Latest news with #MichelleHenry
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
'Shifted the entire landscape': State AG's new unit investigates reports, provides network for law enforcement
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General's new Human Trafficking Section, with a small staff of agents and attorneys, has about 100 open human trafficking investigations or referred cases at any given time. It was founded in January 2024 by then-Attorney General Michelle Henry, marking the first time the commonwealth had a division specifically dedicated to combating human trafficking. 'Our goals are to keep expanding the network of law enforcement officers that are committed to stopping human trafficking, to conduct more thorough investigations, to have successful prosecutions and also to keep the lines of communication open,' said current Attorney General Dave Sunday, a Republican. 'The reality is that the more traffickers are charged, the more survivors there are in recovery, and then the more public awareness exists in the community about human trafficking.' Pa. AG says human trafficking 'scourge' in need of more public awareness Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday testifies in February 2025 in the state House during a budget hearing. State Sen. Cris Dush, R-Jefferson, said Sunday has been 'great' in dealing with human trafficking and has some 'really dedicated people that have taken this to heart' working in the section. 'The problem for the attorney general's office prior to about two years ago was that the people investigating it were a part of the organized crime unit,' said Dush, a leading figure in the state's anti-trafficking efforts. 'It was pulling resources away from it. And there was a need there to actually develop some expertise.' Dush said he would like to get at least $1.5 million or even $2 million in the budget to expand staffing of the human trafficking section. He thinks that level of funding would bolster the unit in carrying out its mission. 'As (the attorney general), and the local law enforcement, and state police and others are diving into this and starting to bring prosecutions, we're going to hear more about it,' Dush said. 'It's not necessarily that the human trafficking has increased. It's that with the reporting, we're finding it and it's going to be more relevant.' 'In any community' Sunday, who took office in January, said there has been an increase in collaboration and communication among state, regional and local partners, along with the public becoming more aware of the issue. 'The data, again, are overwhelming that you have better outcomes when that does happen,' Sunday said. Incidents have been reported all across the commonwealth. 'Human trafficking is something that isn't limited to certain types of areas,' Sunday said. 'It's something that can happen in any community. We want to make sure that not just law enforcement, but the public as well, that they're aware of the signs of human trafficking. And when that happens, just like any other crime, then it's way more likely that a victim of human trafficking will be spotted and someone will report it to law enforcement.' 'Trafficking and drugs' There are often some common links – specifically drugs – in human trafficking cases, according to Sunday. That could be the trafficker being a dealer, the victim having substance abuse problems or both. 'Human trafficking and drugs go hand-in-hand,' Sunday said. Sunday said traffickers often recruit people and keep them under the influence of drugs – preying on individuals they view as money-making property. 'That is truly repulsive and dehumanizing behavior,' Sunday said. He said that 'oftentimes' investigations into human trafficking start with a drug case. 'The laws in Pennsylvania changed (a few years ago) to include within the definition of human trafficking people that are performing sex in return for drugs,' Sunday said. 'When that happened, it completely shifted the entire landscape on how law enforcement views human trafficking investigations.'
