Welcome to Monday’s Overnight Health Care. 

The former head of the FDA says THC vaping should be banned, many Americans know someone who suffers from substance abuse, and abortion rights groups are pushing Democratic debate moderators to talk more about their issue.

We’ll start with vaping…

 

Former top Trump health official says THC vaping should be banned

Some pointed words Monday from former FDA chief Scott Gottlieb, who has not shied away from commenting on major issues since he stepped down from the agency last spring. 

“Hardware marketed explicitly for vaping THC oils helped popularize consumption through vaping. This vaping has dangerous consequences and should be prohibited,” Gottlieb said on Twitter.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said a lung disease tied to vaping has sickened almost 1,300 people, with at least 26 deaths, as of Oct. 11. Public health officials said the majority of those people reported vaping THC products, “particularly those obtained off the street or from other informal sources.”

Both the CDC and FDA have warned people not to use vaping products that contain THC, but there is no outright ban, as officials have not conclusively linked the disease directly to THC. 

New rules for marijuana: Gottlieb has also called for a new approach to regulating marijuana, noting in a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed that a blanket ban on marijuana “is no longer politically practicable.”

The conflict between states and the federal government over marijuana legalization has allowed THC products to largely fall into a regulatory grey zone, and there’s no standardized way to make sure the marijuana vaping products being sold legally in states (but illegally according to the federal government) are safe. 

More on Gottlieb’s comments here.

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Abortion rights groups demand debate moderators ask about abortion

Planned Parenthood and other abortion rights groups say the topic of abortion has largely been ignored at the Democratic presidential debates. 

As such, they’re asking CNN’s debate moderators to ask abortion questions at Tuesday’s debate.  

“Right now, we have a president and vice president who have spent years trying to cut off access to health care,” Planned Parenthood Acting President Alexis McGill Johnson wrote in an email to supporters Monday. 

“We have a Supreme Court majority that is primed to gut abortion rights. And we have state lawmakers who are hell-bent on banning abortion and shutting down reproductive health centers,” she continued. “But if you watched the last two Democratic presidential debates, you wouldn’t know a thing about any of that.” 

Abortion was a topic of discussion during the first round of debates in June after several state legislatures passed bans on the procedure. 

But the issue has largely gone ignored in the following debates, despite polls that show voters want to hear candidates talk more about abortion and other women’s health issues.  

 

Almost half of Americans have dealt with substance abuse in family: Gallup

Nearly half of U.S. adults say that substance abuse problems have affected someone in their family, according to a new Gallup poll released Monday.

Forty-six percent of respondents said they have experienced substance abuse in their family overall, with 18 percent reporting just alcohol problems, 10 percent reporting only drug problems and 18 percent reporting problems with both, according to Gallup.

Gallup based the results on combined data from 2018 and 2019 across the firm’s annual Consumption Habits survey, which it conducts each July. The results cover whether substance abuse has ever been a problem within respondents’ families rather than whether it is currently.

Family problems with drinking hover at or near 35 percent across all adult age groups, according to the survey. More adults under 55 — 31 percent — said there has never been a problem with drug abuse in their families, compared to 24 percent of adults 55 and older who said the same.

The poll also found women are slightly more likely than men to report drug problems within their families, and that adults without a college degree are more likely, at 39 percent, to report family drinking problems than those with a degree, at 32 percent.

Read more here.  

 

 

What we’re reading

Democrats push Elizabeth WarrenElizabeth Ann WarrenSupport drops for Medicare for All but increases for public option Hillicon Valley: Warren takes on Facebook over political ads | Zuckerberg defends meetings with conservatives | Civil liberties groups sound alarm over online extremism bill Feehery: Trump may be down, but he’s not out yet MORE for plan to pay for Medicare for All (Wall Street Journal)

E-cigarettes went unchecked in 10 years of FDA inaction (New York Times)

Sanders heads into debate with something to prove: his health (Huffpost)

An updated guide to the changing science of flu shots (Stat)

Patients eligible for charity care instead get big bills (Kaiser Health News)  

 

State by state

The Medicaid experiment in Arkansas: thousands lost coverage, few gained jobs (Wall Street Journal)

How Newsom’s bill-signing marathon affects your health care (California Healthline)

Medicaid in NC is changing — but not how some people want (News & Observer)

Former Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Scott Gottlieb on Monday called for banning THC-based vaping products, as lung injuries tied to vaping have sickened more than a thousand people in the U.S.

“Hardware marketed explicitly for vaping THC oils helped popularize consumption through vaping. This vaping has dangerous consequences and should be prohibited,” Gottlieb, who stepped down in April, said on Twitter.

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Click Here: kenzo online españaThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said a lung disease tied to vaping has sickened almost 1,300 people, with at least 26 deaths, as of Oct. 11. Public health officials said the majority of those people reported vaping THC products, “particularly those obtained off the street or from other informal sources.”

As a result, both the CDC and FDA have warned people not to use vaping products that contain THC.

Public health officials have not conclusively linked the vaping disease to THC, and have specified the data is unclear on whether the cause is THC itself or if it’s a substance associated with pre-filled THC cartridges, like a cutting agent.

Gottlieb has also called for a new approach to regulating marijuana, noting in a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed that a blanket ban on marijuana “is no longer politically practicable.”

The conflict between states and the federal government over marijuana legalization has allowed THC products to largely fall into a regulatory grey zone. Eleven states and the District of Columbia have legalized the recreational use of marijuana in small amounts for adults, while 33 states and D.C. allow for the use of medical marijuana.

The federal government has been reluctant to enforce oversight on states that have legalized marijuana, but has also made it difficult for researchers to examine any legitimate medical use.

Marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, and is classified as a Schedule 1 drug. 

Researchers have called on the government to change that, and lift restrictions to allow further study.

Turkey advanced its assault in northeastern Syria on Tuesday after President TrumpDonald John TrumpBusiness school deans call for lifting country-specific visa caps Bolton told ex-Trump aide to call White House lawyers about Ukraine pressure campaign: report Federal prosecutors in New York examining Giuliani business dealings with Ukraine: report MORE announced sanctions over its military campaign.

Syrian fighters backed by Ankara said they would continue their advance toward the city of Manbij, a key flashpoint west of the Euphrates River, according to Reuters. A Reuters cameraman also reported heavy bombing of the Syrian border town of Ras al Ain, where a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces, a group largely made up of Kurdish fighters, reported an ongoing battle was taking place.

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Ankara is currently waging an offensive against Kurdish forces in northeastern Syria that it alleges are tied to an anti-Turkish insurgency. Its operation, which is targeting groups that allied with the U.S. in the fight against ISIS, has sparked bipartisan condemnation in Washington.

