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number 234 Barclays PLC boosted its position in Capitol Federal Financial, Inc. ( NASDAQ:CFFN – Free Report ) by 71.3% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 271,769 shares of the savings and loans company’s stock after purchasing an additional 113,106 shares during the period. Barclays PLC owned about 0.20% of Capitol Federal Financial worth $1,587,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. A number of other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. GAMMA Investing LLC raised its stake in shares of Capitol Federal Financial by 20.7% during the 3rd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 11,648 shares of the savings and loans company’s stock worth $68,000 after buying an additional 1,995 shares in the last quarter. Diversified Trust Co grew its holdings in Capitol Federal Financial by 10.0% during the third quarter. Diversified Trust Co now owns 26,573 shares of the savings and loans company’s stock worth $155,000 after acquiring an additional 2,425 shares during the period. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. grew its holdings in Capitol Federal Financial by 9.0% during the third quarter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. now owns 33,215 shares of the savings and loans company’s stock worth $194,000 after acquiring an additional 2,731 shares during the period. WINTON GROUP Ltd raised its position in Capitol Federal Financial by 12.6% in the second quarter. WINTON GROUP Ltd now owns 27,172 shares of the savings and loans company’s stock worth $149,000 after acquiring an additional 3,050 shares in the last quarter. Finally, KBC Group NV lifted its holdings in Capitol Federal Financial by 59.8% in the third quarter. KBC Group NV now owns 9,256 shares of the savings and loans company’s stock valued at $54,000 after acquiring an additional 3,463 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 88.51% of the company’s stock. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Separately, Piper Sandler upped their price target on shares of Capitol Federal Financial from $6.50 to $7.00 and gave the stock a “neutral” rating in a research note on Thursday, October 24th. Capitol Federal Financial Price Performance CFFN stock opened at $5.95 on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $6.55 and a 200-day moving average of $6.05. The company has a market cap of $790.01 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.52 and a beta of 0.48. The company has a current ratio of 1.31, a quick ratio of 1.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.11. Capitol Federal Financial, Inc. has a 12-month low of $4.76 and a 12-month high of $7.20. Capitol Federal Financial ( NASDAQ:CFFN – Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 23rd. The savings and loans company reported $0.09 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.07 by $0.02. The firm had revenue of $101.65 million during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $45.40 million. Capitol Federal Financial had a return on equity of 4.69% and a net margin of 9.95%. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.04 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts expect that Capitol Federal Financial, Inc. will post 0.45 EPS for the current fiscal year. Capitol Federal Financial Announces Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 1st were paid a dividend of $0.085 per share. This represents a $0.34 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.71%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, November 1st. Capitol Federal Financial’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 117.24%. Insider Buying and Selling In other Capitol Federal Financial news, Director James G. Morris acquired 15,000 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 2nd. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $6.84 per share, with a total value of $102,600.00. Following the purchase, the director now directly owns 85,995 shares in the company, valued at approximately $588,205.80. This trade represents a 21.13 % increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link . Insiders own 3.20% of the company’s stock. Capitol Federal Financial Company Profile ( Free Report ) Capitol Federal Financial, Inc operates as the holding company for Capitol Federal Savings Bank that provides various retail banking products and services in the United States. The company accepts a range of deposit products, including savings accounts, money market accounts, interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing checking accounts, and certificates of deposit. Featured Articles Five stocks we like better than Capitol Federal Financial Upcoming IPO Stock Lockup Period, Explained S&P 500 ETFs: Expense Ratios That Can Boost Your Long-Term Gains How to Invest in Blue Chip Stocks How AI Implementation Could Help MongoDB Roar Back in 2025 Low PE Growth Stocks: Unlocking Investment Opportunities Hedge Funds Boost Oil Positions: Is a Major Rally on the Horizon? Receive News & Ratings for Capitol Federal Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Capitol Federal Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

