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The Hill

House passes bipartisan bill addressing electricity costs from data centers

On September 16, 2026, the House passed the Ratepayer Protection Act, which seeks to address the rising electricity costs associated with data centers. The bill encourages states to adopt standards that would require tech companies to bear these costs, though it does not compel them to regulate.

Axios

House Passes Ratepayer Protection Act to Address AI Data Center Costs

On September 16, 2026, the House passed the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act with a vote of 417-3, aimed at mitigating the rising costs of infrastructure related to artificial intelligence. The legislation requires state utility regulators to consider rules that would make data centers responsible for some power generation costs, reflecting growing public concern over the impact of AI development.

Washington Examiner

House Approves Sanctions Bill Targeting Russia and Iran

The House of Representatives passed a sanctions bill targeting Russia and Iran on September 16, 2026, with a vote of 262-159. The bill, named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, aims to strengthen sanctions against both countries and grants President Trump authority to impose tariffs on Russian oil importers. The legislation has faced opposition from some Democrats concerned about its implications for U.S. foreign policy.

PBS NewsHour

House Recesses Early; Helicopter Crash in Los Angeles; European Union and Canada Relations

The U.S. House will recess a day early, leaving several issues unresolved, including an impeachment effort against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. A helicopter crash in Los Angeles resulted in three fatalities, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed Canada as the first associate member of the EU. In Gaza, search-and-rescue efforts continue after a building collapse killed at least 21 people.

Guardian — US

US Congress Passes Bill Enhancing Presidential Powers to Sanction Russia

The US Congress has approved a bill that grants President Donald Trump the authority to raise tariffs on significant buyers of Russian energy and impose further sanctions on Russia. The bill, named after the late Senator Lindsey O. Graham, passed with a vote of 262-159 amid debates over presidential power and support for Ukraine.

PBS NewsHour

Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Discusses U.S. Relations Amid Tensions

Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío discussed the strained relations between Cuba and the U.S. during an interview. He highlighted the impact of U.S. sanctions and military threats on the Cuban population and expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue, while emphasizing Cuba's sovereignty and the challenges faced by the nation due to external pressures.

cnbc.com

Trump Calls for Interest Rate Reduction Following Fed's Rate Hike

President Donald Trump has called for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates to 1% or less following the Fed's recent rate hike. In a Truth Social post, Trump criticized the current rate and reiterated his belief that the U.S. should not be supporting other countries economically. The Fed's decision to raise rates was unanimous, citing elevated inflation as a concern.

studyfinds.com

Study Links Thinning Retinas to Increased Risk of Atrial Fibrillation

A study has found a correlation between retinal thinning and an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, with a 27% higher risk for each additional step of thinning detected. The research analyzed eye scans from over 90,000 individuals, revealing that retinal changes could serve as an early warning signal for heart issues. The findings suggest that eye scans may complement existing diagnostic methods for atrial fibrillation.

cnbc.com

Impact of U.S.-Iran Conflict on Household Finances Estimated at $1,760

The ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict has led to increased financial pressures on American households, with an estimated impact of $1,760 per household since the conflict began. Rising oil prices and Treasury yields are contributing to higher costs for energy, borrowing, and military spending. The average price of gasoline has surpassed $4.32, while mortgage rates have exceeded 7%, further complicating affordability for consumers.

ms.now

U.S. Military Families Report Increased Risks Amid Ongoing Conflict with Iran

U.S. military families report heightened concerns as service members face undisclosed missile attacks amid ongoing hostilities with Iran. Families describe the emotional toll on deployed troops, many of whom are stationed at bases that have become targets. The Pentagon has not publicly disclosed many details about these attacks, raising concerns about operational security and the well-being of service members.

PBS NewsHour

North Carolina Senate Race Seen as Key Opportunity for Democrats

The North Carolina Senate race is viewed as a critical opportunity for Democrats to flip a Republican seat, with former Governor Roy Cooper leading in polls against Republican candidate Michael Whatley. President Trump's recent visit to support Whatley may energize the Republican base, but his low approval ratings could impact the election outcome. Key issues in the race include affordability and crime.

New York Times — US

Congress Approves Sanctions Bill Targeting Russia

Congress has passed a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russian officials, oligarchs, financial institutions, and energy companies. The bill will be sent to President Trump for his approval.

New York Times — Politics

Congress Approves Sanctions Bill Targeting Russia

Congress has approved a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting various Russian entities, including officials and financial institutions. The bill will now be forwarded to President Trump for his consideration.

NPR — Top Stories

House passes sanctions bill targeting Russian oil and gas imports

The U.S. House has approved a sanctions bill that allows the president to levy tariffs on significant importers of Russian oil and gas, specifically targeting nations like China and India. The legislation is named after Senator Lindsey Graham, who has passed away.

Al Jazeera English

Palestinians Rely on Local Radio for Updates Amid Road Closures and Attacks

Palestinians in the West Bank rely on local radio station Basma FM for updates on road closures and attacks amid ongoing conflict. The station provides traffic updates and information about military checkpoints, which are crucial for residents navigating dangerous travel conditions. Reports indicate a significant increase in barriers and restrictions on Palestinian movement since the outbreak of violence.