Trump said in a statement Monday he is slapping sanctions on government officials in Ankara and “any persons contributing to Turkey’s destabilizing actions in northeast Syria.” The sanctions targeted the Turkish Ministry of National Defense and Ministry of Energy and National Resources, as well as the leaders of those two agencies and the head of the Ministry of the Interior. 

The sanctions include an increase on steel tariffs from 25 percent to 50 percent and a halt in trade negotiations with Turkey.

“Turkey’s military offensive is endangering civilians and threatening peace, security, and stability in the region,” said Trump. “I have been perfectly clear with President Erdogan: Turkey’s action is precipitating a humanitarian crisis and setting conditions for possible war crimes.” 

“I am fully prepared to swiftly destroy Turkey’s economy if Turkish leaders continue down this dangerous and destructive path.”

Critics of the sanctions said they were too little too late, with Speaker Nancy PelosiNancy PelosiPelosi says Trump sanctions package on Turkey ‘falls very short’ Graham throws support behind Trump’s Turkey sanctions Feehery: Trump may be down, but he’s not out yet MORE (D-Calif.) saying the package “falls very short of reversing that humanitarian disaster.”

“President Trump gave Turkey the green light to attack our Kurdish partners, betraying the thousands of fighters who gave their lives to keep the world safe from the barbarism of ISIS,” Pelosi said in the statement. “His erratic decision-making is threatening lives, risking regional security and undermining America’s credibility in the world.” 

Trump’s decision to withdraw U.S. troops from northeastern Syria, which removed the chief deterrent to Turkey’s operation, drew bipartisan ire on Capitol Hill, with many saying it paved the way for the offensive. The Pentagon on Monday announced the official withdrawal of U.S. forces from northeastern Syria. 

“Due to Turkey’s irresponsible actions, the risk to U.S. forces in northeast Syria has reached an unacceptable level. We are also at risk of being engulfed in a broader conflict,” Defense Secretary Mark EsperMark EsperFury over Trump Syria decision grows Overnight Defense — Presented by Boeing — Trump to slap sanctions on Turkey for Syria offensive | Trump calls on Turkey to broker ceasefire | Pelosi, Graham seek deal on sanctions | Ex-Trump aide testifies in impeachment probe Pentagon announces official withdrawal of US troops from Syria MORE said in a statement, adding that “a small footprint” of U.S. forces will remain at the al-Tanf garrison in southern Syria “to continue to disrupt remnants of ISIS.”

Sen. Lindsey GrahamLindsey Olin GrahamGraham throws support behind Trump’s Turkey sanctions Hillicon Valley: Warren takes on Facebook over political ads | Zuckerberg defends meetings with conservatives | Civil liberties groups sound alarm over online extremism bill Fury over Trump Syria decision grows MORE (R-S.C.) said on Monday night that he backs President TrumpDonald John TrumpBusiness school deans call for lifting country-specific visa caps Bolton told ex-Trump aide to call White House lawyers about Ukraine pressure campaign: report Federal prosecutors in New York examining Giuliani business dealings with Ukraine: report MORE‘s decision to slap new financial penalties on Turkey and that the administration deserved “reasonable time and space” to implement its strategy in Syria.

 

“I strongly support President Trump’s decision to initiate executive order sanctions against Turkish officials and economy for Turkey’s invasion of northeastern Syria. Turkey is attacking the Kurdish forces that supported us the most in destroying the ISIS Caliphate,” Graham, one of the most vociferous opponents of Trump’s recent move to pull U.S. troops out of northern Syria, said in a statement. 

 

Graham’s comments came after he spoke with Trump and took part in calls with the president, administration officials and “key leaders in this conflict.” 

 

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Graham added that his colleagues should publicly push back against Turkey’s invasion of northern Syria and back Trump’s sanctions plan, which the president announced earlier Monday. 

 

“The President’s team has a plan and I intend to support them as strongly as possible, and to give them reasonable time and space to achieve our mutual goals,” he continued. 

 

Graham is a close Trump ally on Capitol Hill, but the two have been publicly at odds over the president’s decision to yank U.S. troops from northern Syria ahead of a planned Turkish military operation. 

 

Graham helped lead last week’s fierce wave of backlash from GOP lawmakers, previously calling Trump’s move a “disaster in the making” and “the biggest blunder of his presidency.”

 

Graham’s statement is a marked shift from his comments earlier Monday after he spoke with House Speaker Nancy PelosiNancy PelosiPelosi says Trump sanctions package on Turkey ‘falls very short’ Graham throws support behind Trump’s Turkey sanctions Feehery: Trump may be down, but he’s not out yet MORE (D-Calif.), with whom he discussed the need for Congress to pass its own sanctions. 

 

“I will be working across party lines in a bicameral fashion to draft sanctions and move quickly, appreciating President Trump’s willingness to work with the Congress. The Speaker indicated to me that time was of the essence,” Graham tweeted after the phone call.

 

He made no mention in his statement after speaking with Trump about the need for Congress to pass its own legislation.

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In addition to a sanctions package, lawmakers are expected to offer a joint resolution formally opposing Trump’s decision to pull U.S. troops out of Syria and urging him to reverse course. 

 

Graham had indicated last week that he would be working on that resolution and that he hoped it would “receive strong bipartisan support.”

 

In addition to sanctions, Vice President Pence told reporters on Monday that he would soon be leading a U.S. delegation to Turkey. 

 

Graham, in his statement on Monday evening, appeared to endorse that effort. 

“In the meantime, I think it would be wise to allow the Administration an opportunity to meet with Turkey and other interested parties to see if we can find an end to the bloodshed with a sustainable solution regarding ISIS and other U.S. national security concerns,” he said.

Senate Democrats quickly signaled on Monday that President TrumpDonald John TrumpBusiness school deans call for lifting country-specific visa caps Bolton told ex-Trump aide to call White House lawyers about Ukraine pressure campaign: report Federal prosecutors in New York examining Giuliani business dealings with Ukraine: report MORE‘s decision to slap new financial penalties on Turkey won’t be enough to quash backlash over the administration’s Syria policy. 