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With their win over the New England Patriots , the Los Angeles Chargers clinched a spot playoff in the upcoming NFL postseason. While that is worth celebrating, they also lost starting free safety Elijah Molden , who suffered a broken fibula in the win. Molden will miss the remainder of the Chargers 2024 campaign. Elijah Molden Ruled Out For Chargers Playoff Run Molden emerged as a valuable asset to the Chargers’ defense under the guidance of head coach Jim Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. Thrust into a starting role, Molden demonstrated versatility and playmaking ability. His addition via trade shortly before the season allowed Minter to move Derwin James to various positions on the field and became a critical member of the team as Alohi Gilman struggled to stay healthy. Molden combined for 71 tackles, including two for loss. In coverage he allowed just 18 receptions on 27 targets for 173 yards, amounting to a 44.8 NFL passer rating. He also picked off three passes and recovered two fumbles. Molden missed Week 16 with a knee injury and was questionable to play against the Patriots with the same ailment. New addition Eddie Jackson and veteran Tony Jefferson filled in for Molden once he left the game. The Chargers have found their secondary bare due to injuries. Gilman is now on the injured reserve along with Asante Samuel Jr., Marcus Maye, and Eli Apple. This has forced the team to rely heavily on rookie fifth-rounders, Tarheeb Still and Cam Hart. While the young duo has played admirably, their level of competition is about to take a big leap in the tougher direction as they embark on their playoff run. They will likely play the Buffalo Bills or the Baltimore Ravens in the Wild Card round. This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.Brock Bowers' record-setting season has him in offensive rookie of the year conversationLowe scores career-high 22, leads Pitt over LSU 74-63 in Greenbrier Tip-Off

NoneSTOCKHOLM (AP) — Two-time defending champion Barcelona clinched the last quarterfinal spot in the Women’s Champions League by beating Hammarby 3-0 in Stockholm on Thursday. Ewa Pajor fired Barcelona ahead with two first-half goals from close range and Aitana Bonmatí finished it off 10 minutes before the final whistle. Following a 2-0 loss to Manchester City in the opening group stage game, Barcelona scored 23 goals in the following four games and conceded one. Man City defeated St. Pölten 2-0 to keep a perfect record and lead Group D with 15 points. Barcelona is three points behind and will host City next Wednesday in the final group game. In Group C, Alessia Russo scored twice and Arsenal beat last-place Vålerenga 3-1 to keep pressure on group leader Bayern Munich. Arsenal produced another dominant display under interim coach Renée Slegers. Frida Maanum also scored for Arsenal and set up Russo's opener. Vålerenga, which retained its domestic league title and just claimed the Norwegian Cup to complete a double, got a consolation goal from substitute Tilde Lindwall. Bayern routed Juventus 4-0 to lead the group with 13 points, one ahead of Arsenal. The two will clash over the top spot in London next week. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

LONDON -- Bukayo Saka will miss more than two months after undergoing surgery on a hamstring injury, Mikel Arteta has says. Saka limped out of Arsenal's 5-1 win over Crystal Palace on December 21, the latest hammer blow of a season in which the Gunners have suffered a string of injuries to key players. None will be more profoundly felt than the absence of their leading chance creator, assist provider, ball progressor and shot taker. "He had a procedure, everything went well but unfortunately he will be out for many, many weeks," said Arteta, who added when pressed for a timescale: "I said many weeks. I think it will be more than two months. I don't know exactly how much longer. I think it will depend on the scar tissue that starts to heel in the first week or so, the mobility of that. Let's see." Even if Arteta's assessment is slightly too conservative, an absence of just the two months would see Saka miss a further nine Premier League games at a time when Arsenal need a winning run to haul in Liverpool. He would also miss the remainder of the Champions League league phase games, the knockout round if Arsenal are required to play it and may even be a doubt for the round of 16. Saka was not the only forward missing from the Arsenal side that ran out 1-0 winners over Ipswich, Raheem Sterling missing from a second straight Premier League matchday squad with a knee injury. That, however, is progressing encouragingly for Arsenal. "The news with Raz I think is better," said Arteta. "We have to see this week how he evolves but we expected the injury to probably take longer than actually the way the knee is evolving in the last few days. Hopefully that's good because we need it." Sterling has struggled to impress since joining on loan from Chelsea on deadline day but given Saka's absence opportunities will doubtless come his way to turn the tide. Replacing Saka will surely be beyond a 30 year old who appears to be in decline but, robbed of one of the Premier League's best players, Arsenal are going to need all the hope they can get.FIU 35, Middle Tennessee 24

UNITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The team looking for a missing Pennsylvania woman believed to have fallen into a sinkhole has determined that an abandoned coal mine is too unstable for people to safely search underground, authorities said Wednesday while still expressing hope Elizabeth Pollard will be found alive. Rescue workers continue to search for Elizabeth Pollard, who is believed to have disappeared in a sinkhole while looking for her cat, Wednesday in Marguerite, Pa. Emergency crews and others have been trying to find Pollard, 64, for two days. Her relatives reported her missing early Tuesday and her vehicle with her unharmed 5-year-old granddaughter inside was found about two hours later, near what is thought to be a freshly opened sinkhole above the long closed, crumbling mine. Authorities said in a noon update that the roof of the mine collapsed in several places and is not stable. The sinkhole is in the village of Marguerite, about 40 miles east of Pittsburgh. “We did get, you know, where we wanted, where we thought that she was at. We’ve been to that spot," said Pleasant Unity Fire Chief John Bacha, the incident's operations officer. “What happened at that point, I don’t know, maybe the slurry of mud pushed her one direction. There were several different seams of that mine, shafts that all came together where this happened at.” Trooper Cliff Greenfield said crews were still actively searching for Pollard. “We are hopeful that she’s found alive,” Greenfield said. Searchers were using electronic devices and cameras as surface digging continued with the use of heavy equipment, Bacha said. Search dogs may also be used. Rescue workers search through the night in a sinkhole for Elizabeth Pollard, who disappeared while looking for her cat, Tuesday in Marguerite, Pa. On Wednesday afternoon, machinery was removing material from the area around the hole while police and other government vehicles blocked a clear view of the scene. Sinkholes occur in the area because of subsidence from coal mining activity. Rescuers had been using water to break down and remove clay and dirt from the mine, which has been closed since the 1950s, but that increased the risk “for potential other mine subsidence to take place," Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper Steve Limani said. Crews lowered a pole camera with a sensitive listening device into the hole, but it detected nothing. Another camera lowered into the hole showed what could be a shoe about 30 feet below the surface, Limani said. Searchers have also deployed drones and thermal imaging equipment, to no avail. Marguerite Fire Chief Scot Graham, the incident commander, said access to the immediate area surrounding the hole was being tightly controlled and monitored, with rescuers attached by harness. The top of a sinkhole is seen Tuesday in the village of Marguerite, Pa., where rescuers searched for a woman who disappeared. “We cannot judge as to what’s going on underneath us. Again, you had a small hole on top but as soon as you stuck a camera down through to look, you had this big void,” Graham said. “And it was all different depths. The process is long, is tedious. We have to make sure that we are keeping safety in the forefront as well as the rescue effort.” Bacha said they were “hoping that there’s a void that she could still be in.” Pollard's family called police at about 1 a.m. Tuesday to say she had not been seen since going out at about 5 p.m. Monday to search for Pepper, her cat. The temperature dropped well below freezing that night. Her son, Axel Hayes, said Pollard is a happy woman who likes going out to have fun. She and her husband adopted Hayes and his twin brother when they were infants. Hayes called Pollard “a great person overall, a great mother” who “never really did anybody wrong.” He said at one point Pollard had about 10 cats. “Every cat that she’s ever come in contact with, she has a close bond with them,” Hayes said. His mother worked for many years at Walmart but recently was not employed, he said. “I’m just hoping right now that she’s still with us and she’s able to come back to us,” he said. Police said they found Pollard's car parked behind Monday's Union Restaurant in Marguerite, about 20 feet from the sinkhole. Hunters and restaurant workers in the area said they had not noticed the manhole-size opening in the hours before Pollard disappeared, leading rescuers to speculate that the sinkhole was new. “It almost feels like it opened up with her standing on top of it,” Limani said. Searchers accessed the mine late Tuesday afternoon and dug a separate entrance out of concern that the ground around the sinkhole opening was not stable. “Let’s be honest, we need to get a little bit lucky, right?” Limani said Wednesday. “We need a little bit of luck on our side. We need a little bit of God’s good blessing on our side.” Pollard lives in a small neighborhood across the street from where her car and granddaughter were located, Limani said. The young girl “nodded off in the car and woke up. Grandma never came back," Limani said. The child stayed in the car until two troopers rescued her. It's not clear what happened to Pepper. In an era of rapid technological advancement and environmental change, American agriculture is undergoing a revolution that reaches far beyond the farm gate. From the food on consumer plates to the economic health of rural communities, the transformation of U.S. farming practices is reshaping the nation's landscape in ways both visible and hidden. LandTrust explores how these changes impact everyone, whether they live in the heartland or the heart of the city. The image of the small family farm, while still a reality for many, is increasingly giving way to larger, more technologically advanced operations. According to the USDA, the number of farms in the U.S. has fallen from 6.8 million in 1935 to about 2 million today, with the average farm size growing from 155 acres to 444 acres. This shift has profound implications for rural communities and the food system as a whole. Despite these changes, diversity in farming practices is on the rise. A landmark study published in Science , involving data from over 2,000 farms across 11 countries, found that diversifying farmland simultaneously delivers environmental and social benefits. This challenges the longstanding idea that practices boosting biodiversity must come at a cost to yields and food security. The adoption of precision agriculture technologies is transforming how farmers manage their land and resources. GPS-guided tractors, drone