nation's most restrictive abortion regulations.
He signed the bill around 11 a.m. By 11:45 a.m., the court ruled against the law.
Reproductive providers including Planned Parenthood, the American Civil Liberties Union and other abortion rights groups filed a lawsuit against the bill in federal court in Nashville in June after the bill passed the Senate 23-5 in an early morning vote.
Abortion providers asked for the restraining order in an attempt to delay implementation of the ban while the case is before the courts.
They argue the bans are unconstitutional and contradict U.S. Supreme Court rulings in Roe V. Wade and other landmark cases.
District Judge William L. Campbell agreed Monday with the plaintiffs that if immediately implemented, the bill could cause a significant impact to Tennesseans seeking abortions, and the roll out should be halted while the case remains before the court.
"Plaintiffs have demonstrated they will suffer immediate and irreparable injury, harm, loss, or damage if injunctive relief is not granted pending a preliminary injunction hearing. The Act will immediately impact patients seeking abortions and imposes criminal sanctions on abortion providers. The time-sensitive nature of the procedure also weighs in favor of injunctive relief pending a preliminary injunction hearing," Campbell wrote in the order granting the restraining order.
Campbell also found the reverse to be true, that the public interest of the state will not be meaningfully harmed by preserving the status quo pending a hearing on the case.
Restrictive bans
In addition to banning abortions after the point a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is as early as six weeks, the legislation, which takes effect immediately, also prohibits the procedure:
If the doctor knows that the woman is seeking an abortion because of the child's sex or race;
If the doctor knows the woman is seeking an abortion due to to a diagnosis of Down syndrome; and
For juveniles in custody of the Department of Children's Services, including removing the current option to petition a judge for permission.
While there is an exception to the restrictions if a woman's life is in danger, there are no exceptions for rape or incest.
The law makes it a Class C felony for a doctor to perform an abortion in any of those situations, and the physician must also:
Determine and inform the mother of the gestational age of the fetus;
Allow the woman to hear the fetal heartbeat and explain the location of the unborn child within the uterus;
Conduct an ultrasound and display the images to the mother; and
Provide an explanation of the fetus's dimensions and which external body parts and internal organs are present and visible.
Under the law, abortion clinics will also be required to post a sign in the waiting area and in patient rooms informing people that it may be possible to reverse a chemical abortion. Failing to do so can result in a $10,000 fine for the clinic, though that portion of the new law would take effect Oct. 1. There remains no medical consensus on whether that reversal is possible.
Lee broadcast his signature of the measure on Facebook on Monday, saying the law is "arguably the most conservative, pro-life piece of legislation in the country."
"It's our responsibility to protect the most vulnerable in our community," the governor said as he signed the measure from inside his office. "With the signature of this bill, Tennessee is one of the most pro-life states in America."
Similar six-week bans have been struck down in Mississippi, Ohio and other states. In 2019, 25 abortion bans filed in 12 states remain blocked by litigation from rights groups including the ACLU and Planned Parenthood, as well as the Center for Reproductive Rights.
Ongoing lawsuits
Abortion providers from across the state, including Memphis, Knoxville, Nashville and Mt. Juliet, and two physicians, filed the suit against Lee's new bill on behalf of themselves, their staff and patients.
The plaintiffs say the state already limits abortion to the fullest extent possible under the state Constitution, but that the new bans' reach would be unconstitutional.
Monday's order does not reflect a judge's ruling on the constitutionality of the law itself, just whether it can be implemented before a court rules.
“This is a victory for patients in Tennessee, but the fight is far from over. This sweeping abortion ban is part of a multi-layered effort to target people who already face systemic barriers to care because of racist and discriminatory policies,” said Ashley Coffield, president & CEO, Planned Parenthood Tennessee and North Mississippi, in an emailed statement. "As we continue to fight for all of our patients, we’re glad that today’s ruling will allow Tennesseans to continue to seek the health care they choose in their home state.”
The temporary restraining order went into effect at noon Monday and will expire at noon on July 27 pending a further court order.
A hearing on a preliminary injunction, which may stop the roll out for a longer period or reverse the restraining order, has been scheduled for July 24.
Attorney General Herbert H. Slatery III was named as a defendant in the suit, alongside the district attorneys general of Davidson, Knox, Shelby and Wilson counties, the state health department director and the president of the board of medical examiners in their official capacities.
The new bans are not the only Tennessee limit on abortion before the federal courts.
This latest battle push against the state's efforts this year was supplemental to a long-running suit against Tennessee's required 48-hour waiting period before an abortion, which remains pending, as it has for five years, before a federal judge.
And SCOTUS last month struck down state restrictions on abortion clinics for the second time in four years, signaling that its conservative shift under President Donald Trump has not eliminated a deep split over abortion rights.
More: Supreme Court strikes down abortion clinic restrictions in Louisiana, a defeat for conservatives
The court ruled 5-4 in late June that a Louisiana law requiring doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals would unduly burden women. Chief Justice John Roberts cast the deciding vote, though he did not sign on to the lead opinion endorsed by the court's four liberal justices.
The court reached the same conclusion in 2016 regarding a Texas law, but since then, Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh succeeded retired Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy, giving abortion opponents hope for more substantial restrictions. Kavanaugh joined the dissenters in Monday's ruling.
Discrimination at heart of suit
Plaintiffs say that the new law would disproportionately affect the health care access of minority Tennesseans.
The restrictive ban limits access to medical care, including abortion, particularly for those struggling financially and those who already face significant barriers to health care — including people of color and people who live in rural areas, according to a statement from the ACLU of Tennessee.
“It’s past time for the politicians in our state get the message that they cannot insert themselves in someone else’s personal, private decision to end their pregnancy. We will continue to stand with our partners and fight back against politicians’ attacks on constitutionally-protected abortion care," said Hedy Weinberg, executive director, ACLU of Tennessee, in an emailed statement.
A request for comment has been sent to Lee's office.
Natalie Allison and Joel Ebert contributed. Reach reporter Mariah Timms at mtimms@tennessean.com or 615-259-8344 and on Twitter @MariahTimms.