Senate Minority Leader Charles SchumerCharles (Chuck) Ellis SchumerTrump defends ‘crime buster’ Giuliani amid reported probe Louisiana voters head to the polls in governor’s race as Trump urges GOP support Trump urges Louisiana voters to back GOP in governor’s race then ‘enjoy the game’ MORE (D-N.Y.) and Sens. Jack ReedJohn (Jack) Francis ReedFury over Trump Syria decision grows Democrats warn Trump’s Turkey sanctions don’t go far enough Democrats urge Rick Perry not to roll back lightbulb efficiency rules MORE (D-R.I.) and Bob MenendezRobert (Bob) MenendezRand Paul calls for probe of Democrats over Ukraine letter Senators ask Treasury to probe Brazilian meatpacker with major US footprint Top Foreign Relations Democrat calls on Pompeo to recuse himself from Ukraine matters MORE (D-N.J.) — the top Democrats on the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations committees, respectively — urged Republicans to support a resolution asking Trump to reverse his decision to withdraw U.S. troops from northern Syria. 

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“Strong sanctions, while good and justified, will not be sufficient in undoing that damage nor will it stop the consequences stemming from the ISIS jailbreak,” they said in an apparent reference to reports that some ISIS fighters had broken out of prisons in the wake of Turkey’s military invasion.  

“The first step when Congress returns to session this week is for Republicans to join with us in passing a resolution making clear that both parties are demanding the president’s decision be reversed,” they added. 

After days of mulling new sanctions against Ankara, Trump announced new financial penalties and travel restrictions that would target Turkish officials involved in human rights abuses or “threatening the peace, security or stability in Syria.”

But Democrats quickly signaled that the action won’t be enough to stop the push on Capitol Hill for additional legislation. In addition to a sanctions package, lawmakers are also discussing a resolution that would formally oppose Trump’s decision to pull back U.S. troops and call on him to reverse course. 

“President Trump should use this moment to step up, do the right thing, and correct course. He can listen to his national security and military advisors, and to the chorus of bipartisan voices in Congress and across the world who made it clear that this was a grave mistake worth reversing,” Schumer, Reed and Menendez added.  

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) added in a tweet that “sanctions are a necessary step—as long as they are stringent & swift—but more must be done to help repair the broken promises & shattered lives caused by Trump’s reckless & senseless betrayals.” 

House Speaker Nancy PelosiNancy PelosiPelosi says Trump sanctions package on Turkey ‘falls very short’ Graham throws support behind Trump’s Turkey sanctions Feehery: Trump may be down, but he’s not out yet MORE (D-Calif.) and Sen. Lindsey GrahamLindsey Olin GrahamGraham throws support behind Trump’s Turkey sanctions Hillicon Valley: Warren takes on Facebook over political ads | Zuckerberg defends meetings with conservatives | Civil liberties groups sound alarm over online extremism bill Fury over Trump Syria decision grows MORE (R-S.C.), a close Trump ally who has been critical of his Syria decision, spoke before the president’s announcement about the need for a sanctions package and the separate resolution opposing the administration’s strategy.  

Asked if Trump’s statement scuttled the need for additional legislation, a Democratic leadership aide added that “we have no details beyond a vague statement. Regardless, there is significant bipartisan interest in advancing a legislative sanctions package.”  

Sen. Rand PaulRandal (Rand) Howard PaulRand Paul calls for probe of Democrats over Ukraine letter Sunday Show Preview: Trump’s allies and administration defend decision on Syria Ana Navarro clashes with Rand Paul in fiery exchange: ‘Don’t mansplain!’ MORE (R-Ky.) on Sunday called for an investigation into the Democratic senators who sent a letter in 2018 to the prosecutor general of Ukraine requesting information on investigations into former Trump campaign manager Paul ManafortPaul John ManafortRand Paul calls for probe of Democrats over Ukraine letter He who must not be named: How Hunter Biden became a conversation-stopper Schiff should consider using RICO framework to organize impeachment MORE. 

Paul dodged questions from Chuck ToddCharles (Chuck) David ToddRand Paul calls for probe of Democrats over Ukraine letter White House officials stand by Syria withdrawal, sanctions delay amid bipartisan pushback Sunday shows — Officials rush to Trump’s defense on Syria, sanctions MORE on NBC’s “Meet the Press” on whether President TrumpDonald John TrumpWHCA calls on Trump to denounce video depicting him shooting media outlets Video of fake Trump shooting members of media shown at his Miami resort: report Trump hits Fox News’s Chris Wallace over Ukraine coverage MORE‘s personal attorney Rudy GiulianiRudy GiulianiRand Paul calls for probe of Democrats over Ukraine letter Sunday shows — Officials rush to Trump’s defense on Syria, sanctions Cruz: ‘Of course’ it’s not appropriate to ask China to investigate Bidens MORE‘s interactions with foreign governments to get information on former Vice President Joe BidenJoe BidenTrump hits Fox News’s Chris Wallace over Ukraine coverage Schiff: Whistleblower testimony might not be necessary Trump warns Democrats will lose House seats over impeachment MORE bothered him. 

“If anything’s consistent here, both parties have tried to involve themselves in Ukraine,” Paul said.

“If you’re going to condemn Trump, you need to condemn the Democratic senators,” he added. “It shouldn’t just be one-sided.”

The 2018 letter Paul referred to was sent by three Democratic senators — Sens. Robert MenendezRobert (Bob) MenendezRand Paul calls for probe of Democrats over Ukraine letter Senators ask Treasury to probe Brazilian meatpacker with major US footprint Top Foreign Relations Democrat calls on Pompeo to recuse himself from Ukraine matters MORE (N.J.), Dick Durbin (Ill.) and Patrick LeahyPatrick Joseph LeahyRand Paul calls for probe of Democrats over Ukraine letter Senator questions agencies on suicide prevention, response after Epstein’s death in federal custody During impeachment storm, senators cross aisle to lessen mass incarceration MORE (Vt.) — to Ukraine’s prosecutor general, asking for the country’s assistance in the Mueller investigation. The letter was sent after a New York Times report found the investigations into Manafort in Ukraine had stalled. 

Paul asserts the Democratic senators threatened to withhold aid from Ukraine in the letter if the country did not cooperate in the Mueller investigation.

The Kentucky senator said the Democratic senators’ sending of the letter needs to be examined.

“That’s a threat and that’s the same kind of stuff they’re accusing Trump of,” he said.

Speaker Nancy PelosiNancy PelosiBiden on impeachment: ‘I’m the only reason’ it’s happening Democrats to offer resolution demanding Trump reverse Syria decision Rand Paul calls for probe of Democrats over Ukraine letter MORE (D-Calif.) launched an impeachment inquiry against Trump after a whistleblower report surfaced concerns about a July call between Trump and the Ukrainian president. In the call, Trump asked President Volodymyr Zelensky to “look into” former Vice President Joe Biden and his son Hunter days after withholding military aid from the country.

