Episode Details

Fed raises interest rates for the first time in three years, gun rights groups take on state permit laws, CAIR blocks a Center Square reporter, and truckers get an emergency fuel-hauling waiver — all on this episode of The States.

Today's stories:

Fed Rate Hike: FOMC unanimously raises the federal funds rate a quarter point to 3.75%-4%. Economist Orphe Divounguy explains why it won't fix inflation (driven by energy/tariffs, not demand), and why consumers should expect elevated rates, 7% mortgages, and continued strain on lower-income borrowers.
License Plate Reader Pushback: Atlanta's mayor proposes new oversight after two officers are charged with misusing ALPR data; a Wisconsin lawmaker who once backed Flock camera funding now wants a ban after learning the company sells retained data to third parties; Chicago speed cameras issued a ticket every 48 seconds in 2025, netting $64.2M.
Second Amendment Legal Battles: Second Amendment Foundation's Bill Sack discusses Koons (NY's "sensitive places" carry restrictions) and Johnson v. Jacobson (interstate carry permit reciprocity), plus Washington state's new $126 permit-to-purchase requirement for gun buyers.
CAIR Blocks Reporter: The Center Square investigative reporter Mark Strickler was denied entry to CAIR's D.C. conference after the group was designated a terrorist organization by Texas and Florida governors; CAIR says it selectively grants press access.
America's Talking headlines: Trump declines to detail new Butler, PA assassination-attempt evidence, instead criticizing former FBI Director Christopher Wray; DOT extends daily driving limits for fuel truckers 90 days as gas hits $4.31/gal and diesel $6.29/gal; DocuSign co-founder backs repeal of WA's income tax; Florida first responders warn a property tax relief amendment could slow 911 response times.

Energy: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_a7dc38d8-847f-45cc-afb2-51817830bfd1.html 
Washington: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_ac446f29-4457-45be-9678-28591058f9d2.html
Florida: https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_7773739a-1e99-4210-a84c-ab47b4e025c6.html

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