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SHAPE Announces Winners of 2025 Skin Awards
SHAPE Editors Awarded Over 100 Skincare Products Across Categories Such as Face, Body, Devices, Medical Aesthetics, Men's, Kids and More NEW YORK, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SHAPE today announced the 2025 SHAPE Skin Awards, a curated list of 100 editor and expert approved skincare products, devices, and treatments that reflect the year's most innovative and effective advancements in skin health and wellness. The 2025 Skin Awards are available now on here. This year, SHAPE's editors and dedicated product testers evaluated over 500 skincare launches and breakthroughs, from derm-recommended serums to cutting-edge at-home LED devices, to arrive at a list of over 100 winners. In 2025, SHAPE broadened the awards to include skin essentials for men, tweens, teens, and kids, spotlighting products that reflect the growing reach of skincare today. The SHAPE Skin Awards showcase innovation, but also excellence at delivering tried-and-true formulas with clinically proven ingredients. "Everything on our winning list is meant to be used with joy and appreciation for your body and what it can do—and that includes aging, the ultimate luxury. Some trends we're loving include subtle and natural fillers, the regenerative power of salmon sperm cream, hair growth peptides, and pre-and post-workout fragrance—a category that's exploded this year," says Jill Di Donato, the editorial director of the 2025 SHAPE Skin Awards. To ensure each winner delivered results backed by science and experience, SHAPE enlisted a panel of leading skincare professionals, including board-certified dermatologists, a trichologist, a plastic surgeon, and formulation specialists. The 2025 SHAPE Skin Awards Expert Panel includes: Michelle Henry, MD, FAAD: Board-certified Cosmetic Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon Kimberlee Blakley: Licensed Trichologist Sarah Chung Park: Beauty Tech Product Developer and Ingredient Specialist Dendy Engelman, MD, FAAD: Board-certified Dermatologist and Dermatologic Surgeon Holly Moore, MPH: Beauty Product Developer and Ingredient Specialist The SHAPE Skin Awards highlight wellness and skin fitness, showcasing the products that are leveling up the skincare industry through innovation and impact. The team of experts and editors tested products across a wide range of skin types, concerns, tones, and age groups. The final guide features trusted, time-tested brands and emerging newcomers, spanning all price points, from accessible drugstore finds to luxury offerings. The full list of winners in SHAPE's 2025 Skin Awards can be read below and online here. Face:Best For Flare-Ups: PHOILEX Active ReLeaf Spot GelBest Regenerative Serum: Skinceuticals Advanced RGN-6Best Cleanser: Drunk Elephant Mello Marula™ Cream CleanserBest Growth Factor Serum: The Ordinary GF 15% SolutionBest Plumping Serum: BeautyStat Triple-Plump Coconut Milk SerumBest Moisturizer For Mature Skin: Yon-Ka Time Resist JourBest Firming Eye Cream: NEOCUTIS Lumiére® FirmBest Moisturizer For Oily Skin: PCA ClearskinBest Lifting Serum: Neostrata Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum with MicroDiPeptide229®Best For Blemishes: Epionce Lite Lytic TxBest Lip Serum: Retrouve Hydrating Lip SerumBest Tinted Lip Gloss: The Outset Lip Oasis Glossy TreatmentBest Pore Blurring Sunscreen: Saint Jane Beauty Saint Sun Ritual Mineral SPF 30 Pore Smoothing SunscreenBest Reparative Cream: Musely Cell Repair SerumBest Peptide Eye Cream: G.M. Collin Bota Peptides Eye ContourBest Peptide Eye Serum: Sonage A-Eye Peptide SerumBest Collagen Treatment: Dr. Diamond Instafacial InfusionBest Multi-Tasking Treatment: Valmont Prime Renewing PackBest Face Mask: 111 SKIN Cryo De-Puffing Facial MaskBest Eye Mask: All Golden 360 Degree Firming Eye PatchesBest Antioxidant Serum: Obagi Super Antioxidant SerumBest Tinted Face Sunscreen: Alastin Hydra Tint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36Best Face Sunscreen: Exuviance Daily Corrector with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35Best For Redness: Zo Skin Health Rozatrol®Best Peel: iS Clinical PeelBest Overnight Mask: Noble Panacea Chronobiology Sleep MaskBest Skin Barrier Repair: COSRX The Ceramide MoisturizerBest Postbiotic Skin Care: AV Laboratories Face Cream LightBest Stay Put Brow Gel: Milani Stay Put Tinted Brow MousseBest Stay-Put Mascara: MAC Stack Elevated MascaraBest Makeup Setting Spray: E.L.F Power Grip Setting SprayBest Post Workout Makeup: Furtuna Skin Face & Eye SerumBest Serum: Nourished3 Brightening Radiance Super Serum Body:Best Massage Oil: Higher Dose Oxytocin Body OilBest Body Serum: Naturium Urea 5% Body SerumBest Body Cream: Flamingo Estate Manuka Rich CreamBest Foot Care Cream: Birkenstock Foot Care Essentials Softening RitualBest Shower Gel: Soft Services Comfort CleanseBest Body Butter: Mutha Body ButterBest Body Gua Sha: Tronque Body Contour MassagerBest Clean Fragrance Rollerball: Cerato Vibrant FieldBest Shower Steamer: Esker Shower Steamer Discovery SetBest Women's Deodorant: Bille Santal Blossom All-Day DeodorantBest Anti-Odorant Pads: Surface Deep Anti-Odorant PadsBest Whole Body Deodorant: Secret Aluminum Free Whole Body Deodorant Dry Feel CreamBest Bath Bomb: Lush Cold Water Soother Bath BombBest Body SPF: Mama Sol Bodybrella Mineral Hydrating Milk Spf 40body SpfBest Self Tanner: St Tropez Sunlit Skin Self TannerBest Anti-Chafe Stick: Fur Chafe CushionBest Bath Soak: Neom Perfect Night's Sleep Magnesium Bath MilkBest Body Oil: Irene Forte Rose Body Oil Devices:Best Led Lip Mask: Metamorphosis Lush Lips TransformationBest Led Eye Mask: SmoothskinBest Microcurrent Device: NuFace FIX MicroWandBest Red & Infrared Mask: Solawave Wrinkle Retreat Face MaskBest For Acne: ZIIP DOT Nanocurrent and Microcurrent Acne Treatment DeviceBest Innovation In Led Mask: CurrentBodySkin LED Light Therapy Face Mask Series 2Best Led Device For Hair Growth: FOREO LUNA™ 4 hair Hair:Best Hair Peptide: Omi Hair Growth Peptides For WomenBest Dry Shampoo: Redken Deep Clean Dry Shampoo DuoBest Scalp Scrub: Nulastin Vibrant Scalp ScrubBest Peptide Spray: Lolavie Peptide Plumping Volume SprayBest Hair Growth Serum: Nutrafol Hair SerumBest Hair Mask: California Naturals Deep Repair Hair MaskBest Repairing Shampoo And Conditioner: Monday Hair Care Repair Shampoo And ConditionerBest Shampoo And Conditioner For Dandruff: Cerave 2-In-1 Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo And Conditioner Kids:Best Kids Sunscreen: Seaweed Bath Co. SPF 50 SunscreenBest Kids Bandages: All Better Co. Better BandageBest Body Wash for Kids: Daise Beauty Foaming Body Wash Tween and Teen:Best Teen Deodorant: Rile The Pits DeodorantBest Teen Acne Patch: Florence By Mills Spot A Spot Acne PatchesBest Sunscreen Stick: SunBum Original Face and Body Stick 40Best Teen SPF Lip Balm: SOL LABS® SPF 15 Hydrating Lavender Mint Lip Balm: Natural, Nourishing & K-Beauty Inspired Sun ProtectionBest Sheet Mask: Skin Laundry Hydrating Facial Sheet Mask Gym Bag Essentials:Best in Fragrance Tech: Future Society Optimal Habitat Fragrance Enhancing PrimerBest Body Wash For Travel: AKT The Body Wash ConcentrateBest Cleanser For Sensitive Skin: Sonsie Cleansing MousseBest Toning Pads: Femmue Rose Infused Toning PadsBest Post Workout Fragrance: Tracy Anderson Fragrance Spring Break Sweat Eau de ParfumBest Lash Serum: Colorescience Total Lash Serum MascaraBest Hair Tool: T3 AIRE IQBest Eye Roller: b+L Blue Lagoon Eye SerumBest Gym Makeup Bag: Stony Clover Lane Large PouchBest Post Workout Glow: Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin GlowBest Hypochlorous Acid Spray: Prequel Universal Skin Solution Dermal SprayBest On-The-Go Essentials Pack: YSE Beauty The Roadies Packable AM Routine Men's:Best Hair Growth: Men's Rogaine Two-In-One Thickening Shampoo And ConditionerBest After Shave: Kiehl's Ultimate Razor Burn & Bump ReliefBest Beard Oil: Pura D'OR Organic Beard Softening OilBest Men's Deodorant: Degree Extreme Antiperspirant Deodorant Dry SprayBest Men's Moisturizer: M/STR Daily Anti-Ageing Moisturizer Medical Aesthetics:Best Filler: EvolysseBest Membership Treatment Model: EvolusIcon Award For Best Neurotoxin: BotoxBest Medical Aesthetic Facial: HydrafacialBest For Eye Lifts: upneeqBest Filler For Hand Rejuvenation: RadiesseBest Non-Invastive Lifting: Ultherapy PRIMEMost Subtle Neurotixin: XeominBest For Nasolabial Folds: BeloteroBest Laser: FraxelBest Minimal Downtime Laser: Clear + Brilliant ABOUT SHAPESHAPE serves as the definitive resource for the woman who leads an active lifestyle, delivering science-backed information, inspiring stories, and a proven roadmap to navigate the journey to her goals. We understand her, we motivate her, and we speak to her directly in a trusted, friendly voice—about the race she trains for, the cooking class she wants to try, the adventure trip she goes on, the workout trend that piques her interest, the new skin care routine she has been searching for. With SHAPE, she has the tools and motivation to stay active, healthy, and happy—today and every day. SHAPE's encouragement and backing of expert editors and contributing board of advisors helps her to shape her biggest and boldest life. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Dotdash Meredith Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SHAPE Announces Winners of 2025 Skin Awards