During Biden’s vice presidency, he pushed for the dismissal of a Ukrainian prosecutor, who was looking into a Ukrainian gas company, of which Hunter Biden sat on the board. 

Welcome to Hillicon Valley, The Hill’s newsletter detailing all you need to know about the tech and cyber news from Capitol Hill to Silicon Valley. If you don’t already, be sure to sign up for our newsletter with this LINK.

Welcome! Follow the cyber team, Maggie Miller (@magmill95), and the tech team, Emily Birnbaum (@birnbaum_e) and Chris Mills Rodrigo (@chrisismills)

 

BIG HEARING NEXT WEEK: The co-founder and CEO of Reddit and a top policy official with Google are slated to testify next week before a key House panel about the tech industry’s legal protections, the committee announced Friday.

The public hearing scheduled for Wednesday marks the latest sign that the House Energy and Commerce Committee is seriously looking at the possibility of tweaking or even partially pulling back the industry’s liability shield. 

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Reddit chief Steve Huffman will testify at the hearing alongside Katherine Oyama, Google’s global head of intellectual property policy, as well as leading experts on the law that protects tech — including Danielle Citron, a law professor at Boston University School of Law, and Corynne McSherry, the legal director of top privacy group the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

Top Democrats on the House Energy and Commerce Committee announced their intention to hold the hearing last month. 

“The Internet has opened America’s homes to a wealth of social, economic and educational opportunities,” Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.) said in a joint statement with the heads of the committee’s panels on technology and consumer protection. “Sadly, bad actors, both foreign and domestic, have abused this access to peddle extremism, disinformation and hatred that divides our nation.”

Why Section 230 matters: At issue is a provision called Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act, which protects internet platforms from being sued over content posted by users and how it chooses to moderate those user-generated posts.

Increasingly, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle in both chambers have hammered Section 230 as a “sweetheart deal” that protects Big Tech from dealing with issues on their platforms including hate speech, terrorist content and disinformation. 

While several federal lawmakers have floated changes to Section 230 over the past several months, there are still no bipartisan or bicameral proposals on the table. 

E&C’s role: The Energy and Commerce Committee has primary jurisdiction over Section 230, and over the past several months, top members of the panel have expressed interest in various proposals to hold platforms “accountable” for their content moderation decisions.  

“This hearing will explore whether online companies are appropriately using the tools they have — including protections Congress granted in Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act — to foster a healthier Internet,” Pallone said in the statement with Reps. Mike DoyleMichael (Mike) F. DoyleHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference Reddit, Google to testify before House panel on tech’s legal protections Consequential GOP class of 1994 all but disappears MORE (D-Pa.) and Jan SchakowskyJanice (Jan) Danoff SchakowskyHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference Congress must get pharma out of NAFTA 2.0 Reddit, Google to testify before House panel on tech’s legal protections MORE (D-Ill.).

Read more here.

 

MAKES ME TWITCHY: President TrumpDonald John TrumpFederal prosecutors investigating Giuliani: report House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman and top Republican to introduce sanctions bill against Turkey Trump lashes out at 2020 Dems, impeachment inquiry MORE recently joined the video streaming platform Twitch, live-streaming his Thursday night rally on the Amazon-owned site. 

Presidential contenders and politicians have been using the platform over the past several months, live-streaming Q&As and informal conversations to audiences of tens of thousands.  

Trump’s Twitch account had nearly 47,000 followers as of Friday morning. The page indicates that his Minneapolis rally had more than 40,000 views as of Friday, and that his campaign plans to broadcast his rally next week in Dallas. 

Trump also plans to hold a rally in Louisiana later on Friday.

The president is known for his prolific Twitter presence, but his aides have signaled in recent months that the president is looking to gain a foothold on other platforms as well. 

The Trump campaign advertised heavily in social media platforms such as Facebook in 2016, a strategy it has continued into the 2020 race.

The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to The Hill’s request for comment on joining Twitch.

Trump is not the first presidential candidate to join the platform, which is popular among the gamer community but has niches for many interests, including politics. Democratic candidates Sen. Bernie SandersBernie SandersTrump lashes out at 2020 Dems, impeachment inquiry Trump: ‘It looks like Bernie lost his chance’ at Democratic nomination O’Rourke campaign says path to victory hinges on top 5 finishes in Iowa, Nevada MORE (I-Vt.) and entrepreneur Andrew YangAndrew YangO’Rourke campaign says path to victory hinges on top 5 finishes in Iowa, Nevada Hillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference O’Rourke raises .5 million in third quarter MORE are also on Twitch. 

Trump joined the platform mere days after the Amazon company came under scrutiny over a shooting near a German synagogue, which was live-streamed and viewed by thousands of people on Twitch. 

Only five people tuned into the livestream, but a recorded version of the disturbing footage was viewed by more than 2,000 people before it was removed.

The footage has since circulated on Telegram, a partially encrypted app that is known to be favored by white extremists.

The incident made Amazon the latest tech giant to grapple with violent footage circulating on one of its platforms. Facebook dealt with the issue earlier this year when a mass shooter filmed himself attacking worshippers at a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, an incident that left more than 50 dead and dozens injured.

Read more on Trump’s move here.

 

SHIELD ME FROM THIS: The House will vote on legislation later this month aimed at limiting foreign interference in U.S. elections after a bipartisan report from the Senate Intelligence Committee this week called on Congress to take action on the issue.

The move by House Democrats is likely to place additional pressure on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnellAddison (Mitch) Mitchell McConnellHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference CBO: Pelosi bill to lower drug prices saves Medicare 5 billion Iowa Democrat tops Ernst in third-quarter fundraising for Senate race MORE (R-Ky.), whom Democrats have targeted on election security. 

House Majority Leader Steny HoyerSteny Hamilton HoyerHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference Overnight Health Care — Presented by Coalition Against Surprise Medical Billing — Judge blocks Trump ‘public charge’ rule | Appeals court skeptical of Trump arguments for Medicaid work requirements | CDC offers guidance for treating vaping-related cases House to vote this month on legislation to combat foreign interference in elections MORE (D-Md.) announced the House will take up legislation that would require campaigns to report “illicit offers” of election assistance from foreign governments or individuals to both the FBI and the Federal Election Commission (FEC). 

The legislation, known as the SHIELD Act and just introduced this week, also includes language designed to ensure that political advertisements on social media are subject to the same sponsor disclosure rules as ads on television and radio broadcasts. 

The vote will come in the midst of a presidential impeachment inquiry that focuses on whether President Trump asked Ukraine to interfere in aspects of the upcoming 2020 U.S. presidential election. 

