Autism cases in the U.S. are on the rise, with new CDC data showing one in 31 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at age 8 in 2022, compared to one in 36 in 2020. Despite disparities in prevalence among racial groups, experts attribute the increase to better awareness and access to screening, debunking claims of an “autism epidemic.” (UPI)
President Trump expressed interest in sending “homegrown criminals” to foreign prisons, citing the example of El Salvador’s supermax prison. Despite constitutional questions and past Supreme Court rulings, Trump is exploring this controversial idea to remove criminals allowed in by the previous administration, citing concerns over public safety. (CBS News)
Starbucks is updating its dress code for employees, focusing on its iconic green aprons. The new policy, effective in May, requires a black shirt and khaki, black, or blue denim pants to highlight the apron. The company aims for a consistent experience across North American stores but faces criticism for prioritizing uniforms over employee well-being. (ABC News)
An Indiana mother faces charges for bringing a gun to her daughter’s school and threatening her lesbian teacher over an assignment involving same-sex relationships. Rivers was arrested for possession of a firearm on school property and harassment. She made threatening comments to the teacher and was found with the gun on campus. (NBC News)
The Trump administration is demanding an apology from Harvard University and has frozen $2.2 billion in grants, citing concerns about “antisemitism” on campus. They want Harvard to eliminate diversity programs, ban masks at protests, and ensure merit-based hiring. The administration is also considering taxing Harvard. (CNN)