surveillance, and AI-powered crop management systems are becoming commonplace on many farms. These technologies allow farmers to apply water, fertilizers, and pesticides with pinpoint accuracy, reducing waste and environmental impact while improving yields. However, the digital divide remains a challenge. More than 22% of rural communities lack reliable broadband internet access, hindering the widespread implementation of AI and other advanced technologies in agriculture. While technology offers new opportunities, farmers are also facing significant economic challenges. The USDA's 2024 farm income forecast projects a 4.4% decline in net farm income from 2023, following a sharp 19.5% drop from 2022 to 2023. This financial pressure is compounded by rising production costs and market volatility. Climate variability adds another layer of complexity. Extreme weather events, changing precipitation patterns, and shifting growing seasons are forcing farmers to adapt quickly. These factors could reduce agricultural productivity by up to 25% over the coming decades without significant adaptation measures. But adapting requires additional financial resources, further straining farm profitability. In the face of these challenges, many farmers are turning to diversification as a strategy for resilience and profitability. The Science study mentioned earlier found that farms integrating several diversification methods supported more biodiversity while seeing simultaneous increases in human well-being and food security. Agritourism is one popular diversification strategy. In 2022, 28,600 U.S. farms reported agritourism income, averaging gross revenue of $44,000 from these activities. Activities like farm tours, pick-your-own operations, and seasonal festivals not only provide additional income but also foster a deeper connection between consumers and agriculture. The changing face of agriculture is directly impacting consumers. The rise of farm-to-table and local food movements reflects a growing interest in where our food comes from and how it's produced. If every U.S. household spent just $10 per week on locally grown food, it would generate billions of dollars for local economies. However, the larger challenges in agriculture can also lead to price fluctuations at the grocery store. The USDA's Economic Research Service projects that food-at-home prices will increase between 1.2% and 2.2% in 2024. Looking ahead, several innovations are poised to reshape agriculture: The transformation of American agriculture affects everyone, from the food we eat to the health of our environment and rural communities. Consumers have the power to support sustainable and diverse farming practices through our purchasing decisions. As citizens, they can advocate for policies that support farmers in adopting innovative and sustainable practices. The challenges facing agriculture are complex, but they also present opportunities for innovation and positive change. By understanding and engaging with these issues, everyone can play a part in shaping a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food system for the future. This story was produced by LandTrust and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

The integration of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into major infrastructure projects is rapidly transforming the landscape of Malaysia’s development sector. From the ambitious Pan Borneo Highway to water supply dams, renewable energy initiatives and mixed development projects, the Malaysian government is placing ESG principles at the forefront of planning and implementation. This approach not only ensures long-term sustainability but also aligns the nation with global standards of responsible development. Planners, designers, builders and policymakers across the country are now tasked with embedding ESG considerations into every phase of their projects. By doing so, they are shaping infrastructure that balances environmental conservation, social inclusivity and governance transparency, thus ensuring a future that benefits all stakeholders. Tan The Push for ESG in Infrastructure Malaysia’s adoption of ESG principles in infrastructure projects is a response to pressing global and local challenges. Climate change, environmental degradation, social inequality, and governance lapses have made it imperative to rethink the traditional approach to development. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim underscored the importance of ESG in a recent policy announcement, stating, “The integration of ESG is not an option; it is a necessity. By incorporating these principles into our infrastructure projects, we are building a resilient and sustainable future for Malaysia.” The government’s ESG agenda aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Malaysia’s net-zero carbon commitment by 2050. As such, ESG adoption is being heavily promoted through policies, incentives and stricter regulations that guide planners, designers, builders and policymakers toward more sustainable practices. Pan Borneo Highway: A Model of ESG Integration One of the flagship projects showcasing ESG adoption in Malaysia is the Pan Borneo Highway. Spanning Sabah and Sarawak, this transformative project is designed to improve connectivity, boost economic activity, and enhance the quality of life for millions of Malaysians. However, the project’s success is not just measured in kilometers of road laid. It is also evaluated based on how well it integrates ESG principles: 1. Environmental: Measures are being taken to minimize deforestation, protect wildlife habitats, and reduce carbon emissions during construction. The inclusion of wildlife crossings ensures that the highway does not disrupt the migration patterns of endangered species. 