Hoyer praised work done by House Democrats in regards to the impeachment investigation in a letter announcing the move, writing that “the President betrayed our nation’s trust, undermined our national security, and abused his power by encouraging foreign interference in our elections, and the American people deserve answers.”

The House Administration Committee is scheduled to mark up the SHIELD Act next week prior to the full House taking it up, with committee Chairwoman Zoe LofgrenZoe Ellen LofgrenHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference House to vote this month on legislation to combat foreign interference in elections Hillicon Valley: Zuckerberg to testify on Libra | Extremists find home on Telegram app | Warren blasts Facebook for not removing anti-Biden ad | California outlaws facial recognition in police body cameras | China rips US tech sanctions MORE (D-Calif.) among the bill’s key sponsors. 

Read more on the legislation here.

 

MEDIA LITERACY BOOSTER SHOT: A group of House Democrats on Friday introduced legislation intended to increase media literacy among Americans in order to combat social media disinformation campaigns.

The Digital Citizen and Media Literacy Act would establish a $20 million grant program at the Department of Education to help fund K-12 media literacy curricula. The funds would be available to local education agencies to create programs on media literacy and to state agencies to create “advisory councils” to establish state-wide media literacy guidelines. 

The bill was introduced days after the Senate Intelligence Committee released its bipartisan report on Russian social media disinformation efforts in the run-up to the 2016 elections. 

The committee found that the Kremlin directed the Russian Internet Research Agency to spread disinformation with the goal of helping now-President Trump over former Secretary of State Hillary ClintonHillary Diane Rodham ClintonHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference Saagar Enjeti rips NYT report over attacks on Warren’s authenticity House Dems introduce bill to fight social media disinformation MORE, echoing findings detailed by former special counsel Robert MuellerRobert (Bob) Swan MuellerFox News legal analyst says Trump call with Ukraine leader could be ‘more serious’ than what Mueller ‘dragged up’ Lewandowski says Mueller report was ‘very clear’ in proving ‘there was no obstruction,’ despite having ‘never’ read it Fox’s Cavuto roasts Trump over criticism of network MORE. 

The committee also included a set of recommendations for Congress, the Trump administration and social media companies in order to prevent future foreign disinformation efforts, including the idea of creating a “public initiative” aimed at promoting “critical thinking skills” to help Americans identify disinformation online. 

Read more here. 

 

SPACEX, NASA MAKE AMENDS: NASA Director Jim BridenstineJames (Jim) Frederick BridenstineHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference NASA targeting early 2020 for first manned SpaceX mission NASA’s Bridenstine gives SpaceX a reality check MORE says that the agency could begin using SpaceX equipment for manned orbital missions as early as next year if the company does not run into unexpected hurdles with the development of its crew capsule.

Bridenstine told reporters during a visit to Elon MuskElon Reeve MuskHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference NASA targeting early 2020 for first manned SpaceX mission Hillicon Valley: Senate Intel report urges action to prevent 2020 Russian meddling | Republicans warn Microsoft of ‘urgent’ Huawei threat | Court rules FBI surveillance violated Americans’ rights MORE‘s SpaceX headquarters in California that if “everything goes according to plan,” the agency will begin manned missions using SpaceX’s capsule in the first quarter of 2020.

“If everything goes according to plan, it would be the first quarter of next year,” he said, according to Reuters, while adding that the agency is “not going to take any undue risk” by sticking to an unrealistic timeline.

Musk also addressed reporters at the news conference, explaining that despite difficulties in developing the crew capsule’s parachute, the company planned to finish testing by the end of the year.

“Testing will be complete and hardware at the Cape [Canaveral] by the end of December,” he said, according to Reuters.

NASA’s use of private contractors such as SpaceX for future space flights comes as the agency currently spends millions every year to use Russian technology necessary for reaching the International Space Station.

Read more here.

 

A LIGHTER CLICK: Footage of people who must have a death wish. 

 

AN OP-ED TO CHEW ON: Automation won’t destroy trade; it might even boost it 

 

NOTABLE LINKS FROM AROUND THE WEB:  

Study links Russian tweets to release of hacked emails. (Associated Press) 

Mississippi audit finds ‘disregard’ for cybersecurity across the state. (StateScoop)

Tech companies didn’t plan for Chinese censorship. (Vice)

Congressional Republicans appear poised to hand President TrumpDonald John TrumpWHCA calls on Trump to denounce video depicting him shooting media outlets Video of fake Trump shooting members of media shown at his Miami resort: report Trump hits Fox News’s Chris Wallace over Ukraine coverage MORE a stinging rebuke of his Turkey and Syria policy when lawmakers return to Washington this week.

GOP lawmakers, furious over Trump’s decision to withdraw troops to make way for a Turkish offensive against Kurdish allies, are preparing legislation that would force the administration to impose sanctions on Turkey.

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Treasury Secretary Steven MnuchinSteven Terner MnuchinFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria White House officials stand by Syria withdrawal, sanctions delay amid bipartisan pushback Trump: Treasury ‘ready to go’ on sanctions against Turkey: ‘Stay tuned’ MORE announced Friday that Trump would sign an executive order giving the Treasury Department “very significant” new sanctions authorities against Turkey, but it’s unclear whether the move will be enough to placate Republicans on Capitol Hill. 

Sen. Marco RubioMarco Antonio RubioFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Five ways Trump’s Syria decision spells trouble Rubio criticizes Warren response on same-sex marriage opposition as condescending MORE (R-Fla.) called the announcement “welcome news,” while Sen. Lindsey GrahamLindsey Olin GrahamFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Democrats to offer resolution demanding Trump reverse Syria decision Army officer calls Syria pullback ‘a stain on the American conscience’ MORE (R-S.C.) said the administration needs to “up their game.”

“We are witnessing ethnic cleansing in Syria by Turkey, the destruction of a reliable ally in the Kurds, and the reemergence of ISIS,” Graham tweeted after Friday’s announcement.

“The conditional sanctions announced today will be viewed by Turkey as a tepid response and will embolden Erdogan even more,” he added, referring to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. “The Turkish government needs to know Congress will take a different path – passing crippling sanctions in a bipartisan fashion.”

Graham, alongside Sen. Chris Van HollenChristopher (Chris) Van HollenFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Democrats to offer resolution demanding Trump reverse Syria decision White House officials stand by Syria withdrawal, sanctions delay amid bipartisan pushback MORE (D-Md.), is expected to introduce harsh sanctions against Turkey this week as a punishment for its incursion into northern Syria against the Kurds, longtime allies of the U.S. 