SHAPE Editors Awarded Over 100 Skincare Products Across Categories Such as Face, Body, Devices, Medical Aesthetics, Men's, Kids and More NEW YORK, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SHAPE today announced the 2025 SHAPE Skin Awards, a curated list of 100 editor and expert approved skincare products, devices, and treatments that reflect the year's most innovative and effective advancements in skin health and wellness. The 2025 Skin Awards are available now on here. This year, SHAPE's editors and dedicated product testers evaluated over 500 skincare launches and breakthroughs, from derm-recommended serums to cutting-edge at-home LED devices, to arrive at a list of over 100 winners. In 2025, SHAPE broadened the awards to include skin essentials for men, tweens, teens, and kids, spotlighting products that reflect the growing reach of skincare today. The SHAPE Skin Awards showcase innovation, but also excellence at delivering tried-and-true formulas with clinically proven ingredients. "Everything on our winning list is meant to be used with joy and appreciation for your body and what it can do—and that includes aging, the ultimate luxury. Some trends we're loving include subtle and natural fillers, the regenerative power of salmon sperm cream, hair growth peptides, and pre-and post-workout fragrance—a category that's exploded this year," says Jill Di Donato, the editorial director of the 2025 SHAPE Skin Awards. To ensure each winner delivered results backed by science and experience, SHAPE enlisted a panel of leading skincare professionals, including board-certified dermatologists, a trichologist, a plastic surgeon, and formulation specialists. The 2025 SHAPE Skin Awards Expert Panel includes: Michelle Henry, MD, FAAD: Board-certified Cosmetic Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon Kimberlee Blakley: Licensed Trichologist Sarah Chung Park: Beauty Tech Product Developer and Ingredient Specialist Dendy Engelman, MD, FAAD: Board-certified Dermatologist and Dermatologic Surgeon Holly Moore, MPH: Beauty Product Developer and Ingredient Specialist The SHAPE Skin Awards highlight wellness and skin fitness, showcasing the products that are leveling up the skincare industry through innovation and impact. The team of experts and editors tested products across a wide range of skin types, concerns, tones, and age groups. The final guide features trusted, time-tested brands and emerging newcomers, spanning all price points, from accessible drugstore finds to luxury offerings. The full list of winners in SHAPE's 2025 Skin Awards can be read below and online here. Face:Best For Flare-Ups: PHOILEX Active ReLeaf Spot GelBest Regenerative Serum: Skinceuticals Advanced RGN-6Best Cleanser: Drunk Elephant Mello Marula™ Cream CleanserBest Growth Factor Serum: The Ordinary GF 15% SolutionBest Plumping Serum: BeautyStat Triple-Plump Coconut Milk SerumBest Moisturizer For Mature Skin: Yon-Ka Time Resist JourBest Firming Eye Cream: NEOCUTIS Lumiére® FirmBest Moisturizer For Oily Skin: PCA ClearskinBest Lifting Serum: Neostrata Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum with MicroDiPeptide229®Best For Blemishes: Epionce Lite Lytic TxBest Lip Serum: Retrouve Hydrating Lip SerumBest Tinted Lip Gloss: The Outset Lip Oasis Glossy TreatmentBest Pore Blurring Sunscreen: Saint Jane Beauty Saint Sun Ritual Mineral SPF 30 Pore Smoothing SunscreenBest Reparative Cream: Musely Cell Repair SerumBest Peptide Eye Cream: G.M. Collin Bota Peptides Eye ContourBest Peptide Eye Serum: Sonage A-Eye Peptide SerumBest Collagen Treatment: Dr. Diamond Instafacial InfusionBest Multi-Tasking Treatment: Valmont Prime Renewing PackBest Face Mask: 111 SKIN Cryo De-Puffing Facial MaskBest Eye Mask: All Golden 360 Degree Firming Eye PatchesBest Antioxidant Serum: Obagi Super Antioxidant SerumBest Tinted Face Sunscreen: Alastin Hydra Tint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36Best