usatoday--2020-07-14--Prosecutors in Ghislaine Maxwell case say proposed $5 million bond is 'effectively meaningless'

WASHINGTON – The government is doubling down in its bid to keep Ghislaine Maxwell in jail while awaiting trial and expressed skepticism about the proposed bail package secured by foreign property , calling it `` effectively meaningless . ''
Maxwell 's attorneys have proposed a $ 5 million bond , secured by properties in the U.S. and Great Britain .
But prosecutors on Monday said the package `` amounts to little more than an unsecured bond '' because the property Maxwell is pledging as collateral is outside American jurisdiction and `` therefore is of no value . ''
Her bail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a British socialite and longtime associate of Jeffrey Epstein , was arrested and charged this month with helping to procure young victims for the disgraced financier 's child sex trafficking operation that began more than 25 years ago .
A federal grand jury in New York indicted Maxwell on perjury and conspiracy charges that accuse her of helping Epstein “ recruit , groom , and ultimately abuse victims ” between 1994 and 1997 .
Both allegedly knew the victims were under age 18 and as young as 14 .
'Not Epstein ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maxwell , cite COVID threat Since the arrest , investigators have talked to more witnesses who want to provide information about Maxwell .
`` The Government is in the process of receiving and reviewing this additional evidence , which has the potential to make the Government 's case even stronger , '' prosecutors said .
In court filings ahead of Tuesday 's bail hearing , prosecutors reasserted their claim that she is a flight risk , citing her vast financial resources and citizenship in multiple countries , including one that does not extradite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has a track record of living in hiding and has not been forthcoming about details of her wealth , which they said would reveal her financial means to escape .
Prosecutors also revealed new information about Maxwell 's arrest on July 2 at a remote and massive New Hampshire property , which they said was guarded by former members of the British military hired by Maxwell 's brother .
`` As the agents approached the front door of the main house , they announced themselves as FBI agents and directed the defendant to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the agents saw the defendant ignore the direction to open the door and , instead , try to flee to another room in the house , quickly shutting a door behind her , '' prosecutors wrote .
Agents later found Maxwell in one of the rooms .
They also found a cellphone wrapped in foil , `` a seemingly misguided attempt to evade detection . ''
Aside from the $ 5 million bond , Maxwell 's attorneys offered to surrender all her travel documents and home confinement with electronic monitoring .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to distance her from the disgraced financier .
`` Ghislaine Maxwell is not Jeffrey Epstein , '' defense lawyers said in court documents Friday .
`` Ms. Maxwell vigorously denies the charges , intends to fight them , and is entitled to the presumption of innocence , '' attorneys asserted , adding that she had not attempted to flee the United States following Epstein 's arrest and jail suicide last year .
`` She should be treated like any other defendant who comes before this Court , including as to bail . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , prosecutors said Maxwell , who 's being held at a federal facility in Brooklyn , has not claimed that she faces a higher risk from COVID-19 exposure than other inmates .

