Amna Nawaz:
The U.S. State Department says it’s in touch with local authorities about the attack and is monitoring the situation.
A federal judge ruled that the Florida law restricting gender-affirming medical care is unconstitutional. The 2023 law blocked transgender minors from receiving treatment like puberty blockers and hormones. It also limited the options for transgender adults to be treated.
Senior Judge Robert Hinkle wrote: “Transgender opponents are not free to discriminate against transgender individuals just for being transgender.” Governor Ron DeSantis said his office will appeal the decision.
Johnson & Johnson has agreed to pay $700 million to settle an investigation by 42 states into its marketing of baby powder and other talc-based products. The deal resolves charges that the company told consumers the products were safe while knowing they had links to cancer.
In a statement, Colorado’s attorney general, who is among the plaintiffs, said — quote — “Today’s settlement sends a message that we will hold companies accountable for their deceptive and harmful conduct.” Johnson & Johnson did not admit to any wrongdoing.
And on Wall Street today, stocks ended mixed ahead of Wednesday’s inflation data and Federal Reserve meeting. The Dow Jones industrial average lost 120 points to close at 38747. The Nasdaq added 151 points to close at a new record. The S&P 500 also ended at an all-time high.
And a staple of the American summer is losing a key ingredient this year. Joey Chestnut will not be competing at the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4. The 16-time champion found himself at odds with event organizers over his decision to endorse the Impossible line of vegan meat products.
In a statement, Major League Eating said — quote — “We are devastated to learn that Joey Chestnut has chosen to represent a rival brand.” MLE also called Chestnut — quote — “an American hero” and said they would welcome him back if he drops his other endorsement deal.