Face Sunscreen: Exuviance Daily Corrector with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35Best For Redness: Zo Skin Health Rozatrol®Best Peel: iS Clinical PeelBest Overnight Mask: Noble Panacea Chronobiology Sleep MaskBest Skin Barrier Repair: COSRX The Ceramide MoisturizerBest Postbiotic Skin Care: AV Laboratories Face Cream LightBest Stay Put Brow Gel: Milani Stay Put Tinted Brow MousseBest Stay-Put Mascara: MAC Stack Elevated MascaraBest Makeup Setting Spray: E.L.F Power Grip Setting SprayBest Post Workout Makeup: Furtuna Skin Face & Eye SerumBest Serum: Nourished3 Brightening Radiance Super Serum Body:Best Massage Oil: Higher Dose Oxytocin Body OilBest Body Serum: Naturium Urea 5% Body SerumBest Body Cream: Flamingo Estate Manuka Rich CreamBest Foot Care Cream: Birkenstock Foot Care Essentials Softening RitualBest Shower Gel: Soft Services Comfort CleanseBest Body Butter: Mutha Body ButterBest Body Gua Sha: Tronque Body Contour MassagerBest Clean Fragrance Rollerball: Cerato Vibrant FieldBest Shower Steamer: Esker Shower Steamer Discovery SetBest Women's Deodorant: Bille Santal Blossom All-Day DeodorantBest Anti-Odorant Pads: Surface Deep Anti-Odorant PadsBest Whole Body Deodorant: Secret Aluminum Free Whole Body Deodorant Dry Feel CreamBest Bath Bomb: Lush Cold Water Soother Bath BombBest Body SPF: Mama Sol Bodybrella Mineral Hydrating Milk Spf 40body SpfBest Self Tanner: St Tropez Sunlit Skin Self TannerBest Anti-Chafe Stick: Fur Chafe CushionBest Bath Soak: Neom Perfect Night's Sleep Magnesium Bath MilkBest Body Oil: Irene Forte Rose Body Oil Devices:Best Led Lip Mask: Metamorphosis Lush Lips TransformationBest Led Eye Mask: SmoothskinBest Microcurrent Device: NuFace FIX MicroWandBest Red & Infrared Mask: Solawave Wrinkle Retreat Face MaskBest For Acne: ZIIP DOT Nanocurrent and Microcurrent Acne Treatment DeviceBest Innovation In Led Mask: CurrentBodySkin LED Light Therapy Face Mask Series 2Best Led Device For Hair Growth: FOREO LUNA™ 4 hair Hair:Best Hair Peptide: Omi Hair Growth Peptides For WomenBest Dry Shampoo: Redken Deep Clean Dry Shampoo DuoBest Scalp Scrub: Nulastin Vibrant Scalp ScrubBest Peptide Spray: Lolavie Peptide Plumping Volume SprayBest Hair Growth Serum: Nutrafol Hair SerumBest Hair Mask: California Naturals Deep Repair Hair MaskBest Repairing Shampoo And Conditioner: Monday Hair Care Repair Shampoo And ConditionerBest Shampoo And Conditioner For Dandruff: Cerave 2-In-1 Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo And Conditioner Kids:Best Kids Sunscreen: Seaweed Bath Co. SPF 50 SunscreenBest Kids Bandages: All Better Co. Better BandageBest Body Wash for Kids: Daise Beauty Foaming Body Wash Tween and Teen:Best Teen Deodorant: Rile The Pits DeodorantBest Teen Acne Patch: Florence By Mills Spot A Spot Acne PatchesBest Sunscreen Stick: SunBum Original Face and Body Stick 40Best Teen SPF Lip Balm: SOL LABS® SPF 15 Hydrating Lavender Mint Lip Balm: Natural, Nourishing & K-Beauty Inspired Sun ProtectionBest Sheet Mask: Skin Laundry Hydrating Facial Sheet Mask Gym Bag Essentials:Best in Fragrance Tech: Future Society Optimal Habitat Fragrance Enhancing PrimerBest Body Wash For Travel: AKT The Body Wash ConcentrateBest Cleanser For Sensitive Skin: Sonsie Cleansing MousseBest Toning Pads: Femmue Rose Infused Toning PadsBest Post Workout Fragrance: Tracy Anderson Fragrance Spring Break Sweat Eau de ParfumBest Lash Serum: Colorescience Total Lash Serum MascaraBest Hair Tool: T3 AIRE IQBest Eye Roller: b+L Blue Lagoon Eye SerumBest Gym Makeup Bag: Stony Clover Lane Large PouchBest Post Workout Glow: Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin GlowBest Hypochlorous Acid Spray: Prequel Universal Skin Solution Dermal SprayBest On-The-Go Essentials Pack: YSE Beauty The Roadies Packable AM Routine Men's:Best Hair Growth: Men's Rogaine Two-In-One Thickening Shampoo And ConditionerBest After Shave: Kiehl's Ultimate Razor Burn & Bump ReliefBest Beard Oil: Pura D'OR Organic Beard Softening OilBest Men's Deodorant: Degree Extreme Antiperspirant Deodorant Dry SprayBest Men's Moisturizer: M/STR Daily Anti-Ageing Moisturizer Medical Aesthetics:Best Filler: EvolysseBest Membership Treatment Model: EvolusIcon Award For Best Neurotoxin: BotoxBest Medical Aesthetic Facial: HydrafacialBest For Eye Lifts: upneeqBest Filler For Hand Rejuvenation: RadiesseBest Non-Invastive Lifting: Ultherapy PRIMEMost Subtle Neurotixin: XeominBest For Nasolabial