Prosecutors in Ghislaine Maxwell case say proposed $5 million bond is 'effectively meaningless'
Show Caption Hide Caption Ghislaine Maxwell: Epstein associate arrested for part in sex trafficking Ghislaine Maxwell, longtime associate of Jeffrey Epstein, has been arrested as part of the continuing federal inquiry into the child sex trafficking. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – The government is doubling down in its bid to keep Ghislaine Maxwell in jail while awaiting trial and expressed skepticism about the proposed bail package secured by foreign property, calling it "effectively meaningless."
Maxwell's attorneys have proposed a $5 million bond, secured by properties in the U.S. and Great Britain. But prosecutors on Monday said the package "amounts to little more than an unsecured bond" because the property Maxwell is pledging as collateral is outside American jurisdiction and "therefore is of no value."
Her bail hearing is scheduled for Tuesday.
Maxwell, a British socialite and longtime associate of Jeffrey Epstein, was arrested and charged this month with helping to procure young victims for the disgraced financier's child sex trafficking operation that began more than 25 years ago.
A federal grand jury in New York indicted Maxwell on perjury and conspiracy charges that accuse her of helping Epstein “recruit, groom, and ultimately abuse victims” between 1994 and 1997. Both allegedly knew the victims were under age 18 and as young as 14.
'Not Epstein': Attorneys argue for bail for Ghislaine Maxwell, cite COVID threat
Since the arrest, investigators have talked to more witnesses who want to provide information about Maxwell. "The Government is in the process of receiving and reviewing this additional evidence, which has the potential to make the Government's case even stronger," prosecutors said.
In court filings ahead of Tuesday's bail hearing, prosecutors reasserted their claim that she is a flight risk, citing her vast financial resources and citizenship in multiple countries, including one that does not extradite to the U.S. They said Maxwell has a track record of living in hiding and has not been forthcoming about details of her wealth, which they said would reveal her financial means to escape.
Prosecutors also revealed new information about Maxwell's arrest on July 2 at a remote and massive New Hampshire property, which they said was guarded by former members of the British military hired by Maxwell's brother.
"As the agents approached the front door of the main house, they announced themselves as FBI agents and directed the defendant to open the door. Through a window, the agents saw the defendant ignore the direction to open the door and, instead, try to flee to another room in the house, quickly shutting a door behind her," prosecutors wrote.
Agents later found Maxwell in one of the rooms. They also found a cellphone wrapped in foil, "a seemingly misguided attempt to evade detection."
More: Days after Ghislaine Maxwell's arrest, Epstein accuser demands investigation into sexual battery allegation
Aside from the $5 million bond, Maxwell's attorneys offered to surrender all her travel documents and home confinement with electronic monitoring. They also cited the coronavirus threat while attempting to distance her from the disgraced financier.
"Ghislaine Maxwell is not Jeffrey Epstein," defense lawyers said in court documents Friday.
"Ms. Maxwell vigorously denies the charges, intends to fight them, and is entitled to the presumption of innocence," attorneys asserted, adding that she had not attempted to flee the United States following Epstein's arrest and jail suicide last year. "She should be treated like any other defendant who comes before this Court, including as to bail."
While acknowledging the threat of the pandemic, prosecutors said Maxwell, who's being held at a federal facility in Brooklyn, has not claimed that she faces a higher risk from COVID-19 exposure than other inmates.
Contributing: Kevin Johnson
Ghislaine Maxwell: She's accused of grooming Epstein's victims


usatoday--2020-07-13--Judge in Roger Stone case wants more information about the scope of clemency

WASHINGTON – U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson is seeking more information about the scope of President Donald Trump 's executive order commuting the sentence of his longtime ally , Roger Stone .
Jackson on Monday ordered parties to give her a copy of the executive order commuting Stone 's sentence and to clarify if the clemency also covers supervised release , which the political operative would have had to serve after his prison sentence .
The judge sentenced Stone to a little over three years in prison and two years on probation .
Jackson said her inquiry was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office .
Stone gets clemency : Trump grants clemency to ally Roger Stone after railing against 'unfair ' conviction , sentencing Trump commuted Stone 's sentence late Friday , just days before longtime GOP consultant was set to report to prison .
Democrats condemned the move , the latest in a series of instances in which Trump has wielded his broad clemency powers in highly political criminal cases .
The president has granted pardons and commutations to several conservative allies and controversial figures , including Joe Arpaio , a former sheriff in Arizona @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision to commute Stone 's sentence represents the first time Trump has circumvented the justice system in a case directly tied to himself .
Stone was convicted in November of lying to Congress and obstructing its investigation on Russian election interference in order to protect Trump .
The 67-year-old was one of several Trump associates to be convicted in cases stemming from former special counsel Robert Mueller 's investigation into Russia 's interference in the 2016 election .