It’s not yet known whether their bill will get a floor vote; a spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnellAddison (Mitch) Mitchell McConnellFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Republicans wrestle with impeachment strategy Mattis warns ‘ISIS will resurge’ without U.S. pressure on Syria MORE (R-Ky.) said Friday he had no “updates or guidance on this right now.”

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But more and more Republicans are coming out in support of sanctions against Turkey, a NATO ally, as it bombs Kurds who were instrumental in the U.S.-led fight against ISIS, raising the possibility that Congress will pass veto-proof legislation rebuffing Trump’s foreign policy.

“I want to co-sponsor that resolution,” Sen. Martha McSallyMartha Elizabeth McSallyFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Republicans wrestle with impeachment strategy Overnight Health Care — Presented by Coalition Against Surprise Medical Billing — Planned Parenthood charges into 2020 | PhRMA CEO warns against Pelosi drug pricing bill | Medicaid work requirements costing states millions MORE (R-Ariz.), who is up for reelection next year, said in an interview with Fox News. “We cannot have a supposed ally who is continuing to go in the wrong direction under Erdoğan’s leadership, invading another country.” 

“We got to do our part in the Senate in order to hold Turkey accountable,” she added.

As lawmakers craft bills, Defense Secretary Mark EsperMark EsperFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Democrats to offer resolution demanding Trump reverse Syria decision Army officer calls Syria pullback ‘a stain on the American conscience’ MORE and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley are scheduled to brief the Senate Armed Services Committee on Syria and “and the wider region” behind closed doors Thursday, according to a committee notice. 

Republicans are fuming after Trump decided to withdraw U.S. troops from northeast Syria, paving the way for Erdogan to move forward with a long-threatened offensive against Syrian Kurdish forces.

Ankara considers the Syrian Kurds terrorists connected with a Turkish Kurdish insurgency. But the United States partnered with the Kurds in the fight against ISIS and relied on them to do the most dangerous ground fighting.

Lawmakers in both parties have called Trump’s decision a betrayal of the Kurds and one that will send a chilling signal to any country or group that might want to ally itself with the United States in the future. They have also expressed concern that ISIS will take advantage of the chaos to escape from Kurdish-guarded prisons and regroup.

While the condemnation has been bipartisan, the Republican criticism is particularly notable since it comes at a time when the GOP is vociferously defending Trump from House Democrats’ impeachment inquiry. 

But Syria has riled up Republicans like no other issue during Trump’s presidency. When the president said in December he would withdraw all U.S. troops from Syria, there was an outcry from Republicans, and the Senate passed an amendment warning against the withdrawal in a veto-proof 68-23 vote. Trump eventually walked back his plan.

Amid the latest backlash, Trump has sought to distance himself from Turkey’s actions. On Thursday, he raised the possibility of playing of mediator between Turkey and the Kurds, despite the fact that Trump’s retreat and Turkey’s incursion unraveled the previous U.S.-mediated plan for a safe zone. 

“We can mediate. I hope we can mediate,” Trump told reporters at the White House.

His administration has also sought to change the narrative. A senior State Department official told reporters on a background call this past week that “we gave them a very clear red light,” while Esper told reporters Friday that “nobody greenlighted this operation” and insisted that “we have not abandoned the Kurds.”

While Trump approved expanding Treasury Department’s authority to slap sanctions on Turkey, he declined later on the day Friday to specify what would prompt him to follow through with the sanctions threat. 

Congress may not give him any choice.

Syria-related legislation was not included in guidance from McConnell’s office about what will be taken up on the Senate floor this week. But Van Hollen has said he and Graham plan to introduce their bill as soon as Congress returns from recess and will push for an “immediate vote.”

The Graham-Van Hollen bill would sanction any U.S. assets of high-ranking Turkish officials, including Erdoğan, until the Trump administration certifies to Congress that Turkey has withdrawn from Syria. It would also place visa restrictions on Turkish leaders, sanction any foreign person supporting the Turkish military and ensure the previously congressionally mandated sanctions for Turkey’s purchase of a Russian missile defense system go into effect.

During an interview this past week with home-state radio station KBOI, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim RischJames (Jim) Elroy RischFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria McConnell warns NBA to respect free speech on China Issa’s Senate confirmation hearing delayed over concerns about background check MORE (R-Idaho) said there is “a growing feeling in the Congress that we ought to” sanction Turkey.

“The most important question I think on the table right now is … do we take a move against Turkey based on economic sanctions,” Risch said.

Risch has not said whether he will support the Graham-Van Hollen bill, and a spokesman told The Hill on Friday he did not have an update on Risch’s stance.

Sen. Susan CollinsSusan Margaret CollinsFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria McConnell tightlipped as impeachment furor grows Congress set for showdown with Trump over Kurds MORE (R-Maine), who is up for reelection next year, told reporters in Maine she supports sanctions against Turkey.

“I think sanctions are a good idea,” she said. “I worry whether they will be effective at this point in stopping the Turks from the slaughter of our allies. I vehemently disagree with the president’s decision.” 

Rep. Liz CheneyElizabeth (Liz) Lynn CheneyFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Democrats to offer resolution demanding Trump reverse Syria decision Five ways Trump’s Syria decision spells trouble MORE (Wyo.), the No. 3 House Republican, has unveiled a companion measure to Graham-Van Hollen in the House. Her bill is co-sponsored by nearly 30 Republicans, including House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthyKevin Owen McCarthyFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Five ways Trump’s Syria decision spells trouble The Hill’s Morning Report — Arrest of Giuliani associates triggers many questions MORE (Calif.), Minority Whip Steve ScaliseStephen (Steve) Joseph ScaliseFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Five ways Trump’s Syria decision spells trouble Cheney slated to introduce bill to place sanctions on Turkey MORE (La.) and House Armed Services Committee ranking member Mac ThornberryWilliam (Mac) McClellan ThornberryFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Five ways Trump’s Syria decision spells trouble Cheney slated to introduce bill to place sanctions on Turkey MORE (R-Texas).

“President Erdogan and his regime must face serious consequences for mercilessly attacking our Kurdish allies in northern Syria, who incurred thousands of casualties in the fight against ISIS and helped us protect the homeland,” Cheney, who is weighing a 2020 Senate bid, said in a statement announcing her bill. “Turkey wants to be treated like an ally, it must begin behaving like one. They must be sanctioned for their attacks on our Kurdish allies.”