Folds: BeloteroBest Laser: FraxelBest Minimal Downtime Laser: Clear + Brilliant ABOUT SHAPESHAPE serves as the definitive resource for the woman who leads an active lifestyle, delivering science-backed information, inspiring stories, and a proven roadmap to navigate the journey to her goals. We understand her, we motivate her, and we speak to her directly in a trusted, friendly voice—about the race she trains for, the cooking class she wants to try, the adventure trip she goes on, the workout trend that piques her interest, the new skin care routine she has been searching for. With SHAPE, she has the tools and motivation to stay active, healthy, and happy—today and every day. SHAPE's encouragement and backing of expert editors and contributing board of advisors helps her to shape her biggest and boldest life. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Dotdash Meredith Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Yahoo
DHS launches security feature allowing SNAP users to digitally lock EBT cards
May 18—WILKES-BARRE — The Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Office of State Inspector General (OSIG) this week launched a new security feature that allows Pennsylvanians who receive public benefits to lock their electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card when not in use to prevent those benefits from being stolen. EBT cards are used for benefits like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other cash benefits. "When someone's SNAP benefits are stolen from their EBT card, that means they may not be able to feed themselves or their families that month," said DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh. "That is unacceptable. DHS has been working diligently with our partners in OSIG to ensure that the benefits we administer stay with the Pennsylvanians who need them." DHS and OSIG are aware of recent instances of SNAP theft in Pennsylvania and nationwide, especially in incidents of card skimming, where SNAP benefits are stolen off EBT cards after they are used at a point-of-sale machine with an attached skimming device. The new card lock feature is one way individuals can protect their EBT cards while they are not in use. DHS continues to refer suspected cases of SNAP theft to OSIG to further investigate. "OSIG is committed to protecting Pennsylvania's public benefits programs," said State Inspector General Michelle Henry. "The new card lock feature is one way SNAP recipients can protect their benefits against theft and continue to put food on their table. OSIG is proud to partner with DHS on the announcement of the EBT card lock feature which provides an extra layer of security for these life-sustaining benefits." Pennsylvania will offer a new EBT card-lock safety feature available through ConnectEBT. Locking an EBT card blocks all purchases, balance inquiries and transactions to keep benefits secure. EBT cardholders should always lock their card when it is not in use, then simply unlock before making a purchase, officials said. SNAP and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients can lock and unlock their EBT cards using the free ConnectEBT app, available on Apple and Google Play app stores, or via the Connect EBT website. Upon creating or logging into their ConnectEBT app or website user account, recipients can tap the Lock/Unlock Card button. There are two options for the card lock feature: —"Lock My Card Everywhere" will prevent all types of purchases, including in-store and online purchases. —"Lock My Card Outside PA" will prevent all purchases at stores outside Pennsylvania but will still allow purchases in Pennsylvania and will also allow all internet purchases. Users should simply re-lock their card after use or use the auto re-lock feature to automatically re-lock the card 30, 60 or 90 minutes after unlocking. Prevent card skimming Skimming does not just happen immediately after a card is swiped; thieves often collect access information like a PIN and continue to steal benefits to maximize their gain. DHS urges benefit recipients to lock their EBT card and change their PIN monthly to further prevent theft. Pennsylvanians are urged to take an extra look before swiping their card at a point-of-sale machine to ensure there is no skimming attachment. Skimming devices, often called skimmers, are designed to blend in and deceive customers, but there are ways to identify a fraudulent device: —Observe the