2. Social: Local communities are actively involved in the decision-making process, ensuring that the project benefits them without causing undue displacement or disruption. Efforts to provide employment opportunities to locals are also prioritized. 3. Governance: Transparent procurement processes and strict compliance with environmental laws underscore the project’s governance framework. Regular audits and reports ensure accountability at every stage. The Pan Borneo Highway is setting a benchmark for ESG-integrated infrastructure, demonstrating how large-scale projects can achieve economic goals while respecting environmental and social priorities. Water Supply Dams: Balancing Growth and Conservation Water supply dams are critical to Malaysia’s efforts to ensure water security, manage floods, and support agricultural and industrial activities. However, these projects have historically faced criticism for their environmental and social impacts. The adoption of ESG principles is now changing that narrative. 1. Environmental: Before construction, detailed Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are conducted to identify potential risks to ecosystems and biodiversity. Mitigation measures, such as the reforestation of surrounding areas and the inclusion of fish passages, are being implemented. 2. Social: Community consultations play a pivotal role in planning dam projects. Efforts are made to compensate and relocate affected communities fairly, ensuring they receive improved living conditions and opportunities. 3. Governance: Policies promoting accountability and transparency in project execution ensure that public funds are used responsibly. Additionally, local governments work closely with environmental and social organizations to monitor the projects’ long-term impacts. Renewable Energy Projects: Driving the Green Agenda Renewable energy projects are central to Malaysia’s transition toward a low-carbon economy. Solar farms, wind turbines, and hydropower plants are being developed across the country, with ESG principles guiding every step of the process. 1. Environmental: Renewable energy projects significantly reduce the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. Many projects also incorporate eco-friendly technologies to further minimize their environmental footprint. 2. Social: These projects create green jobs and foster community development. Local stakeholders are engaged to ensure that the benefits of renewable energy projects are equitably distributed, particularly in rural and underdeveloped regions. 3. Governance: The government has established policies that encourage private-sector investment in renewable energy. Sustainability-linked financing mechanisms and tax incentives are helping drive the adoption of green technologies. Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad noted, “Renewable energy is not just about environmental sustainability; it is about empowering communities and creating a just energy transition.” Mixed Development Projects: Building Smart and Inclusive Communities Mixed development projects are redefining urban spaces in Malaysia by integrating residential, commercial, and recreational facilities into sustainable ecosystems. ESG principles are embedded into the design and execution of these projects to ensure they contribute to a greener and more inclusive future. 1. Environmental: Green buildings, energy-efficient designs, and smart technologies are being incorporated to reduce the carbon footprint of these developments. Renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, are increasingly becoming standard features. 2. Social: Mixed development projects prioritize inclusivity by offering affordable housing, accessible public transportation, and community spaces. Planners and designers aim to create environments that cater to people from all walks of life, fostering social cohesion. 3. Governance: Developers are held accountable for adhering to ESG guidelines, with regular audits and public disclosures ensuring transparency. Local governments also play a key role in monitoring compliance and facilitating stakeholder engagement. Challenges in ESG Implementation Despite the government’s strong push for ESG adoption, challenges remain: 1. High Initial Costs: Incorporating ESG principles often requires significant upfront investment, which can deter some stakeholders. However, the long-term savings and benefits outweigh these costs. 2. Skill Gaps: There is a need for more training and capacity-building initiatives to equip planners, designers, builders, and policymakers with the knowledge and skills required to implement ESG effectively. 3. Resistance to Change: Some industry players are hesitant to adopt new practices, citing concerns about profitability and feasibility. Government incentives and awareness campaigns are crucial in overcoming this resistance. Government Incentives for ESG Adoption To encourage ESG adoption, the Malaysian government has introduced several initiatives: • Tax Incentives: Developers and contractors who integrate ESG principles into their projects are eligible for tax breaks and rebates. • Green Financing: Sustainability-linked loans and green bonds are being promoted to fund ESG-compliant projects. • Policy Frameworks: Stricter regulations and comprehensive guidelines ensure that all major infrastructure projects adhere to ESG standards. The Path Forward The adoption of ESG principles in Malaysia’s major infrastructure projects represents a transformative shift in the nation’s development strategy. By balancing economic growth with environmental conservation, social equity, and governance transparency, Malaysia is paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive future. Planners, designers, builders, financial industry players and policymakers have a critical role to play in this journey. Their collective efforts will determine the success of the nation’s ESG agenda and its impact on future generations. As Malaysia continues to champion ESG integration, the Pan Borneo Highway, water supply dams, renewable energy projects, and mixed development initiatives will stand as testaments to the country’s commitment to responsible and sustainable development. With strong government support and stakeholder collaboration, Malaysia is well on its way to becoming a regional leader in ESG-driven infrastructure.Sportscaster Greg Gumbel dies from cancer at age 78