Judge in Roger Stone case wants more information about the scope of clemency
Show Caption Hide Caption Trump grants clemency to Roger Stone President Donald Trump commuted the sentence of his longtime confidant Roger Stone. USA TODAY, Wochit
WASHINGTON – U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson is seeking more information about the scope of President Donald Trump's executive order commuting the sentence of his longtime ally, Roger Stone.
Jackson on Monday ordered parties to give her a copy of the executive order commuting Stone's sentence and to clarify if the clemency also covers supervised release, which the political operative would have had to serve after his prison sentence.
The judge sentenced Stone to a little over three years in prison and two years on probation. Jackson said her inquiry was in response questions from the U.S. Probation Office.
Stone gets clemency: Trump grants clemency to ally Roger Stone after railing against 'unfair' conviction, sentencing
Trump commuted Stone's sentence late Friday, just days before longtime GOP consultant was set to report to prison. Democrats condemned the move, the latest in a series of instances in which Trump has wielded his broad clemency powers in highly political criminal cases.
The president has granted pardons and commutations to several conservative allies and controversial figures, including Joe Arpaio, a former sheriff in Arizona, and commentator Dinesh D'Souza. His decision to commute Stone's sentence represents the first time Trump has circumvented the justice system in a case directly tied to himself.
Stone was convicted in November of lying to Congress and obstructing its investigation on Russian election interference in order to protect Trump. The 67-year-old was one of several Trump associates to be convicted in cases stemming from former special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's interference in the 2016 election.
Contributing: John Fritze and Kevin Johnson


usatoday--2020-07-13--'Cruel, abrupt and unlawful': States sue Trump administration over college student visa rule

WASHINGTON – Seventeen states and the District of Columbia sued President Donald Trump 's administration Monday to block a new rule that would force international college students to leave United States if they ’ re only enrolled in online classes this fall .
Some universities are planning to offer classes entirely online because of concerns about the pandemic .
The new rule could be devastating for students and universities alike .
The lawsuit , filed by 18 attorneys general against the Department of Homeland Security , calls the new rule a “ cruel , abrupt and unlawful action to expel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrought death and disruption across the United States.
” The Trump administration issued the new immigration policy last week , as it seeks to force universities and K-12 schools to reopen in the fall despite soaring COVID-19 infections across the country .
The lawsuit highlights a July 6 tweet from President Trump declaring : `` SCHOOLS MUST OPEN IN THE FALL !
!
! ''
The new rule , issued by the immigration and customs agency , is a reversal of the federal government 's policy in the spring , when international students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ colleges abruptly closed campuses because of the pandemic .
The shift has enraged many educators and lawmakers , who say the new rule threatens to upend careful planning by universities and wreak havoc for the approximately 1 million foreign students who attend American colleges each year .
`` It makes absolutely no sense and actually takes away from the vibrancy and the energy of our colleges and universities , because our international students bring a unique perspective to the classroom and really enrich the educational experience for everyone , '' said Gary Locke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who is now interim president of Bellevue College .
Led by Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey , Monday 's lawsuit seeks an injunction to stop the rule from taking effect while the matter is litigated .
Healey filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts , along with attorneys general from Colorado to Michigan to Wisconsin .
Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology filed a similar challenge last week , which was supported by several other universities .
Healey said the rule would force schools to choose `` between keeping their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and safety of their campuses.
” Under the new Trump administration policy , international students enrolled at institutions that offer classes entirely online in the fall would need to transfer to a school that offers a hybrid of online and in-person classes – or leave the country and take online classes from their home countries , Carissa Cutrell , acting ICE deputy press secretary , said last week .
She defended the policy , saying students could engage in remote learning `` as any other student would at that school , '' but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that argument ignores the reality that many international students would face significant barriers to online learning in their home countries .
They would be in different time zones and may not have reliable internet access , among other problems .
School reopening plans have become political , too : White House pushes to reopen schools , while teachers fear for their safety The Trump administration 's reversal could be a major economic blow to colleges and universities , as well as the communities surrounding them , because of the loss of tuition and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay full price .
The number of international students studying in the U.S. reached 1.1 million in the 2018/19 academic year , according to the Institute of International Education , and they make up 5.5 % of the total U.S. higher education population .
International students contributed nearly $ 45 billion to the U.S. economy in 2018 , according to data from the U.S. Department of Commerce .
But it 's not just a question of economics .
International students bring new perspectives and diverse cultures to campus life , enriching academia in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new rule `` will be severely detrimental to the education of thousands of international students and will cause long-term damage to the world ’ s view of our country and our openness to talented students from everywhere , '' Robert A .
Brown , president of Boston University , said in a statement supporting Monday 's lawsuit .
The lawsuit argues the new policy imposes substantial harm on schools and students and alleges the Trump administration 's actions are abuse of authority and a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act .
That 1946 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforce regulations .