size. Skimming devices are often placed over the legitimate card reader. Making them larger than legitimate card readers. —Pull at the edges of the point-of-sale device before use. Skimming devices are often attached with glue or tape. —Look for security stickers. Some legitimate devices may have a security label or holographic decal on the front or top of the card reader. If your SNAP benefits are stolen from an EBT card, that theft should be immediately reported to local law enforcement and to OSIG by calling 1-800-932-0582. Hearing on chronic absenteeism and truancy held The Senate Education Committee held a public hearing on Monday, May 12, to examine the growing issue of chronic absenteeism and truancy in Pennsylvania schools and explore policy solutions to improve student attendance and long-term success. The hearing featured testimony from a wide range of professionals, including representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the American Enterprise Institute, school counselors and administrators, magisterial district judges, and human services officials from Allegheny County. Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver, R-Sunbury, who chairs the Senate Education Committee, thanks the testifiers for their insight and emphasized the importance of continued focus on the issue. "Chronic absenteeism is often a sign that a student is facing challenges beyond the classroom — whether it's family instability, health concerns, or a lack of school engagement," Culver said. "Solving this issue requires early intervention, flexibility, and collaboration between schools, courts, and community-based services." Culver said that input gathered during the hearing will inform future legislative efforts aimed at reducing absenteeism, supporting schools and families, and ensuring students have every opportunity to succeed. Bill to combat construction worker exploitation passes State Rep. Kyle Donahue, D-Scranton, this week announced that his legislation to crack down on the exploitation of construction workers through misclassification has passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. House Bill 721 would strengthen and expand the Construction Workplace Misclassification Act, originally enacted to combat the illegal practice of classifying employees as independent contractors to avoid paying benefits and protections guaranteed under state law. "Misclassification cheats workers out of wages, benefits, and critical protections like unemployment and workers' compensation," Donahue said. "These are the same hardworking individuals doing the same jobs as properly classified employees, but they are denied the rights they deserve. This legislation brings fairness and justice to those workers." The Keystone Research Center estimates that the misclassification of construction workers costs Pennsylvania taxpayers an estimated $83 million in lost workers' compensation premiums, $47 million in unpaid state income taxes, and $11 million in unemployment compensation taxes annually. Additionally, a report from the Joint Task Force on Misclassification of Employees found that in 2021 alone, nearly 11,000 misclassified workers in Pennsylvania were injured or became ill on the job and were denied workers' compensation benefits. The task force also reported $91 million in lost revenue to the state's Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund. "This isn't just about protecting workers — it's about protecting taxpayers and leveling the playing field for law-abiding contractors," Donahue said. "Construction jobs should be good, family-sustaining jobs. But when bad actors misclassify workers, everyone loses — except the dishonest employer." House Bill 721 would implement several unanimous recommendations made by the task force and takes critical steps to strengthen enforcement. The bill would: —Increase penalties on contractors who knowingly misclassify employees. —Empower the state Attorney General to investigate and prosecute cases of misclassification. —Allow misclassified employees to bring civil action against their employers. "With rising living costs and economic pressures, the last thing Pennsylvania workers should have to worry about is being robbed of their hard-earned wages and benefits," Donahue said. House Bill 721 heads to the Pennsylvania Senate for consideration. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Associated Press
15-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