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Eliot EngelEliot Lance EngelFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Democrats to offer resolution demanding Trump reverse Syria decision Sunday shows — Officials rush to Trump’s defense on Syria, sanctions MORE (D-N.Y.) and the panel’s top Republican, Rep. Michael McCaulMichael Thomas McCaulFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria Democrats to offer resolution demanding Trump reverse Syria decision House Foreign Affairs leaders to introduce sanctions bill against Turkey MORE (Texas), also released a sanctions bill Friday that targets Turkish leaders involved in the Syria operation, as well as banks involved in Turkey’s defense sector. The measure would also prohibit arms sales to Turkey and sanction Ankara over its purchase of the Russian missile defense system.

The sanctions would apply until Trump certifies to Congress that Turkey has halted its Syria offensive.

A separate bipartisan resolution released by Engel on Friday includes language saying the Kurds “fought courageously” with the United States against ISIS and that a withdrawal from northeast Syria is “beneficial to adversaries” like Syria, Iran and Russia.

 

The four-page resolution says the House “opposes the decision to end certain United States efforts” to prevent Turkey’s offensive. It also calls on Erdogan to “immediately cease” the operation, says the United States should continue supporting the Kurds and calls for the U.S. to “work to ensure that the Turkish military acts with restraint.”

 

In a letter to House Democrats on Friday, Hoyer said it is possible the chamber will take up Syria legislation during this work period.

 

“Both parties are outraged by the president’s reckless and dangerous decision to withdraw U.S. troops from northern Syria and abandon our Kurdish allies,” Hoyer wrote. “It is shameful that this president has betrayed a reliable ally, is enabling the return of ISIS and is putting our nation and other allies, including Europe and Israel, at risk. As Turkish forces push deeper into Syria and the Kurdish death toll rises, Congress ought to respond.”

 

Jordain Carney and Scott Wong contributed.

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Treasury Secretary Steven MnuchinSteven Terner MnuchinFurious Republicans prepare to rebuke Trump on Syria White House officials stand by Syria withdrawal, sanctions delay amid bipartisan pushback Trump: Treasury ‘ready to go’ on sanctions against Turkey: ‘Stay tuned’ MORE on Sunday defended a delay in imposing sanctions on Turkey, saying the Trump administration is ready to move forward “at a moment’s notice” over Ankara’s military action in northern Syria.

“You announced Friday that you now have the authority to impose sanctions on Turkey for what we’re seeing unfold,” host John Karl said on ABC’s “This Week.”

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“Given that we’ve already seen — a hundred thousand people reportedly displaced, these ISIS prisoners out, set loose, execution of some of America’s Kurdish allies, what is the holdup? Why don’t you just impose these sanctions?” Karl asked.

“Let me just say this is a complicated, developing situation. You have a NATO ally on one hand fighting against the Kurds who were helping us with the fight against ISIS. We are in daily communications with Turkey, both at the Defense Department, the State Department, on very specific issues. We are ready to go at a moment’s notice to put on sanctions,” Mnuchin replied.

“And as I’ve said, these sanctions could be starting small, they could be maximum pressure which would destroy the Turkish economy,” he said, adding that President TrumpDonald John TrumpWHCA calls on Trump to denounce video depicting him shooting media outlets Video of fake Trump shooting members of media shown at his Miami resort: report Trump hits Fox News’s Chris Wallace over Ukraine coverage MORE is “very focused” on the issue and stressing that events are developing.

Mnuchin announced Friday that Trump would sign an executive order giving the Treasury Department “very significant” new sanctions authorities against Turkey. But it’s unclear whether the move will be enough to placate Republicans on Capitol Hill who have criticized Trumps decision to pull U.S. troops out of northern Syria ahead of a Turkish offensive against Syrian Kurds it considers terrorists but have helped the U.S. fight ISIS.

“What are you waiting for? Look at what we’ve just seen on the ground. I mean, this is a rapidly deteriorating situation,” Karl said on Sunday.

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“You are correct, it is moving quickly. We will be meeting at the [National Security Council] today, again, to monitor the situation. We will be taking in new information. And we’re ready to go at a moment’s notice to put on sanctions,” Mnuchin said.

“We have warned the Turks. I spoke to the finance minister on Friday. The State Department has also had conversations,” he added. “They know what we will do if they don’t stop these activities.”

Trump in a tweet on Sunday that he is working with lawmakers on imposing “powerful” sanctions against Turkey. 

“Treasury is ready to go, additional legislation may be sought. There is great consensus on this. Turkey has asked that it not be done,” he added. “Stay tuned!

This report was updated at 9:41 a.m.

Welcome to Friday’s Overnight Health Care. 

The Trump administration was dealt a defeat in court over its public charge rule, the CDC has released new guidance for clinicians whose patients might have lung illnesses related to vaping, and Medicaid work requirements were back in court.  

We’ll start with the public charge rule:  

 

Judge blocks Trump ‘public charge’ rule

The Trump administration was dealt a blow Friday when a federal judge in New York temporarily blocked the “public charge” rule linking immigrants’ legal status to their use of public benefits.

Judge George Daniels of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York issued a temporary nationwide injunction stopping the administration from enforcing the requirements, as well as a stay of the effective date.

The rule was scheduled to take effect Oct. 15.

In his 24-page ruling, Daniels, a Clinton appointee, said the Trump administration likely exceeded its authority. 

“Defendants do not articulate why they are changing the public charge definition, why this new definition is needed now, or why the definition set forth in the rule — which has absolutely no support in the history of U.S. immigration law — is reasonable,” he wrote. “The rule is simply a new agency policy of exclusion in search of a justification.”

While advocates cheered the ruling, the stay is only temporary until the court can rule on the merits of the rule. The Justice Department is also likely to appeal.

“An objective judiciary will see that this rule lies squarely within long-held existing law,” Acting Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Ken Cuccinelli said in a statement. “The public charge regulation defines this law to ensure those seeking to come or stay in the U.S. can successfully support themselves financially and will not rely on public benefits as they seek opportunity here.”

Flashback: The public charge rule has been a priority of immigration hard-liners in the administration, especially White House adviser Stephen MillerStephen MillerTrump says acting Homeland Security chief McAleenan will step down Overnight Health Care — Presented by Coalition Against Surprise Medical Billing — Judge blocks Trump ‘public charge’ rule | Appeals court skeptical of Trump arguments for Medicaid work requirements | CDC offers guidance for treating vaping-related cases Cracks emerge in White House strategy as witness testifies MORE. Under the rule, any immigrant who receives at least one designated public benefit– including Medicaid, food stamps, welfare or public housing vouchers — for more than 12 months within any three-year period will be considered a “public charge” and will be more likely to be denied a green card by immigration officials. The rule would also examine the likelihood of an immigrant using such benefits in the future. 

Read more here.