HALIFAX — Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston named an expanded 21-member cabinet Thursday during a ceremony in downtown Halifax that excluded reporters in a departure from a long-standing tradition of open coverage. In an address that was livestreamed, Houston said his newly re-elected government would continue to deal with issues that matter to Nova Scotians, including health care, housing and affordability. “This term will also be very focused on growing our economy and continuing to lower taxes,” the premier said. “We have to grow our economy to be better able to support the services that Nova Scotians have a right to expect.” Before the election, in which the Tories won 43 of the legislature's 55 seats, Houston led a 17-member cabinet. The government allowed only one television outlet to have a pool camera at the ceremony held at the Halifax Convention Centre, citing “limited capacity” inside the building that occupies a full city block. Journalists who tried to enter Thursday were turned away by building security. Houston was asked by reporters as he arrived why the media were not being given access to the new cabinet members. “It’s all live streamed ... It’s a really exciting day, you guys have lots of access, and you guys know that,” he said. Reporters were allowed to attend the swearing-in ceremony held at the same venue after the Tories were first elected in 2021, although it was during the COVID-19 pandemic and they were placed in a separate room to monitor the event before interviewing ministers. In the new cabinet, Houston will be joined by veterans John Lohr, who becomes finance minister, Becky Druhan, who moves from education to justice, and Michelle Thompson, who continues as minister of health. There are five new members, including political newcomer Leah Martin as minister of Communications Nova Scotia and L’ nu affairs and Fred Tilley, a former Liberal who crossed the floor just before the Nov. 26 election and becomes minister of public works. The other new ministers are Dave Ritcey in the tourism portfolio, Nolan Young, who is minister of labour, and Scott Armstrong as minister of opportunities and social development — formerly the Department of Community Services. In another departmental change, veteran minister Colton LeBlanc will head the new Department of Growth and Development, which was formerly known as economic development and will now also oversee housing. Composed of 14 men and seven women, the cabinet will see Barbara Adams return as minister of seniors and long-term care and serve as deputy premier. Tim Halman retains the environment portfolio and Tory Rushton stays on in natural resources, while Kim Masland moves from public works to the Department of Emergency Management. The former community services minister, Brendan Maguire, takes over education and also assumes the duties of advanced education from Brian Wong, who was dropped from cabinet along with Susan Corkum-Greek, the former minister of economic development. Alex Marland, a political scientist at Acadia University, said the government could have found room for reporters had it wanted to. “This isn’t a new government, so there are some experienced hands who at a minimum could have been made available,” Marland said. He added that in general, there are governments that feel the need to control their message, and that also tend to be cautious with newer ministers who lack media training. “If this is a pattern and it persists, that’s going to be a problem for the Houston government," he said. "But if this is a one off and by January things are a little different because people have gone through media training, then a lot of it will be forgotten.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 12, 2024. — With files from Lyndsay Armstrong Keith Doucette, The Canadian PressALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York state government agencies will have to conduct reviews and publish reports that detail how they're using artificial intelligence software, under a new law signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul. Hochul, a Democrat, signed the bill last week after it was passed by state lawmakers earlier this year. The law requires state agencies to perform assessments of any software that uses algorithms, computational models or AI techniques, and then submit those reviews to the governor and top legislative leaders along with posting them online. It also bars the use of AI in certain situations, such as an automated decision on whether someone receives unemployment benefits or child care assistance, unless the system is being consistently monitored by a human. State workers would also be shielded from having their hours or job duties limited because of AI under the law. State Sen. Kristen Gonzalez, a Democrat who sponsored the bill, called the law an important step in setting up some guardrails in how the emerging technology is used in state government.