TraceGains Closes Strong Q1, Doubling European Presence and Launching Industry-First AI Tech Amidst Recognition on 'FoodTech 500' List in Top Percentile
Source-to-Shelf Networked Ecosystem Provider Appoints European Regional Sales Director, Launches AI-Powered Compliance Solution and Tops 'FoodTech 500' List WESTMINSTER, Colo., April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TraceGains, the leading provider of compliance, quality, and innovation solutions for the food and beverage (F&B) industry, today announced it has outperformed in Q1 across multiple areas including its leadership team, global presence, technology innovation and business performance. TraceGains' string of accomplishments includes: the appointment of Michelle Henry as Regional Sales Director to oversee growth in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (DACH market), recognition as #31 on the global 2024 FoodTech 500 list, a new AI-powered Intelligent Document Processing (IDP) solution and record-breaking attendance at its annual Together conference. Michelle joins TraceGains from Esko, a Veralto company and global provider of integrated software and hardware solutions that accelerate the go-to-market process of packaged consumer products. She previously held the role of Sales Manager for EMEA Brands. At TraceGains, she will focus on new hires in Europe, rapidly expanding regional sales coverage, and scaling European revenues for TraceGains and Esko's integrated source to shelf solution for unified product and packaging innovation. 'With the power of Veralto behind us, we are fast-tracking market expansion and growth to help global F&B brands manage today's supply chain challenges and regulatory nuances,' said Gary Iles, SVP of Marketing and Business Development at TraceGains. 'We're fortunate to have Michelle's leadership to accelerate our vision of helping food and beverage brands solve real-world challenges using the most advanced technology available such as AI and creating a source to shelf ecosystem that help brands remain agile amidst unforeseen economic challenges that may lie ahead.' 'Joining the TraceGains team is an amazing opportunity to build on the company's rapid growth in Europe as global F&B brands look for integrated, end-to-end solutions to improve the integrity and resilience of their global supply chains,' said Michelle Henry. 'Alongside the TraceGains team, I look forward to helping European F&B brands ensure product safety, regulatory compliance and sustainability while achieving their business goals.' Following its largest ever annual Together conference drawing 3,200 registrants, the company unveiled Intelligent Document Processing – a vertically tailored AI-powered solution optimized for the industry built on OpenAI and enhanced with a proprietary knowledge layer derived from decades of contextual F&B data unique to TraceGains. The solution streamlines Certificate of Analysis (COA) processing, replacing manual 'stare and compare' methods to ensure a product's compliance in terms of quality, performance, and safety. In March 2025, TraceGains was also recognized by ForwardFooding as #31 on the global 2024 FoodTech 500 list, which highlights companies that are acting as a force of good for creating a brighter future of food. With over 1,400 applicants from 50 countries, TraceGains ranks in the top 2% of candidates. For more information, please visit About TraceGains Founded in 2008, TraceGains has revolutionized the food and beverage industry with the first Source-to-Shelf networked ecosystem. By digitizing processes and insights using advanced Artificial Intelligence, TraceGains provides comprehensive solutions for compliance, nutritional calculation and labeling, new product development, environmental, social, and governance, and packaging in collaboration with Esko and other Veralto companies. Our clients capitalize on these tools to navigate the complexities of the global food and beverage industry, ensuring safer, compliant products reach customers faster and at reduced costs, thereby creating a competitive edge in their market launches. Trusted by over 1,500 global clients, including more than half of the top 100 food and beverage manufacturers, the TraceGains network connects brands through a vast global ecosystem of 90,000 supplier locations and over 600,000 ingredients and products. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE TraceGains