'Cruel, abrupt and unlawful': States sue Trump administration over college student visa rule
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus outbreak in university frat houses At least 80 students living in a dozen fraternity houses near the University of Washington campus in Seattle have reported testing positive for COVID-19, with hundreds of results pending, the university says. (July 3) AP
WASHINGTON – Seventeen states and the District of Columbia sued President Donald Trump's administration Monday to block a new rule that would force international college students to leave United States if they’re only enrolled in online classes this fall.
Some universities are planning to offer classes entirely online because of concerns about the pandemic. The new rule could be devastating for students and universities alike.
The lawsuit, filed by 18 attorneys general against the Department of Homeland Security, calls the new rule a “cruel, abrupt and unlawful action to expel international students amidst the pandemic that has wrought death and disruption across the United States.”
The Trump administration issued the new immigration policy last week, as it seeks to force universities and K-12 schools to reopen in the fall despite soaring COVID-19 infections across the country. The lawsuit highlights a July 6 tweet from President Trump declaring: "SCHOOLS MUST OPEN IN THE FALL!!!"
The new rule, issued by the immigration and customs agency, is a reversal of the federal government's policy in the spring, when international students were allowed to attend online-only classes as colleges abruptly closed campuses because of the pandemic.
The shift has enraged many educators and lawmakers, who say the new rule threatens to upend careful planning by universities and wreak havoc for the approximately 1 million foreign students who attend American colleges each year.
"It makes absolutely no sense and actually takes away from the vibrancy and the energy of our colleges and universities, because our international students bring a unique perspective to the classroom and really enrich the educational experience for everyone," said Gary Locke, the former governor of Washington State who is now interim president of Bellevue College.
Led by Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, Monday's lawsuit seeks an injunction to stop the rule from taking effect while the matter is litigated. Healey filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts, along with attorneys general from Colorado to Michigan to Wisconsin. Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology filed a similar challenge last week, which was supported by several other universities.
Healey said the rule would force schools to choose "between keeping their international students enrolled and protecting the health and safety of their campuses.”
Under the new Trump administration policy, international students enrolled at institutions that offer classes entirely online in the fall would need to transfer to a school that offers a hybrid of online and in-person classes – or leave the country and take online classes from their home countries, Carissa Cutrell, acting ICE deputy press secretary, said last week.
She defended the policy, saying students could engage in remote learning "as any other student would at that school," but from their home countries.
Critics say that argument ignores the reality that many international students would face significant barriers to online learning in their home countries. They would be in different time zones and may not have reliable internet access, among other problems.
School reopening plans have become political, too: White House pushes to reopen schools, while teachers fear for their safety
The Trump administration's reversal could be a major economic blow to colleges and universities, as well as the communities surrounding them, because of the loss of tuition and other revenue from international students who typically pay full price.
The number of international students studying in the U.S. reached 1.1 million in the 2018/19 academic year, according to the Institute of International Education, and they make up 5.5% of the total U.S. higher education population.
International students contributed nearly $45 billion to the U.S. economy in 2018, according to data from the U.S. Department of Commerce.
But it's not just a question of economics. International students bring new perspectives and diverse cultures to campus life, enriching academia in vital ways, colleges say.
The new rule "will be severely detrimental to the education of thousands of international students and will cause long-term damage to the world’s view of our country and our openness to talented students from everywhere," Robert A. Brown, president of Boston University, said in a statement supporting Monday's lawsuit.
The lawsuit argues the new policy imposes substantial harm on schools and students and alleges the Trump administration's actions are abuse of authority and a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act. That 1946 law governs how federal agencies make and enforce regulations.