 

 

In other court news…

 

Appeals court skeptical of Trump arguments for Medicaid work requirements 

It was not a good day in the courts for the Trump administration. A federal appeals court on Friday sounded dubious about the Trump administration’s authority for imposing work requirements on Medicaid beneficiaries. 

The three-judge panel repeatedly pressed a Trump administration attorney on whether the Department of Health and Human Services considered how many people would lose coverage if they were subjected to Medicaid work requirements.

The administration said a previous court was wrong to block work requirements in Kentucky and Arkansas, and argued that work requirements will allow beneficiaries to transition to other forms of coverage, and will free up state funding from people that may not need it. According to administration attorney Alisa Klein, conserving a state’s “finite resources” by having people get coverage from an employer or from the ObamaCare marketplace fulfills the objectives of the Medicaid program.

Key quotes: The justices sounded skeptical.

“The other things you say may be laudable goals, but to say they outweigh the principal goal [of Medicaid] seems a bit strange,” said Judge David Sentelle, appointed by President Ronald Reagan and the only Republican on the panel.

Judge Harry Edwards, who was appointed by President Jimmy CarterJimmy CarterOvernight Health Care — Presented by Coalition Against Surprise Medical Billing — Judge blocks Trump ‘public charge’ rule | Appeals court skeptical of Trump arguments for Medicaid work requirements | CDC offers guidance for treating vaping-related cases In Syria, making America ashamed again — and weaker Garth Brooks on Jimmy Carter’s volunteer work: ‘Nobody cares about “Republican” or “Democrat” in heaven’ MORE, said Klein never addressed the central issue that Medicaid experiments must promote coverage. “There are adverse effects. People are going to lose coverage. You haven’t addressed that,” Edwards said. “You can’t point to other objectives. The principal objective [of Medicaid] is coverage.”

Read more on the arguments here.

 

CDC issues new guidance for doctors treating vaping-related illnesses

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new guidance Friday for clinicians whose patients might have lung illnesses related to vaping.

Because the illness is new, there had been no guidelines for how clinicians should treat patients suspected of having the illness.

Having official guidance from the CDC becomes more important as the U.S. enters the flu season, officials said Friday.

Several symptoms of the flu and other viral infections overlap with those associated with the vaping illness.

As such, all patients with apparent respiratory infections, like the flu, should be asked about their vaping history. 

Context: Some symptoms experienced by patients with the vaping illness include: cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, fever or weight loss. … Sounds like the flu. 

That’s why the CDC is recommending that clinicians ask all flu-presenting patients about their vaping history. 

Read more here.

 

Hoyer: ‘Possible’ House votes on drug pricing bill week of October 28

Get ready for some (possible) drug pricing action towards the end of this month. 

House Majority Leader Steny HoyerSteny Hamilton HoyerHillicon Valley: Google, Reddit to testify on tech industry protections | Trump joins Amazon-owned Twitch | House to vote on bill to combat foreign interference Overnight Health Care — Presented by Coalition Against Surprise Medical Billing — Judge blocks Trump ‘public charge’ rule | Appeals court skeptical of Trump arguments for Medicaid work requirements | CDC offers guidance for treating vaping-related cases House to vote this month on legislation to combat foreign interference in elections MORE (D-Md.) wrote in a letter to colleagues that it is “possible” the House will vote on Speaker Nancy PelosiNancy PelosiTrump lashes out at 2020 Dems, impeachment inquiry In marathon testimony, Dems see an ambassador scorned, while GOP defends Trump Trump accuses Pelosi of ‘hating’ US over impeachment inquiry MORE‘s (D-Calif.) signature drug pricing bill the week of Oct. 28.

The committees of jurisdiction would mark up the legislation before then. 

The question: House leaders want to move quickly on the legislation, one of their top legislative priorities. One question is whether they can reach a deal for some changes to the bill with progressive House Democrats, who have objected that the measure does not go far enough. 

 

Appeals court upholds preliminary injunction against Ohio abortion ban 

A federal appeals court on Friday ruled Ohio cannot enforce a law that would block doctors from performing abortions if the mother is seeking one because of a down syndrome diagnosis.

A panel of the Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in a 2-1 decision upheld a preliminary injunction issued by a lower court last year blocking the state from enforcing the law. 

The state is expected to appeal the decision to the full court. 

Former Gov. John Kasich (R) signed the law in 2017 after the measure passed the state’s Republican-controlled legislature.  

Under the law, a doctor could face felony charges if they perform an abortion knowing the mother wants one because the fetus has, or might have, down syndrome. 

The court ruled Friday the law is likely unconstitutional and shouldn’t be enforced while legal challenges continue. 

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Some states have passed similar laws hoping to press the Supreme Court to revisit Roe v. Wade, the landmark ruling that established the right to an abortion. 

But the Supreme Court in May declined to hear an appeal of a similar law from Indiana. 

Supreme Court Justice Clarence ThomasClarence ThomasOvernight Health Care — Presented by Coalition Against Surprise Medical Billing — Judge blocks Trump ‘public charge’ rule | Appeals court skeptical of Trump arguments for Medicaid work requirements | CDC offers guidance for treating vaping-related cases Appeals court blocks Ohio Down syndrome abortion ban Supreme Court can prove its independence — or its partisan capture MORE dissented, writing that the law promoted the state’s “compelling interest in preventing abortion from becoming a tool of modern-day eugenics.” 

Ohio was also blocked this year from enforcing a separate “heartbeat” law that would ban abortions at about six weeks into pregnancy.  

Read more here.

 

 

 

What we’re reading

Trump’s smoke-and-mirrors 2020 health care strategy (Axios) 

Wasted health care spending in the U.S. tops annual defense budget, study finds (CBS)

A patient hopes gene-editing can help with pain of sickle cell disease (NPR)

Some patients with vaping-related lung injuries are being hospitalized a second time (The Washington Post)

 

State by state 

Colorado has a new plan to bring a “public option” of sorts to the state level (Vox.com)

John CornynJohn CornynOvernight Health Care — Presented by Coalition Against Surprise Medical Billing — Judge blocks Trump ‘public charge’ rule | Appeals court skeptical of Trump arguments for Medicaid work requirements | CDC offers guidance for treating vaping-related cases GOP requests update on criminal referrals prompted by 2018 Kavanaugh probe Bottom Line MORE garners both criticism and credit for wading into fractious debate over drug-pricing legislation (Dallas Morning News) 

California’s new transparency law reveals steep rise in wholesale drug prices (California Healthline)

Medicaid petition meets goal of 178,000 signatures, campaign says (The Oklahoman)